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://allen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4923,"Reps. Allen, Stefanik, Foxx, Banks, Sen. Braun Lead Opposition to Biden Vaccine Mandate in Upcoming SCOTUS Case",2021-12-30,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,GA,Rick W. Allen,A000372,allen.house.gov,allen,https://allen.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Today, Congressman Rick W. Allen (GA-12), House Republican Conference Chair Elise Stefanik (NY-21), House Education and Labor Committee Republican Leader Virginia Foxx (NC-05), Republican Study Committee Chairman Jim Banks (IN-03), and Senator Mike Braun (R-IN) led over 130 Representatives and over 40 Senators in filing an amicus brief to the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) in the upcoming case considering the Biden Administration’s top-down Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) Emergency Temporary Standard (ETS) requiring private employers with over 100 employees to mandate the COVID-19 vaccine or weekly testing. The brief argues that Congress did not give OSHA the authority to impose a vaccine mandate and urges SCOTUS to stay the mandate.

In the brief, the Members write: “Congressional members have an interest in the powers they delegate to agencies not being abused—the legislative authority vested in the federal government belongs to Congress, not the Executive branch. In this case, the promulgation by the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) of a sweeping, nationwide vaccine mandate on businesses intrudes into an area of legislative concern far beyond the authority of the agency. And it does so with a Mandate enacted through OSHA’s seldom-used ‘emergency temporary standard’ (ETS) provision that allows for bypass of notice and comment rulemaking under certain circumstances. That OSHA exceeded its authority in enacting the ETS Mandate is not a ‘particularly hard’ question.”

The Members continue: “Moreover, congressional members—as representatives of the people of their States and districts—have an interest in the citizens they represent being able to craft local solutions to problems facing their States and districts. Federalism concerns should be addressed before requiring federally-imposed solutions. And this is especially true when the question at issue involves an area typically reserved to the States (such as vaccine mandates). At the least, Congress should be forced to make clear any delegations of authority into areas of State control.”

Full text of the brief is available here.

The brief was signed by: Reps. Rick W. Allen, Elise Stefanik, Virginia Foxx, Jim Banks, Kevin McCarthy, Steve Scalise, Robert Aderholt, Mark Amodei, Kelly Armstrong, Jodey C. Arrington, Brian Babin, Don Bacon, James R. Baird, Troy Balderson, Andy Barr, Jack Bergman, Andy Biggs, Dan Bishop, Mo Brooks, Vern Buchanan, Ted Budd, Michael C. Burgess, M.D., Kat Cammack, Earl “Buddy” Carter, Steve Chabot, Ben Cline, Michael Cloud, Andrew Clyde, James Comer, Eric A. “Rick” Crawford, Dan Crenshaw, Warren Davidson, Rodney Davis, Jeff Duncan, Neal Dunn, Ron Estes, Pat Fallon, A. Drew Ferguson, IV, Michelle Fischbach, Scott Fitzgerald, Brian Fitzpatrick, Chuck Fleischmann, Jeff Fortenberry, Russ Fulcher, Matt Gaetz, Mike Gallagher, Bob Gibbs, Louie Gohmert, Bob Good, Lance Gooden, Paul Gosar, Kay Granger, Garret Graves, Mark Green, Marjorie Taylor Greene, H. Morgan Griffith, Glenn Grothman, Michael Guest, Brett Guthrie, Andy Harris, M.D., Diana Harshbarger, Vicky Hartzler, Yvette Herrell, Jody Hice, French Hill, Ashley Hinson, Richard Hudson, Darrell Issa, Ronny L. Jackson, Chris Jacobs, Bill Johnson, Dusty Johnson, Mike Johnson, Jim Jordan, John Joyce, M.D., Fred Keller, Trent Kelly, David Kustoff, Doug LaMalfa, Doug Lamborn, Jake LaTurner, Debbie Lesko, Billy Long, Barry Loudermilk, Nancy Mace, Nicole Malliotakis, Tracey Mann, Thomas Massie, Brian Mast, Lisa McClain, Tom McClintock, Patrick McHenry, David B. McKinley, P.E., Cathy McMorris Rodgers, Dan Meuser, Mary Miller, Carol D. Miller, Mariannette Miller-Meeks, M.D., John Moolenaar, Alexander X. Mooney, Barry Moore, Blake Moore, Markwayne Mullin, Gregory F. Murphy, M.D., Dan Newhouse, Ralph Norman, Jay Obernolte, Burgess Owens, Steven Palazzo, Gary Palmer, Scott Perry, August Pfluger, Bill Posey, Mike D. Rogers, John Rose, David Rouzer, Chip Roy, John Rutherford, Austin Scott, Adrian Smith, Jason Smith, Lloyd Smucker, Victoria Spartz, Michelle Steel, W. Gregory Steube, Claudia Tenney, Glenn “GT” Thompson, Beth Van Duyne, Ann Wagner, Tim Walberg, Jackie Walorski, Randy Weber, Bruce Westerman, Roger Williams, Joe Wilson, Robert J. Wittman

Sens. John Barrasso, Marsha Blackburn, Roy Blunt, John Boozman, Mike Braun, Richard Burr, Shelley Moore Capito, Bill Cassidy, Tom Cotton, John Cornyn, Kevin Cramer, Mike Crapo, Ted Cruz, Steven Daines, Joni Ernst, Deb Fischer, Lindsey O. Graham, Chuck Grassley, Bill Hagerty, Josh Hawley, John Hoeven, Cindy Hyde-Smith, Jim Inhofe, Ron Johnson, John Kennedy, James Lankford, Cynthia Lummis, Michael S. Lee, Roger Marshall, Mitch McConnell, Jerry Moran, Lisa Murkowski, Rand Paul, Rob Portman, James E. Risch, Mike Rounds, Marco Rubio, Ben Sasse, Rick Scott, Tim Scott, Richard C. Shelby, Dan Sullivan, John Thune, Thom Tillis, Patrick Toomey, Roger Wicker, Todd Young

Background:

On December 17, 2021, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit lifted the Fifth Circuit’s stay of the Biden Administration’s vaccine mandate for large employers. The Department of Labor has stated it will begin enforcing the ETS on January 10, 2022. The Department will also give employers acting in good faith until February 9, 2022 before it will begin issuing citations for violations of the mandate’s testing requirements.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-announces-4764680-in-bipartisan-infrastructure-law-funds-to-help-local-airports,"CONGRESSMAN BISHOP ANNOUNCES $4,764,680 IN BIPARTISAN INFRASTRUCTURE LAW FUNDS TO HELP LOCAL AIRPORTS",2021-12-21,2021,2021-12,Democrat,House,GA,"Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.",B000490,bishop.house.gov,bishop,https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) applauded the recent announcement of funds to local and regional airports in Middle and Southwest Georgia made possible by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, more commonly known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Congressman Bishop, a strong advocate for the historic investment in America's infrastructure, voted to pass the bill last month and it was subsequently signed into law by President Biden on November 15th.

""Today, we are seeing how federal legislation can make a difference in communities across our country and across Middle and Southwest Georgia. Our regional airports and local airfields are gateways to the communities they serve, play a crucial role in their economies, and improve access to vital services,"" said Congressman Bishop. ""Making robust investments in our nation's infrastructure sets us up for success in the decades to come. We delivered the bipartisan infrastructure bill through Congress last month and today we are seeing the fruits of our labor come home to Georgia.""

Altogether, 14 airports throughout Georgia's Second Congressional District received $4,764,680 through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. These included airports in Albany, Americus, Bainbridge, Blakely, Butler, Cairo, Camilla, Columbus, Cordele, Dawson, Donalsonville, Macon (Middle Georgia Regional and Macon Downtown airports), and Montezuma.

""We appreciate the 1.1 million dollars awarded to the Southwest Georgia Regional Airport. The funds will improve infrastructure to make the airport a more safe and reliable source of transportation,"" said Albany City Manager Steven Carter. ""The award also allows us to move long-range projects to the forefront to address immediate needs such as ramp and taxiway improvements. Furthermore, the SWGA Regional Airport is a vital economic driver to the community and the southwest Georgia region. This award will assist us with being competitive in attracting the business aviation community to the area.""

""Our airport is a growing economic engine for the entire region, and these funds will help us continue to support current tenants and attract new ones,"" said Macon-Bibb County Mayor Lester M. Miller.

""The Columbus Airport will receive 1.3 million dollars from the latest Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL),"" said Columbus Airport Director Amber Clark. ""These funds will allow the airport to make improvements on the airfield, and purchase capital equipment and prepare the airport for continued growth""

""The Jimmy Carter Regional Airport plays a huge role in the economic vitality of Americus and Sumter County, as well as, other surrounding counties,"" said Americus Mayor Barry Blount. ""I'm positive that the Americus-Sumter Airport Authority will be able to provide additional enhancements and improvements to our airport, which in turn, will pay dividends in our economic development efforts. We are very appreciative of this funding made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.""

""Our airport is a gateway to the City of Cairo and plays an important role in our local economy. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funds will go a long way to help make improvements that can expand the potential for economic development in our community,"" said Chris Addleton, Cairo City Manager and Airport Administrator. ""We are certainly grateful to Congressman Bishop for looking after us and ensuring that we get these funds.""

""Local airports are just like the roads and highways that connect communities. Our airport is instrumental in supporting and growing local businesses as well as providing jobs."" said Camilla City Manager Steve Sykes. ""These Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funds will make a huge difference. Capital improvements — from hangers to terminals — will increase economic opportunities for Camilla and Mitchell County.""

""We are very excited to receive Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funds for the Crisp County Airport. The Crisp County Airport is vital to economic growth in several south Georgia counties,"" said Crisp County Administrator Clark Harrell. ""On behalf of the Crisp County Board of Commissioners, I would like to thank Congressman Bishop for his dedication, leadership and hard work on the national level to keep funding flowing to our local community.""

""Airports like ours allow the community to move at the speed of commerce. They open the door to people visiting us, support local business, and attract large companies beyond our county and state. Infrastructure projects often are front-loaded expenses and raising the capital needed can be a challenge for smaller communities. But even small improvements to facilities can mean a big difference to our community,"" said Dawson-Terrell County Airport Authority Chair Marl Halbrook. ""These Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funds coming to Dawson are great news right before the holidays and will help strengthen our area's economy in the years ahead.""

""Our airport has a huge impact on Decatur County and the surrounding area's economy. It provides access to companies looking to call our community home and create jobs. It also welcomes thousands of people each year for seasonal events and those visitors bolster our local businesses,"" said Decatur County Commission Chair Pete Stephens. ""The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funds will be a tremendous help as we continue to improve our airport, creating new opportunities for the people that live and work here.""

""Our airport welcomes people to Seminole County, helps create new business opportunities, and is home to aircraft vital to the tri-state area's farming communities. Taken together, it creates several dozen jobs and has over a $5 million impact on the region's economy,"" said Donalsonville-Seminole County Airport Commission Chairman, Jerry Isler. ""The funds coming to us through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will help improve facilities and support the airport's crucial role in our community.""

""Our airport gets a great deal of use and can be the first impression people have when visiting Early County. The funds available through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law are coming at the right time and can help in many ways, such as expanding our facilities to host more of our residents' aircrafts. We look forward to improving our facilities to better serve our county and the surrounding area,"" said Early County Commission Chairman Hank Jester.

""This is great news for Montezuma and Macon County. The Dr. C. P. Savage Sr. Airport has been making capital improvements to the airfield, terminal, hangers, and taxiway. The newly announced funds made possible by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will help us continue to expand our facilities,"" said Montezuma Mayor Larry Smith. ""The airport is part of our county's economic engine. As we improve and expand our airport, it attracts new businesses and good paying jobs to our community.""

Airports receiving awards will receive a similar tranche of funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law each year for the next five years, as part of a program for airport development. The amount could vary from year to year, as the funding reflects annual enplanement totals.

In addition to these guaranteed funds, these airports can compete with other airports across the country for grants from an additional $5 billion nationally for terminal and landside improvements.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=8650,Mission Accomplished: FAA Approves Launch Site Operator License For Spaceport Camden,2021-12-20,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,GA,"Earl L. ""Buddy"" Carter",C001103,buddycarter.house.gov,buddycarter,https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WOODBINE, Ga. – Camden County, Georgia, a rocket testing location and alternate launch site for the Apollo program, has reclaimed its aerospace heritage with the issuance of a launch site operator license (LSOL) by the Federal Aviation Administration for Spaceport Camden. Spaceport Camden is a multi user, vertical lift, commercial launch site on the Atlantic seaboard that will support up to 12 small vehicle launches per year.

“Opportunity - that is what Spaceport Camden’s LSOL is providing Camden County. Our already world-class economy is now diversifying in a way that will catapult Georgia into the 21st century and beyond,” said U.S. Representative Earl L. “Buddy” Carter. “I am immensely proud of Spaceport Camden for their hard work and innovation that made this possible. With this announcement, Georgia’s First District has solidified itself as a global leader.”

“In the 20th century Camden County was declared the ‘Gateway to Space.’ With this license, we have retained that title again in the 21st century,” said Steve Howard, Camden County Administrator and Spaceport Camden executive project lead. “This once in a generation opportunity will provide a new frontier of economic prosperity for Camden, the region and the state of Georgia. Georgia is part of the new space race, and we will become one of the leaders,” added Howard.

“It has been long time coming, but Camden County is immensely proud of this accomplishment. With this license, Spaceport Camden offers coastal Georgia over 100 miles of opportunity,” said Board of County Commissioners Chairman, Gary Blount. “We are no longer a one-dimensional economy solely reliant on the brave sailors and contractors at Naval Submarine Base Kings Bay for economic prosperity,” added Blount.

Spaceport Camden becomes the thirteenth licensed spaceport in the United States, but just the third vertical lift facility on the East Coast. Vertical lift comprises the lion’s share of commercial space activity and low latitude east coast launch sites are preferred due to the extra velocity provided by the rotation of the Earth.

Located below 31 degrees of latitude, Spaceport Camden takes advantage of free boost velocity from the earth’s rotation to maximize payload and minimize fuel necessary to reach orbit. As a result, Spaceport Camden’s location offers similar launch characteristics to Cape Canaveral, the world’s busiest spaceport.

Camden County is the ideal location to meet growing launch demand from the commercial space industry - a $447 billion industry that Bank of America predicts will grow to $3 trillion by 2047. Not only does Camden County have a highly trained military workforce that can transition upon retirement to employment into the commercial space industry, the surrounding area has transportation infrastructure such as roads and rail that can provide support to the investment community.

Spaceport Camden comes online of increasing demand for vertical lift launch capacity. A recentstudy for the Pentagon found that the majority of US Spaceports are unsuitable for future launch needs because they are horizontal, not vertical launch sites like Spaceport Camden. The study notes, “[d]ue to the inherent performance limitations of horizontal launch, the future space economy will be dependent on vertical launch.”

The study also found that without additional vertical lift capacity at sites like Spaceport Camden “…the U.S. will still remain precariously dependent on a handful of key spaceports – a dependency that, if not resolved, will undermine U.S. interests strategically and commercially in the next decade.”

Launch providers seeking to utilize Spaceport Camden will still need to have their individual vehicles approved by the FAA to launch from Spaceport Camden - a standard requirement under the agency’s rules. All launch vehicles must be individually licensed.

More about Spaceport Camden: Their Vision is to develop a successful world class spaceport through a public private partnership that establishes Camden County as the Commercial Space Center of the United States. Their Mission is to create the premier spaceport strategically positioned to provide economic diversity with a competitive advantage for the space sector, Camden County, the State of Georgia and the United States of America. For more information, please view www.SpaceportCamden.us.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=8652,Carter helps secure $14.6 million for Georgia Ports,2021-12-20,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,GA,"Earl L. ""Buddy"" Carter",C001103,buddycarter.house.gov,buddycarter,https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Department of Transportation (DOT) announced today that it is authorizing $14.6 million to the Georgia Ports Authority to expand operations at the Brunswick Port.

Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) voted for this funding, which was authorized under the FY 2021 Appropriations Act signed into law under President Trump.

“This is exactly the type of strategic, targeted investment that will alleviate the supply chain crunch at our Ports and help Georgia maintain its status as a world-class shipping leader,” said Carter.

Specifically, the funding will go towards constructing “a fourth roll-on/roll-off (Ro-Ro) vessel berth at the Port of Brunswick's Colonel's Island Terminal in order to add needed capacity at the nation's second busiest Ro-Ro cargo port and more efficiently accommodate the larger 7,000-plus-unit vehicle carrier vessels that are becoming the industry standard for Ro-Ro ships calling at U.S. ports,” according to the DOT’s grant announcement.

Rep. Carter wrote a letter to Secretary Buttigieg back in June urging him to approve this grant, citing the “the growing volume of U.S. automotive exports at the Port,” and the project’s potential to create “immediate and long-term family wage jobs.”

“Taxpayer dollars should benefit the taxpayers. This grant will create generations of good-paying, in-demand jobs that will further attract businesses, people, and workers to Georgia’s First District,” said Carter. “I thank former President Trump for advocating for this legislation and the Georgia Ports Authority for their innovation and leadership, which made today’s grant announcement possible.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-statement-on-the-passing-of-former-senator-johnny-isakson,CONGRESSMAN BISHOP STATEMENT ON THE PASSING OF FORMER SENATOR JOHNNY ISAKSON,2021-12-19,2021,2021-12,Democrat,House,GA,"Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.",B000490,bishop.house.gov,bishop,https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"COLUMBUS, GA – Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) issued the following statement regarding the passing of former U.S. Senator Johnny Isakson of Georgia:

""Vivian and I were deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our friend, Johnny Isakson. I had the privilege of working with him and sharing a friendship for many years — first as colleagues in the Georgia Legislature and then in Congress during his time in the U.S. House of Representatives as well as the U.S. Senate.

""Johnny was a champion for Georgia in Washington, D.C. We stood side-by-side in support of Georgia's military bases, families, and veterans.

""Johnny knew how to work across the aisle for all Americans and our country is better today for his service. My thoughts and prayers go to his wife, Dianne, and his family. He was loved by many and will be greatly missed.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=8649,Carter on passing of Senator Isakson,2021-12-19,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,GA,"Earl L. ""Buddy"" Carter",C001103,buddycarter.house.gov,buddycarter,https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, former Georgia Senator Johnny Isakson tragically passed away. Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) paid tribute to this great Georgian:

“Senator Isakson is one of the greatest Georgians to ever walk the halls of Congress. When you were with Senator Isakson, there was an inescapable sense that you were witnessing history,” said Carter.

“I am proud to call Senator Isakson a mentor. Last year, I had the honor to watch as he and the late Congressman John Lewis embraced on the House Floor. I will not soon forget that moment, as two of the greatest voices for freedom in our generation, both from Georgia, proved yet again that respect knows no political party. Senator Isakson, thank you for setting an example for what it means to govern with integrity. My thoughts and prayers are with your wife, Dianne, and family during this trying time.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-johnson-leads-tour-tout-new-infrastructure-law,Rep. Johnson Leads Tour to Tout New Infrastructure Law,2021-12-18,2021,2021-12,Democrat,House,GA,"Henry C. ""Hank"" Johnson, Jr.",J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,hankjohnson,https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"STONECREST, GA—On Dec. 16 and Dec. 17, Rep. Hank Johnson (GA-04), led a two-day tour across Georgia's Fourth Congressional District to tout the passing of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, also known as the Bipartisan Infrastructure law.

""This new infrastructure law will create millions of good-paying union jobs with a once-in-a-century investment in rebuilding infrastructure in Georgia: from roads and bridges, transit and rail, to wastewater systems and high-speed broadband,"" said Rep. Johnson, a Senior Member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. ""This new law marks a generational change and renews investments in a cleaner, more sustainable future for America.""

The two-day tour started at a Vulcan Materials Company facility in Lithonia on Dec. 16 and concluded on Dec.17 at several infrastructure projects throughout Newton County such as the Dried Indian Creek bridge, which hasn't had any significant repairs since 1959.

""The 12,000 employees that work for Vulcan across the country appreciate Congress passing the Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill. The bill is all about transportation and infrastructure, and of course what we do is facilitate that by making the primary ingredients that go into construction, not only for just transportation in roads and bridges, but also for infrastructure for homes, churches, schools and libraries,"" said Jimmy Fleming, Vulcan Vice President of Permitting and External Relations. ""Congressman Johnson has his fingerprints all over this bill and we appreciate his work on this bill and his work on the T&I committee.""

Newton County Chairman Marcello Banes said the people of Newton County are thankful to have Congressman Johnson working for them and making this bill happen for Newton and the State of Georgia.

""I am grateful for the time Congressman Johnson took to ride around Newton County and see the need for improvements to our transportation infrastructure here at the local level,"" said Chairman Banes. ""This means a lot to us and we are excited about the new law and the opportunities to receive some of the federal funds and have some of them allocated to Newton County.""

The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law delivers big for Georgia:

• Georgia can expect to receive approximately $9.2 billion over five years in Federal highway formula funding for highways and bridges.

• The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law invests $13 billion directly into improving roadway safety.

• The law means $12 billion for partnership grants for intercity rail service, including high-speed rail. Georgia will also be eligible to compete for $5 billion for rail improvement and safety grants and $3 billion for grade crossing safety improvements.

• Airports in Georgia would receive approximately $619 million for infrastructure development over five years.

State Senator Tonya Anderson, who represents Newton County in the state legislature said the entire county of Newton is very excited about the new federal funding that will come down to the state of Georgia.

""When you think about better roads, better drains, anyone who works in local government should consider this an early Christmas gift, a Christmas miracle,"" said Senator Anderson who also represents portions of DeKalb and Rockdale, as well as Newton County. ""This bill proves that bipartisan work is critical for historic legislation such as this to come to fruition and I am really looking forward to the improvements for our highways, roads, bridges and most of all the broadband improvements. Broadband is critical for our schools, our businesses and economic development as a whole.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-applauds-white-house-program-following-bipartisan-call-for-increased-commercial-truck-driver-workforce,CONGRESSMAN BISHOP APPLAUDS WHITE HOUSE PROGRAM FOLLOWING BIPARTISAN CALL FOR INCREASED COMMERCIAL TRUCK DRIVER WORKFORCE,2021-12-17,2021,2021-12,Democrat,House,GA,"Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.",B000490,bishop.house.gov,bishop,https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) applauded yesterday's announcement by the Biden Administration to implement a pilot program that would help get more commercial truck drivers on the road to mend the country's strained supply chain. In November, Congressman Bishop joined a bipartisan letter signed by 60 Members of Congress urging the White House to hasten the process to certify new commercial driver's licenses through apprenticeship programs.

""The COVID-19 pandemic wreaked havoc on America's supply chain. A shortage of truck drivers has significantly contributed to the bottlenecks in the supply chain. I was pleased to work with Democrats and Republicans in Congress to call on the White House to take action and am glad to announce that the Biden Administration has quickly delivered,"" said Congressman Bishop. ""Long haul trucks move goods across the country as well as to and from our backed up ports, like Savannah, Georgia. The program announced today builds on established apprenticeship programs to build a larger, qualified workforce. It also provides funds for states to speed up the processing of CDLs.""

The U.S. Department of Transportation program will accelerate the expansion of Registered Apprenticeship programs for drivers that put more skilled, safe drivers on the road. It will also take immediate steps to address the pandemic-driven delays in getting a commercial driver's license. The program will also make additional effort to engage veterans and underrepresented communities, such as women, to pursue good driving jobs.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=DA3E8BDE-C0A7-4920-AD5C-BE3AAA483DA9,"Rep. McBath Announces Peachtree-DeKalb Airport to Receive $763,000 From Bipartisan Infrastructure Law",2021-12-17,2021,2021-12,Democrat,House,GA,Lucy McBath,M001208,mcbath.house.gov,mcbath,https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Marietta, GA — Today, Rep. Lucy McBath announced that $763,000 in new federal funding under the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act is headed to Georgia to make much-needed improvements to Peachtree-DeKalb Airport. The money can be invested in runways, taxiways, safety and sustainability projects, as well as terminal, airport-transit connections, and roadway projects.

“Thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, this new $763,000 grant will deliver new, good-paying jobs for Georgians while making sorely needed renovations to Peachtree-DeKalb Airport,” said McBath. “By making these critical investments in our local airport infrastructure, we are stimulating Georgia’s economy and ensuring that all travelers flying to and from our state have an easier and safer journey.”

Each year for the next five years, Peachtree-DeKalb Airport will receive similar funding from the historic Bipartisan Infrastructure Law as part of a program for airport development. In addition to these guaranteed funds, Peachtree-DeKalb Airport can compete with other airports across the country for grants from an additional $5 billion nationally for terminal and landside improvements.

On November 15th, President Biden signed the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which included $15 billion in formula funding to help redevelop airports across the country. Projects that qualify for funding include: improvements to runways and taxiways, terminal development, and noise prevention. The law also includes an additional $5 billion nationally for FAA towers and facilities funding, which the FAA will distribute among airports in need.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://austinscott.house.gov/press-releases?ID=CA61DB1D-5C0A-4A43-8122-5A75D5D8475C,Rep. Austin Scott Announces 2021 Congressional App Challenge Winner,2021-12-16,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,GA,Austin Scott,S001189,austinscott.house.gov,austinscott,https://austinscott.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Contest enriches STEM fields in middle and high school students.

HAHIRA, GA.-- Representative Austin Scott (GA-08) today announced the Eighth District's 2021 Congressional App Challenge winners, Aarin Dave and Deshaun Hester. A panel of engineering judges chose the two Hahira Middle School 8th graders as winners for their Android App, LifeLearn.

LifeLearn was created to help kids with physical & mental disabilities learn basic life skills that many elementary students already know. This is done in a clear and accessible manner in videos by their peers on the app. The winners were inspired to create this app by their fellow students who often struggled with basic life skills. The team consulted with the Life Skills teacher at Hahira Middle to better understand the behavior and needs of this particular student population and created an app that could make a difference.

LifeLearn will be featured on the U.S. House of Representative's website (www.house.gov) and displayed in an exhibit in the U.S. Capitol Building alongside winners from other participating Congressional Districts across the country.

The Congressional App Challenge is an annual, nationwide event intended to engage students' creativity and encourage their participation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) fields. This competition allows students to compete with peers throughout their own Congressional District by creating and exhibiting their software application, or ""app,"" for web, PC, tablet, mobile, or other platforms of their choice.

All current middle and high school students (6-12th grade) who reside in or attend school in the Eighth Congressional District are encouraged to start planning for the 2022 Congressional App Challenge. Students may compete as individuals or in teams of up to four, as long as two of the teammates are eligible to participate in the district. More details will be announced next Spring.

Additional details can be found on Rep. Scott’s website https://austinscott.house.gov/help-center/congressional-app-challenge or by contacting Rep. Scott’s Warner Robins office at (478) 971-1776.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-announces-more-than-6-million-to-support-rural-healthcare-and-physician-training-in-middle-and-southwest-georgia,CONGRESSMAN BISHOP ANNOUNCES MORE THAN $6 MILLION TO SUPPORT RURAL HEALTHCARE AND PHYSICIAN TRAINING IN MIDDLE AND SOUTHWEST GEORGIA,2021-12-16,2021,2021-12,Democrat,House,GA,"Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.",B000490,bishop.house.gov,bishop,https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) announced that CareConnect Health is receiving a $5,626,121 grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) through the Health Center Program to improve and expand health services across Middle and Southwest Georgia. Last month, CareConnect was also awarded $499,999 from HHS through its Teaching Health Center Planning and Development Program. Over 114,000 patients are served by CareConnect Health centers, of whom nearly half live at or below the Federal Poverty Guideline.

""Rural populations face the two-fold problem of higher rates of poverty and lower access to healthcare resources. As the leader of the House Appropriations subcommittee which addresses rural development, I have worked hard with my colleagues across the aisle to make sure that quality healthcare is available — close to home — for our families in rural communities,"" said Congressman Bishop. ""These funds show that we are continuing to make robust federal investments in our rural healthcare infrastructure to improve facilities as well as encourage more physicians and nurses to work in these communities.""

The Teaching Health Center Planning and Development Program supports the development of new accredited primary care residency programs in family medicine, internal medicine, pediatrics, internal medicine-pediatrics, psychiatry, obstetrics and gynecology, general dentistry, pediatric dentistry, and geriatrics to address the physician workforce shortages and challenges faced by rural and underserved communities.

CareConnect Health, Inc. was founded in 1978 in Richland, Georgia, and has since expanded to provide access to healthcare in Americus, Buena Vista, Butler, Byron, Cordele, Cusseta, Cuthbert, Dawson, Ellaville, Forsyth, Fort Valley, Georgetown, Montezuma, Moultrie, Oglethorpe, Perry, Roberta, Thomaston, Tifton, Warner Robins, and more. The HHS grant funds announced will help maintain these health centers.

In the last month, HHS also awarded $2,173,928 through the Health Resources & Services Administration's (HRSA) Health Center Cluster grant program to Valley Healthcare System, Inc. which is based in Columbus, Georgia. The purpose of this grant is to provide financial assistance to Health Centers so they can continue offering comprehensive services in underserved communities.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-votes-to-protect-the-full-faith-and-credit-of-the-united-states,CONGRESSMAN BISHOP VOTES TO PROTECT THE FULL FAITH AND CREDIT OF THE UNITED STATES,2021-12-15,2021,2021-12,Democrat,House,GA,"Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.",B000490,bishop.house.gov,bishop,https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) joined Democrats and Republicans to adopt must-pass legislation that prevents the United States from defaulting on the federal debt. The legislation is not related to currently proposed spending and programs recently passed by Congress. Rather, it addresses federal debt primarily accumulated during previous presidential administrations.

""This vote protects the full faith and credit of this country. This is not about future spending but meeting the obligations we already have. This includes our obligations to the American people who rely on Social Security and our commitment to our military veterans,"" said Congressman Bishop. ""Now, more than ever, Congress needs to assure fiscal stability as we recover from the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic.""

Protecting the full faith and credit of the United States is an imperative that is written into the Constitution: The Fourteenth Amendment, Section Four states: ""The validity of the public debt of the United States, authorized by law… shall not be questioned."" Congress has raised the debt limit nearly 80 times since 1960 — 30 times with a Democrat in the White House and 49 times under a Republican president.

""Over the last decade, every time the debt ceiling needed to be raised in order to pay America's obligations both sides of the aisle came together to discharge this responsibility and avoid a catastrophic default. Today we do so again,"" added Congressman Bishop.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=8629,Carter rejects Democrats’ bid to raise federal debt,2021-12-15,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,GA,"Earl L. ""Buddy"" Carter",C001103,buddycarter.house.gov,buddycarter,https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - The House early this morning officially sent a bill to President Biden’s desk to raise the debt limit up to nearly $31 trillion. Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) proudly voted against this reckless legislation.

On a nearly party line 221-209 vote, the House advanced S.J. Res 33, which paves the way to funding Washington Democrats’ radical tax and spending sprees.

“Do not believe Pelosi, Biden, and Schumers’ lies - we did not raise the debt ceiling today to pay the nation’s existing debt. They did it so they could fund their socialist infrastructure and build back broke schemes,” said Carter. “I fully support the United States following through on its obligations and paying back our debt; but, I do not support Congressional Democrats and the Biden Administration manipulating what should be a bipartisan process to spend trillions of taxpayer dollars that will indebt our children, entrench bureaucracy into Americans’ lives, and benefit only the wealthy.”

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=8630,Carter introduces For the Parents Act,2021-12-15,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,GA,"Earl L. ""Buddy"" Carter",C001103,buddycarter.house.gov,buddycarter,https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, U.S. Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) introduced the For the Parents Act, which will prohibit federal funding of public schools and institutions of higher education that teach the racist and divisive ideology known as Critical Race Theory (CRT).

Taxpayer dollars should not flow towards institutions that peddle lies and hate to our students and children. The For the Parents Act protects the integrity of federally-funded curricula and parents’ rights to have a say in their child’s education.

“America is not an inherently racist nation. We were built on the premise that all are created equal and are the freest nation to ever exist. Our children should learn about the whole of the American story, from the sin of slavery to the abolitionists and suffragettes. But they should do so in a way that inspires and unites them as a people to make the world a better place,” said Carter.

Across the nation, parents are showing up at school board meetings to protest curriculum containing controversial CRT teachings, which divides students up into victim and oppressor groups based solely on the color of their skin.

“With this bill, we are sending the message to our youth that no matter the color of their skin, there is room for them to succeed in America,” said Carter. “Martin Luther King Jr. famously longed for the day that we would ‘live in a nation where [children] will not be judged by the color of their skin.’ CRT will make that dream unattainable.”

Original co-sponsors for the bill include Reps. Jeff Duncan (R-SC), Randy Weber (R-TX), Tom Tiffany (R-WI), Louie Gohmert (R-TX), and Brian Babin (R-TX).

Read the full text of the bill here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-johnson-votes-protect-full-faith-credit-united-states-address-debt,"Rep. Johnson Votes to Protect Full Faith & Credit of United States, Address Debt Ceiling",2021-12-15,2021,2021-12,Democrat,House,GA,"Henry C. ""Hank"" Johnson, Jr.",J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,hankjohnson,https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Henry ""Hank"" Johnson released the following statement after working to prevent a default on federal debt:

""As our economy continues to recover from the pandemic and families struggle with rising prices, we cannot further stretch families' budgets by allowing the economy to crater. That is why I voted to protect Georgians' financial future by addressing the debt ceiling.

After Republicans added $2 trillion to the debt with their GOP tax scam for the rich, I'm proud that House Democrats' Build Back Better Act will instead reduce the deficit by more than $100 billion in the first ten years and by $2 trillion in the next decade.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://allen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4918,Allen Leads Letter to Help Utilize Nuclear Production Tax Credit for Plant Vogtle,2021-12-14,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,GA,Rick W. Allen,A000372,allen.house.gov,allen,https://allen.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Congressman Rick W. Allen (GA-12) today led a bipartisan, bicameral letter to the U.S. Department of the Treasury asking for guidance to be issued for the Advanced Nuclear Production Tax Credit (NPTC). Advanced nuclear facilities, particularly Plant Vogtle, are currently unable to utilize these tax credits until new guidance is issued. The letter is signed by members of Congress from Georgia, Alabama and Florida, as these unique tax credits will directly benefit customers served by Plant Vogtle in these states.

In their letter, the Members write:

“In Georgia, Plant Vogtle Units 3 and 4 are the first advanced nuclear units ever to be built in the U.S. These Units are expected to enter commercial service in the third quarter of 2022 (Unit 3) and second quarter of 2023 (Unit 4). Once completed, these units will produce enough clean electricity to power one million homes and businesses. Plant Vogtle is owned by four entities with differing ownership and governance structures. The 2018 changes to the NPTC extend the NPTC and provide a mechanism to assure that all co-owners of the plant, regardless of ownership structure and tax status, could equally benefit from the provision of tax credits. Guidance far in advance of the commercial operation of Units 3 and 4 will allow the co-owners of Plant Vogtle to plan for the allocation of tax credits and secure agreements to maximize the benefit of the tax credits generated by operating the plant.”

Full text of the letter can be found here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-johnson-holding-telephone-town-hall-infrastructure-law,"Congressman Johnson Holding Telephone Town Hall on Infrastructure Law, Build Back Better Act & Housing Help",2021-12-13,2021,2021-12,Democrat,House,GA,"Henry C. ""Hank"" Johnson, Jr.",J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,hankjohnson,https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"DECATUR, GA – On Monday, December 13 from 5:30-6:30, Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) is holding a telephone town hall to update Fourth District constituents on what's happening in Washington, including highlights on the American Rescue Plan, the bipartisan infrastructure law the Build Back Better Act, and what they mean for Georgia. He will also discuss how landlords and renters can access COVID-19 relief resources.

WHO:

Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) hosting telephone town hall;

60,000 constituents are being called to participate;

Atlanta Legal Aid Attorney Lindsey Siegel to discuss housing assistance;

WHEN: Monday, December 13 from 5:30-6:40 PM.

WHERE: Constituents and media can also sign up here: /live, listen live or follow live on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RepHankJohnson/. Constituents and officials can also listen in by calling 866-654-9483 during the call;

WHY: To update residents on what's happening In Washington on the bipartisan infrastructure law and the Build Back Better Act, and how they impact their lives in Georgia. COVID-19 relief resources for landlords and renters.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/bishop-statement-on-storms-and-tornadoes-across-the-midwest-and-the-south,BISHOP STATEMENT ON STORMS AND TORNADOES ACROSS THE MIDWEST AND THE SOUTH,2021-12-12,2021,2021-12,Democrat,House,GA,"Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.",B000490,bishop.house.gov,bishop,https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"COLUMBUS, GEORGIA. - Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) released the following statement regarding Friday night's devastating storms and tornadoes across the Midwest and the South:

""My heartfelt prayers go out to all those impacted by Friday's tornadoes. I am grateful to the first responders who are working tirelessly to find the missing, clearing debris, and caring for the injured.

""At least 100 people have perished and many more have been injured. Thousands now lack power, water, telecommunications, and the tools needed to sustain their livelihoods.

""I would urge everyone who can to offer aid to those in need directly or through any appropriate relief agencies and organizations. During trying times like these, it is important that we come together as a nation to support those that have been impacted. We must be there for them in the same way that they have been there for us.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-johnson-votes-strengthen-protect-our-democracy,"Rep. Johnson Votes to Strengthen, Protect Our Democracy",2021-12-10,2021,2021-12,Democrat,House,GA,"Henry C. ""Hank"" Johnson, Jr.",J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,hankjohnson,https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C.—This week, Rep. Hank Johnson (GA-04), voted to pass a comprehensive package of reforms to strengthen America's democratic institutions against future presidents who could seek to abuse the power of their office for corrupt purposes.

""The past four years revealed serious vulnerabilities in our democratic systems – vulnerabilities that can and will be exploited again if we don't act urgently to address them,"" said Rep. Johnson. ""The Protecting Our Democracy Act will take immediate steps to safeguard and strengthen our democracy so no future president - regardless of political party - can act as if they are above the law. And it will restore the accountability and transparency of our institutions so that the American people can have confidence in our government's ability to address the challenges they face.""

The proposals and policies – many of which have been supported by both Democrats and Republicans in the past – will restore the government's system of checks and balances, strengthen accountability and transparency, and protect America's elections from foreign interference. Bipartisanship proposals include efforts to strengthen congressional subpoenas, protect Congress' 'power of the purse' authority, and ensure whistleblowers face no retaliation when exposing corruption or abuse.

The Protecting Our Democracy Act was first introduced during the 116th Congress and reflects Congress' determination to restore the guardrails on our democratic systems. This year, the bill also stands as the third pillar of the 117th Congress' efforts to protect, support, and restore the people's faith in America's democratic systems — complementing both H.R. 1, the For the People Act, and H.R. 4, the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act.

Specifically, the Protecting Our Democracy Act will:

Prevent Presidential Abuses

Prevent Abuse of the Pardon Power: Requires the Department of Justice to provide materials to Congress concerning any self-serving presidential pardon or commutation in cases involving the President or his/her relatives, contempt of Congress, or obstruction of Congress; clarifies that the President and Vice President are ""public officials"" and pardons are ""official acts"" and ""things of value"" for purposes of the federal bribery statute, and prohibits self-pardons by the President.

Ensure No President is Above the Law: Suspends the statute of limitations for any federal offense committed by a sitting president or vice president, whether it was committed before or during their terms in office, to ensure that presidents and vice presidents can be held accountable for criminal conduct just like every other American and not use their offices as a shield to avoid legal consequences.

Enforce the Foreign and Domestic Emoluments Clauses of the Constitution: Codifies the Constitution's Foreign and Domestic Emoluments Clauses by prohibiting federal officials from accepting foreign emoluments without Congress's consent and prohibiting the President from accepting domestic emoluments; strengthens the process for civil actions brought by Congress for violations of the Foreign Emoluments Clause; enhances financial disclosure requirements related to emoluments; and provides enhanced enforcement mechanisms for Congress and entities within the Executive Branch.

Restore Our System of Checks and Balances, Strengthen Accountability, and Transparency

Enforce Congressional Subpoenas: Strengthens Congress' tools to enforce lawfully-issued subpoenas while preserving the accommodations process; codifies a cause of action for Congress to enforce its subpoenas, including those issued to government officials; expedites the judicial process for congressional subpoena enforcement actions; empowers courts to levy fines on government officials who willfully fail to comply with congressional subpoenas; and specifies the manner in which subpoena recipients must comply.

Reassert Congressional Power of the Purse: Strengthens Congress' power of the purse by enhancing the Impoundment Control Act (ICA), including by adding penalties for failure to comply; increasing transparency and reporting requirements for the Executive Branch; and strengthens congressional budget oversight tools under the ICA and Antideficiency Act (ADA) to prevent federal agencies from misusing federal funds.

Strengthen Congressional Oversight of Presidential Emergency Declarations: Imposes a limit on Presidential declarations of emergencies and any powers triggered by such declarations unless extended by a vote of the Congress; requires the President to provide all Presidential Emergency Action Documents (PEADs) to Congress.

Provide Security from Political Interference in Justice: In order to limit political interference in criminal and civil enforcement matters, requires the Attorney General to maintain a log of certain communications between the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the White House; requires the Attorney General to provide the log to the DOJ Inspector General (DOJ IG) bi-annually, and requires the DOJ IG to report to Congress any inappropriate communications or communications evidencing improper political interference.

Protect Inspector General Independence: Permits the President or the head of an agency to only remove an Inspector General (IG), including IGs of the Intelligence Community (IC), for a cause; clarifies that IGs of the IC have sole authority to determine matters of urgent concern, which include foreign interference in our elections; enhances congressional reporting requirements when an IG is removed; requires the President or an agency head to give 30 days' notice before placing an IG on administrative leave; and requires the President to provide to Congress documentation of cause before removing an IG.

Protect Whistleblowers: Enhances protections for federal whistleblowers, including measures to protect the anonymity of whistleblowers; clarifies the right of government employees, including those in the IC, to provide information directly to Congress; creates a private right of action for whistleblowers who are publicly outed by government officials; and limits the conditions under which a government official or employee may disclose a whistleblower's identity or other whistleblower information, including limitations on the sharing of IC whistleblower complaints with persons named as subjects in the complaint.

Provide Accountability for Acting Officials: Makes a series of changes with respect to the appointment, tenure, and qualifications of acting officials of executive agencies; limits the tenure of acting heads of agencies to no more than 120 days.

Strengthen Hatch Act Enforcement and Penalties: Strengthens the Office of Special Counsel's (OSC) ability to investigate violations of the Hatch Act; clarifies that employees of the Executive Office of the President and the Office of the Vice President can be investigated and disciplined for Hatch Act violations; authorizes Merit Service Protection Board (MSPB) to issue fines for Hatch Act violations committed by senior political appointees, and increases the maximum fine for Hatch Act violations by senior political appointees to $50,000.

Promoting Efficient Presidential Transitions: Promotes orderly presidential transitions by requiring that if the Administrator of General Services does not ascertain a winner in a presidential election within 5 days of the election, each eligible presidential candidate and the vice-presidential candidate shall be treated as the winner, until an ascertainment is made, or a winner is certified by Congress.

Presidential and Vice-Presidential Tax Transparency: Requires the president and Vice President, or major party candidates for those offices, to provide ten years of tax returns to the Federal Elections Commission (FEC), who is required to make them public. If a covered person does not provide their tax records, the Secretary of the Treasury is required to provide them to the FEC.

Protect Our Elections

Ensure Reporting of Foreign Interference in Elections: Requires that political committees report to the FBI and the Federal Elections Commission (FEC) certain foreign contacts; requires that each political candidate and immediate family member of a candidate notify a designated campaign committee official of certain foreign contacts; requires the FBI to report to the congressional intelligence committees any reporting received pursuant to these provisions.

Prevent Foreign Interference in Elections: Clarifies that the definition of a ""thing of value"" in the Federal Election Campaign Act prohibition on foreign donations to political campaigns and candidates includes information sought or obtained for political advantage; enhances criminal penalties for violations of such prohibition; requires that political campaigns certify that they understand the prohibition. The bill would also clarify campaign finance law to extend the ban on contributions by foreign nationals to include ballot initiatives and referendums.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-bishop-levin-mcmorris-rodgers-and-hudson-introduce-bill-to-open-school-meals-program-to-military-families,"REPS. BISHOP, LEVIN, MCMORRIS RODGERS, AND HUDSON INTRODUCE BILL TO OPEN SCHOOL MEALS PROGRAM TO MILITARY FAMILIES",2021-12-09,2021,2021-12,Democrat,House,GA,"Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.",B000490,bishop.house.gov,bishop,https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Representatives Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02), Mike Levin (CA-49), Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05), and Richard Hudson (NC-08) introduced the Military Dependents School Meal Eligibility Act to make it easier for military families to qualify for school meal programs. Nearly one in seven military families report experiencing food insecurity, but many do not qualify for programs like the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) and School Breakfast Program (SBP) because service members' housing allowances are considered income and push them out of eligibility. The Military Dependents School Meal Eligibility Act would stop counting service members' Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) as part of their income when determining eligibility for school meal programs, which would then qualify almost all children of entry-level, active duty service members for school meals, up through ranks E-6. It would also automatically enroll children of eligible service members into school meal programs so service members are no longer required to do burdensome paperwork every time they relocate.

A fact sheet on the bill is available here. Text of the legislation is available here.

""We have an obligation to our service members to ensure that their basic needs are met, which includes making sure that their families have access to the nutritious food needed to lead healthy and productive lives. When children in military families go hungry, their school success is put at risk,"" said Congressman Bishop. ""School meal programs have been an effective safety net for America's school children since the end of World War 2. I am proud to join my colleagues in assuring that school children in our military families — like those from Fort Benning, Robins Airforce Base, and the Marine Corps Logistics Base in Albany — also have access to school meal programs.""

""The men and women who risk their lives for our country should never struggle to feed their children, and it's unacceptable that nearly one in seven military families face food insecurity,"" said Congressman Levin. ""Our bipartisan legislation will help address that injustice by taking a more accurate measurement of service members' income and automatically enrolling the children of eligible active duty service members in school meal programs. While we must do more to improve the financial security of our men and women in uniform, this is an important step towards ensuring military parents around Camp Pendleton and across the country can focus on fulfilling their mission rather than on where their kids will find their next meal.""

""I've always said that joining the military is more than just a job – it's a family commitment to our country. That's why it's so disappointing that we find ourselves in a position where food insecurity is becoming a growing concern amongst our military families. This is not a challenge military families should be faced with, and we must do something to address it immediately,"" said Congresswoman Rodgers. ""While this bill won't fix everything, it will take an important step towards providing critical food security to military children and promote their success in the classroom, reduce financial stress for military families, and allow active duty service members at Fairchild Airforce Base and across the country to focus on serving our nation. Kids who have balanced, nutritious meals do better in school and experience better health outcomes. This is a commonsense piece of legislation, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to lead on it for our service members and their families.""

""Our service members and their families have enough challenges to worry about and putting food on the table should not be one of them,"" said Congressman Hudson. ""I'm proud to sponsor this bipartisan legislation that will ensure military dependents at Fort Bragg and across our nation have access to school meals. I look forward to working with my colleagues to advance this common sense bill that offers one more measure of support for our nation's men and women in uniform and their families.""

The Military Dependents School Meal Eligibility Act has been endorsed by the National Education Association, Food Research Action Center, Blue Star Families, MAZON: A Jewish Response to Hunger, San Diego Hunger Coalition, School Nutrition Association, California Association of Food Banks, and others.

""It's important to note that, while the military's Basic Allowance for Housing is adjusted regionally to account for different housing costs, base pay is not adjusted by region,"" said San Diego Hunger Coalition President and CEO Anahid Brakke. ""In an expensive area like San Diego County, the unintended consequence is that a bigger housing allowance makes military families ineligible for nutrition assistance programs like SNAP and free and reduced-price school meals, but their base pay isn't high enough to cover their other basic expenses in such a high-cost area. I applaud Congressman Levin for responding to the nutritional needs of his district with legislative action that will support military families by allowing for military dependents to be directly certified for free and reduced-price meals at school.""

""We are so grateful that Reps. Mike Levin, Cathy McMorris Rodgers, Sanford Bishop, and Richard Hudson are taking leadership to address military hunger, which is truly an urgent matter of mission readiness, retention, recruitment, and racial justice,"" said Josh Protas, Vice President of Public Policy at MAZON: A Jewish Response to Hunger. ""As detailed in MAZON's recent report, Hungry in the Military, children from military households are more likely to enter military service than their counterparts in civilian households, but if they experience food insecurity at a young age, they are at much greater risk of obesity, diabetes, and other diet-related chronic health conditions that could make them unfit to serve. By removing barriers to federal school meals programs and calling on the Department of Defense to directly certify children in military families, the Military Dependents School Meal Eligibility Act will take important steps to ensure the health and well-being of our service members and their families.""

""Too many children in need slip through the cracks in the complex and burdensome free and reduced-price meal application process,"" said School Nutrition Association President Beth Wallace, MBA, SNS. ""America owes it to the men and women who serve our country to ensure every eligible military dependent receives the benefits of nutritious school meals. By directly certifying eligible students for school meals, we can support the health and success of military dependents and ease burdens on our active-duty service members.""

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=8610,Carter Cosponsors Bill to Block CMS Vaccine Mandates,2021-12-09,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,GA,"Earl L. ""Buddy"" Carter",C001103,buddycarter.house.gov,buddycarter,https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C.—Congressman Earl L. ""Buddy"" Carter (R-GA) continues his charge against federal COVID-19 vaccine mandates, specifically as it related to Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) employees, by signing onto Rep. Jeff Duncan's (R-SC) recent resolution under the Congressional Review Act (CRA) that will halt President Biden’s harmful mandate for virtually all healthcare employees. Resolutions under the CRA are privileged under Congressional rules to ensure Congress is able to keep the Executive branch accountable. A CRA resolution requires a simple majority threshold to pass the House and Senate.

“Vaccine mandates are unconstitutional. As we head into Christmas, workers need the peace of mind that comes with keeping their jobs and keeping the President out of their personal medical decisions. That’s why I am a proud cosponsor of this bill and proudly defend our health care workers’ right to decide with their doctor whether the COVID-19 vaccine is the right decision for them,” said Carter.

Rep. Carter joins 160 of his colleagues in co-sponsoring this legislation to prevent any further unconstitutional overreach from the Biden Administration.

Background: The Congressional Review Act process is the legal process whereby Congress can overturn an Administration regulation, once it has been properly noticed. “Proper notice” occurs once a regulation is printed in the Federal Register and received by the Clerks of the House and Senate. The CMS vaccine mandate regulation was printed in the Federal Register on November 5, 2021. It was noted as received by the Senate Clerk on December 1, 2021, and by the House Clerk on December 9, 2021. Now that all three of those notices have been received, a CRA receives privilege in the House if the Minority Leader brings it up as a “privileged resolution,” which means the House must bring the legislation to the floor for a vote.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-johnson-votes-strengthen-supply-chain-bolster-capacity-american,"Rep. Johnson Votes to Strengthen Supply Chain, Bolster Capacity for American Exports",2021-12-09,2021,2021-12,Democrat,House,GA,"Henry C. ""Hank"" Johnson, Jr.",J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,hankjohnson,https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C.—This week Rep. Johnson voted to strengthen the overseas supply chain and bolster exports from American businesses with H.R. 4996, the Ocean Shipping Reform Act. This is the latest legislative action that the Democratic House is taking to fix the supply chain struggles that are impacting American consumers and businesses.

""Supply chain snags are hurting Georgia families and businesses: inflicting higher costs, added delays and more shortages,"" said Rep. Johnson. ""That is why I proudly voted for the Ocean Shipping Reform Act, which will help iron out bottlenecks in the shipping industry so that families can buy what they need and businesses can get their goods to market. And in doing so, we take an important step to Build Back Better a supply chain that can unleash American competitiveness for decades to come.""

The COVID-19 pandemic has roiled supply chains around the world, creating bottlenecks that have added costs and delays for small businesses and consumers. In the global shipping industry, all major ocean carriers are foreign-based and have not played fair with American exporters and importers during this crisis. As a result, American families have struggled with higher prices and more shortages, while American businesses have found it difficult to get their goods to market for a fair and reasonable cost.

The Ocean Shipping Reform Act is the latest legislative action House Democrats are taking to address and remediate these supply chain snags. This bipartisan bill, which represents the first major modernization of the global ocean shipping industry since 1998, will:

• Ensure fairness in ocean shipping by prohibiting ocean carriers from unreasonably refusing to transport American cargo;

• Strengthen the overseas supply chain by combating unfair and disruptive business practices by shipping companies; and

• Bolster the Federal Maritime Commission so that it has the resources to hold wealthy shipping companies accountable.

The National Retail Federation yesterday wrote in support of this legislation: ""While the bill cannot solve all current supply chain disruption issues, it will go a long way to address some of the core issues that existed well before the COVID-19 pandemic.""

This vote is the latest action Democrats have taken to address and remediate supply chain problems. In November, the House passed the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which secured $17 billion in new funding for ports and waterways. Democrats also included an additional $5 billion in the House-passed Build Back Better Act to identify and resolve critical supply chain vulnerabilities that imperil our national and economic security.

# # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://austinscott.house.gov/press-releases?ID=91EAB81F-A565-4721-B69F-8C7146832125,Rep. Austin Scott on Final Passage of the FY22 NDAA,2021-12-08,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,GA,Austin Scott,S001189,austinscott.house.gov,austinscott,https://austinscott.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Austin Scott (GA-08), a senior member of the House Armed Services Committee (HASC), released the below statement upon a final negotiated Fiscal Year 2022 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) passing the House of Representatives late yesterday. The NDAA sets Department of Defense (DoD) policies and authorizes funding levels for defense programs.

“While it’s certainly not perfect, the FY22 NDAA provides more of the resources our men and women in uniform need to complete their important missions, modernize our platforms and systems, and protect the homeland. It provides significant resources for Service Chief and Combatant Commander priorities left unfunded by President Biden’s budget and is a 5% increase in national security spending over the previous fiscal year,” said Rep. Scott. “I voted in favor of the bill and was proud to help negotiate this final legislation, including making sure there were no red flag laws that infringe on any American’s Second Amendment rights and stopping a provision to require women from registering for the draft.”

“Rep. Scott has been laser focused on working to ensure that our servicemembers have the funding and tools they need to be prepared for conflict. The NDAA is the most important piece of legislation that Congress produces – it is bipartisan and bicameral and most of all it protects our national security and supports our troops. I thank Rep. Scott for his work on this incredibly important piece of legislation,” said HASC Ranking Member Mike Rogers (AL-03).

The FY22 NDAA provides $768 billion in total defense discretionary spending, $25 billion more than President Biden’s budget request. Highlights include providing a 2.7% pay raise for our troops, fully modernizing our nuclear triad, and focusing on supply chain security and supply chain independence from China, among many other things. It also contains 23 provisions authored by Rep. Scott that were included in the first House-passed version of the legislation. Click here to read more.

Key provisions of the bill include:

Afghanistan – Directs the Secretary of Defense to recover all aircraft provided by the U.S. to Afghan Security Forces that were relocated to other countries and establishes an independent commission to review the entirety of Afghanistan War, including the disastrous withdrawal, and present finding and recommendations to Congress.

Border Security – Continues funding for the deployment of National Guard to the border.

China – Includes over $500 million in INDOPACOM Combatant Commander priorities left unfunded by the Biden budget and authorizes over $7 billion for the Pacific Deterrence Initiative, $2 billion above the President’s request. It also requires the DoD and State Department to assess China's efforts to expand its presence and influence in Latin America and the Caribbean and prohibits DoD purchases of goods from Chinese forced labor camps in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region.

Extremism – The NDAA does not include a provision establishing an Office of Extremism at the Department of Defense. The bill does not create a new Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) article on extremism. It does not require the Department to establish policies to counter extremism or make troops take training courses on extremism.

Nuclear – Prohibits any reduction in the number of intercontinental ballistic missiles or retiring or reconverting our low-yield nuclear warheads and prevents Russian and Chinese officials from accessing U.S. missile defense sites.

Readiness – Focuses investment on new and emerging weapon systems capable of penetrating denied operating environments such as China.

“Red Flag” Laws – Makes no changes to law that would impact the Second Amendment Rights of Americans.

Requirement for Women to Register for the Draft – The NDAA does not include a provision requiring women to register for the Selective Service. The bill makes no changes to the Selective Service System, how a draft would be conducted, or who would be conscripted.

Russia – Includes $300 million in security assistance and intelligence support to Ukraine, including not less than $75 million in lethal assistance. It also fully funds the European Deterrence Initiative and focuses on boosting our allies near Russia’s border.

Shipbuilding – Provides funding for 13 new battle force ships and prohibits the decommissioning of 2 cruisers.

Vaccine Mandates –

Discharges – Prohibits DoD from dishonorably discharging servicemembers that refuse the COVID-19 vaccine. Servicemembers may only receive an honorable discharge or a general discharge under honorable conditions. This policy will retroactively apply to the date of the DoD COVID-19 vaccine order and be in place for at least 2 years.

Exemptions – Requires DoD to establish uniform standards under which servicemembers may be exempted from receiving the COVID-19 vaccine for administrative, medical, or religious reasons. The DoD must consider the effects of natural immunity in setting medical standards, as well as whether the servicemember is approaching retirement when setting the administrative exemption standards.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-applauds-robust-investment-in-armed-forces-highlights-defense-bill-support-for-middle-and-southwest-georgia-bases,"CONGRESSMAN BISHOP APPLAUDS ROBUST INVESTMENT IN ARMED FORCES, HIGHLIGHTS DEFENSE BILL SUPPORT FOR MIDDLE AND SOUTHWEST GEORGIA BASES",2021-12-08,2021,2021-12,Democrat,House,GA,"Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.",B000490,bishop.house.gov,bishop,https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Yesterday, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) voted to adopt S.1605, Fiscal Year 2022 (FY22) National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). This bill authorizes a range of programs related to national defense each year and touches on all aspects of military life — from service members and families to weapons, equipment, and facilities. Congressman Bishop was a strong advocate for provisions to improve the quality of life for military families and helped lead the effort to adopt the bipartisan bill by a vote of 363-70. The bill was sent to the Senate for consideration.

""The annual defense bill has once again shown that when it comes to our national security and the well-being of our military families, we can work across the aisle to find bipartisan solutions to the challenges we face,"" said Congressman Bishop. ""This bill helps us refocus our national defense on our adversaries like Russia and China while upholding our commitment to care for our service members and their families who are the backbone of our armed forces. I encourage the Senate to quickly pass this bill and send it to President Biden for his signature.""

As the country deals with supply chain challenges, the bill would require the Defense Department to identify and reduce risks from foreign interference as well as prioritize domestic production of critical minerals and pharmaceutical ingredients. To meet the challenges posed by China and Russia, the bill authorizes over $7 billion for the Pacific Deterrence Initiative — $2 billion above the President's request — and requires reporting on Russian influence operations and campaigns targeting U.S. military alliances and partnerships.

Closer to home, the bill includes $6 million in military construction funding for Military Housing Privatization Initiative Restructuring at Robins Air Force Base (AFB) in Warner Robins, GA. The bill makes other military construction at Fort Gordon, Fort Stewart, Fort Benning, and Kings Bay Naval Submarine Base in Georgia, including funding for a Cyber Instructional Facility at Fort Gordon and a Special Operations Battalion Headquarters at Fort Benning. The Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany will see further improvements to 5G broadband expansion, infrastructure improvements and modernization initiatives that will support Marine Corps mission readiness.

The FY22 NDAA provides a 2.7 percent pay increase for service members and establishes a $15 minimum wage for covered service and construction contracts. It also makes historic changes to the Uniform Code of Military Justice to combat sexual assault in the military, and establishes the Office of Countering Extremism.

For military families, the bill expands the pilot program providing financial assistance for in-home childcare. It also establishes an Exceptional Family Member Program Advisory Council to better support military families who have members with special needs. It authorizes $50 million to help schools in local communities that serve military family children.

The bill authorizes much-needed communication modernization upgrades to the E–8C Joint Surveillance Target Attack Radar System (JSTARS) aircraft. The JSTARS program is based at Robins AFB and is a joint Air Force and Army program that provides critical airborne surveillance, intelligence, and command and control to U.S. armed forces around the world.

This bill also authorizes $203 million for continued research and development of the Air Force Advanced Battle Management System (ABMS). ABMS will be hosted at Robins AFB and is a next-generation system of systems integrating battlefield surveillance information and providing commanders with better situational awareness in combat. Also included in the defense bill is $125M for Robin AFB's future squadron of E-11A Battlefield Airborne Communications Node (BACN) aircraft.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=8609,"Carter, Trahan celebrate passage of bill protecting children’s health",2021-12-08,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,GA,"Earl L. ""Buddy"" Carter",C001103,buddycarter.house.gov,buddycarter,https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, the lead sponsors of H.R. 5551 U.S. Reps. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) and Lori Trahan (D-MA) celebrated passage of this landmark legislation to protect children suffering from birth defects and other developmental disorders.

The bipartisan Improving Health of Children Act passed the House today on a 405-20 vote. This life-saving action will reaffirm the federal government’s commitment to supporting children’s health and well-being, 1 in 33 of whom suffer from a birth defect.

“I am encouraged by the bipartisan agreement that children suffering from developmental disorders deserve adequate funding and resources,” said Congressman Carter, the bill’s Republican lead. “As this bill heads to the Senate, I will continue fighting to ensure that programs essential to finding cures and supplying treatment for life-threatening disorders are properly supported by the federal government. There is no cause more deserving of Congress’s time and attention than that of protecting young lives.”

“Since its creation two decades ago, the National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities has worked to ensure people living with disabilities are given the dignity, respect, and opportunities they need to succeed. I helped introduce the Improving the Health of Children Act to support that critical work,” said Congresswoman Trahan, the bill’s Democratic lead. “This bipartisan legislation will reauthorize the Center for the first time in fifteen years and provide it with the funding and resources necessary to support more than a dozen essential programs. I’m grateful to my colleagues in the House who supported this important legislation, and I look forward to partnering with our Senate counterparts to ensure it becomes law.”

Specifically, H.R. 5551 would reestablish programs related to birth defects; folic acid; cerebral palsy; intellectual disabilities; child development; newborn screening; autism; fragile X syndrome; fetal alcohol syndrome; tourette syndrome; pediatric genetic disorders; disability prevention; or other relevant diseases.

Read the full text of the bill here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://clyde.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=63,Rep. Clyde Applauds Passage of FY22 NDAA,2021-12-08,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,GA,Andrew S. Clyde,C001116,clyde.house.gov,clyde,https://clyde.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Today, Congressman Andrew Clyde (GA-09) released the following statement after the House passed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year (FY) 2022 last night by a vote of 363-70:

“As a 28-year Navy veteran who served three combat tours in Kuwait and Iraq, I strongly believe funding, equipping, and supporting our military is paramount to the security of our great nation. With threats increasing from adversaries across the globe, this year’s NDAA bolsters our capabilities to properly counter threats posed by China, Russia, Iran, and radical terrorist organizations.

“No matter the mission, our brave men and women in uniform answer the call to protect our national interests and preserve our precious freedoms. We owe it to our troops to deliver the support and resources they need, which is why I am pleased that this NDAA provides a well-deserved 2.7% pay increase to our servicemembers and makes historic investments in future warfighter technologies.

“I sincerely commend my Republican colleagues on the House and Senate Armed Service Committees for successfully working with Democrats to remove the poison pills that, as a staunch conservative, I could never support, including the proposed office of Countering Extremism, the proposed ‘Red Flag’ laws, and the requirement for women to register for Selective Service. Now that those partisan provisions have been eliminated, I am proud to support the final passage of this year’s NDAA, which strengthens our nation’s readiness to ensure that we have the most lethal military force in the world.”

Background:

Specifically, the conferenced FY22 NDAA:

Boosts topline defense spending by $25 billion to reverse President Biden’s woefully underfunded budget

Provides a 2.7% pay raise for and expanded benefits for military families

Ensures historic investments in emerging technology, like AI, quantum computing, and hypersonic weapons

Secures funding to defend our allies from Russian aggression, including $300 million for the Ukraine Security Alliance Initiative and $4 billion for the European Deterrence Initiative fund

Invests $7.1 billion for the Pacific Deterrence Initiative in preparing our military to prevail in conflict with China

Establishes that it is the policy of U.S. to maintain the ability to resist Chinese efforts to seize control of Taiwan

Prohibits a dishonorable discharge for servicemembers who refuse a COVID-19 vaccination and requires uniform procedures for vaccine exemptions

Removed language requiring women to register for Selective Service at 18 years of age

Eliminated language establishing an Office of Countering Extremism that would have created an ideological litmus test for servicemembers in violation of their First Amendment rights

Removed dangerous “Red Flag” language that could strip servicemembers’ and veterans’ Second Amendment rights.

Additional provisions may be found in the bill text HERE.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/reps-johnson-raskin-reintroduce-bill-hold-federal-law-enforcement,"Reps. Johnson, Raskin Reintroduce Bill to Hold Federal Law Enforcement Officers Accountable",2021-12-08,2021,2021-12,Democrat,House,GA,"Henry C. ""Hank"" Johnson, Jr.",J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,hankjohnson,https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressmen Hank Johnson (GA) and Jamie Raskin (MD) re-introduced The Bivens Bill, legislation that allows citizens to recover damages for constitutional violations committed against them by federal law enforcement officials, including U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's (ICE), Transportation Security Administration (TSA), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Department of Justice (DOJ) and federal prison officials.

They first introduced the Bivens Bill in 2020. Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse introduced a companion in the Senate. The Senate bill is cosponsored by Sens. Alex Padilla (CA), Ed Markey (MA), and Ron Wyden (OR).

After the Civil War, Congress enacted 42 U.S.C. § 1983 to ensure that state and local officials could not violate individuals' federal constitutional rights with impunity. Section 1983 is designed to allow individuals to sue state and local officials to recover damages for constitutional violations. It is the primary tool victims of police brutality use to seek redress for constitutional injuries at the state and local level. But there is no comparable federal statute providing an express cause of action for victims of constitutional violations.

Instead, victims of constitutional or statutory violations by federal officials have been left to implied causes of action. Since the 1970s, the U.S. Supreme Court's Bivens doctrine has recognized limited circumstances in which the Constitution itself authorizes a self-executing remedy for damages. But the Court has significantly curtailed the availability of Bivens claims in recent years. In February 2020, the Court in Hernandez v. Mesa went so far as to note that ""it is doubtful"" today's Court would have recognized Bivens claims at all.

""Victims of constitutional violations by federal officers too often have no legal recourse,"" said Rep. Johnson. ""From ICE officers who conduct illegal searches and seizures and Bureau of Land Management officials who intimidate property owners into providing easements to the peaceful protestors who were violently dispersed from Lafayette Square with teargas and rubber bullets last summer so Trump could get his Bible photo op – they are all too often immunized from damages for their constitutional wrongs"" said Johnson. ""This bill fixes the issue by increasing judicial accountability for unlawful federal government action.""

""The Bivens Act will finally codify the people's right to seek damages from the federal government when their constitutional rights have been violated,"" said Congressman Raskin. ""Just last year, we watched then-Attorney General Barr unleash a ragtag paramilitary squad of federal law enforcement officers to deploy tear gas, pepper spray and rubber bullets against peaceful protestors in Lafayette Square. Many of those injured that day, including several of my constituents, may find themselves without an effective legal remedy. This bill will right that wrong by allowing affected citizens to recover damages and hold federal law enforcement officials accountable for misconduct. I am proud to introduce this legislation with my friend and colleague Congressman Hank Johnson.""

""We ought to have one set of clear, fair standards of accountability for law enforcement officers that applies across all levels of government—federal, state, and local,"" said Senator Whitehouse. ""In practice, a confusing smorgasbord of judicial precedent prevents victims from holding federal law enforcement accountable for constitutional violations. The Bivens Act fixes this problem.""

Cosponsors: Carson (IN), Lee (CA), Jackson Lee (TX), Jones (NY), Lieu (CA), Norton (DC), Ocasio-Cortez (NY), Scanlon (PA), Schakowsky (IL) Tlaib (MI).

Supporting Groups: American Civil Liberties Union, Amnesty International USA, Asylum Seeker Advocacy Project (ASAP), Autistic Self Advocacy Network, Blacks in Law Enforcement of America, Border Network for Human Rights, Center for Disability Rights, Center for Victims of Torture, Central American Resource Center of Northern CA – CARACEN SF, Church of Scientology National Affairs Office, Constitutional Accountability Center, Defending Rights & Dissent, Drug Policy Alliance, Fair and Just Prosecution, Government Information Watch, Incarcerated Nation Network, Innocence Project, Institute for Justice, Just Futures Law, Justice in Motion, Kids in Need of Defense (KIND), Lawyers for Good Government (L4GG), Legal Aid Justice Center, Massachusetts Jobs with Justice, NAACP Legal Defense and Education Fund, Inc., National Crittenton, National Immigration Project (NIPNLG), National Network for Immigrant and Refugee Rights, National Network to End Domestic Violence, Open Society Policy Center, Project On Government Oversight, Protect Democracy, Rebuilding Independence My Style, Restore the Fourth, The Black Police Experience, The Daniel Initiative, Vday.

To read the bill, click HERE. To read the coalition letter, click HERE.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://allen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4911,Rep. Allen Supports National Defense Authorization Act,2021-12-07,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,GA,Rick W. Allen,A000372,allen.house.gov,allen,https://allen.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Congressman Rick W. Allen (GA-12) released the following statement after voting for final passage of the Fiscal Year 2022 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), the annual bill that authorizes defense spending and sets priorities for America’s military:

“Congress has an important duty to ensure America’s military is equipped with the necessary resources to defend our nation while providing support to our service members and their families. This year’s national defense bill delivers on these goals, bolstering defense spending and including a pay raise for our troops, while holding the Biden Administration accountable for its disastrous and incompetent withdrawal from Afghanistan.

“We must also continue to prepare for the future of warfare and combat threats posed by our strategic adversaries, like Russia and China. I’m proud of the work being done in Georgia’s 12th District to do just that, and this bill secures vital funding for U.S. Army Cyber Command at Fort Gordon and the important missions at the Savannah River Site.

“While Democrats initially injected several controversial provisions such as ‘Red Flag’ laws and a requirement for women to register for the draft, I was glad to see they were ultimately rejected from the final bill. It is important that we never politicize our nation’s military, and in a time of so much divisiveness, I’m pleased to see Congress come together to support the men and women who courageously serve in uniform -- especially on the 80th anniversary of the attack at Pearl Harbor.”

The Fiscal Year 2022 NDAA Conference Report:

Reverses President Biden’s reckless cuts to our national security by boosting the defense topline by nearly $25 billion, ensuring growth of 5% from FY21.

Authorizes a 2.7% pay increase for service members and extends military recruitment and retention bonuses and special pay authorities.

Preserves service members’ free speech rights by protecting them from being punished for political statements on social media accounts.

Prohibits a dishonorable discharge for service members who refuse a COVID-19 vaccination and requires uniform procedures for vaccine exemptions.

Focuses investment in new and emerging weapon systems capable of penetrating denied operating environments such as China.

Authorizes $250 million to conduct counter-terrorism operations in Afghanistan and prohibits the Department of Defense (DoD) from providing any financial support to the Taliban.

Requires the DoD to immediately submit a plan to Congress on how it will support the evacuation of American citizens from Afghanistan, maintain air superiority, conduct intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions, and carry out counter-terrorism operations.

Requires a series of immediate reports to Congress on the following:

Number of Americans left behind in Afghanistan

Personally, identifying information and biometrics of Americans now in the hands of the Taliban

Itemized lists of aircraft, combat vehicles, and other U.S. military equipment left behind

Threats posed by Al Qaeda and other terrorists operating in Afghanistan

Strategic impacts of abandoning Bagram Air Base

Taliban relationship with foreign terrorist organizations

Security impacts on the Taliban release of terrorist prisoners

Financial assets and other resources available to the Taliban

Strengthens Homeland Security by directing additional National Guard resources to the border and requiring an assessment of the impact on military readiness of DoD transporting illegal immigrants.

Prohibits the transfer of terrorists housed at Guantanamo Bay to any country that is a state sponsor of terrorism.

Prohibits the use of DoD funds to conduct research, including biomedical, infectious disease, and genomic research in China or with any entity controlled by the Chinese Communist Party.

Requires DoD and Director of National Intelligence (DNI) to assess the involvement of the Chinese Communist Party in the origins of COVID-19.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=8608,Democrats steamroll health care access to fund Build Back Broke,2021-12-07,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,GA,"Earl L. ""Buddy"" Carter",C001103,buddycarter.house.gov,buddycarter,https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) voted no on legislation that would pave the way to funding Washington Democrats’ build back broke agenda by increasing the national debt limit.

Washington Democrats unnecessarily tied a vote on previously bipartisan health care relief to raising the debt limit, jeopardizing patients’ access to affordable health care during a pandemic.

“Pelosi and Schumer showed their true colors today. To fund their socialist tax and spending spree, which places a several trillion-dollar debt on future generations, they risked stripping away key protections for patients, particularly in rural communities, who already struggle accessing vital care,” said Carter.

Pelosi rammed the bill through the House Floor on a nearly party-line 222-212 vote.

“By needlessly tying together these two unrelated bills, Schumer and Pelosi are sending a clear message to Americans: their right to pass socialist spending scams is equal to your right to access your doctor.

“I am appalled that Congress has failed to maintain the bipartisan history of Medicare relief,” said Carter.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-mourns-the-loss-of-former-senator-bob-dole,CONGRESSMAN BISHOP MOURNS THE LOSS OF FORMER SENATOR BOB DOLE,2021-12-06,2021,2021-12,Democrat,House,GA,"Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.",B000490,bishop.house.gov,bishop,https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) issued the following statement regarding the passing of former U.S. Senator Bob Dole:

""Bob Dole embodied the Greatest Generation. He was a decorated Soldier who put his life on the line for his brothers in uniform, suffered the scars of war, and nonetheless overcame that adversity to serve the American people in Congress.

""I had the good fortune and honor to work with Senator Dole on the Eisenhower Commission and continue — to this day — to support the Dole-McGovern Food for Education Program in my role as chair of the appropriations subcommittee that funds the program.

""Though tested in the fire of combat, he was warmhearted to those around him, regardless of party affiliation. And, while we will miss Bob dearly, his humility, selflessness, and resilience should be guideposts for us all.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=8599,Carter: “Democrat dysfunction is threatening our democracy”,2021-12-02,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,GA,"Earl L. ""Buddy"" Carter",C001103,buddycarter.house.gov,buddycarter,https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"U.S. Representative Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) today voted against a last-ditch effort by congressional Democrats to enact federal spending legislation in a timely manner without provisions to safeguard American’s constitutional rights.

“Lame duck Speaker Nancy Pelosi said it herself – when Congress fails to reach a deal, it is a failure of the party in charge. Washington Democrats are once again floundering right in front of our eyes,” said Carter. “Washington Democrats control all the levers of the federal government and are solely to blame if they cannot avert a shutdown. Democrat dysfunction is threatening our democracy by derailing efforts to accomplish one of the most basic responsibilities of governing.”

The House today passed a largely partisan spending bill by a vote of 221-212. House Democrats also blocked a vote on a Parents Bill of Rights, once again demonstrating a lack of concern for the American people and real legislation.

The spending bill is expected to fail in the Senate where Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) is blocking efforts to protect that American people from President Joe Biden’s unconstitutional vaccine mandate. Without agreement, the government will shut down on at midnight.

Carter called on Speaker Pelosi and Leader Schumer to take the threat of shutdown off the table by ending their blockade.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://clyde.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=30,Rep. Clyde Rejects Democrats Irresponsible Continuing Resolution,2021-12-02,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,GA,Andrew S. Clyde,C001116,clyde.house.gov,clyde,https://clyde.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Today, Congressman Andrew Clyde (GA-09) released the following statement after voting against H.R. 6119, a Continuing Resolution (CR) that would extend government funding through February 18, 2022. The CR ultimately passed the House this evening by a vote of 221-212.

“Ignoring fiscal responsibility, for months Democrats have foolishly prioritized advancing their radical agenda instead of effectively addressing government funding. Due to their inability to govern, House Democrats scrambled to cobble together this stop-gap funding bill that simply puts Congress back in the same problematic situation in two months' time – serving as yet another distraction from the Biden Administration’s myriad of crises. Additionally, this sham bill fails to defund President Biden’s wholly unacceptable and unconstitutional vaccine mandates, which have been responsible for massive job losses across the nation. I resolutely reject this partisan continuing resolution, and I urge House and Senate Democrats to put Americans first, get back to work, and pass FY2022 federal funding rather than kick the can down the road again with another stop-gap measure.”

On Wednesday, Rep. Clyde joined his House Freedom Caucus colleagues in sending a letter to Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell urging him and Senate Republicans to stand strong against the CR unless it blocks funding for President Biden’s vaccine mandates. Read the letter HERE.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=FDCBD880-63F5-4109-A8BA-0632CF57B300,"McBath, Merkley, Brown Introduce Legislation To Reduce Class Sizes in Schools",2021-12-02,2021,2021-12,Democrat,House,GA,Lucy McBath,M001208,mcbath.house.gov,mcbath,https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC — Rep. Lucy McBath (D-GA-06), U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley (D-OR), and Rep. Shontel Brown (D-OH-11) aim to address overcrowded classrooms by introducing the Smaller Class Sizes for Students and Educators Act in both the House and Senate, bold legislation that invests in smaller class sizes in public schools.

Students achieve better academic results when they have more individualized attention from instructors, especially in kindergarten through third grade, but class sizes have only continued to grow. That problem was only exacerbated during the COVID-19 global pandemic: School districts across the country transitioned to virtual learning, limiting in-person instruction and causing additional burden for hardworking teachers. As students return to the classroom, the lawmakers are making a bicameral push for better student outcomes with legislation that would reduce class sizes and allow students more one-on-one time with teachers—improving the overall school experience for both students and teachers.

“The role that teachers and educators play is critical in our children’s lives, and we must support our teachers so that students can receive an education that will set them up for future success. That includes more one-on-one time with their teachers, more tailored instruction opportunities, and more investment in developing the meaningful connection to instill a deep love of learning,” said Rep. McBath. “I thank Senator Merkley and Congresswoman Brown for their work and support on this important piece of legislation. It is efforts like these that will help us provide a brighter future for every American child.”

“I attended Oregon public schools as a child, and I remember having around 20 children in my first grade class. When I dropped my son off for his first day of school, his class had 34 children, and I wondered how his teacher could organize and teach such a large group,” said Senator Merkley. “Today, after a year and a half in which our students have been mostly in virtual school rooms, students have faced more challenges than ever, and too often they are unable to access the attention they need to excel in the classroom and recover from the learning losses of COVID-19. As the wealthiest nation on earth, we must ensure our children are able to succeed in academics, and that can’t happen in overstuffed classrooms. We can afford to do better, and it’s time to invest in the high-quality public education every American student deserves.”

“Every child in America deserves the best education we can provide, yet chronic underinvestment in public schools has led to swelling class sizes in school districts in Ohio and across the country,” said Rep. Brown. “We know that smaller class sizes help our students succeed. As we emerge from the pandemic, we must ensure teachers have the support they need to do their jobs effectively and students receive the individualized attention they deserve. I am proud to join Congresswoman McBath and Senator Merkley in introducing this legislation that invests in reducing class sizes, especially in the low-income districts most in need.”

The Smaller Class Sizes for Students and Educators Act would:

• Establish a $2 billion competitive grant program for school districts to reduce class sizes in K-3 grades to not more than 18 students per class.

• Enable school districts to apply for grant funding to reduce class sizes, which the Secretary of Education will award based on the schools with the greatest need

• Ensure that grant funding is used to recruit, hire, and train qualified teachers in K-3 grades.

• Enable school districts that have achieved class size recommendations in K-3 grades to obtain additional space or renovate existing school buildings in order to provide more classroom space and for the professional development of teachers in K-3 grades.

• Prioritize schools that serve the highest percentage of students from families with incomes below the poverty line, and then schools with the highest average class sizes in K-3 grades.

This bill is supported by the American Federation of Teachers, First Focus Campaign for Children, and the National Education Association.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://allen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4906,Rep. Rick Allen Announces Community Office Hours for December,2021-12-01,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,GA,Rick W. Allen,A000372,allen.house.gov,allen,https://allen.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON - U.S. Congressman Rick W. Allen (GA-12) announced today that his staff will be holding Community Office Hours across the 12th district during the month of December.

These office hours offer the opportunity for constituents to receive personal assistance from Congressman Allen’s office in their local communities. There will be no formal presentation nor will Congressman Allen be in attendance. These office hours offer one-on-one visits between staff and Georgia-12 constituents. Staff will be available to assist with a number of federal issues, including problems with federal agencies, such as Social Security, Veterans Affairs, Medicare, and others.

“Constituent service remains one of my top priorities as I serve Georgia’s 12th district,"" said Congressman Allen. ""My staff and I are ready to help address issues Georgians may be experiencing with a federal agency, and I am pleased to offer this direct assistance closer to home.”

Congressman Allen has permanent offices located in Richmond, Toombs, Laurens, and Bulloch counties; therefore, community office hours will not be held in these counties. Please see below for a list of Community Office Hours dates, times and locations by county:

Treutlen County

WHEN: Monday, December 6th from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.

WHERE: Treutlen County Commissioners Office

1830 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive

Soperton, GA 30457

Montgomery County

WHEN: Monday, December 6th from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

WHERE: Montgomery County Courthouse

400 S. Railroad Avenue

Mount Vernon, GA 30445

Wheeler County

WHEN: Monday, December 6th from 1:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

WHERE: Alamo City Hall

105 Commerce St

Alamo, GA 30411

Appling County

WHEN: Wednesday, December 8th from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

WHERE: Appling Courthouse Annex, Commissioners Meeting Room

69 Tippins Street

Baxley, GA 31513

Tattnall County

WHEN: Wednesday, December 8th from 12:30 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.

WHERE: Glennville Welcome Center

136 South Veterans Boulevard

Glennville, GA 30427

Evans County

WHEN: Wednesday, December 8th from 2:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

WHERE: Claxton City Hall

206 West Railroad Avenue

Claxton, GA 30417

Burke County

WHEN: Thursday, December 9th from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

WHERE: County Commission Boardroom, Burke County Courthouse

111 East 6th Street

Waynesboro, GA 30830

Columbia County

WHEN: Thursday, December 9th from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

WHERE: City of Grovetown

103 Old Wrightsboro Road

Grovetown, GA 30813

Effingham County

WHEN: Thursday, December 9th from 12:30 to 2:00 p.m.

WHERE: Effingham County Board of Commissioners Administrative Complex

601 North Laurel Street; Enter through door on North Pine Street

Springfield, GA 31329

Screven County

WHEN: Thursday, December 9th from 2:45 to 4:15 p.m.

WHERE: Screven County Courthouse, Commission Boardroom

216 Mims Road

Sylvania, GA 30467

Jenkins County

WHEN: Friday, December 10th from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

WHERE: Millen City Hall

919 College Avenue

Millen, GA 30442

Emanuel County

WHEN: Friday, December 10th from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.

WHERE: Swainsboro-Emanuel County Chamber of Commerce

102 S. Main St.

Swainsboro, GA 30401

Candler County

WHEN: Friday, December 10th from 3:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

WHERE: Metter City Hall

49 South Rountree St.

Metter, GA 30439

Coffee County

WHEN: Wednesday, December 15th from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

WHERE: Douglas/Coffee County Chamber of Commerce

114 North Peterson Avenue

Douglas, GA 31533

Jeff Davis County

WHEN: Wednesday, December 15th from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

WHERE: The Big House

25 East Coffee Street

Hazlehurst, Georgia 31539",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=8597,"Carter, Gonzalez Reintroduce Bipartisan Drug Price Transparency in Medicaid Act",2021-12-01,2021,2021-12,Republican,House,GA,"Earl L. ""Buddy"" Carter",C001103,buddycarter.house.gov,buddycarter,https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Today, Reps. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) and Vicente Gonzalez (D-TX) introduced bipartisan legislation that would limit the power of pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) to artificially spike Medicaid drug prices.

The Drug Price Transparency in Medicaid Act bans the use of spread pricing by middlemen (PBMs) in Medicaid managed care. PBMs drive up prescription drug costs without adding any value to the consumer.

“Prescription drug prices are way too high. As a Pharmacist, I’ve seen the pain in patient’s eyes as they make the impossible choice between paying for food and paying for medication. With this bill, we can radically decrease drug prices and put power back into the hands of the patients, without expensive or heavy-handed government programs. I want to thank Congressman Gonzalez for his support and commitment to protecting the lives, health, and pocketbooks of patients across America,” said Carter.

“Americans deserve transparency and accountability in their drug pricing, and the Transparency in Medicaid Act will do just that,” said Gonzalez. “This legislation will offer solutions to policies that have been negatively affecting healthcare and prescription drug costs for far too long. I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan bill with Congressman Carter to protect South Texas patients and community pharmacies.”

Spread pricing occurs when a PBM charges health plans for prescription drugs more than they pay the pharmacy. Instead of passing the full payment on to pharmacies, PBMs keep the “spread” as profit.

The bill was originally introduced in the 116th Congress with bipartisan support.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-johnson-new-report-says-build-back-better-will-save-georgia,"Rep. Johnson: New Report Says Build Back Better Will Save Georgia Families Thousands of Dollars in Lower Costs, Cut Taxes",2021-12-01,2021,2021-12,Democrat,House,GA,"Henry C. ""Hank"" Johnson, Jr.",J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,hankjohnson,https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Hank Johnson (GA-04) highlighted a new report showing that Democrats' Build Back Better Act would meaningfully lower costs and cut taxes for Georgia families, saving them thousands of dollars each year. According to the report, just four cost-cutting provisions of this landmark legislation alone will save the median Georgia family with two parents and two children at least $3,750 each year and save the median single-parent family with two children at least $16,450.

""Build Back Better, which I proudly voted for last month, will be transformative for nearly every family: lowering costs, cutting taxes and fighting harmful inflation,"" said Rep. Johnson. ""With more cash in hand and more breathing room in their budget, Georgians will have the financial security they need to get back to work, care for their loved ones and reach their full potential.""

Inspired by President Biden's vision, the House-passed Build Back Better Act will lower the burdensome costs that families face every day, from childcare to health care to family care and more, while also delivering the largest middle-class tax cut in a generation. This new report, assembled by Third Way, shows how the Biden Child Tax Credit, child care cost caps, capping Affordable Care Act's insurance premium costs, and expanding the ACA to close the Medicaid coverage gap will put more money in the pockets of Georgia families.

A family with two working parents and two young children earning half of the state's median income would see $11,300 in new cost savings per year.

A family with two working parents and two young children earning the state's median income would see $3,750 in new cost savings per year.

A family with two working parents and two young children earning 150 percent of the state's median income would see $3,000 in new cost savings per year.

A single-parent family with two young children earning half of the state's median income would see $17,550 in new cost savings per year.

A single-parent family with two young children earning the state's median income would see $16,450 in new cost savings per year.

A single-parent family with two young children earning 150 percent of the state's median income would see $11,450 in new cost savings per year.

According to Third Way, the ""historic and groundbreaking middle-class tax cuts and cost protections for families"" in the Build Back Better Act ""will have an outsized effect on working and middle-income families with children.""

Researchers also said that these savings do not include additional benefits that families can expect to receive under Build Back Better: ""Not included in this calculation are the benefits families could receive such as universal Pre-K if they had a 3- or 4-year-old child, new housing subsidies, or SNAP benefits, among many others. Also not included in our analysis is that workers with no children may also benefit from a higher Earned Income Tax Credit.""

""During the pandemic – but even long before – Georgia families have been held back by the soaring everyday costs they face,"" Rep. Johnson continued. ""This report is the latest proof that Democrats' Build Back Better will be life-changing: meeting Georgians' urgent needs and building a foundation on which they can succeed.""

The Democratic House passed the Build Back Better Act on November 19th.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=EC8ABB54-5190-4BC4-9059-63499223C198,"""Do you have the courage to do what is right?"" McBath Delivers Remarks Urging Action on Gun Violence",2021-12-01,2021,2021-12,Democrat,House,GA,Lucy McBath,M001208,mcbath.house.gov,mcbath,https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC — Following the tragic shooting in Michigan yesterday, Rep. Lucy McBath (GA-06) delivered powerful remarks on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives and urged action from both chambers on the continued threat of gun violence to our children and to our nation.

Her remarks are available for download here and a transcript is below:

“Enough is enough. Enough gun violence in our schools. Enough children hiding in fear. Enough parents trembling in terror as they search for any news of their own kids.

There were 100 calls made to 9-1-1 in Oxford yesterday. Hundreds of children stuck in their classrooms, crying out for help. Hundreds of kids scared to death that this would be their last day of school.

We have our young people learning how best to survive a shooter in between math and science class. 6-year olds asked to figure out for themselves whether they have a better chance to survive if they hide in a closet, or if they should rush the gunmen.

And then, on days like yesterday. Days that repeat with the same frequency as this body’s failure to respond, we hear the stories of teenagers texting their parents from behind a desk saying things like ‘Mom, if I don’t make it, I love you, and I appreciate everything you’ve done for me.’

Parents begging their children to ‘barricade yourselves behind doors, to hide in classrooms, and to please, hold your tears, you cannot make a sound.’

This chamber has heard much about God since men first stood within these hallowed halls.

This chamber has heard much about the God given rights our Creator inalienably endowed.

So I ask, then, what rights has God given our children?

Do they enjoy the God given right to exist in their schools without fear of death or gun violence?

Do American parents have the God given right to drop their child off at school and expect to see them home that night?

Parents from Columbine to Sandy Hook to Parkland have had to bury their babies. And the children who survived have had to live with the trauma that only stepping over a friend painted in blood could ever bring.

Do we, as a nation, have the God given right to live free from this epidemic of violence, of senseless loss, of unimaginable pain?

I ask all of you here today, to put yourselves in the shoes of those parents. Put yourselves in the shoes of the mother’s and father’s who have gasped for air when desperation would not let them breathe. Put yourself in the shoes of all those who have sunk to their knees when the agony would not let them stand.

Do you have the courage to do that? To feel what it might like to bury your own child? To suffer with your God day after day to make sense of the senseless?...Do you have the courage?

Do you have the courage to do what is right? To save our children and protect our families.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:37:48Z
https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-johnson-surpasses-70-million-mark-constituent-services,Rep. Johnson surpasses $70 million mark in constituent services,2021-11-30,2021,2021-11,Democrat,House,GA,"Henry C. ""Hank"" Johnson, Jr.",J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,hankjohnson,https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"LITHONIA, GA – Since taking office in 2007, Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) has worked to help secure more than $70 million for constituents seeking help with federal agencies from his offices in Georgia's 4th Congressional District, which encompasses parts of DeKalb, Gwinnett and Newton counties and all of Rockdale County.

""Helping constituents solve seemingly intractable problems is what my district office does every day. I'm proud that my staff has been able to help so many constituents receive the money and benefits due them from the federal government. Taking care of home first is my number one priority.""

Johnson, whose Washington, D.C. and district offices have a strong reputation throughout Georgia and the nation for strong constituent services, said he will continue to put constituents first.

In 2018, Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) celebrated and recognized his staff – both in Washington, D.C. and the District – for being named finalist for the first-ever Democracy Awards, the Congressional Management Foundation's new award recognizing non-legislative achievement and performance in congressional offices.

Throughout the COVID-19 panemic in 2020-2021, the Congressman's offices remained open -- continuing to help constituents with cases with federal agencies.

The following are some success stories:

Veterans Affairs: A U.S. military veteran from Snellville, Ga., received $100,000 back pay and a $3,300 monthly benefit following an inquiry and update request from Rep. Johnson's office. The veteran is a Vietnam Agent Orange victim who suffers from PTSD and severe heart condition. Along with this monetary benefit, the veteran will also be receiving additional care at the VAMC.

A U.S. military veteran received $30,000 back pay and an $810 monthly benefit following an inquiry and update request from Rep. Johnson's office. The veteran suffers from PTSD and depression, and the office also followed up to ensure he was getting the proper care needed from his doctors.

Social Security: A constituent was denied twice for disability benefits and requested assistance from Rep. Johnson's office because his medical condition was dire. The office worked with the constituent to ensure that the Social Security Administration had the medical evidence needed for a favorable decision by the Office of Disability Adjudication and Review (ODAR). Within three months of the inquiry, the man's claim was granted, earning him $31,000 in back pay and monthly benefits.

Internal Revenue Service: Recently, Congressman Johnson cleared up an IRS issue for a constituent. She left the following message on Rep. Johnson's Facebook page: ""Congressman, I just wanted to thank you and especially (your constituent services representative) Shy Armstrong! Two weeks after submitting my problem with the IRS, the problem was SOLVED!!!! I owe a debt of gratitude to my congressman. Often we hear all the negatives and low approval ratings of the U.S. House of Representatives. Well, MY congressman truly worked on my behalf, and a 3 month problem was solved within 2 weeks! Thank you so much, Congressman Johnson. You're a man who is FOR the people!!""

Housing: Since 2009, Johnson's office has helped nearly 1,700 residents deal with pending foreclosures of their homes. Since 2011, more than 800 homeowners in the Fourth District have been approved for HomeSafe Georgia – which helps homeowners who are unemployed or underemployed through no fault of their own with up to 18 months of mortgage payments – resulting in nearly $27 million in relief, more than any other district in Georgia. Rep. Johnson's office has worked with the Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA) to get the word out about HomeSafe at two events – and helped get DCA's Fourth District outreach off the ground.

Example of helping save a home: A constituent contacted the office seeking help with postponement of a foreclosure. Her lender wouldn't reconsider and told her that foreclosure would proceed. She had been previously denied because she had no income but by the time she asked Rep. Johnson's office for help, she was working. Rep. Johnson's office sent an inquiry to her mortgage company asking for reconsideration since she was now working, and requesting postponement of foreclosure to give the lender time to verify her employment. On the day before the scheduled foreclosure, she was notified that foreclosure would be postponed and that she would be approved for a loan modification (she also later learned that she was approved for the HomeSafe Georgia program.)

Online Office: Rep. Johnson's staff stands ready to assist residents of Georgia 4th Congressional District with their federal agency problems. For a full list of services, visit Johnson's constituent service section of his Web site: /.

Johnson's website is a one-stop shop for news updates, e-newsletters, speeches, legislation, constituent services, videos, photos and place where constituents can e-mail their representative directly. Rep. Johnson's office has addressed more than 200,000 constituent e-mails and letters since 2007.

► Town Halls: Since taking office in 2007, Johnson has held hundreds of meetings and participated in a host of community events to hear directly from constituents. In August 2009, Johnson held a town hall on health care reform that was a model for the nation. More than 3,000 people attended. In 2009-10, Johnson held three jobs fairs in the span of 13 months that served more than 2,000 constituents, with some receiving job offers on the spot. In August 2011, Johnson co-hosted a jobs fair with Congressman John Lewis. More than 5,000 people attended. Johnson has held five ""telephone town halls"" with more than 100,000 residents since 2009.

In 2013-14, Rep. Johnson's office closed nearly 2,000 constituents cases. In 2015, Congressman Johnson held four town halls in a row in every county he represents: DeKalb, Rockdale, Gwinnett and Newton counties. In 2015, Rep. Johnson held town halls in every county he represents. In 2019, the Congressman reached more than 220,000 constituents by holding in-person town halls in every county he represents, four telephone town halls and three Twitter town halls. He also held a ground-breaking event in 2020 called The Restoration Resources Fair to help the previously incarcerated get back on their feet and intergrate into society.

Despite the difficult circumstances presented by the pandemic, the Congressman held dozens of virtual events including telephone and Zoom town halls to keep his constituents informed about resources available to them from the federal government -- relief checks, rent assistance, small business grants and Child Tax Credits -- to help them weather the global pandemic.

► Pandemic Resources: Congressman Johnson held five COVID-19 related telephone town halls and webinars in 2020-21 and has a comprehensive Fourth District COVID Resources page.

► Senior Meet & Greets: From 2007-2020, Rep. Johnson has held a dozen senior citizens meet & greets throughout the Fourth District at senior centers in DeKalb, Rockdale, Gwinnett and Newton counties.

► Academy Nominations: Each year Congressman Johnson has the privilege of nominating a limited number of students to four of the five service academies. The honor of attending a service academy comes with an obligation and commitment to serve in the military for a minimum of five years upon graduation. Since 2007, Rep. Johnson has nominated more than 180 Fourth District students to attend the military academies with 102 receiving appointments: /serving-you/military-academy-nominations. These appointments are worth more than $37 million collectively.

► Arts Competition: Each spring, a nationwide high school arts competition is sponsored by the members of the U.S. House of Representatives. The Artistic Discovery Contest is open to all high school students in the 4th District. The over-all winner of our district's competition will be displayed for one year in the U.S. Capitol. /serving-you/art-competition. To date, these scholarships have been worth more than $500,000.

► AppChallenge: Officially launched by the U.S. House of Representatives in 2015, this nationwide effort allows students to compete against their peers by creating and an application or ""app,"" for mobile, tablet, or computer devices. The Challenge is designed to promote innovation and engagement in coding and computer science. For more, click HERE.

► E-Newsletter: Congressman Johnson sends regular updates to more than 17,600 constituents from his office for subscribers of his e-newsletter: /media-center/e-newsletters.

► Social Media: Congressman Johnson can also be reached through Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube.

► Offices: For face-to-face meetings and help with federal agencies, Congressman Johnson and his staff are available in Georgia and in Washington, D.C., Rayburn Building 2240. Rep. Johnson's main district office is located at 5240 Snapfinger Park Drive Suite 140 in Lithonia 30035. In Georgia, call 770-987-2291 and in Washington, call 202-225-1605. Please call ahead or for an appointment or request a meeting online at /contact-me/request-appearance.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=549FBE16-0730-407B-9692-07F75B75A340,"Rep. Lucy McBath Statement on School Shooting in Oxford, Michigan",2021-11-30,2021,2021-11,Democrat,House,GA,Lucy McBath,M001208,mcbath.house.gov,mcbath,https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC — “Enough is enough. Enough gun violence in our schools. Enough children hiding in fear. Enough parents with pits in their stomach when they can’t reach their kids. There were 100 calls made to 9-1-1 today. Hundreds of children stuck in their classrooms, crying out for help.

“Our young people texting their parents from behind a desk saying things like ‘Mom, if I don’t make it, I love you, and I appreciate everything you’ve done for me.’ Parents begging their children to ‘barricade yourselves behind doors, to hide in classrooms, and to please, hold your tears, you cannot make a sound.’

“I hear from families across America who do not have the confidence that we, Congress, will do what is needed to keep them safe. They ask me, ‘what are we waiting for?’ ‘What are we doing to protect our children?’

“We need to stand up to save American lives. We must have the courage—right now—to do what is right for the American people. It is time for us to act—it is long past time.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=A5DD4FAA-E0C5-4177-965B-2CFC40C815DB,Rep. Lucy McBath Honors Vietnam War Veterans During 50th Commemoration Pinning Ceremony,2021-11-29,2021,2021-11,Democrat,House,GA,Lucy McBath,M001208,mcbath.house.gov,mcbath,https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Marietta, GA — This afternoon, Rep. Lucy McBath (GA-06) honored 17 veterans of the Vietnam War and one family of a deceased Vietnam veteran from Georgia’s Sixth Congressional District in a 50th Commemoration Pinning Ceremony. Those recognized during the ceremony served in the United States Army, Navy, and Air Force. This was the fifth 50th Commemoration Pinning Ceremony McBath has held for veterans of the Vietnam War since taking office in 2019.

“I was so grateful for another chance to honor so many of our Vietnam veterans today in this long overdue public recognition of thanks and gratitude,” McBath said. “Our country cannot stop at just gratitude, however. We must continue the hard work to make sure that promises made to veterans are fulfilled, and that the benefits our veterans earned are received.”

Participating veterans were honored with a commemorative lapel pin and a certificate of special recognition. In order to safely convene a virtual gathering, McBath’s office mailed pins and certificates to all participating veterans ahead of Monday’s ceremony. Lieutenant Colonel Cary King, retired United States Army, participated as a guest speaker.

Established in 2008, the United States of America Vietnam War Commemoration honors veterans of the Vietnam War for their heroic service and pays tribute to their selfless contributions.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=8585,Carter on Guilty Verdicts in Ahmaud Arbery Trial,2021-11-24,2021,2021-11,Republican,House,GA,"Earl L. ""Buddy"" Carter",C001103,buddycarter.house.gov,buddycarter,https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Today, a jury in Georgia found Gregory McMichael, Travis McMichael, and William ""Roddie"" Bryan Jr. guilty of the murder of Ahmaud Arbery.

Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA), who represents the district in which the trial was held, commented on the verdict, stating:

“The right to a trial by a jury of your peers is fundamental to a free and fair society. Today, justice was served. I thank the jury, judge, and legal counsel for their commitment to our orderly system of justice. I pray for the family of Ahmaud Arbery and hope that this verdict brings some much needed comfort ahead of the holiday season,” said Carter.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=8584,Carter introduces Build Better Borders Act,2021-11-22,2021,2021-11,Republican,House,GA,"Earl L. ""Buddy"" Carter",C001103,buddycarter.house.gov,buddycarter,https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Today, Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) announced the introduction of the Build Better Borders Act of 2021, a bill that will secure our southern border and ensure no illegal immigrant is given taxpayer dollars for breaking the law.

“Drugs and crime are pouring across our southern border. Since Biden took office, illegal border crossings have increased over 200% and there is now enough fentanyl in the United States to kill every American adult three times over. As a pharmacist, I know an effective prescription when I see one, and building the wall is the only remedy to a crisis of this magnitude. We cannot treat illegal immigrants better than we do families of fallen soldiers. It’s time to reestablish the rule of law and force Joe Biden to protect our safety, taxpayer dollars, and constitution,” said Rep. Buddy Carter.

The Build Better Borders Act, the real BBB, will increase civil monetary penalties for illegally crossing the border to $450,000. It also stipulates that any funds collected from these fines will be directed to border wall construction along the United States’ southern border.

Reps. Rick Allen (R-GA), Andy Biggs (R-AZ), Glenn Grothman (R-WI), and Jody Hice (R-GA) cosponsored this legislation.

“The Biden Administration has not requested any funding for the border wall, in fact they have actively stopped construction! Now they allegedly want to pay illegal immigrants as much as $450,000. These policies have sent the wrong message that our border is wide open and there are no consequences for illegally entering our country. Our commonsense legislation will increase fines for those who break the law and then put those funds toward securing our border,” said Rep. Rick Allen.

“Illegal immigration is a serious crime and deserves a serious penalty. Instead of giving $450,000 payouts to aliens who entered our country illegally, the Biden Administration should prosecute illegal aliens for breaking our laws. Enough is enough. America deserves sovereignty and security, not an Administration that incentivizes illegal immigration,” said Rep. Andy Biggs.

“While our country is facing an unprecedented border crisis, the Biden Administration wants to reward illegal aliens for breaking our immigration laws by writing them checks, courtesy of law-abiding American taxpayers. This is unfathomable. We hope this legislation will move quickly to counteract President Biden’s latest attempt to get as many illegal immigrants in the country as possible,” said Rep. Glenn Grothman.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://allen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4903,Rep. Allen Statement on Biden's Build Back Broke Act,2021-11-19,2021,2021-11,Republican,House,GA,Rick W. Allen,A000372,allen.house.gov,allen,https://allen.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"U.S. Congressman Rick W. Allen (GA-12) today released the following statement on House Democrats’ passage of Biden’s “Build Back Better” Act:

“The so-called ‘Build Back Better Act’ will destroy our economy as we know it. If you think rising prices at the gas pump and empty shelves in the grocery store are bad now, you better hope the Senate stops this bill in its tracks. It is the most socialist piece of legislation and the biggest expansion of government in our lifetime, and enacting it will only make our nation’s many ongoing crises worse.

“This process has been a slap in the face to every American taxpayer. This 2,000+ page bill will raise taxes, radically expand the IRS's access to Americans’ bank accounts, and rampantly spend taxpayer dollars -- and it was crafted behind closed doors with no bipartisan input.

“I urge my Senate colleagues to stand strong and oppose this trillion dollar tax and spend spree that will bankrupt our nation and burden our future generations with insurmountable debt.”

Background:

The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) estimates that the bill will add $367 billion to the deficit over the next decade. The “Build Back Better” Act:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://austinscott.house.gov/press-releases?ID=521A5481-6AE2-46DA-A05F-4F363F6FDAB2,Rep. Austin Scott Votes Against Biden’s Social Spending Spree,2021-11-19,2021,2021-11,Republican,House,GA,Austin Scott,S001189,austinscott.house.gov,austinscott,https://austinscott.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Representative Austin Scott (GA-08) issued the below statement upon the House of Representatives passing the Build Back Better Act (H.R. 5376). Rep. Scott voted against the massive tax and spending bill which he contends would exacerbate rising inflation and raise taxes on Americans. The bill is expected to face substantial roadblocks in the U.S. Senate.

“The so-called ‘Build Back Better Act' is nothing more than a tax and spending spree to fund liberal policies. At a time when many American families are feeling a financial pinch, this bill would dramatically exacerbate inflation, raise taxes on families and small businesses, and expand the size and power of the federal government,” said Rep. Scott. “We are just days away from a potential government shutdown and debt limit default, and all Democrats care about is passing another piece of their socialist agenda. It’s baffling and disgraceful just how out-of-touch President Biden and Congressional Democrats are with issues impacting American families.

If passed by the Senate in its current form, the legislation would:

Provide the IRS nearly $80 billion for tax enforcement purposes. It is estimated this will allow the IRS to more than double in size and hire 87,000 new agents.

Grant amnesty for millions of illegal immigrants while the border crisis continues to surge.

Perpetuate labor shortages by eliminating work requirements to receive welfare benefits for able-bodied adults – at a time when there are over 10.4 million job openings.

Create a Civilian Climate Corps that would employ thousands of young people to work on climate change mitigation projects

Impede and ban domestic energy and mineral production, increasing our dependencies on resources supplied by OPEC, Russia, and China.

Raise taxes on natural gas, increasing the costs of nearly everything.

Implement socialist price control schemes for prescription drugs that will negatively impact seniors, patients, those with rare diseases, and their families.

Create over 150 new government programs.

Give families making more than $500,000 a year up to $12,500 to buy an electric vehicle.

Implement nearly $1.5 trillion in tax hikes, hitting American businesses big and small who compete both here and around the world hardest as they try to rebound after the pandemic.

Force the 90% of Americans who don’t join a union to subsidize the few who do.

Apply arbitrary price controls on drugs making it difficult for generics to successfully come to market.

Provide $2.5B for “Community-based Violence Intervention Initiatives,” which could be used to deny Americans their 2nd Amendment rights without due process.

Additionally, the bill excludes Hyde Amendment protections which have ensured that Americans are not forced to pay for abortion on demand with their tax dollars for more than forty years.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-secures-historic-investment-in-american-families-and-communities,CONGRESSMAN BISHOP SECURES HISTORIC INVESTMENT IN AMERICAN FAMILIES AND COMMUNITIES,2021-11-19,2021,2021-11,Democrat,House,GA,"Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.",B000490,bishop.house.gov,bishop,https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) made a commitment to a historic investment in American families by helping secure passage of H.R. 5376, the Build Back Better Act. The bill addresses housing, healthcare, and education and provides investments in our national security, veterans, and our rural communities. The bill was designed to help working families meet the challenges they face every day — by creating more affordable child care, Pre-K, and housing as well as providing clean water and lowering prescription drug prices. The bill was adopted by 220-213 vote and now heads to the U.S. Senate for consideration.

The bill authorizes $1.7 trillion in programs over a 10-year period. According to the lead rating agencies, including Moody's Analytics and Fitch Ratings, this bill will not add to current inflationary pressures and is expected to add to America's labor supply.

""Earlier this week, our monumental commitment to repair and modernize our physical infrastructure became law. Today it is matched by our historic investment in America's families,"" said Congressman Bishop. ""The Build Back Better Act addresses the challenges that families face today — from soaring prescription drug costs to needing child care as more and more families have all parents working to put food on the table. This bill bolsters programs that train and bring more physicians and nurses to our rural communities so families can get the care they need closer to home.""

""The Build Back Better Act supports crucial national security and scientific research programs to maintain our dominance on the world stage in the face of challenges from Russia and China. It also honors the debt we owe to our veterans by committing more resources to fix and improve our aging Veterans Administration hospitals,"" the Congressman added.

The bill is paid for by having big multinational corporations and the wealthiest pay their fair share as well as closing tax loopholes they can exploit. The bill was designed so that no one making under $400,000 will pay more in taxes and provides tax breaks for middle-class Americans.

Like the American Rescue Plan — which Congress passed in March of this year and has already provided Georgia with billions of dollars to help residents recover from COVID-19 — many of the programs authorized by the Build Back Better Act will provide funds to Georgia's state departments and agencies in order so that it can better meet families' needs. Local governments, nonprofit organizations, business owners, and families can directly apply to the federal government for other programs included in the bill.

The Build Back Better Act helps America's families by improving:

Healthcare — by closing the Medicaid coverage gap to help millions of people across the country get healthcare insurance, including 269,000 Georgians; directing Medicare to cover the costs of hearing aids for our seniors; and reducing the cost of prescription drugs, like insulin, by letting Medicare negotiate better prices. Nearly 1.8 million Georgians are enrolled in Medicare. As part of the bill, insulin costs would be capped at $35 a month helping reduce costs for the 1 in 10 adults in Georgia who have diabetes. For the first time ever, this bill will cap out-of-pocket spending of prescription drugs at $2,000 per year for seniors that use Medicare Part D. The CBO estimates that the prescription drug prices provisions will save the federal government $297 billion over 10 years.

Childcare and Education — by providing roughly $390 billion to lower the cost of child care and provide universal Pre-K for three- and four-year old children and ensuring that a majority of Americans will not pay more than 7% of their income on child care. In Georgia, that can help over 190,000 children access free, high-quality Pre-K education and provide child care to more than 665,000 children. Also, $10 billion is allocated for child nutrition programs that will provide school meals to 9 million students.

Higher Education — by increasing the maximum Pell Grant award by $550 per student, which will help more than 195,000 students in Georgia who rely on Pell grants; and providing $1 billion for Minority-Serving Institutions, including Historically Black Colleges and Universities, Tribal Colleges and Universities, and Hispanic-Serving institutions of which there are 38 in Georgia.

Housing — by providing $25 billion to construct, purchase, and rehabilitate homes for low-income families as well as $500 million, each, to develop supportive housing for the elderly and those with disabilities. Also, it injects $3.05 billion into Community Development Block Grant funding for affordable housing and community infrastructure upgrades as well as $100 million for rural rental assistance. These and other housing programs in the bill can help the more than 650,000 renters in Georgia who spend more than 30% of their income on rent as well as help make home ownership more achievable.

Water Quality & Energy Grid — by providing $2.125 billion for sewer and wastewater projects as well as to improve home water systems. Also, it commits $16 billion to rural communities to modernize their energy and water systems — including lead pipe removal and remedies.

Access to Capital for Small Business and Rural Entrepreneurs — by providing almost $2 billion for a Small Business Administration direct loan program for the smallest businesses as well as $275.9 million for the Community Advantage Loan program, which particularly supports small businesses in underserved markets. Also, the bill creates a $1 billion Rural Partnership Program for flexible grant funding for job growth and economic resilience in communities impacted by climate change as well as provides $10 million for Rural Small Business Conferences.

Veterans Facilities and Services — by providing $2.3 billion to help the Veterans Administration (VA) update its clinics and medical facilities. There are over 35 VA facilities in Georgia, including over a half dozen facilities in Middle and Southwest Georgia that can be helped by these funds. Also, $268 million to train physicians and healthcare professionals to serve in VA facilities and $150 million to speed up scanning of backlogged veteran records.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=8577,Build Back Broke threatens Americans' livelihoods,2021-11-19,2021,2021-11,Republican,House,GA,"Earl L. ""Buddy"" Carter",C001103,buddycarter.house.gov,buddycarter,https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – House Democrats today rammed through President Biden’s radical socialist spending spree, capping off a year of historic government waste. U.S. Representative Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) proudly voted no on the so-called Build Back Better agenda.

“This bill provides one of the largest SALT tax breaks ever, proving once and for all that the Biden agenda benefits the billionaires, not the bartenders. Today, I voted for the bartenders. For the single mothers who can no longer afford to put food on the table. For the taxicab drivers who can no longer afford gas. For the small business owners struggling to make ends meet, the lives of the unborn, and, most importantly, for residents of Georgia’s First Congressional District. The federal government has no business spending $3.5 trillion dollars that it doesn’t have to implement invasive, inefficient programs that nobody wants. The Bible says ‘by their works ye shall know them.’ After today’s vote, we know that Democrats are the party of millionaires, illegal immigrants, left-wing extremists, and bureaucrats,” said Carter.

The bill passed despite a disappointing Congressional Budget Office score, which found that Biden, Pelosi, and Schumer lied about the true cost of their spending spree.

“The Democrats’ radical wish-list is not fully paid for. Instead, generations of middle-class Americans will pay for Biden’s agenda with higher taxes and higher prices at gas pumps and grocery stores. Our supply chain is crumbling. Businesses can’t find workers. Drugs are pouring across our southern border. And the Commander-in-Chief is swiping America’s credit cards and putting his legacy ahead of his electorate.” said Carter.

The Senate will now determine the fate of a package that, among other terrible proposals:

Authorizes $4.5 trillion in new spending;

Hikes middle-class taxes by 30 percent;

Fuels highest spike in consumer prices in 40 years;

Builds 150 new government programs;

Wastes $550 billion on Green New Deal proposals;

Gives SALT tax breaks to millionaires and billionaires;

Fails to protect the lives of the unborn; and,

Grants amnesty to illegal immigrants.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://clyde.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=29,Rep. Clyde Denounces Democrats Big Government Socialist Spending Bill,2021-11-19,2021,2021-11,Republican,House,GA,Andrew S. Clyde,C001116,clyde.house.gov,clyde,https://clyde.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"– Today, Congressman Andrew Clyde (GA-09) released the following statement after voting against H.R. 5376, the “Build Back Better Act,” which passed the House this morning by a vote of 220-213:

“For months on end, Democrats have recklessly steamrolled ahead - determined to pass the most progressive and expensive piece of legislation in our history. Ripe with radical policies, the Biden Bernie Bankruptcy Act will fundamentally alter the course of our great nation by codifying the Far-Left’s dangerous policies, such as components of the Green New Deal, taxpayer-funded abortion, and the weaponization of the IRS.

“Allergic to logic, Speaker Pelosi rammed this pricey package through at a time when inflation is skyrocketing to its highest point in over three decades. As Americans struggle to afford groceries, gas, and heating bills, Democrats are eagerly exacerbating the ongoing inflation crisis by injecting another $4 trillion into the economy. Further kicking millions of hardworking Americans while they’re down, this imprudent legislation imposes tax hikes on the middle-class - while simultaneously handing hefty tax breaks to the ultra-rich. The Democrats’ severely warped priorities reveal the lengths they will go to enact their liberal wish list.

“American families, workers, and small businesses are desperate for solutions to remedy the multitude of crises facing our nation, yet this sham spending bill does nothing to offer a helping hand. Instead, President Biden’s so-called ‘Build Back Better Act’ only stands to increase bureaucratic red tape, enrich our adversaries, and further cripple Americans’ pocketbooks. I cannot support this fiscally irresponsible and morally bankrupt piece of legislation that moves our nation one giant step toward Big Government Socialism, which is why I resolutely voted ‘NO’ on H.R. 5376.”

Rep. Clyde Lambastes the Democrats' Biden Bernie Bankruptcy Act During House Floor Debate",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-johnson-votes-pass-historic-build-back-better-act-lower-everyday,"Rep. Johnson Votes to Pass Historic Build Back Better Act, Lower Everyday Costs for Georgia Families",2021-11-19,2021,2021-11,Democrat,House,GA,"Henry C. ""Hank"" Johnson, Jr.",J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,hankjohnson,https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) voted for the Build Back Better Act, which delivers once-in-a-generation action to bring down the everyday costs that burden Georgia families. This landmark legislation creates good paying jobs, cuts middle class taxes and lowers the costs of health care, childcare and family care. Importantly, this legislation is fully paid-for by asking the wealthiest few and biggest corporations pay their fair share, and so the Build Back Better Act will both grow the economy and fight inflation.

Rep. Johnson also announced that his and U.S. Senator Jon Ossoff's Public Transportation Expansion Act passed in the bill, which for the first time will fund construction of public transportation specifically connecting affordable housing with transit networks in order to serve riders and commuters in low-income communities. The Build Back Better Act included $10 billion for this innovative new program.

""When we understand that mobility is essential to freedom – to control your own destiny – we understand that investing in transit in places that have historically been underserved is an investment in people,"" said Rep. Johnson. ""I'm pleased the Public Transportation Expansion Act passed within the Build Back Better Act so we can invest in a new, one-of-a-kind program that will connect affordable housing with transit options so people can access health care, education and employment opportunities.""

""The Build Back Better Act meets the needs of Georgia families, now and for generations to come,"" continued Rep. Johnson. ""From prescription drugs to childcare to family care, our bill lowers the kitchen table costs that are holding back working parents – while also delivering a major middle class tax cut and historic action on the climate crisis. Today, I proudly voted for this landmark legislation, which will make a lasting difference for Georgia families.""

The Build Back Better Act:

• Lowers Health Care Costs:

o Empowers Medicare to negotiate lower drug costs for seniors and halts Big Pharma's outrageous price hikes above inflation for all Americans.

o Ensures Americans with diabetes don't pay more than $35 per month for their insulin.

o Creates a new, out-of-pocket cap of $2,000 on what seniors pay for their drugs in Medicare Part D.

o Lowers premiums dramatically for those who buy insurance on their own through the Affordable Care Act.

o Extends affordable coverage through the Affordable Care Act to millions of Americans in states that have refused to expand Medicaid.

o Expands Medicare to make hearing care more affordable for seniors.

• Lowers Child Care & Family Care Costs:

o Saves most families more than half their current spending on childcare, ensuring the vast majority of families will have to pay no more than 7 percent of their income for childcare.

o Expands the basic promise of free schooling in America for the first time in 100 years with universal pre-school for all 3- and 4-year-olds.

o Establishes a universal and permanent paid family and medical leave program, providing four weeks of paid parental, family caregiving, and medical leave.

o Gives more than 35 million families a major tax cut by extending the Biden Child Tax Credit.

o Expands access to high-quality home care for older adults and people with disabilities.

o Cuts the cost of postsecondary education, with such steps as increasing the maximum Pell Grant.

o Reduces families' housing costs and expands housing options.

• Makes the most consequential investment to combat the climate crisis in U.S. history:

o Invests $555 billion over 10 years in historic clean energy and climate investments.

o Creates green tax credits that will save the average American family hundreds of dollars per year in energy costs.

o Ensures clean energy technology will be built in the United States, creating hundreds of thousands of good jobs here at home.

As 17 Nobel Prize-winning economists recently wrote in support of this legislation: ""Because this agenda invests in long-term economic capacity and will enhance the ability of more Americans to participate productively in the economy, it will ease longer-term inflationary pressures."" In fact, according to the estimates of the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office and the U.S. Treasury, the Build Back Better Act even reduces the deficit by more than $100 billion over the first ten years.

""Because it is fully paid for, our Build Back Better Act will also help fight inflation as our economy recovers, empowering more parents to return to the workforce and lowering the everyday expenses that weigh heaviest on working families,"" Rep. Johnson concluded.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=A07D16C5-F228-4BD6-A172-9F214A9F8ABD,McBath Votes to Pass Historic Build Back Better Package,2021-11-19,2021,2021-11,Democrat,House,GA,Lucy McBath,M001208,mcbath.house.gov,mcbath,https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — This morning, Rep. Lucy McBath (GA-06) and the House of Representatives voted to pass H.R. 5376, the Build Back Better Act. This historic agreement will create millions of good-paying jobs, get Americans back to work, enable more Americans to join and remain in the labor force, spur long-term economic growth, reduce price pressures, and set the United States on course to meet its clean energy ambitions.

“Our nation has weathered unbelievable challenges in the past two years, navigating a global pandemic which upended our economy,” McBath said. “The Build Back Better Act will set us on a course to create millions of jobs, get Americans back to work, lower health care costs, and provide tax cuts to hard-working families. This historic investment will help put America on the path back to normal, and I am proud to support this package to help meet the needs of our communities.”

The Build Back Better package will be transformative for nearly every family in Georgia, deliver historic investments to meet their needs in the wake of the pandemic, and ensure that all can share in the benefits of a growing economy now and for generations to come by addressing:

Prescription Drugs: The cost of medicine is too high for many American families, and this legislation lowers the cost of prescription drugs for families, capping insulin at $35 a month, and ensuring that no senior will pay more than $2,000 a year in out-of-pocket drug costs.

Child Care: The average annual cost for child care in Georgia is $7,500. The Build Back Better Act will expand access for 665,172 young Georgians and ensure that no family pays more than seven percent of their income on child care.

Early Education: Only 29% percent of the 271,000 three-year-olds and four-year-olds in Georgia have access to publicly funded pre-kindergarten, while the average cost of private pre-kindergarten in the state is $8,600. The Build Back Better Act will expand access to free, high-quality pre-kindergarten to 193,000 young Georgians – setting children up for lifelong success and saving their parents thousands of dollars.

Health Care: By closing the Medicaid gap, expanding Medicare to include hearing care, and extending relief for insurance purchased through the ACA, the Build Back Better Act will help 548,000 Georgia families gain coverage and 262,000 Georgia families save hundreds on health costs each year – while also making home health care for elderly parents or loved ones with disabilities more affordable and accessible.

9/11 Health: This bill also provides billions in funding to support health programs for 9/11 survivors and their families

Pandemic Preparedness: Invests billions in pandemic preparedness to help improve public health systems and prevent future health crises.

Community Violence: Funds violence intervention initiatives to reduce violence in our communities and keep our families safe.

Lower Taxes: Before the Child Tax Credit was expanded in the American Rescue Plan, fifteen percent of Georgia children lived in poverty. The Build Back Better Act extends this life-changing tax cut for middle-class families and furthers historic progress toward reducing child poverty.

Small Businesses: Provides billions for small businesses to spur the economy, support entrepreneurs, and drive innovation.

Climate Disasters: Georgia has experienced 46 extreme weather events over the last decade, which has cost the state more than $20 billion. By reducing carbon pollution, bolstering community resilience and strengthening the American clean energy economy, the Build Back Better Act will create good-paying union jobs, advance environmental justice and save Georgia families the steep costs of recovery.

Workforce Development: Create paid job training opportunities, helping get Americans get back to work, providing employers with the talent they need to grow, and giving young people the opportunity to chase the careers that are right for them.

The Build Back Better Act also makes generational investments in higher education, workforce training, affordable housing, and nutrition assistance.

The full fact sheet for Georgia is available here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://allen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4902,PHOTOS: Rep. Allen Challenges Biden's Workplace Vaccine Mandate,2021-11-18,2021,2021-11,Republican,House,GA,Rick W. Allen,A000372,allen.house.gov,allen,https://allen.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Thank you Representative Keller for leading this effort and for having me here today to help serve as a voice for the over 80 million American workers who will be impacted by Biden’s unprecedented – and likely unconstitutional – vaccine mandate on private workplaces.

We’re here today to fight for the employees and employers who have been eager to return to work after months of forced lockdowns and pandemic-related closures.

And for the families whose wallets are feeling the impacts of rising prices and surging inflation as they work to put a meal on their kitchen table.

But because of Biden’s workplace vaccine mandate – they are weighing a decision that no one should ever have to make: lose your job or fall in line with what the government tells you.

And what happens if businesses don’t comply?

Employers will get slapped with fines as much $14,000 per violation.

The Biden Administration should be ashamed – every American has the right to earn a living!

This isn’t about public safety – we’ve seen goalposts continue to move over the past 20 months – it’s about more government control.

As litigation over this rule continues in the courts, I’m glad to see that OSHA has temporarily suspended its implementation and planned enforcement.

But we must also fight this legislatively.

That’s why I’m proud to join all 50 Republican Senators and over 160 House members in using our authority under the Congressional Review Act to block this rule from taking effect.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://clyde.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=32,Rep. Clyde Presses President Biden on Hypocritical COVID-19 Standards,2021-11-18,2021,2021-11,Republican,House,GA,Andrew S. Clyde,C001116,clyde.house.gov,clyde,https://clyde.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"– Today, U.S. Representatives Andrew Clyde (GA-09) and Clay Higgins (LA-03) led 50 of their House Republican colleagues in a letter to President Biden outlining the Administration’s hypocritical COVID-19 standards and demanding a plan on how the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will test every migrant at the southern border.

“Since taking office, President Biden has remained idle while his self-inflicted border crisis spirals out of control amidst the coronavirus pandemic,” said Clyde. “Over 1.6 million illegal migrants have been apprehended crossing the border, yet contrary to the rules for legal international travelers, none are required to be tested for COVID-19 or show proof of vaccination. This blatant double standard flies in the face of logic and threatens Americans’ health. It’s time for the President to put Americans first by implementing a robust strategy to test every solitary migrant at the southern border - anything less is unacceptable!”

“Individuals entering the country illegally should not be coddled,"" said Higgins. American citizens and legal visa holders absolutely have a right to be treated better than illegal aliens. The Biden administration consistently puts Americans last. It’s insane that we have a President of the United States who lays down for criminal cartels and supports drug and human trafficking while persecuting and oppressing American citizens.”

Read the full letter HERE.

Cosigners: Reps. Rick Allen, Jodey Arrington, Brian Babin, Troy Balderson, Larry Bucshon, Ted Budd, Michael Burgess, Ken Calvert, John Carter, Rick Crawford, Dan Crenshaw, Rodney Davis, Jefferson Van Drew, Andrew Garbarino, Bob Gibbs, Carlos Gimenez, Garret Graves, Morgan Griffith, Glenn Grothman, Michael Guest, Brett Guthrie, Jody Hice, Richard Hudson, Ronny Jackson, Chris Jacobs, David Joyce, John Katko, Debbie Lesko, Nancy Mace, Tracey Mann, Peter Meijer, Mariannette Miller-Meeks, Barry Moore, Markwayne Mullin, Ralph Norman, Steven Palazzo, August Pfluger, Bill Posey, Guy Reschenthaler, John Rutherford, David Schweikert, Austin Scott, Pete Stauber, Elise Stefanik, Fred Upton, Jackie Walorski, Randy Weber, Roger Williams, Steve Womack, and Don Young.

Background:

On October 25, 2021, the Biden Administration announced new testing and vaccination requirements for travelers entering the United States. Currently, no such requirements exist for migrants traveling to the southern border. Back in September, DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas testified before the House Homeland Security Committee that DHS was working to implement a testing strategy, but Congress has not yet received such a plan.

In March, Rep. Clyde introduced H.R. 2076, the “COVID-19 Border Protection (CBP) Act,” which would require the Department of Homeland Security and Health and Human Services to administer a COVID-19 test to anyone who attempts to illegally cross the border.

Full text of H.R. 2076 can be found HERE.

Additionally, Rep. Clyde penned a related op-ed, “Stop the Spread at the Southern Border,” in the Washington Examiner. Read it HERE.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://allen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4898,Rep. Allen Fights to Block Biden's Workplace Vaccine Mandate,2021-11-17,2021,2021-11,Republican,House,GA,Rick W. Allen,A000372,allen.house.gov,allen,https://allen.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Today, Congressman Rick Allen (GA-12) joined all 50 Republican Senators and more than 160 House members in introducing a Congressional Review Act (CRA) resolution to nullify President Biden’s vaccine mandate for private workplaces.

“Top-down government mandates do not work – the decision to get a vaccine should be a personal choice between an individual and their doctor,” said Rep. Allen. “The Biden Administration is abusing their power by implementing this unprecedented and likely unconstitutional mandate on private workplaces. This rule will cripple job creators while worsening our nation’s current labor shortage, supply chain crisis and rising prices for everyday goods and services. I’m proud to stand for the rights of employers and employees by using our authority under the Congressional Review Act to seek to block this federal overreach.”

Background:

The Biden Administration recently released details on the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) Emergency Temporary Standard (ETS) mandating vaccination requirements or weekly testing for employees at private businesses with more than 100 employees. The rule will affect more than 80 million Americans and impose nearly $14,000 fines for individuals who do not comply. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit recently issued a stay against the mandate and multiple lawsuits are ongoing.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/representatives-bishop-and-cardenas-call-on-hhs-secretary-to-preserve-nonemergency-medical-transportation-for-communities-in-need,REPRESENTATIVES BISHOP AND CÁRDENAS CALL ON HHS SECRETARY TO PRESERVE NONEMERGENCY MEDICAL TRANSPORTATION FOR COMMUNITIES IN NEED,2021-11-16,2021,2021-11,Democrat,House,GA,"Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.",B000490,bishop.house.gov,bishop,https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Representatives Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (D-GA) and Tony Cárdenas (D-CA), along with five Members from the U.S. House of Representatives Appropriations, Energy & Commerce, and Transportation & Infrastructure Committees sent a letter to U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) Xavier Becerra urging him to postpone the expansion of a program that will undermine low-income individuals' access to transportation for nonemergency medical treatment.

The Centers for Medicaid and Medicare Services (CMS) are implementing an initiative to restrict the access of Medicare beneficiaries to ambulance rides to transport them to and from dialysis centers and wound care clinics in nine states. The initiative is called Repetitive Scheduled Non-Emergent Ambulance Transport (RSNAT) and is scheduled to go into effect on December 1.

Currently, Medicare does cover nonemergency medical transportation by ambulance but only if the beneficiary is too frail or ill to travel by other means. Medicaid, on the other hand, also covers non-emergency medical transportation by other means such as taxi, rideshare, or public transportation.

If RSNAT is implemented and ambulance services are restricted, many Medicare patients in need of dialysis and wound care treatment would be left without alternative transportation, especially in rural areas. The impact would fall especially hard on African Americans and Latinos whose communities have disproportionately high rates of diabetes and kidney disease.

Almost 60 advocacy organizations have petitioned HHS to delay this policy until they supplement it with nonemergency medical transportation options for the beneficiaries who lose their rides.

The text of the Members' letter follows:

Dear Mr. Secretary:

We are writing to seek your assistance to help avoid possible unintended consequences that could occur when the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation's (CMMI) Repetitive Scheduled Non-Emergent Ambulance Transport (RSNAT) model is expanded nationwide on December 1st, 2021 – just a few weeks away. The RSNAT model is an important program integrity initiative that saves the Medicare Trust Fund money by using prior authorization to deny ambulance services to beneficiaries that do not meet Medicare's qualifying criteria. Without modifications, however, it has the potential to leave vulnerable Medicare beneficiaries without access to lower cost nonemergency medical transportation (NEMT) to dialysis and wound care services.

Since 2015, there has been a demonstration of the RSNAT model in nine states along the East Coast. Currently, half of Medicare ambulance rides are nonemergency to dialysis or wound care services ostensibly because patients are too ill or too frail to travel by means other than NEMT. The patients also are using ambulances because there is no lower cost and more clinically appropriate Medicare NEMT benefit available. While we agree that ambulances are an expensive and inappropriate mode of transport to dialysis and wound care for almost all Medicare patients, it also is the case that RSNAT has highlighted the need for another transportation option for these vulnerable Medicare beneficiaries.

At least half of the Medicare beneficiaries who lose ambulance service are low-income, disabled or elderly. They face many barriers related to these social determinants of health. In CMMI's own RSNAT evaluation, beneficiaries reported having to often choose between medical transportation and rent or food.

To date, RSNAT has resulted in a shifting of transport service to Medicaid NEMT for full dual eligibles. In fact, data from the demonstration states show increased spending for Medicaid stretcher and wheelchair van transports immediately following the implementation of RSNAT. Medicaid NEMT, however, is only available to full dual eligible beneficiaries; it is not available to partial dual eligible beneficiaries. While NEMT can fill in gaps for full dual eligibles as RSNAT is implemented, other highly vulnerable beneficiaries are still in need of transportation. These include the partial dual eligibles who make up almost 20% of the target population and who have incomes either below 135% of the federal poverty level or less than $24,000 annually for a two-person household.

In order to address the potential access issues this demonstration could create, we believe CMMI should consider a low-cost NEMT benefit that can be added to the RSNAT model prior to its national implementation to fill ""gaps"" when beneficiaries lack other means of transportation. Under CMMI authority, CMS could test whether this additional service could improve or maintain quality and produce savings for Medicare by improving access to important, lower-cost transportation services. Most NEMT rides cost less than $40, a fraction of the cost of the ambulance trips they would replace. Several studies document that NEMT is a net cost-saver to Medicaid for certain beneficiaries, especially those with ESRD.

In addition, since NEMT is now a statutorily required Medicaid benefit, the infrastructure already exists to deliver it in every state. Almost all state Medicaid NEMT programs have prior authorization processes in place to ensure that NEMT is only provided to individuals who lack transportation to medically necessary services. Approximately 5% of Medicaid beneficiaries require NEMT, and dialysis facilities are among the most common destinations. The majority of Medicaid programs hire benefits managers or brokers to ensure that NEMT is provided in the most cost-efficient manner. As a result, Medicaid NEMT is well-suited as a comprehensive benefit for the population left with no transportation to vital health services by RSNAT.

We greatly appreciate your attention to our concerns. We strongly urge that HHS address the potential gaps the RSNAT model could create prior to any national expansion,

Sincerely,

Sanford D. Bishop, Jr

Tony Cárdenas

G.K. Butterfield

Steve Cohen

Salud Carbajal

Barbara Lee

Donald Payne, Jr.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=DD15AE20-E2D3-40C9-BEB6-29422D6A66E8,"McBath, Keller Introduce Bill to Reform Federal Prison Camera Usage",2021-11-16,2021,2021-11,Democrat,House,GA,Lucy McBath,M001208,mcbath.house.gov,mcbath,https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Rep. Lucy McBath (GA-06) and Rep. Fred Keller (PA-12) introduced the Prison Camera Reform Act, which would address critical deficiencies in the surveillance and communication equipment used in federal prisons.

This legislation follows the findings of a report from the Department of Justice (DOJ) outlining the extent to which outdated and inadequate equipment (including security cameras, radios, and public address devices) jeopardize the safety of the nation’s correctional officers and inmates and make it more difficult for investigators to substantiate incidents of misconduct.

The Prison Camera Reform Actwould direct the Bureau of Prisons (BOP) to evaluate the condition of its security and communications equipment and implement a plan to address any deficiencies discovered during the evaluation. The BOP would then have three years to fully implement these improvements.

“We cannot allow broken security systems in our prisons to put our corrections officers, public safety, or civil rights at risk,” said McBath. “We have seen, time and again, issues with inmates in camera blind spots, lost footage of incidents, or equipment failures that led to violence or civil rights abuses. We must do more to ensure safety and security, defend civil rights, and demand accountability in our prison systems.”

“The outstanding men and women who work in our nation’s correctional facilities deal with dangerous situations every single day; they deserve access to the resources necessary to keep themselves and the inmates whom they protect safe,” said Keller. “Thank you to Congresswoman McBath for her leadership on this issue as we work to overhaul the BOP’s outdated equipment and equip corrections officers with the proper tools needed to perform their jobs effectively.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://austinscott.house.gov/press-releases?ID=0D66856B-5F72-4723-A210-0D0264EE004E,Rep. Austin Scott Leads Bipartisan Push to Lower India’s Tariffs on U.S. Pecans,2021-11-12,2021,2021-11,Republican,House,GA,Austin Scott,S001189,austinscott.house.gov,austinscott,https://austinscott.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Representative Austin Scott (R-GA-08), a senior member of the House Agriculture Committee, along with 23 colleagues, sent a bipartisan letter to the U.S. Trade Representative, Katherine Tai, encouraging the Administration to prioritize reducing India’s tariffs on American pecans. India currently has a 36% tariff on American pecans, far higher than the 10% tariff on other American tree nuts, like pistachios and almonds.

“As you may know, American pecan producers have faced many challenges due to rising imports from Mexico, Chinese tariffs, natural disasters like Hurricane Michael, and the COVID-19 pandemic. Gaining access to new markets for pecans will help ease the pain while orchards are replanted and as we push China for full implementation of its obligations under the U.S - China Economic and Trade Agreement,” wrote the Members. “Lowering the tariff on pecans would provide the Indian people with more economical access to tree nut varieties, while providing a much-needed economic boost to rural America.”

Co-signers of the letter include: Sanford Bishop (D-GA-02), David Scott (D-GA-13), Rick Crawford (R-AR-01), Dan Crenshaw (R-TX-02), Michael Cloud (R-TX-27), Yvette Herrell (R-NM-02), Al Lawson (D-FL-05), Buddy Carter (R-GA-01), Drew Ferguson (R-GA-03), Paul Gosar (R-AZ-04), William Timmons (R-SC-04), Markwayne Mullin (R-OK-02), Debbie Lesko (R-AZ-08), Tony Gonzales (R-TX-23), Doug LaMalfa (R-CA-01), Rick Allen (R-GA-12), Neal Dunn (R-FL-02), Tom O’Halleran (D-AZ-01), Jodey Arrington (R-TX-19), Michael Guest (R-MS-03), Andy Biggs (R-AZ-05), Julia Letlow (R-LA-05), and Andrew Clyde (R-GA-09).

Below is the full text of the letter:

November 11, 2021

The Honorable Katherine Tai

United States Trade Representative

600 17th St NW,

Washington, DC 20006

Dear Ambassador Tai:

We write to you about ongoing negotiations between the Office of the United States Trade Representative and the Government of India. As you continue discussions to expand our bilateral trade relationship and ensure the future success of the U.S.-India Trade Policy Forum, we would like to stress the importance of removing existing barriers to the export of U.S. agricultural products, specifically pecans.

As you may know, American pecan producers have faced many challenges due to rising imports from Mexico, Chinese tariffs, natural disasters like Hurricane Michael, and the COVID-19 pandemic. Gaining access to new markets for pecans will help ease the pain while orchards are replanted and as we push China for full implementation of its obligations under the U.S - China Economic and Trade Agreement.

India’s middle class has demonstrated its desire for consumer-oriented agricultural products, like tree nuts, and their market represents one of the fastest growing in the world. Unfortunately, the current high tariff (36 percent) that India charges on pecan imports makes it difficult for American producers to compete in this important market. In contrast, India’s tariffs on U.S. pistachio and almond imports are much lower (10 percent). Lowering the tariff on pecans would provide the Indian people with more economical access to tree nut varieties, while providing a much-needed economic boost to rural America.

The pecan industry contributes over $3.57 billion to the economies of the 15 pecan producing states in the United States. Over the last ten years, exports alone have pumped an additional $1.25 billion in economic activity into rural America. Reducing trade barriers into India is an opportunity to strengthen the economy of rural America.

Thank you for your commitment to expand market access for American agricultural products around the world.

Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-hosts-virtual-town-hall-to-highlight-usda-rd-programs-for-ag-producers-businesses-local-governments,"CONGRESSMAN BISHOP HOSTS VIRTUAL TOWN HALL TO HIGHLIGHT USDA RD PROGRAMS FOR AG PRODUCERS, BUSINESSES & LOCAL GOVERNMENTS",2021-11-12,2021,2021-11,Democrat,House,GA,"Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.",B000490,bishop.house.gov,bishop,https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"COLUMBUS, GA – This week, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) hosted a virtual town hall event to promote awareness of and participation in U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development (USDA RD) programs. Deputy Under Secretary for Rural Development, Justin Maxson, joined the Congressman and introduced the audience to USDA RD. Additional presentations highlighted funding opportunities available to agricultural producers, businesses, and local governments. The Congressman also invited local success stories to share their experiences applying for and working with USDA RD.

You can watch the event and learn more about the USDA RD programs that were discussed by visiting https://bishop.house.gov/TownHall/2021-11-09/USDA-RD-Programs.

""Our rural communities face unique challenges but their well-being affects every American, regardless of where they live. In Congress, I have worked with my colleagues to create and robustly fund USDA Rural Development programs that can help build and improve water and water treatment facilities, rehabilitate community facilities including rural health clinics, expand markets for our agricultural producers, and so much more,"" said Congressman Bishop. ""When our towns and residents successfully participate in these programs, it can mean improved utility services, cleaner water, new jobs, and having healthcare that is closer to home. This town hall event helps connect them with USDA Rural Development so that our communities can benefit from these opportunities.""

""If individuals or local government leaders have a question about these programs or how to get in contact with USDA Rural Development, then I encourage them to call my office,"" Congressman Bishop added.

""The people of Rural America are critically important to the success of our entire country. When rural Americans reach their full potential, all of America benefits,"" said USDA Deputy Under Secretary for Rural Development Justin Maxson. ""Thanks to the leadership of Congressman Bishop, and under the leadership of the Biden-Harris Administration and Agriculture Secretary Vilsack, at USDA Rural Development, we are championing rural people to elevate progress for all. Our role and purpose is as an investor, an ally, and an advocate for rural people. USDA aims to make rural communities great places to live and work for everyone.""

In addition to Deputy Under Secretary Maxson, Steffanie Bezruki (Chief of Staff of the Rural Business-Cooperative Service), Caryn Compton (Chief of Staff of the Rural Utilities Service), and Jamal Habibi (Chief of Staff for the Rural Housing Service) provided information to attendees about several USDA RD programs — including how the funds could be used and who is eligible to apply.

Mayor Kevin Brown of Buena Vista as well as Executive Director Robert Cooke of Southwest Georgia United shared their experiences working with USDA RD and how its programs affected their communities.

The event is the latest town hall hosted by Congressman Bishop. In September, he hosted a virtual town hall with guests from the Georgia Department of Community Affairs, Urban League of Greater Columbus, and the Georgia Apartment Association to help landlords and tenants better understand the COVID-19 emergency rental assistance program.

You can also view that event on the Congressman's website at https://bishop.house.gov/covid-19-response-emergency-rental-assistance-program.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/president-biden-signs-bishop-and-ferguson-bill-into-law-naming-columbus-va-clinic-for-colonel-bob-poydasheff,PRESIDENT BIDEN SIGNS BISHOP AND FERGUSON BILL INTO LAW NAMING COLUMBUS VA CLINIC FOR COLONEL BOB POYDASHEFF,2021-11-12,2021,2021-11,Democrat,House,GA,"Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.",B000490,bishop.house.gov,bishop,https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, President Biden signed H.R. 3475 into law. It is a bill that was introduced by Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) along with Congressman Drew Ferguson (GA-03) and which names the new Department of Veterans Affairs' community-based outpatient clinic in Columbus, Georgia in honor of Colonel Robert ""Bob"" S. Poydasheff. The Congressmen led the effort to pass the bill in the House in September and it was passed by the Senate by unanimous consent this week.

""Robert ‘Bob' Poydasheff was a decorated service member, champion of veterans, and steadfast public servant. He was also a husband, father, grandfather, and dear friend. He was beloved by the people of Columbus and the military veteran community of Georgia. He touched the lives of so many and we have missed him dearly since his passing in September of last year,"" said Congressman Bishop. ""It was my honor to introduce this bill with Congressman Ferguson. By signing our bipartisan bill into law as we commemorate another Veterans Day, the President and Congress have now bestowed a fitting and timely tribute to Mayor Poydasheff's legacy of selfless service by naming the new VA Clinic in Columbus after him.""

""I'm thrilled that our bipartisan legislation to rename the Columbus VA clinic in honor of former mayor Colonel (Retired) Bob Poydasheff is now law,"" said Congressman Ferguson. ""Colonel Poydasheff was a staple of the Columbus community and a strong advocate for America's veterans. This recognition pays well-deserved homage to a hometown hero.""

Robert S. Poydasheff served honorably in the U.S. Army for twenty-four years and retired at the rank of Colonel. He began his military career as an Infantry Officer before transferring to the Judge Advocate General Corps. He was a decorated soldier and elected to the Ranger Hall of Fame located at Ft. Benning in Georgia.

Following his retirement he made Columbus his home where was elected to the City Council and served as the Mayor of Columbus. He advocated for disadvantaged veterans and supported the location of the new VA clinic in Columbus which the bill will name in his honor.

The bill was cosponsored by every member of the Georgia Congressional Delegation and enjoyed the support of the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the American Legion, and the Disabled American Veterans organizations.

The clinic, which is now under construction and expected to be open by March of 2022, is located at 6910 River Road, in Columbus, Georgia.

The new clinic will be a state-of-the-art facility and will provide a wide range of medical services to veterans in Columbus and the Chattahoochee Valley area in conjunction with existing facilities located at Fort Benning and in Midtown Columbus near the Piedmont Regional Hospital campus.

When the bill was being considered by the U.S. House of Representatives in September, Congressman Bishop spoke on the House Floor to urge his colleagues to support the bill. You can view his remarks by clicking here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://clyde.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=36,Rep. Clyde Demands Answers from Biden Administration After Houthis Take Over U.S. Embassy,2021-11-12,2021,2021-11,Republican,House,GA,Andrew S. Clyde,C001116,clyde.house.gov,clyde,https://clyde.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Today, Congressman Andrew Clyde (GA-09) released the following statement after the Iranian-backed Houthis stormed the U.S. Embassy in Yemen on Wednesday:

“Shortly after taking office, President Biden foolishly removed the Houthis, the Iranian-backed proxy force in Yemen, from the Foreign Terrorist Organization and Specially Designated Global Terrorist lists. Emboldened by Biden’s ill-advised decision and blatant lack of leadership, the Houthis attacked the U.S. Embassy in Yemen on Wednesday – using the raid to take hostages and equipment. I am incredibly concerned for the safety of the employees who were kidnapped by this ruthless organization, and I call on the Biden Administration to immediately provide a briefing to Congress regarding individuals still being held captive by the Houthis and what actions are being taken to address this dangerous situation.

“After years of brutal tactics, this latest act of aggression further solidifies the Houthis’ troubling pattern of hostile behavior and proves that the group must be designated as a foreign terrorist organization. Back in June, I proudly introduced legislation to do just that. H.R. 3965, the ‘Standing Against Houthi Aggression Act’ would reinstate sanctions that the Trump Administration placed on the Houthis and redesignate the group as a foreign terrorist organization. I implore all of my colleagues – both Republican and Democrat – to respond to Wednesday’s breach by supporting my legislation and recognizing the Houthis for what they are – a terrorist organization. I also call on Speaker Pelosi to bring H.R. 3965 to the floor for immediate consideration.

“We cannot allow the leadership vacuum in the White House to create yet another massive disaster in the Middle East. The world has already witnessed the Biden Administration’s catastrophic failures in the withdrawal from Afghanistan, where 14,000 U.S. legal permanent residents are said to remain in the clutches of the Taliban. The United States must project strength, not weakness and thereby further empower Iran. The Administration must swiftly respond to the Houthis’ aggression and bring the hostages back to safety.”

Full text of H.R. 3965 can be found HERE.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=61AC95C5-13EE-4B89-B617-4ABEDB68349D,"McBath Announces Historic Investments in Clean Drinking Water, Protecting Georgians from Climate Change, Weatherization, and Cyberattacks",2021-11-12,2021,2021-11,Democrat,House,GA,Lucy McBath,M001208,mcbath.house.gov,mcbath,https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Marietta, GA – On the last day of “Infrastructure Week,” Rep. Lucy McBath (GA-06) is highlighting historic investments in infrastructure to provide clean drinking water and help protect Georgia and the nation from the impacts of climate change, the dangers of cyberattacks, and damage from extreme weather events.

“Across our country, Americans are in need of clean drinking water, resilient infrastructure, and the peace of mind that our economy is safe from cyberattacks” said McBath. “With these tools from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, we can reinforce and secure the vital resources necessary for everyday life. These investments will set us on a path of sustainability that will benefit Georgians for generations to come.”

Georgia can expect to receive $46 million over five years to protect against floods, wildfires, and cyberattacks as well as a $3.5 billion national investment in weatherization thanks to the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. This investment will work to keep energy costs low and keep Georgians safe both physically and digitally.

Up to 10 million American households and 400,000 schools and childcare centers lack access to safe drinking water. Under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, Georgia will expect to receive $913 million to improve its water infrastructure. This will ensure that communities in need have lead pipe drinking water systems replaced and secure full access to safe drinking water. This bill also includes over $12 billion dedicated to coastal resilience, which will improve upon Georgia’s need for investments in flood and storm water resilience by supporting water recycling.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=E4889047-8F8A-45FC-9F37-B109BD148F10,"McBath Touts Critical Investments to Strengthen Supply Chain, Improve Airports, And Upgrade Seaports and Waterways",2021-11-11,2021,2021-11,Democrat,House,GA,Lucy McBath,M001208,mcbath.house.gov,mcbath,https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Marietta, GA – On the fourth day of “Infrastructure Week”, Rep. Lucy McBath (GA-06) is touting the generational investment in Georgia airports and seaports. Thanks to the historic passage of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, more than $600 million will be set aside for travel and trade in the state. These long-term investments will help deliver goods more efficiently and safely, providing the necessary tools to address congestion in waterways and airways in order to make travel and trade easier for Georgians.

“This bill provides much-needed funding for our bustling airports, seaports, and waterways,” said McBath. “Funding that strengthens and improves our supply chain, funding that makes our airports more secure and efficient, and funding that modernizes waterways to ship our goods quickly and safely.”

Georgia is home to 109 public airports and 4 ports, including Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport and the Port of Savannah, both mainstays in the local and national economy. Additional funding will buttress construction and existing infrastructure, creating more jobs, stimulating the economy, and streamlining traffic through these critical access points in our country.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/house-chairs-urge-judiciary-investigate-hiring-law-clerk-history-racist,"House Chairs Urge Judiciary to Investigate Hiring of Law Clerk with History of Racist, Bigoted Conduct by Two Federal Judges",2021-11-10,2021,2021-11,Democrat,House,GA,"Henry C. ""Hank"" Johnson, Jr.",J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,hankjohnson,https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Today, House Judiciary Committee Chair Jerrold Nadler (D-NY) and Subcommittee on Courts, Intellectual Property, and the Internet Chair Hank Johnson (D-GA) led a letter to Chief Justice John Roberts and Circuit Judge Charles Wilson urging an investigation into the conduct of two federal judges for their hiring of a law clerk with a history of nakedly racist and hateful conduct. Chief Judge William Pryor of the Eleventh Circuit Court and Judge Corey Maze of the Northern District of Alabama, who hired the individual even in the face of wide reporting on the individual's history of making discriminatory and bigoted remarks, have made no public statements explaining their hiring decisions and have refused requests for comments from multiple outlets. The Members have also requested a briefing on the results of the investigation by December 1st.

In their letter, the Members wrote, ""Accordingly, as the facts now stand, these two federal judges hired an individual with a widely reported pattern of racist and bigoted conduct. In the eyes of the public, she will be one of these judges' closest advisors with special access to the judicial decision-making process. In the eyes of the law, her work will be treated 'as one' with their own. That these judges hired her therefore creates both the appearance of and risk of actual bias in their chambers and their decisions as well as other potential problems...""

The letter was also signed by Subcommittee on the Constitution, Civil Rights, and Civil Liberties Chair Steve Cohen (D-TN), Subcommittee on Crime, Terrorism and Homeland Security Chair Sheila Jackson Lee (D-TX), Subcommittee on Antitrust, Commercial, and Administrative Law Chair David N. Cicilline (D-RI), Subcommittee on Immigration and Citizenship Chair Zoe Lofgren (D-CA), and Oversight and Reform Subcommittee on Government Operations Chair Gerry Connolly (D-VA).

Full text of the letter can be found below and here:

November 10, 2021

The Honorable John G. Roberts, Jr.

Chief Justice

Supreme Court of the United States

1 First Street NE

Washington, D.C. 20543

The Honorable Charles Wilson

Circuit Judge

United States Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit

56 Forsyth Street NW

Atlanta, Georgia 30303

Dear Chief Justice Roberts and Judge Wilson:

We write with grave concern regarding the news that Judge William Pryor, Chief Judge of the Eleventh Circuit Court of Appeals, and Judge Corey Maze of the Northern District of Alabama have hired an individual with a history of nakedly racist and hateful conduct as a future law clerk in their chambers. Placing an individual with this history in such close proximity to judicial decision-making threatens to seriously undermine the public's faith in the federal judiciary. No litigant or lawyer who is part of a racial, national, or religious minority can trust that they will receive equal justice before these judges. No one bringing a case involving claims of discrimination or civil rights violations can assume that these judges' rulings will be free from invidious bias. This is simply unacceptable. We urge you, as the presiding member of the Judicial Conference of the United States and the most senior active member of the Eleventh Circuit, to address and rectify the impacts of these recent hiring decisions and assure the public that racism and bigotry have no place in the federal judiciary.

The facts surrounding this hire's past conduct are alarming. During the period that she worked as national field director for Turning Point USA:

• She sent a text message to a colleague stating ""I HATE BLACK PEOPLE. Like f[---] them all . . . I hate blacks. End of story.""

• She would ""exchange racist remarks regularly"" with her coworkers.

• She sent a photo to at least two coworkers of a man with brown skin with the caption, ""[j]ust thinking about ways to do another 9/11.""

• She and her coworkers ""would often send similar anti-Muslim messages that included remarks like ‘a bacon a day keeps the Islams away' and ‘Ramadan bombathon,' as well as tak[e] pictures of their heads wrapped in towels to mock head coverings commonly worn by Arabs, according to sources who received the messages.""

• She fired her organization's only Black employee on Martin Luther King Day. That employee later stated that Turning Point USA was a ""racist"" workplace and that she felt ""very uncomfortable working there because I was black.""

When asked by a reporter about these statements and actions as they were first reported in 2017, this individual made no apology for her history of racist and bigoted conduct. Instead, she claimed that she ""had no recollection"" of what she had done.

While the above actions are worrying in the extreme, we want to make clear that the focus of this letter is not the individual who was hired but, rather, the members of the federal judiciary who chose to hire her. This past conduct was clearly publicly available by the time of these judges' hiring decisions. If the judges were not aware of their law clerk's widely reported record, their negligent hiring practices present their own set of problems with the judiciary and the judges' abilities to discharge their administrative responsibilities competently. In any event, to our knowledge, these judges have taken no remedial action since these facts were widely reported yet again during recent weeks.

What makes Chief Judge Pryor's and Judge Maze's decisions so singularly problematic is the proximity law clerks have to judicial decision-making. Law clerks are unlike any other judicial employee due to the ""confidential and close nature of the relationship between the clerk and the judge."" They are ""privy to the judge's thoughts in a way that neither parties to the lawsuit nor his most intimate family members may be."" Law clerks are frequently responsible for writing the questions a judge will ask at oral argument and even ""writing a first draft of the [judge's] opinion in a case."" As one court has explained:

In contrast to court clerks, who frequently perform ministerial functions, a law clerk generally performs discretionary acts of a judicial nature. Indeed, a law clerk is probably the one participant in the judicial process whose duties and responsibilities are most intimately connected with the judge's own exercise of the judicial function.

The relationship between a judge and a law clerk is so close that they are even treated ""as one"" for purposes of judicial immunity.

Accordingly, as the facts now stand, these two federal judges hired an individual with a widely reported pattern of racist and bigoted conduct. In the eyes of the public, she will be one of these judges' closest advisors with special access to the judicial decision-making process. In the eyes of the law, her work will be treated ""as one"" with their own. That these judges hired her therefore creates both the appearance of and risk of actual bias in their chambers and their decisions as well as other potential problems, including:

• Whether these judges' hiring decisions warrant their recusal from specific matters likely to come before them. The specters of bias—both actual and apparent—are unmistakable. To put it mildly, it would be reasonable to question these judges' impartiality in cases where race, religion, or national origin plays a role, which is the statutory standard for disqualification.

• Whether the judges' conduct also implicates the judicial misconduct statute as conduct that is prejudicial to the effective and expeditious administration of justice. If Judges Pryor and Maze were aware of their law clerk's record when they hired her, their hiring decisions could be taken as ""knowing approval of invidious discrimination,"" which violates the Code of Conduct for United States Judges because it ""gives the appearance of impropriety"" and ""diminishes public confidence in the integrity and impartiality of the judiciary."" To the extent the judges were not aware of these statements and conduct, it calls into question their hiring practices, as discussed above.

• Whether the judges' hiring decisions could have a deleterious effect on the practice of law in the Northern District of Alabama and the Eleventh Circuit. The fear of invidious bias could motivate parties to accept less favorable settlements to avoid coming before these judges. Law firms might be reluctant to staff minority lawyers on cases before these judges and might be less receptive to taking cases with minority clients or claims involving, for example, racial or religious discrimination.

• Whether the judges' hiring decisions—and the judiciary's failure to address them—send a chilling message to judicial-branch employees as well as their fellow judges. We note that judicial-branch employees are not protected by the foundational civil rights statutes, such as the Civil Rights Act of 1964, which prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, national origin, and religion, that apply to most Americans, including most federal employees. In light of this shameful incident, we hope that that the Judicial Conference will reconsider its decades-long opposition to extending these basic antidiscrimination laws to its own employees.

To date, the news of these judges' hiring decisions has been met with uniform silence by the judges themselves, the courts on which they sit, and the Judicial Conference. The American public and the litigants and attorneys with cases before Chief Judge Pryor and Judge Maze are thus left wondering how the judiciary will address specific problems like those outlined above and are left with the impression that the judiciary is comfortable turning a blind eye to the hiring of an individual with a pattern of making racist and discriminatory remarks in precisely the forum—the federal courts—where there is supposed to be justice for the victims of such discrimination.

We ask that you promptly investigate this matter and take whatever action by the United States Judicial Conference or the Eleventh Circuit Judicial Council is necessary to preserve the public and litigants' trust in the integrity and impartiality of the federal judiciary, protect judicial branch employees, and prevent invidious bias from further tainting the business of the Eleventh Circuit and the Northern District of Alabama. We request a briefing on the results of your investigation no later than December 1, 2021.

Thank you for addressing this matter with the urgency and concern it demands.

Sincerely,

Members of Congress",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=88362690-0382-4917-85E5-C16310C6D039,"McBath, Sec. Raimondo Spotlight Critical Investment in Secure, Reliable, and Affordable Broadband",2021-11-10,2021,2021-11,Democrat,House,GA,Lucy McBath,M001208,mcbath.house.gov,mcbath,https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Marietta, GA – Today, on the third day of “Infrastructure Week,” Rep. Lucy McBath (GA-06) is spotlighting the historic investments in broadband access for Georgians passed last week in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.

“Families across Georgia rely on access to broadband for their jobs, their schoolwork, and keeping in touch with loved ones,” McBath emphasized. “Expanding our state’s access to broadband is critical for the economic success of our small businesses, the educational future of our children, and the pursuit of equity in our communities.”

U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina M. Raimondo applauded the upcoming support, “I want to thank Representative McBath for her hard work passing the bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. For too long we’ve neglected investments in critical areas that directly impact American workers, American businesses and American families. One of the many historic investments in this bill is the effort to bridge the digital divide and ensure all Americans have access to reliable, affordable broadband. Broadband is not a luxury, it’s a necessity. Thanks to President Biden’s vision and the Congresswoman’s tireless effort to get this passed, we can now bring affordable broadband to every community in Georgia.”

This landmark $100 million investment in Georgia will establish the Affordability Connectivity Benefit, helping more than three million low-income Georgians gain access to reliable internet. Expanding access to broadband will have major positive impacts on the state’s economy and uplift millions of families from rural and urban communities alike.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-statement-on-the-passing-of-former-senator-max-cleland,CONGRESSMAN BISHOP STATEMENT ON THE PASSING OF FORMER SENATOR MAX CLELAND,2021-11-09,2021,2021-11,Democrat,House,GA,"Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.",B000490,bishop.house.gov,bishop,https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) issued the following statement in response to the passing of former U.S. Senator Max Cleland:

""Today, America lost a selfless public servant, Georgia lost a dedicated leader, and I lost a friend.

""Max Cleland was a son of Georgia who served America through one of our toughest military conflicts. He returned from that war bearing its scars — both visible and invisible. Yet, through his suffering, Max Cleland found purpose in public service.

""Whether it was through the state legislature, leading what is now the Veterans Administration, serving as Georgia's Secretary of State, or representing us in the U.S. Senate, Max Cleland was a dedicated leader who sought to improve the lives of those he served, especially his fellow veterans.

""I had the good fortune to work with Max as Georgia's Secretary of State, U.S. Senator, and Secretary of the American Battle Monuments Commission ensuring the memory of our fallen — across the globe — were remembered and honored.

""Though he may have passed in body, the legacy of Senator Cleland's indomitable spirit will live on in the lives of those he inspired and helped.

""We will miss him dearly but always feel his presence. God bless him and his family.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=8532,Carter applauds investment in Georgia’s ports,2021-11-09,2021,2021-11,Republican,House,GA,"Earl L. ""Buddy"" Carter",C001103,buddycarter.house.gov,buddycarter,https://buddycarter.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON- The White House today announced it is reallocating $8 million for the Georgia Port Authority (GPA) to address congestion at the Port of Savannah.

US Representative Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) applauded the move, which will create an inland yard in Atlanta and relieve congestion in Savannah.

“This is an important first step towards addressing congestion affecting Savannah,” said Carter. “I applaud the Georgia Ports Authority for their creativity in proposing this solution and hope it will serve as a model for ports across the country.”

According to the GPA, shipping containers are lingering as much as three times longer in ports due to breakdowns in the global supply chain. These extended wait times harm business owners and consumers alike, with many small businesses unable to assume normal operations.

“While an important first step, we need to make sure it is not the last. I stand ready to work with President Biden and my colleagues in Congress to advance sound economic policies and targeted investments to ease the supply chain crisis we face,” said Carter.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-johnson-passing-former-us-senator-max-cleland,Rep. Johnson on the Passing of Former U.S. Senator Max Cleland,2021-11-09,2021,2021-11,Democrat,House,GA,"Henry C. ""Hank"" Johnson, Jr.",J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,hankjohnson,https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"DECATUR, GA — Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) today released the following statement on the passing of former VA Administrator and Georgia U.S. Senator Max Cleland:

""The indefatigable Senator Max Cleland of Lithonia, Georgia, was a giant of a human being who, in overcoming all adversity, showed us how to build a winning life. Although our paths did not cross frequently, often when we saw each other Max would grab me and bestow a big hug, and I would hug him right back. Highly accomplished, Max also exuded warmth and positivity, and treated all with kindness. I salute Max for a life well lived, and we will miss him greatly. My prayers go out to his entire family.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=B7C49EA6-FFF4-4E2C-BB73-D5D3C40486E4,"McBath Highlights Investments in Sustainable, Reliable Public Transit and Electric Vehicles",2021-11-09,2021,2021-11,Democrat,House,GA,Lucy McBath,M001208,mcbath.house.gov,mcbath,https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Marietta, GA – On the second day of “Infrastructure Week” following last week’s passage of the historic Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, Rep. Lucy McBath (GA-06) is highlighting investments the legislation makes in sustainable, reliable public transit and electric vehicles right here in Georgia. For decades, infrastructure in Georgia has suffered from a lack of investment, but will now receive $1.4 billion to improve public transportation options and at least $135 million to support the expansion of an EV charging network. The infrastructure funding spotlights the importance of investing in the everyday lives of Georgia’s families.

“Every resident of metro Atlanta has a right to high-quality, regular, and dependable transportation options, and we must continue to make it easier, safer, and more sustainable to travel across our state,” said McBath. “This bipartisan legislation helps us improve critical transportation for underserved residential areas, getting Americans back to work, connecting employees with employers, and ensuring our small businesses have access to the customers they need to grow and thrive.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://allen.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=4890,Committee Leaders Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Help Workers Save for Retirement,2021-11-08,2021,2021-11,Republican,House,GA,Rick W. Allen,A000372,allen.house.gov,allen,https://allen.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Today, Education and Labor Committee Chairman Robert C. “Bobby” Scott (VA-03), Committee Ranking Member Virginia Foxx (NC-05), Health, Employment, Labor, and Pensions Subcommittee Chair Mark DeSaulnier (CA-11), and Subcommittee Ranking Member Rick Allen (GA-12) introduced legislation—theRetirement Improvement and Savings Enhancement (RISE) Act (H.R. 5891)—to expand American workers’ access to secure retirement.

“During a time of so much division in Congress, it is refreshing to join our colleagues across the aisle on such important bipartisan legislation,” said Rep. Allen. “The RISE Act will put our nation’s retirement system on a stronger footing. The bill provides workers and employers with more options and incentives to increase retirement savings. We must do all we can to ensure that workers are entering into retirement with enough savings to provide for their future and this bipartisan legislation is an important step toward achieving this goal.”

“We have a responsibility to create an economy where American workers can retire with dignity and security,” said Chairman Scott. “Unfortunately, far too many older Americans are working later in their lives and still relying on their next paycheck to cover monthly expenses. The RISE Act is a bipartisan proposal that will help Americans prepare for, and achieve, the secure retirement they deserve. This legislation makes meaningful improvements to our retirement system, including making it easier for workers to track their retirement savings when they switch jobs, providing employers more tools to encourage their workers to participate in retirement plans, and expanding access to retirement plans for part-time workers. These policies are a step in the right direction toward a more secure retirement for workers and their families. I am pleased to have partnered with Ranking Member Foxx, HELP Subcommittee Chair DeSaulnier, and HELP Subcommittee Ranking Member Allen on this bipartisan bill and look forward to advancing it in our Committee this week.”

“It is crucial to help Americans better prepare for retirement, and this is exactly what the RISE Act does,” said Ranking Member Foxx. “Improving saving opportunities for workers is an important bipartisan priority. We all want to see Americans enter retirement more secure and more prepared. This bipartisan legislation will help empower both workers and employers to work in tandem towards a better and more secure future.”

“A secure retirement should be the right of every worker. It is unacceptable that millions of Americans are losing out on their hard-earned savings due to roadblocks and red tape,” said Rep. DeSaulnier. “I am proud to come together with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to honor hardworking Americans by modernizing our retirement system to ensure every working American is able to access their savings and retire with dignity.”

The RISE Act makes an array of improvements to America’s retirement system to better help workers and retirees plan and save for secure retirement. The legislation:

Establishes an online, searchable “Retirement Lost and Found” database at the Department of Labor to help workers locate their hard-earned retirement savings as they move from job to job.

Allows 403(b) retirement plans to participate in multiple employer plans and pooled employer plans.

Ensures more part-time workers are offered opportunities to join retirement savings plans.

Clarifies rules regarding the recovery of inadvertent overpayments to retirees, minimizing hardships.

Enables employers to provide small financial incentives, such as low-dollar gift cards, to incentivize workers’ participation in retirement plans.

Simplifies and clarifies reporting and disclosure requirements related to retirement plans.

For a fact sheet on the RISE Act, click here.

For a section-by-section of the RISE Act, click here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=D6F773C5-044B-4142-A14E-4DBABDCD5F61,"McBath Announces “Infrastructure Week,” Highlights Historic Investments in Safe Roads and Bridges for Georgia Families",2021-11-08,2021,2021-11,Democrat,House,GA,Lucy McBath,M001208,mcbath.house.gov,mcbath,https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Marietta, GA – Today, Rep. Lucy McBath (GA-06) is announcing the start of “Infrastructure Week” following the passage of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act in the U.S. House of Representatives on Friday. Every day this week, McBath will highlight the impact this bill will have on the lives of hard-working Georgia families. Among the historic investments coming to the state, the infrastructure package includes $8.9 billion for highway programs receiving federal aid and $225 million for bridge replacement and repairs in Georgia.

“This monumental bill invests in one of the things families in the metro-Atlanta area need most: roads that make it quicker and safer to get to work,” said McBath. “We know how long overdue these improvements are—that’s part of why I was so proud to vote for the passage of this historic bill. We’ve made infrastructure one of our top priorities because it’s about safety, it’s about efficiency, and it’s about providing Americans with roadways and highways that connect them to their everyday lives.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://clyde.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=28,Rep. Clyde Slams Democrats' So-Called Infrastructure Bill,2021-11-07,2021,2021-11,Republican,House,GA,Andrew S. Clyde,C001116,clyde.house.gov,clyde,https://clyde.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"– Today, Congressman Andrew Clyde (GA-09) released the following statement after voting against H.R.3684, the ""Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act,"" on Friday night:

“For too long, our federal government has failed to focus its resources on investments that modernize our infrastructure. Americans desperately need true infrastructure like roads, bridges, broadband, and modern shipping and energy production facilities, that grow our economy and will meet the needs of future generations. Yet under the cover of darkness, Speaker Pelosi forced a vote on a massive $1.2 trillion piece of legislation that is estimated to add more than $250 billion to our nation’s projected debt through 2031.

""What’s more, only 9% of the total cost, or $108 billion, is focused on hardened infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, and public transportation. The vast majority of this bill is brimming with wasteful spending that advances radical Green New Deal policies, including billions of dollars for carbon capture programs, federally subsidized electric vehicle charging stations, and zero-emission bus grants for intercity transit. At the end of the day, the bill completely fails to address border security infrastructure and to solve one of the worst supply chain crises of our lifetime.

“It has been readily known for months that this legislation is nothing more than a wolf in sheep’s clothing that is directly tied to President Biden’s Big Government Socialist tax and spend package, which is why I am deeply disappointed that thirteen members of our conference chose to fall for the Democrats’ ruse after the country made clear their repudiation of Biden’s socialist agenda earlier this week. Had those members stood in solidarity with their colleagues and the Republican electorate, we would have defeated this horrendous bill and likely struck a death blow to the President’s upcoming $1.75 trillion ‘Build Back Better’ tax and spend package, now expected to come up for a vote when lawmakers return to Washington later this month.

“Now more than ever, Republicans must remain united in defeating the Left’s dangerous agenda that will forever alter the future of this great nation, and I was proud to represent the values of my district in voting 'NO' on H.R. 3684, the Left’s Green New Deal 9% infrastructure bill, which ultimately passed the House by a vote of 228 to 206.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://austinscott.house.gov/press-releases?ID=30CC7D8A-C033-409F-BD33-1C213CBD5FC0,Rep. Austin Scott Comments on Passage of Infrastructure Legislation,2021-11-06,2021,2021-11,Republican,House,GA,Austin Scott,S001189,austinscott.house.gov,austinscott,https://austinscott.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Representative Austin Scott (R-GA-08) issued the below statement upon House-passage of the infrastructure bill late last night:

“In the cover of darkness last night, the House passed a Trojan horse ‘infrastructure' bill. It is $1.2 trillion in total spending, but only a sliver of that is dedicated to traditional infrastructure projects, like roads and bridges,” said Rep. Scott. “Thirteen Republicans provided the deciding votes for Speaker Pelosi and helped pass a key piece of President Biden’s socialist agenda. Make no mistake about it. The Republicans who voted for this yesterday helped pave the way for the Reconciliation package to be brought up in the coming weeks, which will lead to higher taxes and more federal control of our lives.”

Rep. Scott continued: “The opinion of the public should matter, and the public spoke on Tuesday, where the Democrats’ massive federal encroachment agenda was rejected. Yet, Democrats have again rammed through unpopular liberal policies. They are completely out-of-touch with Americans, or they simply don’t care what they think.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-votes-to-pass-bipartisan-infrastructure-bill-that-will-bring-over-105-billion-to-georgia,CONGRESSMAN BISHOP VOTES TO PASS BIPARTISAN INFRASTRUCTURE BILL THAT WILL BRING OVER $10.5 BILLION TO GEORGIA,2021-11-06,2021,2021-11,Democrat,House,GA,"Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.",B000490,bishop.house.gov,bishop,https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Yesterday, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) helped secure $550 billion in new federal investment in surface infrastructure, high-speed internet, and the environment by sending H.R. 3684, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, to President Biden for his signature. It will set the tone for the country's investment in roads, bridges, rail, airports, and ports. It also addresses key environmental needs including climate change, clean drinking water, replacing lead service lines, and wastewater as well as environmental remediation, resilience, and justice. It modernizes America's energy infrastructure and supports programs that connect rural communities with high-speed internet.

In addition to creating millions of jobs that will help drive the economy, the bill is financed by several means, including redirecting certain unspent emergency relief funds and concluding tax credits meant to address challenges faced in the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, targeted corporate user fees, strengthening tax enforcement of cryptocurrency, requiring rebates from manufacturers of certain drugs administered under Medicare Part B, and other bipartisan measures.

The Senate voted 69-30 to approve the bill in August. The U.S. House of Representatives passed the bill by a bipartisan vote of 228-206.

""Congress is making the largest federal investment in our vital infrastructure that we have ever seen which presents many opportunities for Georgians. This includes expanding the Interstate 14 designation through Columbus to Augusta, supporting new intercity passenger rail routes which can connect communities along the Interstate 75 corridor, increasing our commitment to rural broadband, and making smart investments in clean energy that will create more good-paying manufacturing jobs,"" said Congressman Bishop. ""These are just a few ways that every community across Middle and Southwest Georgia can benefit from this bill. We also worked tirelessly to make sure that the jobs created by this bill will be for hardworking Americans by including significant Buy American protections.""

The bill expands the Interstate Highway 14 designation as a high priority corridor, which currently only runs for 25 miles near Fort Hood, Texas. The expanded highway would create a new 1,300 mile corridor running from Texas — through Columbus — all the way to Augusta, Georgia. The proposed route would upgrade existing roads between Interstate Highways 10 and 20, connecting military facilities and promoting new economic opportunities for Georgia.

Other programs supported by the bill include:

$40 billion for a new Bridge Investment Program that can help repair and improve the nearly 400 bridges that are rated to be in fair or poor condition across Georgia

$15 billion for the Airport Improvement Program which can be used to repair and expand regional airports that are transportation hubs through which thousands of people and goods from across Georgia flow

$14.6 billion as part of reauthorizing the Sewer Overflow and Stormwater Reuse Municipal Grants program which can assist cities and towns across the district with their storm and wastewater systems which would help keep utility rates lower for residents

$5 billion for a new grant program to help improve the resiliency and reliability of electrical grid infrastructure against disruption caused by natural disasters, like hurricanes which have caused hundreds of millions of damage to Georgia in recent years

$2 billion for broadband improvements to provide high-speed internet connections for students, educators, small businesses, and families in rural communities

$500 million for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) that will help families with utilities costs and weatherization improvements to reduce those costs

$200 million to eliminate non-native plants and animals as well as pests that harm properties, farms, and other businesses across the region

$30 million that can provide assistance to local governments that need updated emergency communications equipment

Transformative investments to combat climate change, including creating a new program for local schools to purchase electric school buses so that our children have a healthy environment on their commute to the classrooms

Before voting on the bill, the House also voted to begin consideration of the Build Back Better Act, a once-in-a-generation bill intended to help lower everyday costs — from child care to healthcare — while also providing a tax cut for hard-working Americans.

""In Middle and Southwest Georgia, provisions of the bill would help improve VA facilities, help address the physician and nurse shortage in rural hospitals and clinics, and caps the price of certain prescription drugs, including insulin at no more than $35 for a 30 day supply,"" said Congressman Bishop. ""I look forward to reviewing the Congressional Budget Office official score of the Build Back Better Act so that we can pass this bill that will help our communities in so many ways.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-johnson-votes-create-millions-new-jobs-rebuild-america-bipartisan,"Rep. Johnson Votes to Create Millions of New Jobs, Rebuild America with Bipartisan Infrastructure Package",2021-11-06,2021,2021-11,Democrat,House,GA,"Henry C. ""Hank"" Johnson, Jr.",J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,hankjohnson,https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Rep. Hank Johnson (GA-04) voted to create millions of good-paying union jobs with a once-in-a-century investment in rebuilding infrastructure in Georgia, including roads and bridges, transit, rail, clean drinking water and wastewater systems and high-speed broadband networks.

The bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act will repair and modernize crumbling and outdated infrastructure across the nation, ensuring all American communities have the infrastructure to succeed in the 21st Century economy and ending bottlenecks that add needless delays and costs for businesses bringing products to market and families traveling to school or work.

""Our nation's crumbling and outdated infrastructure weakens our economy, hurts families, and causes added costs and delays for American businesses bringing their goods to market,"" said Rep. Johnson. ""Democrats are delivering a transformational and bipartisan infrastructure bill that will create good-paying jobs here in Georgia, strengthen our economy, secure cleaner air and water, and make our communities a better place to live and work by bringing our infrastructure into the 21st century.

Together, the bipartisan infrastructure bill and the Build Back Better Act are estimated to create an average of 2 million jobs each year over the next decade.

In the wake of the pandemic, poor infrastructure has struggled to keep up with a sharp increase in consumer demand – resulting in added costs for businesses and delays for consumers. The United States ranks 13th globally in terms of the quality of our infrastructure, and the American Society of Civil Engineers gave the condition of our infrastructure a C-. As the economy continues its strong recovery, President Biden and the Congress are seizing this historic moment to Build Back Better: improving infrastructure in every state in the union, growing the economy and helping Americans get back to work, while advancing justice and opportunity for all.

This Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill will:

• Rebuild roads and bridges nationwide, including the largest bridge investment since the construction of the interstate highway system seven decades ago;

• Deliver clean drinking water to ten million families and more than 400,000 schools and childcare facilities nationwide with the largest-ever investment in American water infrastructure to replace lead pipes and service lines across the nation;

• Help clean up legacy pollution, which is an important step in advancing environmental justice;

• Expand access to reliable high-speed internet to help more families get online to work and learn;

• Make historic improvements to public transit, with the largest federal investment in American history and the largest federal investment in passenger rail since the creation of Amtrak; and

• Support action to address the climate crisis, making down-payments on clean energy transmission, a clean and resilient electric grid, electric vehicle infrastructure and more.

""If we want to build a stronger economy for working families and the middle class, we can't just go back to how things were before the pandemic,"" Rep. Johnson continued. ""That is why President Biden and Democrats in Congress remain committed to Building Back Better with a stronger, fairer, more competitive and more sustainable economy. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill is a crucial down-payment on this vision by getting millions of American workers back on the job – and alongside the Build Back Better Act, we are forging once-in-a-generation progress for nearly every Georgia family.""

The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act now goes to President Biden's desk to be signed into law.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=CFBE859B-BE36-4C43-BBB9-012C8234C806,"McBath Votes to Pass Historic Investment in Infrastructure, Package Passes House With Bipartisan Support",2021-11-06,2021,2021-11,Democrat,House,GA,Lucy McBath,M001208,mcbath.house.gov,mcbath,https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Last night, Rep. Lucy McBath (GA-06) and the House of Representatives passed H.R.3684, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, a historic and landmark bill to invest in America’s infrastructure, fix the nation’s crumbling roads and bridges, and improve safety for families and communities across the country. The package is the largest long-term investment in our infrastructure and competitiveness in nearly a century and passed with bipartisan support on a vote of 228-206. The funding will help build back a better America, put Americans back to work, and get this nation on its way back to normal.

“We have an opportunity to invest in American infrastructure that will bolster our communities for generations to come: roads that make it quicker and safer to get to work; walkways that make it safer for pedestrians and cars alike; and access to transportation that makes it easier and more equitable for everyone to get where they need to go.”said McBath. “Transportation and infrastructure have long been a central part of what makes our community run, and this bill represents a vital step as we work put Americans back to work, to ensure our local businesses have the access to the materials and talent they need to grow, to make transportation safer and faster, and to make our infrastructure systems more equitable for every American. At its very core, these projects are about safety, about efficiency, and about connectivity—connecting the people and places we love, connecting companies and consumers, and connecting Americans to America.”

The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act injects funds into projects including roads, bridges, and other needed infrastructure fixes across America. Among its key provisions, the bill:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=A02AFFB7-B06C-4406-8654-2BB1C7AE2AC9,"McBath, Bonamici, Wild Introduce Protections for Student Loan Borrowers",2021-11-05,2021,2021-11,Democrat,House,GA,Lucy McBath,M001208,mcbath.house.gov,mcbath,https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC – Today, Rep. Lucy McBath (D-GA), Suzanne?Bonamici?(D-OR), and Susan Wild (D-PA) introduced legislation to provide a safety net for student loan borrowers who are about to enter repayment.

The Department of Education’s COVID-19 pause on student loan repayment is scheduled to end on Feb. 1, 2022, after lasting nearly two years. The Student Loan Borrower Safety Net Act of 2021 would help borrowers during the transition period by requiring increased outreach from lenders, providing protection for borrowers who miss payments, and making it easier for borrowers to get into income-driven repayment plans.

“Students in Georgia and across our country have endured unimaginable difficulty over the last few years, and the student loan repayment pause served as needed relief in these difficult times,” said McBath. “As these payments come due once again, our work in Congress should support those seeking educational success. Our bill is an important step in protecting our student borrowers and helping safeguard their financial futures. I’m proud to lead this bill with my colleague Congresswoman Bonamici, helping to ensure America’s college students and graduates secure their financial health.”

“The pause on student loan repayment for the COVID-19 pandemic has been a lifeline for borrowers in Oregon and across the country,” said Bonamici. “As the pause ends and payments resume, borrowers should be protected from the worst effects of missing payments, whether unintentionally or because of financial distress. The Student Loan Borrower Safety Net Act will provide borrowers with the help they need in this time of transition.”

“Students across the country deserve support and clarity about their student loan payments, especially as we emerge from the worst of the pandemic,” said Wild. “I am proud to support this legislation to ensure that borrowers have the best information possible about their debt obligations, and to help prevent Americans from defaulting on their loans.”

The legislation is supported by Pew Charitable Trusts, New America, and The Institute for College Access & Success (TICAS).

“Many borrowers will need help when they’re required to begin repaying their student loans in February; in fact, when Pew surveyed borrowers this year, two-thirds (67%) said affording payments would be difficult if they resumed paying the following month,” said Regan Fitzgerald, manager of The Pew Charitable Trusts’ project on student borrower success. “The Student Loan Borrower Safety Net Act would provide evidence-based policies to support borrowers—especially those most at risk of delinquency and default—as they prepare to resume repayment. These include easier access to affordable payment plans, a grace period to allow borrowers who can’t afford monthly payments to get back into repayment in good standing, and targeted outreach about the resumption of payments.”

""If payments are to restart in February, easier access to low and $0 payments will be important protections for all borrowers, but especially those hit hardest by the pandemic,” said Sarah Sattelmeyer, Project Director for Education, Opportunity, and Mobility at New America.

“If the Education Department resumes federal student loan payments as planned, it is imperative that borrowers be protected from financial harm and have easy access to clear information and affordable repayment options,” said Sameer Gadkaree, President, TICAS. “We applaud Reps. Bonamici, McBath, and Wild for introducing this important legislation to create key safety nets for millions of borrowers.”

This bill will protect borrowers with Federal student loans during the transition period following the end of the COVID-19 student loan repayment pause by:

Providing earlier and more frequent outreach to borrowers that their payments are to resume;

Making it easier for borrowers to get into income-driven repayment plans;

Making it easier to access economic hardship support; and

Extending the time period for servicers to contact borrowers who miss a payment.

A summary of the legislation can be found here. The full text can be found here.

It is co-sponsored by Representatives Emanuel Cleaver (MO-5), Danny Davis (IL-07), and Alan Lowenthal (CA-47).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://clyde.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=31,Rep. Clyde Continues to Fight Back Against Biden's Unconstitutional COVID-19 Vaccine Mandate,2021-11-04,2021,2021-11,Republican,House,GA,Andrew S. Clyde,C001116,clyde.house.gov,clyde,https://clyde.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"– This week, Congressman Andrew Clyde (GA-09) joined many of his Republican colleagues in their shared goal of standing up against President Biden’s sweeping COVID-19 vaccine mandate.

“As crime surges in numerous urban areas throughout the country, the border crisis rages on, and workforce shortages continue to negatively impact our economy, Biden is forcing Americans out of a job if they refuse to get the jab,"" said Clyde. ""Just this morning, Biden released his authoritarian OSHA rules that dictate health decisions for more than 100 million American workers. Under the Administration’s medical tyranny, first responders, U.S. Border Patrol Agents, and federal contractors all face termination or loss of contracts if they refuse to comply with an unconstitutional vaccine mandate. In every way, we must challenge this blatant power grab that further weakens our fragile economy, makes communities less safe, and completely disregards Americans’ fundamental freedoms.”

On Wednesday, Rep. Clyde joined House Committee on Oversight and Reform Ranking Member James Comer (R-KY) and Oversight Republican lawmakers in sending a letter to U.S. Department of Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, General Services Administration Secretary Robin Carnahan, and Office of Management and Budget Acting Director Shalanda Young requesting all information and documents related to the Biden Administration’s Executive Order (E.O.) requiring employees of federal contractors to be vaccinated against COVID-19 or face termination. The Administration’s E.O. expansion covers police departments, fire departments, and other vital local organizations across the country. Read the letter HERE.

Rep. Clyde also recently sent a letter with Republican members of the Homeland Security Subcommittee on Border Security, Facilitation, and Operations, including Ranking Member Clay Higgins (R-LA), Vice Ranking Member Michael Guest (R-MS), and Rep. Dan Bishop (R-NC), to Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas requesting that DHS provide detailed information on the number of fully vaccinated Border Patrol employees, its plan for employees who do not comply with the vaccine mandate, and how it will address attrition due to the mandate. Read the letter HERE.

Additionally, Rep. Clyde joined Rep. Madison Cawthorn’s (R-NC) press conference on Monday to support first responders in their fight against President Biden’s vaccine mandate.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-johnson-reintroduces-bipartisan-bill-modernizing-federal-court,"Rep. Johnson Reintroduces Bipartisan Bill Modernizing Federal Court Records System to Make It More Accessible, Transparent",2021-11-04,2021,2021-11,Democrat,House,GA,"Henry C. ""Hank"" Johnson, Jr.",J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,hankjohnson,https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Rep. Hank Johnson (GA-04), Chairman of the Subcommittee on Courts, Intellectual Property and the Internet, today announced he introduced The Open Courts Act of 2021, which would modernize and secure the federal judiciary's court records system (called CM/ECF) and make federal court records freely available to the public.

The new system will provide a centralized, user-oriented, and easily searchable site to file and read court records and monitor docket activity. The bill includes a process to cover the costs of these long-overdue reforms without requiring new appropriations while also eliminating a paywall that has long shielded federal court filings from public view (PACER). Currently, the judiciary charges users 10 cents for every search of its online record repository and another 10 cents per page to download any court records once they have been located, resulting in over $145 million in annual costs to PACER users.

Rep. Darrell Issa (CA-50) co-introduced the bill, which is companion legislation to a bill introduced in the Senate by Sens. Rob Portman (R-OH) and Ron Wyden (D-OR) earlier this year.

""Modernizing and streamlining the federal courts' records system and eliminating the PACER paywall is long overdue,"" said Congressman Johnson. ""The Open Courts Act levels the playing field for the public and the press by making court records as widely available as possible. How much money you have should not dictate your access to justice. This bill is bipartisan, bicameral, commonsense good government at its best.""

""Public court records belong to the public – and finding and acquiring them should be both easy and affordable,"" said Congressman Issa. ""The truth is, the PACER system is outdated and impractical, and it creates unjustified burdens for too many Americans. Reform is long overdue.""

The Open Courts Act would:

• Require United States Courts to consolidate all federal court records into one integrated system for all 94 district courts and 13 circuit courts of appeals.

• Provide for the creation of a modernized, user-oriented, secure, and flexible court-record system responsive to the needs of all stakeholders.

• Make court records freely available to the public by eliminating the PACER paywall and ensure the public can easily search for, access, and download court records through a streamlined, updated user interface.

• Provide funding for making PACER free of charge without new appropriations.

A section-by-section analysis of the bill can be found HERE.

The bill can be found HERE.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-johnsons-statement-republican-filibuster-john-r-lewis-voting-rights,Rep. Johnson's Statement on Republican Filibuster of the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act,2021-11-04,2021,2021-11,Democrat,House,GA,"Henry C. ""Hank"" Johnson, Jr.",J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,hankjohnson,https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman Hank Johnson, Chairman of the Judiciary Subcommittee on Courts, Intellectual Property and the Internet, issued the following statement after Senate Republicans blocked the John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act from advancing in the Senate:

""Nothing is more fundamental in our democracy than the right to vote. The John R. Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act protects that precious right to vote for all Americans. Once again it appears Senate Republicans -- and their statehouse counterparts -- continue to play Russian roulette with our democracy by blocking this critical legislation and enacting some of the most restrictive voting laws around the country.

""My friend, colleague and mentor Congressman Lewis bled for our right to vote. But with an activist Supreme Court's decisions in Shelby County v. Holder and Brnovich v. DNC and the perpetuation of Jim Crow 2.0 voter suppression laws across the nation, we find ourselves on the precipice of becoming a democracy in name only.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://austinscott.house.gov/press-releases?ID=8A9D032F-252C-436A-B746-B6E1AF7E7AF8,"Scott, Bishop Urge FEMA to Make Emergency Rural Telecom Equipment Eligible for Hazard Mitigation Funds",2021-11-03,2021,2021-11,Republican,House,GA,Austin Scott,S001189,austinscott.house.gov,austinscott,https://austinscott.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Yesterday afternoon, Representatives Austin Scott (R-GA-08) and Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (D-GA-02) sent a letter to Deanne Criswell, Administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), urging the agency to allow rural communities to utilize FEMA hazard mitigation grants to upgrade telecommunications equipment that is crucial for public safety efforts during and after natural disasters.

“Representing rural counties across South and Middle Georgia, we have seen a great need for communities to upgrade their communication systems,” wrote the Members. “There has been a vital communication gap in multiple natural disasters over the last several years as our first responders struggle to communicate with other responders in their county and surrounding counties to better serve those in harm’s way. Several of these disasters have in fact had loss of life, in part due to lack of communication ability.”

Hazard mitigation is critical for rural communities to reduce the impact of disasters in the future but upgrading equipment – like sirens and radios – can be extremely expensive and difficult for rural communities. Currently, FEMA does not consider these types of equipment upgrades eligible for their hazard mitigation assistance (HMA) funding.

In their letter, the Members ask for Administrator Criswell to remove “preparedness measures and response equipment” from the list of ineligible activities for HMA funding and include such costs as an eligible activity. This would allow rural communities to utilize existing grant programs to upgrade their telecommunications equipment and bolster their ability to provide life-saving communications during and after natural disasters

A copy of the letter can be found by clicking here. Additionally, text of the letter can be found below.

The Honorable Deanne Criswell

Administrator

Federal Emergency Management Agency

500 C Street, SW, 8th Floor

Washington, DC 20472

November 2, 2021

Dear Administrator Criswell,

We are asking for your consideration to remove “preparedness measures and response equipment” from the list of ineligible activities for hazard mitigation assistance (HMA) funding and include such costs as an eligible activity.

Representing rural counties across South and Middle Georgia, we have seen a great need for communities to upgrade their communication systems. There has been a vital communication gap in multiple natural disasters over the last several years as our first responders struggle to communicate with other responders in their county and surrounding counties to better serve those in harm’s way. Several of these disasters have in fact had loss of life, in part due to lack of communication ability.

As the ongoing pandemic has made clear, the digital divide is real and devastating for our rural residents. Without robust broadband service, they are cut off from the technological developments that enable many of their suburban and urban neighbors to piece back together a semblance of normalcy while working and learning and caring for one another remotely. In addition, the lack of sufficient broadband infrastructure puts these communities at further risk when natural disasters strike, leaving them cut off from emergency services.

As you know, effective and reliable emergency communication is essential for first responders and public safety officials to respond to emergencies and disasters. Unfortunately, the cost for many of our rural counties to upgrade to a P25 800 MHz system for their first responders is not feasible as their budgets are much tighter with a smaller tax base. These same counties have been continuously hit by natural disasters and see the need for HMA funding to be used for this equipment to better serve their constituency. However, currently these radios are listed as an ineligible expense.

In FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Assistance Guidance, FEMA notes that “HMA programs reduce community vulnerability to disasters and their effects, promote individual and community safety and resilience, and promote community vitality after an incident.” Hazard mitigation is critical for our communities to reduce the impact of disasters in the future. P25 communication systems are a key component as they reduce vulnerability to the effects of the disaster and promote safety and resilience, which results in safer communities that are less reliant on external financial assistance. Interoperable communications equipment, including P25 radios, align with FEMA’s goals of the HMA programs.

Therefore, we ask for your consideration to include interoperable communications equipment as an eligible expense for those communities that apply for HMA funding following a natural disaster.

We appreciate your full and fair attention of this request and look forward to working with you.

Sincerely,

Representative Austin Scott

Representative Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/bishop-scott-urge-fema-to-make-emergency-rural-telecom-equipment-eligible-for-hazard-mitigation-funds,"BISHOP, SCOTT URGE FEMA TO MAKE EMERGENCY RURAL TELECOM EQUIPMENT ELIGIBLE FOR HAZARD MITIGATION FUNDS",2021-11-03,2021,2021-11,Democrat,House,GA,"Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.",B000490,bishop.house.gov,bishop,https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Yesterday afternoon, U.S. Representatives Austin Scott (R-GA-08) and Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (D-GA-02) sent a letter to Deanne Criswell, Administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), urging the agency to allow rural communities to utilize FEMA hazard mitigation grants to upgrade telecommunications equipment that is crucial for public safety efforts during and after natural disasters.

""Representing rural counties across South and Middle Georgia, we have seen a great need for communities to upgrade their communication systems,"" wrote the Members. ""There has been a vital communication gap in multiple natural disasters over the last several years as our first responders struggle to communicate with other responders in their county and surrounding counties to better serve those in harm's way. Several of these disasters have in fact had loss of life, in part due to lack of communication ability.""

Hazard mitigation is critical for rural communities to reduce the impact of disasters in the future but upgrading equipment – like sirens and radios – can be extremely expensive and difficult for rural communities. Currently, FEMA does not consider these types of equipment upgrades eligible for their hazard mitigation assistance (HMA) funding.

In their letter, the Members ask for Administrator Criswell to remove ""preparedness measures and response equipment"" from the list of ineligible activities for HMA funding and include such costs as an eligible activity. This would allow rural communities to utilize existing grant programs to upgrade their telecommunications equipment and bolster their ability to provide live-saving communications during and after natural disasters

A copy of the letter can be found by clicking here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-johnsons-bipartisan-fair-act-ends-forced-arbitration-restores,"Rep. Johnson’s Bipartisan FAIR Act That Ends Forced Arbitration & Restores Accountability, Passes Judiciary Committee",2021-11-03,2021,2021-11,Democrat,House,GA,"Henry C. ""Hank"" Johnson, Jr.",J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,hankjohnson,https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Hank Johnson's (GA-04) bipartisan Forced Arbitration Injustice Repeal (FAIR) Act — H.R. 963 — that re-establishes everyday Americans' 7th Amendment right to seek justice and accountability through the court system, passed the House Judiciary Committee.

""My bill would restore fairness to the American justice system by reasserting individuals' right to access the court system,"" said Rep. Johnson. ""The FAIR Act would ensure that men and women contracting with more powerful entities aren't forced into private arbitration, where the bigger party often has the advantage of choosing the arbitrator in an unappealable decision.""

The House bill would eliminate forced arbitration clauses in employment, consumer, and civil rights cases, and allow consumers and workers to agree to arbitration after a dispute occurs. The bill was marked up and voted out of committee. The House bill has more than 200 cosponsors.

""Arbitration clauses have permeated American life in recent decades,"" continued Rep. Johnson. ""They've seeped into our cell phone contracts, our medical paperwork and our employee handbooks with opaque language, written by well-paid corporate attorneys. The clauses are hidden in updated terms and conditions, incorporated into mid-year employee reviews, and implicit in purchase contracts. And they all prevent us from having our day in court. It is time for this to change. I'm in Congress to stand up for the voiceless and the powerless, and this bill, the Forced Arbitration Injustice Repeal Act, or the FAIR Act, is a testament to that. I appreciate my colleagues' support as this bill moves to the full House for a vote.""

Rep. Matt Gaetz (FL-01) is the Republican lead on the legislation.

""The Powerful in America shouldn't be able to escape taxpayer-funded justice in Article III courts,"" said Rep. Gaetz. ""They shouldn't be able to force workers into private-sector dispute resolution slanted in their favor. Most importantly, sexual harassers shouldn't be able to pick their juries in advance. I'm proud to be the Republican lead on the FAIR Act to ensure equal justice for all.""

Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) introduced the companion bill in the Senate.

For the Congressman's full remarks, click HERE.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/johnson-and-meng-issue-joint-statement-upcoming-vote-recommend,Johnson and Meng Issue Joint Statement on Upcoming Vote to Recommend Hepatitis B Vaccines for Adults,2021-11-02,2021,2021-11,Democrat,House,GA,"Henry C. ""Hank"" Johnson, Jr.",J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,hankjohnson,https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Reps. Hank Johnson (D-GA) and Grace Meng (D-NY), Co-Chairs of the Congressional Hepatitis Caucus, issued the following statement on the vote to recommend hepatitis B vaccines for all adults, which is set to be held tomorrow by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices:

""Tomorrow, the CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) will vote on a recommendation to allow hepatitis B vaccinations for all adults in the United States. As co-chairs of the Congressional Hepatitis Caucus, we cannot overstate the importance of this vote.Hepatitis B is a liver infection that can cause cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma, and death in extreme cases. But these are preventable with the vaccine. Up to 2.4 million Americans are currently living with hepatitis B and 65-75% remain undiagnosed.

Science and experience demonstrate vaccines to be a crucial step in complete eradication of certain viruses. Eliminating hepatitis B for the millions of people who suffer and contract it every year would be monumental for our country. Current guidelines state that only people who are at high risk are eligible for the hepatitis B vaccine. However, it is critical for all adults to be vaccinated against hepatitis B.

Our resolution to recognize April 30 as National Adult Hepatitis B Vaccination Awareness Day underscores our dedication to the elimination of hepatitis B.

The U.S. is on the path to eliminating viral hepatitis by 2030. Achieving universal adult hepatitis B vaccinations is a significant step toward reducing health disparities, reducing new infections, and working toward complete elimination of hepatis B.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-johnson-joins-men-cbc-american-cancer-society-prostate-cancer,"Rep. Johnson Joins Men of CBC, American Cancer Society for Prostate Cancer Awareness Campaign",2021-11-02,2021,2021-11,Democrat,House,GA,"Henry C. ""Hank"" Johnson, Jr.",J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,hankjohnson,https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"MEN OF THE CONGRESSIONAL BLACK CAUCUS PARTNER WITH THE AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY FOR THE ""GROW IT OUT"" CAMPAIGN TO RAISE AWARENESS FOR PROSTATE CANCER AMONG BLACK MEN

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the Male members of the Congressional Black Caucus released the following statement announcing a partnership with the American Cancer Society for a month-long campaign to raise awareness for Prostate Cancer in Black men.

""Black men are nearly two times more likely to be diagnosed with—and more than twice as likely to die from – prostate cancer than white men. As a Black man and Member of the Congressional Black Caucus, I'm proud to work alongside the American Cancer Society to raise awareness of this deadly disease and its disproportionate impact,"" said Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04)

Black men are 1.8 times more likely to be diagnosed with—and 2.2 times more likely to die from—Prostate Cancer than white men. Black men are also slightly more likely than white men to be diagnosed with advanced disease. In fact, one in seven Black men will develop Prostate Cancer in their lifetime. Black men may also be harmed by racial bias in preventive care, as they are less likely than white men to be offered the option of having a PSA test, and are more likely than white men to be told that the benefits of the PSA test are uncertain. Additionally, a recent study found that Black men diagnosed with early-stage Prostate Cancer were less likely than white men to receive any type of treatment for that cancer.

These sobering realizations spurred the Male members of the CBC into action, to grow their beards out for the month of November and to raise awareness for Prostate Cancer.

""As Congress works to improve health equity, I'm proud to join my brothers in the Congressional Black Caucus to raise awareness about the disproportionate toll of prostate cancer on Black men,"" said Congressman Steven Horsford (NV-04). ""Black men are more than twice as likely to die from prostate cancer, but less likely to receive the screenings and treatment we need to stay healthy. I encourage all men to talk to their doctor and make a joint decision on when prostate cancer screening will make sense for them. Early detection and treatment save lives.""

""Prostate cancer steals far too many lives every year, killing Black men at more than twice the rate of our white counterparts,"" said Congressman Mondaire Jones (NY-17). ""Ending this crisis starts with raising awareness, which is why, this November, I'm joining my CBC colleagues in urging Black men to talk to their doctors about prostate cancer screening. Together, we are raising awareness and helping ensure everyone has the resources and information they need to keep themselves and their loved ones healthy.""

""Prostate cancer has devastated so many families, and it's a public health inequity that Black men are more likely to be diagnosed with or die from this disease than white counterparts,"" said Congressman Troy A. Carter Sr. (LA-02) ""I am proud to join my CBC colleagues this month to participate in the ‘Grow it Out' and ‘I pledge' campaigns to help raise awareness for screenings, prevention and research.""

""Black Americans face implicit racial bias in our health care system - from diagnosis to treatment and medical outcomes. Black men are more likely to be diagnosed with, and die from prostate cancer but less likely to be tested. We can change this,"" said Congressman Anthony Brown (MD-04). ""By raising awareness for routine Prostate Cancer checks and treatment as part of a healthy life and through targeted investments and health care resources to minority communities we can begin to tear down these barriers and save lives.""

""Prostate cancer is not only a health issue but also a race issue. Black men are more likely to be diagnosed and more likely to die from prostate cancer than our white counterparts. I urge my brothers to make sure they get screened for prostate cancer this month – early detection is key,"" said Congressman Gregory W. Meeks (NY-05).

""Prostate cancer has been a silent killer of Black men for far too long. Black men are dying from prostate cancer at higher rates, which means we have to be proactive, instead of reactive, when combatting this disease,"" said Majority Whip James E. Clyburn (SC-06). ""Cancer doesn't discriminate, and neither should our health care system. We cannot allow race to continue to be a barrier disproportionately keeping one group of people from receiving the information and support needed to receive preventative care. I applaud my colleagues of the CBC for taking action and raising awareness of such an unyielding disease that has put our fathers, sons, brothers, uncles, and communities at risk.""

""Prostate Cancer death rates in Black men are double those of every other racial/ethnic group, and those higher incidence and mortality rates are exceptionally concerning. Black men should consult their provider to make an informed decision about designing the screening plan that is right for them, which should include consideration of family history and any known genetic risk of cancer,"" said Dr. Karen E. Knudsen, CEO of the American Cancer Society and American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network. ""Additional research, including clinical trials on the risk, screening, diagnosis, and treatment of Prostate Cancer must be more inclusive of Black men to reduce these disparities. We are grateful to the Congressional Black Caucus for shining a light on this important issue and raising funds for the American Cancer Society so critical work to address disparities in the Black community can continue.""

""I am proud the men of our caucus have taken this opportunity to share critical information and raise awareness for this deadly disease. Black men are more likely to develop Prostate Cancer than men from any other racial group. They are also more likely to develop aggressive forms of Prostate Cancer and die from this disease. Prostate Cancer can remain symptomless for a long time, so campaigns to raise awareness and encourage early screening are vital. Early detection is critical to surviving Prostate Cancer,"" said Congressional Black Caucus Chairwoman Joyce Beatty. ""Our Caucus continues to feel the loss of Congressmen Alcee Hastings, John Lewis due to the prevalence of Cancer. In fact, 45.2 percent of the men of the Congressional Black Caucus fall between 55 and 69, making them the target demographic for Prostate Cancer screening. I support the #GrowItOut Campaign and look forward to the lives we will save and the beards that will grow.""

Take the pledge.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:30:49Z
https://austinscott.house.gov/press-releases?ID=B3FAF90D-7A5C-4358-841F-3C3C38A0B2B3,"Scott, McGovern Lead Letter to USDA, USAID in Push to Provide More RUTFs to Combat Global Child Hunger",2021-10-28,2021,2021-10,Republican,House,GA,Austin Scott,S001189,austinscott.house.gov,austinscott,https://austinscott.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Representatives Austin Scott (R-GA-08) and Jim McGovern (D-MA-02) led a letter to Tom Vilsack, Secretary of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), and Samantha Power, Administrator of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), in support of ready-to-use therapeutic food (RUTF) production as child malnutrition rates rise globally.

“There is a proven, effective intervention for addressing severe malnutrition, or wasting – ready-to-use therapeutic foods. These low-cost packets of RUTF can bring a child on the brink of death back to life in a matter of weeks, yet less than 20% of the nearly 50 million kids in need receive this treatment,” wrote the Members. “The distribution of RUTF also continues the decades-long record of U.S. farmers and ranchers helping to feed the world, as each packet of RUTF includes agricultural inputs – peanuts, canola oil, milk, sugar and more – from producers throughout the United States.”

RUTF is used to help millions of children threatened by malnutrition worldwide. The peanut-based paste is rich in vitamins and minerals, doesn't require refrigeration, can stay fresh for up to two years, and does not require mixing with potentially contaminated water.

Like many products, RUTF has suffered from supply chain issues due to the COVID-19 pandemic, resulting in a shortage and severely impacting malnourished children around the world. In today’s letter, the Members request data on RUTF usage and push for USDA and USAID to provide more RUTFs to combat global hunger around the world.

Joining Reps. Scott and McGovern on today’s letter include U.S. Representatives Sanford Bishop (D-GA-02), Drew Ferguson (R-GA-03), Mike Rogers (R-AL-03), Dina Titus (D-NV-01), Jerry Carl (R-AL-01), Rick Allen (R-GA-12), Tracey Mann (R-KS-01), Ann McLane Kuster (D-NH-02), Raúl Grijalva (D-AZ-03), Rick Crawford (R-AR-01), Juan Vargas (D-CA-51), Terri Sewell (D-AL-07), Bobby Rush (D-IL-01), Grace Meng (D-NY-06), Dwight Evans (D-PA-03), Eddie Bernice Johnson (D-TX-30), Barry Moore (R-AL-02), Gwen Moore (D-WI-04), Rodney Davis (R-IL-13), Alma Adams (D-NC-12), Jahana Hayes (D-CT-05), Susan Wild (D-PA-07), and Ed Case (D-HI-01).

Below is the text of the letter. It can also be found here.

The Honorable Thomas J. Vilsack The Honorable Samantha Power

Secretary Administrator

U.S. Department of Agriculture U.S. Agency for International Development

1400 Independence Avenue SW 1300 Pennsylvania Avenue NW

Washington, D.C. 20250 Washington, D.C. 20004

October 28, 2021

Dear Secretary Vilsack and Administrator Power:

As the world faces a global health crisis due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we are writing to bring your attention to a secondary, but no less important crisis -- child wasting and malnutrition. As Members of Congress who have always championed the U.S. Government’s leadership in global food security and malnutrition efforts around the world, we believe there is an urgent need for the U.S. to demonstrate leadership to combat child wasting by increasing the procurement and distribution of Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food (RUTF) as a primary intervention.

In 2018, before the COVID-19 pandemic, 5.3 million children under the age of 5 died and severe malnutrition -- or wasting -- was responsible for nearly 50 percent or 2.4 million of these deaths. As reported in The Lancet, one of the world’s leading medical journals, experts predict that wasting among children could rise by 14.3 percent worldwide if we do not act now. This would translate to an estimated additional 6.7 million wasted children during the first 12 months of the pandemic and more than 10,000 additional child deaths per month during this same period. Those children who do survive are at risk of impaired brain development, lower intelligence quotient, weakened immune systems, and greater risk of serious diseases.

A rise in malnutrition is inevitable as the economic and health crisis becomes a global hunger crisis, and the secondary impacts threaten care services for mothers as well as the continuation of regular health and nutrition programs for children. This increase in malnourished women and children will leave millions of children underweight, weak and vulnerable to infections and preventable diseases. Severely malnourished children are up to twelve times more likely to die of preventable diseases and it leaves children particularly at risk of pneumonia, one of the deadliest complications caused by COVID-19. Because we will undoubtedly be faced with millions of malnourished, vulnerable children, COVID-19 and its secondary impacts present an immediate, urgent danger to global child survival.

There is a proven, effective intervention for addressing severe malnutrition, or wasting -- ready-to-use therapeutic foods (RUTF). These low-cost packets of RUTF can bring a child on the brink of death back to life in a matter of weeks, yet less than 20% of the nearly 50 million kids in need receive this treatment. The distribution of RUTF also continues the decades-long record of U.S. farmers and ranchers helping to feed the world, as each packet of RUTF includes agricultural inputs--peanuts, canola oil, milk, sugar and more--from producers throughout the United States.

As the impacts of COVID-19 remain to be fully realized, we believe the U.S. must increase its investment in prevention and treatment of wasting by scaling up RUTF procurement and distribution. In order to do this, we must have a clear picture of what the U.S. investment in RUTF procurement and distribution is across U.S. agencies. Therefore, we ask that both USDA and USAID provide us with baseline assessments of RUTF procurement and distribution pre-COVID and in response to COVID-19.

With this information, we can ensure that treatment and prevention for child wasting is prioritized. Specifically, we can ensure that our nutrition programs have sufficient funding and are coordinated efficiently to reach the most vulnerable children. By providing this baseline assessment, we can work together to ensure that the U.S. Government and American agriculture are leaders in combating child wasting and ultimately ending preventable, treatable childhood deaths globally.

Sincerely,",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=47E95C95-140D-43D0-B8EB-E8172B70950D,Rep. Lucy McBath Cosponsors VICTIM Act,2021-10-28,2021,2021-10,Democrat,House,GA,Lucy McBath,M001208,mcbath.house.gov,mcbath,https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Rep. Lucy McBath (GA-06) signed on as an original cosponsor to the Violent Incident Clearance and Technological Investigative Methods (VICTIM) Act , a bill introduced today by Rep. Val Demings (FL-10), a former 27-year police officer and Chief of the Orlando Police Department. The legislation would establish a Department of Justice grant program to hire, train, and retain detectives and victim services personnel to investigate shootings and support victims. The legislation has strong support from professional law enforcement researchers and organizations (see quotes below). Joining McBath as original co-sponsors are Reps. Dwight Evans (PA-03), Tom O'Halleran (AZ-01), Robin Kelly (IL-02), and Cindy Axne (IA-03).

“We must ensure our law enforcement have the tools they need to solve violent crime,” said Rep. McBath. “I am proud to join Rep. Demings to introduce a bill that will help hire detectives, train personnel, and address the needs of victims and family members as we continue our work to keep communities safe.”

“Real life isn’t like CSI: Miami. I saw as a law enforcement officer, detective, and chief of police that gun crimes are oftentimes difficult to investigate and solve,” said Rep. Demings. “Simply put, many agencies lack the resources they need to bring justice to these cases and closure for families. Half of gun murders in the United States go unsolved, and victims are often left with no justice and little support. This legislation would inject critical new funding into America’s law enforcement agencies to hire and train detectives and specialists specifically committed to investigate unsolved crimes, comfort victims, and bring the guilty to justice.

“I vividly recall as a law enforcement officer standing over the bodies of young Floridians who had been victims of gun crimes, knowing that their families would soon receive devastating news. Today, the murder rate is rising, and more and more cases go unsolved. Unsolved gun crimes are unacceptable for the victims and their families, and leaving violent criminals on the streets is unacceptable for the communities we are trying to protect. We can do better, and this legislation will give our law enforcement agencies the resources they need to track down violent criminals and keep Floridians safe.”

“Helping our state and local police solve more fatal and non-fatal shooting cases would be a huge win for public safety in Philadelphia and across the country – district attorneys can’t bring cases that don’t reach them, so this would help make our neighborhoods safer,” said Rep. Evans. “As someone who has pushed for help for victims of gun violence, I’m also very pleased that this bill would provide victims and family members with mental health resources and assistance with shelter, wage, and relocation costs. I’m proud to co-lead this much-needed legislation with Rep. Demings – her long experience in law enforcement has been so vital in Congress.”

“As a young officer working in Chicago, I had to knock on the doors of too many mothers and tell them their child had been lost to an act of senseless violence,” said Rep. O’Halleran. “Through targeted funding increases for our hardworking local and tribal police departments, this bill will help to hire, train, and keep good detectives and victim services workers to better provide the needed resources to catch criminals. In short, our legislation will help bring closure to families and justice to courtrooms.”

“Gun violence and homicide rates are on the rise, but the percentage of cases solved by law enforcement agencies is falling,” said Rep. Kelly. “Communities of color are disproportionately represented in cases that go unsolved, which is unjust and diminishes trust between communities of color and the police. We must ensure that law enforcement agencies have the resources they need to solve crimes and bring justice to victims and their families. Additionally, we need to do more to support victims and their families as they rebuild their lives after being impacted by gun violence. The VICTIM Act will do just that by providing victims and family members with mental health resources and assistance with shelter, lost wages and relocation costs. I am proud to be introducing this legislation with Rep. Demings, a former police chief, to help law enforcement solve crimes and improve outcomes for victims.”

“Last year, we saw an increase in homicides and gun-related crime all across the U.S. – including in Iowa,” said Rep. Axne. “In fact, Iowa saw an 80% jump in homicides in 2020 – a statistic that should frankly stop any Iowan in their tracks. I know our police departments are working around the clock to solve these crimes, and it’s critical that they have the resources they need to keep our communities safe and support the families affected. Our legislation, the VICTIM Act, would directly help our law enforcement improve public safety while also helping victims and their families.”

“The VICTIM Act is an example of criminal justice reform that should appeal to people all over the political spectrum,” said Greg Newburn, Director of Criminal Justice for the Niskanen Center. “The VICTIM Act will help law enforcement deliver justice, and help victims rebuild their lives after tragedy. We are excited to see a common-sense response to the entrenched violence that threatens so many American communities. The VICTIM Act is a smart and reasonable solution to this difficult problem, and will help to make our communities more safe through important investments in law enforcement, and we're proud to work with Rep. Demings on this important investment in safety.""

“This bill provides crucial support for law enforcement efforts to provide justice for victims and solve unclosed cases,” said Jim Burch, President of the National Police Foundation. “Rep. Demings’ legislation is supported by science and best practice. The National Police Foundation applauds Congresswoman Demings’ leadership and support for evidence-based best practices that will keep the public safe and reduce crime.”

“The National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives (NOBLE) applauds the continued efforts of Congresswoman Val Demings in supporting and strengthening the law enforcement profession,” said Frederick L. Thomas, National President of The National Organization of Black Law Enforcement Executives. “It is our opinion that this legislation will help increase the clearance rates of cases throughout the nation.”

“Nearly every major city in America is experiencing a rise in violent crime,” said Chief Jeri Williams, President of the Major Cities Chiefs Association. “The VICTIM Act will help law enforcement agencies address staffing challenges, enhance investigative and evidence processing capabilities and technology, and provide services to victims and their families. The MCCA is proud to support this bill and thanks Rep. Demings for her continued leadership and support for our brave law enforcement officers.”

“Our nation’s cities and communities are experiencing a historic rise in violent crime, “said Bill Johnson, Executive Director of the National Association of Police Organizations. “Murders and non-fatal shootings are going unresolved at higher rates as law enforcement agencies do not have the officers and resources to dedicate to improving clearance rates for these horrendous crimes. The VICTIM Act will help address this issue by supplying much needed grant funding to agencies to fill, replenish, and train their detective and homicide personnel. Through this legislation, law enforcement will be able to focus on solving these violent crimes that have such a detrimental impact on our communities and improve the services that they render to victims. We support the VICTIM Act and thank Congresswoman Demings for her leadership on this issue.”

“FBI statistics show that in 2020, violent crime clearance rates, particularly for fatal and nonfatal shootings, fell to historic lows,” said Thomas Abt, Chair of its Violent Crime Working Group for the Council on Criminal Justice. “The human, social, and economic toll of these unsolved crimes is devastating. We must increase clearance rates to build public trust in law enforcement and bring justice to families and communities.”

In 2020, the United States saw the biggest rise in murder since the start of national record-keeping in 1960. 21,570 people were murdered in the United States in 2020—the most since 1995—a 29.4% increase over 2019. Additionally, the FBI estimates that 77% of all murders in the United States in 2020 were via firearms. That is the highest share on record and the most of any year on record except 1993. At the same time that the murder rate rose, the clearance rate for murders fell significantly, from 61.4% in 2019, to 54.4% in 2020. In cities with a population above 250,000, the rate was even more dramatic, falling from 57.6% in 2019 to 47.3% in 2020.

The VICTIM Act would establish a grant program at the Department of Justice (DOJ) to provide resources to State, Tribal, and local law enforcement agencies to assist them improve their clearance rates for homicides and non-fatal shootings. Specifically, the grants provided by the VICTIM Act would be used to:

hire and retain detectives to investigate homicide and non-fatal shootings;

acquire resources for processing evidence, including the hiring of additional personnel;

hire personnel trained to analyze criminal intelligence and crime trends;

train detectives and evidence processing personnel in effective procedures and techniques; and

ensure victim services are sufficiently staffed, funded, and trained.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=53A6B24C-1DD2-4EBD-9203-8B4085802239,Legislation Led by McBath to Enact Federal “Red Flag” Laws Passes House Committee,2021-10-27,2021,2021-10,Democrat,House,GA,Lucy McBath,M001208,mcbath.house.gov,mcbath,https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Today, Rep. Lucy McBath (GA-06) and the House Judiciary Committee passed H.R. 2377, the Federal Extreme Risk Protection Order Act. McBath is the lead sponsor of the bill, which would allow family members and law enforcement to obtain an extreme risk protection order to temporarily remove access to firearms for those who are deemed a danger to themselves or to others by a federal court. Nineteen states and the District of Columbia currently have extreme risk protection orders in place, and this legislation would set a national standard to save lives. McBath delivered remarks in favor of her bill at the start of the hearing.

“Nearly nine years ago, I lost my son Jordan to gun violence. He was just 17 years old. I dreamed of one day seeing him walk across the stage at his high school graduation, or walk down the aisle at his wedding,” said McBath. “I received the call that far too many families in our nation receive, and every day have felt a pain that will never fade. Far too many parents know exactly that pain. I turned that pain into action, calling for change to prevent another parent from losing their child to gun violence. It is our responsibility to prevent this suffering, to bring an end to this constant heartbreak. With this bill and its passage today, we act to help those in crisis. We act to empower law enforcement. We act to prevent the vigils for the loved ones we’ve lost.”

Extreme risk laws empower loved ones or law enforcement to intervene and temporarily prevent someone in crisis from accessing firearms. These laws, sometimes referred to as “red flag” laws, can help de-escalate emergency situations. They are a proven way to intervene before an incident of gun violence—such as a firearm suicide or mass shooting—occurs and takes more lives.

According to an Everytown report, in 51 percent of mass shootings from 2009 to 2017, the attacker exhibited warning signs before the shooting. For example, before killing six people in Isla Vista, California in May 2014, the shooter made homicidal and suicidal threats, and his parents alerted law enforcement. But there was nothing they could legally do to remove his firearms. On suicide prevention, research shows that access to a firearm triples one’s risk of death by suicide. Across all suicide attempts not involving a firearm, 4 percent result in death. But for gun suicide, those statistics are flipped: Approximately 90 percent of gun suicide attempts end in death. The vast majority of survivors of a suicide attempt do not go on to die by suicide.

In April of this year, McBath stood with President Joe Biden at a Rose Garden announcement about red flag laws. Immediately following the White House event, McBath introduced H.R. 2377.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-announces-american-rescue-plan-funds-for-albany-museum,CONGRESSMAN BISHOP ANNOUNCES AMERICAN RESCUE PLAN FUNDS FOR ALBANY MUSEUM,2021-10-26,2021,2021-10,Democrat,House,GA,"Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.",B000490,bishop.house.gov,bishop,https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) announced a $10,695 grant award through the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) for the Albany Museum of Art (AMA). The grant is made possible by the American Rescue Plan as part of its effort to support the role of museums and libraries in responding to the coronavirus pandemic. The funds will support an exhibit focusing on art and medicine with the goal of improving patient care.

""Our communities have felt the strain of COVID-19 and many are part of our road to recovery. In passing the American Rescue Plan, Congress recognized that we are still in the middle of our fight against this pandemic. This emergency assistance is vital to community centers which have made great sacrifices in the interest of public safety,"" said Congressman Bishop. ""Time and again we see how the American Rescue Plan has supported individuals and institutions in creating opportunities for community groups to find innovative solutions to this public health crisis.""

""The AMA is grateful for this meaningful support from the IMLS that enables us to launch the Art of Medicine program collaboration with Phoebe Putney Health System. We are looking forward to providing scenarios in which doctors and other health professionals can engage the arts and explore new and creative ways to communicate on deeper levels with their patients. This is another example of how art and medical science can be allies to enhance the quality of patient care,"" said Albany Museum of Art Executive Director Andrew J. Wulf, Ph.D.

In March, Congress passed the American Rescue Plan. The funds have helped individuals, community organizations, and local governments across the country and their positive impact has been frequently touted by Republican Members of Congress, though none voted for the bill.

The Albany Museum of Art in Georgia will host programming to help physicians understand alternative viewpoints and engage in deeper emotional processing to improve patient care. Based on another program in which physician participants reported improved insight, empathy, and ability to reflect in their clinical work, this initiative combines the Balint method of ""doctor-patient relationship groups"" with an art analysis technique called Visual Thinking Strategies.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-highlights-more-than-1-million-in-federal-funds-to-help-columbus-area-youth,CONGRESSMAN BISHOP HIGHLIGHTS MORE THAN $1 MILLION IN FEDERAL FUNDS TO HELP COLUMBUS AREA YOUTH,2021-10-26,2021,2021-10,Democrat,House,GA,"Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.",B000490,bishop.house.gov,bishop,https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) is pleased to announce a grant awarded to Beginning New Outreach, a Columbus, Georgia non-profit, to help provide mentoring for youth affected by the opioid crisis and drug abuse. The $622,903 grant is being awarded through the U.S. Department of Justice's Mentoring for Youth Affected by the Opioid Crisis and Drug Addiction program, which serves to reduce substance abuse, juvenile delinquency, and other negative outcomes for young people. Beginning New Outreach also was awarded a $421,145 grant by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services at the end of September for sexual risk avoidance education (SRAE).

""Our children face many obstacles as they navigate their youth into adulthood. Having strong community support programs helps ensure they have the information and resources needed to make healthy choices and increase their likelihood for success into adulthood,"" said Congressman Bishop. ""These federal funds are an important investment in the well-being of our communities, which is why it is important that Congress continues to robustly fund them in the annual appropriations process.""

""Beginning New Outreach is excited about the opportunity to serve the youth and families in this community! We greatly appreciate all of the support and assistance that has been provided to us and this district by Congressman Sanford Bishop,"" said TreNise Holloway, CEO of Beginning New Outreach.

The Mentoring Opioid Affected Youth Grant will help Beginning New Outreach provide ongoing mentoring for approximately 200 youth annually. They will target youth, ages 11-17, who are currently abusing or addicted to drugs, at risk for abusing, or have family members who abuse drugs. With the support of this grant, Beginning New Outreach will provide Substance Abuse Prevention Program curriculum paired with Positive Youth Development and mentor relationships. The program will help participants voluntarily refrain from use of illegal substances (specifically opioid related substances), as well as promote emotional well-being and healthy transitions to adulthood.

Beginning New Outreach is using the SRAE Grant to target at-risk youth, ages 10 -18, living in Muscogee, Talbot and Quitman Counties. The project will deliver evidence-based sexual risk avoidance education curriculum as well as positive youth development topics to help participants voluntarily refrain from non-marital sexual activity, prevent teen pregnancy and sexually-transmitted infections, and make healthy transitions to adulthood.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://clyde.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=33,Rep. Clyde Introduces Legislation to Improve Rural Broadband Mapping for FCC Grant Funding,2021-10-26,2021,2021-10,Republican,House,GA,Andrew S. Clyde,C001116,clyde.house.gov,clyde,https://clyde.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27,scraper,"Earlier this month, Congressman Andrew Clyde (GA-09) introduced H.R. 5512, the “Reviewing and Updating Regional And Local (RURAL) Broadband Mapping Act,” to allow federal broadband infrastructure funds to be more accurately dispersed to unserved and underserved areas in states that have published more accurate broadband deployment maps than the ones produced by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Specifically, grant applicants would be able to substitute on Form 477 their state’s broadband deployment mapping data in lieu of the FCC’s mapping data, so long as the FCC determines the data from the state is superior to the Commission’s outdated broadband mapping data.

“It’s completely unacceptable that the FCC’s outdated mapping data often leads to businesses having their grant applications denied at no fault of their own,” said Rep. Clyde. “Our rural areas are no strangers to broadband obstacles, but this avoidable roadblock is preventing essential broadband expansion in the communities that need it most. While we wait for updated federal mapping, my legislation helps bridge the divide by providing businesses the opportunity to use a state-produced broadband distribution map. We must continue to seek solutions for securing reliable broadband internet access and benefits for rural Americans.”

Background:

Last year, President Trump signed the Broadband DATA Act into law, which requires the FCC to improve the accuracy of its broadband availability map for use in grant applications for rural areas. However, this process will take some time to develop and rural communities across our country, including in North Georgia, desperately need an interim solution.

According to a recent study conducted by BroadbandNow Research, it is estimated that the FCC’s data has an observed over-reporting error rate of approximately 21% across the United States, and in total, 42 million Americans are estimated to not have the ability to purchase broadband internet. Broadband infrastructure woes have plagued rural communities across the country for far too long, and unfortunately, those woes were only exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and are now being strung out by the FCC’s inaction.

The RURAL Broadband Mapping Act offers a common-sense, temporary solution that is much-needed as businesses, especially small internet service providers, in rural areas cannot continue to wait around on the FCC to issue new maps so they can better serve their communities.

Georgia has already developed and released a modernized state-level broadband availability map. If H.R. 5512 were to be enacted into law, broadband internet service providers in Georgia, and other states that have similarly produced their own distribution maps, would be able to use their state's more granular maps in lieu of the FCC’s data that has observed over-reporting error rates.

Full text of H.R. 5512 can be found HERE.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/chairman-johnsons-statement-kathi-vidals-uspto-director-nomination,Chairman Johnson’s Statement on Kathi Vidal’s USPTO Director Nomination,2021-10-26,2021,2021-10,Democrat,House,GA,"Henry C. ""Hank"" Johnson, Jr.",J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,hankjohnson,https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04), chairman of the Judiciary Subcommittee on Courts, Intellectual property & the Internet, released the following statement on President Joe Biden nominating Kathi Vidal as Undersecretary for Intellectual Property & Director of the U.S. Patent & Trade Office:

""I want to congratulate Kathi Vidal for her nomination to Undersecretary for Intellectual Property & Director of U.S. Patent & Trade Office. With a background in mathematical physics, programming and a degree in electrical engineering — and careers in engineering and patent litigation — Kathi will bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to this critical position. Congratulations to President Biden for nominating such an accomplished, experienced, and well-balanced professional to this key post, and I look forward to working with her to ensure a strong United States patent system that promotes job creation, economic competitiveness and protects national security.""

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=6A63F649-BCF3-4550-A493-0AC93B843828,"Bipartisan Family Violence Prevention Bill, Led by McBath, Passes House of Representatives",2021-10-26,2021,2021-10,Democrat,House,GA,Lucy McBath,M001208,mcbath.house.gov,mcbath,https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, the Family Violence Prevention and Services Improvement Act (FVPSA), led by Rep. Lucy McBath (D-GA-06), passed the House of Representatives. The bipartisan bill reauthorizes and expands funding for programs focused on protecting survivors and preventing family and domestic violence. It is the only federal funding source under the Department of Health and Human Services dedicated to providing domestic violence prevention services.

McBath spoke on the House floor in support of her bill, originally cosponsored by Representatives Gwen Moore (D-WI-04), Don Young (R-AK-At Large), and John Katko (R-NY-24). It passed with bipartisan support.

“The anguish of far too many survivors of domestic violence during this pandemic has been a painful and unshakeable reminder of our fundamental need to put an end to it,” said McBath. “I am proud we were able to pass legislation that funds shelters, state domestic violence coalitions, a national domestic violence hotline, and national resource centers— this bill helps provide survivors a way up, a way out, and a way forward.”

The Family Violence Prevention and Services Improvement Act, H.R. 2119, expands resources for survivors and initiatives to end domestic violence by:

Increasing the funding authorization level to $270 million to respond to very low per-program funding levels and provide access to FVPSA funds for programs not currently funded.

Expanding support for and access to culturally-specific programs.

Culturally-specific organizations are better equipped to address the complex, multi-layered challenges facing victims from racial and ethnic minority populations as they seek services and protections from abuse.

Culturally-specific programs often have challenges accessing FVPSA funding at the state and local levels due to the limited funding available and robust competition. This bill authorizes a new culturally-specific program to address these needs and incorporates related funding into the formula itself.

Strengthening the capacity of Indian Tribes to exercise their sovereign authority to more fully respond to domestic violence in their communities and authorizes funding for tribal coalitions and the Alaska Native Women’s Resource Center.

Meaningfully investing in prevention. Brings evidence-informed, community-based prevention initiatives to more communities.

Strengthening and updating the National Domestic Violence Hotline and hotline services for underrepresented populations, including American Indians, Alaskan Natives and Deaf victims of domestic and dating violence.

Creating a new underserved populations grant program.

The lack of resources and severity of violence is often heightened for survivors living at the margins, such as those living in rural communities, individuals with disabilities, older adults, those identifying with faith-based communities, youth and others. These underserved populations are often reluctant to seek assistance, and when they do, they frequently look for services and support in their immediate communities. This bill creates a grant program for family centers, youth centers, senior centers, community-based organizations or vocational organizations to meet the needs of these survivors.

Continuing to support national technical assistance (TA) centers, including the Alaskan Native Tribal Resource Center on Domestic Violence, and their work to develop effective policy, practice, research and cross-system collaborations.

Updating provisions and definitions to ensure access to services for all survivors, better align with related programs and reflect evolving practices in order to provide uniform guidance to those working to end domestic violence.

Updates language to reflect current practices and provide a reference to other statutes to ensure common understanding across different federal programs.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=05A67763-88EB-46CA-9B7B-D5643DBB9F49,"McBath, Raskin, Upton, Kim Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Incentivize Pet Food Donation, Support Animal Shelters",2021-10-22,2021,2021-10,Democrat,House,GA,Lucy McBath,M001208,mcbath.house.gov,mcbath,https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Representative Lucy McBath (GA-06) joined Representative Jamie Raskin (MD-08), a member of the Congressional Animal Protection Caucus, and Representatives Fred Upton (MI-06) and Young Kim (CA-39) to introduce the bipartisan Bring Animals Relief and Kibble (BARK) Act, to provide liability protections for pet suppliers donating food and supplies to animal shelters. By eliminating a current donation deterrent, the BARK Act would help recover millions of pounds of food waste for animal shelters in need.

“While the last year and half saw increased pet adoption activity nationwide, it also revealed a critical need to bolster pet food supplies for these animal shelters,” said Rep. McBath. “In the face of COVID-related challenges, the BARK Act will eliminate barriers, mitigate waste, and direct surplus pet food to shelters in need. I am proud to support bipartisan legislation that will nurture America’s shelter animals as they await adoption to their forever homes.”

“No shelter pet should go hungry, especially not when pet stores nationwide are throwing away surplus food,” said Rep. Raskin. “We can empower pet stores to instead donate to animal shelters by removing bureaucratic disincentives. The BARK Act will give pet stores the same protections that grocery stores and markets already have when donating to food banks. This is a commonsense, bipartisan way to increase efficiency, reduce waste and promote charity for animals. I’m thankful to Reps. Upton, McBath and Kim for joining me in this effort.”

“Animal shelters are a real lifeline for the tens of thousands of dogs, cats, birds, and other pets that would otherwise have no home,” said Rep. Upton. “During the COVID pandemic, these shelters faced major food shortages – particularly as donations plummeted due to virus-related restrictions – but other reforms must be made to shore up pet food supplies. That’s why I’m proud to support this bipartisan legislation that will lessen restrictions on crucial donations, easily allow folks to deliver pet food to shelters, and benefit animals nationwide.”

“Nearly 8 million animals currently in shelters are struggling due to increased food shortages during the COVID-19 pandemic. At the same time, millions of pounds of useable pet supplies are wasted each year that could be going to animals in need,” said Rep. Kim. “I’m glad to help lead this commonsense, bipartisan effort to reduce waste in landfills and support animal shelters in need.”

“As the COVID-19 pandemic has revealed, there is a tremendous need for innovative, flexible and resilient supply chains. For community animal shelters and rescues located across the country, that includes critical resources like pet food,” said Katie Kraska, director of federal legislation for the ASPCA. “The ASPCA applauds Rep. Jamie Raskin and the bipartisan leadership team for introducing the BARK Act to create more options for commercial pet food donations for agencies that care for dogs, cats, and other vulnerable animals in need.”

“Some animal shelters are juggling finances to ensure rescued cats and dogs have all they need to thrive and find their permanent homes. We applaud Representatives Raskin, Kim, McBath and Upton for sponsoring the BARK Act to encourage pet stores to donate food and supplies to shelters to help those animals to be adopted,” said Sara Amundson, President of the Humane Society Legislative Fund. “Americans love their pets and this will help all of them to have a fighting chance at a forever family.”

“The Animal Welfare Institute is grateful to Reps. Raskin, Kim, McBath, and Upton for acting so quickly to respond to a genuine crisis for animal shelters,” said Nancy Blaney, Director of Government Affairs at the Animal Welfare Institute. “By removing a barrier to donations of surplus pet supplies from pet stores, the BARK Act will make it easier for shelters to continue their important work of caring for animals and helping them to find their forever homes.”

“Thank you, Representatives Raskin, Kim, McBath and Upton for sponsoring the much-needed BARK Act, encouraging pet stores to donate food and supplies to shelters in need,” said Julie Castle, CEO of Best Friends Animal Society. “This infusion of resources means budget strapped shelters can divert those dollars to other critical lifesaving programs. Every animal deserves a second chance at life when entering a shelter, and the BARK Act will make that dream a closer reality.""

Every year, pet stores throw away tons of expired pet food instead of donating to animal shelters out of fear that they can be held legally liable by the shelters. And in recent months, animal shelters around the country have reported overcrowding, concerns about running low on pet food and a drop-off in charitable donations during the pandemic. The BARK Act would help mitigate the food shortages facing shelters, while also helping to reduce the millions of pounds of pet food that end up wasted in landfills each year.

The BARK Act amends the bipartisan Bill Emerson Good Samaritan Act of 1996 (Emerson Act), which provides criminal and civil liability protections to people and businesses that make good faith donations of food to nonprofits serving needy individuals, to include donations of pet food and supplies to animal shelters.

The BARK Act has the support of 20 co-sponsors in the House of Representatives and has been endorsed by the Animal Welfare Institute, the ASPCA, Best Friends Animal Society and the Humane Society.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=DE9EE22D-09F2-4345-9FE9-A8613F0ED620,Federal Funding Will Support Increased Access to Childcare for Georgia Families,2021-10-21,2021,2021-10,Democrat,House,GA,Lucy McBath,M001208,mcbath.house.gov,mcbath,https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — This week, it was announced that the state of Georgia will use funding from the American Rescue Plan to expand the Childcare and Parent Services program through September of 2024. The Childcare and Parent Services program currently subsidizes childcare costs for about 50,000 Georgia families. The expanded funding will open access to this program to another 10,000 families by raising the income threshold from families with incomes at 50% of the state median to 85% of the median starting next month.

“Georgia families are still reeling from the pain of the COVID-19 pandemic, and childcare costs are a huge part of families’ financial burdens,” McBath said. “I am so pleased that the state of Georgia is putting the federal dollars that my colleagues and I voted to send to Georgia earlier this year to good use. This will truly be a lifeline to families who are in critical need of childcare services.”

In addition to expanded access for Georgia families, the changes announced by the state of Georgia and the Department of Early Care and Learning will also go toward paying higher quality childcare providers more money. Providers that have earned a “Quality Rated” designation based on state standards will see payment increases of 10% to 55% depending on their rating.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-announces-justice-department-287195-grants-to-albany-americus-columbus-and-macon,"CONGRESSMAN BISHOP ANNOUNCES JUSTICE DEPARTMENT $287,195 GRANTS TO ALBANY, AMERICUS, COLUMBUS, AND MACON",2021-10-19,2021,2021-10,Democrat,House,GA,"Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.",B000490,bishop.house.gov,bishop,https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"COLUMBUS, GA – Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) announced that the U.S. Department of Justice is awarding $287,195 in funds to Albany, Americus, Columbus, and Macon, Georgia through the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program. The JAG Program allows states and units of local government, including tribes, to support a broad range of activities to prevent and control crime based on their own state and local needs and conditions.

""We all want to make our communities safer through law enforcement and crime prevention programs as well as a justice system that is fair and aims to uplift our communities. Making sure our communities are engaging in smart policing and have the tools as well as facilities to serve their communities is vital,"" said Congressman Bishop. ""That is why I pushed for robust funding of these programs through the U.S. House Appropriations Committee so that grant awards like this help Albany, Americus, Columbus, and Macon create local solutions to meet their unique needs.""

Through the Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program, the following cities will be awarded funds:

The City of Albany will receive $83,805.

The City of Americus will receive $12,155.

The City of Columbus will receive $104,731.

The City of Macon will receive $87,224.

""We are grateful to Congressman Bishop for working to secure the Edward Byrne JAG grant for our community. This grant aids in protecting and providing for our public safety officers and the citizens they serve,"" said Columbus Mayor B. H. ""Skip"" Henderson, III. ""The grants will go towards body cameras, intelligence led policing, and upgrading our emergency operations center. These investments help to ensure that all interactions between our first responders and the public result in positive outcomes.""

""We are continually looking for ways to increase the safety of our officers as well as our citizens. This funding will support youth engagement, use of force de-escalation, and recruitment/retention efforts within the department,"" said Chief Michael Persley of the Albany Police Department. ""We are thankful to our national elected officials for their continued pursuit of ensuring law enforcement agencies provide professional and quality services to the citizens they serve.""

JAG Program funds can be used for state and local initiatives, technical assistance, training, personnel, equipment, supplies, contractual support, and information systems for criminal justice, including for any one or more of the following program areas: 1) law enforcement programs; 2) prosecution and court programs; 3) prevention and education programs; 4) corrections and community corrections programs; 5) drug treatment and enforcement programs; 6) planning, evaluation, and technology improvement programs; and 7) crime victim and witness programs (other than compensation) and 8) mental health programs and related law enforcement and corrections programs, including behavioral programs and crisis intervention teams.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressional-military-family-caucus-hosts-annual-summit-tackles-challenges-faced-by-military-families,CONGRESSIONAL MILITARY FAMILY CAUCUS HOSTS ANNUAL SUMMIT TACKLES CHALLENGES FACED BY MILITARY FAMILIES,2021-10-18,2021,2021-10,Democrat,House,GA,"Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.",B000490,bishop.house.gov,bishop,https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Last Thursday, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) and Congresswoman Cathy McMorris Rodgers (WA-05), the bipartisan co-chairs of the Congressional Military Family Caucus, hosted a summit to address the current challenges faced by America's military families. Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the event was hosted virtually and shared via livestream on the caucus Facebook Page. The daylong event commenced with welcome remarks by First Lady Dr. Jill Biden, Sergeant Major of the Army Michael Grinston, and Major General Patrick Donahoe, the Commanding General of the U.S. Army Maneuver School of Excellence at Fort Benning in Georgia.

Over the course of the day, subject area experts, military family members as well as organization leaders, and public officials led panel presentations discussing the needs of Modern Military Families including Education, Child Care, Spouse Employment, Healthcare/Exceptional Family Member Program (EMFP), Mental Health, Financial Readiness, Food Insecurity, and Housing. Attendees viewed the event from across the country and were able to share their comments and ask questions of the panelists.

In speaking to the military family summit attendees,Congressman Bishop said that, ""Events like today provide our caucus with the real-life perspective we need to educate our colleagues in Congress so we can build a stronger coalition to address the challenges you face. I look forward to continuing the good work of the Military Family Caucus with Congresswoman McMorris Rodgers and the 68 other Members of Congress who make up this Caucus. I would also ask everyone who joined us today to continue your dialogue with Congress. Your stories are inspiring, your experience is instructive, and your voices are powerful.""

Congresswoman McMorris Rodgers welcomed the event's participants and highlighted her efforts to tackle some of the most urgent challenges military families face — including reducing barriers to military spouse employment by streamlining licensing requirements between states and improving the exceptional family program across the services by establishing an advisory council in the U.S. Department of Defense.

The Congresswoman highlighted the challenges military families face when it comes to education, especially in light of the ongoing pandemic.Congresswoman McMorris Rodgers noted that, ""this year, we have the coronavirus disrupting our schools and routines for the second year in a row. And while most schools remain open, they still are facing immense challenges in this new world. It's very hard. The bottom line is that wherever your service takes you or whatever challenges your family is facing, you should be able to trust that your children's education will stay on track.""

Congressman Bishop was also a speaker on the military family food insecurity panel. Last month, Congressman Bishop introduced H.R. 5346, the bipartisan Equal Access to the Right Nutrition for Military Families Act, or EARN Act, which would increase access to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) for military families.

You can learn more about the event by visiting the summit webpage at https://bishop.house.gov/CMFC-Summit-2021. The webpage includes links to speaker biographies as well as the recorded video for the event.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-bishop-mourns-the-passing-of-trailblazing-leader-colin-powell,CONGRESSMAN BISHOP MOURNS THE PASSING OF TRAILBLAZING LEADER COLIN POWELL,2021-10-18,2021,2021-10,Democrat,House,GA,"Sanford D. Bishop, Jr.",B000490,bishop.house.gov,bishop,https://bishop.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"COLUMBUS, GA – Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) released the following statement on the passing of former Joint Chiefs Chair and Secretary of State, Colin Powell:

""America has lost an extraordinary leader. He was a trailblazer, most notably the first African American to serve as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and the first to serve as U.S. Secretary of State.

""He was a battle-hardened warrior who knew the value of leading with diplomacy. He was an inspiration and beacon of hope to generations of service members who followed him — especially Black Soldiers who saw in him the possibility of their own potential.

""I was blessed to know and work with him and hear his reflections on his time at Fort Benning. I will always remember the joy with which he joined us in 2009 to open the National Infantry Museum and Soldier Center in Columbus, Georgia.

""Though his accomplishments were stellar — twice receiving the Presidential Medal of Freedom — Colin Powell continually demonstrated class and dignity, always putting patriotism over partisanship.

""The world is a better place because of his leadership.""",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-johnson-introduces-resolution-designate-national-vitiligo-awareness,Rep. Johnson Introduces Resolution to Designate National Vitiligo Awareness Day,2021-10-17,2021,2021-10,Democrat,House,GA,"Henry C. ""Hank"" Johnson, Jr.",J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,hankjohnson,https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) re-introduced legislation this week to recognize Oct. 17th as ""National Vitiligo Awareness Day."" The resolution honors courageous children and adults, who live with the autoimmune condition and often must overcome harassment and bullying.

Vitiligo is a long-term, chronic medical condition that results in loss of pigmentation in patches on the skin, hair, eyes, and inside of the mouth. In the United States, around two to five million people are affected by vitiligo. Approximately half of the cases were diagnosed during childhood, thus requiring lifetime treatment.

""With suicide rates amongst bullied children found to be two to nine times higher for children living with this condition, a vitiligo diagnosis can have life-threatening consequences,"" said Rep. Johnson. ""By supporting this resolution, we will name October 17th as National Vitiligo Awareness Day. This resolution will show our support for the millions of men, women, and children suffering from vitiligo and highlight the importance of providing comprehensive medical and mental health support to Americans with chronic conditions.""

The American Academy of Dermatology refers to vitiligo as a life-altering disorder that can result in low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression. This is especially prevalent when children are diagnosed. Children with vitiligo are have been found to be disproportionately bullied. They have a harder time making friends and are more likely to perform poorly at school.

""As a mother and educator this resolution not only will be another tool for planting seeds of hope but will positively impact children living with vitiligo, said Vitiligo Bond CEO Natasha Pierre McCarthy. ""Educators and parents nationally can use this day to talk about the importance of not bullying and respecting people's differences. Awareness is the key,"" ""With the right support and nurturing a child with vitiligo can thrive. But without that support vitiligo can damage the human spirit.""

Read the resolution HERE.

Read the AADA Letter of Support",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases?ID=022B0B42-A116-4956-973F-21F2306E6488,"McBath, Cumberland CID, Georgia DOT, and Officials Break Ground on New Akers Mill Road Access Ramp",2021-10-16,2021,2021-10,Democrat,House,GA,Lucy McBath,M001208,mcbath.house.gov,mcbath,https://mcbath.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"Marietta, GA — This week, U.S. Rep. Lucy McBath (GA-06) joined the Cumberland Community Improvement District (Cumberland CID), the Georgia Department of Transportation (Georgia DOT), and state and local leaders for a groundbreaking ceremony of a new access point to the popular Northwest Corridor Express Lanes at Akers Mill Road. McBath helped secure $5 million for the project in 2019.

“When I travel across our community, improving our transportation and infrastructure remains a topic of conversation at every kitchen table. Transportation has long been a central part of what makes this community run. I was proud to help secure $5 million for the Akers Mill Ramp Project and join our partners today at the groundbreaking,” said McBath. “These are investments that make it quicker and safer to get to work and ensure our local businesses have access to the materials and talent they need to grow and thrive. Like any good investment, this bipartisan funding will pay long-term dividends for our communities. With projects like this, we are reinvigorating the infrastructure of America, better connecting our country, and helping our community chart a course toward an effective and efficient future.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-johnson-senator-markey-chairman-nadler-rep-jones-statement,"Congressman Johnson, Senator Markey, Chairman Nadler & Rep. Jones Statement on White House Supreme Court Commission Draft Materials",2021-10-15,2021,2021-10,Democrat,House,GA,"Henry C. ""Hank"" Johnson, Jr.",J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,hankjohnson,https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Washington (October 14, 2021) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler (NY-10), Chairman of the Judiciary Subcommittee on Courts, Intellectual Property, and the Internet Hank Johnson (GA-04), and Representative Mondaire Jones (NY-17) released the following statement after the Presidential Commission on the Supreme Court of the United States released its initial draft materials today.

""The White House Commission on the Supreme Court ‘draft' misses the mark. After years of Republicans upending precedent, breaking their own rules, and stealing seats on the Supreme Court, we must restore legitimacy and integrity to the Court and undo the damage Donald Trump and Mitch McConnell have inflicted on our democracy,"" said the lawmakers in a joint statement. ""The GOP's rigged bench is contorting our laws and issuing decisions that do not reflect, understand, or serve the people the Court is meant to represent. Voting rights, abortion rights, immigration rights, LGBTQ+ rights, and women's rights are all at stake. We need more than the Commission's report. We must pass legislation to expand the Supreme Court.""

Senator Markey and Reps. Johnson, Nadler, and Jones introduced the Judiciary Act of 2021 in April to expand the United States Supreme Court by adding four seats, creating a 13-justice Supreme Court. This bill would restore balance to the nation's highest court after four years of norm-breaking actions by Republicans led to its current composition and greatly damaged the Court's standing in the eyes of the American people.

In 2016, then-Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and the Republican Senate refused to consider the nomination of Judge Merrick Garland to the high court, citing their opposition to consideration of Supreme Court nominations in an election year. Yet, a few years later in 2020, Senate Republicans broke their own rule in order to confirm Justice Amy Coney Barrett while Americans had already begun casting their votes in the presidential election. Republican appointees represent a 6-3 supermajority, and Republicans have appointed 15 of the last 19 justices to the bench.

The number of justices that sit on the Supreme Court is set by a simple act of Congress, and it can be changed the same way, without requiring a constitutional amendment. Congress has adjusted the size of the court seven times throughout its history, ranging from six to ten justices and establishing a substantial historical precedent for the legislation.

###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-johnson-introduces-legislation-secure-cybersecurity-grants-funding,Rep. Johnson Introduces Legislation to Secure Cybersecurity Grants Funding for HBCUs,2021-10-15,2021,2021-10,Democrat,House,GA,"Henry C. ""Hank"" Johnson, Jr.",J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,hankjohnson,https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04), Chairman of the Judiciary Subcommittee on Courts, Intellectual Property and the Internet, introduced the Cybersecurity Opportunity Act to fund a cybersecurity grant education program at Historically Black Colleges and Universities and Minority Serving Institutions.

The Cybersecurity Opportunity Act would direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to award at least 50 percent of existing cybersecurity grants to HBCUs for five years for increasing research, education, technical, partnership, and innovation capacity.

This legislation would help strengthen cybersecurity and contribute to a more diverse workplace by giving the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) authority to make grants to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs); and minority-serving institutions (MSIs) to promote cybersecurity education and research.

""Recent, unprecedented cyberattacks like the SolarWinds and Colonial Pipeline breaches demonstrate the urgency of solving the national cybersecurity workforce and funding shortages,"" said Rep. Johnson. ""And it's not just enough to throw more money and workers at the problem. We must include more women and minorities, so we are maximizing all the tech talent our country has to offer.""

U.S. Sen. Jon Ossoff (GA) introduced the companion in the Senate this summer.

""This legislation will expand America's cybersecurity workforce to protect our nation from hackers and support diversity and equality of opportunity in the cybersecurity profession by expanding training programs at Historically Black Colleges and Universities,"" said Sen. Ossoff. ""I thank Congressman Hank Johnson for his co-authorship of this bill and his ongoing effort to secure House passage of the Cybersecurity Opportunity Act.""

Cybersecurity Opportunity Act will create the ""Dr. David Satcher Cybersecurity Education Grant Program,"" named after the former U.S. Surgeon General and Morehouse School of Medicine Dean.

The Satcher Grants will expand cybersecurity training programs at Historically Black Colleges and Universities and other colleges and universities that serve a high proportion of Pell Grant recipients in Georgia and nationwide.

In addition to directing the Secretary of Homeland Security to award at least 50 percent of existing cybersecurity grants to HBCUs for five years, the Cybersecurity Opportunity Act would increase research, education, technical, partnership, and innovation capacity, including:

Building and upgrading institutional capacity to better support new or existing cybersecurity programs, including cybersecurity partnerships with public and private entities.

Building and upgrading institutional capacity to provide hands-on research and training experiences for undergraduate and graduate students.

Outreach and recruitment to ensure students are aware of such new or existing cybersecurity programs, including cybersecurity partnerships with public and private entities.

""Rapid upskilling in cybersecurity with in-demand employable and entrepreneurial technical, software engineering and sales skills for all Americans, including Black, Latinx and Indigenous communities, is a matter of our collective national security, upward mobility and path to multi-generational wealth in the fourth industrial revolution."" said Rodney Sampson, Executive Chairman & CEO, Opportunity Hub and Nonresident Senior Fellow, Brookings Institution. ""OHUB and our aggregate of distributed and decentralized partnering bootcamps are supportive of Congressman Johnson's Cybersecurity Opportunity Act and remain committed to increasing our partnerships with Minority Serving Institutions, including our nation's Historically Black Colleges and Universities, to deliver these industry specific skills to complement their pedagogical innovation to ensure their service to minority communities in America and beyond.""

""This legislation would also provide the impetus for our cybersecurity workforce to expand and become more diverse while supporting institutions on their path to producing qualified entrants in the cybersecurity workforce and becoming a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity,"" said Rep. Johnson. ""We're engaged in a cyber war and we need all hands-on deck – HBCUs are doing some of the most sophisticated, technologically advanced work in our nation and we need to tap into and fully support those institutions to help us win this cyber war.""

Current Co-Sponsors (40): Reps. Sanford Bishop, Karen Bass, Deborah K. Ross, Ritchie Torres, Dina Titus, André Carson, Donald M. Payne, Jr., Pete Aguilar, Eleanor Holmes Norton, Yvette D. Clarke Sheila Jackson Lee, David N. Cicilline, Val Butler Demings, Kweisi Mfume, Gwen Moore, Bonnie Watson Coleman, William R. Keating, Nikema Williams, Alma S. Adams, Eddie Bernice Johnson, Jim Costa, Marc A. Veasey, Steven Horsford, Robin L. Kelly, Ruben Gallego, Barbara Lee, Bennie Thompson, Frederica S. Wilson, Al Lawson, Lucy McBath, Marilyn Strickland, Emanuel Cleaver, Dwight Evans, Steve Cohen, G.K. Butterfield, Mike Quigley, Joseph D. Morelle, Colin Allred, Al Green, Ro Khanna.

Endorsing Organizations: Morehouse College, Paine College, Fort Valley State University, Savannah State University, Georgia Piedmont Technical College, Georgia State University, Clark Atlanta University, Opportunity Hub.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z
https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-johnson-urges-biden-administration-hit-reset-button-us-brazil,Rep. Johnson Urges Biden Administration To Hit Reset Button on U.S.-Brazil Relations,2021-10-14,2021,2021-10,Democrat,House,GA,"Henry C. ""Hank"" Johnson, Jr.",J000288,hankjohnson.house.gov,hankjohnson,https://hankjohnson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"63 Colleagues Join Congressman Johnson on Letter to POTUS Expressing Concerns Over Brazil, Bolsonaro

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04), along with more than 60 of his colleagues, sent a letter to President Biden today urging the administration to leverage its influence to address Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro's effort to erode his nation's democratic institutions, human and civil rights, Amazon rainforest deforestation, election tampering and pervasive corruption.

Specifically, Congressman Johnson and his House colleagues request that Brazil should not be designated as a Non-NATO Major Ally given the democratic backsliding that has occurred in Brazil under President Bolsonaro's leadership as well as his continued push for increased deforestation and environmental degradation of the Amazon. The Brazilian president has been accused of crimes against humanity by the International Criminal Court (ICC).

The members also stress the importance of appointing a U.S. Ambassador to Brazil that reflects the American values of respect for democracy, human rights, and the environment to prevent Brazil's democratic backsliding under Bolsonaro that threatens democratization in South America.

The full letter in English below. Or click HERE to read the letter.

President Joseph R. Biden

The White House

Washington, DC 20500

Dear President Biden,

We write to express our deep concern over President Jair Bolsonaro's pursuit of policies in Brazil that threaten democratic rule, human rights, public health, and the environment in the largest country in South America and the sixth-most populous nation in the world. We believe that it is critically important that cooperation between the U.S. and Brazil is based on a shared commitment to respect democratic values and human rights, and to take action to address the Covid-19 pandemic and the climate crisis. We urge you to send a clear message to the Bolsonaro Administration that if President Bolsonaro's attacks on the Brazilian election process continue, then U.S.-Brazil relations will be severely compromised.

Bolsonaro's tenure has been marked by anti-democratic policies from the outset. He is among the leading examples of the global trend toward illiberal and authoritarian politics. His campaign was marked by hateful insults hurled against Afro-Brazilians, Indigenous peoples, LGBTQIA+ people, labor unions, and praise for the brutal military dictatorship that ruled in Brazil from 1964 to 1985. Once in power, Bolsonaro proceeded to enact a wide range of policies that have endangered vulnerable minority groups, created historically high unemployment rates, harmed the environment, threatened Brazil's relatively young democracy, and led to the unnecessary deaths of hundreds of thousands from Covid-19.

Bolsonaro has stated that he will not accept the next election results under the current Brazilian voting system. We find this particularly troubling because Bolsonaro has brought more military officials into his administration than any other president since Brazil's democracy was reestablished in 1988, creating conflicts between governmental institutions and the armed forces. Bolsonaro backed Trump's false claims of election fraud and was one of the last global leaders to recognize your electoral victory, facts that also cast doubt on his willingness to accept the results of Brazil's 2022 election. His son — a prominent Brazilian Congressman — personally attended ""Stop the Steal"" activities on January 6 in Washington, which prompted Senator Bob Menendez to issue a letter demanding that Bolsonaro condemn the attacks on our democracy.

We are also deeply troubled by Bolsonaro's hardline, militarized approach to law enforcement, which has resulted in massive human rights violations, as illustrated by the Jacarezinho operation last May — the deadliest police raid in Rio de Janeiro's history — which resulted in the death of 28 people. Alarmingly, the number of killings by police in Brazil in 2019 reached its highest level since 2013 with more than 6,000 killings of mostly poor and black people. These police killings are largely a result of the excessive use of force encouraged by Bolsonaro.

Bolsonaro has also gravely endangered the bio-diverse Amazon rainforest by dismantling environmental agencies and weakening enforcement mechanisms. These actions have led to an increase in violations of Indigenous peoples' rights and enabled the invasion of constitutionally protected territories by illegal loggers, miners and ranchers. Bolsonaro has militarized parts of the Amazon region, substituting environmental specialists with untrained military officials who have failed to prevent illegal deforestation, mining and land grabs. Following an 80 percent decrease in deforestation from 2004-2012, Bolsonaro has unapologetically overseen record-high deforestation rates since taking office in 2019. Given these facts, the U.S. government should reject any environmental deal with Bolsonaro that is not conditioned on tangible results, as 15 U.S. senators, celebrities, and over 200 organizations recently urged.

Another area of concern is Bolsonaro's refusal to implement critical policies recommended by experts to address the Covid-19 pandemic. Instead of adopting recommended preventive measures, the Brazilian government bought millions of excess doses of hydroxychloroquine that were produced after former President Trump misleadingly touted its benefits and despite studies confirming a higher percentage of deaths associated with the medicine. Largely as a result of these irresponsible policies, more than 600,000 Brazilians have died from Covid-19, the second highest rate of Covid deaths in the world. Bolsonaro's policies threaten the world by enabling the spread of new and more dangerous variants of the virus, and he is now under investigation in the Brazilian Congress over Covid-19 vaccine deals.

Bolsonaro's deplorable record in office calls for an urgent review of U.S.-Brazil relations with a focus on identifying potential adjustments to the relationship that could provide leverage to incentivize less harmful behavior. This review should include bilateral cooperation on counter-narcotics and counterterrorism, and most notably, the offer made to Brazil to become a NATO global partner. In 2019, Brazil was designated a Major Non-NATO Ally (MNNA), and Bolsonaro used this designation for his political benefit, citing it as a major accomplishment and a stamp of approval from the U.S. government. Offering the government of Brazil the opportunity to become a NATO partner would signal that the U.S. has no serious issue with the human rights, democratic, and environmental violations taking place in Brazil.

Therefore, we respectfully call on you to at a minimum return U.S.-Brazil relations to the pre-Trump status quo, at least until a new leader, more aligned with democratic and human rights values, is elected in Brazil. This should include cancelling the MNNA designation, withdrawing the offer made to Brazil to become a NATO partner, and other forms of harmful cooperation established during the Trump-Bolsonaro period.

Troubling actions by the previous U.S. administration towards Brazil should also be reviewed, including the Trump Administration directly lobbying Brazil to reject desperately needed vaccines for geopolitical reasons and the potential role of the U.S. Department of Justice in advising the investigation that led to the unjust disqualification of Bolsonaro's primary electoral opponent — a decision that was recently overturned by Brazil's highest court because of alleged political bias.

The recent retirement of former ambassador to Brazil, Todd Chapman, represents an important opportunity to put our relationship with Brazil back on the right track. Ambassador Chapman maintained a problematic personal friendship with Bolsonaro and refused to publicly encourage Bolsonaro to protect the environment, human rights, and democracy in his nation. Filling this vacancy with an ambassador that will remain politically neutral while firmly standing up for fundamental U.S. values and interests would represent an important step forward.

We appreciated the actions taken by the Obama-Biden administration in support of human rights in Brazil, including your personal support to the country's Truth Commission that you demonstrated by hand delivering classified documents related to Brazil's military dictatorship to then President Dilma Rousseff. It is important to note that Rousseff's removal from office was marked by misogynistic narratives in which Jair Bolsonaro, then a congressman, honored Dilma's torturer — identified by the Truth Commission as one of the worst human rights abusers during the dictatorship — while voting for her impeachment.

Thank you kindly for your attention to this important matter.

Sincerely,

Henry C. ""Hank"" Johnson Jr.

MEMBER OF CONGRESS

Current Cosigners (63): Reps. Rashida Tlaib, Karen Bass, Jesús G. ""Chuy"" García, Eleanor Holmes Norton, David N. Cicilline, Alan Lowenthal, Ilhan Omar, Ayanna Pressley, Mark Pocan, Susan Wild, Jim Costa, Maxine Waters, Adriano Espaillat, Raul M. Grijalva, Jan Schakowsky, Cori Bush, Zoe Lofgren, Sylvia R. Garcia, Juan Vargas, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Donald M. Payne, Jr., Tony Cárdenas, Pramila Jayapal, Mondaire Jones, Brenda L. Lawrence, Jamaal Bowman, Ro Khanna, Veronica Escobar, James P. McGovern, Donald S. Beyer Jr., Steve Cohen, Yvette D. Clarke, Daniel T. Kildee, David Trone, Bill Pascrell, Jr., Joaquin Castro, Anna G. Eshoo, Andy Levin, Nydia M. Velazquez, Rosa L. DeLauro, Katherine M. Clark, Peter Welch, Jimmy Gomez, Linda T. Sánchez, Frank Pallone, Jr., Jerrold Nadler, Danny K. Davis, Jared Huffman, Jamie Raskin, Earl Blumenauer, Grace F. Napolitano, Suzanne Bonamici, Bobby L. Rush, Bonnie Watson Coleman, Lucille Roybal-Allard, Peter A. DeFazio, Dwight Evans, James R. Langevin, Barbara Lee, Nanette Diaz Barragán, Lloyd Doggett, Jerry McNerney, Debbie Dingell.

Endorsing Organizations: AFL-CIO, Service Employees International Union (SEIU), Amazon Watch, Washington Office on Latin America (WOLA), Greenpeace USA, Center for Economic and Policy Research (CEPR), Just Foreign Policy (JFP), U.S Network for Democracy in Brazil, United Food & Commercial Workers International Union (UFCW).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T20:24:51Z