url,title,date,year,month,party,chamber,state,member_name,bioguide_id,domain,scraper,source,date_source,text,has_text,collected_at,updated_at
https://www.lee.senate.gov/2026/9/mike-lee-introduces-the-direct-seller-and-real-estate-agent-harmonization-act,Mike Lee Introduces the Direct Seller and Real Estate Agent Harmonization Act,2026-09-30,2026,2026-09,Republican,Senate,UT,Mike Lee,L000577,www.lee.senate.gov,mikelee,https://www.lee.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) today introduced the Direct Seller and Real Estate Agent Harmonization Act, which clarifies Fair Labor Standards Act provisions to ensure that direct sellers and qualified real estate agents are recognized as independent contractors under federal law, aligning with the federal tax code and creating hiring dependability for companies and workers alike. The legislation is co-sponsored by Senator John Curtis (R-UT) and has been introduced in the House of Representatives by Rep. Kevin Kiley (R-CA).

“For decades, moms and dads have supported their families through direct selling and independent real estate businesses in Utah and across the country,” said Senator Lee. “Unfortunately, ambiguity in their federal classification has resulted in lawsuits that threaten entire industries and thousands of jobs. This legislation closes these loopholes and gives enterprising independent contractors clear legal status.”

“We thank Senator Mike Lee for engaging with the direct selling community and bringing this legislation before the Senate,” said Dave Grimaldi, CEO of the Direct Selling Association. “DSA represents people who choose to build businesses on their own terms. DSA's work is to bring their stories and experiences to Congress and make sure they have a voice in the laws that affect that choice, so no individual seller has to carry that responsibility alone.”

The Direct Seller and Real Estate Agent Harmonization Act

Amends the Fair Labor Standards Act to clarify that the term “employee” does not include any direct seller or qualified real estate agent (as defined in Section 3508(b) of the Internal Revenue Code).

Establish these workers as independent contractors—not by subjective interpretation but by statute—aligning federal law with federal tax code and creating hiring dependability for the companies and workers.

Builds upon Senator Lee’s 21st Century Worker Act, which simplifies employee classifications to cut red tape around hiring independent contractors and flexible work arrangements.

Read the bill text here.",1,2026-10-01T11:23:28Z,2026-10-01T11:25:15Z
https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-calls-for-investigation-into-presidential-families-business-dealings,Curtis Calls for Investigation into Presidential Families’ Business Dealings,2026-09-22,2026,2026-09,Republican,Senate,UT,John R. Curtis,C001114,www.curtis.senate.gov,curtis,https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Senator urges Judiciary Committee to examine use of presidential connections for private financial benefit

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator John Curtis (R-UT) sent a letter to Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Ranking Member Dick Durbin (D-IL) calling for an investigation into the use of presidential family relationships for private financial benefit, preferential treatment, or access by domestic and foreign interests.

As part of that investigation, the letter urges the Committee to subpoena Donald Trump Jr. and Hunter Biden to testify regarding their past business dealings, relationships with foreign individuals and entities, gifts or other benefits they have received, and any instances in which their relationship to the President was invoked or understood to provide value.

The full letter is available here and below:

Dear Chairman Grassley and Ranking Member Durbin:

Trust in our government institutions continues to fall to near historic lows. According to the Partnership for Public Service, only 27% of Americans have trust in the federal government, while 72% say it is “corrupt.” There are many reasons for this, but an important one is the perception that those with close proximity to political power are provided with opportunities, access, and treatment unavailable to ordinary Americans.

That concern should not depend on which party controls the White House.

For years, serious questions have been raised about members of presidential families using their names and proximity to the President to advance private business interests. The son of former President Joe Biden, Hunter Biden, conducted substantial business with foreign entities, including interests in China and Ukraine, while his father held or sought public office. Congressional testimony has produced conflicting accounts about the extent to which his father’s name, presence, or political stature played a role in those relationships. Hunter Biden has denied involving his father in his business dealings, but there is little question that President Biden’s decades in public office gave his son a degree of access, name recognition, and influence that materially enhanced his value in business dealings and opened doors that otherwise may have remained closed.

More recently, questions have arisen about the relationships of President Trump’s eldest son, Donald Trump Jr., with foreign business figures and the acceptance of significant gifts. These include a lavish wedding afterparty, on a private island, provided by Russian oligarch Umar Kremlev, who reportedly traveled to China as part of a delegation accompanying Vladimir Putin shortly before giving the gift.

These concerns are compounded by Donald Trump Jr.’s active promotion of family-backed cryptocurrency ventures, his continued pursuit of international real estate deals involving direct meetings with foreign heads of state, and his reported investments in defense contracting. This pattern extends to his significant financial and advisory ties to prediction market platforms that depend on favorable federal regulatory decisions being considered by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission.

These reports raise legitimate questions about foreign access to members of a sitting president’s family and whether such relationships can create actual or perceived expectations of favorable treatment. They also may create expectations of a returned favor that would not be in the best interests of the American people or our allies, and could even create national security vulnerabilities.

The country should not have to accept one standard for the family of a Republican president and another for the family of a Democratic president. Nor should congressional oversight begin and end when control of the White House changes hands.

I therefore respectfully request that the Senate Judiciary Committee launch an investigation into the use of presidential family relationships for private financial benefit, preferential treatment, or access by domestic and foreign interests. As part of that investigation, I urge the Committee to subpoena Donald Trump Jr. and Hunter Biden to testify regarding their past business dealings, relationships with foreign individuals and entities, gifts, or other benefits they have received, and any instances in which their relationship to the President was invoked or understood to provide value.

The purpose of such an inquiry should be straightforward: establish the facts, determine whether existing ethics, disclosure, or anti-corruption laws apply, and identify reforms necessary to prevent the presidency from becoming a vehicle for private enrichment by those closest to it.

Americans deserve confidence that public institutions serve them—not presidents, political parties, wealthy interests, or members of powerful families. Congress has an obligation to pursue credible concerns wherever they lead and without regard to party.

I appreciate your longstanding commitment to congressional oversight and respectfully ask the Committee to use its authorities to examine these matters thoroughly and transparently.",1,2026-09-23T09:45:16Z,2026-09-23T09:46:14Z
https://www.lee.senate.gov/2026/9/mike-lee-warren-davidson-urge-department-of-war-to-adopt-clear-standards-for-banned-substances,"Mike Lee, Warren Davidson Urge Department of War to Adopt Clear Standards for Banned Substances",2026-09-22,2026,2026-09,Republican,Senate,UT,Mike Lee,L000577,www.lee.senate.gov,mikelee,https://www.lee.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) and Representative Warren Davidson (R-OH) today authored a letter to Secretary of War Pete Hegseth and DoW General Counsel Earl Matthews urging the military to reform the broken system used to ban certain substances and supplements for use by servicemembers, which has resulted in disciplinary action against innocent men and women in uniform. They note that the ongoing legal review of Pentagon standards and processes ordered by Secretary Hegseth is a perfect opportunity to adopt the policies of their PERFECT Act, protecting good-faith servicemembers from a malfunctioning bureaucratic system.

******

Dear Secretary Hegseth and Mr. Matthews:

We write to support the Department of War’s (DoW) comprehensive review of legal support functions and operations,1 and to bring a relevant issue to the DoW’s attention. Many of our most motivated troops use health supplements to increase nutrient intake and muscle performance, using common off-the-shelf and name-brand supplements. Some of these supplements are even sold in retail facilities on military bases. Due to valid military readiness and health concerns, many of these commercially available supplements are prohibited for servicemembers. These substances are listed in a database called Operation Supplement Safety (OPSS).

Unfortunately, OPSS is an obscure, not-user-friendly tool that has caused much trouble for highly motivated servicemembers.3 Rather than providing a comprehensive list of prohibited ingredients and substances, it only features a search box where exact spelling of unfamiliar and complex names like “enclomiphene” or “dimethylamylamine” is necessary. If the servicemember searches the brand name, or messes up a single letter, the database will approve its use, even if it is banned. Moreover, OPSS is regularly updated as more products are added to the commercial market. The database currently includes over 800 prohibited substances and over 1700 synonyms.

For a servicemember to maintain full compliance while optimizing supplement intake, he or she would have to regularly enter every single ingredient into the database search one at a time— double- or triple-checking spelling—to make sure the list did not add an ingredient included in the supplements since the last check. Despite being otherwise upstanding servicemembers, many face discipline and separation when a supplement is added to the list without their knowledge.

Two things are true at once: first, servicemembers must be responsible for their actions and remain complaint with lawful DoW regulations. Second, DoW regulations must be reasonably implemented and promulgated. Judge Advocate General (JAG) officers are spending inordinate

amounts of time defending young recruits who unknowingly used prohibited—but legal and publicly available— substances. These cases are treated as drug abuse, even though the supplements are otherwise legal, non-intoxicating substances. Moreover, the DoW Instruction 1010.01 makes separation from service mandatory, leaving commanding officers with little discretion regardless of the circumstances.

We respectfully request that OPSS and DoW Instruction 1010.01 be included in DoW’s comprehensive review of legal operations and functions, and that DoW consider updating the process to ensure that upstanding and motivated servicemembers are properly educated and not needlessly separated from service.

That is why we proposed the PERFECT Act, a framework that can guide DoW’s review. Rather than using an obscure search-only database, DoW can publish the full list of prohibited substances every 90 days, noting new additions to the list. This helps keep servicemembers educated. We also recommend that commanding officers be given explicit discretion to not subject servicemembers to discipline or separation, provided that (1) the offense was the first such offense by the servicemember, (2) that the commanding officer determines that the servicemember was acting in good faith, and (3) that the servicemember agrees to participate in education, counseling, or drug testing. This should not apply to servicemembers found to be in possession of dangerous, intoxicating, or illicit drugs appearing in the Controlled Substances Act. Updates like these can simultaneously help achieve DoW’s recruitment and retention goals while empowering servicemembers to take only those health supplements that support military readiness.

Thank you for your consideration of this request and for your work to ensure the health, safety, and readiness of our military and its servicemembers. Please do not hesitate to reach out if we can be helpful.",1,2026-09-23T09:45:16Z,2026-09-23T09:46:14Z
https://blakemoore.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-blake-moores-bill-to-improve-congressional-access-to-economic-data-passes-committee,Congressman Blake Moore's Bill to Improve Congressional Access to Economic Data Passes Committee,2026-09-17,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,UT,Blake D. Moore,M001213,blakemoore.house.gov,blakemoore,https://blakemoore.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — Congressman Blake Moore’s legislation to improve congressional access to economic data unanimously passed the House Budget Committee.

The Increasing Baseline Updates Act will require the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) to produce at least two baseline updates each year, including one update with economic data. This will ensure Congress has the most up-to-date information on relevant budget and economic figures to inform the appropriations process and other legislation.

""Americans have made it abundantly clear that they support efforts to rein in wasteful federal spending and lower our crippling national debt,” Congressman Moore said. “The Increasing Baseline Updates Act will help this critical initiative by enhancing Congress’s ability to make informed decisions during the budgeting process with more consistently updated data from the Congressional Budget Office. I’m grateful to see it pass out of committee today.""

“We can’t get our fiscal house in order, responsibly steward taxpayers’ treasure, and address our national debt without fixing our broken budget process, which is exactly what Rep. Blake Moore’s legislative reform will help us achieve,” House Budget Chairman Jodey Arrington said.

Background:

Under the Congressional Budget and Impoundment Control Act of 1974, CBO is required to publish its baseline before February 15th of each year. The baseline is a projection of federal outlays and revenues under current and future fiscal years according to existing law. Despite the requirement for an annual baseline, there is no statutory obligation for CBO to provide a specific number of baseline updates, which are critical to ongoing policymaking in Congress. The last time CBO published a baseline update after July was 2020. This is problematic considering Congress’s tendency to pass government funding bills at the end of the calendar year. Additionally, the last time CBO published three baselines in a year was 2019. This leaves lawmakers relying on outdated information on the fiscal state of our nation. The Increasing Baseline Updates Act is an important step toward improving our budget process and returning to regular order.

You can read the full bill here.

###",1,2026-09-18T09:27:43Z,2026-09-18T09:29:09Z
https://mikekennedy.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-kennedy-passes-eighth-bill-more-any-utah-first-term-congressman-history,"Rep. Kennedy passes eighth bill, more than any Utah first term Congressman in history",2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,UT,Mike Kennedy,K000403,mikekennedy.house.gov,mikekennedy,https://mikekennedy.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — This week, Congressman Mike Kennedy (UT-03) moved his eighth bill through the U.S. House of Representatives, more than any first term congressman from Utah in history and among the strongest records in the 119th Congress.

The bill, H.R. 8658, the Indian Health Services Emergency Claims Parity Act, gives American Indian and Alaska Native patients a fair window to handle paperwork after a medical emergency by extending the Purchased/Referred Care (PRC) notification deadline from 72 hours to 15 days.

Congressman Kennedy has introduced 36 bills this Congress and moved eight through the House, alongside additional priorities secured through larger legislative packages.

“I came to Congress to be a workhorse, not a show pony,” said Congressman Mike Kennedy. “Washington frequently rewards noise over results. My focus has been to find practical, structural fixes to issues, do the quiet and necessary legislative legwork, and deliver tangible outcomes for the people of Utah. You don’t move bills through the House without building genuine support and keeping the priorities of your district at the forefront.”

Some Key Bills passed by Rep. Kennedy:

Geothermal Royalty Reform Act: to drive growth in the geothermal energy sector by modernizing outdated regulations.

Utah Wildfire Research Institutes Act: establishes a federal wildfire research institute at Utah State University to develop and sustain fire-resilient forests.

License to Drill Act: to ensure that American energy projects don’t sit waiting on needless bureaucracy.

U.S. Research Protection Act: to close loopholes that let adversarial nations exploit American research.

Kennedy's bills now await action in the Senate, and several are already moving. The License to Drill Act cleared the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee without amendment in July and awaits a floor vote. Kennedy has had productive conversations with Senate colleagues and is hopeful more of his legislation reaches the President's desk before the 119th Congress adjourns.

###",1,2026-09-17T09:52:05Z,2026-09-17T09:53:00Z
https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-blunt-rochester-call-for-ai-hearings-regulation,"Curtis, Blunt Rochester Call for AI Hearings, Regulation",2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Republican,Senate,UT,John R. Curtis,C001114,www.curtis.senate.gov,curtis,https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Bipartisan members of the Senate Commerce Committee issue joint statement on artificial intelligence (AI)

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT) and Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), members of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, issued the following joint statement calling for swift public congressional hearings to inform lawmakers on potential AI regulatory solutions:

“Americans deserve representation in Congress that is not only well-informed on cutting-edge AI development, but also has the wherewithal to cross the aisle and overcome political pressures to address the concerns these technologies pose.

“That is why we are calling for immediate public hearings to bring lawmakers, model makers, and other stakeholders into the same room and work through solutions that maintain America’s competitive edge in development while ensuring that these technologies serve human interests and remain fully under human control. In the meantime, Congress must ensure necessary safeguards are in place.

“At the end of the day, technology must be wholly designed to improve our lives, further opportunities for rising generations, and let the human spirit prevail. With no clear partisan divide on this issue, there is an opportunity to prove that Congress is functional, cooperative, and that it can deliver on what is becoming the hallmark issue of our time.”",1,2026-09-17T09:52:05Z,2026-09-17T09:53:00Z
https://www.lee.senate.gov/2026/9/lee-miller-fight-for-student-privacy-with-student-voter-data-protection-act,"Lee, Miller Fight for Student Privacy with Student Voter Data Protection Act",2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Republican,Senate,UT,Mike Lee,L000577,www.lee.senate.gov,mikelee,https://www.lee.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) and Representative Mary Miller (R-IL) introduced the Student Voter Data Protection Act, a bill to safeguard the personal data of college students from being exploited for partisan voter registration efforts. This legislation amends the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) to explicitly prohibit students' private information from being shared without their consent for voter registration drives, additionally banning federal funds from postsecondary education institutions that engage in these practices.

In recent years, colleges and universities nationwide have participated in the National Study of Learning, Voting, and Engagement (NSLVE), which compels institutions to hand over students' FERPA-protected data. This data is then shared through the National Student Clearinghouse (NSC) with third-party voter processing companies. Without student consent, these companies match student information with voter databases.

""Partisan organizations should not have access to college students' personal data under the guise of civic engagement,"" said Senator Lee. ""Our bill closes the loopholes that allow institutions to disregard the consent of their students. If leftist groups want a student’s info for electioneering, they can do it the old-fashioned way: standing on campus with a clipboard.""

""The Student Voter Data Protection Act puts a hard stop to Left-wing data harvesting, making student data strictly opt-in and cutting off the pipeline to non-consensual personal information,” said Rep. Miller. “I am proud to lead this effort in the House alongside Senator Mike Lee to stand up for our students' basic privacy rights.""

The Student Voter Data Protection Act would amend FERPA to ensure that universities cannot share students' personally identifiable information for voter registration activities unless the student gives explicit consent. The legislation responds to ongoing concerns that organizations like Civic Nation, an affiliate of the Obama Foundation, are using this data to target student voters with left-leaning get-out-the-vote efforts.

Key Provisions of the Bill:

Amends FERPA to explicitly prevent universities from sharing student data without consent for voter registration purposes.

Ensures that voter registration efforts do not exploit students' private information for partisan gain.

Protects college students from being targeted based on their voting history or registration status.

The introduction of the Student Voter Data Protection Act follows concerns that the NSLVE initiative has been used to create a voter profile of students, often without their knowledge or consent, to fuel politically motivated campaigns. By tightening FERPA protections, the Student Voter Data Protection Act seeks to preserve the integrity of student privacy and ensure that educational institutions adhere to federal privacy laws.

###

You can read the bill text here.",1,2026-09-17T09:52:05Z,2026-09-17T09:53:00Z
https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-wildfire-emissions-prevention-bill-unanimously-passes-committee,Curtis Wildfire Emissions Prevention Bill Unanimously Passes Committee,2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Republican,Senate,UT,John R. Curtis,C001114,www.curtis.senate.gov,curtis,https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Bipartisan legislation to remove regulatory burden on proactive forest management unanimously passes Senate EPW Committee

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator John Curtis (R-UT) today applauded the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee’s unanimous passage of the Wildfire Emissions Prevention Act (WEPA), bipartisan legislation to streamline states’ use of prescribed fires to prevent wildfire emissions, protect ecosystems and wildlife habitats, and make American forests and communities safer, healthier, and cleaner. The bill—led by Senator Curtis—is cosponsored by EPW Chair Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) and Senators Jeff Merkley (D-OR), John Boozman (R-AR), Alex Padilla (D-CA), and Mark Kelly (D-AZ).

“Today’s unanimous approval by the Committee brings us one step closer to addressing the glaring irony in our current environmental regulations: They deter prescribed burns due to pollution concerns, practically guaranteeing catastrophic wildfires that emit far more carbon than proactive management ever would,” said Senator Curtis. “I thank my colleagues for their work and support and look forward to the bill’s passage by the full Senate.”

“The unanimous passage of the WEPA through the EPW Committee represents a key step toward implementing common-sense solutions that will help states more effectively prevent wildfires and protect their land and communities. I am grateful to Senator Curtis and Senator Merkley for their leadership on this bill, and I look forward to supporting its passage through the full Senate,” said Chair Capito.

“As climate chaos fuels longer, hotter, and more dangerous wildfire seasons, our communities need to have all the necessary resources to mitigate wildfire threats. Prescribed fire and cultural burning on the landscape are one such tool by reducing hazardous fuels,” said Senator Merkley. “This bipartisan bill would streamline the use of prescribed burns and establish the Smoke Ready Communities Program, which is based on provisions from my Smoke and Heat Ready Communities Act. As our Wildfire Emissions Prevention Actmoves closer to becoming law, we are on the way to supporting more prescribed fire on the landscape—an essential forest management activity—while giving our communities the resources to plan and prepare for smoke events, protecting public health and saving lives.”

“Empowering states to proactively manage forests will reduce the frequency and devastation that wildfires increasingly inflict on communities. I am pleased the EPW Committee reached strong, bipartisan consensus around this commonsense solution and appreciate Sen. Curtis’ leadership on this critical issue,” said Senator Boozman.

“Year after year, increasingly devastating wildfires ravage our public lands and communities, so it’s critical we act with urgency,” said Senator Padilla. “Today’s unanimous Committee vote to advance WEPA will allow more prescribed fire to be deployed on the landscape and help prevent or mitigate wildfires. I am proud to see our bill advance as we work to be proactive in responding to the wildfire crisis instead of waiting to respond after disaster strikes.”

“In Arizona, we know just how catastrophic wildfires can be. One of the best tools we have to reduce wildfire risk and the damage it wreaks is prescribed fires. But right now, federal air quality rules can make it harder for states to use prescribed fire proactively,” said Senator Kelly. “The WEPA gives states greater certainty that they won’t be penalized under the Clean Air Act for responsibly using prescribed burns to reduce the risk of a much larger and more destructive wildfires. This is a commonsense change that will help us keep our communities safe and our forests healthy.”

Senator Curtis’ remarks at the markup can be viewed here, and transcript is below:

“I’m very pleased that the Committee is advancing the Wildfire Emissions Prevention Act today. In Utah and across the West, wildfire season is increasingly becoming a year-round challenge.

“This year, we have had an astonishing half-million acres burned. These fires are also followed by devastating floods, making this even worse.

“I’ve had a chance to sit with the Forest Service, and they will show me where they have proactively done the prescribed burns, and clearly they’re able to contain the fire within these areas, and where they can’t contain it is where it escapes these prescribed burns. And of course, this bill gives them better tools.

“We’ve sadly penalized states because of the emissions that these prescribed burns cause. And that’s not the intention, because doing prescribed burns actually can dramatically reduce emissions. And so, I’m thankful for the Committee’s support. And I want to point out we’re not looking for a loophole on emissions reporting. And this is the perfect scenario of “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.

“We should not be penalizing states for taking responsible steps to reduce wildfires, protect communities, and improve air. I’m grateful for the cosponsors of this bill, and I look forward to getting this across the finish line.”

Background:

Utah fire seasons typically begin in July and end in October. To date, Utah has experienced over 1,183 total wildfires with more than 560,478 acres burned and many still out of control.

While topography and natural weather conditions like a historic drought and an increasingly arid, hot climate contribute to an increase in the number of fires and their intensity, land managers can effectively influence fire behavior through proactive measures like prescribed burns. This reduces the amount of hazardous fuels, the dry vegetation that catches fire easily—helping protect forests, properties, and communities along the wildland-urban interface.

Implementing these measures has become increasingly burdensome, with environmental reviews for even the smallest projects taking up to four years. Moreover, land managers can be deterred from prescribed burns due to existing environmental penalties. Yet, avoiding these controlled burns practically guarantees catastrophic wildfires that emit far more carbon than proactive management ever would. Senator Curtis has remained vocal on this issue, responding to a recent Wall Street Journal editorial highlighting the bill and his other efforts to address wildfires. Read the piece here.

The Wildfire Emissions Prevention Act would:

Make it easier for states and communities to use prescribed fire to prevent wildfire emissions;

Protect ecosystems and wildlife habitat;

Provide certainty that states won’t be penalized for taking action to prevent wildfires;

Promote the efficient use of state air quality resources; and

Make our forests and communities safer, healthier, and cleaner.

A one-pager on the bill is available here, and the full bill text is available here.",1,2026-09-18T09:27:43Z,2026-09-18T09:29:09Z
https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-joins-tillis-armstrong-on-delegation-to-ukraine,"Curtis Joins Tillis, Armstrong on Delegation to Ukraine",2026-09-15,2026,2026-09,Republican,Senate,UT,John R. Curtis,C001114,www.curtis.senate.gov,curtis,https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Senators affirmed support for Ukraine, assessed security conditions and defense capabilities amid continued Russian aggression

KYIV, UKRAINE—U.S. Senator John Curtis (R-UT), member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, joined a Republican congressional delegation with Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Alan Armstrong (R-OK) to Ukraine to affirm American support for the Ukrainian people and assess the security situation amid Russia’s continued war of aggression. The trip marks the first time since the start of the invasion that a congressional delegation visited Kharkiv, a heavily fortified frontline city just miles from the Russian border.

While in Kyiv, the delegation met with U.S. and Ukrainian officials and key stakeholders to receive updates on the war, negotiations, and Ukraine’s rapidly developing defense technologies. Before going to Ukraine, the delegation was joined by Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) in Poland.

Photos from the visit can be downloaded here.

Senator Curtis shared the following comments on his experience:

On Ukraine’s military capabilities:

“Ukraine has gone from a fragment of the Soviet Union to a global symbol of freedom and democracy in the face of authoritarianism. The Ukrainian people are fighting for their sovereignty, but they are also defending values Americans cherish: free speech, free markets, and free people.

“While in Ukraine, we witnessed an extremely capable military on the forefront of innovation in the UAS and counter-UAS space. It was particularly helpful to see how Ukraine is providing these capabilities across Europe and the Middle East.”

On the future of U.S. support for Ukraine:

“It is clear that Putin intends to make the coming winter hard for Ukraine. He will not succeed. The Ukrainians provided us with concrete asks to help them get through the winter, including House passage and the full enactment of the Lindsey Graham Russia Sanctions Act. It’s important to note that the requests made by the Ukrainians require no U.S. taxpayer dollars nor further aid packages. My colleagues and I plan to execute on these requests and get Ukraine the support it needs.”

On what’s at stake:

“A Russian victory threatens more than just Europe. Like Russia, China carries territorial ambitions. There’s no question they’re eyeing Taiwan and seeking to set the stage for an invasion, which is why what happens in Ukraine is directly tied to Taiwan and stability in the Indo-Pacific. President Xi is carefully watching our response to Russia’s war, inferring our posture would be similar to how we would respond if China were to invade Taiwan. If China invades Taiwan, global upheaval will follow, and we would see our economy hit harder in the initial onset than the Great Depression.”

On the lived experience of Ukrainians:

“This delegation made clear that the debate in Washington is about much more than lines on a map. We met Ukrainians defending their families and communities and saw the extraordinary lengths civilians are going to return to normality. Their courage and determination are an inspiration to freedom-loving people everywhere. We refuse to let this be a blueprint for future authoritarian regimes’ aggression.”

Background:

During the visit, the delegation received on-the-ground assessments of the security situation in Poland and Ukraine, updates on the war, NATO, and ongoing peace negotiations. Members also examined developments in unmanned aerial vehicle and counter-UAV systems, areas where Ukraine has developed significant battlefield expertise.

In Poland, Curtis praised the country’s leadership within NATO, including its commitment to spending 5 percent of its GDP on defense and its critical role as a logistical hub supporting Ukraine. Curtis emphasized that continued coordination between the United States, Poland, and other NATO allies is essential to deterring further Russian aggression and maintaining security along NATO’s Eastern Front.

Russia’s continued war in Ukraine has highlighted the many broader implications for U.S. national security and global stability. In his role on the Foreign Relations Committee, Senator Curtis has remained vocal, warning that Vladimir Putin’s ambitions extend beyond Ukraine and that a strong, unified NATO posture is necessary to deter further aggression in Europe.",1,2026-09-19T09:11:33Z,2026-09-19T09:12:45Z
https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/opinion-thank-capitalism-and-free-markets-for-human-flourishing,Opinion: Thank Capitalism and Free Markets for Human Flourishing,2026-09-14,2026,2026-09,Republican,Senate,UT,John R. Curtis,C001114,www.curtis.senate.gov,curtis,https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"America should not abandon the economic system that has lifted billions from poverty and driven unprecedented human progress

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator John Curtis (R-UT) authored an opinion piece in The Washington Post highlighting the extraordinary gains in prosperity, health, and quality of life made possible by capitalism and free enterprise.

“To what do we owe this phenomenal progress? Capitalism. It’s the only system in which individuals have the freedom to own their land, homes and businesses—and to be paid for their talent, labor and innovation,” Senator Curtis wrote. “Just one century into America’s experiment in capitalist free enterprise, Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels—capitalism’s most prominent critics—could not help but admit that the system had driven more productivity ‘than have all preceding generations together.’ There is a clear link between economic freedom and standards of living, financial resources and personal health.”

“Free enterprise made America a ‘shining city on a hill’—a heritage the country will surely lose if it abandons its zeal for the only economic system capable of making upward mobility and prosperity possible for all,” Senator Curtis continued.

In the piece, Senator Curtis points to dramatic improvements in human well-being over the past several decades. More than one billion people were lifted out of extreme poverty between 1990 and 2015, while global child mortality has fallen 60 percent since 1990. In the United States, inflation-adjusted household income increased from roughly $59,000 in 1970 to nearly $84,000 in 2024.

Senator Curtis also reflects on his own experience in Taiwan, where he first lived as a missionary in 1979 and returned earlier this year as the co-lead of a Congressional delegation. He argues that Taiwan’s transformation from a poor, agrarian society into an economic powerhouse demonstrates the ability of market-oriented capitalism to improve lives and create opportunity.

Amid recent electoral victories by members of the Democratic Socialists of America, Curtis argues that leaders have a responsibility to better explain why free enterprise has been such a powerful force for technological, economic, and medical advancement, and why preserving economic freedom is essential to expanding opportunity for future generations.

“The oxcart had a good run,” Senator Curtis concluded. “America should not hitch itself back onto it.”",1,2026-09-15T09:50:21Z,2026-09-15T09:52:05Z
https://blakemoore.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-blake-moore-joins-president-trump-at-national-medal-of-honor-monument-bill-signing,Congressman Blake Moore Joins President Trump at National Medal of Honor Monument Bill Signing,2026-09-10,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,UT,Blake D. Moore,M001213,blakemoore.house.gov,blakemoore,https://blakemoore.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"ARLINGTON, TX — Today, Congressman Blake Moore joined President Trump as he signed into law the Hershel “Woody” Williams National Medal of Honor Monument Location Act.

Introduced by Congressman Blake Moore (R-UT) and Congressman Marc Veasey (D-TX), this legislation is the final legislative step in establishing a location for a monument recognizing America’s Medal of Honor recipients on the National Mall. This legislation is named after Woody Williams, the last WWII Medal of Honor recipient to pass away.

“It was a privilege to stand with President Trump at the Medal of Honor Museum as he signed into law my bill to enact a Medal of Honor Monument on the National Mall,"" Congressman Moore said. ""This effort was among my first when I came to Congress, and to watch this legislation successfully cross the finish line was very special. I look forward to bringing my boys to the monument one day to reflect on the sacrifices of those who valiantly fought for our freedoms. Thank you, President Trump, for believing in this initiative and honoring our heroes.”

""I'm thrilled to be here at the National Medal of Honor Museum. It's an American treasure devoted to the best and bravest warriors of our country. Those honored in this museum did more than answer the call, they stormed into hellfire and crushed America's enemies. They had bravery like few people could even think of having. With this museum and a new monument in Washington, D.C., America will never ever forget what they did and what they risked,” President Trump said during his remarks.

""America’s war heroes, who fought bravely and with distinction, should have a prominent monument on the National Mall alongside other great Americans,"" House Committee on Natural Resources Chairman Bruce Westerman (R-AR) said. ""I look forward to working with the administration to place this monument near the Lincoln Memorial, a fitting continuation of Lincoln’s legacy as the first President to present the Medal of Honor on behalf of Congress during the height of the Civil War. I’m grateful to be at the National Medal of Honor Museum in Dallas with President Trump as he signs this historic legislation into law, and I thank Representative Moore and Senator Justice for leading the Hershel ‘Woody' Williams National Medal of Honor Monument Location Act.""

During the 117th Congress, Congressmen Moore and Veasey successfully led the bipartisan National Medal of Honor Monument Act through the legislative process to authorize the creation of a new monument in Washington, D.C., to honor Medal of Honor recipients. The bill was signed by President Biden in December of 2021. The Hershel “Woody” Williams National Medal of Honor Monument Location Act is the next and final legislative step in establishing a location for the monument on the National Mall.

Background

Hershel “Woody” Williams was born in West Virginia in 1923. He enlisted in the Marines in 1943 and was in the Pacific Theater within less than 90 days. On February 21, 1945, then Corporal Williams landed on the beach at Iwo Jima, where he distinguished himself by repeatedly risking himself to enemy fire and bayonet charges over several hours, while single-handedly destroying enemy pillboxes, or concrete trenches, to make way for American tanks and infantry. His gallant actions took place on the same day as the famous flag raising on Mount Suribachi, which he witnessed from 1,000 yards away.

After returning home, President Harry Truman awarded Corporal Hershel Williams the Medal of Honor—our nation’s highest recognition for valor in combat—for his “aggressive fighting spirit and valiant devotion to duty throughout this fiercely contested action, [sustaining] and [enhancing] the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.” Following his distinguished Marine career, Williams continued to serve others in many capacities. He lay in state in the U.S. Capitol Rotunda in the summer of 2022 as the last World War II Medal of Honor recipient to pass away.

The Medal of Honor is the United States' highest award for military valor in action. An estimated 40 million individuals have served in the United States Armed Forces since the Civil War. Fewer than 4,000 have been awarded the Medal of Honor. President Abraham Lincoln awarded the first Medals of Honor more than 160 years ago on March 25, 1863, forever tying the Medal to his lasting and living legacy. In 1991, President George H.W. Bush further extended this legacy by establishing March 25 as National Medal of Honor Day.",1,2026-09-11T09:25:29Z,2026-09-11T09:27:08Z
https://blakemoore.house.gov/media/press-releases/representatives-moore-shreves-protecting-domestic-mining-act-passes-the-house,"Representatives Moore, Shreve's Protecting Domestic Mining Act Passes the House",2026-09-04,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,UT,Blake D. Moore,M001213,blakemoore.house.gov,blakemoore,https://blakemoore.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Protecting Domestic Mining Act passed the House of Representatives. Introduced by Congressman Blake Moore (R-UT) and Congressman Jefferson Shreve (R-IN), this legislation boosts domestic mining and mineral processing capacity by expediting environmental review of mining infrastructure projects under the FAST-41 process. Congressman Moore spoke on the House floor prior to its passage, and his remarks can be viewed HERE.

“I’m thrilled to see the Protecting Domestic Mining Act, which I introduced with Rep. Shreve, pass the House,"" Rep. Moore said. ""Mining plays a critical role in our national security, and this bill is an important step towards a more streamlined and coordinated approval process for new mines. In Utah alone, mining contributes over $5 billion to our state GDP annually. As demand for hardrock minerals continues to grow, we should be producing more resources here, with American workers, rather than relying on foreign adversaries. I urge my colleagues in the Senate to pass this bill so that we can increase domestic mineral production and make government work better for our miners.”

""America has the resources. We have the workers. What we don’t need is years of government red tape standing in the way. My bill brings critical mineral production back home, strengthens American manufacturing, and reduces our dependence on China,” Rep. Shreve said. “More American mining means more American jobs, stronger American manufacturing, and a supply chain we can count on.”

“It’s critical for the United States to achieve mineral dominance and end reliance on foreign adversarial nations for critical natural resources. The Protecting Domestic Mining Act will speed up permitting for mining and processing, allowing America to unleash its domestic mineral abundance, support good-paying jobs and decrease reliance on foreign sources. I thank Representatives Shreve and Moore for their work on advancing policies to secure America’s mineral supply chains,” House Committee on Natural Resources Chairman Bruce Westerman (R-AR) said.

""By codifying into law what has already been a great success for American jobs, national security and supply chain independence, the Protecting Domestic Mining Act of 2025 (H.R. 1501) will bring increased transparency, accountability and predictability in the permitting review process, reaffirming mining as a covered project under the Federal Permitting Improvement Steering Council’s (FPISC) permitting dashboard,"" said Rich Nolan, President and CEO of the National Mining Association. ""By streamlining the permitting process and establishing greater coordination and cooperation between regulatory agencies, we can bring domestic mining operations online more efficiently and help America unlock its true potential. We congratulate Representatives Shreve (R-Ind.) and Moore (R-Utah) on passage of H.R. 1501 and encourage the Senate to quickly take-up and pass this important legislation. The bill will help to ensure that made in America truly means mined in America.""

""Strengthening America’s mineral supply chains is critical to our national and energy security, and will require both greater domestic production and a permitting process that can move projects forward efficiently,” said James Dozier, President and CEO of Citizens for Responsible Energy Solutions. ""The Protecting Domestic Mining Act would help achieve both by expanding access to the FAST-41 program and giving critical mineral projects a clearer path toward expedited review. CRES is proud to support this important legislation and efforts to strengthen access to critical minerals vital for advanced, domestic, and cleaner energy production.""

The Protecting Domestic Mining Act codifies mining and mineral processing as covered projects under the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation (FAST) Act. The bill also prohibits implementation of a Biden-era proposed rule that would narrow FAST-41 coverage for mining projects to only critical-mineral mining projects, severely impeding domestic mineral investment and American resource independence.

Background

Cars, appliances, cell phones, medical equipment, military defense, power grids, and manufacturing all depend on minerals like copper, lithium, and rare earth elements. The United States has these resources, but government delays keep American mines and processing facilities tied up in red tape for years.

That means American manufacturers are often forced to buy these critical materials from China. This bill puts mining and mineral processing projects on a clearer federal permitting timeline, helping get American mines and processing facilities up and running faster.

The United States has some of the world’s richest deposits of critical minerals, yet permitting a new mine can take many years. This legislation ensures mining and mineral processing projects can benefit from existing federal permitting reforms designed to prevent unnecessary delays.

Supporting organizations include: American Exploration and Mining Association, Americans for Prosperity, Citizens for Responsible Energy Solutions, Essential Minerals Association, National Association of Manufacturers, National Federation of Independent Business, National Mining Association, and National Stone, Sand and Gravel Association.

The Protecting Domestic Mining Act of 2025 now heads to the Senate for consideration.

Read the full bill here.

###",1,2026-09-05T08:49:07Z,2026-09-05T08:50:44Z
https://mikekennedy.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-mike-kennedy-introduces-bill-ban-sale-data-obtained-smart-meters,Congressman Mike Kennedy introduces bill to ban the sale of data obtained by smart meters,2026-09-04,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,UT,Mike Kennedy,K000403,mikekennedy.house.gov,mikekennedy,https://mikekennedy.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC —Today, Representative Mike Kennedy (UT-03), and Representative Josh Riley (NY-19) introduced the Smart Meter Data Privacy Protection Act, bipartisan legislation to ban utility companies from selling Americans private data and crack down on the misuse of personal information collected through smart meters

These meters do far more than track energy use: they capture detailed, real-time information on household energy patterns, daily routines and habits.

The Smart Meter Data Privacy Protection Act mandates that utilities can only use customers' energy-usage data for core functions like billing, grid reliability, outages, and regulatory compliance. The legislation also prevents utility companies from selling or sharing customer data.

""We must be certain to protect Americans' personal privacy. Smart meters can reveal families' daily routines in granular detail, but no one should have to surrender their personal data just to keep the lights on,"" said Congressman Kennedy. ""I am proud to join Rep. Josh Riley in this effort to protect Americans' right to privacy and make clear that their personal data should not be a commodity.""

The bill also requires utilities to provide an annual report to the Federal Trade Commission explaining what data was collected, how it was used, and who it was shared with. Under this legislation, if a utility improperly profits from a customer’s data, it must pay that customer back through bill credits three times the revenue it earned from the misuse. This bill also empowers states to take action against utilities that violate these privacy protections.

“Nobody asked for smart meters. The utilities rolled them out anyway, and if you didn’t want one, they charged you extra just to opt out,” said Congressman Riley. “Now they’re raking in millions selling all the data the smart meters collect — when you turn the lights on, when you cook dinner, when you take a shower, even when you shut the TV off at night. Upstate New Yorkers are already paying the foreign-owned utility monopolies too damn much. They shouldn’t get to cash in on our private information, too.”

You can read the text of the Smart Meter Data Privacy Protection Act HERE.

###",1,2026-09-05T08:49:07Z,2026-09-05T08:50:44Z
https://blakemoore.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-blake-moores-community-project-funding-request-successfully-receives-625000-from-the-us-department-of-commerce,"Congressman Blake Moore’s Community Project Funding Request Successfully Receives $625,000 from the U.S. Department of Commerce",2026-09-01,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,UT,Blake D. Moore,M001213,blakemoore.house.gov,blakemoore,https://blakemoore.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Blake Moore is pleased to announce that the University of Utah is receiving $625,000 from the U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Institute of Standards and Technology to support the Utah Network for Integrated Computing and Semiconductor Research and Education. Congressman Moore successfully advocated for and secured this award as a Fiscal Year 2026 Community Funding Project.

“The University of Utah does phenomenal work educating and training engineers, and this funding will enhance their ability to build a skilled domestic semiconductor workforce,” Congressman Blake Moore said. “Semiconductor manufacturing is essential to both economic growth and national security, and I am thrilled to have partnered with the U to pursue this funding opportunity.”",1,2026-09-02T09:19:58Z,2026-09-02T09:20:51Z
https://blakemoore.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-blake-moores-hershel-woody-williams-national-medal-of-honor-monument-location-act-passes-the-house,Congressman Blake Moore’s Hershel “Woody” Williams National Medal of Honor Monument Location Act Passes the House,2026-09-01,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,UT,Blake D. Moore,M001213,blakemoore.house.gov,blakemoore,https://blakemoore.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, the Hershel “Woody” Williams National Medal of Honor Monument Location Act passed the House of Representatives. Introduced by Congressman Blake Moore (R-UT) and Congressman Marc Veasey (D-TX), this legislation is the final legislative step in establishing a location for a monument recognizing America’s Medal of Honor recipients on the National Mall. This legislation is named after Woody Williams, the last WWII Medal of Honor recipient to pass away. Congressman Moore spoke on the House floor prior to its passage, and his remarks can be viewed HERE.

“As America celebrates our 250th year, it’s only fitting that we recognize the sacrifices made that allow us the freedom we have today,” Congressman Blake Moore said. “Over 40 million Americans have served in the U.S. Armed Forces since the Civil War, but fewer than 4,000 have been awarded the Medal of Honor. This award not only commemorates the bravery of those who earn it, but it also honors their humanity, patriotism, and sacrifice for the United States and its people. This legislation is the next and final step to giving our heroes and their families the commemoration they deserve by allowing a monument to be placed on the National Mall in Washington, DC. I am thrilled that my bill has passed the House today and look forward to the President’s signature.”

During the 117th Congress, Congressmen Moore and Veasey successfully led the bipartisan National Medal of Honor Monument Act through the legislative process to authorize the creation of a new monument in Washington, D.C., to honor Medal of Honor recipients. The bill was signed by President Biden in December of 2021. The Hershel “Woody” Williams National Medal of Honor Monument Location Act is the next and final legislative step in establishing a location for the monument on the National Mall.

Background

Hershel “Woody” Williams was born in West Virginia in 1923. He enlisted in the Marines in 1943 and was in the Pacific Theater within less than 90 days. On February 21, 1945, then Corporal Williams landed on the beach at Iwo Jima, where he distinguished himself by repeatedly risking himself to enemy fire and bayonet charges over several hours, while singlehandedly destroying enemy pillboxes, or concrete trenches, to make way for American tanks and infantry. His gallant actions took place on the same day as the famous flag raising on Mount Suribachi, which he witnessed from 1,000 yards away.

After returning home, President Harry Truman awarded Corporal Hershel Williams the Medal of Honor—our nation’s highest recognition for valor in combat—for his “aggressive fighting spirit and valiant devotion to duty throughout this fiercely contested action, [sustaining] and [enhancing] the highest traditions of the United States Naval Service.” Following his distinguished Marine career, Williams continued to serve others in many capacities. He lay in state in the U.S. Capitol Rotunda in the summer of 2022 as the last World War II Medal of Honor recipient to pass away.

The Medal of Honor is the United States' highest award for military valor in action. An estimated 40 million individuals have served in the United States Armed Forces since the Civil War. Fewer than 4,000 have been awarded the Medal of Honor. President Abraham Lincoln awarded the first Medals of Honor more than 160 years ago on March 25, 1863, forever tying the Medal to his lasting and living legacy. In 1991, President George H.W. Bush further extended this legacy by establishing March 25 as National Medal of Honor Day.

Read the full bill here.

###",1,2026-09-02T09:19:58Z,2026-09-02T09:20:51Z
https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-cosponsors-national-park-week-resolution,Curtis Cosponsors National Park Week Resolution,2026-08-25,2026,2026-08,Republican,Senate,UT,John R. Curtis,C001114,www.curtis.senate.gov,curtis,https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Bipartisan resolution designates August 22–30 as “National Park Week”

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator John Curtis (R-UT) joined his colleagues in cosponsoring a bipartisan resolution designating the week of August 22 through August 30, 2026, as “National Park Week.” The resolution, introduced by Senator Steve Daines (R-MT), recognizes the National Park Service’s role in preserving the United States’ natural, historical, and cultural treasures and encourages Americans to responsibly enjoy the nation’s public lands.

“Utahns know better than most what a gift our national parks are,” said Senator Curtis. “These landscapes connect us to our history, strengthen local economies, and give families from across the country and around the world the chance to experience some of the United States’ most remarkable places. National Park Week is an opportunity to celebrate these treasures and recommit ourselves to preserving them for generations to come.”

Background:

Utah is home to five national parks—Arches, Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Capitol Reef, and Zion—which draw millions of visitors each year and serve as major economic drivers for gateway communities across the state. Together with Utah’s national monuments, recreation areas, and historic sites, these public lands showcase the state’s unique landscapes while supporting outdoor recreation, tourism, and local jobs.

More broadly, the National Park System welcomed more than 323 million recreational visits in 2025, underscoring the important role national parks play in recreation and communities across the country. In 2024, visitor spending associated with national parks generated approximately $56.3 billion in economic output nationwide.

The resolution:

Designates August 22–30, 2026, as National Park Week;

Recognizes the National Park Service’s work to preserve the nation’s natural, historical, and cultural resources;

Highlights the economic and recreational benefits of the National Park System; and

Encourages Americans to responsibly visit, enjoy, and support national parks.

Senator Curtis also cosponsored the National Park Week resolution in 2025.",1,2026-08-26T05:33:32Z,2026-08-26T05:34:56Z
https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-convenes-utah-leaders-to-explore-bold-solutions-for-great-salt-lake-utahs-water-future,"Curtis Convenes Utah Leaders to Explore Bold Solutions for Great Salt Lake, Utah’s Water Future",2026-08-21,2026,2026-08,Republican,Senate,UT,John R. Curtis,C001114,www.curtis.senate.gov,curtis,https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"SALT LAKE CITY—U.S. Senator John Curtis (R-UT) convened a group of experts—including state elected officials, water experts, researchers, conservation leaders, and members of Utah’s technology sector—for a roundtable discussion on bold, long-term solutions to strengthen Utah’s water supply and protect the Great Salt Lake.

“A rich part of Utah’s heritage is our ingenuity and determination to solve societal challenges, particularly when it comes to water, and protecting the Great Salt Lake is no exception,” said Senator Curtis following the event. “This roundtable was focused on putting every idea on the table, bringing the right people together, and thinking boldly about what’s possible. There won’t be one silver bullet, but I’m confident that Utah can lead the way, and I’ll keep working to ensure the federal government is a strong partner in getting it done.”

Photos from the event are available here.

The discussion focused on both immediate and long-term strategies to strengthen Utah’s water supply and protect the Great Salt Lake. Participants explored ideas ranging from desalination and interstate water infrastructure to expanded cloud seeding and improved forest management. The group also discussed reducing water loss from evaporation and mineral production, and engaging Utah’s technology sector to develop new solutions. Throughout the conversation, participants emphasized that no single approach will solve the challenge and that progress will require a combination of innovation, conservation, infrastructure, and continued federal, state, private, and philanthropic partnership.

The roundtable group included Hannah Freeze, Great Salt Lake Commissioner; Clint Betts, CEO and Co-Founder of Silicon Slopes; Dr. Kevin Perry, Professor in the Department of Atmospheric Sciences at the University of Utah; Dr. Ben Abbott, Associate Professor of Environmental Science and Ecology at Brigham Young University and Executive Director of Grow the Flow; Scott Sandall, State Senator; Jill Koford, Utah Representative; Tim Hawkes, Great Salt Lake Advisory Council Chairman; Dr. Brian Steed, Vice President for Government and External Relations at Utah State University; Marcelle Shoop, Executive Director of the Saline Lakes Program for the National Audubon Society; Megan Nelson, Director of Policy and External Affairs for The Nature Conservancy in Utah; Jordan Nielson, Executive Director of Great Salt Lake Rising; Gene Shawcroft, Chair of the Colorado River Authority and General Manager at Central Utah Water Conservancy District; Joel Ferry, Commissioner of the Utah Department of Natural Resources (DNR); and Ben Stireman, Deputy Director of DNR.

Curtis plans to convene similar discussions and continue soliciting ideas from state, federal, private-sector, and community partners on both immediate and long-term approaches to Utah’s water future.",1,2026-08-22T05:24:59Z,2026-08-22T05:26:16Z
https://www.lee.senate.gov/2026/8/lee-colleagues-call-for-investigation-of-california-s-climate-pacts-with-china,"Lee, Colleagues Call for Investigation of California’s Climate Pacts with China",2026-08-20,2026,2026-08,Republican,Senate,UT,Mike Lee,L000577,www.lee.senate.gov,mikelee,https://www.lee.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) joined Senators Rick Scott (R-FL), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), and Congresswoman Young Kim (R-CA-39) to call for an investigation into the state of California’s numerous climate agreements with the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). The members of Congress penned a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Attorney General Todd Blanche outlining California’s inappropriate climate agreements with China.

“If Governor Newsom would like to assume foreign affairs authorities constitutionally vested in the federal government, that option, however quixotic, ill-conceived, and downright laughable, is theoretically available to him. As it stands, however, he is likely violating the Constitution, serving as China’s useful pawn while destroying the pocketbooks of millions of hardworking Americans,” wrote the members of Congress.

Background

The Compact Clause of the Constitution gives the federal government authority over foreign affairs, and the Supreme Court has upheld that even state action with a mere ""direct impact upon foreign relations""[1]may be unconstitutional. Despite this, California has an extensive history of circumventing Congressional approval and entering into agreements with CCP conduits, including:

California China Climate Institute

Founded in 2019 by Governor Jerry Brown and the CCP’s longtime global climate envoy, Xie Zhenhua, the goal was to shape U.S. and subnational climate policy and advance the goals of the Paris Agreement. The California China Climate Institute was codified into law by Governor Newsom.

China-U.S. ZEV Policy Lab

Agreed upon by the University of California-Davis and the China Automotive Technology and Research Center, the China-U.S. ZEV Policy Lab committed both sides to speed the commercialization of electric cars.

Read the full letter here.

###",1,2026-08-21T05:30:57Z,2026-08-21T05:32:22Z
https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-promotes-policy-to-address-utahs-growth-affordable-housing-with-utah-transportation-leaders,"Curtis Promotes Policy to Address Utah’s Growth, Affordable Housing with Utah Transportation Leaders",2026-08-19,2026,2026-08,Republican,Senate,UT,John R. Curtis,C001114,www.curtis.senate.gov,curtis,https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Senator John Curtis (R-UT), member of the Commerce and Environment and Public Works Committees, today joined leaders from the Wasatch Front Regional Council (WFRC), Utah Transit Authority (UTA), Salt Lake City, Mountainland Association of Governments (MAG), and others to discuss policy developments that would strengthen Utah’s transportation network, expand affordable housing opportunities near transit hubs, and prepare the state’s infrastructure for continued growth and upcoming high-traffic events like the Salt Lake Temple open house in 2027 and the 2034 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games.

“Like Americans across the country, Utahns are facing affordability pressures. But we are also facing uniquely rapid growth, which is good for our economy but can worsen traffic and lead to overcrowding,” said Senator Curtis following the event. “Today’s event brought together transit officials, local leaders, and the private sector to discuss real solutions that will serve Utahns and address these problems. Whether it’s securing investments in FrontRunner, ensuring transportation investments proactively address our population growth, or creating more housing near transit, we have an opportunity to maintain a strong quality of life for Utahns well into the future.”

Photos of the event are available here.

The group met at WFRC’s offices before visiting the North Temple FrontRunner station, where participants discussed the FrontRunner 2X project and Senator Curtis’ bipartisan Promoting Advancement Through Transit and Housing (PATH) Act and Build Housing, Unlock Benefits and Services (Build HUBS) Act.

Curtis also highlighted the recent advancement of the FrontRunner 2X project into the Engineering phase of the Federal Transit Administration’s Capital Investment Grants program, an important step toward securing nearly $1.3 billion in federal funding for improvements to FrontRunner.

Read more about the PATH Act here, the Build HUBS Act here, and the FrontRunner 2X project here.",1,2026-08-20T05:28:41Z,2026-08-20T05:29:58Z
https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-daines-introduce-bill-to-strengthen-american-critical-mineral-production,"Curtis, Daines Introduce Bill to Strengthen American Critical Mineral Production",2026-08-14,2026,2026-08,Republican,Senate,UT,John R. Curtis,C001114,www.curtis.senate.gov,curtis,https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Critical Mineral and Extraction Tax Parity Act would expand incentives for domestic mining, processing, and production

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT) and Steve Daines (R-MT) introduced the Critical Mineral and Extraction Tax Parity Act, legislation to strengthen America’s domestic critical mineral supply chains by expanding and improving the Advanced Manufacturing Production Tax Credit under Section 45X of the Internal Revenue Code.

“The United States should not have to depend on foreign adversaries for the minerals that power our economy, support our national defense, and underpin modern technology,” said Senator Curtis. “Utah and states across the West have the resources, workers, and expertise to produce more of these materials here at home. Our bill makes sure the tax code recognizes the full cost of American mineral production and gives domestic producers a fair opportunity to compete with heavily subsidized, artificially propped-up foreign supply chains.”

“There is no reason the United States should rely on other foreign nations for critical minerals that can be found right here at home, including in Montana. I’m proud to work with Senator Curtis to expand our critical mineral supply chain and ensure fairness in the tax code for American producers and businesses. It’s time to unleash America’s natural resources to power our economy and strengthen our national security,” said Senator Daines.

Background:

Critical minerals are essential inputs for energy infrastructure, advanced manufacturing, defense systems, agriculture, electronics, and other sectors of the U.S. economy. The Critical Mineral and Extraction Tax Parity Act updates Section 45X to better reflect the economics of domestically producing those minerals, including the extraction activities necessary before refining can occur. The legislation would add several strategically important minerals to the Section 45X credit, recognize qualifying costs associated with extracting ore, and eliminate the reduced credit rate currently applied to metallurgical coal.

The legislation would strengthen and expand the Advanced Manufacturing Production Tax Credit by:

Expanding eligible critical minerals to include boron, copper, lead, potash, rhenium, silicon, silver, uranium, and phosphate;

Ensuring parity for metallurgical coal by removing the current 2.5 percent credit limit, allowing producers to claim the same credit available to other eligible minerals; and

Clarifying that mineral extraction is an eligible expense under the credit if the ore is extracted in the United States or if the ore is not of a type extracted in the U.S. at a commercial scale and not extracted in a foreign country of concern.

Section 45X is intended to encourage domestic production of critical components and materials essential to American manufacturing. By recognizing additional critical minerals and the costs required to extract the raw materials used to produce them, the bill would strengthen incentives to build more complete mineral supply chains in the United States and reduce reliance on foreign sources.

The full text of the bill is available here.

“To meet the nation’s surging energy demand, electric utilities need a domestic supply of energy infrastructure and equipment,” said Mike Squires, UAMPS Managing Director of Government Affairs (UAMPS). “Much of this equipment contains critical minerals like copper that Utah produces. UAMPS is grateful for Senator Curtis’ leadership on advancing legislation that would increase critical mining and processing capacity in the United States.”

“Adding phosphate to the list of eligible minerals under section 45X of the Internal Revenue Code will greatly help domestic phosphate producers like the Simplot Company and will incentivize future investment in phosphate mining and processing,” said Garrett Lofto, President and CEO, the Simplot Company. “We very much appreciate Senator John Curtis’ leadership on this legislation and his support of strengthening the domestic supply chain for critical minerals such as phosphate.”

“The Critical Mineral and Extraction Tax Parity Act brings federal tax policy in line with today’s mineral needs by reflecting the latest U.S. Geological Survey critical minerals list and recognizing the importance of domestic extraction and production,” said Lyndsey Wright, Women’s Mining Coalition Executive Director. “This commonsense legislation strengthens America’s mineral supply chains, supports a competitive domestic mining industry, and helps reduce our dependence on foreign sources for the resources our economy and national security rely on.”

“We applaud the introduction of the Critical Mineral and Extraction Tax Parity Act, an important step to strengthen America’s mineral security and competitiveness,” Said Rich Nolan, President and CEO, National Mining Association. “Extending the Advanced Manufacturing Tax Credit to include the Department of the Interior’s updated list of critical minerals, provides investors with meaningful incentives to expand domestic mining and production across the country. All of these minerals are indispensable to America’s manufacturing base, energy systems, economy and national defense, yet the United States remains dangerously dependent on foreign sources for far too many of them. America has the resources. What we need are policies that allow us to produce them and directly address the alarming gaps in our minerals supply chains.”

“The Uranium Producers of America (UPA) applauds Senator Curtis [and Senator Daines] for introducing the Senate companion of the Critical Mineral and Extraction Tax Parity Act” said Scott Melbye, President, UPA and Executive Vice President, Uranium Energy Corp. “This important legislation will strengthen domestic critical mineral production, including uranium. It will further reduce U.S. dependence on foreign adversaries for uranium supply chains. Including uranium and other critical minerals within the Section 45X Advanced Manufacturing Tax Credit will spur further investment in America uranium production, ensuring American energy security and national security as the world increasingly looks to nuclear energy to meet growing power demand. This legislation complements previous efforts by Congress and the Trump Administration to ensure a robust and reliable domestic nuclear fuel supply chain that UPA and its member companies are actively working to expand.”

“Minerals are crucial to the future of American energy dominance,” said Andrew Sandstrom, Executive Director of Unleash Utah. “By incentivizing domestic extraction, we are shifting production away from adversarial regimes with abysmal environmental and labor records. This will unlock jobs for our rural communities, secure our supply chains, and help lower costs. It’s time we stop importing our energy future from China and start building it ourselves.”

“America should lead the world in critical minerals production,” said Jeremy Harrell, CEO, ClearPath Action. “The Critical Mineral and Extraction Tax Parity Act will incentivize domestic production for all minerals on the USGS critical minerals list, strengthen supply chains and ensure America, not foreign adversaries, controls our energy and economic future.”",1,2026-08-15T05:23:20Z,2026-08-15T05:24:50Z
https://www.lee.senate.gov/2026/8/lee-introduces-kayleigh-s-law-to-protect-victims-of-sexual-crimes-from-contact-by-abusers,Lee Introduces Kayleigh’s Law to Protect Victims of Sexual Crimes from Contact by Abusers,2026-08-12,2026,2026-08,Republican,Senate,UT,Mike Lee,L000577,www.lee.senate.gov,mikelee,https://www.lee.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) introduced Kayleigh’s Law to protect victims from any further unwanted contact with their abuser. Named for survivor Kayleigh Kozak who bravely testified against her soccer coach for sexually abusing her as a sixth grader, the bill will require courts to issue permanent no-contact orders at the request of victims who have suffered violence or sexual abuse.

“Victims of sexual crimes often have to face their abusers in court over and over again, and even hear from these monsters outside of the courtroom. They fear for their safety, and they deserve better protection,” said Senator Mike Lee. “Kayleigh Kozak bravely faced her abusive soccer coach multiple times in court after he assaulted her in the sixth grade. Survivors like Kayleigh have suffered vile abuse and should never be dissuaded from coming forward by fear of retaliation or further contact from their attacker. I’m proud to sponsor Kayleigh’s Law to require courts to issue permanent no-contact orders on convicted defendants at victims’ request.”

“The harm caused by sexual assault is not temporary. It is lifelong,” said Kayleigh Kozak. “The protections for those who have been sexually violated should be lifelong, too.”

Kayleigh’s Law is endorsed by public safety authority Right On Crime:

“Kayleigh’s Law reflects a simple truth: justice should not come with an expiration date for victims. When the system allows dangerous offenders back into a victim’s life, it fails its most basic responsibility. Courts should have the authority to stand with survivors for the long term, and Kayleigh’s Law makes that possible.” – Brett Tolman, Executive Director, Right On Crime

Kayleigh’s Law

Applies to defendants convicted of a crime of violence or a felony offense that includes as an element a sexual act or sexual conduct.

Requires the court—on motion of the Government (with the consent of a victim) or a victim—to issue a permanent order during sentencing to prohibit the convicted defendant from contacting a victim directly or indirectly, through written, oral, electronic, digital, or physical means.",1,2026-08-13T06:17:16Z,2026-08-13T06:18:13Z
https://www.lee.senate.gov/2026/8/lee-introduces-circuit-court-of-appeals-reorganization-act,Lee Introduces Circuit Court of Appeals Reorganization Act,2026-08-11,2026,2026-08,Republican,Senate,UT,Mike Lee,L000577,www.lee.senate.gov,mikelee,https://www.lee.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Mike Lee (R-UT) introduced the Circuit Court of Appeals Reorganization Act, restructuring the Eighth, Ninth, and Tenth U.S. Circuit Courts of Appeals to more accurately reflect modern population growth and geographic interests. Cosponsoring the legislation are Senators John Barrasso (R-WY), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Steve Daines (R-MT), Jim Risch (R-ID), and Tim Sheehy (R-MT).

“Congress is entrusted with the authority to ‘ordain and establish’ inferior federal courts,” said Senator Mike Lee. “For too long, we have failed to modernize our western circuit courts, despite the Ninth Circuit’s comparatively immense size – both in terms of geography and population. Congress needs to prioritize the efficiency of the federal judiciary to ensure a more balanced, predictable, and effective appellate system. I hope that this new proposal can serve as the basis for future bipartisan discussions.”

“The Ninth Circuit’s disproportionate caseload and vast geographic reach have contributed to an overburdened and inefficient judiciary,” said Senator Mike Crapo. “Reorganizing the circuit would help reduce these pressures, improve the timely administration of justice and better align Idaho with a court that reflects the needs of our state and region.”

“Our judicial system was designed to be deliberative but not completely obstructive,” said Senator Steve Daines. “The 9th Circuit Court faces a significant backlog that hinders the administration of justice throughout the West. Montanans deserve better. I’m proud to work with Senator Lee on this bill to better organize the western circuit courts and ensure timely justice for all.”

“Idahoans have endured a Ninth Circuit dominated by California’s values for far too long,” said Senator Jim Risch. “The Circuit Court of Appeals Reorganization Act would restructure the Eighth, Ninth, and Tenth Circuits to create a more efficient judicial system that better reflects Idaho’s values and interests.”

""The immense size of the Ninth Circuit has created unnecessary delays, inconsistent decisions, and a court that is increasingly disconnected from the communities it serves,” said Senator Tim Sheehy. “Montanans deserve a responsive and predictable federal appellate court that can better address the unique challenges facing the West. This commonsense legislation reforms our federal judiciary by creating circuits that are more manageable and better able to deliver timely, consistent justice – ensuring every American has access to a fair and effective appellate process.""

Background

The Ninth Circuit is the largest federal appellate circuit in the U.S. by both population and geographic area. Created during the era of Westward Expansion, the Ninth Circuit has experienced significant population growth in recent decades. The Ninth Circuit comprises 29 judgeships, nearly 20% of the U.S. population, and 40% of the U.S. landmass. Comparatively, the Eighth and Tenth Circuits have only 11 and 12 judgeships, respectively, and cover approximately 5.5-6.5% of the U.S. population.

The Ninth Circuit’s unique en banc structure has also created inconsistency in its decision-making processes. Currently, when a panel decision is appealed to the full Ninth Circuit, only 11 of the 29 judges speak for the entire court, which causes potentially inconsistent and contradictory case outcomes. Litigants and their lawyers are thus faced with a justice system that is unwieldy and unpredictable.

What the Bill Achieves

The Circuit Court of Appeals Reorganization Act will right-size the western circuits by moving Idaho, Wyoming, Montana, and Alaska to the Eighth Circuit, and Nevada and Arizona to the Tenth Circuit. The dispersion of states from the Ninth Circuit into other surrounding federal circuits will more accurately depict modern-day regional interests, population growth, and geography – securing a more just legal system for all Americans.

Read the full bill text here.

###",1,2026-08-12T06:18:38Z,2026-08-12T06:20:33Z
https://www.lee.senate.gov/2026/8/lee-warren-urge-pentagon-to-codify-trump-s-successful-eo-to-cut-defense-waste-boost-efficiency,"Lee, Warren Urge Pentagon to Codify Trump’s Successful EO to Cut Defense Waste, Boost Efficiency",2026-08-11,2026,2026-08,Republican,Senate,UT,Mike Lee,L000577,www.lee.senate.gov,mikelee,https://www.lee.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Mike Lee (R-UT) and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) published a bipartisan analysis revealing the success of President Trump’s executive order to cut wasteful government spending and boost America’s national security by limiting individual defense contractors’ stock buybacks in response to how efficiently they deliver on their contracts with the federal government. The senators urged Secretary of War Pete Hegseth to codify this progress into law by supporting their bipartisan Prioritizing the Warfighter in Defense Contracting Act. The legislation will make permanent President Trump’s plan to boost efficiency and competition within defense contracting.

“The Pentagon is handing companies billions – and now potentially trillions – of taxpayer dollars,” wrote the senators. “Congress and the Administration must work together to ensure they fulfill their contractual obligations and enhance national security.”

For decades, defense contractors have consistently fallen short in delivering weapons programs to DoW on time and on budget. In January, President Trump issued an executive order to address this problem, restricting executive pay packages and limiting stock buybacks and dividend payments for defense contractors that don’t meet DoW’s performance needs and fail to invest in expanding their production capacity.

A new review of the top 20 defense industry’s latest earnings calls and financial reports, conducted by the offices of Senators Lee and Warren, reveals that the DoW’s signal for accountability is already generating a positive response — and underscores the need for legislation to make the progress permanent.

In the six months since President Trump issued his executive order, each of the four largest defense contractors that engaged in stock buybacks and dividend payouts in the first quarter of 2025 cut them dramatically in the first quarter of 2026. Combined, these four companies — Lockheed Martin, RTX, Northrop Grumman, and General Dynamics — spent $4.2 billion on buybacks and dividends in Q1 2025; during the same quarter this year, they spent only $2.7 billion, a roughly 36 percent drop.

These defense contractors continued to report a strong financial outlook for their shareholders, making clear that this reduction in buybacks did not pose any harm to the companies’ underlying business fundamentals.

Despite the executive order — and the success it had in restricting buybacks by the big four contractors — other contractors continued to hand out larger stock buybacks and dividends to shareholders while the companies’ capital expenditures declined. For example, GE Aerospace spent $2.3 billion on stock buybacks in Q1 2026, a 21% increase from the $1.9 billion it spent on stock buybacks in Q1 2025.

“These contractors who did not respond to the President’s executive order reveal the need for legislation that emboldens the Department to enforce accountability,” wrote the senators.

“The latest round of financial reports from defense contractors shows that despite their concerns, defense contractors can afford to prioritize the warfighter and increase investments to improve outcomes and address schedule delays and cost overruns plaguing the Pentagon’s weapons systems,” wrote the senators.

“Given the findings of our review, we urge your support for codifying the President’s executive order into law and ensuring that the order has lasting results,” concluded the senators.

Read exclusive coverage by Fox News here.

Read the full text of the letter here.

###",1,2026-08-12T06:18:38Z,2026-08-12T06:20:33Z
https://www.lee.senate.gov/2026/8/utah-colorado-senators-honor-firefighters-killed-in-wildfires,"Utah, Colorado Senators Honor Firefighters Killed in Wildfires",2026-08-11,2026,2026-08,Republican,Senate,UT,Mike Lee,L000577,www.lee.senate.gov,mikelee,https://www.lee.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Mike Lee (R-UT), John Curtis (R-UT), Michael Bennet (D-CO), and John Hickenlooper (D-CO) introduced a bipartisan resolution honoring the bravery and sacrifice of several firefighters whose lives were lost while combatting recent wildfires on the Utah-Colorado border.

“We honor and mourn the courageous firefighters who gave their lives to protect the people we love and the frontier we call home,” said Senator Mike Lee. “These brave Americans from across the country dropped into the eye of the storm via helicopter to fight the wildfires ripping through Utah’s eastern border. Their sacrifice will always be remembered in the lands they protected. Utah’s prayers are with the families grieving these heroes.”

“Behind every wildfire are brave men and women who embody the very best of public service: courage, selflessness, and an unwavering commitment to protecting our communities, often at great personal risk,” said Senator John Curtis. “Since this resolution was introduced, it was confirmed that Utah has lost two more heroic individuals in a helicopter crash while fighting the Widemouth 2 Fire. My heart is with the families, friends, and fellow firefighters mourning the devastating loss of these brave Americans.”

“Our hearts are with the families, loved ones, and fellow firefighters grieving the loss of the five wildland firefighters who gave their lives protecting others,” said Senator Michael Bennet. “Today’s resolution honors the courage, sacrifice, and service of those who risk their lives to keep their fellow Americans safe during wildfires.”

“The bravery and heroism of these firefighters deserve our deepest gratitude,” said Senator John Hickenlooper. “Our hearts are with the families and friends of these heroic men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice protecting lives, homes, and the landscapes we all cherish.”

Read the full resolution text here.",1,2026-08-12T06:18:38Z,2026-08-12T06:20:33Z
https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/utah-colorado-senators-honor-casualties-from-wildfires,"Utah, Colorado Senators Honor Casualties from Wildfires",2026-08-10,2026,2026-08,Republican,Senate,UT,John R. Curtis,C001114,www.curtis.senate.gov,curtis,https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Mike Lee (R-UT), and John Hickenlooper (D-CO) introduced a bipartisan resolution honoring all those who serve on the front lines of wildland firefighting efforts in the United States.

“Behind every wildfire are brave men and women who embody the very best of public service: courage, selflessness, and an unwavering commitment to protecting our communities, often at great personal risk,” said Senator Curtis. “Since this resolution was introduced, it was confirmed that Utah has lost two more heroic individuals in a helicopter crash while fighting the Widemouth 2 Fire. My heart is with the families, friends, and fellow firefighters mourning the devastating loss of these brave Americans.”

“Our hearts are with the families, loved ones, and fellow firefighters grieving the loss of the five wildland firefighters who gave their lives protecting others,” said Senator Bennet. “Today’s resolution honors the courage, sacrifice, and service of those who risk their lives to keep their fellow Americans safe during wildfires.”

“Last month, five courageous firefighters gave their lives to protect the people we love and the frontier we call home,” said Senator Lee. “These brave Americans from across the country dropped into the eye of the storm via helicopter to fight the wildfires ripping through Utah’s eastern border. Their sacrifice will always be remembered in the lands they protected. Utah’s prayers are with the families grieving these heroes.”

“The bravery and heroism of these firefighters deserve our deepest gratitude,” said Senator Hickenlooper. “Our hearts are with the families and friends of these heroic men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice protecting lives, homes, and the landscapes we all cherish.”

Background:

Utah fire seasons typically begin in July and end in October. Not even through the second month of the 2026 fire season, Utah has already experienced 820 total wildfires with over 514,000 acres burned in 2026.

This has also been one of the deadliest fire seasons. The resolution, formally introduced on August 7, honors Emily Barker, Nicholas Hutcherson, Sydney Watson, and Nathan Matthews, who recently lost their lives fighting fires along the Utah-Colorado border, as well as Nicholas Dale, who died fighting the Gold Mountain Fire in Colorado. Since then, two firefighters were tragically confirmed killed in a helicopter crash while fighting the Widemouth 2 Fire in central Utah.

Senator Curtis has made wildfire prevention and forest resilience a central legislative priority, championing bipartisan solutions that focus on reducing catastrophic wildfire risk before fires start. As a lead sponsor of the Fix Our Forests Act, Curtis is working to accelerate hazardous fuels reduction, improve forest management, streamline permitting for high-priority projects, and strengthen coordination among federal, state, tribal, and local partners. The bill passed the House and has broad bipartisan support in the Senate. Curtis has also co-led the bipartisan Wildfire Emissions Prevention Act, which removes regulatory barriers to the use of prescribed burns—one of the most effective tools for preventing catastrophic wildfires—while ensuring states are not penalized for taking proactive forest management actions.",1,2026-08-11T05:54:29Z,2026-08-11T05:56:25Z
https://www.lee.senate.gov/2026/8/lee-introduces-stopping-border-surges-act,Lee Introduces Stopping Border Surges Act,2026-08-10,2026,2026-08,Republican,Senate,UT,Mike Lee,L000577,www.lee.senate.gov,mikelee,https://www.lee.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) introduced the Stopping Border Surges Act to disincentivize child trafficking and combat bad-faith asylum fraud. The bill is cosponsored by Senators Jim Banks (R-IN), Katie Britt (R-AL), Tom Cotton (R-AR), Ted Cruz (R-TX), Rick Scott (R-FL), and Tommy Tuberville (R-AL).

“Child traffickers have smuggled abused children across our border thanks to the Biden administration’s policies that made it easier for them to cross by claiming to have a child,” said Senator Mike Lee. “On top of that, many of these kids were released into their kidnapper’s arms. This is not merciful; it’s a Democrat-concocted system that favored traffickers. All the while, these coyotes were claiming to seek asylum, passing multiple safe countries on their way here without stopping. The Stopping Border Surges Act will disincentivize asylum fraud and give President Trump’s border team the tools they need to protect exploited kids.”

“Loopholes in our immigration laws have encouraged illegal crossing, fueled asylum fraud, and put vulnerable children at risk,” said Senator Jim Banks. “The Stopping Border Surges Act closes those loopholes, strengthens enforcement, and restores integrity to our immigration system.”

“Illegal border crossings not only endanger Americans; they also incentivize the abuse and trafficking of migrant women and children,” said Senator Katie Britt. “Now is the time to pass the Stopping Border Surges Act to permanently close these loopholes that embolden criminals and bad actors. I will always fight to keep American families and communities safe.”

“Joe Biden’s reckless open border policies allowed illegal aliens to exploit our immigration system,” said Senator Tom Cotton. “Our bill would close loopholes that incentivize illegal border crossings, endanger children and families, and undermine our asylum system.”

“America saw what open borders and mass amnesty looked like for four miserable years,” said Senator Rick Scott. “Democrat policies failed Laken Riley, Sheridan Gorman, Jocelyn Nungaray, and countless other Americans. We can never let a future president do that to us again – or worse. We know what the radical left socialists want: look at Spain and across Europe and look at what happened to our border under Biden. For the sake of our country, Congress must codify President Trump’s border agenda and close every possible loophole in America’s immigration system before it’s too late. We cannot go back.”

“Thankfully, President Trump has locked down our borders after Joe Biden let millions of illegals invade our country,” said Senator Tommy Tuberville. “But unfortunately, we still have loopholes that are incentivizing illegals to make the dangerous journey to come here. Proud to join Sen. Mike Lee in introducing legislation to make sure we are not actively encouraging illegal immigration.”

Background

Senator Lee’s bill would eliminate the expansion of the Flores Settlement Agreement by allowing alien children accompanied by parents to be held with that parent for the duration of the parent’s adjudication. This would end the incentive for non-parents to claim an unknown child as their own. It also removes any incentive for parents to bring children with them on the hazardous journey to the U.S. Border. Unfortunately, non-parents are increasingly using children as a get-out-of-jail-free card at the child’s expense. These children are often “recycled” by smugglers and forced to cross multiple times to ensure admission for more adults.

The United States currently returns unaccompanied children from Mexico and Canada quickly and safely. Children from other countries, however, are placed in a lengthy removal process. They are released into the United States with the same adults that smuggled them into the country. Consequently, the policy incentivizes the enlistment of couriers to smuggle children across the border. Senator Lee’s legislation ends this incentive by extending the same seamless process available to children from Mexico and Canada.",1,2026-08-11T05:54:29Z,2026-08-11T05:56:25Z
https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-van-hollen-introduce-legislation-to-combat-affordable-housing-crisis-strengthen-usps,"Curtis, Van Hollen Introduce Legislation to Combat Affordable Housing Crisis, Strengthen USPS",2026-08-07,2026,2026-08,Republican,Senate,UT,John R. Curtis,C001114,www.curtis.senate.gov,curtis,https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT) and Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) introduced the Delivering Americans Affordable Homes Act, bipartisan legislation to address the shortage of affordable housing and funding shortfalls at the United States Postal Service (USPS). Amid record-breaking housing costs, the Senators’ new bill would allow local communities to lease Postal Service propertyrights for new affordable housing construction. At the same time, this legislation protects against the sale of Postal Service assets, supports the rehabilitation and new construction of Postal facilities, and eases the Postal Service’s critical financial constraints.

“Utah desperately needs more housing, and the Postal Service needs new sources of revenue; this commonsense legislation helps accomplish both,” said Senator Curtis. “By giving USPS the authority to lease underutilized property for housing development, we can put unused land to work, expand the housing supply, and strengthen an institution that millions of Americans rely on every day.”

“Far too many working Americans are faced with housing costs they simply cannot afford. At the same time, the Postal Service faces financial struggles that, if left unaddressed, will result in USPS running out of money to operate. With this legislation, we’re not only bringing new, affordable homes to communities across the country, we’re also working to shore up the Postal Service so that it can continue serving Americans for generations to come. It’s a win-win,” said Senator Van Hollen.

Background:

Currently, USPS owns about 8,500 properties around the United States, many of which are located in places suitable for housing construction and in areas with high housing demand. According to a recent analysis from Brookings, housing construction on postal property could build over 200,000 new homes and bring hundreds of millions of dollars to the Postal Service each year.

The Delivering Americans Affordable Homes Act would set guardrails on housing construction by USPS by allowing for the lease, but prohibiting the sale, of Postal Service property for housing construction and ensuring USPS maintains discretion over its real estate assets. The bill also requires housing units constructed on Postal Service property to include tenant affordability restrictions on at least 20% of units, among other provisions.

A one-page summary of this bill is available here, and the full text of the legislation is available here.

The legislation is supported by the Bipartisan Policy Center Action, Chamber of Progress, and Inclusive Abundance Action, among others.

“I applaud Senators Van Hollen and Curtis for their leadership in crafting this win-win legislation,” said Aaron Shroyer, Nonresident Senior Fellow, Brookings Metro. “This bill would enable the United States Postal Service to tap an underutilized asset—its land—to create a durable revenue source, while also adding much-needed housing to main streets and downtowns across the country.”

“USPS-owned sites could offer meaningful opportunities to add homes in communities where housing is badly needed,” said Ben Metcalf, Managing Director, Terner Center for Housing Innovation. “Terner Center research has identified hundreds of USPS-owned sites that warrant closer evaluation for housing. While not every site will be feasible, underutilized postal properties could offer one solution to policymakers who are looking for ways to increase their affordable housing stock.”

“The Postal Service owns 8,500 properties, many of them on prime, well-located land that cities and states need for housing,” said Colin Higgins, Executive Director of the National Housing Crisis Task Force. “In our Federal Housing Policy Agenda, the National Housing Crisis Task Force called for putting federal land to work this way, and it’s good to see a bipartisan bill take up the idea. The hope is that cities and states can chart a path to build homes on underused public land while the Postal Service keeps its footprint and earns revenue.”",1,2026-08-08T05:41:38Z,2026-08-08T05:43:24Z
https://www.lee.senate.gov/2026/8/lee-cosponsors-ballots-by-election-day-act-to-restore-confidence-in-federal-elections,Lee Cosponsors Ballots by Election Day Act to Restore Confidence in Federal Elections,2026-08-07,2026,2026-08,Republican,Senate,UT,Mike Lee,L000577,www.lee.senate.gov,mikelee,https://www.lee.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) cosponsored the Ballots by Election Day Act with Senator James Lankford (R-OK) to require that all absentee and mail-in ballots in federal elections be received by the time polls close on Election Day in order to be counted.

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

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

Background

In Watson v. Republican National Committee, the U.S. Supreme Court allowed mail-in ballots postmarked by Election Day to be counted up to five days later and held that federal election-day statutes do not set a deadline for ballot receipt. The Ballots by Election Day Act legislatively closes this gap by setting a uniform federal deadline that requires ballots to be in the hands of election officials by the time polls close to be counted as valid.

The Ballots by Election Day Act:

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

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

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

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

Read the full bill text here.

Read exclusive coverage by Fox News here.

###",1,2026-08-08T05:41:38Z,2026-08-08T05:43:24Z
https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-highlights-need-to-reduce-regulatory-burdens-preserve-family-farms,"Curtis Highlights Need to Reduce Regulatory Burdens, Preserve Family Farms",2026-08-06,2026,2026-08,Republican,Senate,UT,John R. Curtis,C001114,www.curtis.senate.gov,curtis,https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"During opening remarks, Senator Curtis introduced Mr. Rigby as a hearing witness. During questioning, Curtis focused on the growing regulatory burden facing farmers and ranchers, asking how federal regulations contribute to consolidation in agriculture and what Congress can do to help family operations remain competitive. Mr. Rigby explained that simplifying regulations, expanding access to capital, and supporting value-added agriculture are critical to helping producers manage rising costs and continue operating.

Video of the Senator’s introduction and questioning can be found here, and a transcript is below.

Introduction:

Senator Curtis: Thank you, Chair Young. It’s my privilege to introduce today’s witness from the great state of Utah. Mr. ValJay Rigby, thank you for being here today.

Mr. Rigby serves as president of the Utah Farm Bureau Federation, our state’s largest general agriculture organization, representing more than 3,700 members and their families. ValJay is a fifth-generation farmer from Newton, Utah, where his family continues to farm land that was part of its original 1869 homestead.

Today, he farms alongside his brothers and his children, raising beef cattle and growing approximately 1,500 acres of alfalfa and small grains. Mr. Rigby holds a bachelor’s degree in finance and a master’s degree in information systems from Utah State University. He has also served as president of the Cache County Farm Bureau, on local planning and zoning and water boards, and as a volunteer firefighter.

Thank you, Mr. Rigby, for making the trip from Utah to join us today. I’m sure they’re missing you back on the farm, but thank you for being here, and I look forward to hearing your testimony.

Questioning:

Curtis: Mr. Rigby, two things you said in your testimony: one I have a comment on; the other, I have a question. You talked about how you were developing character in youth, and I will just tell you, as a previous small business owner myself, if anybody ever walked in my door and said they grew up on a farm in Utah or Idaho, we hired them, no questions asked. They’re hard workers, they’re disciplined, and they’re problem-solvers. I would totally agree with you.

You also alluded to the fact that you don’t have a room full of lawyers and attorneys to help navigate these regulations, and I want to focus on that for just a minute, particularly as it relates to the move toward consolidation in farms and ranches. If you think about the high costs that my colleague from Colorado alluded to, and the regulatory burden, what role is that playing in this consolidation? And how do we here in Washington help you push back on that?

ValJay Rigby: I appreciate the question. Any time that we can reduce the regulatory burden on farmers and producers and simplify those programs, it is a tremendous help because, as a farmer, I wear lots of hats every day. I’m a business owner. I manage my finances. I’m constantly thinking about my cash flow. I may have lots of assets, but I have no cash in the bank. Just ask my banker.

Any time we can provide opportunities to incentivize adding value to the crops that I grow on my farm, that increases the revenue that comes into my farm. Any of those programs are a benefit. When we can incentivize lower interest rates, that’s one of the challenges in agriculture: access to capital and credit. A beginning farmer who’s just starting out faces the challenge that we’ve talked about. They don’t have decades of experience or a balance sheet to show the bank that they’re a good risk. Any of those programs are a tremendous help to our producers.

Curtis: Thank you.

You mentioned the diesel fuel, and I suspect that’s an investment you’ve made that doesn’t pay off the next week, or the next month. You’re making investments that literally don’t pay off for years. I’m curious, as we reflect on tax policy here and the way it impacts small businesses, given your limited cash flow and margins, talk to us about tax policy—what we do here—and how it influences you, both good and bad.

Rigby: We appreciate last summer’s Working Families Tax Cut Act. It’s helpful for production agriculture. Having that certainty to know, as a producer, that I have that permanent $15 million per individual exemption from the estate tax is really important, so I can plan and have some certainty. The biggest asset that I have as a producer is the land, and I need that certainty as I plan.

Some of the other provisions are also a help to us. Any little bit that helps reduce some of that tax burden and incentivizes reinvestment in my farm is a great help.

Curtis: Just to state the obvious: if, upon your death, your heirs had to pay taxes before they could continue operating that farm, it would not make it to a sixth generation. Is that a fair statement?

Rigby: That is a fair statement. There’s no way they could do that. I was lucky enough to farm with my grandfather and my father. My father passed away a few years ago, and if he had died a few years earlier, we would have had a difficult time maintaining our farm if we had been caught in that window.

Curtis: Thank you. I’ve got just a moment left. I’d like to ask all of you to give me a quick answer and give me a sense of how our tax policy and our regulatory policies impact your hiring and financing decisions. Ms. High, we’ll start with you.

Nikki High: Thank you for that question. So much is dependent on our ability to have cash flow, similar to Mr. Rigby. Any break that we get from a tax perspective helps offset our built-in costs, including credit card servicing fees and other fees. Having a tax policy that benefits us allows us to continue hiring in the community and to do more outreach and advocacy programs.

Curtis: Thank you. Mr. Malshe.

Dr. Ajay Malshe: Thank you, Mr. Curtis, for asking that question. I think the two areas where it would help immensely: any dollars that go toward deep-tech product development or deep-tech research. If there can be a policy where those are not taxed, or taxed at a low rate, that would help because research converts money into knowledge, and if you tax the knowledge, you tax how you make the product. So I think research credits for small deep-tech businesses would be very helpful. Second, investment tax credits. If investments made in small businesses receive tax credits, that will increase investment in deep-tech businesses.

Lorena Cantarovici: I think we need to see everything globally, right? I’m not an expert in taxes—thank God. I take care of my [profit and loss statements] and pay attention to all the numbers. But I think as everything evolves, taxes should evolve too, and that we make sure the proportions are equal to what we’re paying. As a small business owner, I want to pay taxes. That means I’m alive. I want to create jobs, and I want to pay employment taxes as well—that’s part of doing business. I think it’s very important that we make sure everything grows in the same way. If I’m able to sell and the economy is good, we all want to pay the right taxes. If the economy isn’t good, we need help—but we need to survive. I don’t want to be in survival mode. I want to be in growth mode.",1,2026-08-07T06:11:19Z,2026-08-07T06:12:42Z
https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-bill-to-prevent-youth-suicide-passes-senate,Curtis Bill to Prevent Youth Suicide Passes Senate,2026-08-06,2026,2026-08,Republican,Senate,UT,John R. Curtis,C001114,www.curtis.senate.gov,curtis,https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON—The U.S. Senate passed the Youth Poisoning Prevention Act, bipartisan legislation led by U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Bernie Moreno (R-OH), and Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) to help prevent youth suicide by banning high-concentration sodium nitrite from being available to the public. Since 2017, the National Poison Data System has shown a sharp annual increase in young adults ingesting the substance with suicidal intent. There is no recognized household or consumer use for high-concentration sodium nitrite, yet the sale of this dangerous substance by retailers remains unregulated, resulting in tragic consequences.

“Too many young people are being put at risk by easy access to dangerous poisons,” said Senator Curtis. “I am proud to see our commonsense legislation to help protect vulnerable Americans, strengthen consumer safety, and prevent needless youth tragedies pass the Senate.”

“High-concentration sodium nitrite is a textbook example of a deadly product that should never be sold to consumers—let alone to our kids,” said Senator Duckworth. “Every child’s life is precious. We must ensure that our laws protecting our kids are up to date to protect against emerging deadly hazards. Our bipartisan legislation would immediately take this lethal substance off the shelves—it’s a no-brainer that must be sent to the President’s desk swiftly to help us protect our children.”

“I heard from a family who lost their daughter to this dangerous substance, and we have to do more to make sure no other American family suffers the same heartache,” said Senator Baldwin. “As new, deadly products like sodium nitrite become available to children, we must update our laws to keep these deadly chemicals out of the hands of our kids and prevent any further tragic deaths. I am proud to have worked with my Democratic and Republican colleagues to protect Wisconsin families, and I am glad that we are now one step closer to making our bill the law of the land.”

Background:

The Youth Poisoning Prevention Act would:

Ban the sale of high-concentration sodium nitrite to consumers by adding such products to the list of banned hazardous products under the Consumer Product Safety Act (15 U.S.C. 2057);

Define “high concentration of sodium nitrite” as a concentration of sodium nitrite greater than 10% (as there is no recognized household or consumer use of high-concentration sodium nitrite); and

Not interfere with the highly regulated use of high-concentration sodium nitrite for commercial and industrial purposes.

The full text of the bill can be found here.

The Youth Poisoning Prevention Act is endorsed by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, American Academy of Pediatrics, Consumer Reports, Center for Science in the Public Interest, Public Citizen, Consumer Federation of America, National Consumers League and Crisis Text Line—as well as a number of families who tragically lost their children to self-poisoning via high-concentration sodium nitrite ingestion.

“This law was written in the names of children who should still be alive,” said Kristin Jónsson, mother of the late Kristine Jónsson. “For years, high-purity sodium nitrite was sold with no guardrails despite mounting evidence that it had become a preferred suicide method. Today, we chose public health over preventable tragedy.”

“Every parent who came forward with me did so with one hope: that no other family would have to live this nightmare,” said Ruth Scott, mother of the late Mikael Scott. “We fought in our children’s names, and today their lives have left a legacy that will protect others.”

“The best wrongful death case is the one that never has to be filed,” said an attorney for the grieving families. “This law recognizes that prevention is always more powerful than accountability after the fact. Today, this country chose to save lives instead of counting them.”",1,2026-08-08T05:41:38Z,2026-08-08T05:43:24Z
https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/committee-advances-curtis-priorities-to-strengthen-online-safety-for-children,Committee Advances Curtis Priorities to Strengthen Online Safety for Children,2026-08-05,2026,2026-08,Republican,Senate,UT,John R. Curtis,C001114,www.curtis.senate.gov,curtis,https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Video of the Senator’s Committee remarks can be found here, and a transcript is below.

As we all know, the digital world is changing faster than parents can keep up with it. And our kids are growing up in an online environment that barely existed a few years ago.

My wife and I raised six children, and we thought it was complicated when we raised them. And now I am expecting my 19th grandchild in a couple of weeks, and I can’t fathom what they have to navigate to get through this environment.

The bills we advanced today are an important step toward giving families the tools and transparency they need to keep their kids safe.

I want to thank the Chairman, Ranking Member Cantwell, and everyone who worked together in good faith to get us here.

I’m especially proud to be a lead cosponsor of the CHATBOT Act with Chairman Cruz and Senators Schatz and Schiff.

Chairman Cruz was collaborative throughout this process and incorporated several ideas Senator Schiff and I advanced in our SAFE KIDS Act.

I’m also proud to partner with Senator Lee on the SCREEN Act and commit to work with him and my other colleagues to advance that to the Senate floor.

We have to get this right.

That means protecting children without stifling innovation, empowering parents without leaving them on their own, and writing laws that will still make sense years from now.

But our work isn’t finished today.

I’m continuing to push to advance bipartisan bills from my colleagues and me to hold platforms accountable for the harm their products create, help users distinguish authentic content from AI slop, and close loopholes that allow youth to access content they shouldn’t see.

Parents shouldn’t have to carry this burden alone.

Platforms have a responsibility, Congress has a responsibility, and we should keep working together to build a safer digital world for our kids.

Today’s votes are meaningful progress, but they’re not the finish line.

Background:

The Committee passed the Kids Online Safety Act; Youth AI Privacy Act; CHATBOT Act; and Children’s Artificial Intelligence Toy Safety Act of 2026. Included in the CHATBOT Act were several key provisions from Curtis’ bipartisan SAFE KIDS Act, introduced with Senator Adam Schiff (D-CA).

The provisions adopted from the SAFE KIDS Act include:

Requiring AI chatbots to provide regular, clear disclosures reminding users that they are interacting with artificial intelligence—not a real person;

Prohibiting AI chatbot providers from materially assisting a minor in planning or attempting suicide;

Prohibiting AI chatbot providers from providing obscene material to minors; and

Requiring AI chatbot providers to notify a parent or guardian, as soon as feasibly possible, if a minor asks about committing suicide, while also directing the minor to external crisis resources.

In addition, several other priorities championed by Senator Curtis in the SAFE KIDS Act were advanced through Senator Ed Markey (D-MA)’s Youth AI Privacy Act, including:

A prohibition on advertising to children through AI chatbots;

Restrictions preventing companies from processing or transferring children’s data for targeted or behavioral algorithmic purposes; and

Whistleblower protections to encourage employees to report violations and protect those who expose harmful practices.

Together, these provisions represent significant bipartisan progress toward establishing stronger safeguards for children online, increasing transparency around AI systems, strengthening parental awareness, and protecting young users from harmful or exploitative practices.",1,2026-08-06T07:37:31Z,2026-08-06T07:38:34Z
https://owens.house.gov/posts/owens-applauds-education-departments-approval-of-the-nations-first-workforce-pell-grant-program,OWENS APPLAUDS EDUCATION DEPARTMENT’S APPROVAL OF THE NATION’S FIRST WORKFORCE PELL GRANT PROGRAM,2026-08-05,2026,2026-08,Republican,House,UT,Burgess Owens,O000086,owens.house.gov,owens,https://owens.house.gov/press,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Rep. Burgess Owens (UT-04), Chairman of the Higher Education and Workforce Development Subcommittee, applauded the U.S. Department of Education’s approval of the nation’s first Workforce Pell Grant program.

“America is the land of opportunity, and there is not just one path to success. For too long, Washington told our kids the only way to a better life was through a traditional four-year degree and a mountain of debt. Education opens the door to opportunity and success. Thanks to this incredible step forward with Workforce Pell, hardworking Americans who want to get a good-paying job in a high-demand industry have the same opportunities as those looking for a more traditional path. Both are honorable and needed in today’s society. I’m grateful for the work Chairman Walberg, President Trump, and Secretary McMahon have done to deliver real opportunities and not empty promises to Americans,” said Rep. Burgess Owens (UT-04).

What Workforce Pell Does

Established under the Working Families Tax Cuts Act, Workforce Pell opens Pell Grant eligibility to short-term, high-quality training programs lasting 8 to 15 weeks. To qualify, a program must meet rigorous earnings, job placement, and completion benchmarks; have been in operation for at least one year; and be approved by both the state’s governor and the U.S. Secretary of Education. The reform gives students a debt-free, faster path to credentials in high-skill, high-wage, and in-demand fields.",1,2026-08-07T06:11:19Z,2026-08-07T06:12:42Z
https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-kelly-propose-state-sponsored-visa-pilot-program,"Curtis, Kelly Propose State-Sponsored Visa Pilot Program",2026-08-03,2026,2026-08,Republican,Senate,UT,John R. Curtis,C001114,www.curtis.senate.gov,curtis,https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Bipartisan legislation would empower states and address growing workforce demands in Utah

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT) and Mark Kelly (D-AZ) introduced the State Sponsored Visa Pilot Program Act of 2026, bipartisan legislation to create a new temporary visa program that allows states to address their unique workforce and economic development needs while maintaining strong federal oversight and immigration enforcement.

“I’ve heard time and again from small business owners, farmers, and ranchers across Utah how difficult it has become to hire enough workers to meet growing market demands,” said Senator Curtis. “Our legislation would help fill the gap by creating a pilot program allowing states to sponsor visas tailored to their unique economies, without sacrificing rigorous federal vetting or accountability.”

“States understand their own economic needs best, but federal rules currently determine who can live and work here,” said Senator Kelly. “Our bipartisan bill would let Arizona and other states choose the visas they need to fill labor gaps and strengthen their local economies.”

Background:

Despite having one of the strongest economies in the country, Utah faces a significant workforce shortage—particularly in agriculture, construction, and hospitality. A report published by the Sutherland Institute found that Utah “is experiencing one of the more severe workforce shortages among the states,” and “had a Worker Shortage Index of 0.72, meaning that there are 72 available workers for every 100 open jobs.”

Under the legislation, states could voluntarily establish state-sponsored visa programs tailored to their labor market demands, subject to approval by the Department of Homeland Security. Participating states would determine which workers or investors they sponsor while remaining responsible for monitoring compliance with program requirements. The federal government would retain authority over security screening, visa issuance, and immigration enforcement. Every applicant would be required to pass comprehensive federal background and security checks before receiving a visa.

To ensure accountability, the legislation requires participating states to:

Assess workforce needs and prevailing wages on a regular basis;

Prevent displacement of American workers and investigate complaints;

Track participants’ employment and residency;

Report compliance to the federal government; and

Accept reductions or suspensions in visa allocations if compliance standards are not met.

The bill also includes strong safeguards to protect taxpayers and uphold immigration laws. State-sponsored visa holders would be ineligible for federal means-tested benefits, would be subject to all applicable federal, state, and local labor and tax laws, and could lose their status if they violate program requirements or leave the sponsoring state without authorization.",1,2026-08-04T07:35:49Z,2026-08-04T07:37:27Z
https://www.lee.senate.gov/2026/8/lee-bill-fixes-loophole-for-adoptive-families,Lee Bill Fixes Loophole for Adoptees of American Families,2026-08-03,2026,2026-08,Republican,Senate,UT,Mike Lee,L000577,www.lee.senate.gov,mikelee,https://www.lee.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) introduced legislation with Senator Rick Scott (R-FL) closing burdensome loopholes for America’s adoptive families. The bill updates adoptee citizenship protocols in alignment with established law to grant citizenship for adopted children of American parents.

“Established law provides America’s adopted kids with naturalization, but a loophole has excluded those who were over 18 when this policy was passed decades ago. This bill will fix this oversight to bring these adopted Americans into accordance with the law and close the loopholes afflicting established families,” said Senator Mike Lee.

“Adoption is a wonderful thing. It gives children a loving family, opportunity, and hope for a better life. It often saves unborn lives. If you are adopted by American parents, grow up American, and love America, you are American. However, the law is not currently written to reflect that reality,” said Senator Rick Scott. “Adopted children of American parents should also be Americans, and there should be no legal hurdles to getting there. I’m proud to join Senator Lee in his effort to correct this issue.”

The legislation is endorsed by eighteen organizations and individuals: Adoptee Advisory Committee, Adoptees for Children, Adoptees Supporting Adoptee Citizenship, Adoptive Parents for Citizenship, Advisory Committee for Intercounty Adoption, American Academy of Adoptions Attorneys (AAAA), Barker Foundation, Care for Children International, China Children Adoption International (CCAI), Dr. Ron Federici, Holt International, Hope Leads Home, Diane Kunz, Lifeline Children’s Services, National Center for Adoption Law & Policy, National Council for Adoption (NCFA), Pono Roots, and Mission to Promote Adoption in Korea (MPAK).

""Holt International applauds Senator Lee for his leadership and determination to move adoptee citizenship legislation forward. His commitment to finding a path that can make meaningful progress in Congress is an important step for thousands of intercountry adoptees who have lived for years without the security and recognition of U.S. citizenship.” — Mark Loux, Interim President & CEO, Holt International

""This legislation would correct a longstanding inequity. It reflects the fundamental principle that children legally adopted by American citizens should enjoy the same security and legal status as other members of their families. Providing citizenship to these adoptees promotes family stability, recognizes the commitments made by adoptive families, and remedies an unintended consequence of earlier legislation and regulations. It is both a matter of fairness and an affirmation of America's longstanding support for permanent family placement for children in need. We are grateful that you have introduced this legislation and look forward to working toward its prompt enactment."" – Janna Annest, President, and Genie Miller Gillespie, Adoption Policy Director, American Academy of Adoption & Assisted Reproduction Attorneys (AAAA)

""I'm grateful for Senator Lee's leadership in introducing this important legislation. For decades, international adoptees have played an invaluable part in the flourishing of our communities. Thousands of American parents have welcomed them into their families, and provided safe, loving and permanent homes for the world's most vulnerable children. This bill provides a legal remedy for the sons and daughters of U.S. citizens who were left in the gap of legal uncertainty."" – Herbert M. Newell IV, President & Executive Director, Lifeline Children’s Services

Background

Congress granted naturalization to international adoptees of U.S. citizen parents through the Child Citizenship Act of 2000, but thousands of legally adopted children were left out due to an arbitrary age cutoff. This technicality has resulted in continuous legal issues for a group whose only disqualifying characteristic was their date of birth. Senator Lee’s bill corrects this loophole for America’s adoptive families by providing naturalization to those adopted by U.S. citizens decades ago.

The bill grants automatic citizenship to individuals who were legally adopted by U.S. parents but were over 18 when the Child Citizenship Act of 2000 took effect. Specifically, the bill instructs the Secretary of Homeland Security to issue a certificate of citizenship if adoptees establish through an application that their adoption was lawfully completed, that they resided in the legal physical custody of their U.S. citizen adoptive parents, that they have not committed serious criminal offenses, and that they meet other standard criteria under the INA.

Read the full bill text here.

Read the full letter of endorsement from AAAA here.

###",1,2026-08-04T07:35:49Z,2026-08-04T07:37:27Z
https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-kelly-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-modernize-rural-road-mapping-improve-public-safety,"Curtis, Kelly Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Modernize Rural Road Mapping, Improve Public Safety",2026-07-31,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,UT,John R. Curtis,C001114,www.curtis.senate.gov,curtis,https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT) and Mark Kelly (D-AZ) introduced the Modernizing Access to Public Roads (MAP Roads) Act, bipartisan legislation to help states and counties digitize local road networks, improve navigation, strengthen emergency response, and support rural commerce.

“Too many county road maps still exist only on paper or in outdated systems. That creates unnecessary challenges for first responders, businesses, and families who rely on accurate navigation every day,” said Senator Curtis. “The MAP Roads Act modernizes local infrastructure, giving rural Utahns and recreationists the tools they need to improve public safety and support economic growth.”

“Arizona has millions of acres of public land, but outdated paper maps make it harder and less safe to navigate them,” said Senator Kelly. “Arizonans rely on accurate road data every day, whether they’re traveling, running a business, or accessing essential services. Visitors also depend on it to safely explore our incredible public lands. This bipartisan bill brings these records into the 21st century, improving safety, access, and navigation for everyone.”

“The lack of publicly accessible and accurate county road map information is a key barrier for hunters and anglers trying to access public lands,” said Joel Webster, Chief Conservation Officer, Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership. “The bipartisan, bicameral MAP Roads Act will provide resources to address these mapping shortfalls and improve public access, resulting in reduced confusion for hunters and anglers trying to navigate rural road systems across America. TRCP applauds Senator Curtis and Senator Kelly for their leadership on this bill.”

“Access is essential to conserving our hunting traditions and connecting people with the upland habitats that make those traditions possible,” said Ariel Wiegard, Vice President of Government Relations, Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever. “The bipartisan MAP Roads Act will modernize county road records, giving hunters greater confidence as they access public lands while reducing confusion and inadvertent trespass. We thank the Senate sponsors for advancing this commonsense, bipartisan solution that benefits hunters, conservation, and rural communities.”

“Accurate and accessible maps are fundamental to ensuring Americans can safely and confidently access our public lands and waters,”said Kaden McArthur, Congressional Affairs Director, Trout Unlimited. “We thank Senators Curtis and Kelly for their leadership on the MAP Roads Act, which will modernize outdated public road information and make it easier for anglers and other outdoor recreators to find reliable, legal access to rivers, streams, and other public destinations. By improving the accuracy and availability of these maps, this bipartisan legislation will help people spend less time navigating road systems and more time enjoying the outdoors.”

Background:

The MAP Roads Act would:

Establish a Department of Transportation pilot grant program to help states digitize county road data;

Provide subgrants for counties to convert paper maps and outdated records into standardized geospatial datasets;

Create statewide, publicly accessible road repositories that distinguish public and private roads and integrate with third-party mapping platforms;

Improve navigation, emergency response, and rural commerce through more accurate and accessible road information; and

Preserve existing state and local authority over road ownership, jurisdiction, and public access while protecting sensitive archaeological and historic resource data.

The bill establishes a competitive grant pilot program at the U.S. Department of Transportation to help counties convert outdated paper maps and records into standardized digital geospatial data. States would maintain publicly accessible road repositories that are compatible with modern mapping platforms and regularly updated. The legislation authorizes $20 million annually through Fiscal Year 2031 for the pilot program, with participating states reporting on implementation and progress to help evaluate future expansion.

Companion legislation has been introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by Representatives Blake Moore (R-UT), Val Hoyle (D-OR), Jeff Hurd (R-CO), and Susie Lee (D-NV).",1,2026-08-01T07:27:26Z,2026-08-01T07:28:22Z
https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/opinion-i-wont-change-the-filibuster,Opinion: I Won’t Change the Filibuster,2026-07-31,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,UT,John R. Curtis,C001114,www.curtis.senate.gov,curtis,https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"It protects the rights of the minority in the Senate—even when it’s a minority of one

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator John Curtis (R-UT) authored an opinion piece in The Wall Street Journal reaffirming his commitment to preserving the Senate filibuster, arguing that it ensures consistent, long-term policy making; protects the rights of the minority; and encourages consensus building rather than top-down rule.

“…[The] question isn’t simply whether more legislation would pass. It is whether prudence would still be required in lawmaking, whether legislation passed in one Congress would remain law in the next,” Senator Curtis writes. “Under no circumstance will I support any effort to end or alter the filibuster, as any party that does so wouldn’t be guaranteed survival. Their agenda would be guaranteed death come the next majority.”

In the piece, Senator Curtis explains that the filibuster is not merely a procedural rule, but a defining feature of the Senate’s role as a deliberative body. He argues that while the filibuster has evolved over time, its central purpose remains the same: ensuring legislation is durable, broadly supported, and the product of negotiation rather than fleeting political majorities.

Senator Curtis is a cosponsor of the SAVE America Act and has previously voted in support of the legislation. His views on the filibuster are longstanding and are not tied to the passage of any specific legislation.",1,2026-08-01T07:27:26Z,2026-08-01T07:28:22Z
https://www.lee.senate.gov/2026/7/lee-introduces-ban-on-federal-funding-for-child-mutilation-studies,Lee Introduces Ban on Federal Funding for Child Mutilation Studies,2026-07-31,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,UT,Mike Lee,L000577,www.lee.senate.gov,mikelee,https://www.lee.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) introduced legislation to prohibit the use of federal funds for any research or publication promoting gender transitions for minors. The Protecting Our Kids from Harmful Research Act will shield American children from permanent medical and psychological damage, in line with President Trump’s agenda to keep tax dollars from child mutilation. The bill is cosponsored by Senators Ted Cruz (R-TX), Steve Daines (R-MT), James Lankford (R-OK), Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), and Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), and is endorsed by Students for Life Action and the American Principles Project.

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

“The Protecting Our Kids from Harmful Research Act takes the long-overdue step of prohibiting federal dollars from supporting procedures that involve dangerous, life-altering, and irreversible gender transition research on minors,” said Senator Ted Cruz. “I am proud to join Senator Lee in this effort, and I urge my colleagues to pass this commonsense legislation.”

“It’s critical that taxpayer dollars are never used to experiment on our children,” said Senator Steve Daines. “Gender-transition procedures are irreversible, potentially life-threatening, and a form of child abuse. I’m proud to co-sponsor this bill with Senator Lee to keep our children safe from harm.”

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

“Taxpayers should not be spending a penny on research done by those who want to push harmful gender transition surgeries and radical gender ideology on our kids,” said Senator Marsha Blackburn. “The Protecting Our Kids from Harmful Research Act would prohibit the use of federal funds for any research or study on gender transition surgeries for minors.”

“For years, our tax dollars have funded research that experiments on children using treatments proven to cause irreversible harm. That ends today,” said Senator Cynthia Lummis. “Washington has no business bankrolling the radical left’s agenda and calling it medicine, especially when it's our kids on the receiving end. Children deserve to be protected from ideology, not used as subjects for it, and this bill will ensure that the federal government doesn’t fund such experimentation.""

“Thousands of America’s children have fallen prey to the Radical Left’s woke gender ideology,” said Senator Tommy Tuberville. “American families have been lied to for far too long as we know these surgeries cause irreversible harm. Subjecting healthy, developing children to damaging and harmful procedures without a grave medical purpose is BEYOND SICKENING. Taxpayers shouldn’t be forced to pay for these extreme and reckless practices, or any of the left-wing propaganda promoting them. This vile attack on our children ends now with President Trump and his team. I’m proud to join Senator Lee in this crucial bill to stop the abuse of America’s children and enforce the President’s pro-family agenda.”

""Students for Life Action will always stand for children, born and preborn, protecting them from the harmful abortion industry and their new moneymaker, sterilizing drugs and surgeries. The abortion industry doesn't care what happens to children, as long as they never hold a child of their own. The Protecting Our Kids from Harmful Research Act would protect children from this growing industry that is anti-child and anti-life. Students for Life Action stands with Senator Lee and the Protecting Our Kids from Harmful Research Act."" – Kristan Hawkins, President, Students for Life of America and Students for Life Action

“The $4.5 billion Transgender Industrial Complex relies on pseudo-science to justify the sexual mutilation of children. Americans should never foot the bill for 'research' that permanently destroys kids' healthy bodies. The Protecting Our Kids from Harmful Research Act provides commonsense protections to the family and to taxpayers. American Principles Project is proud to work with Sen. Lee on its passage.” – Terry Schilling, President, American Principles Project

The Protecting Our Kids from Harmful Research Act:

Prohibits the use of federal funds for any research, observational study, or publication, relating to gender transitions in individuals under the age of 18, which is conducted for the purpose of affirming a minor’s asserted identity or perception of his or her sex, if such is incongruent with the minor’s biological sex.",1,2026-08-01T07:27:26Z,2026-08-01T07:28:22Z
https://mikekennedy.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-kennedy-harshbarger-co-lead-legislation-hold-insurance-companies,"Rep. Kennedy, Harshbarger Co-Lead Legislation to Hold Insurance Companies Accountable for Sex-Rejecting Procedure Harms",2026-07-30,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,UT,Mike Kennedy,K000403,mikekennedy.house.gov,mikekennedy,https://mikekennedy.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Congressman Kennedy (UT-03) joined, Congresswoman Harshbarger (R-TN) today in leading the Treatment and Restoration Uniformity and Transparency in Health Coverage (TRUTH in Coverage) Act, legislation requiring health insurance plans that cover sex-rejecting procedures to also cover restorative care for patients who suffer complications, adverse outcomes, or seek to restore healthy bodily function. Sen. Roger Marshall (R-KS) introduced companion legislation in the Senate.

“As both a physician and a legislator, my primary commitment has consistently been the safety and well-being of individuals through common sense,” said Congressman Mike Kennedy. “ We are seeing a disturbing trend where radical ideologies have overtaken evidence-based medicine, causing irreversible and terrible damage. Insurance companies that paid for these procedures should be on the hook when the life-long complications arise.”

“It's outrageous that a health plan can cover sex-rejecting procedures but refuse to cover the restorative care patients need to address the harm they cause. That's not a fair deal for patients who want to restore healthy bodily function,” said Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger. “Patients should never be abandoned after undergoing life-altering, harmful medical interventions once reality sets in. As a pharmacist, I've seen insurance companies find every excuse in the book to avoid paying for the care patients actually need. My TRUTH in Coverage Act restores fairness, promotes transparency, and ensures patients aren't left paying the price for care their insurance should cover.”

“As physicians, we take an oath to first do no harm. Unfortunately, too many Americans have undergone irreversible gender transition procedures only to be left with life-changing complications and nowhere to turn,” said Senator Roger Marshall. “Insurance companies have been more than willing to profit by covering these procedures, but when patients need care to treat complications and restore healthy human function, they're often left on their own. That's wrong. Patients deserve transparency before making life-altering medical decisions, and insurance companies should be consistent in their coverage when those decisions result in lifelong complications.”

Across the country, many private health insurance companies have profited handsomely by covering sex-rejecting procedures that aim to alter a person’s biological and anatomical characteristics. Yet patients who later experience complications, adverse medical outcomes, or seek restorative treatment often discover that while their insurance covered the original sex-rejecting procedures, it refuses to cover the care needed to treat resulting injuries or restore healthy bodily function.

The TRUTH in Coverage Act establishes a uniform federal coverage standard across private insurance markets by amending the Public Health Service Act, the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA), and the Internal Revenue Code (IRC). The legislation applies not only to state-regulated health insurance plans but also to self-funded employer health plans governed by ERISA, ensuring protections for patients nationwide.

Under the bill, any health plan that elects to cover sex-rejecting procedures or is required to cover them by state or local law or regulation, must provide coverage for restorative care under terms that are no more restrictive than those applied to the original procedures. This includes deductibles, copayments, coinsurance, prior authorization requirements, and other treatment limitations.

The legislation does not require any health plan to cover sex-rejecting procedures. Rather, it ensures that if a plan provides such coverage, it must also cover healthcare to address the harm caused by these procedures, and to restore healthy human form and functioning, to the greatest extent practicable. The requirements would take effect for plan years beginning on or after January 1, 2027.

Reps. Brian Babin (R-TX), Sheri Biggs (R-SC), Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA), “Judge” John Carter (R-TX), Juan Ciscomani (R-AZ), Clay Fuller (R-GA), Abe Hamadeh (R-AZ), John McGuire (R-VA), Mary Miller (R-IL), Marlin Stutzman (R-IN), and Matt Van Epps (R-TN) join as original cosponsors. Sen. Lummis (R-WY) is an original cosponsor in the Senate.

Key Provisions:

Requires health plans that cover sex-rejecting procedures to also cover restorative care addressing resulting harms, regardless of when the original procedure occurred or which plan covered it.

Prohibits insurers from imposing separate, more restrictive cost-sharing or treatment limitations on restorative care than those applicable to the original procedures.

Defines restorative care broadly to include treatment for reproductive injury, endocrine dysfunction, cardiovascular and metabolic complications, surgical complications, mental health conditions, and other harms tied to sex-rejecting procedures.

Preserves exceptions for treatment of documented disorders of sex development, emergency medical care, treatment of precocious puberty, and male circumcision. Establishes a uniform federal standard applicable to both state-regulated health insurance markets and ERISA self-funded employer health plans.",1,2026-07-31T07:49:23Z,2026-07-31T07:50:48Z
https://www.lee.senate.gov/2026/7/lee-kaine-paul-and-merkley-introduce-bipartisan-repeal-of-1957-authorization-of-military-force,"Lee, Kaine, Paul, and Merkley Introduce Bipartisan Repeal of 1957 Authorization of Military Force",2026-07-30,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,UT,Mike Lee,L000577,www.lee.senate.gov,mikelee,https://www.lee.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Mike Lee (R-UT), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Rand Paul (R-KY), and Jeff Merkley (D-OR) today introduced bipartisan legislation to repeal an obsolete Authorization for Use of Military Force (AUMF) dating back to 1957 under the Eisenhower Administration. Also known as the Middle East Force Resolution, the AUMF provides broad authority to use military force against countries in the Middle East in order to combat the influence of the Soviet Union. It has never been invoked but remains the longest-active AUMF.

“Outdated Congressional authorizations for military action should not sit on the books forever as a blank check; it is important to repeal the ones that have run their course,” said Senator Mike Lee. “Our bipartisan bill will clean the slate by repealing a Cold War-era AUMF in the Middle East that is no longer necessary.”

“When I was Governor of Virginia, I saw firsthand the human toll and costs of war on Americans, particularly our military families. That’s why I’ve fought to restore Congress’ role in decisions of war and peace since I came into the Senate,” said Senator Tim Kaine. “The 1957 AUMF, which has never been invoked, serves no purpose and runs the risk of potential misuse. We must repeal this outdated and unnecessary law and reaffirm our most solemn constitutional responsibility of whether to send our nation’s sons and daughters into war.”

""It is long past due for Congress to reclaim its constitutional duty regarding declarations of war,” said Senator Rand Paul. “This obsolete authorization for the use of military force dates back to 1957 and should be repealed to ensure deliberation and a vote before the men and women of the armed forces are placed in harm’s way.”

“Congress must repeal this decades-old authorization to prevent its misuse and reduce the risk of another costly and unnecessary forever war,” said Senator Jeff Merkley. “It is essential to restore Congressional power on questions of war as our Founders envisioned.”

Background

Bipartisan legislation to repeal the 1957 authorization has been introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by Congressmen Tom Barrett (R-MI-07) and Jared Golden (D-ME-02). In 2021, the U.S. House of Representatives voted 366-46 to repeal the 1957 AUMF.

Full text of the Senate legislation is available here.

###",1,2026-07-31T07:49:23Z,2026-07-31T07:50:48Z
https://mikekennedy.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-kennedy-and-rep-hayes-introduce-bill-improve-college-graduation-rate,"Rep. Kennedy, and Rep. Hayes Introduce Bill to Improve College Graduation Rate Transparency",2026-07-29,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,UT,Mike Kennedy,K000403,mikekennedy.house.gov,mikekennedy,https://mikekennedy.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Mike Kennedy (UT-03) and Congresswoman Jahana Hayes (CT-05) introduced the Time for Completion Act, legislation to ensure community colleges more accurately report graduation rates and provide increased transparency for students when selecting an academic institution. Under current law, community colleges and other higher education institutions are only required to report graduation rates for first-time, full-time students. Non-traditional students are often omitted in reporting, leading to critical data gaps.

According to theCommunity College Research Center, community colleges serve about 8.6 million students per year – or about 40% of all undergraduates. Current law excludes these students from reporting on graduation rates. The Time for Completion Act expands existing reporting requirements to ensure schools provide data on all student populations, including part-time and returning, students with disabilities, and others who are earning a full-time degree or certificate at community colleges. By including all students, community college reporting will more accurately reflect student success and allow students to better evaluate institutions of higher education.

“Students deserve the full picture when making a decision as important as choosing a college,” said Congressman Mike Kennedy. “Right now, official graduation rates leave out a large portion of community college students. The Time for Completion Act will ensure schools provide data on all student populations. Counting everyone’s success is a common-sense fix that helps students make more informed decisions, find their ideal institution, and have the best chance at success.”

“Selecting a college is one of the most consequential decisions a student can make. This decision should be guided by accurate and transparent information,” said Congresswoman Jahana Hayes. “Current data does not fully capture the range of student experiences and outcomes at community colleges, limiting the quality of information available to prospective students. The Time for Completion Act helps ensure students have a complete and more reliable picture of community college success so they can choose the institution that is right for them.”

“Now more than ever, students, parents, and policymakers need accurate, comprehensive data on college completion rates,” said Salt Lake Community College President President, Dr. Greg Peterson. “For too long, the success of community college students — in completing their studies and earning credentials, certificates, and degrees — has gone underreported. I commend Congressman Kennedy and Congresswoman Hayes for sponsoring the Time for Completion Act, which will bring greater transparency to graduation-rate reporting and ensure it truly reflects the achievements of community colleges and their students.”

“Utah’s community colleges play a crucial role in providing accessible, workforce-aligned education opportunities to all, especially for Utahns balancing college with work, parenting, and other responsibilities,” said Geoffrey Landward, Utah Commissioner of Higher Education. “Expanding the reporting timeline for completion data helps paint a clearer picture of the positive impact these institutions have on their communities and Utah’s broader economy and workforce.”

“The American Association of Community Colleges enthusiastically supports the Time for Completion Act,” said American Association of Community Colleges President and CEO, Dr. Derionne Pollard. “By providing a more accurate picture of community college student achievement, it allows metrics to better capture the progress that 10.5 million community college students in this country make every year. Not everyone follows the traditional four-year route to earning a college degree. Many do so while working, raising a family, or returning for a second career and their successes deserve to be recognized too.”

The Time for Completion Act has been endorsed by American Association of Community Colleges (AACC), Utah Systems of Higher Education (USHE), Salt Lake Community College (SLCC),.",1,2026-07-30T07:32:48Z,2026-07-30T07:34:08Z
https://maloy.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2113,Rep. Celeste Maloy Introduces the ATOMIC Act to Strengthen AI Nuclear Security,2026-07-29,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,UT,Celeste Maloy,M001228,maloy.house.gov,maloy,https://maloy.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"This week, Rep. Celeste Maloy (UT-02) introduced the bi-partisan AI Threat Output and Monitoring Incident Containment Act (ATOMIC Act), legislation directing the Department of Energy to establish a national program to evaluate the most advanced artificial intelligence systems for nuclear-related risks before those risks become national security incidents. The bill is being co-led by Rep. Sara Jacobs (CA-51).

The ATOMIC Act creates the Advanced Artificial Intelligence Nuclear Evaluation Program, which would leverage the Department of Energy's National Laboratories to test advanced AI systems for vulnerabilities such as generating sensitive nuclear information, bypassing safety guardrails, exhibiting deceptive behavior, or acting unpredictably in high-stakes environments. The program would also help develop practical containment protocols, mitigation strategies, and technical standards to address emerging AI-related nuclear threats.

“As AI capabilities continue to advance, we have a responsibility to understand the risks before they become real-world crises,"" said Rep. Maloy. ""The United States already has the world's leading nuclear security experts in our National Laboratories. This bill builds on that expertise to ensure we can identify emerging threats, strengthen safeguards, and have the information we need to make informed decisions about future AI policy.”

The legislation applies only to the largest developers of advanced AI systems, specifically those that have invested at least $2 billion in AI development over the previous five years. Covered developers would provide the secure access and technical information necessary for meaningful evaluations, while the bill includes strong protections to safeguard proprietary business information and trade secrets.

“No one wants another Three-Mile Island or any other major nuclear incident,” said Rep. Jacobs. “As AI becomes more powerful, we have a responsibility to identify and guard against new risks before they become real-world threats. That’s why I’m proud to co-lead the bipartisan ATOMIC Act to identify AI-related nuclear risks, establish safeguards, and develop mitigation plans. These common-sense guardrails are an important first step to help us harness AI for good while protecting against worst-case scenarios.”

Under the bill, the Department of Energy would provide Congress with an initial report within one year identifying trends, capabilities, and risks observed through the evaluation program, along with recommendations on whether additional legislation is warranted. Annual updates would continue throughout the program's seven-year duration.

The ATOMIC Act has been endorsed by the AI Policy Network.",1,2026-08-01T07:27:26Z,2026-08-01T07:28:22Z
https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-introduces-bill-to-strengthen-ftc-governance-promote-regulatory-stability,"Curtis Introduces Bill to Strengthen FTC Governance, Promote Regulatory Stability",2026-07-28,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,UT,John R. Curtis,C001114,www.curtis.senate.gov,curtis,https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Legislation would require a quorum of FTC Commissioners to undertake any major policymaking

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator John Curtis (R-UT) introduced the Federal Trade Commission Governance Reform Act, legislation to reinforce Congress’ original intent for the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to function as a deliberative, multi-member agency by requiring a quorum of at least three commissioners before the agency can undertake rulemaking or establish broadly applicable policy.

“When businesses are making long-term strategic decisions, they deserve confidence that major regulatory policy will be developed through a stable, collaborative process. This is why Congress designed the FTC to make major decisions through thoughtful deliberation, not by a single individual or a perpetually diminished Commission,” said Senator Curtis. “This legislation protects the governance structure Congress intended and strengthens confidence in the Commission’s decision making.”

Background:

Congress established the FTC as a five-member commission to ensure major competition and consumer protection policies are developed through collective deliberation. Under current law, the FTC can issue significant policy changes even when the Commission lacks a robust complement of sitting commissioners. The Federal Trade Commission Governance Reform Act reinforces Congress’ original intent by requiring at least three commissioners to participate in major policymaking decisions. By ensuring those decisions reflect the collective judgement of a Commission, the bill promotes regulatory predictability for businesses making long-term investment decisions.

The legislation would require a quorum of three commissioners in order for the FTC to:

Initiate, advance, rescind, or complete a rulemaking proceeding;

Adopt, amend, or rescind a policy statement, interpretive rule, industry guide, or enforcement policy statement; or

Take any other formal action establishing, revising, or rescinding generally applicable Commission policy.

The quorum requirement would not apply to case-specific enforcement actions or other Commission activities that do not establish generally applicable policy. The legislation would take effect on January 20, 2029.",1,2026-07-29T07:41:48Z,2026-07-29T07:42:57Z
https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-lauds-utah-selection-as-contender-for-nuclear-lifecycle-innovation-campus,Curtis Lauds Utah Selection as Contender for Nuclear Lifecycle Innovation Campus,2026-07-28,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,UT,John R. Curtis,C001114,www.curtis.senate.gov,curtis,https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator John Curtis (R-UT) today applauded the U.S. Department of Energy’s announcement selecting Utah as one of five states to advance as a potential host for a Nuclear Lifecycle Innovation Campus, a major initiative to strengthen America’s nuclear fuel supply chain, bolster energy security, and accelerate domestic nuclear innovation.

“Utah has earned a reputation as one of the nation’s leaders in advanced energy innovation, and today’s announcement is another vote of confidence in our state’s future,” said Senator Curtis. “This is an incredible opportunity to strengthen American energydominance, bolster our domestic nuclear supply chain, and create new high-paying jobs right here in Utah. I thank President Trump, Secretary Wright, Governor Cox, and everyone who helped make Utah a leading contender for this transformational project.”

Background:

The Department of Energy selected Utah alongside Tennessee, Oklahoma, Louisiana, and Idaho after reviewing applications from 26 states. The proposed campuses are expected to support the full nuclear fuel lifecycle—from fuel production and enrichment to advanced reactor deployment and manufacturing—while attracting significant private investment and creating thousands of high-paying jobs.

If selected, a Nuclear Lifecycle Innovation Campus could attract up to $50 billion in capital investment, generate as much as $10 billion in state and local tax revenue, and support nearly 25,000 jobs while advancing American nuclear capabilities.",1,2026-07-29T07:41:48Z,2026-07-29T07:42:57Z
https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/opinion-on-this-we-can-agree-lets-stop-wildfires,Opinion: On This We Can Agree: Let’s Stop Wildfires,2026-07-27,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,UT,John R. Curtis,C001114,www.curtis.senate.gov,curtis,https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Letter-to-the-Editor Submitted by U.S. Senator John Curtis (R-UT)

WASHINGTON—In a letter responding to the Wall Street Journal editorial, “Trump and Bernie, Political Smokejumpers,” U.S. Senator John Curtis (R-UT) argued that while the editorial correctly identifies American forest management failures, it overlooks the bipartisan legislative solutions already moving through Congress, including the Senator’s Fix Our Forests Act and Wildfire Emissions Prevention Act.

“We have neglected active forest management for far too long. Both parties share this blame. . . . But while you rightly criticize recent political finger-pointing, you fail to mention that bipartisan, turnkey solutions exist in this Congress,” Senator Curtis wrote.

“Cleaner air begins with better-managed forests. The support for these solutions proves that isn’t a Republican or a Democratic idea—it’s common sense. Yet, by our own doing, Washington is suffocating in the consequences of our own inaction,” the piece concludes.

Read the full letter to the editor here, and the original editorial here.

Background:

Utah fire seasons typically begin in July and end in October. Not even through the first month of the 2026 fire season, Utah has alreadyexperienced 651 total wildfires with over 380,000 acres burned in 2026—more than the past three years combined.",1,2026-07-28T07:37:32Z,2026-07-28T07:38:50Z
https://owens.house.gov/posts/owens-announces-changes-to-senior-staff,Owens Announces Changes to Senior Staff,2026-07-24,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,UT,Burgess Owens,O000086,owens.house.gov,owens,https://owens.house.gov/press,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Rep. Burgess Owens (UT-04) announced key changes to his senior leadership team.

Devon Murphy to Succeed Lee Lonsberry as Chief of Staff

After three years as Chief of Staff to Congressman Owens, Lee Lonsberry concluded his time on Capitol Hill, rounding out an incredibly successful and meaningful decade of service to Utah across three members of Congress in the House and Senate.

Succeeding him as Chief of Staff is Devon Murphy.

Murphy is a veteran of the Utah Army National Guard and a seasoned staffer with just under a decade of congressional experience, in both the state and Washington D.C . He began his service to Utah’s congressional delegation as Military Legislative Assistant to Rep. Rob Bishop and later served as Senior Policy Advisor to Rep. Blake Moore. He has since played a central role in advancing Congressman Owens’ legislative agenda, most recently as Deputy Chief of Staff and Legislative Director for the last three years.

“I am saddened to see my friend Lee Lonsberry leave, but I am excited for the bright future that he has ahead of him in his next chapter,” Rep. Owens said. “Lee has become one of Utah’s most trusted voices, from his time at KSL to his decade of dedicated and capable service to Utah and our nation in the Halls of Congress. His larger-than-life charisma and boundless energy all but ensured everyone who met him quickly became his friend. I’ve been incredibly grateful for the team we assembled, which has become an invaluable asset to the people of Utah’s Fourth District, and we’re excited to see him take those skills of service, patience, encouragement and that as a strategist into his next chapter. We know, as has been his last chapter, it will be a successful one.

“I am pleased to announce Devon Murphy as my new Chief of Staff,” Owens continued. “Devon is an exceptional staffer with deep knowledge of the House of Representatives and a genuine love for Utah and our nation. As my Legislative Director, he helped secure the most significant legislative wins of my career in Congress. He understands how to build a culture rooted in hard work, attention to detail, and hustle. Utah’s Fourth District is fortunate to have a public servant of his character and caliber. Devon has my full trust and confidence, and I know he will serve this office and this district well.”

“Mr. Owen’s story and his genuine love of people inspires everyone he meets,” Murphy said. “He is one of Congress’s most powerful communicators and, quite simply, one of its kindest people. It is the honor of a lifetime to serve him and Utah’s Fourth District during this final chapter in Washington and help secure an earned legacy of both kindness and as a serious legislator who made a meaningful difference in education, workforce development, and transportation.”

As Chief of Staff, Murphy will oversee office operations, lead the staff, and direct the strategy and execution of Congressman Owens’ priorities for his remaining time in Congress.

Cody Rowe Named Legislative Director

Rep. Owens has also announced that Cody Rowe has been promoted as his new Legislative Director. Rowe has been with the Owens’ office for the last four years where he has served as the Congressman’s Education & Workforce Legislative Assistant and Senior Legislative Advisor.

“I came to Congress to make a difference for our kids and work in education,” Rep. Owens said. “Cody has been an incredible asset as my Senior Legislative Assistant, where we have secured incredible wins for our youth and educational choice and freedom. Cody has put in the effort to command the respect of those inside and outside my office. I am proud of his hustle and work ethic, which has brought him this far. He was the only choice to fill the position as my new Legislative Director, as we continue to work towards securing a new golden age for our children.”

“I cannot express how grateful I am for the chance to serve the people of Utah in a greater capacity,” Rowe said. “I will strive to achieve wins for Utah’s Fourth District and support Congressman Owens in his duties as an elected official of the people.”

In his expanded role as Legislative Director, Rowe will continue to oversee Congressman Owens’ work on the Education & Workforce Committee while serving as the Congressman’s principal advisor on legislative matters. He will coordinate policy strategy and ensure that Rep. Owens’ vision and priorities are carried out.

Colby Walker Remains Communications Director

Colby Walker will remain in his role serving as Congressman Owens’ Communications Director. He started in the role in January after serving as Sen. Mike Lee’s State Communications Specialist since 2021. Before his time in Congress, Walker worked as a digital content producer for KSL News in Salt Lake City.

“Colby has been an incredible addition to our team, and I have been pleased with his efforts in amplifying and communicating the important work for Utah and our nation that we are doing,” Rep. Owens said. “He has quickly grown into this role and become an invaluable and trusted asset to my team.”

“Every day, I continue to be humbled by the trust that Congressman Owens has placed in me to help tell his story and communicate the incredible work he is doing,” Walker said. “As our nation continues to celebrate our 250th anniversary of independence, I’m grateful to be in our nation’s capital, working for an incredible boss, helping ensure that we continue to fight for our Republic and the ideals and principles that have created the greatest nation in the history of mankind.”

As Communications Director, Walker will continue to oversee all communications strategy, media relations, and messaging for the Owens office.

Members of the press should continue to direct all media inquiries and interview requests to him at colby.walker@mail.house.gov.

###",1,2026-07-24T07:30:11Z,2026-07-24T07:31:13Z
https://blakemoore.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-blake-moore-introduces-legislation-to-enhance-investment-accounts-for-foster-youth,Congressman Blake Moore Introduces Legislation to Enhance Investment Accounts for Foster Youth,2026-07-24,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,UT,Blake D. Moore,M001213,blakemoore.house.gov,blakemoore,https://blakemoore.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Blake Moore introduced the Foster Youth Investment Act to help children in foster care build long-term financial security through Trump Accounts. This legislation adds foster youth as an eligible qualifying class, allowing philanthropic organizations and states to maximize impact and contributions directly to foster youth with no contribution limit.

“Last year, I was proud to lead legislation that created Trump Accounts, setting up the next generation for financial success. I am excited to now introduce the Foster Youth Investment Act to maximize the impact of these accounts for foster youth and build on First Lady Melania Trump’s Fostering the Future initiative,” Congressman Moore said. ""The American Dream belongs to every child, including—and especially—our foster youth. This bill will provide the opportunity for states and philanthropic organizations to directly impact foster youth well into their future.”

Proposed by Congressman Moore and created by the Working Families Tax Cuts, Trump Accounts are investment accounts available to every single American child. The program includes a $1,000 federal contribution for newborns born in the years 2025-2028 that will jumpstart their savings. Family, friends, and employers can contribute directly to a child’s Trump Account up to a total of $5,000 annually. Currently, states and philanthropic organizations can contribute without a financial limitation to children in a qualifying class dependent on geographic location and age.

While children in foster care are eligible for their own Trump Account, they are not currently designated as a qualifying class, limiting state and philanthropic options to contribute to foster youth. The Foster Youth Investment Act removes these barriers, allowing eligible organizations to give directly to children in foster care.

Background:

The Foster Youth Investment Act builds upon First Lady Melania Trump’s historic launch of Fostering the Future Accounts, which enable youth who have experienced foster care to obtain their own dedicated investment and savings accounts.

In the 118th Congress, Congressman Moore’s legislation, the Court Improvement Program Enhancement Act, was signed into law. This law allows funds to be used for technological improvements to provide timely foster care and adoption hearings during public health crises, natural disasters, and other instances that would otherwise delay proceedings.

Earlier this year, Congressman Moore helped to introduce the GRACIE Act, which aims to financially support states that voluntarily choose to record official Child Protective Service interviews. In the 117th Congress, Congressman Moore introduced the Connecting Forever Families Act, legislation to strengthen and improve resources available to the foster care system and help children find supportive homes.

Read the full bill here.

###",1,2026-07-25T07:13:44Z,2026-07-25T07:15:09Z
https://blakemoore.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-blake-moores-bill-to-protect-the-tax-exempt-status-of-religious-organizations-passes-committee,Congressman Blake Moore's Bill to Protect the Tax-Exempt Status of Religious Organizations Passes Committee,2026-07-24,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,UT,Blake D. Moore,M001213,blakemoore.house.gov,blakemoore,https://blakemoore.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Blake Moore’s legislation to protect religious beliefs and practices and preserve the tax-exempt status of faith-based organizations passed the Ways and Means Committee.

The Fair Treatment of Religious Organizations Act ensures that faith-based organizations can continue applying religious standards to employees without jeopardizing their eligibility for federal funding and contracts. The legislation prevents federal agencies from conditioning tax benefits or funding eligibility on a religious organization’s willingness to modify its positions on marriage, sexuality, or gender identity.

Additional co-sponsors of the bill include Representatives Ben Cline (VA-06), Claudia Tenney (NY-24), Nathaniel Moran (TX-01), Lance Gooden (TX-05), Burgess Owens (UT-04), Mike Kennedy (UT-03), Glenn Grothman (WI-06), Tracey Mann (KS-01), Greg Steube (FL-17), and Celeste Maloy (UT-02).

“I’m immensely proud to represent one of the most religious and charitable states in the nation—and that overlap is no coincidence. Churches across our state and country contribute billions of dollars to the economy by providing health care, housing, and a wide range of social services. They also strengthen our communities by helping Americans find purpose and meaning,” Congressman Moore said. “The Fair Treatment of Religious Organizations Act protects religious beliefs and practices and prevents the government from weaponizing tax-exempt status or federal funding eligibility against these organizations.”

“Faith-based organizations should not have their tax-exempt status threatened by federal regulators that disagree with one set of religious beliefs or another,” said Ways and Means Committee Chairman Jason Smith (MO-08). “Representative Moore’s legislation is a proactive, principled defense of a basic Constitutionally protected freedom in America. I commend him for leading the charge on ensuring our government does not infringe on religious liberty.”

Background:

In 2025, the Trump administration initiated an IRS investigation to revoke the tax-exempt status of Harvard University, due in part to fostering an environment of antisemitism. The administration argued that the university should be required to follow its executive orders, including E.O. 14188, “Additional Measures to Combat Anti-Semitism,” and froze $2.2 billion in the university’s federal grants and contracts. Regardless of the substance of the Harvard legal battle, these actions have created concern in the faith-based community. Future administrations could attempt to revoke the tax-exempt status of faith-based organizations over their adherence or non-adherence to executive orders that pertain to marriage and sexuality.

For example, a future administration could reinstate former President Obama’s E.O. 13672, which protected federal contractors from discrimination in employment based on sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) and attempted to strip a faith-based organization’s tax-exempt status or federal funding due to non-adherence to the executive order.

In addition, in Bostock v. Clayton County (2020), the Supreme Court held that Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits employment discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. Justice Gorsuch’s majority opinion acknowledged the tension this ruling would create with religious employers: “We are also deeply concerned with preserving the promise of the free exercise of religion enshrined in our Constitution; that guarantee lies at the heart of our pluralistic society.” The opinion noted that Title VII’s existing religious employer exemptions, the Religious Freedom Restoration Act (RFRA), and the First Amendment could provide defenses in future cases involving religious organizations.

While the decision acknowledged the importance of religious liberty, Bostock left religious organizations in legal uncertainty—their traditional beliefs and practices on human sexuality and marriage now potentially characterized as a form of sex discrimination under federal law with the promised protections relegated to undefined future cases and the goodwill of federal officials in future administrations. Following the decision, federal agencies have moved to apply Bostock’s reasoning beyond the employment context, extending SOGI protections to education (Title IX), healthcare (Section 1557 of the Affordable Care Act), housing (Fair Housing Act), and federal contracting requirements.

These regulatory expansions have heightened concerns among religious organizations that their eligibility for federal partnerships and tax benefits may become contingent on abandoning sincerely held religious convictions regarding human sexuality and marriage.

The Fair Treatment of Religious Organizations Act provides the concrete statutory protections that Bostock’s dicta suggested but did not deliver. Rather than leaving religious organizations dependent on case-by-case litigation or shifting administrative interpretations, the bill establishes clear, enforceable standards ensuring that religious beliefs and practices concerning marriage, sexuality, and gender identity cannot be weaponized to strip organizations of their tax-exempt status or federal funding eligibility.

The Fair Treatment of Religious Organizations Act:

Amends Section 501 of the Internal Revenue Code to prohibit the IRS from considering a religious organization’s beliefs or practices concerning marriage, sexuality, or gender identity when making tax-related determinations.

Protections extend to tax-exempt status under 501(c); eligibility to receive tax-deductible charitable contributions; and any other federal benefit or privilege tied to tax-exempt charitable status.

An organization’s religious beliefs on these matters cannot be used against them even if those beliefs are otherwise inconsistent with public policy.",1,2026-07-25T07:13:44Z,2026-07-25T07:15:09Z
https://owens.house.gov/posts/rep-owens-introduces-path-act-to-level-playing-field-on-transit-funding,Rep Owens Introduces PATH Act to Level Playing Field on Transit Funding,2026-07-23,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,UT,Burgess Owens,O000086,owens.house.gov,owens,https://owens.house.gov/press,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Reps. Burgess Owens (R-UT-04), Mike Kennedy (R-UT-03), Dina Titus (D-NV-01), and Greg Stanton (D-AZ-04) introduced the Promoting Access to Transit in High-Growth Communities Act (PATH Act), bipartisan legislation that would reform the federal formula used to award major transit construction grants so that fast-growing states like Utah can compete on a level playing field.

The bill amends title 49 of the United States Code to allow the Federal Transit Administration to factor population growth rate and local transit-oriented development planning, alongside current ridership, into eligibility determinations under the agency’s Capital Investment Grant (CIG) program. A Senate companion bill has also been introduced by U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT) and Mark Kelly (D-AZ).

“The PATH Act is a commonsense, bipartisan fix to a broken formula. For too long, federal transit dollars have gone to big cities that grew a century ago, funding the upkeep of infrastructure they already have, while fast-growing states like Utah were left fighting for scraps. This bill fixes that formula and levels the playing field. It ensures that states like ours, which have seen record growth and had the foresight to plan for it, can compete for limited federal dollars and put them to work on projects that will have long-lasting and meaningful impacts.”

Congressman Burgess Owens

“Southern Nevada is one of the fastest-growing regions in the country. By ensuring that population forecasts are taken into account in infrastructure investments such as commuter rail, streetcars, and rapid bus transit, the PATH Act will help transit agencies make vital investments to accommodate this growth.”

Congresswoman Dina Titus – Ranking Member, Highways and Transit Subcommittee

“I have the privilege of representing one of the fastest-growing districts in America, and our infrastructure needs are growing just as quickly. The PATH Act modernizes how we evaluate transit projects by recognizing population growth and future development rather than relying solely on existing density. That’s a common-sense fix, and for Utah and other fast-growing states, it means a fair shot at the resources we need to build for the future.”

Congressman Mike Kennedy

“Fast-growing communities should be rewarded for planning ahead. Under the current evaluation framework for the Federal Transit Administration’s Capital Investment Grant Program, many communities must wait until population growth, traffic congestion, and transit demand have already materialized before they can effectively compete for major transit capital investments. The Promoting Access to Transit in High-Growth Communities (PATH) Act modernizes that approach by allowing projected population growth and local transit-oriented development planning to be considered when determining project eligibility. UTA is grateful to Congressman Burgess Owens, Senator John Curtis, and the bipartisan cosponsors for their leadership in advancing this common-sense legislation, which will help rapidly growing regions like Utah’s Wasatch Front build the transit infrastructure needed to support future generations.”

Jay Fox, Executive Director, Utah Transit Authority

“For decades, Utah has pursued a deliberate strategy of coordinating transportation investments, land-use planning, and transit-oriented development to create thriving population centers connected by high-quality transit. That approach has helped our region prepare for continued growth while addressing challenges such as traffic congestion, air quality, and housing affordability. The Promoting Access to Transit in High-Growth Communities (PATH) Act recognizes the value of that planning by allowing communities that have done the hard work of preparing for future growth to compete more effectively for federal transit funding through the Federal Transit Administration’s Capital Investment Grant Program. We appreciate Congressman Burgess Owens, Senator John Curtis, and their bipartisan colleagues for championing legislation that will empower fast-growing communities across the country to build transit systems before growth outpaces infrastructure.”

Andrew Gruber, Executive Director, Wasatch Front Regional Council

The PATH Act amends Section 5309 of Title 49, United States Code, which governs the FTA’s fixed-guideway Capital Investment Grant program, the primary source of federal funding for new and expanded transit systems.

The PATH Act allows the FTA to update its ridership forecasting methods for the Capital Investment Grant (CIG) program to also account for population growth rate and transit-oriented development planning, giving fast-growing regions credit for the growth headed their way, not just the growth already behind them. Currently, CIG dollars tend to flow to regions with existing high ridership, leaving out fast-growing areas that haven’t yet caught up.

This change would let states like Utah, which have spent years planning for growth and coordinating land use and transit, better compete for these dollars, funding projects like double-tracking the FrontRunner, which will cut wait times between trains in half, double ridership capacity, and give working families a faster, more reliable commute.",1,2026-07-24T07:30:11Z,2026-07-24T07:31:13Z
https://owens.house.gov/posts/rep-owens-secures-major-win-for-camp-williams-and-defense-in-ndaa,Rep. Owens Secures Major Win for Camp Williams and Defense in NDAA,2026-07-23,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,UT,Burgess Owens,O000086,owens.house.gov,owens,https://owens.house.gov/press,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Rep. Burgess Owens applauded the inclusion of his Utah National Guard Legacy Railroad Land Conveyance Act into the base text of the NDAA as well as an amendment that advances the Army’s efforts to provide aviation platforms with modern battlefield communications capabilities.

Included in the NDAA was Rep. Owens’ H.R. 8384, the Utah National Guard Legacy Railroad Land Conveyance Act, which conveys three parcels of federal property within Camp Williams to the Utah National Guard. The three narrow parcels account for approximately 15 acres of land that were intended for the construction of a railroad that was never completed.

Those parcels, which were landlocked and bisected much of Camp Williams, limited access, operational efficiency, and long-term planning for the Guard. Formally transferring the deed to the state will repurpose this unused federal land into a functional asset for military training and readiness activities. This bill was supported by the Utah Defense Alliance and Utah National Guard.

“I am grateful that my Utah National Guard Legacy Railroad Land Conveyance Act was included in this year’s NDAA. This common-sense fix streamlines the management of land on Camp Williams so that the men and women of the Utah National Guard can fully utilize their facilities.”

Congressman Burgess Owens

###",1,2026-07-24T07:30:11Z,2026-07-24T07:31:13Z
https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-kelly-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-improve-transit-funding-for-fast-growing-communities,"Curtis, Kelly Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Improve Transit Funding for Fast-Growing Communities",2026-07-23,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,UT,John R. Curtis,C001114,www.curtis.senate.gov,curtis,https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT) and Mark Kelly (D-AZ) introduced the Promoting Access to Transit in High-Growth Communities (PATH) Act, bipartisan legislation to modernize how the federal government evaluates transit projects seeking funding through the Federal Transit Administration’s (FTA) Capital Investment Grants (CIG) program. Companion legislation was introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by Representatives Burgess Owens (R-UT), Mike Kennedy (R-UT), Dina Titus (D-NV), and Greg Stanton (D-AZ).

“Communities across Utah are growing faster than ever, and our transportation planning needs to reflect where people are headed—not just where they live today,” said Senator Curtis. “The PATH Act gives fast-growing regions a fairer opportunity to compete for federal transit investments by recognizing future demand alongside current conditions. Better forecasting means better infrastructure decisions, less congestion, and stronger communities.”

“Arizona is one of the fastest‑growing states, but federal transit funding ignores that reality. This bill changes that by making population growth a factor when federal dollars are awarded,” said Senator Kelly.

“The PATH Act is a commonsense, bipartisan fix to a broken formula. For too long, federal transit dollars have gone to big cities that grew a century ago, funding the upkeep of infrastructure they already have, while fast-growing states like Utah were left fighting for scraps,” said Representative Owens. “This bill fixes that formula and levels the playing field. It ensures that states like ours, which have seen record growth and had the foresight to plan for it, can compete for limited federal dollars and put them to work on projects that will have long-lasting and meaningful impacts.”

“I have the privilege of representing one of the fastest-growing districts in America, and our infrastructure needs are growing just as quickly,” said Representative Kennedy. “The PATH Act modernizes how we evaluate transit projects by recognizing population growth and future development rather than relying solely on existing density. That’s a common-sense fix, and for Utah and other fast-growing states, it means a fair shot at the resources we need to build for the future.”

“Southern Nevada is one of the fastest growing regions in the country,” said Representative Titus. “By ensuring that population forecasts are taken into account in infrastructure investments such as commuter rail, streetcars, and rapid bus transit, the PATH Act will help transit agencies make vital investments to accommodate this growth.”

“Phoenix is one of the fastest-growing regions in the country, and Arizonans feel the strain on our roads and transit every day,” said Representative Stanton. “Too often, federal funding formulas reward where growth happened decades ago instead of where it is happening right now. The PATH Act fixes that. It gives communities like ours a fair shot to compete for the investments we need to build transit that keeps pace with our growth. I am proud to join this bipartisan effort to make sure Arizona families are not left behind.”

“Fast-growing communities should be rewarded for planning ahead. Under the current evaluation framework for the Federal Transit Administration’s Capital Investment Grant Program, many communities must wait until population growth, traffic congestion, and transit demand have already materialized before they can effectively compete for major transit capital investments,” said Jay Fox, Executive Director, Utah Transit Authority (UTA). “The PATH Act modernizes that approach by allowing projected population growth and local transit-oriented development planning to be considered when determining project eligibility. UTA is grateful to Congressman Burgess Owens, Senator John Curtis, and the bipartisan cosponsors for their leadership in advancing this common-sense legislation, which will help rapidly growing regions like Utah’s Wasatch Front build the transit infrastructure needed to support future generations.”

“For decades, Utah has pursued a deliberate strategy of coordinating transportation investments, land-use planning, and transit-oriented development to create thriving population centers connected by high-quality transit,”said Andrew Gruber, Executive Director, Wasatch Front Regional Council (WFRC). “That approach has helped our region prepare for continued growth while addressing challenges such as traffic congestion, air quality, and housing affordability. The PATH Act recognizes the value of that planning by allowing communities that have done the hard work of preparing for future growth to compete more effectively for federal transit funding through the Federal Transit Administration’s Capital Investment Grant Program. We appreciate Congressman Burgess Owens, Senator John Curtis, and their bipartisan colleagues for championing legislation that will empower fast-growing communities across the country to build transit systems before growth outpaces infrastructure.”

Background

Current federal transit funding evaluations rely heavily on existing population density and ridership, which can disadvantage rapidly growing communities where infrastructure has not yet caught up with population growth. The PATH Act allows the FTA to incorporate additional forecasting methods when evaluating a project’s future ridership and overall justification.

The legislation updates the evaluation criteria for projects applying for funding under the CIG program by allowing ridership forecasts to consider:

Population growth rates, in addition to population density;

The population measure that best reflects a project’s future ridership potential;

Current transit ridership in the project corridor; and

Local development planning activities that demonstrate future growth.

By modernizing these forecasting methods, the PATH Act aims to ensure federal transit investments better reflect the needs of communities experiencing rapid growth and significant new development.",1,2026-07-24T07:30:11Z,2026-07-24T07:31:13Z
https://www.lee.senate.gov/2026/7/lee-introduces-protect-act-to-shield-kids-from-explicit-content,Lee Introduces PROTECT Act to Prevent Online Child Exploitation,2026-07-23,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,UT,Mike Lee,L000577,www.lee.senate.gov,mikelee,https://www.lee.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) introduced legislation to shield children and other victims of sexual abuse from exploitation online. The Preventing Rampant Online Technological and Criminal Trafficking (PROTECT) Act requires platforms with explicit material to take reasonable steps to verify the age and consent of individuals who upload or appear in the content, while remaining consistent with First Amendment jurisprudence.

“Pornography sites need to do more to prevent the rampant child exploitation that is occurring on their platforms. The PROTECT Act is a step in that direction,” said Senator Mike Lee. “This bill will verify the ages and consent of the people appearing in explicit content – stopping abusive material from ever getting uploaded in the first place.”

Background

The online pornography market has quickly become one of the most lucrative industries, but much of the material in circulation is the product of sex trafficking and child exploitation. Though law enforcement diligently investigates and prosecutes individuals who distribute child sexual abuse material (CSAM), pornography platforms regularly fail to verify the age, identity, or consent of depicted individuals. This carelessness allows human traffickers and websites to profit from underage or non-consenting individuals forced or coerced to participate.

Senator Lee advocates for greater accountability in the online pornography market by proposing legislation that requires platforms to vet the content they distribute. Each safeguard imposed by the PROTECT Act creates an additional barrier to the circulation of exploitative material, reducing online sexual exploitation and image-based sexual abuse.

Why This Matters

Existing security measures demonstrate the technological and operational feasibility of implementing safeguards. Federal statutes such as 18 U.S.C. § 2257 prevent minors from appearing in sexually explicit material by mandating age verification and recordkeeping. Additionally, pornography platforms have begun incorporating independent compliance systems to protect the individuals whose content generates their profits. OnlyFans requires uploaders to present government-issued identification and complete facial recognition before distributing their content. Pornhub also requires uploaders to verify the identities of each individual featured in the content and provide corresponding consent documentation.

The PROTECT Act will shield children and victims from the distribution of nonconsensual or exploitative material that has previously circulated without oversight or intervention.

The PROTECT Act:

Requires pornography platforms to verify the age and identity of individuals uploading pornographic images. Failure to comply with this section would result in a $10,000 per day per image civil penalty and additional criminal penalties.

Require pornography platforms to verify that each individual appearing in uploaded content is (1) not a minor, (2) has provided written consent for each depicted sex act, and (3) has consented to the distribution of the content. Failure to follow these regulations results in civil penalties for both the uploader and the host platform of up to $10,000 per day per image and additional criminal penalties.

Require pornography platforms to reasonably engage in the fight against human trafficking by eliminating the ability of traffickers to upload and monetize nonconsensual content involving both children and adults on pornographic platforms.",1,2026-07-24T07:30:11Z,2026-07-24T07:31:13Z
https://www.lee.senate.gov/2026/7/lee-latter-day-saint-colleagues-honor-pioneer-spirit-on-senate-floor,"Lee, Latter-Day Saint Colleagues Honor Pioneer Spirit on Senate Floor",2026-07-23,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,UT,Mike Lee,L000577,www.lee.senate.gov,mikelee,https://www.lee.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) today joined his Latter-day Saint colleagues Sens. John Curtis (R-UT) and Mike Crapo (R-ID) to commemorate the arrival of the first company of Latter-day Saint pioneers into the Salt Lake Valley on July 24, 1847. In a resolution delivered on the Senate floor, the senators highlighted how the virtues demonstrated by early Latter-day Saint pioneers — including faith, sacrifice, resilience, and community — are universal American aspirations essential to addressing our nation’s modern challenges.

The resolution reads as follows:

This week, Utahns will celebrate Pioneer Day, which commemorates the arrival of the first company of Latter-day Saint pioneers into the Salt Lake Valley on July 24, 1847.

For many outside of Utah, Pioneer Day may seem like a uniquely local observance. But the values it commemorates are profoundly American and can resonate with all of us. We recognize not only a historic journey, but the enduring pioneer spirit that helped shape the American West—and continues to shape our country today.

The early members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints sought to actualize our first freedom, and something every American should cherish: religious liberty.

Instead, they were driven from their homes, stripped of their property, and forced to flee into an uncertain wilderness.

Thousands traveled more than 1,300 miles across plains, deserts, and mountains. My recent walk across the state spanned only 250miles, and our pioneers did not have the luxury of spare shoes and an RV to sleep in at night.

Parents buried children. Children buried parents. Spouses buried their soulmates.

Yet, they sang “All is well”—from a hymn still a favorite in our church buildings today—for they had a vision of a land “Far away in the West, Where none shall come to hurt or make afraid; [where] the Saints will be blessed.”

When they finally reached that place, the Salt Lake Valley, they didn't dwell on what they had lost.

They focused on what they could build.

Within days, they were planting crops, digging irrigation canals, laying out streets, and creating communities where none had existed before.

Over the decades that followed, they established hundreds of settlements across the Mountain West, built roads and bridges, and helped countless other emigrants traveling west.

That is the pioneer spirit. That is the American spirit.

It is resilience in the face of hardship.

It is self-reliance married with cooperation.

It is choosing to build instead of surrender.

As our nation celebrates its 250th anniversary, I believe those values are as relevant today as they were nearly 180 years ago.

Every generation faces its own frontier. Ours may not be crossing the plains, but we are still called to solve difficult problems, contribute meaningfully to our communities, and leave a better nation for those who inherit it.

Americans still want to build something meaningful.

They still want to provide for their families.

They still want their children to inherit greater opportunities than they themselves received.

Those aspirations haven't changed.

What has changed is that sometimes we forget the virtues and sacrifices required to achieve them. May we all, this Pioneer Day, recommit ourselves to remembering that heritage, and channeling that spirit in our own hearts.

Because the American story has never belonged to just one generation. It is written by each generation willing to work, sacrifice, and build for the next.

That is why the resolution I’m introducing with my colleagues today is about more than honoring the past. It is about carrying forward the virtues that made those pioneers successful: faith, sacrifice, community, industry, and perseverance.

May we honor their legacy by living those same values and continuing to move our nation forward—one faithful step at a time.

Read the full resolution text here.

###",1,2026-07-24T07:30:11Z,2026-07-24T07:31:13Z
https://www.lee.senate.gov/2026/7/we-don-t-worship-fauci-lee-bill-pulls-tax-dollars-from-schools-that-deny-religious-vaccine-exemptions,“We Don’t Worship Fauci” Lee Bill Pulls Tax Dollars from Schools that Deny Religious Vaccine Exemptions,2026-07-23,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,UT,Mike Lee,L000577,www.lee.senate.gov,mikelee,https://www.lee.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) today introduced legislation to keep federal tax dollars from schools that refuse to recognize religious exemptions for vaccinations. The Guaranteeing Religious Accommodation in Childhood Education (GRACE) Act protects religious freedom and parental rights by cutting federal funding from noncompliant schools, and prevents schools from targeting families with burdensome religious documentation requirements. The GRACE Act is cosponsored by Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL), was introduced in the House by Congressman Greg Steube (R-FL-17), and is endorsed by over fifty organizations.

“Schools are discriminating against religious kids and targeting their families over vaccine exemptions,” said Senator Mike Lee. “Keeping a kindergartner out of class over a vaccine is cruel – and it’s unconstitutional when the reason is their family’s religion. The GRACE Act will keep federal tax dollars out of schools that refuse religious exemptions for vaccines, and will outlaw targeting families to prove their beliefs. These schools need to learn we don’t all worship Fauci.”

“This is a free country and parents have every right to make personal decisions about what vaccines they choose to give their children,” said Senator Tommy Tuberville. “Last time I checked, parents are in charge of a child’s healthcare decisions, not the federal government. Taxpayer funded K-12 schools have no right to turn students away at the door because of their vaccination status – especially if they have a religious exemption. The GRACE Act is an incredibly important bill that protects religious liberty and puts parents back in charge.”

“Freedom of speech and religion is the most sacred right guaranteed under our Constitution,” said Congressman Greg Steube. “No student or their family should ever be coerced into sacrificing their faith or jumping through loopholes to comply with a vaccine requirement. The GRACE Act reaffirms our country’s commitment to protecting religious freedom in the classroom.”

The GRACE Act is supported by families and endorsed by over fifty organizations including Guiding The Impact, Family Research Council, First Liberty, Children’s Health Defense, MAHA Action, Moms for Liberty, Global Wellness Forum, and many others.

Read the experiences of American families impacted by discriminatory vaccine mandates at a recent hearing and below:

""I am very thankful for Senator Lee's legislation to provide equal opportunities for children and to restore religious liberty. The repeal of the religious exemption has become etched into every part of who I am. No child should ever have to go through the exclusion and isolation that my sister and I did. Without my parents' sacrifices, we would have lost important parts of our childhood. Though I love my new school, I always worry whether I will lose my place in class if religious exemptions are repealed again. I worry about losing my access to learning, friends, teachers, self esteem – everything that took so long to build back. All children in the United States should have equal access to education, regardless of their faith. That is what our founding fathers envisioned so many years ago.” – Isabella, 14-year-old student who was denied her right to an education on her 7th birthday

""We are incredibly thankful for Senator Lee's courage and leadership. Our family continues to sacrifice education, privacy, financial stability, and the peaceful enjoyment of our lives in order to maintain our religious convictions as we raise our children. A truly inclusive society offers every child a seat in the classroom, which many states have safely accomplished. This legislation would bring desperately needed relief to our children and to families who have endured great harm and sacrifice as a result of their commitment to faith.” – Nancy, mother to Isabella and parent impacted by discriminatory vaccine mandates

“Since California eliminated its religious exemption for school immunization requirements in 2015, my daughter has been unable to attend the neighborhood school she would otherwise attend today. We live near the school, so she regularly sees children her age walking through the gates with their backpacks. She looks at me and asks, ""Mom, why can't I go to school like the other kids?"" There is no easy way to explain to a 7-year-old that she can't attend because California no longer recognizes our family’s sincerely held religious beliefs.” – Karen, parent impacted by discriminatory vaccine mandates

""When New York repealed its religious exemption in 2019, our oldest son was forced out of the high school he loved, our younger children were denied access to daycare and school, and my husband and I spent three years homeschooling while working full-time. Ultimately, we had no choice but to uproot our family and move to Florida – leaving behind our home, careers, friends, extended family, and even our oldest son and grandson – so our younger children could receive an education without requiring us to violate our Christian faith. No American family should ever be driven from their home state simply to exercise a God-given right protected by the First Amendment."" – Elyse Young, Founder, Guiding the Impact

Background

Vaccine mandates for children in K-12 schools began in 1855, with all 50 states requiring a variety of student vaccines by 1980. These mandates require children to receive state-selected vaccinations in order to enroll in classes, and sometimes to participate in extracurricular activities.

While students may receive an exemption from one or more vaccines for medical, religious, or personal reasons, religious exemptions are often viewed as less legitimate than medical exemptions and are the most challenging for students to obtain. Requirements to receive an exemption range from providing a note signed by a legal guardian to showing explicit documentation proving religious affiliation. These hurdles for non-medical vaccine exemptions have caused some parents to withdraw their child from school – sometimes neglecting to provide education entirely. Other students in California, Connecticut, Maine, and New York are not allowed any form of religious exemption and must be vaccinated at the expense of their beliefs in order to attend school.

Before removing their religious freedom exemptions in recent years, California and New York reported that approximately 1-3% of their students held religious freedom exemptions, and Maine saw approximately double the national rate for non-medical exemptions. Thousands of American children are now blocked from attending the schools their tax dollars pay for, solely because of their sincerely held religious beliefs.

The GRACE Act would rectify this injustice by ensuring that the federal government does not financially support school policies that supersede students’ First Amendment right to the free exercise of religion.

The Guaranteeing Religious Accommodation in Childhood Education (GRACE) Act:

Prohibits federal education funds from any educational institutions and agencies that do not allow religious exemptions to vaccine requirements.

Prevents institutions from requiring documentation or other information to be submitted by the student or family obtaining a religious exemption.

Read exclusive coverage by Breitbart News here.",1,2026-07-24T07:30:11Z,2026-07-24T07:31:13Z
https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-the-pioneer-spirit-is-the-american-spirit,Curtis: The Pioneer Spirit is the American Spirit,2026-07-23,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,UT,John R. Curtis,C001114,www.curtis.senate.gov,curtis,https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"The full text of the resolution can be found here. Video of his remarks is available here and the full transcript as prepared for delivery is below.

Mr. President,

This week, Utahns will celebrate Pioneer Day, which commemorates the arrival of the first company of Latter-day Saint pioneers into the Salt Lake Valley on July 24, 1847.

For many outside of Utah, Pioneer Day may seem like a uniquely local observance. But the values it commemorates are profoundly American and can resonate with all of us. We recognize not only a historic journey, but the enduring pioneer spirit that helped shape the American West—and continues to shape our country today.

The early members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints sought to actualize our first freedom, and something every American should cherish: religious liberty.

Instead, they were driven from their homes, stripped of their property, and forced to flee into an uncertain wilderness.

Thousands traveled more than 1,300 miles across plains, deserts, and mountains. My recent walk across the state spanned only 250-miles, and our pioneers did not have the luxury of spare shoes and an RV to sleep in at night.

Parents buried children. Children buried parents. Spouses buried their soulmates.

Yet, they sang “All is well”—from a hymn still a favorite in our church buildings today—for they had a vision of a land “Far away in the West, Where none shall come to hurt or make afraid; [where] the Saints will be blessed.”

When they finally reached that place, the Salt Lake Valley, they didn’t dwell on what they had lost.

They focused on what they could build.

Within days, they were planting crops, digging irrigation canals, laying out streets, and creating communities where none had existed before.

Over the decades that followed, they established hundreds of settlements across the Mountain West, built roads and bridges, and helped countless other emigrants traveling west.

That is the pioneer spirit. That is the American spirit.

It is resilience in the face of hardship.

It is self-reliance married with cooperation.

It is choosing to build instead of surrender.

As our nation celebrates its 250th anniversary, I believe those values are as relevant today as they were nearly 180 years ago.

Every generation faces its own frontier. Ours may not be crossing the plains, but we are still called to solve difficult problems, contribute meaningfully to our communities, and leave a better nation for those who inherit it.

Americans still want to build something meaningful.

They still want to provide for their families.

They still want their children to inherit greater opportunities than they themselves received.

Those aspirations haven’t changed.

What has changed is that sometimes we forget the virtues and sacrifices required to achieve them. May we all, this Pioneer Day, recommit ourselves to remembering that heritage, and channeling that spirit in our own hearts.

Because the American story has never belonged to just one generation. It is written by each generation willing to work, sacrifice, and build for the next.

That is why the resolution I’m introducing with my colleagues today is about more than honoring the past. It is about carrying forward the virtues that made those pioneers successful: faith, sacrifice, community, industry, and perseverance.

May we honor their legacy by living those same values and continuing to move our nation forward—one faithful step at a time.

Thank you, Mr. President.",1,2026-07-25T07:13:44Z,2026-07-25T07:15:09Z
https://blakemoore.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-blake-moore-introduces-legislation-to-prevent-fraud-in-government-programs,Congressman Blake Moore Introduces Legislation to Prevent Fraud in Government Programs,2026-07-22,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,UT,Blake D. Moore,M001213,blakemoore.house.gov,blakemoore,https://blakemoore.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Blake Moore introduced legislation to prevent fraud in government programs and strengthen anti-fraud efforts.

The Anti-Fraud Fund Act of 2026 provides federal investigators the personnel and technology needed to identify fraud, put a stop to it, and recover taxpayer dollars.

This bill invests $28 billion in the Health Care Fraud and Abuse Control (HCFAC) Program, with $7 billion allocated annually for fiscal years (FY) 2027 through FY 2030. These additional resources would fund attorneys, agents, and technology for the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to go after and prevent fraud in Medicare and Medicaid.

For every dollar invested in anti-fraud measures, there is a return in the form of recouped and halted fraudulent payments. The Congressional Budget Office preliminarily estimates the net savings for this investment would be at least $168 billion over 10 years, with a 7:1 return in dollars saved for every dollar spent.

This legislation is cosponsored by House Budget Chairman Jodey Arrington (R-TX), Jay Obernolte (R-CA), Glenn Grothman (R-WI), Mike Carey (R-OH), Addison McDowell (R-NC), and Lloyd Smucker (R-PA).

""The Health Care Fraud and Abuse Control Program has existed for thirty years, and under the Trump Administration, CMS Administrator Dr. Oz, and Deputy Administrator Kim Brandt, it has proven to be one of the most effective tools to combat fraud in our health care system,"" Rep. Moore said. ""This joint DOJ-HHS program has a 7:1 return in dollars saved for every dollar spent. I am confident that providing these immediate funds through the Anti-Fraud Fund Act over the next four years will empower Dr. Oz’s team to bring accountability to Medicare and Medicaid providers and ensure good stewardship of tax dollars.”

“$275 million in taxpayer dollars are stolen every day from the Medicare and Medicaid programs. CMS, under the leadership of Dr. Oz and 'Fraud Czar' Kim Brandt, has taken this massive fraud head on. The Anti-Fraud Fund Act is a commonsense bill that strengthens CMS’s ability to prevent, detect, investigate, and prosecute health care fraud, ensuring taxpayers’ hard-earned dollars never leave the Treasury into a fraudster’s hands. Every dollar lost to fraud is a dollar stolen from taxpayers and the vulnerable Americans these programs are meant to serve. We owe it to all Americans to restore program integrity, enforce real safeguards, and ensure these programs work for the people who truly need them,” Chairman Arrington said.

“California knows all too well the enormous cost of unchecked fraud. Every dollar stolen from Medicare or Medicaid is a dollar taken from seniors, vulnerable patients, and hardworking taxpayers,” Rep. Obernolte said. “The Anti-Fraud Fund Act will give federal investigators the personnel and technology needed to identify fraud sooner, stop bad actors, and recover taxpayer dollars. With an estimated return of seven dollars for every dollar invested, this legislation is a commonsense way to protect our health care programs and restore accountability in government spending.”

Background:

Established in 1996, the HCFAC Program serves as the primary federal investment to address health care fraud and abuse through the identification and reduction of improper payments, as well as the prevention, detection, investigation, and prosecution of bad actors. The program is a coordinated effort between the Department of Justice, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, and Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General.

You can read the full bill here.

###",1,2026-07-23T07:31:02Z,2026-07-23T07:32:26Z
https://mikekennedy.house.gov/media/press-releases/main-street-capital-access-act-passes-house-rep-kennedys-support,Main Street Capital Access Act Passes House with Rep. Kennedy’s support,2026-07-22,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,UT,Mike Kennedy,K000403,mikekennedy.house.gov,mikekennedy,https://mikekennedy.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – The House passed the Main Street Capital Access (“Main Street”) Act by a vote of 270-155-1. This legislation is co-sponsored by Congressman Mike Kennedy (UT-03), and led by House Committee on Financial Services Chairman French Hill (AR-02) and Subcommittee on Financial Institutions Chair Andy Barr (KY-06).

Rep. Kennedy signed on early as a co-sponsor of the package because of its focus on strengthening community banks: the institutions that power small businesses, farms, and local economies across Utah's 3rd district and throughout the country. The Main Street Act will revitalize local bank formation and ensure that community lenders can focus on serving families and Main Street businesses, helping make life more affordable for Americans.

“The backbone of a free and strong economy is the local business owner,” said Congressman Mike Kennedy. “Supporting Main Street institutions is one of the most effective ways to lower costs and secure long-term stability for American families. I appreciate Chairman Hill for his dedicated leadership on this issue, and am honored to join him in this fight for affordability and economic opportunity.”

""As a former community banker, I've seen firsthand how community banks drive Main Street's growth,” said Chairman French Hill (AR-02). “For decades, Washington has forced these institutions to operate under rules built for the largest, most systemically important banks, stifling local lending and accelerating industry consolidation. This bill fixes that. It spurs the formation of new banks, restores common-sense tailoring to bank regulation, and removes barriers that have limited lending in communities across the country. Expanding access to capital means entrepreneurs can invest, businesses can grow, and families can build wealth. I want to thank Subcommittee Chairman Andy Barr for his partnership on this bill, and I look forward to the Senate taking up this important legislation.”

“Community banks are the backbone of Kentucky’s economy,” said Financial Institutions Subcommittee Chairman Andy Barr (KY-06). “They help our small businesses grow, support our farmers, and give hardworking families a chance to achieve the American Dream. House Republicans are keeping our promise to make that dream more attainable by advancing a regulatory framework that expands access to capital, promotes economic growth, and strengthens Main Street. I’m grateful to Chairman French Hill for his leadership, and I’m proud the House is passing this package to support community banks and the Americans they serve.”

“America cannot succeed if Main Street doesn’t, and for too long, unnecessary barriers have made it harder for small businesses to receive the support they need to thrive,” said Speaker Mike Johnson (LA-04). “The Main Street Capital Access Act offers commonsense solutions by helping local lenders better serve local businesses and the communities that rely on them. I commend Chairman Hill and Rep. Barr for their leadership on this issue and look forward to this important legislation supporting communities across the nation..”

“When community banks thrive, American workers on Main Street thrive. House Republicans are modernizing outdated regulations that have placed costly and unnecessary burdens on community banks and credit unions,” said Majority Leader Scalise (LA-01). “The Main Street Capital Access Act will make it easier for local lenders to serve families and small businesses, and strengthen the communities they serve. I thank Chairman French Hill, Andy Barr, and the entire House Financial Services Committee for advancing this commonsense legislation.”

“It’s time to bring commonsense back to banking, and the Main Street Capital Access Act does just that,” said Majority Whip Tom Emmer (MN-06). “This legislation will right-size federal bank regulations that currently treat local and mid-sized banks the same as the largest banks in the country. By cutting unnecessary red tape and expanding access to funding, we are going to keep community banks strong. We’re also pleased to see the Keeping Deposits Local Act included in this final bill. I want to thank Chairman French Hill and Congressman Andy Barr for their work on this legislation and helping keep community banks competitive.”

“The Main Street Capital Access Act cuts unnecessary red tape, promotes competition, and ensures smaller lenders can spend more time serving their customers instead of satisfying bureaucrats,” said House Republican Conference Chairwoman Lisa McClain (MI-09). “That's exactly the kind of commonsense reform Republicans are fighting for to strengthen Main Street and keep the American Dream within reach.”

Read a 1 pager here.",1,2026-07-23T07:31:02Z,2026-07-23T07:32:26Z
https://mikekennedy.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mike-kennedy-meets-local-leaders-babylon-fire-command-post-san-juan,Rep. Mike Kennedy meets with local leaders at Babylon Fire command post in San Juan,2026-07-22,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,UT,Mike Kennedy,K000403,mikekennedy.house.gov,mikekennedy,https://mikekennedy.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – On July 18, 2025, U.S. Rep. Mike Kennedy (UT-03), visited the incident command post for the Babylon Fire for a briefing, hearing directly from Manti-La Sal National Forest leadership and fire personnel who are managing the incident.

Kennedy was joined by U.S. Wildland Fire Service Great Basin Area Fire Chief Chris Delaney, Utah State Forestry, Fire & State Lands Deputy Director Brianne Emery, and San Juan County Commissioner Silvia Stubbs.

""You cannot measure this in acres burned or dollars lost. It is the exhaustion of people wondering about their own safety and the safety of the places they love,"" said Rep. Mike Kennedy. ""We owe them the work. Not just the work this summer, but the work of the future. The work that makes the next fire season easier.""

""Utah has experienced a very active wildfire season over the last two months, with multiple large fires igniting across the state,"" said Brianne Emery, Deputy Director, Utah Division of Forestry, Fire and State Lands. ""The Babylon Fire is an example of the conditions our wildland firefighters have faced this summer. The hot, dry, and windy conditions have created a recipe for extreme fire behavior, which has led to the exponential growth of some of these wildfires. Resources from the state and federal agencies, along with local fire departments, have been actively engaged in protecting our communities and continue to be ready to respond when the time comes.""

The briefing covered the fire's progression; the extreme weather and fuel conditions that drove the fire's behavior; response coordination among local, state, and federal agencies; impacts to livestock owners; and the suppression repair work that is already underway.

""The decisions about how our land is cared for, and how it gets protected when the time comes, often run through the slow mechanics of Washington, far from the people who live next to it,"" Kennedy said.

He continued, ""That is why my team is working with local leaders and with people in this community to look at how federal, state, and local coordination worked on this fire. We are looking at every part of it, because we, just like the people of Utah, refuse to accept this type of destruction year after year.""

Kennedy asked about cattle losses, assistance available to affected ranchers, firefighter safety, and lessons learned that could strengthen future wildfire response. The discussion also covered community wildfire education, structure preparedness, and the costs of managing a large, multi-agency incident.

""There are too few people in Congress who understand what this county and state are going through. My job is to make them understand it, and then to get them to do something about it,"" Kennedy said.

He added, ""I want to put the pen in the hands of the locals. Their expertise has to drive federal decisions from the ground up. Utahns will be here when the crews go home. Utahns will be looking at that scarred ground for years. And Utahns will ultimately have to live with the decisions that are made.""

Following the briefing, Kennedy toured the incident command post, San Juan, and met with additional personnel supporting the Babylon Fire response.

Background:

Rep. Kennedy represents Utah's Third Congressional District, which includes the areas affected by the Babylon Fire. Kennedy requested this briefing to hear directly from the local, state, and federal personnel managing the incident, and to bring that firsthand perspective into his work on federal wildfire and forest policy.

As Vice Chairman of the House Natural Resources Subcommittee on Federal Lands, the subcommittee with direct jurisdiction over federal forest land, Rep. Mike Kennedy, M.D. (UT-03) has made wildfire prevention and forest management a legislative priority.",1,2026-07-23T07:31:02Z,2026-07-23T07:32:26Z
https://owens.house.gov/posts/owens-holds-moment-of-silence-for-long-family-lost-in-flash-flood,Owens Holds Moment of Silence for Long Family Lost in Flash Flood,2026-07-22,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,UT,Burgess Owens,O000086,owens.house.gov,owens,https://owens.house.gov/press,scraper,"I rise today to honor a beloved Utah family whose lives were lost this past week by a flash flood in Wayne County.

Provo Fire Captain Spencer Long, his wife Katrina, and their three sons — Reid, Thayne, and Gage — were camping when they were caught in the floodwaters. They are survived by their daughter and sister, Lydia, who now faces this unimaginable loss.

The Longs are among the very best Utah has to offer. Utah mourns together. Words will never be able to adequately express the profound loss that Lydia has experienced.

On behalf of Utah, we offer our deepest condolences to her, the Provo Fire Department, the city of Mona, and to all who loved the Longs.

To many, the thought of continuing without them is unimaginable. Yet we hold fast to Heavenly Fathers’ promise that “The Lord is near unto them that are of a broken heart.” Today, we pray that His presence will be especially near to Lydia and to all who mourn.

I ask that you join me in a moment of silence

For Lydia and for all who mourn the Longs’ passing… may God bless and comfort them. I yield back.

###",1,2026-07-23T07:31:02Z,2026-07-23T07:32:26Z
https://owens.house.gov/posts/owens-secures-core-provisions-of-mining-schools-act-in-ndaa,Owens Secures Core Provisions of Mining Schools Act in NDAA ,2026-07-22,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,UT,Burgess Owens,O000086,owens.house.gov,owens,https://owens.house.gov/press,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Burgess Owens (UT-04) applauded the inclusion of core provisions of his Mining Schools Act into the base text of this year’s National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which passed the House with a vote of 216-212.

The Mining Schools Act, which passed out of the House Natural Resources Committee in 2024, provides grant support to strengthen domestic mining education programs and expand opportunities for students pursuing careers in mining engineering, geology, metallurgy, and other technical fields critical to America’s energy and national security needs.

The legislation will help ensure that the United States continues to reduce its dependence on foreign adversaries for the materials and minerals critical to modern life and national security. By ensuring more talent enters the workforce prepared to strengthen our domestic critical minerals production and processing capabilities.

“America’s mineral security is inseparably linked to our national security. In today’s world, full of heightened global tensions, we cannot continue to turn to our adversaries for the critical minerals essential to modern life and national security. That is why I am so grateful to see core provisions of my bipartisan Mining Schools Act included in the base text of this year’s NDAA. The United States of America was blessed with a wealth of mineral resources, but without the training or workforce needed to find, mine, and refine the deposits we have, we will be left to the whims of China for our future. This provision will ensure that the next generation of workers will be prepared to ensure our future is safe, secure, and independent.”

Rep. Burgess Owens

“For more than a century, the University of Utah has been a cornerstone of Utah’s mining industry—and as a top research university offering programs in geology, mining engineering, and metallurgical engineering, that role has never been more critical. We prepare the skilled workforce Utah’s mines depend on and conduct research that makes mining safer, more efficient, and a strong driver of economic growth for our state, while helping to secure the nation’s critical mineral supply.”

President Randall, University of Utah

“Including language from Congressman Burgess Owens’ Mining Schools Act in the NDAA is a major win for Utah, because it formally links our world‑class mining education and training programs with the nation’s defense industrial base and critical minerals supply chain. By opening the door to new federal partnerships, scholarships, and hands‑on training, this program will help Utah recruit, educate, and place the next generation of miners, engineers, and technicians our state and our country need to stay secure and competitive. The Utah Mining Association thanks Congressman Owens and the other members of Utah’s federal delegation for their efforts to support Utah’s mining industry and our current and future mining workforce.”

Brian Somers, President, Utah Mining Association:

“American mining, and the workforce behind it, is essential to our national security. The Mining Schools Act strengthens our ability to build and sustain the skilled domestic mining workforce that is critical to securing the minerals our defense and energy systems need. We appreciate its inclusion in the House National Defense Authorization Act and urge the Senate to follow suit to ensure the United States has the talent needed to support a secure, reliable domestic mining industry.”

Rich Nolan, President and CEO, National Mining Association:

“The inclusion of workforce development language in the FY27 NDAA represents an important step toward ensuring secure and reliable domestic critical mineral supply chains. By investing in accredited mining schools and workforce development pathways, this provision addresses real workforce gaps while helping ensure the United States remains competitive in a rapidly evolving global minerals landscape. These initiatives will prepare the next generation of skilled professionals essential to our economic and strategic strength. ACMA thanks Congressman Owens for his leadership on this issue and strongly supports retaining this language in the final text of the NDAA. We urge Congress to advance and approve this provision to help secure the future of the minerals workforce and the supply chains that power and protect our daily lives.”

Sarah Venuto, Executive Director, American Critical Minerals Association

The FY27 NDAA language adopts the spirit and structure of the Mining Schools Act and broadens its reach by leveraging the Department of Defense’s existing authorities under Title III of the Defense Production Act of 1950 and Section 4817 of Title 10. Section 1853 directs DOD workforce development initiatives for the defense industrial base to include initiatives that support the mining industry

What the Mining Schools Act Does

Establishes a grant program for mining schools to receive funds to recruit students and carry out studies, research projects, and demonstration projects related to the production of minerals.

Establishes the Mining Professional Development Advisory Board to evaluate applications and recommend recipients to the Secretary of Energy, as well as conduct oversight to ensure that grant funds are appropriately used.

###",1,2026-07-23T07:31:02Z,2026-07-23T08:16:28Z
https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-bill-to-support-next-generation-of-american-aviation-advances-out-of-committee,Curtis Bill to Support Next Generation of American Aviation Advances Out of Committee,2026-07-22,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,UT,John R. Curtis,C001114,www.curtis.senate.gov,curtis,https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator John Curtis (R-UT) today applauded the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee passage of the bipartisan Aviation Innovation and Global Competitiveness Act, legislation that would improve the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) type certification process for American Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) aircraft companies to help them succeed and cement the United States’ role as a global leader in aviation. The bill, cosponsored by Curtis, was introduced by Senators Peter Welch (D-VT) and Ted Budd (R-NC).

“The Committee passage today brings us one step closer to modernizing the FAA certification process for the next generation of aviation,” said Senator Curtis. “This bipartisan bill will provide greater clarity and accountability, helping American Advanced Air Mobility companies innovate, compete, and lead the world in the future of flight. I’m pleased to see it advance and look forward to its passage by the full Senate.”

“Building on generations of leadership in aviation, American companies are spearheading electric aircraft innovation. That includes companies like Vermont’s Beta Technologies, which completed its historic, first-ever electric flight last year in South Burlington. Ensuring the FAA certification process is safe, efficient, and more transparent for emerging AAM companies like Beta is critical to promoting aviation innovation,” said Senator Welch. “I’m thankful for the support of my colleagues on the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, including my bipartisan co-lead Senator Budd, in helping this bill fly through to the Senate Floor to support American ingenuity, good-paying jobs in Vermont, and our global leadership in aviation.”

“By ensuring that the FAA prioritizes the certification of novel aircraft like eVTOLs, we can quickly incorporate innovative technology into the National Airspace System. I am glad that our common-sense efforts to usher in the next generation of advanced air mobility aircraft will soon be considered by the full Senate,” said Senator Budd.

Background:

AAM technology is a novel collection of technologies that will allow new, innovative aircraft to integrate into our airspace system. Emerging U.S.-based AAM companies are also paving the way for new and innovative electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft. Supporting the United States’ continued leadership in AAM technology development will boost economic growth in American communities across the country.

Since the introduction of the Aviation Innovation and Global Competitiveness Act, the Congressional Research Service (CRS) and the Government Accountability Office (GAO) have both released reports on the AAM certification process and actions that can be taken by Congress to promote aviation innovation.

Specifically, the Aviation Innovation and Global Competitiveness Act:

Establishes non-binding, standard expected timelines for the FAA’s type certification process for AAM aircraft for the Agency to respond to petitions for exemptions of aircraft type, and to develop means of compliance for aircraft outside of the existing types of AAM aircraft.

Sets transparent and reliable non-binding, standard expected ranges of time for the issue paper process, so that type certification applicants know how long reviews will take, reducing uncertainty and delays.

Provides the FAA with the sole discretion to exclude safety-critical matters from established timelines to ensure airspace safety is paramount.

Directs the FAA to define when an issue paper is required in the certification process, while providing flexibility for the Agency on complex safety issues.

Directs the FAA to account for performance-based rules in the certification process.

Directs the FAA to brief the relevant congressional committees on the status of implementing the certification regulations and managing workload.

Clarifies when the FAA can delegate routine compliance findings to qualified personnel, allowing Agency experts to focus on complex, safety-critical issues.

Updates delegation guidance for type certification to cover new and novel technologies related to AAM, including eVTOL aircraft.

The Aviation Innovation and Global Competitiveness Act is endorsed by the Aerospace Industries Association (AIA); Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA); Airports Council International – North America (ACI-NA); American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE); American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA); Archer Aviation; Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI); Beta Technologies; Boeing; Eve Air Mobility; General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA); Joby Aviation; National Air Transportation Association (NATA); National Business Aviation Association (NBAA); Professional Aviation Safety Specialists, AFL-CIO (PASS); Vertical Aviation International (VAI); and Wisk Aero.",1,2026-07-23T07:31:02Z,2026-07-23T07:32:26Z
https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-leads-bipartisan-wildfire-emissions-prevention-act,Curtis Leads Bipartisan Wildfire Emissions Prevention Act,2026-07-22,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,UT,John R. Curtis,C001114,www.curtis.senate.gov,curtis,https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Bipartisan legislation removes regulatory burden on proactive forest management efforts to mitigate wildfires

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator John Curtis (R-UT), member of the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee, led his EPW colleagues—including Committee Chair Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) and Senators Jeff Merkley (D-OR), John Boozman (R-AR), Alex Padilla (D-CA), and Mark Kelly (D-AZ)—in introducing the Wildfire Emissions Prevention Act (WEPA). The bipartisan legislation would streamline states’ use of prescribed fires to prevent wildfire emissions, protect ecosystems and wildlife habitats, and make American forests and communities safer, healthier, and cleaner. It also promotes the efficient use of state air quality resources and provides certainty that states will not be penalized for taking action to prevent wildfires.

“If we’re serious about reducing the size and severity of wildfires, we need to stop punishing local authorities for doing the right thing to improve forest health and remove hazardous fuels,” said Senator Curtis. “By removing unnecessary regulatory burdens on prescribed burns, our legislation helps ensure states and localities can take proactive measures to help keep our forests and communities safe from the threat of wildfires.”

“I am very proud to cosponsor this legislation, which will help reduce the impact of wildfires on our land, our air, and our people,” said Chair Capito. “Wildfires have ravaged many parts of our country over the past several years, and change is necessary to ensure that states can successfully prevent the most dangerous and damaging fires. States should have the right to use known prevention practices, including prescribed fires, to mitigate potential catastrophes and care for their land. This bill gives states another tool in their toolbox, and will reduce barriers to successfully managing wildfires and protecting communities nationwide.”

“When the 2020 Labor Day fires swept across Oregon, I drove over 600 miles and never once escaped the thick, dark smoke that blanketed our state. As Oregonians face yet another record-breaking fire season this year, we need to tackle this crisis at every stage,” said Senator Merkley. “Our bipartisan bill supports more prescribed fire on the landscape—an essential forest management activity—while giving our communities the resources to plan and prepare for smoke events. Climate chaos is fueling more severe wildfires, and I’ll keep fighting to ensure Oregon and communities nationwide have the tools they need to protect public health and save lives.”

“In light of the devastating wildfires we now see far too often, Congress should do everything it can to encourage better forest management practices. Prescribed burns are an important way to prevent large-scale fires that threaten homes and property while damaging natural resources,” said Senator Boozman. “I am proud to join colleagues on both sides of the aisle on this legislation to ensure controlled burns do not generate an adverse Clean Air Act impact or penalize states taking proactive mitigation steps.”

“We know prescribed burns help prevent catastrophic wildfires and save lives,” said Senator Padilla. “This bipartisan bill cuts red tape so California and the whole country can make greater use of this proven, cost-effective tool to protect communities before the next major wildfire. It’s a commonsense step that prioritizes prevention instead of waiting to respond after disaster strikes.”

“Arizona knows the damage catastrophic wildfires can do to our communities and forests. Prescribed burns are one of the best ways to reduce that risk before a fire gets out of control, and states shouldn’t be penalized for taking action,” said Senator Kelly. “This bipartisan effort will help prevent larger, more destructive wildfires, keep our forests healthier, and better protect families from the smoke and pollution they leave behind.”

Background:

Utah fire seasons typically begin in July and end in October. Not even through the first month of the 2026 fire season, Utah has already experienced 594 total wildfires with 379,929 acres burned in 2026—more than the past three years combined.

While topography and natural weather conditions like a historic drought and an increasingly arid, hot climate contribute to an increase in the number of fires and their intensity, land managers can effectively influence fire behavior through proactive measures like prescribed burns. This reduces the number of hazardous fuels, the dry vegetation that catches fire easily—helping protect forests, properties, and communities along the wildland-urban interface.

Implementing these measures has become increasingly burdensome, with environmental reviews for even the smallest projects taking up to four years. Moreover, land managers can be deterred from prescribed burns due to existing environmental penalties. Yet, by avoiding these controlled burns, catastrophic wildfires become practically guaranteed and emit far more carbon than proactive management ever would.

The Wildfire Emissions Prevention Act would:

Make it easier for states and communities to use prescribed fire to prevent wildfire emissions;

Protect ecosystems and wildlife habitat;

Provide certainty that states won’t be penalized for taking action to prevent wildfires;

Promote the efficient use of state air quality resources; and

Make our forests and communities safer, healthier, and cleaner.",1,2026-07-23T07:31:02Z,2026-07-23T07:32:26Z
https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-padilla-tillis-schiff-press-congressional-leaders-to-pass-long-term-disaster-recovery-funding,"Curtis, Padilla, Tillis, Schiff Press Congressional Leaders to Pass Long-Term Disaster Recovery Funding",2026-07-22,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,UT,John R. Curtis,C001114,www.curtis.senate.gov,curtis,https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Thom Tillis (R-NC), and Adam Schiff (D-CA) urged Congressional leaders to include long-term disaster recovery funding in any supplemental appropriations package after the Administration’s recent emergency funding request did not include desperately needed resources for communities to rebuild and recover following catastrophic natural disasters.

In a letter to Senate Committee on Appropriations Chair Susan Collins (R-ME) and Vice Chair Patty Murray (D-WA), the Senators identified natural disasters that have severely devastated communities across the country, specifically the wildfires across Utah.

“This year alone, wildfires have already burned approximately 373,295 acres across 493 fires in Utah,” wrote the senators. “It is only the beginning of the peak dry season, with dangerous conditions persisting for months ahead, and Utah’s prevention and rebuilding efforts have barely begun as communities grapple with destroyed homes, damaged infrastructure, displaced families, and the looming threats of post-fire flooding, erosion, and watershed contamination. These devastating losses not only endanger lives and livelihoods but also impose enormous economic burdens through skyrocketing suppression costs, lost agricultural productivity, and long-term recovery needs. Immediate funding for wildfire protection, prevention, fuel reduction, and rebuilding are more critical than ever to safeguard the West before the season worsens further.”

“These disasters have caused widespread damage across California, North Carolina, and Utah, affecting federal and state highways, critical public infrastructure, homes, and buildings,” the senators continued. “The scale and complexity of these events will require sustained federal support to help communities rebuild damaged infrastructure, restore essential services, and meet long term recovery needs. Therefore, we strongly urge you to include long-term disaster recovery funding, like the Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR), in any supplemental appropriations package to ensure communities have the resources needed to rebuild and recover.”

The senators urged that long-term disaster recovery funding be included in any supplemental appropriations package moving forward, emphasizing the critical need required to fully rebuild, as well as support needed for other natural disasters in Utah and North Carolina.",1,2026-07-23T07:31:02Z,2026-07-23T07:32:26Z
https://owens.house.gov/posts/rep-owens-match-act-passes-committee-markup-with-unanimous-support,Rep. Owens MATCH Act Passes Committee Markup with Unanimous Support,2026-07-21,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,UT,Burgess Owens,O000086,owens.house.gov,owens,https://owens.house.gov/press,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, the House Education and Workforce Committee unanimously advanced Rep. Burgess Owens (UT-04) Modernizing Access to Talents, Credentials, and Hiring (MATCH) Act of 2026, H.R. 8183, during full committee markup, moving the legislation one step closer to a vote on the House floor.

The MATCH Act brings the workforce into the 21st century by creating a modern, interoperable way to verify skills and connect talent to opportunity. Currently, industries have millions of job openings, but they are struggling to find skilled workers to fill them. That is not due to a lack of skilled workers, but because of an outdated system. The MATCH Act modernizes our workforce system by improving how a person’s skills, credentials, and work experience are recognized and verified, and how they are then connected with opportunities that align with their abilities. The legislation is supported by a range of stakeholders and leaders in the workforce development space, including EBSCOed, and Pearson.

“I am incredibly grateful that the Committee has advanced the MATCH Act today with bipartisan and unanimous support. Too many Americans have valuable skills they cannot easily articulate, while too many employers struggle to find the talent they need. This bill helps close that gap by supporting modern workforce data systems, talent marketplaces, portable skills records, and voluntary, job-related skills assessments. This bill ensures every American has a fair opportunity to demonstrate his or her skills and succeed in the workforce.”

Representative Burgess Owens

“A Learning and Employment Record turns what you can do into something you own. The MATCH Act writes that principle into law: skills that are verified, controlled by the individual, and portable across every employer and every state line. EBSCOed is proud to support the MATCH Act by putting an LER in the hand of every American, free and for life. This is how the country keeps its oldest promise with its newest tools, that opportunity belongs to anyone who can do the work, and now they can prove it.”

Greg DiDonato, Vice President, EBSCOed

Background

The MATCH Act would specifically:

Authorize a five-year pilot program for talent marketplaces—digital platforms that help match workers to jobs and training based on verified skills, credentials, and experience.

Support the use of portable learning and employment records that allow workers to carry their verified skills and credentials across jobs, programs, and state lines.

Strengthen credential registries that clearly define what degrees, certificates, and training programs represent in terms of skills and competencies.

Require workforce information to be accessible through user-friendly, searchable public websites to improve transparency for workers and employers.

Promote interoperability and open standards to ensure systems can work across state lines and institutions, which would support worker mobility and reduce duplication.

###",1,2026-07-22T07:34:13Z,2026-07-22T07:35:16Z
https://owens.house.gov/posts/rep-owens-rural-healthcare-act-passes-committee-markup,Rep. Owens’ RURAL Healthcare Act Passes Committee Markup,2026-07-21,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,UT,Burgess Owens,O000086,owens.house.gov,owens,https://owens.house.gov/press,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, the House Education and Workforce Committee advanced Congressman Burgess Owens’ (UT-04) Reinforcing Underserved, Rural, and Local (RURAL) Healthcare Act, H.R. 8347, during full committee markup. The bill protects the independent contractor status of locum tenens physicians and advanced practitioners under the Fair Labor Standards Act, guarding against staffing lapses in rural and underserved communities.

The Latin term locum tenens means “to hold the place,” referring to clinicians who provide temporary medical services in hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare settings. This short-term staffing plays a critical role in maintaining continuity of care for Americans who may live long distances from hospitals or clinics.

“I’m grateful that today the Education and Workforce Committee passed my RURAL Healthcare Act. Ensuring that the physicians and advanced practitioners who go out of their way to ensure rural communities have reliable access to healthcare aren’t bogged down in needless red tape and regulatory uncertainty. ”

Rep. Burgess Owens

###",1,2026-07-22T07:34:13Z,2026-07-22T08:12:36Z
https://www.lee.senate.gov/2026/7/lee-asks-hhs-to-cut-red-tape-for-life-saving-diabetes-treatment,Lee Asks HHS to Cut Red Tape for Life-Saving Diabetes Treatment,2026-07-21,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,UT,Mike Lee,L000577,www.lee.senate.gov,mikelee,https://www.lee.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) called on the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to cut red tape around life-saving diabetes treatment. Building on the framework of Senator Lee’s ISLET Act, the letter urges HHS to reclassify islets to facilitate their use in treatment for Americans with diabetes.

“Americans living with diabetes have been kept from life-saving research by nonsensical red tape,” said Senator Mike Lee. “Other countries treat islet transplantation as standard care, but a miscategorization in our law regulates islets as drugs rather than organs. I’m asking HHS to rectify this issue and make critical care available to Americans living with Type 1 diabetes.”

The letter is endorsed and championed by leading global type 1 diabetes research and advocacy organization Breakthrough T1D:

“For decades, other countries have successfully treated eligible people with type 1 diabetes using deceased donor islet transplants. Yet a simple regulatory classification has kept such treatments relatively inaccessible to the U.S. T1D community. It is past time for that to change. Breakthrough T1D thanks Senator Lee for his leadership in calling on HHS to reclassify deceased donor islets as organs for transplantation. This one adjustment can bring life-changing relief to more people living with T1D in the U.S. while catalyzing the research that will ultimately cure us all. We urge Secretary Kennedy to quickly take up this much-needed policy change.” – Breakthrough T1D

The letter reads as follows:

Dear Secretary Kennedy,

Re: Please Act to Reclassify Deceased Donor Islet Cells as Organs to Improve Diabetes Treatment Availability

I write to urge HHS to take administrative action to improve access to deceased donor islet cell transplantation for individuals living with type 1 diabetes (T1D). Scientific progress has brought the 1.6 million Americans living with T1D closer to transformative and potentially curative therapies than ever before, but outdated regulatory classifications continue to limit patient access to this safe and effective treatment option. This must be fixed.

Recognizing the need to expand access to deceased donor islet cell transplantation for individuals living with T1D, I introduced the ISLET Act. This legislation would reclassify unmodified deceased donor islet cells as organs for purposes of transplantation—rather than continuing to regulate them solely as biological products requiring approval through a Biologics License Application (BLA)—so more centers across the United States can offer this therapy option. However, it is also possible for this reclassification to be made under existing HHS authority. Such administrative action, consistent with the policy goals of the ISLET Act, could simplify the transplant process, help align oversight with the biological nature of these cells, and ensure patients are not denied access to a potentially transformative therapy.

Deceased donor islet cell transplantation has been studied for decades, and clinical research shows meaningful benefits for individuals with T1D who experience severe hypoglycemia and hypoglycemia unawareness. Yet, despite FDA approval of a deceased donor islet cell product in 2023, patient access remains extremely limited. This suggests that the current US regulatory pathway is not functioning in a way that supports broad, practical availability of this therapy for the patients most likely to benefit from it. Reclassifying unmodified deceased donor islet cells under the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network (OPTN), while maintaining FDA oversight for manufactured cell therapies and any deceased donor islet products that undergo further modification, is a sensible and targeted solution.

Importantly, this approach would not require compromising patient safety. Rather, it could be implemented through a carefully designed framework that includes qualified transplant centers, appropriate quality controls, clear distribution protocols, and a pathway for responsible expansion to additional accredited sites. Such an approach would also better align the United States with the regulatory treatment of deceased donor islet cell transplantation in other developed nations and help strengthen American leadership in diabetes innovation and cure-focused research.

I urge HHS to act now, within its existing authority, so eligible patients are not forced to wait for access to a therapy that could significantly improve their lives, and I welcome the opportunity to work with you and your team on a swift path forward.

Read the full text of the letter here.

###",1,2026-07-22T07:34:13Z,2026-07-22T07:35:16Z
https://www.lee.senate.gov/2026/7/lee-urges-doj-investigation-of-five-gruesome-dc-abortion-victims-with-rep-chris-smith,Lee Urges DOJ Investigation of Five Gruesome DC Abortion Victims with Rep. Chris Smith,2026-07-21,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,UT,Mike Lee,L000577,www.lee.senate.gov,mikelee,https://www.lee.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) and Congressman Chris Smith (R-NJ-04) led 55 of their Republican colleagues in a letter urging the U.S. Department of Justice to investigate five gruesome apparent late-term abortion victims discovered outside of a D.C. clinic in 2022. Known as the “D.C. Five,” these victims have yet to receive proper investigations, autopsies, or justice. The letter is endorsed by National Right to Life, SBA Pro-Life America, Family Research Council, and Students for Life Action.

“Four years ago now, the bodies of five preborn children were found in D.C., apparently victims of infanticide or illegal partial-birth abortions. Those babies have still not received justice or proper investigations,” said Senator Mike Lee. “Americans cannot tolerate rogue abortion clinics performing gruesome murders and casting helpless victims aside like garbage, especially not in our Nation’s capital. This crime demands attention and prosecution to the fullest extent of the law. I urge the Department of Justice to give this alarming case the full investigation it deserves, and the victims the proper autopsies and burials they are owed.”

“The Biden Administration’s deliberate and callous mishandling of the ‘D.C. Five’ case has been a stain on the Department of Justice for over four years now,” said Congressman Chris Smith. “These five beautiful, innocent babies—who were violently exterminated—deserve justice, accountability, and respect. All those involved and complicit in these children’s barbaric deaths must be held to account, and we are calling upon President Trump’s Department of Justice to ensure that these battered baby victims receive their day in court.”

Background

In the letter, first obtained by the Daily Wire, the 57 members of Congress explain that the desecrated bodies of these children — one of which bore deep lacerations and injuries consistent with illegal partial-birth abortion procedures — were “recovered by the Metropolitan Police Department in 2022, after they were allegedly aborted in the Washington Surgi-Clinic operated by the late-term abortionist Dr. Cesare Santangelo.”

“For four years, members of Congress have remained alarmed at this clear violation of life and law, but the Biden Administration Department of Justice refused to act,” the Republican lawmakers write.

The letter follows an April 2022 letter led by Senator Lee and Congressman Smith and signed by 67 other members of Congress, which called upon Biden-era Attorney General Merrick Garland to conduct a “comprehensive investigation on the circumstances surrounding the deaths of each preborn baby.”

The latest letter explains that President Biden’s DOJ “never provided a substantive response or indicated that any investigation had occurred,” and reports indicated that the agency even went as far as to advise “the Chief Medical Examiner to discard the bodies of the infants.”

In the letter, the members of Congress relay the expert findings of neonatal specialist Dr. Robin Pierucci, M.D. — who, upon viewing the publicly shared photographs of the deceased babies, said that she could “‘say with confidence that [four of] these babies died at an age when they were viable, premature people’” — and neonatologist Dr. Kendra Kolb, M.D., who posited that at least one child may have been killed from an illegal partial-birth abortion method, as one 28-30 week-old baby had “‘deep lacerations to the posterior neck, which presumably correlates to the method of abortion used to end her life.’”

The Republican lawmakers further argue that “if this baby girl was alive when the abortionist made these lacerations, then her death directly violated the Partial-Birth Abortion Ban Act of 2003 (18 U.S. Code § 1531), which criminalizes the partial deliverance of a living child for the purpose of performing an overt act that intentionally takes the life of the child.”

Urging a renewed review of these tragic cases, the GOP co-signers note that former Attorney General Pam Bondi confirmed in a June 2025 House budget hearing that the DOJ “was conducting an ongoing investigation into this case” and recall that a report signed by President Donald Trump encouraged the agency to “‘provide a briefing to the Committees on all actions previously taken by the Department on this issue within 180 days after the enactment of this act,’” which would fall on July 22, 2026.

“After years of inaction by the Biden Administration, we write to you again to reiterate these concerns and request that DOJ promptly complete a thorough investigation into the death of each child, including autopsies of the infants and the preservation of all collected evidence. Additionally, we request that you ensure these children receive a proper and respectful burial once the investigation is complete and all responsible parties have been brought to justice,” the members of Congress write.

“We cannot undo the grievous, barbaric acts that killed these children in their most vulnerable stage, but we equally cannot allow such lawlessness and inhumanity to evade our justice system any longer. Under President Trump’s and your leadership, we are hopeful that these children will finally receive the justice they deserve,” the GOP lawmakers conclude.

Read exclusive coverage by the Daily Wire here.

Read the full text of the letter here.

###",1,2026-07-22T07:34:13Z,2026-07-22T07:35:16Z
https://mikekennedy.house.gov/media/press-releases/kennedy-onder-bill-put-stop-all-transgender-medical-interventions-minors,"Kennedy, Onder bill to put a stop to all transgender medical interventions for minors nationwide passes House Judiciary Committee",2026-07-17,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,UT,Mike Kennedy,K000403,mikekennedy.house.gov,mikekennedy,https://mikekennedy.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Congressman Mike Kennedy (UT-03), Congressman Bob Onder’s (MO-03) Chloe Cole Act, a landmark bill that will put a stop to one of the most dangerous medical procedures in modern history has cleared a major hurdle and passed the House Judiciary Committee.

The Chloe Cole Act will stop transgender procedures for minors nationwide, specifically targeting puberty blockers, cross-sex hormones, and surgical procedures. The legislation is named after Chloe Cole, a prominent detransitioner who underwent a double mastectomy at age 15 and later advocated against transgender interventions.

“As both a physician and a legislator, my primary commitment has consistently been the safety and well-being of our children. We are seeing a disturbing trend where radical ideologies have overtaken evidence-based medicine, causing irreversible and terrible damage to children,” said Congressman Kennedy. “The evidence shows that puberty blockers, cross-sex hormones, and surgical procedures are extremely harmful and simply the wrong approach. I led the way in 2023 by passing landmark legislation in Utah that set the standard for states around the nation in stopping these evil practices, and the Chloe Cole Act takes that success to the national level. This is a legally durable, constitutionally sound, and clear path forward to stopping a practice that results in the mutilation of children under the guise of care.”

“As a member of Congress, a physician, a parent, and a concerned American, I am committed to safeguarding the health and well-being of our nation’s children,” said Congressman Bob Onder (MO-03). “That is why I am proud to reintroduce the Chloe Cole Act of 2026. The importance of this legislation is non-negotiable. This is a landmark bill that will permanently end one of the most dangerous and barbaric medical practices in modern history.”

When it comes to gender transition interventions — puberty blockers, hormones like testosterone and estrogen, and surgical procedures — evidence continues to show from American medical groups that this is the wrong approach to getting these kids the help they need.

Children should never be subjected to a medical system that pushes life altering medical procedures and hormone interventions that are incredibly harmful.

The Chloe Cole Act has support from the following organizations:

Heritage Action, Alliance Defending Freedom, Do No Harm, American Principles Project, Concerned Women for America Legislative Action, Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission, Independent Women’s Law Center, CatholicVote, Association of Christian Schools International, American College of Pediatricians.",1,2026-07-18T06:58:50Z,2026-07-18T07:00:34Z
https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-cosponsors-legislation-to-hold-purchasers-of-russian-oil-accountable,Curtis Cosponsors Legislation to Hold Purchasers of Russian Oil Accountable,2026-07-17,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,UT,John R. Curtis,C001114,www.curtis.senate.gov,curtis,https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator John Curtis (R-UT), member of the Foreign Relations Committee, cosponsored the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia Act of 2026, bipartisan legislation to hold major purchasers of Russian oil and gas accountable for supporting Russia’s war in Ukraine. Originally championed by the late Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC), the bill is led by Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Darline Graham (R-SC) and is supported by more than 60 other senators.

“As long as Vladimir Putin’s war machine is funded by countries willing to buy Russian oil and gas, the war in Ukraine will continue,”said Senator Curtis. “This bipartisan legislation gives a powerful tool to increase pressure on Russia, hold its enablers accountable, and ensure Russia does not win this war.”

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

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

Background:

Senator Lindsey Graham met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to discuss the effort last week and secured an agreement with the White House on Friday, before his death. Blumenthal and Lindsey Graham first introduced legislation in April 2025—cosponsored by Curtis—to bring primary and secondary sanctions against Russia and actors supporting Russia’s aggression in Ukraine.

The Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia Act of 2026 targets Russian officials, oligarchs, their family members, foreign persons, and Russian banks and financial institutions, as well as the Russian Shadow Fleet. The legislation also directs the President to impose up to 100 percent tariffs on imported goods from countries that buy the majority of Russian oil and gas, and enable Russian sanctions evasion. The new text limits these tariffs to the five largest importers of Russian crude oil and gas.

A one-pager on the legislation is available here, and the bill text is available here.",1,2026-07-18T06:58:50Z,2026-07-18T07:00:34Z
https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-kelly-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-help-support-young-mens-community-involvement-mentorship,"Curtis, Kelly Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Help Support Young Men’s Community Involvement, Mentorship",2026-07-17,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,UT,John R. Curtis,C001114,www.curtis.senate.gov,curtis,https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT) and Mark Kelly (D-AZ) introduced the Building Community in America Act, bipartisan legislation to expand pathways for Americans to serve as mentors, volunteers, and community leaders. The bill expands service participation among underrepresented populations, with a focus on men, in mentoring, coaching, youth development, and community-building activities.

“At a time when too many young men feel lonely and isolated, we should be creating more opportunities to mentor, volunteer, and connect to a great purpose,” said Senator Curtis. “By helping connect more young men to meaningful service and mentorship programs, our legislation will make our communities healthier, more resilient, and more connected.”

“Every kid deserves positive role models, and every community is stronger when more people step up to serve,” said Senator Kelly. “My years in the Navy taught me that service gives you purpose, responsibility and a stronger connection to your community. Right now, too many schools need teachers and too many mentoring programs need volunteers. We need more men to become teachers, mentors, and volunteers. When more people serve, our kids and our communities are better off.”

Background:

America’s communities are facing shortages of teachers, mentors, and volunteers at a time when many young people report feeling increasingly isolated and disconnected. Research shows volunteering strengthens social connections, improves mental and physical health, and increases civic engagement, yet men represent just 28 percent of AmeriCorps volunteers. Boys also face longer waitlists for mentors, and one in four boys and young men lacks an adult male mentor they can rely on.

The legislation addresses declining community engagement and increasing concerns about loneliness and disconnection among young people. Men today make up just 23 percent of public-school teachers and 28 percent of AmeriCorps volunteers, despite the important role teachers, mentors, and volunteers play in young people’s development.

The Building Community in America Act would:

Prioritize national service programs that recruit and train underrepresented participants, including men;

Expand opportunities to serve in youth mentoring, after-school programs, conservation, disaster response, public safety, violence interruption, reentry services, skilled trades, apprenticeships, and workforce development; and

Strengthen communities by encouraging more Americans to volunteer, mentor, and serve.",1,2026-07-18T06:58:50Z,2026-07-18T07:00:34Z
https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-merkley-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-enhance-aviation-safety-after-slackline-helicopter-tragedy,"Curtis, Merkley Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Enhance Aviation Safety After Slackline-Helicopter Tragedy",2026-07-17,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,UT,John R. Curtis,C001114,www.curtis.senate.gov,curtis,https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT) and Jeff Merkley (D-OR) introduced the McCarty and Heideman Air Safety Enhancement Act, bipartisan legislation that would direct the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to address urgent aviation safety issues by reviewing and updating existing safeguards for temporary obstructions in the low-altitude airspace, such as slacklines. The bill is also cosponsored by Senators Ron Wyden (D-OR), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), and Ruben Gallego (D-AZ).

“High-adventure activities in Utah, like slacklining, should not come at the cost of aviation safety, particularly for helicopter pilots who transport patients, fight wildfires, and support search and rescue missions,” said Senator Curtis. “Our bipartisan bill takes a practical look at where the FAA can modernize its policies, improve coordination, and reduce unnecessary risks so everyone sharing our airspace can do so more safely.”

“Strengthening aviation safety is something that both Republicans and Democrats can get behind, especially following the tragic slackline collision that took the lives of four Oregonians earlier this year,” said Senator Merkley. “The FAA must do all it can to keep the flying public safe, and our bipartisan McCarty and Heideman Air Safety Enhancement Act directs the agency to prioritize aviation safety. We must move swiftly to reduce the risk of any similar tragedy in the future.”

“Congress must act with urgency to ensure federal regulators are taking every possible step to prevent low-flying aircraft crashes with slacklines like the tragedy that cost the lives of four Oregonians earlier this year,” said Senator Wyden. “This bill would accomplish that goal by setting deadlines for the Federal Aviation Administration to update and improve its policies and regulations for low-altitude airspace safety.”

“David, Katelyn, Rachel, and Faith lost their lives in an Arizona helicopter crash that never should have happened. I’ve met with their family. No one should have to go through what they’ve been through. This bill makes sure the FAA acts quickly to prevent tragedies like this from happening again,” said Senator Kelly.

Background:

The introduction of the McCarty and Heideman Air Safety Enhancement Act follows a deadly helicopter crash caused by a collision with a slackline on January 2, 2026, that tragically claimed the lives of four Oregonians—David McCarty and his three nieces Rachel McCarty, Faith McCarty, and Katelyn Heideman. The bipartisan bill would instruct the FAA to use its authorities to review existing policies and regulations related to low-altitude airspace safety, including identifying appropriate policy, operational, or technical improvements such as updated requirements related to markings on slacklines.

The full text of the bill can be found here.

The bipartisan McCarty and Heideman Air Safety Enhancement Act is supported by Southern Utah University (SUU) Aviation, Vertical Aviation International (VAI), National Transportation Aviation Association (NATA), Balloon Federation of America (BFA), United Aerial Firefighters Association (UAFA), Air Medical Operators Association (AMOA), Association of Air Medical Services (AAMS), National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO), Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA), BackcountryPilot.org, American Spray Drone Coalition, Association for Uncrewed Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI), Life Flight Network, National Agricultural Aviation Association (NAAA), and Commercial Drone Alliance.

On behalf of the McCarty and Heideman family, “We are very grateful and excited to see the McCarty and Heideman Air Safety Enhancement Act be introduced. It is a crucial and urgent step towards making the airspace safer for pilots, passengers, cargo, and anyone using the airspace for work or recreation. We look forward to working on getting this across the finish line!”

“At Southern Utah University’s School of Aviation, we are preparing the next generation of pilots to operate safely in an increasingly complex National Airspace System. That requires more than strong flight training, it requires pilots to have timely, accurate, and easily accessible information about hazards in the airspace around them. The McCarty and Heideman Air Safety Enhancement Act takes a practical approach by improving transparency, strengthening coordination, and examining how temporary obstruction information can be integrated into the digital flight-planning tools pilots use every day. Safety of flight and protection of the National Airspace System must remain our highest priorities, and we appreciate Senator Curtis’s leadership on this important bipartisan legislation,” said Michael Mower, Executive Director, Chief Instructor Southern Utah University’s School of Aviation.

“Wildfire airspace overlaps public lands and recreation. Formal coordination with the FAA, Forest Service, BLM, and Park Service—paired with real outreach and right sized penalties for creating low altitude hazards—prevents tragedies before they happen. We strongly support this bill and urge swift passage,” said Paul Peterson, Executive Director, United Aerial Firefighters Association.

“The National Agricultural Aviation Association firmly endorses the McCarty and Heideman Air Safety Enhancement Act. The requirements this act places on the FAA will help ensure no more aviators operating in the low altitude airspace lose their life because of an unmarked slackline or other hazard strung across the landscape,” said Matthew Woolard, President, National Agricultural Aviation Association.

“The American Spray Drone Coalition (ASDC) strongly endorses the McCarty and Heideman Air Safety Enhancement Act, reflecting our deep commitment to promoting high standards of low-altitude airspace safety for both crewed and uncrewed aviators. By directing the FAA to review existing safety policies, this legislation takes a critical first step toward assessing necessary improvements for temporary obstruction markings and ensuring obstacle data can be seamlessly integrated into modern digital flight planning tools,” said Eric Ringer, President, American Spray Drone Association.",1,2026-07-18T06:58:50Z,2026-07-18T07:00:34Z
https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-secures-committee-approval-of-water-projects-for-utah-amid-intense-drought,Curtis Secures Committee Approval of Water Projects for Utah Amid Intense Drought,2026-07-15,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,UT,John R. Curtis,C001114,www.curtis.senate.gov,curtis,https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Video of the Senator’s Committee remarks can be found here, and a transcript is below.

Utah is in a record drought. Everywhere I go, it’s “water, water, water, water.” And I think in many cases, as [there are] many pressing problems we have as a country and as a state, water still rises to the top.

So, I’m very pleased, particularly for the communities of Ephraim and Centerville, who will benefit from this in their ability to bring clean water to the residents and otherwise would not be able to do it without this bill.

So, I’d like to thank the Committee, the staff, [and] the Ranking Member yourself for making this possible.

I’d also like to point out the Great Salt Lake and the impending needs there, and I look forward to furthering discussions with this Committee and other members to see how we can save a very, very important asset in the West.

It’s an environmental issue. It’s a standard of living issue. On many, many levels this is important and a very important role.

And what I’m pleased with the Great Salt Lake is that my state’s not just waiting for the federal government. I have philanthropic help. I have local community help. I have state government help. Everybody is leaning into this, and I’m grateful the federal government is willing to lean in as well.",1,2026-07-16T07:21:44Z,2026-07-16T07:23:13Z
https://www.lee.senate.gov/2026/7/lee-bill-authorizes-american-hackers-to-fight-foreign-cyber-attacks,Lee Bill Authorizes American Hackers to Fight Foreign Cyberattacks,2026-07-15,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,UT,Mike Lee,L000577,www.lee.senate.gov,mikelee,https://www.lee.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) today introduced legislation that would allow private American entities to prevent foreign cyberattacks against the United States. The Cyber Letters of Marque and Reprisal Act authorizes President Trump to issue letters of marque and reprisal to strategically deter and disrupt cyber operations against the U.S. The bill continues Senator Lee’s recent work to revive the use of traditional letters of marque and reprisal under the Constitution. Congressman Tim Burchett (R-TN-02) introduced the House version of this legislation.

“Our legislation allows American digital privateers to raid cartels, cybercriminals, and foreign adversaries, disrupting their operations and seizing their assets,” said Senator Mike Lee. “This is the ultimate in white hat hacking: stealing from America’s enemies at the direction of the President, and splitting the profits with the federal government.”

""Widespread cybercrime has become an existential threat to our national security,"" said Congressman Tim Burchett. ""Allowing private operators to aid the federal government in combatting these crimes will strengthen our ability to defend the United States against terrorism.""

Background

Article I, Section 8, Clause 11 of the Constitution authorizes Congress to “grant Letters of Marque and Reprisal.” Once a commonly used tool against piracy, letters of marque authorized private citizens to seize enemy vessels with their cargoes and crew. In December 2025, Senator Mike Lee introduced a bill authorizing President Trump to allow private citizens and groups to join in defending the United States from cartels on land and sea.

Building on that legislation, the Cyber Letters of Marque and Reprisal Act will allow the President to arm America’s hackers with authority to combat foreign cyberattacks against the United States. The bill authorizes the President to issue cyber letters of marque and reprisal to strategically deter and disrupt cyber operations against the U.S. and Americans, facilitate the return of stolen assets to Americans, and empower the private sector.

The Cyber Letters of Marque and Reprisal Act:

Authorizes the President or a designee to commission private persons to conduct cyber operations against designated cyberthreats through letters of marque and reprisal. The recipients of such letters are required to post a security bond in agreement with the President, and the recipients shall forfeit the posted bond if they violate the terms of the letter. The President may require up to 15% of the total assets recovered to fund bounty programs, which the President may facilitate for holders of such letters to claim. Holders of such letters are prohibited from knowingly conducting operations against U.S. citizens, required to log all their activities, and are limited to conducting only operations that are necessary to the mission.

Limits the definition of “designated cyberthreat” to foreign individuals and entities responsible for cyberattacks against United States persons or assets owned or controlled by United States persons.

Allows the President to issue guidance on qualifications to receive a cyber letter of marque and reprisal, as well as guidance for a holder of a cyber letter of marque and reprisal to operate within traditional domains.

Ensures that a holder of a cyber letter of marque and reprisal shall be authorized to conduct operations in traditional domains of warfare in addition to the cyber domain if Congress authorizes the use of letters of marque and reprisal for such domains.

Ensures that no cause of action authorized in a letter of marque and reprisal shall be maintained against a holder of such letter in any court.

Read exclusive coverage from The Daily Caller here.

Read the full bill text here.

###",1,2026-07-16T07:21:44Z,2026-07-16T07:23:13Z
https://www.lee.senate.gov/2026/7/lee-questions-rideshare-giants-uber-and-lyft-on-pricing-antitrust-concerns,"Lee Questions Rideshare Giants Uber and Lyft on Pricing, Antitrust Concerns",2026-07-15,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,UT,Mike Lee,L000577,www.lee.senate.gov,mikelee,https://www.lee.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) questioned rideshare giants Uber and Lyft with antitrust concerns following recent reports regarding their pricing. Senator Lee, who serves as Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Antitrust, Competition Policy, and Consumer Rights, questioned the companies on market power and concentration in the rideshare industry, transparency practices, information sharing, driver compensation, and the pricing of rides.

In part, Senator Lee wrote:

“As Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Antitrust, Competition Policy, and Consumer Rights, I take seriously Congress’s responsibility to ensure that markets remain competitive and that American consumers benefit from that competition. Given the scale of your platforms, and the importance of rideshare services to the Americans who depend on them, I write regarding concerns about rideshare pricing, driver compensation, and your use of algorithmic systems in app-based rideshare markets.

…

“The Subcommittee intends to monitor these issues closely and may seek additional information.”

Read the full text of the letter here.

###",1,2026-07-16T07:21:44Z,2026-07-16T07:23:13Z
https://mikekennedy.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-kennedy-advances-legislation-reduce-medical-billing-burden-native-american,Rep. Kennedy Advances Legislation to Reduce Medical Billing Burden on Native American Patients,2026-07-15,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,UT,Mike Kennedy,K000403,mikekennedy.house.gov,mikekennedy,https://mikekennedy.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – This week Congressman Kennedy’s legislation, H.R. 8658, the Indian Health Service Emergency Claims Parity Act, advanced through the House Natural Resources Committee. H.R. 8658 gives American Indian and Alaska Native patients a fair window to handle paperwork after a medical emergency by extending the Purchased/Referred Care (PRC) notification deadline from 72 hours to 15 days.

""When a family is dealing with a medical emergency, the last thing they should worry about is paperwork,"" said Congressman Mike Kennedy. ""As a physician, I've seen how chaotic those first hours and days can be. This bill gives American Indian and Alaska Native patients the time they need to focus on the emergency, not red tape, and protects them from medical bills they should never receive in the first place.""

“American Indian and Alaska Native patients facing a medical emergency should be focused on recovery, not paperwork,” said Chairman of the House Natural Resources Committee, Bruce Westerman. H.R. 8658 reduces unnecessary billing burdens and helps ensure Indian Health Services patients receive timely emergency care. I commend Rep. Kennedy for advancing practical legislation that improves health care delivery for tribal communities.”

Background

The Indian Health Service Emergency Claims Parity Act:

Extends the notification window from 72 hours to 15 days for Indian Health Service (IHS) patients who receive emergency care from a non-IHS provider.

Gives patients and families more time to notify IHS after an emergency, when paperwork is often unrealistic and medical needs are the immediate priority.

Helps protect American Indian and Alaska Native patients from being left with medical bills or collections because of a short administrative deadline.

Maintains the existing 30-day notification window for elderly or disabled patients

The Indian Health Service (IHS) is the federal agency responsible for providing medical care to American Indians and Alaska Natives. When IHS patients need care that cannot be provided directly through the IHS system, the Purchased/Referred Care (PRC) program covers the cost of care provided outside of IHS medical facilities. The PRC program must be notified of any request for authorization of payment for health care services from a non-IHS provider. If a patient fails to fulfill the notification requirement, the burden of cost falls on them.

Currently, when a patient receives emergency medical care from a non-IHS provider or at a non-IHS facility, the patient, someone acting on the patient's behalf, or the medical provider generally must notify the appropriate PRC authorizing official within 72 hours after treatment begins or after admission to the facility. If that notification requirement is not met, PRC payment may be denied, leaving patients at risk of receiving bills for care that should otherwise be covered.",1,2026-07-18T06:58:50Z,2026-07-18T07:00:34Z
https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-calls-for-countering-chinas-influence-in-western-hemisphere,Curtis Calls for Countering China’s Influence in Western Hemisphere,2026-07-14,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,UT,John R. Curtis,C001114,www.curtis.senate.gov,curtis,https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"At the hearing, Curtis highlighted recent successes following Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s engagement with Panama, including Panama’s decision to withdraw from China’s Belt and Road Initiative and the transfer of key Panama Canal port assets from Hong Kong-based operators to a U.S.-led consortium.

He also asked Ambassador Kozak how those developments could serve as a model for reducing China’s influence elsewhere in the hemisphere. Kozak emphasized that many countries have become increasingly aware of the risks associated with China’s Belt and Road Initiative, including predatory lending practices and strategic investments that undermine national sovereignty.

Video of Senator Curtis’ opening remarks and line of questioning can be found here, and a transcript of his opening remarks and initial questioning is below:

Opening remarks, as prepared:

This hearing is to examine how the Trump Administration’s National Security Strategy prioritizes the Western Hemisphere. In other words, what is the “Trump Corollary to the Monroe Doctrine,” as it has been termed.

For too long, American policy has treated our own neighborhood as an afterthought while our adversaries have treated it as an opportunity. The National Security Strategy makes a welcome correction by putting the Western Hemisphere near the center of American national security policy.

It is right that the United States should focus first on the safety, security, and prosperity of the American people, and frequently that means focusing on the security of our region. That means securing our border, stopping deadly drugs before they enter our communities, strengthening supply chains closer to home, and ensuring that hostile powers cannot control strategic assets in our own hemisphere.

In many ways, the real test of our Western Hemisphere strategy is whether it can blunt and roll back the presence of our global adversaries—China, Russia, and Iran—within our backyard. China has spent years building influence through ports, telecommunications, infrastructure, natural resources, surveillance technology, and diplomatic pressure.

Russia has used Venezuela, Cuba, and Nicaragua to project influence and challenge U.S. interests from within the hemisphere. Iran and its proxies have also sought footholds through malign networks and anti-American regimes—which is why the Committee has passed my bills, the No Hezbollah In Our Hemisphere Act and BANNED in Latin America Act, which push back on these networks. The National Security Strategy is right to say that non-hemispheric competitors should not be allowed to position forces, threatening capabilities, or control strategically vital assets in our hemisphere.

The Maduro raid was exactly this principle put into practice. Nicolas Maduro’s regime had been a platform for Russian, Chinese, Iranian, and criminal influence in our hemisphere. His regime destabilized neighbors, fueled migration, enriched corrupt networks, cooperated with malign outside powers, and allowed drug trafficking and other illicit activity to flourish.

We were not going to let what amounted to an illegitimate Russian puppet government corruptly cling to power and operate within our backyard. And now Maduro resides in a prison in New York. And now, we are beginning to see early signs of change inside Venezuela. Hundreds of political prisoners have been released, opposition figures are able to organize more openly, Venezuelan oil is no longer being exclusively used to support China, and there are signs of shifts within the governing structure, including the removal of some Maduro loyalists. Venezuela today is thankfully in a much different place than it was a year ago.

However, Congress is going to be interested in what the path now looks like for Venezuela from here to a democratic transition.

Progress has been made throughout the region on the diplomatic front as well. After Secretary Rubio’s visit, Panama announced that it would move to leave China’s Belt and Road Initiative. We also saw the announced sale of port assets operated by Hong Kong-based entities at both ends of the Panama Canal to a U.S.-led consortium.

Those developments should be seen as examples of the kind of strategic competition the United States can win when we are focused, engaged, and willing to use diplomatic and commercial tools together. We should encourage more countries in the region to take similar steps.

I am broadly supportive of this renewed focus on the Western Hemisphere and the recognition that what happens in our neighborhood directly affects the security of the American people. But support does not relieve us of our responsibility to conduct oversight. Congress has a duty to ask hard questions about strategy, legal authorities, coordination with regional partners, and what comes next. And we must ensure that a stronger focus on our own hemisphere does not come at the expense of American leadership elsewhere. Strength at home and in our neighborhood should reinforce—not replace—our engagement in Europe, the Indo-Pacific, and the Middle East.

The goal is not hemispheric seclusion, but strategic prioritization rooted in American strength.

I look forward to hearing from Ambassador Kozak on how the State Department is implementing this strategy, how we are coordinating across the interagency, and how Congress can help ensure the United States remains the partner of first choice in our own hemisphere.

Questioning:

Senator Curtis: After Secretary Rubio’s visit to Panama, they announced they would move to leave China’s Belt and Road Initiative. We also saw the announced sale of the Panama Canal port assets operated by Hong Kong-based entities to a U.S.-led consortium. Are there lessons we can draw from Panama about how the United States can use diplomacy, commercial engagement, and strategic clarity to roll back China’s influence in the region? And part two: Are there other countries in the hemisphere where you believe a similar approach might be equally successful?

Ambassador Michael Kozak: Yes. Thank you, Chairman. I would say there are some good lessons out of it. Each situation is somewhat different, but Panama had come to its own conclusion that being part of the Belt and Road Initiative was more liability than gain, so they told us they were ready to leave.

They also had their comptroller look into the way those port concessions had been granted and found a great deal of fraud and failure to implement the agreement. So, their Supreme Court took action there. I think what was key, though, was that China then attempted to intimidate them by doing inspections and detaining their Panama-flagged vessels in Chinese ports, and so on.

Panama needed a little backup and got it from countries in the region. The countries that joined the Shield of the Americas, by and large, issued statements standing in solidarity with Panama against that threat from China. But we’ve also seen, in other parts of the region, the Chinese try to move in. For example, in some places they’ll go directly to a university and say, “We’ll donate a telescope to you so you can do high-level research.” It turns out the telescope is really designed to spy on American satellites and other things like that. They bypass the national government. We’ve had some success talking directly with subnational groups. We’ve also had success dealing with national governments or urging national governments throughout the region to adopt investment-screening mechanisms.

Curtis: Yeah, let me bore down on that a little bit. Because you kind of hit on one of the questions I want to ask, which is this China strategy. You’ve mentioned a couple of things. I think the loans that become predatory and that they then foreclose on—I mean, there’s quite a long list. Your answer on Panama is interesting. I guess let me come back to this concept. If that’s what brought clarity to Panama, how do we bring clarity to these other countries—not just with elected officials, but with the voters, the constituents, who tend to see all of this coming from China and know the state’s not doing anything? The reality is that we have this little thing called the rule of law, and we do things differently. We’re far more transparent, and the way we help isn’t always seen the way China seems to be seen. So, what would you suggest, particularly from a congressional role, about how we get better clarity on what China is doing and also get better credit for what we’re doing when we’re doing good things?

Kozak: I think it’s super important to get people sensitized to this. At the beginning, governments didn’t realize how predatory the Chinese loan strategy was. They’ve now learned by adverse experience. What we’ve been trying to do—and this goes back to the last time I had this job—is publicize throughout the region just the facts. We’re not saying don’t engage with China. We still buy things from China. But we’re saying, “Look at what happens to you if you get into this kind of a deal. Don’t enter into it on their terms.”

That’s been quite successful, certainly at the national government level, though not as much with the populations at large. We’ve been trying to do more public relations, and I think anything Congress can do to bring focus to this would help.

One of the things we did, which I mentioned in my testimony, was these restrictions on visas. Basically, members of legislatures, judiciaries, labor unions, and others in foreign countries who take bribes from the Chinese—or other forms of compensation—and act as agents for China by pushing some of this activity… The Administration has said, if you’re going to do that, you’re not welcome here anymore. We’re not going to give you or your family visas to come to the United States. We tried this originally in Central America. It worked very well. We’ve now expanded it to the whole hemisphere.

Curtis: It seems like stronger coordination between Congress and State, as we go into those countries—knowing which messages to carry and which things to point out—might also be helpful.",1,2026-07-16T07:21:44Z,2026-07-16T07:23:13Z
https://blakemoore.house.gov/media/press-releases/utah-delegation-welcomes-president-trumps-monument-proclamation,Utah Delegation Welcomes President Trump's Monument Proclamation,2026-07-13,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,UT,Blake D. Moore,M001213,blakemoore.house.gov,blakemoore,https://blakemoore.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Utah federal delegation welcomes President Trump's action modifying the boundaries of the Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monuments. This decision represents a return to an appropriate application of the Antiquities Act as Congress intended.

When Congress passed the Antiquities Act in 1906, it authorized presidents to protect historic and scientific objects by reserving only ""the smallest area compatible with the proper care and management of the objects to be protected."" The law was never intended to place millions of acres under monument designation with the stroke of a pen.

For years, Utahns have voiced concerns that these monument designations were made without meaningful input from the local communities most directly affected. This updated designation better reflects the perspectives of stakeholders in Utah whose voices should be part of decisions affecting these public lands.

The lands outside the modified monument boundaries remain federal public lands and continue to be protected under existing federal laws. Today's action does not remove those protections. Instead, it better aligns the monument boundaries with the Antiquities Act while ensuring these landscapes remain available for responsible stewardship and multiple use.

The president’s action represents a step toward restoring the rule of law, respecting the intent of Congress, protecting Utah's remarkable cultural and natural resources, and ensuring that future land management decisions are guided by both the text of the Antiquities Act and the voices of the Utahns who know these lands best.

Rep. Blake Moore: “This has, unfortunately, become a back-and-forth issue between administrations. Today’s announcement takes into consideration years of local concern over restricted access and misuse of the Antiquities Act while still protecting our state’s natural and cultural resources for future generations. If the Antiquities Act is going to be used, it needs to be on the smallest area possible—that’s what we’re doing here.”

Sen. Mike Lee: “Today’s proclamation shows that President Trump listens to Utahns and respects the limits Congress placed on the Antiquities Act. For too long, presidents have weaponized monument designations to lock up millions of acres, close roads, restrict grazing, and cut rural communities off from lands their families have lived on and worked for generations. I thank the President for correcting this abuse and keeping his promise to the people of Utah.”

Sen. John Curtis: “President Trump’s executive action restores a more balanced approach to managing Utah’s public lands and shows a willingness by this Administration to listen to the state of Utah. While today’s announcement is an important step in the right direction and a more appropriate interpretation of the Antiquities Act, the responsibility remains with Congress to do what executive orders cannot: bring stakeholders together, work through disagreements, and enact lasting solutions. This approach worked in Emery County, which serves as a strong example to build on.”

Rep. Burgess Owens: ""The Antiquities Act is crystal clear: presidential designations meant to protect objects should be 'confined to the smallest area compatible' with the proper care and management of those objects. That mandate was ignored. The mess started with Bill Clinton, who acted from a seat in Arizona with his back turned to Utah. It was compounded by Barack Obama in the waning hours of his presidency. Together, they created monuments larger than Rhode Island and Delaware combined which is an unmistakable violation of the 'smallest area compatible' standard. I am grateful for President Trump's actions today, and for his willingness to listen to the Utah communities who cherish and honor these landscapes. Utah deserves leaders who respect the rule of law. Today, accountability prevailed.""

Rep. Celeste Maloy: ""Utahns have long supported protecting our state's extraordinary cultural and natural resources. This action honors that goal while following the law Congress passed and giving greater consideration to the people who know these lands best.”

Rep. Mike Kennedy: “The people of Utah understand these lands better than any distant bureaucracy ever could. Decisions about how they are managed and protected should rest with the communities who live closest to them. The Antiquities Act was written to protect specific and important areas, and honoring its intent is the rational way to safeguard these treasures while giving Utahns a real voice in their future.”

###",1,2026-07-14T07:08:55Z,2026-07-14T07:10:52Z
https://maloy.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=2089,Utah Delegation Welcomes President Trump's Monument Proclamation,2026-07-13,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,UT,Celeste Maloy,M001228,maloy.house.gov,maloy,https://maloy.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — The Utah federal delegation welcomes President Trump's action modifying the boundaries of the Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monuments. This decision represents a return to an appropriate application of the Antiquities Act as Congress intended.

When Congress passed the Antiquities Act in 1906, it authorized presidents to protect historic and scientific objects by reserving only ""the smallest area compatible with the proper care and management of the objects to be protected."" The law was never intended to place millions of acres under monument designation with the stroke of a pen. For years, Utahns have voiced concerns that these monument designations were made without meaningful input from the local communities most directly affected. This updated designation better reflects the perspectives of stakeholders in Utah whose voices should be part of decisions affecting these public lands.

The lands outside the modified monument boundaries remain federal public lands and continue to be protected under existing federal laws. Today's action does not remove those protections. Instead, it better aligns the monument boundaries with the Antiquities Act while ensuring these landscapes remain available for responsible stewardship and multiple use.

The president’s action represents a step toward restoring the rule of law, respecting the intent of Congress, protecting Utah's remarkable cultural and natural resources, and ensuring that future land management decisions are guided by both the text of the Antiquities Act and the voices of the Utahns who know these lands best.

Quotes:

Sen. Mike Lee: “Today’s proclamation shows that President Trump listens to Utahns and respects the limits Congress placed on the Antiquities Act. For too long, presidents have weaponized monument designations to lock up millions of acres, close roads, restrict grazing, and cut rural communities off from lands their families have lived on and worked for generations. I thank the President for correcting this abuse and keeping his promise to the people of Utah.”

Sen. John Curtis: “President Trump’s executive action restores a more balanced approach to managing Utah’s public lands and shows a willingness by this Administration to listen to the state of Utah. While today’s announcement is an important step in the right direction and a more appropriate interpretation of the Antiquities Act, the responsibility remains with Congress to do what executive orders cannot: bring stakeholders together, work through disagreements, and enact lasting solutions. This approach worked in Emery County, which serves as a strong example to build on.”

Rep. Burgess Owens: ""The Antiquities Act is crystal clear: presidential designations meant to protect objects should be 'confined to the smallest area compatible' with the proper care and management of those objects. That mandate was ignored. The mess started with Bill Clinton, who acted from a seat in Arizona with his back turned to Utah. It was compounded by Barack Obama in the waning hours of his presidency. Together, they created monuments larger than Rhode Island and Delaware combined which is an unmistakable violation of the 'smallest area compatible' standard. I am grateful for President Trump's actions today, and for his willingness to listen to the Utah communities who cherish and honor these landscapes. Utah deserves leaders who respect the rule of law. Today, accountability prevailed.""

Rep. Blake Moore: “This has, unfortunately, become a back-and-forth issue between administrations. Today’s announcement takes into consideration years of local concern over restricted access and misuse of the Antiquities Act while still protecting our state’s natural and cultural resources for future generations. If the Antiquities Act is going to be used, it needs to be on the smallest area possible—that’s what we’re doing here.”

Rep. Celeste Maloy: ""Utahns have long supported protecting our state's extraordinary cultural and natural resources. This action honors that goal while following the law Congress passed and giving greater consideration to the people who know these lands best.”",1,2026-07-14T07:08:55Z,2026-07-14T07:10:52Z
https://www.lee.senate.gov/2026/7/lee-applauds-trump-s-actions-reining-in-monument-overreach,Lee Applauds Trump’s Actions Reining in Monument Overreach,2026-07-13,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,UT,Mike Lee,L000577,www.lee.senate.gov,mikelee,https://www.lee.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-Utah), Chairman of the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, applauded President Donald J. Trump’s proclamation modifying the boundaries of Bears Ears and Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monuments.

“Today’s proclamation shows that President Trump listens to Utahns and respects the limits Congress placed on the Antiquities Act,” said Chairman Mike Lee. “For too long, presidents have weaponized monument designations to lock up millions of acres, close roads, restrict grazing, and cut rural communities off from lands their families have lived on and worked for generations. I thank the President for correcting this abuse and keeping his promise to the people of Utah.”

The proclamation reduces Bears Ears National Monument to approximately 121,000 acres and Grand Staircase–Escalante National Monument to approximately 182,000 acres. The revised boundaries will allow federal agencies to concentrate limited personnel and funding on the cultural, historic, and scientific objects identified within the proclamation.

Lands outside the modified boundaries remain in federal ownership and continue to be protected under existing federal and state laws. The proclamation will provide greater access for recreation, preserve historic roads and trails, and give ranching families and rural communities greater certainty about the lands on which they depend.

Congress enacted the Antiquities Act in 1906 to allow presidents to protect historic landmarks and other objects of historic or scientific interest. The law requires monument reservations to be confined to “the smallest area compatible with the proper care and management of the objects to be protected.”

Previous designations placed approximately 3.2 million acres within the two monuments—more land than all seven of Utah’s other national monuments and all five of its national parks combined and about the combined size of the states of Rhode Island and Connecticut. Those sweeping boundaries strained federal staffing and law-enforcement resources while increasing the burdens placed on rural counties responsible for search-and-rescue operations and other public services.

President Trump’s action returns the monuments to a focused and manageable scale, improves the ability of land managers to protect significant resources, and restores a meaningful voice for the Utah communities closest to these lands.

“These modified boundaries don’t diminish protection, they focus it,” said Governor Spencer Cox. “The new proclamations focus management efforts to better preserve the cultural and archaeological resources that make this part of Utah so special. Management matters, and we are optimistic about the future preservation of Utah’s historic, cultural, and scientific resources in these areas.”

“President Trump’s executive action restores a more balanced approach to managing Utah’s public lands and shows a willingness by this Administration to listen to the state of Utah,” said Senator John Curtis. “While today’s announcement is an important step in the right direction and a more appropriate interpretation of the Antiquities Act, the responsibility remains with Congress to do what executive orders cannot: bring stakeholders together, work through disagreements, and enact lasting solutions. This approach worked in Emery County, which serves as a strong example to build on.”

""Utahns have long supported protecting our state's extraordinary cultural and natural resources,"" said Representative Celeste Maloy. ""This action honors that goal while following the law Congress passed and giving greater consideration to the people who know these lands best.”

""The Antiquities Act is crystal clear: presidential designations meant to protect objects should be 'confined to the smallest area compatible' with the proper care and management of those objects. That mandate was ignored,” said Representative Burgess Owens. “The mess started with Bill Clinton, who acted from a seat in Arizona with his back turned to Utah. It was compounded by Barack Obama in the waning hours of his presidency. Together, they created monuments larger than Rhode Island and Delaware combined which is an unmistakable violation of the 'smallest area compatible' standard. I am grateful for President Trump's actions today, and for his willingness to listen to the Utah communities who cherish and honor these landscapes. Utah deserves leaders who respect the rule of law. Today, accountability prevailed.""

“The people of Utah understand these lands better than any distant bureaucracy ever could,” said Representative Mike Kennedy. “Decisions about how they are managed and protected should rest with the communities who live closest to them. The Antiquities 1``111Act was written to protect specific and important areas, and honoring its intent is the rational way to safeguard these treasures while giving Utahns a real voice in their future.”

“This has, unfortunately, become a back-and-forth issue between administrations,” said Representative Blake Moore. “Today’s announcement takes into consideration years of local concern over restricted access and misuse of the Antiquities Act while still protecting our state’s natural and cultural resources for future generations. If the Antiquities Act is going to be used, it needs to be on the smallest area possible—that’s what we’re doing here.”

“The Antiquities Act was never meant to be a tool for locking up millions of acres with the stroke of a pen. Today’s action takes a major step in the right direction of appropriately sized monuments allowing responsible stewardship that works with our communities, not against them. Utah has fought hard to enforce Antiquities Act limits on monument size, and we will continue fighting to ensure the law is applied faithfully — and that Utahns have lasting certainty about the lands they call home,” said Attorney General Derek Brown. “But our work isn’t finished. The long-term answer isn’t found in which president happens to occupy the White House. The answer lies in honoring the textual limits the Antiquities Act already places on monument sizes. Utah will keep pressing until that’s the reality, not just the ideal.”

“Today is an exciting day for the state of Utah and we applaud President Trump’s thoughtful action to modify the boundaries of Bears Ears and Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monuments,” said Utah Speaker Mike Schultz. “These changes will improve management, public access, and recreation opportunities while respecting the traditions, livelihoods, and voices of local communities. By focusing resources where they are needed most, we will ensure these lands are preserved for current and future generations. We continue to push for a long-term solution so these lands are not subject to political back-and-forth. These remarkable places deserve stability, protection, and thoughtful stewardship for decades to come.”

“We don’t have to choose between protecting our heritage and supporting our communities,” said Utah Senate President J. Stuart Adams. “We appreciate the Trump Administration’s recognition that local communities deserve a meaningful voice in the stewardship of the public lands that shape their way of life. Today’s action provides a more focused approach to preserving some of Utah’s most treasured landscapes while ensuring these lands remain accessible to the people who rely on them. Historic roads and trails will remain open, ranching families will have certainty, and Utahns and visitors will continue to enjoy these areas through hiking, hunting, camping, biking and other longstanding recreational opportunities. These changes also give land managers greater flexibility to reduce wildfire risk and combat invasive species. By focusing protections where they matter most, we can preserve these cultural and natural treasures while honoring the traditions and livelihoods that have long been part of this region.”

###",1,2026-07-14T07:08:55Z,2026-07-14T07:10:52Z
https://owens.house.gov/posts/owens-introduces-the-less-bureaucracy-better-tribal-education-act,"Owens Introduces the Less Bureaucracy, Better Tribal Education Act ",2026-07-10,2026,2026-07,Republican,House,UT,Burgess Owens,O000086,owens.house.gov,owens,https://owens.house.gov/press,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Rep. Burgess Owens (UT-04) introduced the Less Bureaucracy, Better Tribal Education Act (H.R. 9604), legislation that permanently moves federal Native education and workforce training programs out of the Department of Education and into the Department of the Interior, the agency that already carries the federal trust responsibility to Tribal communities. The bill is part of the House Education and Workforce Committee’s “Less Bureaucracy, Better Education” legislative package to right-size the Department of Education and put students ahead of bureaucracy.

“President Trump was elected with a mandate to restore common sense and accountability to a bloated federal bureaucracy and cut out the waste, fraud, and abuse found across government. In 1980, when the Department of Education was founded, it came with a promise of improved education and outcomes. 46 years later, and $3 trillion of taxpayer funds later, we can see that didn’t happen. With my bill and the others included in the “Less Bureaucracy, Better Education” package, we’re putting the focus back on students, families, and results and cutting unnecessary layers of Washington bureaucracy that have failed them. The era of decline is over.

Rep. Burgess Owens (UT-04).

“For decades, Washington has measured success by how much government grows instead of how well students do. The legislative package reflects a simple principle: education policy should be focused on helping students succeed—not preserving a federal bureaucracy for its own sake. Rather than allowing unnecessary layers of Washington bureaucracy stand between families and the services they rely on, the bills would transfer key statutory authorities to agencies better equipped to carry them out while maintaining continuity for students and stakeholders.”

Chairman Tim Walberg (MI-05)

BACKGROUND

On September 30, 2025, the Department of Education and the Department of the Interior entered into an Interagency Agreement to share administration of Native education and workforce training programs. The Less Bureaucracy, Better Tribal Education Act builds on that agreement by permanently transferring these programs to the Department of the Interior and officially ending the Department of Education’s administration of them.

Before any program transfers, the bill requires the Department of Education to consult with Indian Tribes and publish a written response, ensuring Tribal voices are heard. Following that consultation, the bill moves Native education programs currently spread across the Department of Education back to the Department of Interior, which already holds the federal government’s trust responsibility to Tribal Nations and works with these communities every day.

The bill also protects continuity for students and families. Existing grants, contracts, and proceedings continue uninterrupted, transferred funds may be used only for their original purpose, and the Office of Management and Budget must certify that the Act creates no net increase in federal employees.

Following the consultation with the Tribes, the programs housed in the Department of Education that serve Native Americans within the Offices of Elementary and Secondary Education, Postsecondary Education, Special Education and Rehabilitative Services, and Career, Technical, and Adult Education are transferred to the Department of the Interior.

###",1,2026-07-11T07:10:48Z,2026-07-11T07:14:29Z
https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-visits-wildfire-site-urges-passage-of-fix-our-forests-act,"Curtis Visits Wildfire Site, Urges Passage of Fix Our Forests Act",2026-07-10,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,UT,John R. Curtis,C001114,www.curtis.senate.gov,curtis,https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"The full transcript is below, and video can be found here.

I’m in Juab County today very near the city of Eureka, where we’ve just had two of our very big fires, and these are under control and doing well.

I had a chance to be briefed by BLM, by wildland firefighters, by the Forest Service, and by the city itself. I’m telling you, one of the things that was just touching was to hear the mayor talk about how he thought his entire city was going to burn, and how they were able to bring resources in—a lot of federal resources—to protect the city and a lot of the resources in the county.

It’s been very interesting. As you all know, we’ve got these severe fires across the entire state.

I’m working really hard on a bill. It’s called Fix Our Forests. It dramatically changes the way we manage our federal lands and our forests—not just federal, but all of our forests—before the fires. It changes the way we fight the fires and then the way we deal with the aftermath. And I’m hoping we can get that bill across the finish line. It’s called Fix Our Forests. Follow it and follow us.

Background:

Utah is experiencing one of its most challenging wildfire seasons, underscoring the need for policies that reduce hazardous fuels, improve coordination across jurisdictions, and accelerate recovery efforts after fires are contained. The bipartisan Fix Our ForestsAct would reform how forests are managed before wildfires occur, improve the nation’s wildfire response, and strengthen post-fire restoration efforts. The legislation streamlines hazardous fuels reduction projects, expands cross-boundary collaboration, and helps federal land managers respond more quickly to growing wildfire threats.",1,2026-07-11T07:10:48Z,2026-07-11T07:14:29Z
https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-religious-liberty-relies-on-civility-mutual-respect,"Curtis: Religious Liberty Relies on Civility, Mutual Respect",2026-07-05,2026,2026-07,Republican,Senate,UT,John R. Curtis,C001114,www.curtis.senate.gov,curtis,https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"The Senator’s remarks were delivered prior to Fourth of July celebrations and his 250-mile walk to commemorate the United States’ semiquincentennial.

Video can be found here, and the remarks as prepared for delivery can be found below:

Almost two hundred and fifty years ago, fifty-six delegates to the Second Continental Congress affixed their signatures to the most influential document in the history of human rights—the American Declaration of Independence. Over succeeding generations, more than one hundred other nations would model their own declarations of independence with statements that followed the American pattern of 1776.

It proclaimed liberty as an inalienable right, in what Walter Isaacson has called “the greatest sentence ever written.” Among our inalienable rights, the document declared, are life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Defining “liberty,” giving definition, substance and legal guarantees of that right, has been one of America’s greatest ongoing commitments to the betterment of humanity.

And at the forefront of that pantheon of liberties the Declaration affirms has been the right to believe and practice religion according to the sacred dictates of conscience. Four decades ago, 160 of 170 international constitutions were modeled, in whole or in part, on the American model. Freedom of religion is guaranteed—in principle if not in fact—in 97% of constitutions.

When the first colonists arrived in the New World, religious freedom existed in theory (like that of John Locke) but not in political practice. Roger Williams founded Rhode Island on the principle of “soul conscience” in 1636, and 150 years later, in 1786, Thomas Jefferson authored the pioneering Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom. “Almighty God hath created the mind free,” he wrote, “and manifested his supreme will that free it shall remain.” The state legislation he proposed therefore decreed that no person “shall … suffer on account of his religious opinions or beliefs … But … all [persons] shall be free to profess … their opinion in matters of religion.”

It was a long journey from Jamestown and Plymouth Rock to that Virginia Statute, the U. S. Constitution, and the Bill of Rights. America has made great progress, but the road has been at times harrowing for those people at the margins of our mainstream. Quakers were hanged in Massachusetts in 1659; Baptists were imprisoned in Virginia in the 1770s; Catholic convents and schools were burned in 1834; my own people, the Latter-day Saints, were mobbed and murdered in Missouri and Illinois in the decade to follow; and Jewish people have been the victims of discrimination and violence from the founding to the present.

One of the lessons to be learned from this history is that you can legislate religious protections, but you cannot legislate respect or compassion or bonds of charity. Yet religious freedom hinges on these virtues. Our public discourse, however, has never tipped so precariously into what Arthur Brooks has called “a culture of contempt.” If you think you sense something alarming in the air, the statistics say you are correct. A March 2026 Pew Survey reveals the distressing fact that Americans view their fellow Americans with “more hostility and suspicion than is the case in any democracy surveyed.” The United States is the only place … surveyed where more adults describe the morality and ethics of others living in the country as bad (53%) than as good (47%).

We can do better. We can be better.

Yes, as members of this national community, we have the right to espouse our values—religious, moral, or political—without hindrance or constraint. That also means we must accord to others the right to espouse their values, without hindrance or constraint. Religious freedom is distinctly entwined with pluralism, because the free exercise of religion presupposes a mosaic of differing values and life orientations. The words “kindness,” “civility,” and “charity” nowhere appear in our Constitution or our Declaration of Independence, whose anniversary we will commemorate next week.

That is because those values were presupposed by the Founders. This grand experiment in democracy required for its organization, and requires for its continuation, a willingness to build bridges of understanding as well as defend principles to which we are committed. Dr. Matthew Holland has written of how “civic charity” was deeply embedded in the thought of John Winthrop, leader of the Massachusetts Bay Colony; of Thomas Jefferson, America’s “apostle of religious liberty;” and of Abraham Lincoln, who so powerfully invoked the “better angels of our nature” at a time of national crisis.

We will never achieve consensus on the particulars of our religious commitments—or our lack of religious commitments. Nor should we.

Our pluralism is a source of our strength and should be a source of pride. However, we can honor our founding principles by returning to a particular kind of faith they did have in common. Faith in the essential goodness of one another. The psychologist Jamil Zaki has written, “Cynicism is the lack of faith in people; skepticism is the lack of faith in our assumptions.” Charity is the only way whereby we flourish in our differences even as we work together for a more perfect union.",1,2026-07-06T08:59:18Z,2026-07-06T09:01:25Z
https://owens.house.gov/posts/rep-owens-introduces-strong-act,Rep Owens Introduces STRONG Act,2026-06-29,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,UT,Burgess Owens,O000086,owens.house.gov,owens,https://owens.house.gov/press,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Rep. Burgess Owens (UT-04) introduced the “Support Accurate and Thorough Data Collection and Recognition of Our Nation’s Growing Number of Strength and Conditioning Coaches Act,” or the STRONG Act, to ensure that strength and conditioning (S&C) coaches are properly classified within the Federal Standard Occupational Classifications System (SOC).

The SOC is the foundational dataset that the Bureau of Labor Statistics and other federal agencies use to track labor statistics and workforce participation. Currently, S&C Coaches are grouped under broader categories such as “Exercise Trainers and Group Fitness Instructors” (SOC 39-9031) or “Coaches and Scouts,” (SOC 27-2022), failing to recognize their specialized role.

“After spending 10 seasons in the NFL, culminating in a Super Bowl Championship, I understand the grit, hard work, and determination it takes to compete at the highest levels.” Rep Owens said. “Every step of the way, the men and women responsible for our physical performance were as specialized and essential as any coach on the staff. Strength and conditioning coaches are far more than fitness instructors. They hold advanced degrees, nationally accredited certifications, and hundreds of hours of supervised experience. They build athletes and champions. They build warfighters and first responders. They ensure everyone they serve can perform at the top of their game. The STRONG Act costs the taxpayer nothing and delivers long-overdue recognition to a profession that has earned it.”

What the STRONG Act Does

The STRONG Act directs the OMB Director to consider establishing a new dedicated occupational code for strength and conditioning coaches during the next revision of the SOC system, preferably within the “Healthcare Practitioners and Technical Occupations” group. If OMB declines to establish the code, it must submit a formal report to the House Committee on Education and the Workforce and the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Government Affairs explaining its reasoning within 30 days of the SOC revision. The bill authorizes no new funding and is a targeted, data-driven fix that costs taxpayers nothing.

Why it Matters

Strength and conditioning coaches are currently lumped under broad federal categories like “Exercise Trainers and Group Fitness Instructors” or “Coaches and Scouts.” These classifications fail to recognize their specialized role and distort data on employment, wages, job growth, and workforce needs.

A dedicated SOC code would enable better workforce planning, stronger career pathways, more accurate research on injury prevention and performance, and proper alignment of education and training programs. This change will not result in a single dollar of new federal spending.

Support for the STRONG Act

Devan McConnell CPSS, CSCS, High Performance Director, NHL Utah Mammoth

“Strength and conditioning coaches are essential members of the locker room and community, helping athletes maximize performance, enhance durability, and meet the demands of elite competition. The STRONG Act acknowledges the expertise, education, and professional standards required to effectively serve athletes, tactical, and active populations. Recognizing strength and conditioning coaches as a profession is an important step toward advancing the field and supporting the individuals dedicated to improving human performance. I am proud to support this legislation.”

National Strength and Conditioning Association

“The National Strength and Conditioning Association enthusiastically supports the STRONG Act. This legislation would recognize the vital work that strength and conditioning coaches do with athletes, law enforcement, first responders, members of the United States military and other active individuals to improve physical performance and minimize the risk of injury. Strength and conditioning coaches are a unique occupation deserving of inclusion in the Standard Occupational Classification system and we appreciate Congressman Owens’ leadership on this issue.”

American Physical Therapy Association

“The American Physical Therapy Association endorses the STRONG Act and thanks Rep. Owens’ sponsorship of the bill,” said APTA president Kyle Covington, PT, DPT, PhD, “APTA and NSCA have a shared commitment to the clients and athletes our professions both serve. This legislation will assist in providing needed workforce data to assist with workforce planning and development.”

National Athletic Trainers’ Association

“The National Athletic Trainers’ Association stands alongside the National Strength and Conditioning Association in support of the STRONG Act and appreciates Congressman Owens’ leadership on this effort. This workforce initiative will provide valuable data to help strengthen, support and advance human performance and athlete outcomes.”

Trevor Short, PhD, CSCS, CPSS, Senior Associate Athletics Director for Health, Wellness, and Performance, Utah State University

“Strength and conditioning professionals play a critical role in improving performance, reducing injury risk, and supporting the long-term health of athletes, first responders and military personnel. The STRONG Act recognizes the specialized education, certification, and professional standards required in this field. Because of its impact, it should be recognized and supported as a legitimate career pathway. I fully support this bill.”

###",1,2026-06-30T06:29:10Z,2026-06-30T06:30:42Z
https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-kaine-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-counter-china-secure-supply-chains,"Curtis, Kaine Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Counter China, Secure Supply Chains",2026-06-29,2026,2026-06,Republican,Senate,UT,John R. Curtis,C001114,www.curtis.senate.gov,curtis,https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT) and Tim Kaine (D-VA), members of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, introduced the Securing Partner Supply Chains Act, bipartisan legislation to secure supply chains and counter China’s growing influence. The legislation would help U.S. allies and partners build tools to protect critical infrastructure, supply chains, and sensitive sectors from malign foreign investment and strategic influence operations.

“The Chinese Communist Party is using economic coercion to gain influence over critical industries and infrastructure around the world, and the United States cannot afford to confront these challenges alone,” said Senator Curtis. “Our bipartisan bill will help our allies and partners develop the tools they need to identify and stop malign foreign investment before it threatens economic security or other shared interests.”

“It’s critical for U.S. national security that our partners and allies have safeguards in place to adequately screen foreign investments, especially as China continues to expand its global footprint,” said Senator Kaine. “This bipartisan legislation would help our partners and allies build their own capacity to screen foreign investments and protect their economies, and help ensure China isn’t able to control critical infrastructure and supply chains that the U.S. and our partners and allies rely on.”

Background:

There is a significant gap in ability among the U.S. and its partners, particularly in the Western Hemisphere, to adequately screen foreign investment into critical sectors. The lack of safeguards leaves supply chains, ports, and critical infrastructure open to strategic acquisition and exploitation by China and other adversaries. For example, Chinese state-owned enterprises operate port facilities in Mexico, Brazil, and Panama, and the Chinese government has invested heavily in critical mineral sectors in countries like Bolivia.

The Securing Partner Supply Chains Act would:

Establish a State Department-led Initiative on Foreign Investment Screening to help U.S. allies and partners develop investment screening mechanisms similar to the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS).

Provide technical assistance, training, regulatory guidance, and coordination support to partner governments seeking to protect critical infrastructure, supply chains, and sensitive sectors from malign foreign investment.

Strengthen U.S. national security and economic resilience by helping partner countries identify and mitigate strategic investments tied to adversarial actors, particularly the People’s Republic of China.",1,2026-06-30T06:29:10Z,2026-06-30T06:30:42Z
https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-rosen-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-protect-patients-access-to-preferred-doctor-lower-drug-costs,"Curtis, Rosen Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Protect Patients’ Access to Preferred Doctor, Lower Drug Costs",2026-06-29,2026,2026-06,Republican,Senate,UT,John R. Curtis,C001114,www.curtis.senate.gov,curtis,https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT) and Jacky Rosen (D-NV) introduced the Protecting Patient Access Act, bipartisan legislation to protect patients’ access to their preferred doctors and lower out-of-pocket drug costs. The bill would allow patients to change insurance plans mid-year if their doctor or other medical provider is no longer in-network, or if their out-of-pocket drug cost increases during the year. This would apply to Medicare prescription drug plans, Medicare Advantage, and individual market plans for patients of all ages.

“When a Part D plan makes significant changes between enrollment periods, seniors shouldn’t be forced to live with a plan they didn’t choose for the rest of the year,” said Senator Curtis. “By opening enrollment following a significant plan change, our commonsense, bipartisan legislation ensures American seniors are insulated from uncertainty and receive the care they need and have paid for.”

“Under the current system, Nevadans can be caught off-guard by mid-year increases to prescription drug prices and changes to their in-network doctors. It’s just common sense to allow patients to change their medical insurance to continue seeing the doctors they trust and protect them from getting priced out from the life-saving medicine they need,” said Senator Rosen. “It is crucial that Nevadans have access to the best and most affordable health care options available, which is why I am proud to introduce this bipartisan bill. I promise to continue working across the aisle to ensure that everyone has access to the life-saving care that they need.”

“The American Academy of Family Physicians strongly supports the Preserving Patient Access Act, which will help patients prioritize their health and ensure relationships are maintained with trusted physicians and that access to necessary medications go uninterrupted,” said Sarah C. Nosal, MD, FAAFP, President of the American Academy of Family Physicians. “This legislation will allow patients relying on Medicare to change plans when a physician moves out of network or when drug coverage changes and becomes unaffordable. It will also protect continuity of care, strengthen the patient-physician relationship and help Medicare patients stay on track with the care and treatments needed to be well and stay healthy.”

Background:

The Protecting Patient Access Act would help ensure patients are not locked into health plans that no longer meet their health care needs after enrollment. The legislation creates a special enrollment period for Medicare Advantage, Medicare Part D, and individual market enrollees when their plan makes significant mid-year changes—such as removing a trusted doctor from its network or dropping coverage for a prescription drug they rely on. By allowing beneficiaries to switch to a plan that better meets their needs, the bill protects continuity of care and helps patients maintain access to the providers and medications they depend on.",1,2026-06-30T06:29:10Z,2026-06-30T06:30:42Z
https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/icymi-curtis-discusses-250-mile-walk-for-americas-250th-on-fox-news,ICYMI: Curtis Discusses 250-Mile Walk for America’s 250th on Fox News,2026-06-29,2026,2026-06,Republican,Senate,UT,John R. Curtis,C001114,www.curtis.senate.gov,curtis,https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"The full transcript of the interview is below, and video can be found here.

Trey Gowdy: Welcome back to Sunday Night, America. Americans are honoring the 250th anniversary of our independence. I’ll probably celebrate indoors because it’s 90 degrees in South Carolina, watching sports, but not Utah Senator John Curtis. He’s walking 250 miles across his beautiful state, a mile to celebrate each year, 30 miles a day, as he travels through communities across the Beehive State, and he wants you to join him on his journey. We caught up with Senator Curtis earlier today during his walk. Welcome, Senator. I got to be honest, I’m not sure my senior senator has walked 30 miles in his life, and you’re walking 30 miles a day. What are you seeing and hearing in your beautiful state?

Senator Curtis: Well, first of all, Trey, you mentioned it’s too hot there this morning. I woke up to 44 degrees, and so heat is not a problem here, but I’ll tell you, I am seeing the most patriotic, hard-working, family-loving, faith-filled people. And it’s just been so inspiring for me to be on the road and to meet these people.

Gowdy: You know, Senator, if I’m right, you were born in Utah, and you’ve been there your whole life, aside from your mission in Taiwan. Are you learning new things about your state and your country that maybe even you didn’t know as a long-time resident of Utah?

Curtis: Well, you know what, you’re right, and that’s why I wish more of my colleagues could do this, because you really get to know people. And I’ll tell you what, I’ve met some of the best people, a lot of the walk thus far has been in really rural Utah, part of the country where my mother grew up, and these are hardworking people, and they’re good people. They’re people that care about their families, they care about the country. I haven’t met a single person who doesn’t love this country.

Gowdy: You know, Senator, so much I think of what our viewers see just on a daily basis is negativity. They’re negative stories, it’s crime. I am thinking and hoping and expecting that you are seeing the real side of America on this walk, that it’s really 95 percent really, really good people. They just don’t make the news.

Curtis: You are so right. Yes, I wish your crews could come with me on the whole journey, because the country would see people who are good at heart, who actually like each other, who care about each other, who serve each other. That’s one of our biggest values here in Utah, is taking care of each other and making sure that we’re taking care of our brother, and I’ll tell you, I see that everywhere I turn.

And really, the whole purpose for this hike was to highlight these values, because, like you said, too much for our time, we are talking about things that get us off track and kind of make us have animosity in our hearts.

Gowdy: Senator, my home state was one of the original 13. Your home state joined the union a little bit later, is there a story about our founding or a story about Utah joining the United States that especially inspires you?

Curtis: Oh, I love that question. Yes, the answer is, you know, George Washington and our founders, they fought, they sacrificed, and they won our freedom. Seventy years later, my ancestors came out to Utah in pursuit of that freedom, and the reason I think that story is important is every generation has to sacrifice and has to be willing to sacrifice for freedom and liberty, and that now falls on our shoulder, and I think we have to have that same willingness to sacrifice and contribute to that freedom, because it doesn’t come just naturally by itself.

And our founders of our state here came here and pursued a religious freedom and fought and sacrificed to make sure that they had it for generations to come.

Gowdy: Well, Senator, I’m glad you came on, because, as I’ve told you off air, you are one of the kindest, most decent people that I have ever met in politics. I wish more people got to see you. I mean, you’re not loud, you’re not boisterous, but there you are, walking 250 miles across your beautiful state, highlighting our Declaration of Independence. I can’t thank you enough for taking a second out of your walk and joining us.

Curtis: Thanks for telling my story. People can follow on my social media, follow me on the journey, and celebrate this amazing 250-year accomplishment that is just so fantastic.

Gowdy: I’m going to send you a blanket. If it’s 44 almost, that’s kind of nippy for South Carolina. You take care of yourself.

Curtis: I could have used it last night. Thanks, Trey.",1,2026-06-30T06:29:10Z,2026-06-30T06:30:42Z
https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-colleagues-introduce-legislation-to-protect-firefighters-from-harmful-chemicals,"Curtis, Colleagues Introduce Legislation to Protect Firefighters from Harmful Chemicals",2026-06-26,2026,2026-06,Republican,Senate,UT,John R. Curtis,C001114,www.curtis.senate.gov,curtis,https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Deb Fischer (R-NE), and Peter Welch (D-VT) introduced the Protecting Firefighters and Advancing State-of-the-Art (PFAS) Alternatives Act of 2026, bipartisan legislation to support the development of next-generation, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)-free protective gear to better protect firefighters from the dangers of their work.

“Utah’s firefighters shouldn’t have to worry that the gear designed to keep them safe could expose them to harmful chemicals,” said Senator Curtis. “This bipartisan legislation invests in the research needed to improve turnout gear, helping ensure firefighters have the proper protective equipment they deserve.”

“Our first responders put their lives on the line every day to protect our communities, and too many suffer or lose their lives from cancers caused by toxic exposures on the job — including from harmful PFAS chemicals in their protective gear. Our firefighters shouldn’t have to worry that the gear designed to protect them is putting their health at risk,” said Senator Heinrich. “That’s why I’m leading legislation to invest in next-generation PFAS-free firefighting gear. Because we need to do more to protect the people who protect all of us.”

“Our firefighters put everything on the line to keep us safe, and it’s our job to make sure they are taken care of,” said Senator Fischer. “This bill gives us the resources for producing next-generation protective gear, free of PFAS chemicals, to protect the health and safety of firefighters in Nebraska and across the nation.”

“From Vermont to Idaho and everywhere in between, firefighters put their lives on the line every day to keep our communities safe. Their line of work is already hazardous enough without having to deal with toxic chemical exposure from the very gear meant to protect them,” said Senator Welch. “I’m proud to work across the aisle on this legislation to support investments into developing new, PFAS-free turnout gear that protects firefighters across the country.”

Background:

Firefighters are exposed to carcinogens when they respond to virtually every type of fire or incident. These includes PFAS, also known as forever chemicals, which can be found in firefighters’ turnout gear, firefighting foams, and in the smoke and air firefighters breathe. Exposure to PFAS is linked to an array of health problems, including various cancers, kidney disease, reduced immune function, and reproductive challenges.

Tragically, cancer is the leading cause of line-of-duty death in the fire service. Because of their occupational exposure to carcinogens, including PFAS chemicals and other toxins in their own protective gear, firefighters are nearly 10% more likely to develop cancer and almost 15% more likely to die from cancer than the general population. And despite advances in research and materials science, there is no protective gear currently available to firefighters that is proven to be completely hazard-free.

The PFAS Alternatives Act helps address this by creating a new grant program dedicated to the research, development, and testing of turnout gear that maintains effectiveness while improving firefighter safety.

The legislation would:

Establish a grant program within the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) to fund the research, development, and testing of next-generation, toxin-free turnout gear;

Ensure that such research is done by, and in collaboration with, firefighters and entities that understand the unique demands that firefighters face;

Authorize up to $25 million in Fiscal Year 2027 (FY27) through FY31 for that research, development, and testing; and

Authorize an additional $2 million for FY28-FY32 for the development and dissemination of best practices and trainings to ensure that firefighters are equipped with the knowledge to ensure that the next-generation turnout gear is as effective as possible at reducing their risk of potentially harmful exposures.

The legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), and Ed Markey (D-MA). Companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives is led by Representatives Debbie Dingell (D-MI) and Sam Graves (R-MO).

The PFAS Alternatives Act is endorsed by the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF).

“The science is clear. Toxic PFAS chemicals are contributing to alarming rates of cancer in the fire service, and we must do everything we can to reduce fire fighters’ exposure to these carcinogens – including in the gear we wear that is supposed to keep us safe. The PFAS Alternatives Act will accelerate the development of next-generation, toxin-free gear, and make sure fire fighters – not corporate interests – are at the center of research into the products we rely on for our safety. The 366,000 members of the IAFF are proud to support this bipartisan legislation, and we thank Sens. Curtis, Welch, Fischer, and Heinrich for their leadership on this critical issue,” said Edward Kelly, General President, International Association of Fire Fighters.",1,2026-06-27T06:16:17Z,2026-06-27T06:17:30Z
https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-colleagues-introduce-resolution-condemning-chinese-suppression-of-ethnic-minorities,"Curtis, Colleagues Introduce Resolution Condemning Chinese Suppression of Ethnic Minorities",2026-06-26,2026,2026-06,Republican,Senate,UT,John R. Curtis,C001114,www.curtis.senate.gov,curtis,https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Jim Banks (R-IN), and Jeff Merkley (D-OR) introduced a bipartisan resolution that condemns a law passed by the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) that targets ethnic minorities. Once the law takes effect on July 1, it will erode the rights of minority groups in China through the targeting of language and culture in public settings. It also includes a clause allowing the government to target people and groups outside of China it deems accountable for undermining Chinese “ethnic unity,” threatening the sovereignty of nations around the world.

“The CCP’s new ethnic conformity law signals an escalation in Beijing’s longstanding campaign to erase the cultural identities of Tibetans, Uyghurs, Mongolians, Christians, and other minorities—all while giving the CCP a pretext to intimidate critics far beyond China’s borders,”said Senator Curtis. “As leader of the free world, the United States must stand firmly with those facing persecution and make clear that the CCP’s efforts to export repression, silence those who speak out about its human rights abuses, and undermine our sovereignty will not be tolerated.”

“The CCP continues to violate the rights of Tibetans, Uyghurs, and other minority groups in China with its horrendous attempts at cultural and religious erasure. This new law doesn’t only threaten those within China, but also those living outside its borders,” said Senator Rosen. “Our bipartisan resolution shows support from both sides of the aisle to call out the blatant suppression of minority rights and highlights the importance of protecting cultural and religious freedom everywhere.”

“As long as the People’s Republic of China continues to bulldoze the human rights of Tibetans, Uyghurs, and other vulnerable groups, the United States must do everything we can to call out this systemic abuse, protect religious freedom, and defend the rights of China’s ethnic minorities,” said Senator Merkley. “Our bipartisan resolution rejects the PRC’s efforts both to codify coercive assimilation and cultural erasure and to expand those policies beyond its borders through transnational repression.”

“Communist China continues to prove that it sees freedom as a threat. The CCP’s Ethnic Unity and Progress Law is a blatant attempt to enforce Chinese law on American shores. I proudly stand with my colleagues in condemning the abuses of the CCP and standing up for human rights,” said Senator Banks.

Curtis and Rosen have been outspoken about their support for all ethnic minorities in China, and religious freedom around the world. The two recently sent a letter urging the State Department to advance U.S. policy towards Tibet and support Tibetans no matter where they reside.",1,2026-06-27T06:16:17Z,2026-06-27T06:17:30Z
https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-schiff-press-cftc-on-reports-of-deceptive-marketing-by-prediction-market-operator,"Curtis, Schiff Press CFTC on Reports of Deceptive Marketing by Prediction Market Operator",2026-06-26,2026,2026-06,Republican,Senate,UT,John R. Curtis,C001114,www.curtis.senate.gov,curtis,https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Letter requests information concerning Wall Street Journal reporting on Polymarket marketing tactics

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT) and Adam Schiff (D-CA) sent a letter to Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) Chairman Michael S. Selig requesting answers following recent reports that prediction market operator Polymarket used deceptive marketing tactics to promote gambling-style products to U.S. audiences. In their letter, the senators argue that the alleged conduct underscores growing concerns that prediction markets are functioning more like gambling than legitimate financial instruments.

“The CFTC has repeatedly asserted regulatory authority over prediction markets and event contracts, including through its enforcement actions and its rules governing event contracts listed on CFTC-registered entities. Yet with content creators routinely portraying prediction markets as ‘free money,’ there is little basis for treating them differently from gambling. These contracts are not in the public interest and should not be treated as derivative products with hedging value. We remain concerned that the Commission is neither enforcing the law appropriately, nor is equipped to serve as a federal gambling regulator,” the senators wrote.

“The public-facing behavior alleged here does not resemble a sober financial market designed for hedging or price discovery. Instead, it reflects clear regulatory arbitrage, where prediction markets can defy state and tribal gaming regulatory frameworks with ease. Traditional gaming operators are subject to state and tribal licensing, age restrictions, responsible-gaming requirements, advertising rules, integrity monitoring, and enforcement regimes designed to protect consumers and preserve lawful oversight. Prediction market operators should not be permitted to avoid those obligations by rebranding gambling products as federally regulated financial contracts. Nor should the CFTC allow companies to invoke the credibility of federal oversight while engaging in conduct that would raise serious concerns in any regulated gaming market,” the senators continued.

Background:

A recent Wall Street Journal investigation reported that Polymarket orchestrated a social media marketing campaign in which paid content creators posted videos depicting simulated trades and exaggerated winnings on websites designed to resemble the company’s platform. According to the report, many of the creators did not disclose that they were being compensated, and the campaign generated millions of views across major social media platforms while promoting prediction market activity to U.S. audiences, despite Polymarket’s primary platform being unavailable to U.S. users. Following the report, Polymarket said it would review its promotional practices.

The letter requests answers by July 10, 2026, including:

Whether the CFTC is investigating the conduct described in the Wall Street Journal’s reporting;

What steps the agency has taken since its 2022 enforcement action to prevent Polymarket from targeting U.S. users through offshore platforms or affiliated entities;

Whether the Commission believes prediction market operators may lawfully use simulated trades or fake websites in promotional content;

What consumer protection standards currently apply to prediction market advertising, influencer marketing, age verification, and responsible gaming safeguards; and

Whether the CFTC intends to preserve state and tribal authority over sports betting and casino-style gaming products offered as event contracts.

Curtis and Schiff have strongly advocated for prediction market contracts reform, including introducing legislation to ban sports prediction markets gambling and prohibit federal officials from using sensitive information to bet on prediction market contracts.",1,2026-06-27T06:16:17Z,2026-06-27T06:17:30Z
https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-colleagues-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-remove-wildfire-fuel,"Curtis, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Remove Wildfire Fuel",2026-06-25,2026,2026-06,Republican,Senate,UT,John R. Curtis,C001114,www.curtis.senate.gov,curtis,https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), and Adam Schiff (D-CA) introduced the Hazardous Fuels Transportation Assistance Act, bipartisan legislation to help communities and forest managers remove byproducts of forest thinning operations that counterintuitively increase wildfire risk.

“Across Utah and the West, we know that active forest management is essential to reducing wildfire risk and protecting communities. But when the cost of hauling woody biomass becomes a barrier, hazardous fuels can remain on the landscape and undermine the very restoration work designed to make forests safer,” said Senator Curtis. “Our commonsense, bipartisan bill helps get that material out of our forests, supports rural economies, and gives local partners the tools they need to better steward our public lands.”

“Arizona communities know firsthand the toll of wildfires on natural habitats, the economy, and personal lives, especially after the fires at the Grand Canyon last year,” said Senator Kelly. “Thinning the forest is only half the job. This legislation will help get the material left behind out of the forest to prevent more wildfires and support the jobs, businesses, and forest restoration projects so many Arizona families depend on.”

“For too long, effective management of our national forests has been hampered by litigation and regulatory obstacles, allowing hazardous fuels to accumulate and increase the risk of catastrophic wildfires, pests, and disease,” said Senator Hyde-Smith. “Making use of these hazardous fuels, like the storm-damaged trees in Mississippi’s national forest, would be made more affordable through this bipartisan legislation.”

“New Mexico’s forests have become overcrowded with dead trees, brush, and other flammable debris that fuel catastrophic wildfires—and too often, the cost of hauling that material out is what stops the work from getting done,” said Senator Luján. “I’m proud to join Senator Kelly in introducing the Hazardous Fuels Transportation Assistance Act to break that bottleneck, get this dangerous buildup out of our forests, and support the rural businesses and workers doing the job. This is a commonsense step to reduce wildfire risk and keep New Mexico communities safer.”

“I’m proud to join Senators Kelly and Luján in introducing legislation that will mitigate transportation barriers and facilitate the removal of hazardous fuels materials from the forest floor. Expanding this essential financial support will improve forest management, reduce the frequency and intensity of fires, and help strengthen wildfire mitigation efforts,” said Senator Schiff.

Background:

The Hazardous Fuels Transportation Assistance Act would reauthorize the Hazardous Fuels Transportation Assistance program and codify the program by:

Establishing a program through the U.S. Department of Agriculture to provide grants to for-profit companies, non-profit organizations, and other entities to alleviate transportation-related economic barriers to biomass removal from hazardous fuels management activities.

Allowing grants to support:

Transportation of hazardous fuels to processing facilities.

Costs associated with woodyards, loading facilities, scales, and custom chipping.

Purchase, lease, maintenance, or modification of equipment that facilitates the transport of hazardous fuels.

Workforce development, including training and certifications.

Prioritizing projects that would treat hazardous fuels in high-risk firesheds, support development or expansion of wood processing facilities, and encourage collaboration among industrial, state, local, and/or tribal partners.

Authorizing $25 million in funding, consistent with previous appropriations, annually for 2026 through 2030 with a $3 million cap per award, of which up to $250,000 of an award may be used for the purchase of equipment. Grants provide a federal cost-share of 75%, except for Tribes, which are eligible for a 90% federal cost-share.

The legislation is supported by the National Forest Foundation, Eastern Arizona Counties Organization, The Nature Conservancy, Ecological Restoration Institute, Southwest Biochar, Greater Flagstaff Forest Partnership, Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management, Southwest Loggers Association, American Biomass Energy Association, American Loggers Council, National Association of State Foresters, and National Wild Turkey Federation.

“Removing hazardous fuels is one of the most effective long-term investments we can make for the health and resilience of our nation’s forests,” said Dan Stellar, State Director at The Nature Conservancy in Arizona. “Transportation costs are one of the biggest economic hurdles to doing this work at scale, and this legislation helps overcome that barrier so we can protect our forests. We’re grateful for Senator Kelly’s leadership in advancing this commonsense solution to one of the most pressing challenges facing our nation’s forests.”

“The American Biomass Energy Association truly appreciates the leadership of Sen. Kelly and his cosponsors on the Hazardous Fuel Transportation Act. This bill will reduce the costs of transporting low-value wood cleared from forests to biomass power generation facilities. It will enable more biomass to be utilized as fuel for energy production rather than being discarded or open-burned. We are proud to be part of the solution to reducing wildfire risk and we look forward to working with Sen. Kelly and his colleagues to help pass this bill,” saidCarrie Annand, Executive Director,American Biomass Energy Association.

“Hazardous fuels treatment is a proven way to reduce wildfire risk in communities across the country, but the high cost of transporting biomass remains a significant barrier to scaling this work. The National Forest Foundation believes the Hazardous Fuels Transportation Assistance Act is a meaningful step forward to expand restoration efforts, reduce wildfire risk, support rural economies, and strengthen markets for biomass generated through active forest management,” said Dieter Fenkart-Froeschl, President & CEO,National Forest Foundation.

“The American Loggers Council worked with the American Biomass Energy Association and the U.S. Forest Service to demonstrate that removing hazardous fuels from forests and converting them to renewable energy is feasible and effective. That work led to the Hazardous Fuels Transportation Assistance (HFTA) grant program which scaled up forest treatment across the country. Senator Kelly and the other original cosponsors’ introduction of the Hazardous Fuels Transportation Act will ensure this critical work continues to mitigate wildfire threats and protect property and people,” said Scott Dane, Executive Director,American Loggers Council.

“The National Wild Turkey Federation strongly supports the Hazardous Fuels Transportation Act. Safely and efficiently moving low‑value material generated from forest restoration and wildfire mitigation projects remains one of the greatest barriers to improving forest health and reducing the risk of catastrophic wildfire. With mills often located far from project areas, transportation costs can be prohibitive. The Hazardous Fuels Transportation Grant Program provides a practical, targeted solution to keep this material moving, support active management and deliver real on‑the‑ground benefits for forests and communities,” said Kurt Dyroff, Co‑CEO,National Wild Turkey Federation.

“Arizona has already utilized substantial funding from this program to treat hazardous fuels across our state. As we scale up forest treatment activities in the coming years, having dedicated transportation assistance for biomass makes the difference between protecting our forests and leaving hazardous fuel on the ground, waiting to ignite. Senator Kelly’s legislation will keep this program running and help us treat more acres, protect more communities, and build more resilient forests across Arizona,” said Thomas Torres, Director and State Forester, Arizona Department of Forestry and Fire Management.",1,2026-06-26T06:29:35Z,2026-06-26T06:31:46Z
https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-schatz-warner-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-provide-transparency-on-ai-generated-content,"Curtis, Schatz, Warner Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Provide Transparency on AI-Generated Content",2026-06-25,2026,2026-06,Republican,Senate,UT,John R. Curtis,C001114,www.curtis.senate.gov,curtis,https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Bill would require clear labels on AI-made content

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), and Mark Warner (D-VA) introduced the AI Labeling Act, bipartisan legislation to provide transparency on digital content generated by artificial intelligence (AI). The bill will help ensure people know when they are viewing AI-made content or interacting with an AI chatbot by requiring clear labels and disclosures.

“As AI-generated content becomes more refined and realistic, people deserve to know whether what they’re seeing is created by a human or generated by artificial intelligence,” said Senator Curtis. “Our bipartisan AI Labeling Act establishes clear, commonsense transparency standards that help consumers make informed decisions, promote trust in digital content, and discourage bad actors from using AI to deceive the public.”

“People deserve to know whether the videos, photos, and content they see and read online are real or not,” said Senator Schatz. “Our bill is simple—if any digital content is made by AI, it should be labeled so that people are aware and aren’t fooled or scammed.”

“Jurisdictions around the globe are moving to adopt commonsense rules around labeling AI-generated content—it’s time for the U.S. to catch up and in fact lead the world with a disclosure and anti-circumvention model that should be the global standard,” said Senator Warner.

Background:

In May 2023, an AI-generated photo of an explosion near the Pentagon went viral, triggering a dip in the stock market. Deepfake images of President Trump being arrested were viewed by millions on social media, demonstrating the types of manipulation users could see during elections. And fraudsters are already abusing AI systems to generate scam calls, impersonating a loved one’s voice, and scamming Americans out of their hard-earned money. As generative AI becomes increasingly convincing and widespread, it is critical that companies take steps to ensure that American consumers can identify AI-generated content.

The AI Labeling Act would:

Require both visible and machine-readable disclosures identifying AI-generated digital content, including image, video, or audio content;

Require AI developers and all major social media platforms to collaborate to ensure users can identify the authenticity of shared content; and

Establish a working group to create technical standards so users and social media platforms can identify AI-generated content and support content provenance.

The AI Labeling Act is endorsed by the American Society for Collective Rights Licensing Inc. (ASCRL); Authors Guild; Common Cause; Consumer Action; Consumer Federation of America (CFA); Department for Professional Employees, AFL-CIO (DPE); International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE); Music Creators North America (MCNA); National Association of Voice Actors (NAVA); National Consumers League (NCL); Public Citizen; SAG-AFTRA; Society of Composers and Lyricists (SCL); Songwriters Guild of America (SGA); Writers Guild of America East (WGAE).

“The National Association of Voice Actors proudly supports the AI Labeling Act. Audiences deserve to know what is real, ensuring consumers can make informed decisions about the content they engage with. Voice actors are already seeing their voices cloned, synthesized, and deployed without any clear disclosure. For audiences and voice actors, transparency is fundamental to protecting trust and preserving the value of human performance while creating a marketplace where authenticity is not left to guesswork. The AI Labeling Act takes an important step toward that goal by establishing clear disclosure and provenance requirements for AI-generated content. We thank Senators Schatz and Curtis for their leadership and look forward to working with Congress to move this legislation forward,” said Tim Friedlander, President and Co-Founder, National Association of Voice Actors.

“The Authors Guild applauds Senators Schatz and Curtis for reintroducing the AI Labeling Act. Readers deserve to know whether what they’re reading was written by a human author or generated by a machine. As generative AI floods the market with synthetic books and articles, clear and conspicuous labeling is essential to protecting both the integrity of authorship and the public’s trust in what they read. We are proud to endorse this commonsense, bipartisan bill,” said Mary Rasenberger, CEO, The Authors Guild.

“AI-generated deception is becoming a routine part of everyday life. Deepfakes and synthetic media increasingly appear in our social media, political discourse, and even messages shared by trusted friends and family. Americans shouldn’t have to play detective every time they open a text, scroll through a newsfeed, or watch a video online. The AI Labeling Act is a commonsense transparency measure that helps restore trust in our information ecosystem by ensuring consumers can identify AI-generated content. In a world where seeing is no longer believing, transparency becomes the prerequisite for trust, accountability, and an informed public,” said J.B. Branch, AI Governance and Technology Policy Counsel, Public Citizen.",1,2026-06-26T06:29:35Z,2026-06-26T06:31:46Z
https://www.lee.senate.gov/2026/6/lee-introduces-end-epa-abuse-act,Lee Introduces End EPA Abuse Act,2026-06-25,2026,2026-06,Republican,Senate,UT,Mike Lee,L000577,www.lee.senate.gov,mikelee,https://www.lee.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) introduced the End EPA Abuse Act to stop the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) from exercising undue authority to arbitrarily create and enforce policy decisions that rightly belong to Congress. The legislation is cosponsored by Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), and its House version was introduced by Congressman Andrew Clyde (R-GA-09). The bill is endorsed by thirteen organizations and twenty Attorneys General from across the country.

“The EPA has overstepped its authority as far as possible to put America’s energy producers in a chokehold,” said Senator Mike Lee. “They’ve exploited any power they can grab to push Biden and Obama’s climate psychosis at the expense of our energy security. They make up and enforce regulations to suffocate America’s energy producers and devastate major sectors of our economy. The End EPA Abuse Act will clarify once and for all that policymaking belongs to Congress, whom the American people have elected – not to the leftwing bureaucracy.”

""The EPA has spent years using the Clean Air Act as a backdoor tool to wage war on fossil fuels and strip Americans of their energy choices,” said Senator Cynthia Lummis. “The End EPA Abuse Act puts Congress back in the driver's seat where we belong. That's why I'm proud to cosponsor this legislation and finally draw a clear line against an agency that has far exceeded the authority Congress ever intended to give it.""

“Under the Biden Administration, the EPA increasingly treated the Clean Air Act as a blank check to push de facto electric vehicle mandates, jeopardize reliable energy sources, and impose costly regulations on American consumers and businesses,” said Congressman Andrew Clyde. “Unelected Washington bureaucrats should never have the power to dictate what kind of car Americans drive or how our country produces electricity. The End EPA Abuse Act puts Congress back in the driver's seat where it belongs, preventing any future Democrat Administration from abusing the EPA’s regulatory authority to advance the Left’s radical, anti-American energy agenda.”

The End EPA Abuse Act is endorsed by twenty Attorneys General who penned a letter of support, as well as the following organizations: Heritage Action, American Energy Institute, American Consumer Institute, Competitive Enterprise Institute, Frontiers of Freedom Institute, Eagle Forum, Less Government, the Heartland Institute, Center for a Free Economy, American Energy Alliance, Truth in Energy and Climate, the John Locke Foundation, and the Center for Energy and Conservation at Independent Women’s Voice.

“The End EPA Abuse Act of 2026 is a win for our States and our residents. We are grateful that the Trump administration has moved aggressively to correct many of the Biden-era and Obama-era excesses described above. EPA Administrator Zeldin has been a skilled partner in unwinding unlawful rules, and we applaud those efforts. But statutory guardrails—not administrative forbearance—provide the durable solution our constituents deserve. Thank you for your commitment to keeping the EPA within its statutory authority. The States recognize that EPA has an important role to play. We ask only that Congress ensure that, in playing that role, the EPA does not again usurp ours.” – A.G. John McCuskey and other Attorneys General

“The EPA was never authorized to engineer America’s transportation system, force fuel switching at power plants, or jeopardize grid reliability in pursuit of political objectives. The End EPA Abuse Act restores important guardrails by prohibiting regulations that effectively ban internal combustion engines, mandate unproven technologies, or threaten reliable electricity generation. Americans deserve affordable, dependable energy and the freedom to choose the products that best meet their needs.” – American Energy Institute

""The CAA has been abused to create electric vehicle mandates, force the grid to shift to renewables, and impose impossible technological standards, all of which inflict burdensome costs and hardship onto consumers. This bill will keep the CAA within the bounds set by Congress, preserving consumer choice and protecting our electric grid from unjustified and unrealistic regulations."" – American Consumer Institute

“The EPA is supposed to be focused on environmental protection, not on trying to stretch the Clean Air Act to change the very nature of our economy. Yet this is exactly what has been happening in recent years. Not long ago, people would have been thought of as wacky if they claimed the EPA would try to use the Clean Air Act to kill off gas-powered cars or try and change how the country produces electricity. But this is exactly what the agency has been doing. The End EPA Abuse Act establishes much-needed guardrails on the EPA. The bill is a means by which Congress would be reasserting its power while still allowing the EPA to do its job to protect the environment. The only thing the bill prohibits is the greatest abuses that common sense tells us Congress never authorized in the first place. Sen. Lee and Rep. Clyde should be commended for introducing this critical reform bill.” – Competitive Enterprise Institute

“Senator Mike Lee has once again shown the kind of principled leadership our country desperately needs with the introduction of the End EPA Abuse Act of 2026. This important legislation directly confronts the Environmental Protection Agency’s relentless overreach by protecting American consumers’ right to choose the vehicles they want and can afford, while also safeguarding the reliability of our electric grid. By reining in the EPA’s ability to impose unrealistic, costly, and anti-consumer mandates — particularly those that target internal combustion engines and force fuel-switching at power plants — Senator Lee is standing up for constitutional limits on federal power and defending the economic freedom of hardworking Americans. This bill is a much-needed corrective to years of regulatory abuse and should be supported by anyone who believes government agencies should serve the people, not dictate to them.” – Frontiers of Freedom Institute

Background

Since its enaction in 1970, the EPA has increasingly interpreted the Clean Air Act not merely as a mandate to protect air quality, but as license to impact major sectors of the American economy. By exploiting statutory ambiguities and stretching its regulatory authority beyond Congress's original intent, the agency has abused the Clean Air Act to impose sweeping policies impacting electricity generation, transportation, and industrial production.

For example, the Obama-era EPA used Clean Air Act regulatory authority to attempt to implement the “Clean Power Plan,” which would have forced power plants to switch from coal to other sources of fuel. In 2022, the U.S. Supreme Court rejected this overreach in West Virginia v. EPA, arguing that Congress had not authorized the EPA to assert such broad authority that would have carried massive economic and political consequences. The Court rightly recognized that major policy decisions belong to Congress, not a federal agency.

Despite positive court cases and deregulatory actions by President Trump’s EPA, future administrations will continue using the Clean Air Act as a tool to assert authority for major policy decisions that go well beyond the law. Congress should codify in statute clear guardrails to protect Americans from an EPA that imposes excessive rules that drive up prices, restrict consumer choice, and devastate the agency’s disfavored industries.

The End EPA Abuse Act

The End EPA Abuse Act would prohibit the EPA from issuing Clean Air Act regulations that could be reasonably determined to significantly expand the Agency’s authority beyond the intent of Congress.

This includes any regulation that:

a) Restricts the sale or use of internal combustion engine vehicles;

b) Requires power plants to switch fuel sources;

c) Reduces the reliability of the electric grid, or;

d) Requires the use of technology that is economically or practically infeasible.

The bill also clarifies that “regulations” includes waivers like those issued to California for their EV mandate.

Bill Text | One Pager | Endorsements

###",1,2026-06-26T06:29:35Z,2026-06-26T06:31:46Z
https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-cosponsors-bipartisan-legislation-to-protect-youth-from-targeted-gambling-ads,Curtis Cosponsors Bipartisan Legislation to Protect Youth from Targeted Gambling Ads,2026-06-25,2026,2026-06,Republican,Senate,UT,John R. Curtis,C001114,www.curtis.senate.gov,curtis,https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator John Curtis (R-UT) cosponsored bipartisan legislation introduced by Senators Katie Britt (R-AL) and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) to combat the rapid and concerning rise in youth gambling. The Gaming Advertisement to Minors Enforcement (GAME) Act would prohibit social media companies and other advertising websites from targeting minors with sports betting through online advertising.

“As online advertising becomes increasingly targeted and sophisticated, we need commonsense protections that keep gambling promotions away from our youth,” said Senator Curtis. “By prohibiting sports betting advertisers from targeting minors, our bipartisan legislation would help protect kids, support parents, and ensure technology is used responsibly.”

“The rise in sports gambling among minors, particularly among young boys, is jarring,” said Senator Britt. “We know targeted advertising from gambling and prediction market websites can serve as the gateway to dangerous habits that too often become crippling addictions. Our legislation takes a critical step toward addressing this problem before it worsens. Our next generation is our greatest asset, and it’s our responsibility to take the necessary steps to protect them from online dangers whenever we can—which is exactly what this bill does.”

“Sportsbooks and prediction markets are treating young people like a gold rush, flooding the internet with advertisements and promotions to hook them on gambling when they’re young,” said Senator Blumenthal. “High schoolers, even middle schoolers, are now gambling on their phones as never before, losing real money and creating life-altering addiction. The GAME Act would create a nationwide ban on targeted advertising of gambling to kids, backed with the force of punishing fines.”

Background:

A 2024 study found that individuals who begin gambling before the age of 18 are 50% more likely to develop a gambling problem, while 1 in 6 parents say they would not know if their child was gambling. Another recent study found that 45% of adolescent boys who gamble see gambling-related content online. Additionally, 59% reported that gambling-related content began appearing in their algorithms without them proactively searching for it.

The Federal Trade Commission would be responsible for enforcing the law, which would begin one year after enactment. Failure to comply could result in civil financial penalties and injunctive relief sought through the courts.

Under the GAME Act, repeat offenders can be referred to the Department of Justice, which could impose financial penalties of up to $100,000 for each advertisement shown to a minor that promotes sports gambling. In cases where thousands of advertisements are shown to minors, the financial penalties could become substantial.",1,2026-06-27T20:01:11Z,2026-06-28T06:33:41Z
https://mikekennedy.house.gov/media/press-releases/co-led-rep-mike-kennedy-house-committee-approves-bipartisan-19-billion-annual,"Co-Led by Rep. Mike Kennedy, House Committee Approves Bipartisan $1.9 Billion Annual Investment in National Parks",2026-06-25,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,UT,Mike Kennedy,K000403,mikekennedy.house.gov,mikekennedy,https://mikekennedy.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington D.C. - Today, the House Natural Resources Committee passed the Great American Outdoors Act with decisive voice-vote passage. Co-led by Rep. Kennedy, the landmark bipartisan legislation now heads to the House floor. The Great American Outdoors Act 250, legislation that invests $1.9 billion over the next 5 years in our national parks and public lands. For Utahns, this represents a historic milestone for the state's ""Mighty 5"" national parks and vast public lands, directly tackling critical maintenance backlogs while fueling local outdoor recreation economies.

“A defining privilege of being American is the freedom to cherish and care for our land. Here in Utah, we are uniquely blessed; our landscapes are some of the world’s most magnificent,” said Congressman Mike Kennedy. “As we approach America's 250th birthday, we have the opportunity to reflect on the founding principles that forged this nation—one of which is placing duty before self. Stewardship of our lands and resources demands a certain adherence to that foundational principle. The Great American Outdoors Act 250 is the framework in which that very duty is upheld when it comes to our great outdoors.”

House Committee on Natural Resources Chairman Bruce Westerman (R-Ark.) and Ranking Member Jared Huffman (D-Calif.) introduced the bipartisan Great American Outdoors Act 250 on June 10, 2026. Congressman Mike Kennedy is an original co-sponsor. The GAOA250 invests $1.9 billion annually in America’s national parks, public lands, and Bureau of Indian Education (BIE) facilities over each of the next five years. Funded by private donations, onshore energy revenue and new foreign visitor fees, GAOA250 enhances access, invests in some of our nation’s most treasured assets, creates new jobs and revitalizes rural, gateway economies.

“As millions of Americans are preparing to celebrate the 250th anniversary of our nation’s independence, Congress is coming together in a bipartisan manner to enhance access, improve visitor experiences, and create new outdoor recreation opportunities. The Great American Outdoors Act 250 will make historic investments in and modernize our national parks, public lands, and Bureau of Indian Education facilities, revitalize the economies of rural gateway communities that depend on public lands tourism, and create new recreation opportunities for American families to enjoy. I look forward to working with Ranking Member Huffman, my bipartisan colleagues in both the House and the Senate, and the Trump administration on advancing this historic legislation to President Trump’s desk.” – House Committee on Natural Resources Chairman Bruce Westerman (R-Ark.)

""As the nation turns 250, we have a chance to renew a promise behind what's been called America's best idea: that our greatest landscapes belong to every one of us. The Great American Outdoors Act 250 builds on a promise we made together, on a bipartisan basis, to keep our parks open and well cared for. It means a campsite ready when you pull in, clean restrooms and water at the spigot, and trails accessible enough for grandparents and kids to walk together. I thank Chairman Westerman for working across the aisle on a bill worthy of our nation's birthday, so these places are ready for the next generation of visitors."" – House Committee on Natural Resources Ranking Member Jared Huffman (D-Calif.)

Specifically, the legislation:

Targets high-priority deferred maintenance projects within each federal land management agency and the BIE.

Restores campgrounds, trails, boat ramps, hunting and fishing sites and other recreational infrastructure to unleash new outdoor recreation opportunities for sportsmen and women and improve visitor experiences.

Supports 72,500 jobs across the country and $26.4 billion in revenue for rural gateway communities neighboring our national parks, forests, wildlife refuges and public lands.

Promotes transparency and accountability by streamlining contracting and procurement, expediting project reviews and requiring regular reporting.

Does not allow for new federal land acquisition.

Creates new, sustainable funding sources through foreign visitor fees and incentivizing private donations.

Text of the legislation can be found here.

The one-pager can be found here.

The section-by-section can be found here.

Supporting organizations: America Outdoors Association, American Battlefield Trust, American Conservation Coalition Action, American Fly Fishing Trade Association, American Forest Resource Council, American Hiking Society, American Horse Council, American Sportfishing Association, American Wood Council, Americans for Prosperity, Appalachian Trail Conservancy, Arizona Rock Products Association, Associated Equipment Distributors, Badlands National Park Conservancy, Big Bend Conservancy, Boone and Crockett Club, C&O Canal Trust, Chickamauga Chattanooga Moccasin Bend, Citizens for Responsible Energy Solutions, Congressional Sportsmen's Foundation, ConservAmerica, Dallas Safari Club, Delta Waterfowl, Ducks Unlimited, Environment America, Forest Landowners Association, Friends of Acadia, Friends of Vicksburg National Military Park, Gateway Arch Park Foundation, Idaho Trails Association, Independent Petroleum Association of America, Independent Women’s Forum, Megafire Action, Motorcycle Industry Council, National Association of Forest Service Retirees, National Audubon Society, National Deer Association, National Forest Foundation, National Forest Recreation Association, National Indian Education Association, National Marine Manufacturers Association, National Ocean Industries Association, National Park Foundation, National Park Friends Alliance, National Parks Conservation Association, National Rifle Association, National Shooting Sports Foundation, National Wild Turkey Federation, Nature Is Nonpartisan, Outdoor Alliance, Outdoor Hospitality Industry, Outdoor Industry Association, Outdoor Recreation Roundtable, PeopleForBikes, Pew Charitable Trust, Pheasants Forever, Property and Environment Research Center, Quail Forever, Recreational Off-Highway Vehicle Association, Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, RV Dealers Association, RV Industry Association, Safari Club International, Save the Dunes, Specialty Vehicle Institute of America, The Conservation Alliance, The Conservation Fund, The Great Outdoors Fund, The Nature Conservancy, The Student Conservation Association, Inc., The Wilderness Society, Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership, Trails Preservation Alliance, Trust for Public Land, U.S. Oil & Gas Association, USA Energy Workers, Valley Forge Park Alliance, Washington Trails Association, Western Energy Alliance, Western States Tourism Policy Council and Wild Sheep Foundation.",1,2026-06-27T21:44:12Z,2026-06-27T22:11:26Z
https://owens.house.gov/posts/hearing-recap-owens-hearing-on-apprenticeships-in-the-workforce,HEARING RECAP: Owens Hearing on Apprenticeships in the Workforce ,2026-06-24,2026,2026-06,Republican,House,UT,Burgess Owens,O000086,owens.house.gov,owens,https://owens.house.gov/press,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, the Subcommittee on Higher Education and Workforce Development Chairman Burgess Owens (R-UT) held a hearing on how apprenticeships are a proven way to help workers acquire new skills, help employers build talent pipelines, and ensure our workforce can adapt to the demands of a changing economy.

In his opening statement, Chairman Owens stated that in our rapidly changing economy, we shouldn’t be relying on a one-size-fits-all pipeline to bring individuals into the workforce.

“For too long, the conversation around career success has focused on a single pathway to work through a traditional four-year college education … Apprenticeships and work-based learning offer a different model. One that allows individuals to earn while they learn, gain hands-on experience, and build skills that employers actually need.”

Chairman Owens began his questioning of the witnesses focusing on how students should evaluate college and apprenticeship pathways, the growing role of work-based learning, and the misconceptions that continue to prevent many young Americans from pursuing careers in the skilled trades.

Chariman Owens first asked Ms. Angel if an 18-year-old came to her for advice on taking out a large student loan to pursue a traditional college degree, or enter an apprenticeship program and earn a paycheck from day one.

Ms. Angel shared that she currently has an 18-year-old daughter at home and has had that conversation with her multiple times and has shared with her before questioning what degree she should get, she should first inentify her interests, strenghts, learning style and long-term career aspirations should begin by identifying their interests, strengths, learning styles, and long-term career aspirations before selecting a pathway.

Ms. Angel: “Don’t choose college or trade because of prestige or what you think you know. Choose the best path that aligns with your interests, your strengths, your financial goals, your desired lifestyle.”

She encouraged students to consider what kind of work they enjoy, how they learn best, labor market demand, and future growth opportunities. While noting that both college and apprenticeship programs can lead to rewarding careers, she cautioned that the greatest mistake is choosing a path without first understanding one’s goals.

Chariman Owens then questioned Mr. Ross about whether work experience could increasingly serve as a source of academic credit.

Mr. Ross described emerging “credit for work” models that convert paid, mentored work experiences into recognized academic progress while allowing learners to gain practical skills and workplace experience simultaneously.

Mr. Ross: “Credit for work looks like converting paid, mentored work experience into recognized academic progress. That enables learners to get relevant on-the-job experience from day one… It’s important because it means that working adults don’t have to choose between the paycheck they need now and the degree or the credential that could get them ahead.”

He explained that workplace learning allows students to apply classroom concepts in real-world settings, demonstrate competencies, and develop career-ready skills while earning a paycheck. Mr. Ross also noted that expanding these opportunities will require accrediting organizations to embrace alternative pathways that maintain academic rigor while recognizing workplace learning and job-relevant experience.

Finally, Chairman Owens questioned Ms. Sherwood about the biggest misconceptions parents and students continue to hold regarding apprenticeship programs and careers in the skilled trades.

Drawing on her experience as a former teacher and principal, Ms. Sherwoodard identified the belief that apprenticeships are only for students who cannot attend college as one of the most persistent misconceptions.

Ms. Sherwood: “Perhaps the biggest is that apprenticeship is only for those who can’t get into college.”

Reflecting on her own experience in education, Ms. Sherwood acknowledged that she once embraced a “college-for-all” mindset and did not fully appreciate the opportunities apprenticeship programs provide. She argued that apprenticeship pathways should be celebrated with the same enthusiasm often reserved for college admissions decisions.

Ms. Sherwood: “When my third, who wants to go into apprenticeship, just makes that decision, I want to post that and have the exact same celebration and the number of likes that pop up.”

Ms. Sherwood also challenged the notion that apprenticeships are limited to traditional skilled trades, highlighting the growing use of apprenticeship models in fields such as healthcare, information technology, and education.

In addition, he rejected the idea that apprenticeships are a shortcut to success.

Ms. Sherwood: “It’s hard work, it takes involvement, it takes investment, and it’s not a shortcut.”

Throughout the discussion, witnesses stressed that students should not view college and apprenticeship programs as competing options. Instead, they emphasized the importance of providing young Americans with multiple pathways to success and helping them make informed decisions based on their talents, goals, and career aspirations.

The hearing highlighted growing interest in expanding work-based learning opportunities, recognizing workplace experience as a valuable component of education, and ensuring students have access to pathways that lead to both economic mobility and workforce success.

In his closing remarks, Chairman Owens remarked that moving forward and innovating how we gain skills and knowledge with apprenticeships and higher education, we can increase productivity and grow the middle class.

“This is such a great time for our country, and our kids deserve it. We have the sharpest and smartest kids that have opportunities in this country because we believe in freedom, we believe in opportunity, and big dreams.”

###",1,2026-06-25T06:30:03Z,2026-06-25T06:31:21Z
https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-schiff-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-protect-children-from-ai-chatbot-risks,"Curtis, Schiff Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Protect Children from AI Chatbot Risks",2026-06-23,2026,2026-06,Republican,Senate,UT,John R. Curtis,C001114,www.curtis.senate.gov,curtis,https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"SAFE KIDS Act establishes a comprehensive federal framework to ensure chatbots prioritize child safety, privacy, and parental empowerment

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators John Curtis (R-UT) and Adam Schiff (D-CA) today introduced the Safeguarding AI Features to Ensure Kids’ Informed Digital Safety (SAFE KIDS) Act, bipartisan legislation to protect children from the risks and harms associated with the use of artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots. The commonsense framework addresses growing concerns about kids’ reliance on AI chatbots for emotional support and companionship.

“Parents deserve confidence that AI tools are not exposing their children to harmful content, fostering unhealthy emotional dependence, or exploiting their personal information,” said Senator Curtis. “The SAFE KIDS Act puts commonsense guardrails in place to protect children online while preserving American leadership in innovation. We need clear standards for transparency, accountability, and child safety so families can navigate the opportunities and risks of emerging technologies with confidence.”

“AI chatbots that promote companionship pose significant risks to young and developing minds. Already we have heard tragic stories of kids who have been influenced by the powerful, and still sometimes unpredictable, outputs of an AI chatbot,” said Senator Schiff. “These chatbots can represent the power of the entire internet in a humanlike form, and impressionable kids need to be protected from its worst impulses—and from seeing their data misused by the companies behind them. The SAFE KIDS Act represents a comprehensive bipartisan attempt to protect our children and ensure that their first experiences with this revolutionary technology are free from harm.”

Background:

AI chatbots are increasingly becoming a part of children’s daily lives. While these tools can provide educational benefits, they have already shown to expose children to harmful content, encourage unhealthy emotional dependence, and collect sensitive personal information if not properly safeguarded.

Specifically, the SAFE KIDS Act would:

Require that AI chatbot providers conduct rigorous, ongoing risk assessments and implement robust safety safeguards before making systems available to children;

Prohibit any advertising to child users, as well as all child-targeted behavioral advertising, and ban the sale or sharing of a child’s personal data without verifiable parental consent;

Ban the generation of sexual deepfakes and strictly prohibit AI chatbots from mimicking human emotions to isolate children or foster unhealthy emotional dependence;

Require providers to build documented protocols that offer immediate external crisis resources and prompt parental notifications if a minor is at risk of imminent harm, including suicidal ideation or self-harm;

Mandate annual, independent child safety audits to ensure full compliance with the law, with transparency summaries published for the public; and

Compel providers to utilize secure age estimation technology to properly differentiate accounts held by children from adults while strictly protecting the privacy of that data.",1,2026-06-24T06:25:30Z,2026-06-24T06:26:49Z
https://www.lee.senate.gov/2026/6/lee-cotton-sound-alarm-on-chinese-thieves-in-american-labs,"Lee, Cotton Sound Alarm on Chinese Thieves in American Labs",2026-06-23,2026,2026-06,Republican,Senate,UT,Mike Lee,L000577,www.lee.senate.gov,mikelee,https://www.lee.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Mike Lee (R-UT) and Tom Cotton (R-AR) today sent a letter to alert Department of Energy (DOE) Secretary Chris Wright of Chinese nationals’ access to American National Labs, where they are infiltrating sensitive research facilities to steal American intellectual property and technology to benefit Communist China.

In January 2026, the Senators, along with nine of their colleagues, sent a letter to Secretary Wright urging him to address this issue. In March 2025, they introduced the Guarding American Technology from Exploitation (GATE) Act as a legislative solution. The bill is currently being blocked by Democrats on the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee.

In part, the Senators wrote:

“We write expressing serious concern regarding the Department of Energy’s (DOE) continued practice of permitting foreign nationals from China to access facilities across the National Laboratory complex and work alongside American scientists. Recent DOE data underscores that this practice puts the nation’s research enterprise at risk of foreign intelligence collection and technology transfers that will benefit our adversaries.”

The letter reads as follows:

Dear Secretary Wright:

We write expressing serious concern regarding the Department of Energy’s (DOE) continued practice of permitting foreign nationals from China to access facilities across the National Laboratory complex and work alongside American scientists. Recent DOE data underscores that this practice puts the nation’s research enterprise at risk of foreign intelligence collection and technology transfers that will benefit our adversaries.

According to DOE’s own data, Chinese nationals continue to occupy substantial roles across a variety of access types, including short term visits (approximately 1,900 in FY 2025), long term research assignments (approximately 1,300 in FY 2025), and even formal employment (approximately 2,100 in FY 2025). The Department further reports in FY 2025, on-site user facilities at the National Labs were accessed physically and remotely more than 5,000 times by Chinese nationals. These facts reflect severe vulnerabilities at our nation’s premier and most sensitive scientific environments.

China is our main competitor in research and development and the race for emerging tech, where it seeks to surpass the United States by stealing American intellectual property and technologies. This is widely known and well-documented, and yet for decades we continue to give Chinese national scientists access to our National Laboratories.

These numbers are not small, nor are they incidental. They represent a systemic exposure of our National Labs, including the American scientists who work there and topics they are working on, to an adversary determined to defeat the United States. Given that DOE has not substantially reduced this exposure, we respectfully request answers to the following:

1. How does DOE's risk framework account for China's National Intelligence Law, which legally obligates every Chinese citizen—including those working in our National Laboratories—to cooperate with Chinese intelligence services upon demand, regardless of where they reside?

2. Why does the Department permit Chinese nationals to work inside the National Labs, side by side with American scientists?

3. Are Chinese nationals given access to controlled technologies, export controlled technologies, or any other sensitive research environments within the National Laboratories? If so, how many?

4. What steps is DOE taking to reduce remote access by Chinese nationals, given the Department’s own finding that thousands of users operate remotely with limited oversight?

5. Does DOE intend to reduce or cap Chinese nationals’ participation in unclassified research areas, and if not, why not?

6. What counterintelligence assessments has DOE conducted regarding the concentration of Chinese nationals in specific labs, programs, or user facilities?

The Department’s mission is to advance American scientific leadership, protect national security, and safeguard critical technologies. This mission can’t be achieved when it’s undermined by thousands of Chinese nationals infiltrating the National Labs each year. We look forward to your thoughts on these systemic vulnerabilities affecting our labs.

Read exclusive coverage by the New York Post here.

Read the full text of the letter here.

###",1,2026-06-24T06:25:30Z,2026-06-24T06:26:49Z
https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-applauds-senate-passage-of-housing-affordability-bill,Curtis Applauds Senate Passage of Housing Affordability Bill,2026-06-22,2026,2026-06,Republican,Senate,UT,John R. Curtis,C001114,www.curtis.senate.gov,curtis,https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"Road to Housing Act would help increase housing supply amid significant demand, high prices

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator John Curtis (R-UT) issued the following statement regarding the Senate’s passage of the bipartisan, bicameral 21st Century Renewing Opportunity in the American Dream (ROAD) to Housing Act:

“For decades, owning a home has been a core part of the American Dream, yet housing affordability has become one of the most difficult financial challenges that families face today. And with Utah being one of the fastest-growing states in the nation, our state is experiencing a serious supply crunch, which further puts homeownership out of reach.

“But today, the Senate took a significant step toward delivering meaningful relief for those families by passing the ROAD to Housing Act. This legislation advances practical, commonsense solutions to increase housing supply and expand access to affordable housing and financing opportunities for families, making the dream of homeownership more attainable and the pressures of renting less burdensome.

“Despite all the noise we see, passing this major piece of legislation demonstrates that bicameral cooperation and bipartisanship are alive in Congress and that we are working to address the issues the American people care about most.

“I have been proud to support this effort and will continue working to influence and advance practical solutions that lower costs for families and keep the American Dream a reality.”

Background:

Due to travel delays caused by inclement weather, Senator Curtis was unable to attend the Senate’s final passage vote. He however supported the legislation in preceding votes.

As one of the fastest-growing states in the nation, Utah has experienced significant housing demand in recent years, driving up both home prices and rent for families across the state. The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act is a bipartisan, bicameral package designed to address these affordability challenges by increasing housing supply and reducing barriers that make it harder and more expensive to build new homes.

The legislation modernizes outdated federal housing policies, streamlines requirements that have constrained development, and creates incentives for communities to expand housing production. It also includes reforms to support community banks and local lenders that help finance housing development.

For Utah, where growing communities are working to keep pace with population growth, these reforms aim to make it easier to build the housing needed to keep homeownership and rental opportunities within reach for working families.

The final package was the product of months of negotiations between the Senate Banking Committee and House Financial Services Committee and reflects priorities from both parties.",1,2026-06-24T06:25:30Z,2026-06-24T06:26:49Z
https://www.curtis.senate.gov/press-releases/curtis-cosponsors-bipartisan-legislation-to-secure-hazard-pay-for-wildland-firefighters,Curtis Cosponsors Bipartisan Legislation to Secure Hazard Pay for Wildland Firefighters,2026-06-22,2026,2026-06,Republican,Senate,UT,John R. Curtis,C001114,www.curtis.senate.gov,curtis,https://www.curtis.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator John Curtis (R-UT) cosponsored the Wildland Firefighter Hazard Pay Correction Act, bipartisan legislation to provide hazard pay to wildland firefighters and smokejumpers for prescribed burns and training jumps, ensuring these brave first responders are recognized with fair compensation.

“Prescribed burns are one of the many ways wildland firefighters put their lives on the line to prevent wildfires and manage our lands,” said Senator Curtis. “This bill ensures federal wildland firefighters and smokejumpers are fairly compensated for the risks they take to protect our forests, public lands, and communities.”

The legislation was introduced by Senators Tim Sheehy (R-MT) and Alex Padilla (D-CA) and is also cosponsored by Senators Michael Bennet (D-CO) and John Hickenlooper (D-CO).

“Our wildland firefighters and smoke jumpers face incredible risks to defend our communities, and for too long, they have done so without fair compensation. With the bulk of fire season on its way, this bipartisan bill ensures we pay these heroes what they deserve as they continue their dangerous work to protect families, communities, and property from the threat of catastrophic wildfire,” said Senator Sheehy.

“Wildland firefighters put their lives on the line to keep our communities safe. As wildfires become more intense and frequent, we need to recruit and retain more firefighters to maintain strong crews on the frontlines. Our bill will ensure that our brave wildland firefighters receive hazard pay for a broader range of high-risk work – delivering a long-overdue raise,”said Senator Padilla.

Background:

Although firefighters receive hazard pay when responding to active wildfires, they don’t receive equivalent compensation when conducting prescribed burns, despite facing similar risks from fire, smoke, and rugged forest conditions. Likewise, hazard pay isn’t provided to smokejumpers conducting regular proficiency jumps needed to maintain readiness, even though parachuting into remote areas is inherently hazardous.

In April, the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) took a strong step towards addressing these gaps, issuing a proposed rule that adds prescribed wildland fire duties as a covered activity triggering hazard pay.

The Wildland Firefighter Hazard Pay Correction Act would codify and build on OPM’s efforts by providing hazard pay to wildland firefighters and smoke jumpers for prescribed burns and training jumps. This bill will ensure that risks across the full range of wildfire mitigation and response activities are recognized with fair compensation – supporting the first responders that keep our communities safe.

What the bill does:

Expresses a sense of Congress that firefighters who engage in prescribed fire and smokejumper training activities take on risks comparable to those in wildfire suppression and should receive hazard pay to fairly compensate these risks.

Amends 5 U.S.C. 5545 to require that duties involving the ignition, control, or suppression of a prescribed burn, and smokejumper exercises for training, proficiency, or operational purposes, receive the same pay differential as wildfire response activities.

Directs OPM to issue implementing hazard pay regulations within 90 days of enactment.

The full text of the bill can be found here.

Additional Support:

“America’s wildland firefighters are asked to do some of the toughest and most dangerous work in the country from responding to devastating wildfires to carrying out the prescribed burns and training that help prevent future disasters. They deserve to be fairly compensated for those risks. Megafire Action is proud to support this bipartisan legislation because investing in the people who fight these fires is essential to building a more resilient future. We thank Senators Sheehy and Padilla for their leadership on this legislation and look forward to its passage.”– Matt Weiner, co-founder and CEO of Megafire Action

“Commercial aerial assets work alongside federal ground crews every day — on wildfires, on prescribed burns, and in support of smokejumper operations. Codifying hazard pay for prescribed fire duties into statute gives the workforce — and the agencies — something durable to build on. The bill’s extension of hazard pay to smokejumper training jumps is equally important. Maintaining parachute proficiency is not an administrative exercise; it is operational readiness, and it carries real risk. Compensating it accordingly is overdue. We commend Senator Sheehy and Senator Padilla for their leadership on this bill and urge swift action.” – Paul Petersen, Executive Director, United Aerial Firefighting Association",1,2026-06-24T06:25:30Z,2026-06-24T06:26:49Z
https://www.lee.senate.gov/2026/6/lee-votes-to-protect-americans-from-government-overreach-calls-for-real-affordable-housing-solutions,"Lee Votes to Protect Americans from Government Overreach, Calls for Real Affordable Housing Solutions",2026-06-22,2026,2026-06,Republican,Senate,UT,Mike Lee,L000577,www.lee.senate.gov,mikelee,https://www.lee.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) today voted against the flawed Road to Housing Act to protect Americans from federal overreach and stand for real affordable housing solutions.

“Americans need more affordable housing. Unfortunately, this bill doesn’t do enough to provide it, instead increasing the federal government’s long-running and failed involvement in the U.S. housing market,” said Senator Mike Lee. “Notably, the bill does not do nearly enough to safeguard housing programs for American citizens only. Additionally, the bill includes only a temporary ban on a Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) rather than a permanent one, while failing to prohibit any future administration from trampling state and local authorities for social engineering like the Biden and Obama administrations. The process to fix this bill has been nonexistent, with no amendment votes in the Senate. We can do better. To truly improve housing affordability, we must drastically reduce the federal government’s footprint in housing policy, cut federal spending to reduce federal debt, which in turn can lower mortgage interest rates, and continue mass deportations of illegal aliens who are placing a significant burden on housing availability and affordability for American citizens.”

###",1,2026-06-23T06:27:52Z,2026-06-23T06:29:20Z
https://www.lee.senate.gov/2026/6/senator-lee-on-fox-news-debate-save-america-act-until-it-passes-trust-president-trump-on-iran,"Senator Lee on FOX News: Debate SAVE America Act Until it Passes, Trust President Trump on Iran",2026-06-22,2026,2026-06,Republican,Senate,UT,Mike Lee,L000577,www.lee.senate.gov,mikelee,https://www.lee.senate.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) joined FOX News Sunday with host Shannon Bream to outline a path to passage for the SAVE America Act, call on the Senate to skip vacation, and discuss President Trump’s America-First navigation of the conflict in Iran. Watch the full interview here.

Watch Senator Lee outline the SAVE America Act's path to passage here.

Senator Lee on the SAVE America Act’s Path to Passage:

“It’s important to remember that the original SAVE America Act – the one that was passed by the House of Representatives – does have simple majority support in the Senate. While it’s true that we’re ten votes shy of cloture (forcing debate to a close), that doesn’t mean that we couldn’t pass it.

“There are a couple ways to get there.

“One would be nuking the filibuster, which appears unlikely to happen. But the other way is to exhaust the other side – to continue to debate the bill until it passes. This was a common procedure in the Senate for most of its existence; it needs to be used from time to time in situations like this one.

“Look, the American people overwhelmingly support this – Republicans, Democrats alike. We’re talking about three out of four Americans – regardless of political party – want to make it easy to vote and hard to cheat. That’s what the House-passed SAVE America Act does, and the Senate needs to be willing to do that hard work to make sure that happens.

“If we put it on the floor tomorrow, and we announce that we’re going to debate it until it passes, I’m confident that we can get there.”

–

Watch Senator Lee call on the Senate to stop vacationing and start working here.

Senator Lee on the Senate Vacationing Instead of Voting:

“Days or weeks can feel like months or years to United States senators who want to be doing other things. The truth is we haven't tried what I believe it takes to get the Save America Act passed, which is to put it on the floor and to say we're going to debate this for weeks. And we'll stay through weekends, we'll stay through previously scheduled recesses if necessary, but we're going to stay on this bill until it passes.

“Nothing sharpens the mind, nothing hastens agreement, nothing will bring about face-saving and perfecting amendments, quite like the obligation to stay in and debate something that is popular with the American people when filibustering senators trying to slow it down are becoming steadily less popular in their arguments.”

–

Watch Senator Lee discuss President Trump’s navigation of Iran here.

Senator Lee on President Trump’s America-First Leadership on Iran:

“Let's remember that President Trump is not like other presidents who have tried to address this issue. Both President Obama and President Biden negotiated from a position of weakness. President Trump has done everything that is absolutely necessary to make sure that we're negotiating from a position of strength.

“This is the master of the art of the deal – don't count him out.

“In fact, I would bank on the fact that President Trump will make darn sure Iran complies. And if it doesn't, Iran will face very unpleasant consequences. Iran has seen already what happens when you mess with President Trump, and they will see it again if they don't comply.”

###",1,2026-06-23T06:27:52Z,2026-06-23T06:29:20Z