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://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7430,"Dingell, Colleagues Introduce Resolution Honoring 27th Anniversary of Landmark Court Decision Supporting Americans with Disabilities",2026-09-30,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,MI,Debbie Dingell,D000624,debbiedingell.house.gov,debbiedingell,https://debbiedingell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06), alongside Representatives Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01), Mary Gay Scanlon (D-PA-05), Mike Lawler (R-NY-17), Lateefah Simon (D-CA-12), and Tom Kean (R-NJ-07), introduced a bipartisan resolution marking the 27th anniversary of the landmark Supreme Court decision, Olmstead v. L.C., which recognized the unjustified institutional isolation of people with disabilities as discrimination under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and to reaffirm the right of people with disabilities to live in their homes and communities. ""It is essential that people with disabilities continue to have the right to live, work, and thrive in their own communities with dignity."" said Congresswoman Dingell. ""This bipartisan resolution reaffirms that we will not allow hard won progress to be rolled back, and that we will continue to protect and support the rights enshrined by the Olmstead decision for every person whose lives it has changed for the better."" ""Although the Olmstead decision was issued more than twenty‑five years ago, its significance remains just as strong today. I am pleased to join my colleagues in introducing this resolution, reaffirming our commitment to ending discrimination based on disability,"" said Congressman Kean. ""For 27 years, the Supreme Court’s decision in Olmstead v. L.C. has informed the advancement of policies to empower individuals with disabilities to live and work independently in our communities,"" said Congresswoman Scanlon. ""Recent attempts to undermine the Olmstead integration mandate and roll back those policies raises new opportunities for discrimination against our friends and neighbors with disabilities, and harms the larger community. I’m proud to join my House colleagues in recognizing Olmstead’s anniversary and recommitting ourselves to protecting community integration for the good of all."" ""Olmstead affirmed a fundamental principle: every American deserves the freedom and opportunity to build a full life in the community they call home. As Co-Chair of the Bipartisan Disabilities Caucus, that principle has always been at the heart of my work to break down barriers, strengthen independence, and ensure all Americans with disabilities have the resources, support, and opportunities they need to thrive. Twenty-seven years later, our responsibility is not simply to recognize the progress Olmstead made possible, but to protect it, build upon it, and ensure that progress is never reversed,"" said Congressman Fitzpatrick. ""The Supreme Court made clear in Olmstead v. L.C. that Americans with disabilities have the right to live in the most integrated setting possible, rather than being unnecessarily institutionalized. That is why earlier this year I wrote to the DOJ urging it to uphold this longstanding precedent and enforce the Americans with Disabilities Act. I am proud to co-lead this legislation commemorating the 27th anniversary of this landmark decision and reaffirming the importance of ensuring individuals with disabilities can continue to live where they choose, alongside their friends, family, and the communities where they grew up,"" said Congressman Lawler. The resolution is endorsed by the Caring Across Generations, United Spinal, ANCOR, Autism Self Advocacy Network, National Council on Independent Living, American Association of People with Disabilities, and the National Disability Rights Network. This resolution follows an August 2026 effort led by Congresswomen Dingell and Scanlon condemning a Department of Justice (DOJ) legal opinion that was issued in June 2026 regarding Olmstead v. L.C. While the legal opinion does not overturn the decision, it threatens enforcement of the rights afforded by the Court’s decision under a hostile DOJ that has failed to protect the rights of individuals with disabilities. A copy of the resolution can be found HERE.",1,2026-10-01T11:23:28Z,2026-10-01T11:25:15Z https://mcclain.house.gov/2026/9/chairwoman-mcclain-condemns-senate-democrats-vote-against-ratepayer-protection-act,Chairwoman McClain Condemns Senate Democrats’ Vote Against Ratepayer Protection Act,2026-09-30,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,MI,Lisa C. McClain,M001136,mcclain.house.gov,mcclain,https://mcclain.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON— House Republican Conference Chairwoman Lisa McClain (R-Mich.) released the following statement after Senate Democrats blocked H.R. 9340, the Ratepayer Protection Act, from advancing. “Families should not be forced to subsidize massive new power demands they did not create,” Chairwoman McClain said. “This bill would have protected ratepayers in Michigan and nationwide while allowing America to keep building, innovating, and leading the world in AI. Instead, Senate Democrats chose obstruction and left hardworking Americans exposed to higher costs.” “That is the wrong choice. Washington should be protecting families from unnecessary price hikes, not standing in the way of commonsense reforms that keep more money in their pockets. Democrats can make all the excuses they want, but today they stood in the way of lower costs for the American people.” ###",1,2026-10-01T11:23:28Z,2026-10-01T11:25:15Z https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/icymi-senator-peters-reflects-on-proudest-accomplishments-for-michigan-takeaways-from-congress-during-detroit-economic-club-exit-interview,"ICYMI: Senator Peters Reflects on Proudest Accomplishments for Michigan, Takeaways from Congress During Detroit Economic Club Exit Interview",2026-09-30,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"DETROIT, MI – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) reflected on his proudest accomplishments and takeaways from his 18 years in Congress during an “Exit Interview” with the Detroit Economic Club. In a conversation moderated by Local 4 Detroit’s Jason Colthrup, Peters highlighted his long-term efforts to support Michigan’s auto industry, protect the Great Lakes, and secure long-term missions at Selfridge Air National Guard Base. Below are highlights from Peters’ remarks: Advocating for the 2009 Auto Rescue, Making the Case to Congress: “We had a lot of members of Congress that were around the country that were saying, ‘Yeah, let them go bankrupt. You know, that’s okay. That’s capitalism, if they go under, that’s it.’ And I’m like, ‘No, you can’t have a manufacturing sector in America if you don’t have an auto sector that’s healthy and vibrant. This impacts everybody,’ and we made the case aggressively.” Securing a Strong Future for Selfridge Air National Guard Base, including: Delivering a New Squadron of KC-46A Refueling Tankers: “I blocked the Air Force Secretary from getting confirmed under the Biden Administration. He wasn’t going to get confirmed until I got some sort of commitment. And we worked together, and our delegation worked together, and then they said, ‘Well, we’ll get you these tankers.’” Establishing the Northern Border Mission Center: “Now, we have this mission center which coordinates all of the border security from Maine to Washington state, all of the northern border, and it’s going to happen at Selfridge, which gives it a major Department of Homeland Security (DHS) mission.” To watch Peters’ full interview at the Detroit Economic Club, click here. Securing Investments for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, Protecting Our Waterways: “The Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, which was passed in [20]10, has been a major game changer. Billions of dollars have been going in, if you just think of the Detroit River area and up into Port Huron, I think $250 million to make sure we’re cleaning up the old toxic sites that were here from our industrial heritage. The watersheds are clean. And that happens all around the Great Lakes Basin. That has been major.” Creating the U.S. Coast Guard Great Lakes Center of Expertise in Michigan: “It now has state of the art equipment there to train crews on how to clean up oil spills, so we don’t have to wait two weeks for a submersible. It can be there like in an hour and a half, it’s very close. We’re gaining the expertise there to make sure we’re cleaning up oil spills not just in the Great Lakes, but all of freshwater.” The Detroit Economic Club (DEC) was formed in 1934 as a non-partisan, non-profit organization that promotes discussion and debate of important business, government, and social issues. When the 2008 financial crisis rocked Michigan’s automotive industry, Peters was instrumental in advocating for the rescue of the Big Three automakers, which saved more than 1 million automotive industry jobs in Michigan and across the country. Peters served in the U.S. Navy Reserve for 12 years, rising to the rank of Lt. Commander. During that time, he drilled at Selfridge Air National Guard Base in Macomb County. As a U.S. Senator, Peters has worked tirelessly to secure the future of Selfridge as Michigan’s premier military installation to maintain its role in our nation’s defense and as an economic driver for the state. He led the Michigan delegation to secure a full squadron of next generation KC-46A aircraft tankers, which will operate at Selfridge for the next 50 years. He also established and secured funding for the Northern Border Mission Center to be located at Selfridge. Throughout his career in public service, Peters has been a champion for protecting the Great Lakes and Michigan’s drinking water from threats like oil spills and PFAS contamination. Peters’ efforts have helped protect our most precious source of drinking water and an economic engine for our state from the devastating consequences of pollution. He authored a provision signed into law to create the U.S. Coast Guard National Center of Expertise (NCOE) for the Great Lakes, and secured $1.5 million to launch the center. Headquartered at Lake Superior State University in Sault Ste. Marie and the Great Lakes Environmental Research Laboratory in Ann Arbor, the Great Lakes National Center of Expertise will examine the impacts of oil spills in freshwater environments and help develop effective responses that currently don’t exist. ###",1,2026-10-01T11:23:28Z,2026-10-01T11:25:15Z https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/09/30/icymi-slotkin-delivers-speech-at-carnegie-institution-on-defending-democracy/,ICYMI: Slotkin Delivers Speech at Carnegie Institution on Defending Democracy,2026-09-30,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Wednesday, September 30, U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) delivered remarks at Carnegie Endowment for International Peace on her takeaways from a recent trip to Hungary and Poland, and how we can use lessons from those countries to protect democracy here in the United States. This follows a speech last year to the Brookings Institution, where Slotkin warned of President Trump’s authoritarian playbook. Following her remarks, she joined Anne Applebaum, a Pulitzer Prize-winning historian and staff writer for The Atlantic, for a Q&A discussion on lessons learned from global pro-democracy efforts and the future of American democracy. Slotkin’s remarks as prepared Watch full speech READ SOME KEY EXCERPTS BELOW. Two visions for America: But what this last year has clarified for me is that, as leaders, we have a responsibility not to just ‘admire the problem’, as we say at the Pentagon. The American people are looking for a path through the dark tunnel and into the light. President Trump thinks America is unremarkable, mediocre, and in decline. He believes we are not exceptional in our role in the world, and we never were – same as China or Russia. The America I know is filled with big-hearted people, who care about their neighbors and their community, and certainly the future for their kids. A society, stitched together by shared values of fairness and boundless optimism. America is a place where we do big things, and a shared set of laws allows anyone from anywhere to succeed. Toplines from Hungary: Just five months ago, a pro-democracy movement in Hungary achieved what many thought was impossible: they beat their authoritarian leader, Viktor Orban, ending his 16-year regime. Orban was elected in 2010 on the promise that he would put more money in the pockets of average Hungarians.7 While Hungary is not an apples-to-apples comparison to America, the trip helped crystallize some of the very trends we’re seeing here in our country… Authoritarians talk a big game about bringing down costs, but once in power, they enrich themselves at the expense of their own voters. They just can’t help themselves. Eventually, that corruption trickles down to the average person. At this point, Donald Trump is on track to be the most successful corrupt leader in the world’s history. Best estimates are that he and his family have increased their net worth by more than 3.5 billion dollars. At the CIA, I was an Iraq specialist. I spent a lot of time in Baghdad. Let me just say: Saddam Hussein would have spit out his tea at the level of corruption Trump and his family are currently engaged in: Palaces and golden ballrooms and arches dedicated to himself. Saddam would have been green with envy. If we learned anything from Hungary and other authoritarian countries, it’s that eventually we hit a tipping point, and the public will refuse to accept this level of corruption. We have to lift the veil of fear: One of the key tools in authoritarian governments is the wielding of fear. Just think about what Trump has done to our journalists, universities, law firms, and corporations that won’t bow down to him. They’re all just going to ground and trying to stay out of Donald Trump’s firing line. They should be linking arms and working together to push back. But they’re not. Build a broad coalition: In Hungary, the lesson I drew very clearly was that you need a broad coalition to remove an authoritarian like Orban at the polls. Peter Magyar was a young, dynamic newcomer who used social media brilliantly – but just as relevant was the coalition he put together to oust Orban. Here in America, that coalition would be the equivalent of disaffected Trump voters, traditional Democratic voters, and young and first time voters. What we know here in the US, is that a new coalition is needed that crosses party lines to win in 2028. No litmus testing people out of a movement for change. And, I’d offer that after losing two of the last three elections to Trump, insiders in Washington need to accept that it’s no longer Democrat vs. Republicans or Moderates vs. Progressives. That is fighting the last war. The tectonic plates of American politics are shifting beneath our feet. The real divide is those who believe in President Trump’s vision of America – that we have no moral backbone, no core belief system, and we’re in decline – and those who believe that the American spirit still lives… Free and fair elections: The authoritarian playbook is very clear: When you’re at risk of losing, you either A: make up a threat that only you can protect the American people from, or B: find a way for federal law enforcement or the military to seize ballots or machines. In Hungary, Orban used Plan A. One week before his election, he falsely claimed there was a major threat to an oil pipeline in an attempt to be seen as the only true protector. Luckily, the Hungarians saw through it. They knew it was all a ruse. A forward-looking agenda: So, what can we offer a big broad coalition that is willing to vote against a dictator? In my mind, we owe them three things. First: We need to show people that the government can work in concrete ways. Number Two: Accountability. Number Three: We need to Trump-proof the government. Conclusion: I believe that Americans want the best for each other and the future of this country. I believe that we are a people who will build the future with our own two hands – so that our children and grandchildren have a better life to look forward to. And I am optimistic because this isn’t the only time in our country’s history we’ve had a rough period. Even if it sometimes feels that way. If you’re like me and history gives you hope, then just think about all these tough moments in our history, and how we got out of them. Every single time, we got through it with two things: engaged citizens and principled leaders. I’ll leave you with this: America is not a country that cowers. We’re not at our end. We will get out of this. We will not give up the ship. ###",1,2026-10-01T11:23:28Z,2026-10-01T11:25:15Z https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases/barrett-urges-secretary-rubio-un-ambassador-waltz-work-international-ai,"Barrett Urges Secretary Rubio, UN Ambassador Waltz to Work on International AI Agreement",2026-09-29,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,MI,Tom Barrett,B001321,barrett.house.gov,barrett,https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Today, Congressman Tom Barrett (MI-07) wrote a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio and U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz, encouraging them to collaborate with other nations to develop an international agreement to set guardrails on artificial intelligence (AI). Barrett’s letter comes the day after the United Nations concluded its High-level Week at the beginning of the 81st Session of the UN General Assembly. Barrett asked the foreign policy officials to tackle risks from AI in light of warnings from AI researchers earlier this month. “It is my strong belief, as the General Assembly begins its intensive working period, that conversations surrounding artificial intelligence (AI) should include robust efforts for plans and collaboration towards an international agreement,” Barrett wrote. “While there has been productive dialogue between industry and world leaders about the future of AI, it is imperative for the United States to chart the path forward.” He continued, “The 81st Session of the UN General Assembly is uniquely positioned to begin these conversations with other countries. This should not only happen with our allies, but our adversaries as well. While we may have disagreements, we should all work towards the common goal of ensuring this technology is properly regulated for the common good and safety of all countries. These exchanges should include ideas for an international AI treaty, incident report sharing, risk management techniques, and human control over offensive and nuclear weapons. Beginning these discussions will ensure we are all prepared. “This next frontier in emerging technology has the ability to propel this world into a golden age or send us into collapse. I respectfully request that you both work to create regular and consistent multilateral dialogue on AI moving forward. It is critical that we begin these talks before it is too late.” Background Barrett has been a leader on increasing accountability and transparency for artificial intelligence and data centers. In addition to his call for international collaboration, Barrett has introduced or co-sponsored the following bills in Congress: The Human Authority over Autonomous Weapons Act (H.R. 9729) to ensure that no autonomous or artificial intelligence-enabled weapon system used by the United States military can carry out an intentionally lethal strike without meaningful human oversight or a human decision-maker in the loop. The Children Harmed by AI Technology (CHAT) Act (H.R. 7218) to require AI chatbots to implement age verification measures to protect minors. The bill requires parental consent for minors using chatbots, bans chatbots from engaging in sexually explicit communications with minors, and requires chatbots to notify a minor’s parent if the minor’s chat shows signs of suicidal ideation. The AI Threat Output and Monitoring Incident Containment Act (H.R. 9965) to test advanced AI systems to prevent risks to nuclear safety. The Doctors Not AI Act (H.R. 10210), introduced by Barrett and Landsman, to ensure that artificial intelligence cannot make or dictate health insurance coverage decisions involving medical judgment. The VA Claims AI Accountability Act (H.R. 10418) to require VA employees — not AI — to make the final decisions for approval of disability claims or benefits. The bill also strengthens oversight and accountability for the VA’s digital benefits system. The VA AI Transparency Act (H.R. 10417) to require the VA to disclose to every veteran any use of AI by the VA, including in claims processing and customer service chats. The Protecting Local Control of Data Centers Act (H.R. 10119) to prohibit federal agencies from overriding local land-use, zoning, siting, or permitting authority related to data centers. The No Data Center NDAs Act (H.R. 10118) to prohibit members of Congress from signing non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) about data centers, including any information about possible locations or how much water or energy a facility is expected to consume. The No Secrets for Data Centers Act (H.R. 10570) to prohibit and invalidate NDAs signed by federal, state, and local government officials to conceal details of data center projects. The bill would also prohibit data center operators from receiving government incentives if the conditions include entering an agreement to keep information about the project confidential.",1,2026-09-30T10:57:52Z,2026-09-30T10:59:04Z https://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7428,"Dingell, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Bolster Great Lakes Conservation Efforts",2026-09-29,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,MI,Debbie Dingell,D000624,debbiedingell.house.gov,debbiedingell,https://debbiedingell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Representatives Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06), Tim Walberg (R-MI-05), Marcy Kaptur (D-OH-09), Bill Huizenga (R-MI-04), David Joyce (R-OH-14), Haley Stevens (D-MI-11), Tom Barrett (R-MI-07), and Hillary Scholten (D-MI-03) introduced the Regional Great Lakes Partnership Act, a bipartisan, bicameral bill to bolster federal support for Great Lakes research and conservation. This legislation designates the Great Lakes Commission (GLC) as the official Regional Great Lakes Partnership within the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Regional Ocean Partnerships Program. This designation ensures that the Great Lakes region receives a fair share of program funding, delivering federal resources to support the GLC’s longstanding work to coordinate Great Lakes research and conservation efforts. ""The Great Lakes and their connected waterways are invaluable resources for Michigan and the United States,"" said Congresswoman Dingell. ""As a co-chair of the Congressional Great Lakes Task Force, I am proud to help introduce this bipartisan bill to strengthen federal support for Great Lakes research and conservation for future generations to enjoy these national treasures."" ""As the largest freshwater system in the world, the Great Lakes are central to Michigan’s economy, identity, and long‑term prosperity,” said Congressman Walberg. ""The bipartisan Regional Great Lakes Partnership Act ensures the region receives its fair share of federal support, strengthening the research and conservation work needed to protect this indispensable resource. We must equip our partners with the tools necessary to safeguard the waters and communities that rely on a healthy Great Lakes ecosystem."" ""As a Co-Chair of the bipartisan Congressional Great Lakes Task Force, I helped introduce this legislation to close a gap in a national program that benefits only coastal ocean states. The bill continues our work together to ensure the Federal Government levels the playing field to commit equivalent, well‑deserved resources to our Great Lakes region,"" said Congresswoman Kaptur. ""The Great Lakes are central and essential to Northwest Ohio’s livelihood and economic wellbeing, and enabling the Great Lakes Commission to participate in this NOAA program will strengthen data sharing, enhance information access, and improve management of our coastal and ecosystem resources. In Lake Erie’s Western Basin, home to the shallowest and southernmost shoreline in the Great Lakes system, we face these challenges in real ways and will continue to lead in advancing research and information exchange for the benefit of our entire region."" ""As Co-Chair of the bipartisan Congressional Great Lakes Task Force, I have made it my mission to have the federal government recognize the Great Lakes as a national priority,"" said Congressman Huizenga. ""The Regional Great Lakes Partnership Act furthers this objective by enhancing the Great Lakes Commission’s steadfast work to protect and conserve Michigan’s most valuable natural resource."" ""The Great Lakes are a critical resource for the economies and communities that surround them,"" said Congressman Joyce. ""As Co-Chair of the Congressional Great Lakes Task Force, I am proud to be an original co-sponsor of this bipartisan legislation, which will strengthen federal partnerships and expand funding opportunities to advance the research, coordination, and conservation efforts needed to protect the Great Lakes — ensuring they remain a resource our communities can rely on for generations to come."" ""Michigan is the Great Lakes state, period. Jobs, recreation, and tourism across the Midwest depend on a healthy and flourishing Great Lakes ecosystem,"" said Congresswoman Stevens. ""I’m proud to work alongside my colleagues of both parties to ensure that Michigan receives our fair share of federal investment that will protect and preserve our Lakes for generations to come."" ""Protecting the Great Lakes means protecting our water, wildlife, and communities throughout the region,"" said Congressman Barrett. ""This bipartisan legislation will help bring federal resources to the table and strengthen the partnerships already working to preserve our state's natural resources. I’m proud to work with colleagues from across the region to ensure our Great Lakes remain healthy for generations to come."" ""As the largest freshwater system in the world, the Great Lakes are one of Michigan’s greatest assets,"" said Congresswoman Scholten. ""I’m proud to join my colleagues on both sides of the aisle in supporting the Regional Great Lakes Partnership Act. This commonsense bill will strengthen the research and coordination that keeps the Great Lakes region healthy. Investing in our Great Lakes is investing in our future, and it’s crucial that we conserve this resource for the next generation."" ""The Great Lakes Commission is grateful to Rep. Walberg for introducing this important legislation to designate the GLC as a regional partnership for the Great Lakes,"" said GLC Chair Timothy Bruno, “Great Lakes Program Coordinator at the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. ""This designation will allow the agency to build on its more than 70 years of regional leadership — fostering dialogue, building consensus, and advancing coordinated solutions to the Great Lakes’ most pressing challenges — to ensure the Great Lakes region continues to speak with a strong, unified voice. We look forward to working with our partners to realize the full benefits of this program for the region."" The Great Lakes Commission (GLC) brings together eight U.S. states and two Canadian provinces to protect the Great Lakes and promote economic growth in the Great Lakes basin. The GLC is composed of the States of Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin. NOAA’s Regional Ocean Partnerships (ROPs) coordinate interstate ocean and coastal resource management efforts and create opportunities for increased efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Although NOAA administers four Regional Ocean Partnerships (ROPs) across the Northeast, Mid‑Atlantic, Gulf, and West Coast, the Great Lakes currently lack an ROP. Designating the GLC as the region’s ROP will ensure the Great Lakes region receives its fair share of program funding. Companion legislation, introduced in the Senate by U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI) and Bernie Moreno (R-OH), has been advanced by the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee.",1,2026-09-30T10:57:52Z,2026-09-30T10:59:04Z https://mcclain.house.gov/2026/9/chairwoman-mcclain-announces-1-45-million-for-port-huron-township-sewer-upgrades,Chairwoman McClain Announces $1.45 Million for Port Huron Township Sewer Upgrades,2026-09-29,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,MI,Lisa C. McClain,M001136,mcclain.house.gov,mcclain,https://mcclain.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – House Republican Conference Chairwoman Lisa McClain (R-Mich.) announced that the Environmental Protection Agency is awarding $1,450,000 to Port Huron Township to modernize the aging Maywood Sanitary Sewer Pump Station to maintain public health in the local community. “The Maywood Sanitary Sewer Pump Station has served Port Huron Township for nearly 50 years, but it’s outlived its intended service life, leading to operational issues and costly repairs,” Chairwoman McClain said. “I'm proud to bring home this $1.45 million investment to modernize the sanitary sewer system, protect public health, and reduce messy backups. This gives Port Huron Township the infrastructure it needs to grow and succeed for the next five decades and beyond.” “Port Huron Township is grateful for Congresswoman McClain’s assistance in securing the EPA Grant to rehabilitate the Maywood Sanitary Lift Station,” said Bob Lewandowski, Supervisor of Port Huron Twp. “The current station has been running for almost 50 years, serving the residents of the neighborhood. We will construct a new station with up-to-date technology that will serve the residents for another 50 years and probably longer. It is great that we are getting federal funding back to our community where it came from. Thanks again to Congresswoman McClain and her staff for making this happen.” The Maywood pump station is critical to keeping sewage flowing safely through the surrounding sewer district, but the aging station has reached the end of its anticipated useful life. The project will rehabilitate the existing structure and replace aging equipment to reduce the risk of equipment failures and sewer backups. McClain requested funding for the Maywood project through the FY2023 appropriations process. ###",1,2026-09-30T10:57:52Z,2026-09-30T10:59:04Z https://mcclain.house.gov/2026/9/chairwoman-mcclain-applauds-new-rule-lowering-costs-for-american-drivers,Chairwoman McClain Applauds New Rule Lowering Costs for American Drivers,2026-09-29,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,MI,Lisa C. McClain,M001136,mcclain.house.gov,mcclain,https://mcclain.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON — House Republican Conference Chairwoman Lisa McClain (R-Mich.) released the following statement after the Department of Transportation finalized new fuel economy standards for passenger cars and light trucks. “The Biden Administration forced automakers to meet increasingly costly fuel-economy mandates and American families paid the price,” Chairwoman McClain said. “We ended that. President Trump’s new standards give automakers the freedom to build the cars and trucks Americans actually want, and they will save families an estimated $1,300 on a new vehicle. Over the next five years, that adds up to $13 billion in savings for Americans buying cars. That’s real money back in people’s pockets. This is what common sense looks like: more choice, lower costs, and Washington forced out of the way.” The rule lowers the projected fleetwide requirement to 34.9 miles per gallon by model year 2031. The Biden-era standards would have required automakers to reach a projected fleetwide average of 50.4 miles per gallon by 2031.",1,2026-09-30T10:57:52Z,2026-09-30T10:59:04Z https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases/walberg-honors-hillsdale-county-veteran-1,Walberg Honors Hillsdale County Veteran,2026-09-29,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,MI,Tim Walberg,W000798,walberg.house.gov,walberg,https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Yesterday, Congressman Tim Walberg (MI-05) recognized Turner Korotzer of Hillsdale as the Veteran of the Month for September. The Congressman presented Turner with the Congressional Record containing his remarks honoring Turner’s service and dedication to our nation. Turner enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 2015, serving proudly as a Network Administrator with the Headquarters Battalion of the 1st Marine Division at Camp Pendleton in California. During his service, Turner deployed twice to Kuwait and later to Syria with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit. In recognition of his service, Turner earned both the Navy Achievement Medal and the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal. After leaving the Marine Corps, Turner never stopped serving, shifting his efforts to the local veteran community. He became involved with several veteran service organizations, including the Hillsdale American Legion, where he took on a leadership role organizing Hillsdale’s annual Independence Day fireworks celebration. Turner has also demonstrated a strong commitment to supporting fellow veterans and fire departments across Hillsdale through his volunteer work with the Major Henry Holloway Canteen Unit. “It is a privilege to honor Turner as the Veteran of the Month for September,” said Rep. Walberg. “Turner’s service in the United States Marine Corps and his continued commitment to supporting his fellow veterans exemplifies the highest ideals of leadership, sacrifice, and service. Whether assisting veterans in need or volunteering throughout the Hillsdale community, Turner continues to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. His dedication to both our nation and community serves as an example for us all, and I am grateful for his continued service.” You can access pictures of the presentation here. Background Congressman Walberg’s office is accepting submissions for the Veteran of the Month program, an initiative to honor the exemplary contributions of veterans in Michigan’s 5th Congressional District. Each month, Congressman Walberg recognizes one outstanding veteran, celebrating their commitment to serving our community and their exceptional service in the military.",1,2026-09-30T10:57:52Z,2026-09-30T10:59:04Z https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-introduces-bipartisan-legislation-to-strengthen-railroad-inspector-workforce-and-improve-railway-safety,Peters Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Strengthen Railroad Inspector Workforce & Improve Railway Safety,2026-09-29,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC — U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) introduced bipartisan legislation to improve railroad inspector pay. The bill, which Peters’ introduced with U.S. Senator Jim Justice (R-WV), would increase the pay levels for Federal Rail Administration (FRA) inspectors and specialists for the first time since 1979. The bipartisan bill aims to strengthen and expand this critical workforce, improving railway safety in Michigan and across the country. As of 2023, there were 2,382 Michigan freight railroad employees, many of whom would be included in this pay increase. “The United States railway system is critical to the success of our entire economy. Federal railroad inspectors play a vital role in maintaining that system by ensuring railroad tracks, equipment, and operating practices remain safe and secure,” said Senator Peters, Ranking Member of the Commerce Subcommittee on Surface Transportation, Maritime, Freight, and Ports. “Making sure we can recruit and retain highly skilled professionals for this essential workforce will improve railway safety in communities across the country. This bipartisan, commonsense bill would help us do just that by providing federal rail inspectors with more competitive wages for the critical work they do.” “By tackling compensation for these critical safety positions, the senators are taking meaningful action to help the FRA recruit and retain the skilled professionals essential to overseeing railroad safety across the country. Fair pay is vital to attracting experienced talent and keeping qualified inspectors and specialists in federal service, rather than losing them to higher-paying opportunities elsewhere,” AFGE Local 2814 President Scott Hoose said. “I appreciate the bipartisan approach shown by Senators Peters and Justice. Railroad safety is a shared priority that crosses party lines. AFGE Local 2814 looks forward to continued progress on this legislation and stands ready to support efforts that give the FRA the tools and personnel needed to keep America’s railroads safe.” FRA inspectors enforce federal rail safety laws across approximately 160,000 miles of track nationwide, including 3,349 miles in Michigan alone. The current government pay structure leaves them one full pay level below comparable federal accident-investigation positions. As a result, the FRA has struggled with recruitment and retention of its safety inspector and specialist positions, potentially affecting rail safety enforcement and monitoring. By upgrading the pay scale, Peters’ bill aims to make these FRA positions more competitive to strengthen the workforce while supporting safer railroad operations. The legislation is supported by key stakeholders including the American Federation of Government Employees Local 2814 and the Transportation Trades Department, AFL-CIO. ###",1,2026-09-30T10:57:52Z,2026-09-30T10:59:04Z https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/09/29/slotkin-britt-delauro-bacon-introduce-bipartisan-bicameral-legislation-to-modernize-ovarian-cancer-prevention-and-care/,"Slotkin, Britt, DeLauro, Bacon Introduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Modernize Ovarian Cancer Prevention and Care",2026-09-29,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) and Katie Britt (R-AL), along with Representative Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) and Don Bacon (R-NE) introduced the Ovarian Cancer Improving and Modernizing Prevention, Access, Care, and Testing (IMPACT) Act, bipartisan, bicameral legislation to expand access to genetic testing, hereditary cancer risk assessment, and specialty care for patients and families affected by ovarian cancer. Ovarian cancer is the fifth-leading cause of cancer deaths among women in the United States, and roughly 80 percent of cases are detected only after the disease has reached an advanced stage. If caught early, the five-year survival rate exceeds 90 percent. However, there remains no reliable screening test for the disease. This means that genetic counseling, hereditary risk assessment, and provider awareness are critical tools for prevention and early detection. “No family should have to fight both a cancer diagnosis and their insurance company at the same time,” said Slotkin. “Women, especially in rural communities like Michigan, should be able to get the genetic testing and specialty care they need to catch this disease early or prevent it altogether. Our bill tackles this issue from every angle — awareness, outreach and access to care and testing — and I thank my colleagues from across the aisle as we all work to save lives.” “Too many women receive an ovarian cancer diagnosis only after the disease has advanced, when treatment options are limited and outcomes are far worse,” said Britt. “Knowledge is one of the most powerful tools we have, and every woman with a family history of ovarian cancer deserves to know her risk and have access to the screening and counseling that can help her make informed decisions about her health. I’m proud to join Senator Slotkin in this bipartisan effort to reauthorize Johanna’s Law, expand outreach to rural and underserved communities, and ensure genetic screening is covered for the women who need it most. Alabama has already shown national leadership in preventing gynecologic cancers, and this legislation builds on that progress so that where a woman lives or what her insurance plan covers doesn’t determine whether she can catch this disease early.” “I am a survivor of ovarian cancer by the grace of God and biomedical research,” said DeLauro. “I am proud to stand with my colleagues in introducing bipartisan, bicameral legislation that would strengthen ovarian cancer research, medical services, and outreach to women to ensure screening and good health. This Ovarian Cancer Month, I am committed to fighting for improved health outcomes for all women, so more and more women survive this deadly disease.” “Ovarian cancer affects thousands of women and families every year, including some of my closest friends, and too many cases are not caught until the disease has reached an advanced stage,” said Bacon. “Knowing the warning signs and having access to genetic counseling, testing and quality care can make a real difference. I’m pleased to join my colleagues on the bipartisan, bicameral Ovarian Cancer IMPACT Act to improve awareness, expand access to specialized care, including in rural communities, and help more women get the care they need sooner.” The Ovarian Cancer IMPACT Act would: Expand Insurance Coverage for Genetic and Genomic Testing: Require group and individual health plans, including grandfathered plans, to cover genetic counseling and testing (germline multi-gene panel testing, targeted testing, and tumor genomic profiling) for patients with a history of ovarian cancer, guideline-eligible endometrial cancer, or a family history of hereditary cancer syndromes. Cover Risk-Reducing Interventions: Ensure coverage for evidence-based risk-reducing surgeries and other risk management interventions for individuals identified as being at elevated hereditary risk, regardless of a personal cancer history. Reauthorize and Strengthen Johanna’s Law: Reauthorize the CDC’s national gynecologic cancer education campaign and authorize $20 million annually from FY2027–FY2031 to expand education and outreach on hereditary cancer risk, genetic counseling and testing, and evidence-based ovarian cancer prevention, including opportunistic salpingectomy, or fallopian tube removal. Expand Rural and Telehealth Access: Expands existing HRSA programs to include ovarian cancer and helps rural providers access ovarian cancer training and specialty expertise. Fund Demonstration Projects: Prioritize grants for outreach and education strategies in rural, underserved, and high-risk communities. Ensure Accountability: Require HHS to deliver an implementation roadmap to Congress within 180 days of enactment and comprehensive impact reports every three years through FY2032. The bill is introduced alongside a companion resolution to recognize September as National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month. “We have an evidence-based strategy to reduce ovarian cancer risk and save lives with salpingectomy but need solutions to remove barriers to this care. Every patient considering pelvic surgery deserves a conversation with their physician about whether risk-reducing salpingectomy is appropriate for them and aligns with their health, values, and goals. We urge health systems and insurers to actively remove barriers to implementation of this care. ACOG is proud to endorse the Ovarian Cancer IMPACT Act, which would expand awareness of and access to evidence-based prevention strategies, helping spare more patients and families from the devastating burden of ovarian cancer,” said Sandra E. Brooks, MD, MBA, FACOG, chief executive officer of the American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists. “The introduction of the Ovarian Cancer IMPACT Act is an important step forward for people affected by gynecologic cancers,” said Audra Moran, President and CEO of Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance. “We are incredibly grateful to Senators Slotkin and Britt and Representatives DeLauro and Bacon for their bipartisan leadership and commitment to advancing policies that will improve prevention, expand access to care in rural and underserved communities, and give patients and families more opportunities to understand and manage their cancer risk.” “FORCE applauds the introduction of this important legislation, which has the potential to save lives while reducing long-term healthcare costs,” said Lisa Schlager, BRCA1 mutation carrier and Vice President, Public Policy at FORCE: Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered. “Up to 20% of ovarian cancers and 15% of endometrial cancers are linked to inherited gene mutations. National medical guidelines recommend that everyone diagnosed with these cancers be offered genetic counseling and testing. While hereditary cancers represent only a subset of all cancer diagnoses, identifying individuals who have—or are predisposed to—these cancers is critical. They are the poster children for prevention, early detection, and targeted treatments.” See full text of the bill here. ###",1,2026-09-30T10:57:52Z,2026-09-30T10:59:04Z https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/09/29/slotkin-peters-padilla-demand-homeland-security-secretary-to-stand-up-to-trump-on-election-interference-not-send-ice-to-polls/,"Slotkin, Peters, Padilla Demand Homeland Security Secretary to Stand up to Trump on Election Interference, Not Send ICE to Polls",2026-09-29,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"WASHINGTON D.C. — U.S. Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), in an effort led by U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI) and Alex Padilla (D-CA), called on Department of Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin to stop any efforts to bring the 2026 midterm elections under federal control and erode public confidence in them. Slotkin has made demanding accountability from Mullin in election security issues a priority, ever since Mullin’s confirmation hearing. The Senators asked DHS to produce evidence backing up Mullin’s public statements that “thousands of non-citizens” had registered to vote. They also urged the Department to withdraw the new election-related requirements attached to Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) homeland security grants, deliver the full funding to the states, and put an immediate end to the so-called “Unlawful Voter Initiative” that a recent whistleblower brought to light. “We write to warn you against continued activities at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) that seek to undermine the Constitutional authority of both Congress and states to administer elections and defy the directions of federal courts. As Secretary of Homeland Security, you have promoted the President’s conspiracy theories about our elections, pressured states to participate in illegal activities, and explicitly threatened to reduce grant funding and initiate criminal investigations for those states that do not comply with the Administration’s demands,” wrote the Senators. The letter pushes back on Mullin’s unsubstantiated assertion that 250,000 noncitizens are registered to vote across four states. It also faults DHS for leaning on states to hand over sensitive voter roll data for screening through the Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements (SAVE) program, even though the Administration itself has conceded there are flaws in the data behind that system. “The 2026 midterm elections are already underway. Your unsubstantiated allegations of noncitizen voter fraud, public recitation of unreliable data, and unwarranted conditioning of continued grant funding for state election security measures on compliance with politically motivated requests for voter data appear to be calculated efforts to undermine confidence in our elections and risks wrongly disenfranchising voters,” the Senators continued. In addition to Slotkin, Peters, and Padilla, the letter is signed by Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DL), Chris Coons (D-DL), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), John Fetterman (D-PA), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Angus King (I-ME), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Patty Murray (D-WA), Jack Reed (D-RI), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Mark Warner (D-VA), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), and Ron Wyden (D-OR). Read the full text of the letter here. ###",1,2026-09-30T10:57:52Z,2026-09-30T10:59:04Z https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/09/29/slotkin-warren-demand-full-accounting-of-trumps-huge-tax-breaks-for-ai-and-tech-companies/,"Slotkin, Warren Demand Full Accounting of Trump’s Huge Tax Breaks for AI and Tech Companies",2026-09-29,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"WASHINGTON D.C. — U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) joined Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) in sending letters to the CEOs of Amazon, Meta, Alphabet, and Microsoft demanding answers and full transparency on the tax breaks they have received from President Trump, tax breaks they received because of their investments in AI and data center spending. “Americans across the country are worried about the impacts of artificial intelligence (AI) on their lives — from increased utility bills to threats of job losses and cyberattacks,” wrote the senators. “Rather than regulate AI to protect American families or address the nation’s affordability crisis, the Trump administration and its Republican allies in Congress have prioritized handing out colossal tax breaks to giant corporations.” Senators Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), and Tina Smith (D-MN) also signed the letters. Under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), passed by Trump and congressional Republicans last year, major tech companies can now write off billions of dollars in AI development costs, massively lowering what they owe in taxes. Newly released figures show these tax breaks are a key factor behind the 25% decline in corporate tax revenue this year, even as Big Tech’s own revenues and profits continue to skyrocket. “This enormous tax cut appears to have been driven in significant part by President Trump and Republicans’ tax breaks subsidizing your spending on AI,” continued the senators. These same tech giants have also poured money into influencing Republicans and the Trump administration. Each of the four companies gave $1 million to the President’s inauguration, and they spent millions more lobbying Congress and federal agencies in the run-up to OBBBA’s passage. The senators demanded these massive companies provide transparency on the tax breaks they received and disclose any lobbying they had done to receive them by October 11, 2026. “These tax breaks are not free—their cost has been imposed on American families via cuts to critical social services and a higher deficit,” wrote the senators. Full text of the letter to Amazon here. Full text of the letter to Meta here. Full text of the letter to Alphabet here. Full text of the letter to Microsoft here. ###",1,2026-09-30T10:57:52Z,2026-09-30T10:59:04Z https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases/barrett-joins-midwest-colleagues-introducing-bipartisan-legislation-bolster,Barrett Joins Midwest Colleagues in Introducing Bipartisan Legislation to Bolster Great Lakes Conservation,2026-09-28,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,MI,Tom Barrett,B001321,barrett.house.gov,barrett,https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Today, Congressmen Tom Barrett (MI-07), Tim Walberg (MI-05), Hillary Scholten (MI-03), Bill Huizenga (MI-04), Debbie Dingell (MI-06), Haley Stevens (MI-11), Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), and Dave Joyce (OH-14) introduced the Regional Great Lakes Partnership Act, a bipartisan, bicameral bill to bolster federal support for Great Lakes research and conservation. This legislation designates the Great Lakes Commission (GLC) as the official Regional Great Lakes Partnership within the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Regional Ocean Partnerships Program. This designation ensures that the Great Lakes region receives a fair share of program funding, delivering federal resources to support the GLC’s longstanding work to coordinate Great Lakes research and conservation efforts. “Protecting the Great Lakes means protecting our water, wildlife, and communities throughout the region,” said Barrett. “This bipartisan legislation will help bring federal resources to the table and strengthen the partnerships already working to preserve our state's natural resources. I’m proud to work with colleagues from across the region to ensure our Great Lakes remain healthy for generations to come.” “As the largest freshwater system in the world, the Great Lakes are central to Michigan’s economy, identity, and long‑term prosperity,” said Walberg. “The bipartisan Regional Great Lakes Partnership Act ensures the region receives its fair share of federal support, strengthening the research and conservation work needed to protect this indispensable resource. We must equip our partners with the tools necessary to safeguard the waters and communities that rely on a healthy Great Lakes ecosystem.” “As the largest freshwater system in the world, the Great Lakes are one of Michigan’s greatest assets,” said Scholten. “I’m proud to join my colleagues on both sides of the aisle in supporting the Regional Great Lakes Partnership Act. This commonsense bill will strengthen the research and coordination that keeps the Great Lakes region healthy. Investing in our Great Lakes is investing in our future, and it’s crucial that we conserve this resource for the next generation.” “As Co-Chair of the bipartisan Congressional Great Lakes Task Force, I have made it my mission to have the federal government recognize the Great Lakes as a national priority,” said Huizenga. “The Regional Great Lakes Partnership Act furthers this objective by enhancing the Great Lakes Commission’s steadfast work to protect and conserve Michigan’s most valuable natural resource.” “The Great Lakes and their connected waterways are invaluable resources for Michigan and the United States,” said Dingell. “As a co-chair of the Congressional Great Lakes Task Force, I am proud to help introduce this bipartisan bill to strengthen federal support for Great Lakes research and conservation for future generations to enjoy these national treasures.” “Michigan is the Great Lakes state, period. Jobs, recreation, and tourism across the Midwest depend on a healthy and flourishing Great Lakes ecosystem,” said Stevens. “I’m proud to work alongside my colleagues of both parties to ensure that Michigan receives our fair share of federal investment that will protect and preserve our Lakes for generations to come.” “As a Co-Chair of the bipartisan Congressional Great Lakes Task Force, I helped introduce this legislation to close a gap in a national program that benefits only coastal ocean states. The bill continues our work together to ensure the Federal Government levels the playing field to commit equivalent, well‑deserved resources to our Great Lakes region,” said Kaptur. “The Great Lakes are central and essential to Northwest Ohio’s livelihood and economic well-being, and enabling the Great Lakes Commission to participate in this NOAA program will strengthen data sharing, enhance information access, and improve management of our coastal and ecosystem resources. In Lake Erie’s Western Basin, home to the shallowest and southernmost shoreline in the Great Lakes system, we face these challenges in real ways and will continue to lead in advancing research and information exchange for the benefit of our entire region.” “The Great Lakes are a critical resource for the economies and communities that surround them,” said Joyce. “As Co-Chair of the Congressional Great Lakes Task Force, I am proud to be an original co-sponsor of this bipartisan legislation, which will strengthen federal partnerships and expand funding opportunities to advance the research, coordination, and conservation efforts needed to protect the Great Lakes — ensuring they remain a resource our communities can rely on for generations to come.” “The Great Lakes Commission is grateful to Rep. Walberg for introducing this important legislation to designate the GLC as a regional partnership for the Great Lakes,” said GLC Chair Timothy Bruno, Great Lakes Program Coordinator at the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. “This designation will allow the agency to build on its more than 70 years of regional leadership — fostering dialogue, building consensus, and advancing coordinated solutions to the Great Lakes’ most pressing challenges — to ensure the Great Lakes region continues to speak with a strong, unified voice. We look forward to working with our partners to realize the full benefits of this program for the region.” Background The Great Lakes Commission (GLC) brings together eight U.S. states and two Canadian provinces to protect the Great Lakes and promote economic growth in the Great Lakes Basin. The GLC is composed of the States of Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin. NOAA’s Regional Ocean Partnerships (ROPs) coordinate interstate ocean and coastal resource management efforts and create opportunities for increased efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Although NOAA administers four Regional Ocean Partnerships (ROPs) across the Northeast, Mid‑Atlantic, Gulf, and West Coast, the Great Lakes currently lack an ROP. Designating the GLC as the region’s ROP will ensure the Great Lakes region receives its fair share of program funding. Companion legislation, introduced in the Senate by U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI) and Bernie Moreno (R-OH), has been advanced by the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee.",1,2026-09-29T11:07:12Z,2026-09-29T11:08:49Z https://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7398,"Dingell Statement on Trump Administration Lowering Fuel Economy Standards, Ceding Ground to China",2026-09-28,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,MI,Debbie Dingell,D000624,debbiedingell.house.gov,debbiedingell,https://debbiedingell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) released the following statement in the wake of the Trump Administration’s decision to lower fuel economy standards in internal combustion engine-powered cars: “Today’s decision risks putting the American automotive industry at a competitive disadvantage while the rest of the world races ahead, and it also ignores the more pressing issue working men and women are facing right now with the cost-of-living crisis and the rising price of gas. Americans should have the freedom to choose the vehicle that works best for them, whether that’s electric, hybrid, or an internal combustion engine. But consumer choice and American leadership are not mutually exclusive,” said Congresswoman Dingell. “The global auto industry is changing rapidly, and China and other countries are investing heavily in the technologies that will define the future. The global market wants electric vehicles, and we cannot afford to fall behind. Our auto industry cannot continue to be a political ping-pong ball every four years. We need stable policies that make transportation more affordable, support good-paying American jobs, and give our industry the certainty they need to invest, innovate, and compete. Michigan put the world on wheels, and I intend to make sure we remain competitive in the global marketplace. We need policies that give consumers choices while ensuring the next generation of vehicles, including EVs, are developed and built right here in America.”",1,2026-09-29T11:07:12Z,2026-09-29T11:08:49Z https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases/walberg-colleagues-introduce-bipartisan-bicameral-legislation-bolster-great,"Walberg, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Bolster Great Lakes Conservation Efforts",2026-09-28,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,MI,Tim Walberg,W000798,walberg.house.gov,walberg,https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Representatives Tim Walberg (R-MI), Marcy Kaptur (D-OH), Bill Huizenga (R-MI), Debbie Dingell (D-MI), David Joyce (R-OH), Haley Stevens (D-MI), Tom Barrett (R-MI), and Hillary Scholten (D-MI) introduced the Regional Great Lakes Partnership Act, a bipartisan, bicameral bill to bolster federal support for Great Lakes research and conservation. This legislation designates the Great Lakes Commission (GLC) as the official Regional Great Lakes Partnership within the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Regional Ocean Partnerships Program. This designation ensures that the Great Lakes region receives a fair share of program funding, delivering federal resources to support the GLC’s longstanding work to coordinate Great Lakes research and conservation efforts. ""As the largest freshwater system in the world, the Great Lakes are central to Michigan’s economy, identity, and long‑term prosperity,” said Rep. Walberg. ""The bipartisan Regional Great Lakes Partnership Act ensures the region receives its fair share of federal support, strengthening the research and conservation work needed to protect this indispensable resource. We must equip our partners with the tools necessary to safeguard the waters and communities that rely on a healthy Great Lakes ecosystem."" ""As a Co-Chair of the bipartisan Congressional Great Lakes Task Force, I helped introduce this legislation to close a gap in a national program that benefits only coastal ocean states. The bill continues our work together to ensure the Federal Government levels the playing field to commit equivalent, well‑deserved resources to our Great Lakes region,"" said Rep. Kaptur. ""The Great Lakes are central and essential to Northwest Ohio’s livelihood and economic wellbeing, and enabling the Great Lakes Commission to participate in this NOAA program will strengthen data sharing, enhance information access, and improve management of our coastal and ecosystem resources. In Lake Erie’s Western Basin, home to the shallowest and southernmost shoreline in the Great Lakes system, we face these challenges in real ways and will continue to lead in advancing research and information exchange for the benefit of our entire region."" ""As Co-Chair of the bipartisan Congressional Great Lakes Task Force, I have made it my mission to have the federal government recognize the Great Lakes as a national priority,"" said. Rep. Huizenga. ""The Regional Great Lakes Partnership Act furthers this objective by enhancing the Great Lakes Commission’s steadfast work to protect and conserve Michigan’s most valuable natural resource."" ""The Great Lakes and their connected waterways are invaluable resources for Michigan and the United States,"" said Rep. Dingell. ""As a co-chair of the Congressional Great Lakes Task Force, I am proud to help introduce this bipartisan bill to strengthen federal support for Great Lakes research and conservation for future generations to enjoy these national treasures."" ""The Great Lakes are a critical resource for the economies and communities that surround them,"" said Rep. Joyce. ""As Co-Chair of the Congressional Great Lakes Task Force, I am proud to be an original co-sponsor of this bipartisan legislation, which will strengthen federal partnerships and expand funding opportunities to advance the research, coordination, and conservation efforts needed to protect the Great Lakes — ensuring they remain a resource our communities can rely on for generations to come."" ""Michigan is the Great Lakes state, period. Jobs, recreation, and tourism across the Midwest depend on a healthy and flourishing Great Lakes ecosystem,"" said Rep. Stevens. ""I’m proud to work alongside my colleagues of both parties to ensure that Michigan receives our fair share of federal investment that will protect and preserve our Lakes for generations to come."" ""Protecting the Great Lakes means protecting our water, wildlife, and communities throughout the region,"" said Rep. Barrett. ""This bipartisan legislation will help bring federal resources to the table and strengthen the partnerships already working to preserve our state's natural resources. I’m proud to work with colleagues from across the region to ensure our Great Lakes remain healthy for generations to come."" ""As the largest freshwater system in the world, the Great Lakes are one of Michigan’s greatest assets,"" said Rep. Scholten. ""I’m proud to join my colleagues on both sides of the aisle in supporting the Regional Great Lakes Partnership Act. This commonsense bill will strengthen the research and coordination that keeps the Great Lakes region healthy. Investing in our Great Lakes is investing in our future, and it’s crucial that we conserve this resource for the next generation."" ""The Great Lakes Commission is grateful to Rep. Walberg for introducing this important legislation to designate the GLC as a regional partnership for the Great Lakes,"" said GLC Chair Timothy Bruno, Great Lakes Program Coordinator at the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. ""This designation will allow the agency to build on its more than 70 years of regional leadership — fostering dialogue, building consensus, and advancing coordinated solutions to the Great Lakes’ most pressing challenges — to ensure the Great Lakes region continues to speak with a strong, unified voice. We look forward to working with our partners to realize the full benefits of this program for the region."" Background The Great Lakes Commission (GLC) brings together eight U.S. states and two Canadian provinces to protect the Great Lakes and promote economic growth in the Great Lakes basin. The GLC is composed of the States of Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin. NOAA’s Regional Ocean Partnerships (ROPs) coordinate interstate ocean and coastal resource management efforts and create opportunities for increased efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Although NOAA administers four Regional Ocean Partnerships (ROPs) across the Northeast, Mid‑Atlantic, Gulf, and West Coast, the Great Lakes currently lack an ROP. Designating the GLC as the region’s ROP will ensure the Great Lakes region receives its fair share of program funding. Companion legislation, introduced in the Senate by U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI) and Bernie Moreno (R-OH), has been advanced by the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee.",1,2026-09-29T11:07:12Z,2026-09-29T11:08:49Z https://mcdonaldrivet.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mcdonald-rivet-honors-anniversary-grand-blanc-church-jesus-christ-latter,Rep. McDonald Rivet Honors the Anniversary of the Grand Blanc Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Attack,2026-09-28,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,MI,Kristen McDonald Rivet,M001237,mcdonaldrivet.house.gov,mcdonaldrivet,https://mcdonaldrivet.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"FLINT— Today, Congresswoman Kristen McDonald Rivet (MI-08) released the following statement commemorating the one-year anniversary of the attack on the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc, Michigan. “One year ago, while gathering to worship, parishioners at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Grand Blanc suffered an unimaginable terror attack. I join the community in remembering the four victims, extending our prayers to their families and fellow congregants, and standing with the community as we remember the tragedies of that day. “Today, we also honor the heroic first responders who were on the scene in a matter of seconds. The remarkable speed and decision-making of our 911 dispatchers, law enforcement officers, firefighters, and paramedics saved lives. “In the days, weeks, and months since, neighbors have come together to grieve, heal, and find the light under the motto, ‘Grand Blanc, Better Together.’ In the wake of an unimaginable tragedy, the Church and its community have shown us the power of faith and hope. As they break ground tonight, all of mid-Michigan will be behind them with love and support.” Later tonight, Congresswoman McDonald Rivet will join the Church at the groundbreaking of its new stake center.",1,2026-09-30T10:57:52Z,2026-09-30T10:59:04Z https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases/barrett-epa-administrator-zeldin-highlight-reliable-energy-environmental,"Barrett, EPA Administrator Zeldin Highlight Reliable Energy, Environmental Protection Efforts in Mid-Michigan",2026-09-26,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,MI,Tom Barrett,B001321,barrett.house.gov,barrett,https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Stockbridge, Mich. — Today, Congressman Tom Barrett welcomed U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Lee Zeldin to mid-Michigan to highlight efforts to unleash reliable energy production and promote critical research to help protect the environment from harmful chemicals. The officials visited Enbridge’s Stockbridge Terminal and met with local energy leaders before heading to Michigan State University to see how researchers are studying the potential lasting effects and possible mitigation of PFAS chemicals. While at Enbridge, Barrett announced his support for pausing diesel exports to help rein in prices for transporting goods across the country. “Hard-working families deserve to have confidence that they’ll be able to reliably heat their homes in the winter. Secure pipelines are the safest, most efficient, and most dependable way to transport fuel throughout our state,” said Barrett. “Prices at the pump and on utility bills are too expensive right now, and that’s why I’m continuing my work in Congress to unleash American energy production, expand refinery capacity, and protect the infrastructure that safely, cost-effectively transports fuel to and from those refineries. It’s also why I support pausing diesel exports to rein in prices that make shipping groceries and other products more expensive. Thank you to Administrator Zeldin for coming to mid-Michigan to see the work so many in our region are doing to fuel our communities and to protect people and our natural resources.” “Energy fuels every part of our lives, but for years, Washington bureaucrats abused power to restrict critical energy infrastructure,” said Administrator Lee Zeldin. “At the Trump EPA, we are following the law, applying common sense, and helping to unleash U.S. energy dominance. As a result, good-paying energy jobs are being protected and created, and trillions of dollars in regulatory costs are being cut, while simultaneously fulfilling our statutory obligations and protecting our environment. It is great to be working alongside Representative Barrett to deliver for the American public.” The Stockbridge Terminal is a crude oil tank facility which allows for the temporary storage of crude oil as it moves through the Enbridge pipeline system in mid-Michigan, connecting supply with numerous regional refineries. It serves as an important hub in Enbridge’s large North American network of critical pipelines, which are the safest and most affordable way to transport oil and natural gas. Barrett and Zeldin toured the facility and then met with leaders in Michigan’s energy industry. During the roundtable conversation, the group discussed the importance of expanding reliable energy production and maintaining critical infrastructure to safely, efficiently transport fuel for Michigan residents. Industry leaders also emphasized the need to build more refinery capacity to process raw materials into usable fuels. Barrett has made boosting American energy production a priority, helping pass critical reforms in the Working Families Tax Cuts Act (H.R. 1) that will increase domestic production and help lower costs in the long run. He has long championed policies to promote competition and encourage production of affordable, reliable energy. Barrett and Zeldin then met with researchers and toured Michigan State University’s Center for PFAS Research. University scientists are studying the impact on human health, agriculture, and the environment from per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances — long-lasting chemicals that break down very slowly — as well as how to mitigate any harm. Background: The Working Families Tax Cuts Act (H.R. 1) boosted American energy production by authorizing new oil and gas leases and undoing red tape imposed during the Biden administration. The historic law removed subsidies and carveouts for special interests, providing a level playing field that allows companies producing oil, natural gas, wind, solar, nuclear, or other energy sources to compete, innovate, and provide more efficient energy.",1,2026-09-27T10:23:37Z,2026-09-27T10:25:08Z https://bergman.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1540,"Bergman, Van Drew, Davis, Golden introduce SMILE for Veterans Act",2026-09-25,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,MI,Jack Bergman,B001301,bergman.house.gov,bergman,https://bergman.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Last week, Reps. Jack Bergman, Jeff Van Drew, Don Davis, and Jared Golden introduced the SMILE for Veterans Act, bipartisan legislation establishing a Department of Veterans Affairs pilot program to reimburse community-based dental providers for care provided to rural Veterans. Under current law, only about 15 percent of the nearly nine million Veterans enrolled in VA health care are eligible for VA dental services. Eligibility is generally limited to Veterans with a service-connected dental condition, a 100 percent disability rating, or former prisoner-of-war status. “For too many Veterans in rural communities, basic dental care is either too far away or simply out of reach,” said Rep. Jack Bergman. “The SMILE for Veterans Act offers a practical solution by connecting Veterans with trusted dental providers already serving their communities. Rather than building an expensive new federal system from the ground up, this legislation uses existing local providers to deliver care efficiently and closer to home.” Efforts to broadly expand dental coverage through the VA have faced significant cost and capacity challenges, including the need for additional personnel, facilities, and community-care infrastructure. The SMILE for Veterans Act takes a targeted approach by creating a reimbursement pathway for existing community-based dental providers to serve rural Veterans. By leveraging providers and infrastructure already in place, the legislation would expand access to dental care in underserved communities without requiring the VA to build a new system from the ground up. “I spent 30 years as a dentist, and I can tell you that putting off dental care usually only makes things worse,” said Rep. Jeff Van Drew. “For veterans living in rural communities, sometimes the hardest part is simply finding a dentist close enough to get the care they need. That should not be the case. The SMILE for Veterans Act is a practical way to connect veterans with that care closer to home. To me, that is common sense.” “Quality dental care is a critical part of keeping our veterans healthy, and too often, veterans in rural communities face significant challenges getting the care they need. The bipartisan SMILE for Veterans Act would give community providers across eastern North Carolina a way to deliver that care closer to home. Our veterans kept their promise to our nation, and we must always keep ours to them,” said Rep. Don Davis. “VA health care is an essential benefit for our nation’s veterans, but for too long a lack of dental coverage has been a massive gap in care. The mouth is part of the body, and our veterans shouldn’t have to jump through hoops to get basic dental care. I’m proud to work with Reps. Bergman, Davis and Van Drew on the SMILE Act, which takes a smart first step toward more comprehensive coverage by focusing on rural areas where barriers to care are the highest and community providers that can help close the gap,” said Rep. Jared Golden. The SMILE for Veterans Act is supported by AMVETS, the National Rural Health Association, and the CareQuest Institute for Oral Health. In 2024, the CareQuest Institute funded 10 projects across the country to identify the barriers Veterans face in getting oral health care. The Upper Peninsula Commission for Area Progress (UPCAP) was among the recipients, and with the help of the funding, was able to hold community forums across the region. The forums brought together Veterans, servicemembers, families and caregivers, dental providers, insurers and health plans, and policymakers to discuss Veteran oral health and what keeps Veterans from getting care. The project, led by Frank Lombard, UPCAP’s U.P. Veterans Program Manager, produced troubling findings about the dental health and unmet needs of Veterans in rural Michigan. One survey of 835 Veterans found: Poor oral health: More than a third of Veterans surveyed rated their oral health as only fair or poor. Veterans are pulling their own teeth: 32 Veterans reported extracting one of their own teeth during or after military service because they couldn't get in to see a dentist – 1 in 8 of those who answered the question. Among Veterans who rated their oral health as poor, the rate was more than 1 in 4. Widespread tooth loss: More than 75 percent of respondents who answered reported losing two or more teeth to decay or gum disease. Nearly 40 percent have lost six or more. Enrolled in VA care, but no dental benefit: 83 percent of respondents are enrolled in VA health care, yet 44 percent reported they are not eligible for VA dental care, with another 32 percent unsure whether they qualify. Fewer than 2% reported being service-connected for dental care. No dental insurance: Nearly 37 percent of Veterans reported having no dental insurance. Among those rating their oral health as poor, more than half are uninsured. Cost is the leading barrier: Affordability was the most frequently cited reason for not visiting the dentist more often. That includes 43 percent of Veterans in poor oral health. Long gaps in care: Nearly a third of Veterans had not seen a dentist in more than a year. More than 20 percent had gone three or more years. Among Veterans in poor oral health, 58 percent had not had a dental visit in the past year. “The CareQuest Institute for oral health generously provided funding for the Upper Peninsula Commission for Area Progress to conduct a rural Veteran oral health survey across our region. The results revealed systemic issues regarding problems with Veteran access to dental care. Although the majority of the 835 Veterans who completed the survey reported being enrolled in VA healthcare (696/83%), only 162 (19.4%) reported being eligible for dental services through the VA. Approximately 34% of Veterans reported their oral health as being fair (166) or poor (123). 307 Veterans reported having no dental insurance and 15 reported being unsure if they had any coverage. Lack of eligibility for dental care through the VA and the cost of care were some of the most frequent barriers highlighted in the survey results. Those who reported paying the most out-of-pocket for dental care were middle and lower income categories. The survey also revealed that many Veterans are struggling with serious and painful dental problems such as broken and cracked teeth, cavities, and abscesses. 32 veterans who completed the rural Veteran oral health survey even reported having to extract one of their own teeth during or after military service because they could not get into a dentist in time. No Veteran should ever have to pull one of their own teeth after the sacrifices they have made. This is a problem that must be solved,” said Frank Lombard. “No Veteran should struggle to get the dental care they need because of where they live. For veterans in rural communities, limited options and long distances can make accessing oral health care especially difficult, and we all have a responsibility to help close those gaps,” said Melissa Burroughs, Senior Director of Public Policy at CareQuest Institute for Oral Health. “This legislation is an important step in addressing longstanding barriers to care for rural veterans, and it’s encouraging to see leaders from both parties working together on such a critical need.”",1,2026-09-26T09:43:57Z,2026-09-26T09:44:55Z https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases/icymi-rep-haley-stevens-has-new-bill-lower-retirement-age-americans-who-work,ICYMI: Rep. Haley Stevens Has New Bill to Lower Retirement Age For Americans Who Work With Their Hands,2026-09-25,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,MI,Haley M. Stevens,S001215,stevens.house.gov,stevens,https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"September 25, 2026 WASHINGTON, D.C. – In case you missed it, Michigan Congresswoman Haley Stevens introduced the Blue Collar Social Security Fairness Act to lower the Social Security retirement age to 60 for workers in physically demanding careers. The legislation would apply to physically demanding occupations, including jobs in manufacturing, construction, roofing, nursing, and more. The Social Security Administration would be responsible for identifying and regularly updating the list of qualifying occupations. Here’s what Michiganders are seeing about Rep. Haley Stevens’ Blue Collar Social Security Fairness Act: CNBC: New bill would lower Social Security retirement age for physically demanding jobs By Lorie Konish Rep. Haley Stevens, D-Mich., on Wednesday introduced a new bill that would lower Social Security’s full retirement age for workers in physically demanding jobs. Currently, the earliest Social Security retirement age is 62, though beneficiaries receive reduced monthly checks for starting that soon. By waiting until full retirement age — that’s 67 for individuals born in 1960 or later — they may receive 100% of the benefits they’ve earned. Yet for blue-collar workers, staying longer in physically demanding jobs in order to reach those age milestones may be difficult, according to Stevens’ proposal. Individuals who have physically demanding jobs are at risk of exiting the workforce earlier than planned, which can interfere with their ability to have a secure retirement, according to 2022 research from the Schwartz Center for Economic Policy Analysis at The New School. CBS News: New bill would lower Social Security retirement age for some workers By Mary Cunningham Among the various proposals for bolstering Social Security is raising the retirement age at which Americans can claim full benefits. One lawmaker instead wants to lower it. Stevens has said that lowering the retirement age for blue-collar workers is necessary to help those who may struggle working into their 60s, given that such jobs are often physically demanding. ""Michiganders who work with their hands shouldn't be forced to wait until their bodies give out to retire,"" she said in a statement on Thursday in unveiling the legislation in Washington, D.C. Newsweek: Millions of Americans Could Claim Social Security Early Under New Bill By Aliss Hingham Some Americans working in physically demanding jobs could claim full Social Security retirement benefits at age 60 under a new bill introduced in Congress. The proposal would create an exception to existing Social Security rules for workers who have spent enough of their careers in physically demanding jobs, allowing them to receive unreduced retirement benefits seven years before the current full retirement age. “If we want to honor the dignity of work in this country, we need to lower the retirement age for physical laborers,” said Stevens. Fast Company: Social Security retirement age would be lower for ‘blue collar’ workers under proposed bill: What that means By Sarah Fielding As things stand, any American born in 1960 or later can’t access their full Social Security benefits until the age of 67. A new bill is hoping to change that. “Michiganders who work with their hands shouldn’t have to work until their bodies give out to retire,” Stevens said in a statement shared on X. “If you put in the work, you deserve the retirement you earned.” Almost 40% of working U.S. civilians work a job that requires lifting, carrying, pushing, pulling, and other physically demanding activities. MLive: Proposal would lower Social Security’s full retirement age to 60 for some workers By Leada Gore A new proposal would lower Social Security’s full retirement age for some workers in physically demanding jobs. Rep. Haley Stevens, D-Michigan, introduced the ‘Blue Collar Social Security Fairness Act’ this week. The bill would change full retirement age (FRA) – the point at which people can qualify for full Social Security benefits – to 60 for people in fields such as construction, roofing, manufacturing and nursing. Under the bill, the Social Security Administration would set a list of qualifying jobs and update it every three years. Deadline Detroit: Haley Stevens Introduces Bill To Lower the Social Security Age For Americans With Physically Demanding Jobs By Allan Lengel Democratic Congresswoman Haley Stevens on Wednesday announced proposed legislation — the Blue Collar Social Security Fairness Act — that would allow people with physically demanding jobs to collect full Social Security benefits at age 60. “Michiganders who work with their hands shouldn’t be forced to wait until their bodies give out to retire,” Stevens said. The Independent: New Social Security bill would lower retirement age to 60 for some workers By Rachel Dobkin The Blue Collar Social Security Fairness Act was introduced by Representative Haley Stevens, a Michigan Democrat, Thursday. The bill would allow Americans who work with their hands to collect full Social Security retirement benefits when they turn 60. “I look forward to bringing together my colleagues in Congress to fix this glaring issue for Michigan workers, strengthen Social Security, and ensure its solvency for generations of Americans to come,” said Stevens. Those eligible for full retirement benefits at 60 would include workers in construction, roofing, nursing, manufacturing and other physically demanding jobs WDIV-DET (NBC) — Detroit, MI A new bill in Congress could lower the full Social Security retirement age to 60 for some workers. Michigan Congresswoman Haley Stevens, introducing the Blue Collar Social Security Fairness Act, aimed at people in physically demanding jobs like construction, nursing and manufacturing. Under this proposal, workers would need to work a certain amount of years in qualifying jobs to get those full benefits at 60, the current full retirement age is 67. ###",1,2026-09-26T09:43:57Z,2026-09-26T09:44:55Z https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/photos-peters-participates-in-pavilion-dedication-ceremony-at-pontiac-oaks-park,PHOTOS: Peters Participates in Pavilion Dedication Ceremony at Pontiac Oaks Park,2026-09-25,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"PONTIAC, MI — U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) was honored on Friday, September 25th during a ceremony at the new Pontiac Oaks Park, formerly Hawthorne Park, in Pontiac. During the event, the Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commission dedicated a new pavilion in honor of Senator Peters to recognize his advocacy for federal funding for Michigan communities during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the lasting impacts of those resources across Oakland County. Peters helped pass the American Rescue Plan into law in 2021, a robust pandemic aid package which provided federal support to local communities, including funding for projects to rebuild essential community spaces. The Pontiac Oaks Park revitalization project leveraged a $1.3 million investment made possible by Senator Peters’ efforts to pass the bill into law. “When faced with an unprecedented crisis like the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s imperative that we come together and fight for the resources needed to help Michigan communities come back even stronger. That’s why I made it a top priority to ensure the federal pandemic response included investments for local projects like this one to improve infrastructure and revitalize public spaces,” said Senator Peters. “The newly renovated Pontiac Oaks Park is a prime example of what’s possible when federal, state, and local officials work together to achieve a common goal. I feel deeply honored to receive this recognition and I’m thrilled to celebrate this new community space alongside residents and partners.” To download photos from the event, click here. The funding secured by Peters helped to support numerous upgrades at Pontiac Oaks Park, including a fishing pier, playground and play pockets, a paved trail, a disc golf course, picnic pavilions and restroom improvements. ""Pontiac residents have seen an important community space given new life, and that is something worth celebrating,"" Pontiac Mayor Mike McGuinness said. ""Families now have a welcoming, high-quality park close to home where they can gather, play, walk, fish and enjoy the outdoors. We are grateful for the partnership with Oakland County Parks and for the investment that has made the revitalization of Pontiac Oaks possible."" The Pontiac Oaks Park revitalization was completed as part of Oakland County’s Healthy Communities Park and Outdoor Recreation Investment Plan, which combined $15 million in APRA funding with an additional $5.2 million from Oakland County Parks. The project has improved public spaces throughout Oakland County. ""Senator Peters was an early advocate for making sure local communities had the federal support they needed to respond to the pandemic and recover. That support opened a rare opportunity to build transformational, long-term partnerships with local governments and invest more than $20 million to revitalize parks and public spaces across Oakland County. For decades to come, families will enjoy places like Pontiac Oaks, and the Peters Pavilion will stand as a reminder of Senator Peters' important role in making these investments possible,"" said Chris Ward, Director of Oakland County Parks. ###",1,2026-09-26T09:43:57Z,2026-09-26T09:44:55Z https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases/barrett-helps-introduce-bipartisan-bill-increase-transparency-ban-data-centers,"Barrett Helps Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Increase Transparency, Ban Data Centers NDAs",2026-09-24,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,MI,Tom Barrett,B001321,barrett.house.gov,barrett,https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Today, Congressmen Tom Barrett (MI-07), Greg Landsman (OH-01), and Jamie Raskin (MD-08) introduced the No Secrets for Data Centers Act to prohibit non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) by government officials to conceal details of data center projects from the public. The bipartisan bill, which applies to federal, state, and local officials, builds on the No Data Center NDAs Act Barrett introduced last month to prohibit members of Congress from signing NDAs to hide data center details. The legislation comes as government officials are increasingly signing NDAs with data center developers, keeping local residents in the dark about how the projects could affect natural resources and electric rates. “Local residents must have the final say about data centers in their communities, and that means they need to know all the facts so they can make an informed decision,” Barrett said. “The recent surge in NDAs is keeping people in the dark about how a data center might affect their land, their water, and their electric bills — until it’s too late. Blocking these confidentiality agreements is an important step in our fight to increase transparency and protect citizens’ right to decide what is best for their community.” “Big Tech needs to be transparent about these deals, not force local officials to sign NDAs and keep secrets from their communities,” said Landsman. “That means no more NDAs. Transparency can’t just be a promise – it needs to be law.” “The American people have a right to know how data centers being built in their communities will affect local utilities, the local environment, and the local economy, and who will be responsible if and when things go wrong,” said Raskin. “Yet throughout the country, local officials are blocked from discussing these projects with their constituents because of the Non-Disclosure Agreements Big Tech companies are imposing to cloak these projects in secrecy. I’m proud to introduce this bill with Rep. Landsman to ban these corporate gag orders and make sure no public official is stifled in their most fundamental duty: answering to the people they represent and protecting their interests.” The new bill also comes the week after Barrett and the U.S. House of Representatives approved the Ratepayer Protection Act to require large-load energy customers, such as data centers, to cover the full costs of increased grid capacity. Background The No Secrets for Data Centers Act would prohibit and invalidate NDAs signed by government officials to conceal details of data center projects. NDAs have gained attention in Michigan in recent years, with many federal, state, and local officials signing secrecy deals about a variety of proposed corporate projects. The bill would also prohibit data center operators from receiving government incentives if the conditions include entering an agreement to keep information about the project confidential. Michigan currently prevents disclosure of details about data centers receiving targeted tax incentives, and other states have adopted similar confidentiality provisions. Barrett has been a leader on reining in government overreach and increasing transparency and accountability for artificial intelligence and data centers. He voted against Michigan’s corporate welfare for data centers when he was a state lawmaker, and he’s introduced or co-sponsored the following bills in Congress: The Protecting Local Control of Data Centers Act (H.R. 10119) to prohibit federal agencies from overriding local land-use, zoning, siting, or permitting authority related to data centers. The No Data Center NDAs Act (H.R. 10118) would prohibit members of Congress from signing non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) about data centers, including any information about possible locations or how much water or energy a facility is expected to consume. The Doctors Not AI Act (H.R. 10210), introduced by Barrett and Landsman, to ensure that artificial intelligence cannot make or dictate health insurance coverage decisions involving medical judgment. The Children Harmed by AI Technology (CHAT) Act (H.R. 7218) to require AI chatbots to implement age verification measures to protect minors. The bill requires parental consent for minors using chatbots, bans chatbots from engaging in sexually explicit communications with minors, and requires chatbots to notify a minor’s parent if the minor’s chat shows signs of suicidal ideation. The AI Threat Output and Monitoring Incident Containment Act (H.R. 9965) to test advanced AI systems to prevent risks to nuclear safety. The Human Authority over Autonomous Weapons Act (H.R. 9729) to ensure that no autonomous or artificial intelligence-enabled weapon system used by the United States military can carry out an intentionally lethal strike without meaningful human oversight or a human decision-maker in the loop. The VA Claims AI Accountability Act (H.R. 10418) to require VA employees — not AI — to make the final decisions for approval of disability claims or benefits. The bill also strengthens oversight and accountability for the VA’s digital benefits system. The VA AI Transparency Act (H.R. 10417) to require the VA to disclose to every veteran any use of AI by the VA, including in claims processing and customer service chats.",1,2026-09-25T10:04:52Z,2026-09-25T10:05:46Z https://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7396,"Dingell, Moolenaar Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Strengthen Senior Care",2026-09-24,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,MI,Debbie Dingell,D000624,debbiedingell.house.gov,debbiedingell,https://debbiedingell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Representatives Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) and John Moolenaar (R-MI-02) introduced bipartisan legislation to strengthen the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE). The PACE Improvement Act would support the expansion of current PACE programs and facilitate the establishment of new ones by giving PACE programs greater flexibility to enroll beneficiaries throughout the year, remove limitations on when entities may apply to become PACE organizations, make PACE a mandatory service under Medicaid, address outdated limitations and unnecessary constraints on the potential for the growth and expansion of PACE organizations, and more. “The PACE model has been successful in helping seniors and Americans with disabilities age and live with dignity. As the third-largest PACE state, Michigan’s PACE providers deliver critical long-term services for individuals wishing to remain in their homes. But too many Americans continue to sit on waitlists to receive home and community-based services,” said Congresswoman Dingell. “We must do more to ensure Americans have the option to live independently in the comfort of their own homes. With this bipartisan bill, we can put these long-term supports in reach for those who need them the most.” “Michigan seniors should have more choices when it comes to receiving the care they need, including the option to receive home care. This is especially true in rural communities where long-term care options can be limited,” said Congressman Moolenaar. “This bipartisan legislation expands access to the PACE program, cuts unnecessary red tape, and gives more seniors the opportunity to receive high-quality care closer to home. I am proud to support this commonsense bill and will continue working to strengthen care for seniors across our state.” The legislation is supported by the National Pace Association, PACE of Southeast Michigan, Alzheimer’s Association, Alzheimer’s Impact Movement, American Association on Health and Disability, CommunicationFIRST, Community Catalyst, Lakeshore Foundation, LeadingAge, National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys, National Disability Rights Network, and Village to Village Network. “There is an incredible need for the life changing care PACE provides. More than 350,000 Michiganders are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid, and thousands more are already receiving long-term care because their needs have reached a nursing facility level of care. Yet PACE currently serves only about 6,500 people across our entire state. That gap represents an enormous opportunity to help more older adults remain independent, stay connected to their communities and receive the care they need,” said Brandon Young, President and CEO of PACE Southeast Michigan. “We see every day what happens when people are given that opportunity. They regain strength, increase their independence and find a meaningful sense of belonging. We are incredibly grateful to Congresswoman Dingell for recognizing the need and taking action to make PACE easier to access.” ""I don't know where I'd be without PACE,” said Carol Jackson, a PACE Southeast Michigan participant who lives in Trenton, Michigan. “The people here are like a family – my PACE family is my family. The elderly need places like PACE to survive on their own and be able to keep doing a lot with their lives. The people at my PACE center help all of us so much. No matter what we’re going through, they’re there for us. I'm so grateful that Debbie is supporting PACE by bringing this bill forward. I hope it passes, because there's so many more people out there who need PACE."" The Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) is a model of care that integrates Medicare and Medicaid benefits for eligible beneficiaries. It provides comprehensive medical and social services to seniors and individuals living with disabilities that enables them to live in their homes and communities rather than receiving care in an institutional setting. Congresswoman Dingell, a co-chair of the Bipartisan Disabilities Caucus and the 21st Century Long-Term Care Caucus, and Congressman Moolenar first introduced legislation on PACE in 2023. Bill text can be viewed HERE.",1,2026-09-25T10:04:52Z,2026-09-25T10:05:46Z https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-haley-stevens-announces-bill-lower-social-security-age-americans-who-work,Rep. Haley Stevens Announces Bill to Lower Social Security Age for Americans Who Work With Their Hands,2026-09-24,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,MI,Haley M. Stevens,S001215,stevens.house.gov,stevens,https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC — Today, Michigan Congresswoman Haley Stevens (MI-11) announced the Blue Collar Social Security Fairness Act, a bill to allow Americans who work in physically demanding jobs to collect full Social Security retirement benefits when they turn 60. Under current law, Americans born after 1960 can begin collecting full Social Security retirement benefits at age 67 or reduced early retirement at age 62. But far too often, those who work in manual labor cannot continue working until 67 to receive the full benefits they’ve earned. Unable to claim full retirement benefits and with the strains of their day-to-day blue-collar work becoming increasingly unbearable, these workers find themselves in a difficult position as they look towards retirement. Stevens’ bill lowers the eligible age for full retirement benefits to 60 for Americans who work in such jobs, including but not limited to construction, roofing, nursing, manufacturing, and more. The bill directs the Social Security Administration to identify and publish a comprehensive list of physically demanding occupations that would be covered under this law, and continue updating that list every three years. “Michiganders who work with their hands shouldn’t be forced to wait until their bodies give out to retire,” said Rep. Haley Stevens. “If we want to honor the dignity of work in this country, we need to lower the retirement age for physical laborers. I look forward to bringing together my colleagues in Congress to fix this glaring issue for Michigan workers, strengthen Social Security, and ensure its solvency for generations of Americans to come.” At a time when America needs more people to enter the skilled trades and labor-intensive careers, Stevens’ bill creates a new incentive for Americans to pursue these jobs with the promise of retiring early and receiving their full Social Security benefits. The bill doesn’t require Americans to exclusively work in physically demanding jobs their whole careers to become eligible. Rather, it establishes a weighted points system based on years worked to assess eligibility. If an individual reaches a total of 15 points or 20 total years of physically demanding work across their career, they qualify for early retirement once they turn 60. The points are tabulated as follows: 0.5 points for each year worked from the ages of 18-34 1 point for each year worked from the ages of 35-44 1 year worked from the ages of 45-54 counts as 1.5 points 1 year worked above the age of 55 until an individual passes away counts as 2 points Text of the bill can be found here. ###",1,2026-09-25T10:04:52Z,2026-09-25T10:05:46Z https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-peters-introduces-bipartisan-bill-requiring-the-defense-department-to-accelerate-pfas-clean-up-at-michigan-military-installations,Senator Peters Introduces Bipartisan Bill Requiring the Defense Department to Accelerate PFAS Clean-Up at Michigan Military Installations,2026-09-24,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) introduced bipartisan legislation that would require the Department of Defense (DOD) to accelerate the cleanup of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination at military installations in Michigan and across the United States. The bill, which Peters introduced with U.S. Senator Mike Rounds (R-SD), comes after the Trump Administration has repeatedly pushed back the timeline for PFAS remediation efforts at more than 300 DOD sites nationwide, with some projects being delayed up to 40 years. This includes delays to 11 cleanup projects at military installations across Michigan, including the Alpena Combat Readiness Training Center, Selfridge Air National Guard Base, Kellogg Air National Guard Base, Camp Grayling, K.I. Sawyer Air Force Base, Wurtsmith Air Force Base, Detroit Arsenal, Grand Ledge Army Aviation Support Facility, and Kincheloe Air Force Base. “Americans across the country are living at heightened risk of PFAS exposure from contamination at nearby military installations, depriving some communities of access to safe drinking water. Yet, the Department of Defense continues to drag its feet and delay essential cleanup projects that would help keep these military communities safe,” said Senator Peters. “It’s past time that the Department of Defense treats this growing public health crisis with the urgency it deserves. This bipartisan bill would force them to get shovels in the ground and begin cleanup of these sites without further delay.” “This bipartisan bill changes the focus - from long term delays to quick and effective PFAS cleanup actions - at military installations across the nation,” said Tony Spaniola, Co-Chair of the Great Lakes PFAS Action Network. “Interim cleanup actions are a key component of the ‘Wurtsmith Cleanup Model’ developed by community experts in my town of Oscoda, Michigan and incorporated in national policy guidance from the Pentagon more than three years ago. On behalf of military communities across the Great Lakes region and beyond, I think Senator Peters and Senator Rounds for their leadership on this important issue.” “People living near active and former military sites in Michigan are grappling with health complications from drinking water poisoned PFAS chemical pollution, yet the Department of Defense continues to drag its feet on cleaning up this contamination that would save lives and taxpayer money,” said Bentley Johnson, Federal Government Affairs Director of Michigan League of Conservation Voters. “The PFAS Rapid Response Act includes much-needed solutions to kick start interim remediation actions and help people get the relief from toxic contamination that they deserve.” The PFAS RAPID Response Act would require DOD to initiate PFAS remedial actions at no fewer than 100 military installations within the next two years. The bill expands upon a provision Peters secured in the national defense bill advanced by the Senate Armed Services Committee in June by increasing the number of sites at which the Department must take immediate action. In the Senate, Peters has made it a priority to address PFAS contamination, and its impacts on public health. Most recently, Peters demanded answers from the Trump Administration for its continued delays in cleaning up PFAS contamination at military installations in Michigan and across the country. In a letter to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Peters called on DOD to reverse its unacceptable postponement of PFAS remediation at military bases and requested detailed explanations for the delays in order to give servicemembers, their families, and the surrounding communities the transparency they deserve. Last year, Peters secured provisions in the national defense bill requiring DOD to develop a PFAS remediation acceleration strategy, create a PFAS transparency dashboard, and provide alternative drinking water – such as bottled water – to households with private drinking water wells that have been contaminated by PFAS as a result of DOD activities. In September 2018, Peters helped convene the first-ever hearing on PFAS contamination in the Senate, which assessed the federal government’s response to PFAS contamination and remediation efforts. Peters also convened a hearing in 2021 as Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee to examine how servicemembers, their families, and communities across the country have been harmed by exposure to toxic PFAS substances connected to military sites. In 2022, Peters convened a field hearing in East Lansing with?numerous administration?officials?to examine federal efforts and coordination with state and local governments to clean up and prevent contamination from PFAS, and to examine the impact exposure to these toxic chemicals has had on servicemembers, first responders, families, and other Michiganders. Peters has also introduced and advanced bipartisan legislation to reduce the spread of PFAS chemicals at commercial airports. Peters’ Preventing PFAS Runoff at Airports Act, which was signed into law in 2022, is working to deploy more existing Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) funding for commercial airports to purchase devices to test their firefighting equipment without discharging toxic PFAS chemicals. In 2022, Peters’ bill to help protect firefighters and emergency responders from PFAS exposure in the line of duty was also signed into law. Peters also secured $10 billion in federal funding through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law for PFAS remediation efforts in Michigan and across the country. ###",1,2026-09-25T10:04:52Z,2026-09-25T10:05:46Z https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/09/24/as-trump-meets-with-chinese-president-slotkin-and-moreno-speak-on-senate-floor-about-bill-to-ban-chinese-vehicles/,"As Trump Meets with Chinese President, Slotkin and Moreno Speak on Senate Floor about Bill to Ban Chinese Vehicles",2026-09-24,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"Slotkin, Tillis Push Trump to Move Forward with Taiwan Arms Sale Ahead of Xi Visit WASHINGTON, D.C. – Ahead of President Xi Jinping’s visit to Washington this week, U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin... ICYMI: Slotkin, Colleagues Demand Trump Hold the Line Ahead of China State Visit WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), U.S. Senator... ICYMI: Slotkin Presses Trump on China’s Role in Iran War Ahead of Thursday State Visit As Trump Prepares to Host Xi, China Aides Iran in Conducting Lethal Attacks on Americans WASHINGTON... Slotkin Leads Senate Democrats in Demanding Answers from Hegseth on Cost of Iran War Pentagon Greatly Underestimates Cost of Iran War to Taxpayers and Families WASHINGTON... Slotkin Statement on Voting No on Clarity Act WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) released the following statement regarding her no vote on... Slotkin Signs Joint Statement with Colleagues on the High Cost of Trump’s Trade War with Canada WASHINGTON D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) released the... Slotkin Joins Colleagues to Urge Supreme Court to Block Postal Service Rule Limiting Mail-In Voting WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) joined a bicameral amicus brief challenging the... Slotkin, Peters Demand Postal Service Halt Implementation of Unconstitutional Vote-by-Mail Restrictions WASHINGTON D.C. — U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) and Gary Peters (D-MI) joined Committee... ICYMI: Detroit News “Automakers urge Congress to quickly pass law banning Chinese cars” WASHINGTON, D.C. — Last week, the Detroit News and Reuters published a report that a group... Slotkin Supports Bill to End Trump’s Tariffs that Cost Michiganders More Than Any Other State WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) joined her Senate Democratic colleagues in... After Top General Says No Troops at Our Polls, Slotkin Seeks Same Assurances from DOJ, DHS/ICE, FBI and National Guard WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, MS NOW’s Morning Joe reported that Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), a member of the Senate...",1,2026-09-25T10:04:52Z,2026-09-25T10:05:46Z https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-scholten-selected-co-lead-new-bipartisan-working-group,Congresswoman Scholten Selected to Co-lead New Bipartisan Working Group on Artificial Intelligence,2026-09-24,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,MI,Hillary J. Scholten,S001221,scholten.house.gov,scholten,https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Hillary Scholten (D-MI-03) has joined her colleagues in the Problem Solvers Caucus to co-lead a bipartisan working group focused on developing commonsense guardrails on artificial intelligence to promote accuracy, accountability and integrity. “The rapid development of artificial intelligence and the recent, grave threats to our nation’s cybersecurity are warning signs that cannot be ignored,” said Congresswoman Scholten. “I am working legislatively to make sure American people and businesses have the tools they need to understand AI and use it responsibly. I am honored to co-lead this crucial working group to exercise Congress’s regulatory responsibility over the technology and establish much-needed guardrails. While we can and should lead the world in AI development, we also must protect ourselves and hold the companies developing it accountable.” The Working Group will also examine how Congress can help workers and small businesses thrive in an AI-enabled economy, curb misuse of emerging technologies that threaten elections or public trust, protect families and consumers from harmful or deceptive applications, and strengthen national security. Congresswoman Scholten will be joined by Reps. Mike Lawler (D-NY-17) and Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ-05), and Blake Moore (R-UT-01) as Vice Leads. Rep. David Joyce (R-OH-14), Susie Lee (D-NV-3), Rob Bresnahan (R-PA-8), Steven Horsford (D-NV-4), Tom Kean (R-NJ-7), Angie Craig (D-MN-2), Maria Salazar (R-FL-27), and Scott Peters (D-CA-52) will all serve as additional Members of the Working Group. The Working Group sent a letter to President Trump ahead of his meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping asking for a coordinated international response to AI development and security. Read the letter here. As a member of the House Small Business Committee, Congresswoman Scholten has already introduced and passed legislation to help small businesses learn about AI. HerAI-WISE Act,which passed the House in January 2026, requires the SBA to develop AI-literacy resources on its e-learning platform. Her AI for Main Street Act would expand the role of Small Business Development Centers in helping small businesses evaluate and integrate AI into their operations. Congresswoman Scholten has also introduced theSBA AI Adoption Reporting Act, which would direct the SBA to implement its recent findings on improving its AI use for contracting and research programs. ###",1,2026-09-27T10:23:37Z,2026-09-27T10:25:08Z https://mcdonaldrivet.house.gov/media/press-releases/ahead-china-summit-rep-mcdonald-rivet-urges-leaders-prioritize-ai-cooperation,"Ahead of China Summit, Rep. McDonald Rivet Urges Leaders to Prioritize AI Cooperation, Protect Safety, & Mid-Michigan Jobs",2026-09-23,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,MI,Kristen McDonald Rivet,M001237,mcdonaldrivet.house.gov,mcdonaldrivet,https://mcdonaldrivet.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"FLINT— This Thursday, President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping are expected to meet in Washington to discuss many issues, including the future of artificial intelligence. Ahead of the summit, Congresswoman Kristen McDonald Rivet sent a letter urging the Trump Administration officials to use the China summit to negotiate AI-related safety practices. She issued the following statement, encouraging the world leaders to prioritize cooperation and safe development. “We need to reinvest in an economy that puts working Americans first. As the U.S. and China compete to lead the world on artificial intelligence, leaders must agree on common-sense regulations that protect people’s jobs, safety, and opportunities,” said Congresswoman McDonald Rivet. “That only works if it happens at a global scale. President Trump needs to use this summit to be tough with President Xi, making sure we have a universal set of rules for the future of AI that protect Americans’ security and pocketbooks.” Alongside the letter, Congresswoman McDonald Rivet has led multiple efforts to establish guardrails on artificial intelligence and data center development, including…",1,2026-09-24T09:44:48Z,2026-09-24T09:45:52Z https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/videosenator-peters-calls-for-action-to-clean-up-toxic-forever-chemicals-during-michigan-pfas-awareness-week,VIDEO: Senator Peters Calls for Action to Clean Up Toxic “Forever Chemicals” During Michigan PFAS Awareness Week,2026-09-23,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) released a video statement during Michigan PFAS Awareness Week calling for continued action to address toxic per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Commonly known as “forever chemicals,” PFAS contamination has harmed communities, residents, and ecosystems across Michigan. Peters has long worked to combat PFAS contamination, accelerate cleanup efforts, and enact policies to prevent future exposure and protect Michiganders. His message comes as the Department of Defense (DOD) continues to delay cleaning up PFAS contamination at military sites in Michigan. “The decisions we make today will determine the quality of the water our children and grandchildren inherit,” SenatorPeters said. “That means doing everything we can to clean up contaminated sites, keep PFAS out of our drinking water, and hold polluters accountable. That’s why I’ll never stop fighting to address these toxic chemicals, and to protect the health and safety of Michiganders and our environment.” To watch Peters’ video for Michigan PFAS Awareness Week, click here. Despite ongoing setbacks from the Department of Defense (DOD), Peters has long fought alongside community leaders in Michigan to mitigate harmful PFAS contamination. Peters recently demanded answers from the Trump Administration for its continued delays in cleaning up PFAS contamination at military installations in Michigan and across the country. In a letter to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, Peters called on DOD to reverse its unacceptable postponement of PFAS remediation at military bases and requested detailed explanations for the delays in order to give servicemembers, their families, and the surrounding communities the transparency they deserve. Last year, Peters secured provisions in the national defense bill requiring DOD to develop a PFAS remediation acceleration strategy, create a PFAS transparency dashboard, and provide alternative drinking water – such as bottled water – to households with private drinking water wells that have been contaminated by PFAS as a result of DOD activities. In September 2018, Peters helped convene the first-ever hearing on PFAS contamination in the Senate, which assessed the federal government’s response to PFAS contamination and remediation efforts. He then convened a field summit in Grand Rapids in November 2018 to shine a light on how local, state, and federal governments are coordinating responses to address PFAS contamination. Peters also convened a hearing in 2021 as Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee to examine how servicemembers, their families, and communities across the country have been harmed by exposure to toxic PFAS substances connected to military sites. In 2022, Peters convened a field hearing in East Lansing with numerous administration officials to examine federal efforts and coordination with state and local governments to clean up and prevent contamination from PFAS, and to examine the impact exposure to these toxic chemicals has had on servicemembers, first responders, families, and other Michiganders. Peters has also introduced and advanced bipartisan legislation to reduce the spread of PFAS chemicals at commercial airports. Peters’ Preventing PFAS Runoff at Airports Act, which was signed into law in 2022, is working to deploy more existing Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) funding for commercial airports to purchase devices to test their firefighting equipment without discharging toxic PFAS chemicals. In 2022, Peters’ bill to help protect firefighters and emergency responders from PFAS exposure in the line of duty was also signed into law. Peters also secured $10 billion in federal funding through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law for PFAS remediation efforts in Michigan and across the country. ###",1,2026-09-24T09:44:48Z,2026-09-24T09:45:52Z https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/09/23/icymi-slotkin-colleagues-demand-trump-hold-the-line-ahead-of-china-state-visit/,"ICYMI: Slotkin, Colleagues Demand Trump Hold the Line Ahead of China State Visit",2026-09-23,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"Slotkin, Tillis Push Trump to Move Forward with Taiwan Arms Sale Ahead of Xi Visit WASHINGTON, D.C. – Ahead of President Xi Jinping’s visit to Washington this week, U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin... ICYMI: Slotkin Presses Trump on China’s Role in Iran War Ahead of Thursday State Visit As Trump Prepares to Host Xi, China Aides Iran in Conducting Lethal Attacks on Americans WASHINGTON... Slotkin Leads Senate Democrats in Demanding Answers from Hegseth on Cost of Iran War Pentagon Greatly Underestimates Cost of Iran War to Taxpayers and Families WASHINGTON... Slotkin Statement on Voting No on Clarity Act WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) released the following statement regarding her no vote on... Slotkin Signs Joint Statement with Colleagues on the High Cost of Trump’s Trade War with Canada WASHINGTON D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) released the... Slotkin Joins Colleagues to Urge Supreme Court to Block Postal Service Rule Limiting Mail-In Voting WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) joined a bicameral amicus brief challenging the... Slotkin, Peters Demand Postal Service Halt Implementation of Unconstitutional Vote-by-Mail Restrictions WASHINGTON D.C. — U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) and Gary Peters (D-MI) joined Committee... ICYMI: Detroit News “Automakers urge Congress to quickly pass law banning Chinese cars” WASHINGTON, D.C. — Last week, the Detroit News and Reuters published a report that a group... Slotkin Supports Bill to End Trump’s Tariffs that Cost Michiganders More Than Any Other State WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) joined her Senate Democratic colleagues in... After Top General Says No Troops at Our Polls, Slotkin Seeks Same Assurances from DOJ, DHS/ICE, FBI and National Guard WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, MS NOW’s Morning Joe reported that Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), a member of the Senate... ICYMI: General Caine Responds to Slotkin, Assures No Plans to Send Troops to Polls in November, Hegseth Silent WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the Associated Press reported that General Dan Caine, Chairman of the...",1,2026-09-24T09:44:48Z,2026-09-24T09:45:52Z https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/09/23/slotkin-tillis-push-trump-to-move-forward-with-taiwan-arms-sale-ahead-of-xi-visit/,"Slotkin, Tillis Push Trump to Move Forward with Taiwan Arms Sale Ahead of Xi Visit",2026-09-23,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Ahead of President Xi Jinping’s visit to Washington this week, U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) and Thom Tillis (R-NC), co-chairs of the Senate Bipartisan Taiwan Caucus, sent a letter to President Trump urging him to immediately notify Congress and move forward with the pre-approved $14 billion arms sale package to Taiwan. Slotkin and Tillis note that Taiwan has already approved a record $25 billion defense supplemental to support the purchase, and that the sale would benefit the U.S. domestically by supporting American jobs and the U.S. defense industrial base. “As we approach President Xi’s visit to Washington, we urge you to stand up for American interests and against Chinese aggression through actions and not just rhetoric,” wrote the Senators. “As President Reagan made clear, U.S. arms sales to Taiwan should never be subject to negotiation with China—especially not at a time when Chinese aggression against Taiwan has evolved from aircraft incursions into a persistent, multidomain campaign that looks more like preparation for war.” The package, pre-approved by Congress in January 2025 and funded entirely by Taiwan, has reportedly been placed on hold following the President’s last meeting with President Xi. The continued delay creates the impression that Taiwan’s security is being negotiated with Beijing. “On a bipartisan basis, we agree that the United States must never allow China to use arms sales to Taiwan as a bargaining chip,” continued the Senators. “On the eve of President Xi’s visit to Washington, this is why we urge you to immediately approve this arms sale package for Taiwan.” The full text of the letter is available here. Read more about the letter in Politico’s National Security Daily. ###",1,2026-09-24T09:44:48Z,2026-09-24T09:45:52Z https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-scholten-demands-answers-ice-after-fatal-car-crash-grand-rapids,Congresswoman Scholten Demands Answers from ICE after Fatal Car Crash in Grand Rapids,2026-09-22,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,MI,Hillary J. Scholten,S001221,scholten.house.gov,scholten,https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"GRAND RAPIDS, MI – Today, Congresswoman Hillary Scholten (D-MI-03) released the following statement regarding the recent fatal car crash in Grand Rapids that involved U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents. Congresswoman Scholten also sent a letter to David Venturella, the Acting Director of ICE, demanding immediate answers on the tragedy. “No traffic stop should end with a fatality. Something went wrong, and we need to know what and how. I have sent a letter to Immigration and Customs Enforcement demanding immediate answers about what happened and a transparent investigation into facts we don't yet know, so that we can prevent something like this from ever happening again. The purpose of federal law enforcement is to make our communities safer. We must make sure that is happening. I will continue to monitor this situation closely and remain in close contact with federal and local law enforcement until our community gets the answers we deserve.” Congresswoman Scholten’s letter to ICE can be found here and below: Dear Mr. Venturella: I write regarding a fatal vehicle crash that occurred on September 20, 2026, in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Publicly available news reports indicate that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) personnel initiated a pursuit that led to this crash and the death of Mario David Coronado Juarez. As the representative for Michigan’s Third Congressional District, I have an oversight responsibility to my constituents to understand the circumstances of this incident, including whether federal law enforcement conduct contributed to a constituent’s death and whether that conduct was consistent with applicable laws and agency policy. To that end, I respectfully request that ICE confirm whether it or another federal agency was involved in any conduct related to the crash, and, if so, respond to the following questions: What was the stated reason for the stop or attempted stop of the subject vehicle? Was the subject the target of a preexisting warrant, order of removal, or ongoing investigation? Did agents pursue rather than discontinue the stop when the driver failed to yield? If yes, describe in detail the nature of the pursuit. If no, describe in detail the steps taken to clearly demonstrate the stop was discontinued. If a pursuit of any kind followed, was the pursuit classified as high-risk? If so, what factors were relied upon to justify that classification, and by whom? Were the pursuing vehicle’s visual and audible signals activated for the duration of the pursuit? How many agents and vehicles were involved in the pursuit, and were the pursuing vehicles(s) marked or unmarked? Were agents involved in the pursuit equipped with and wearing body-worn cameras, and, if so, were those cameras activated during the incident? Were the pursuing vehicles equipped with dash cameras, and, if so, was footage captured? Please confirm that all body-worn camera footage, dash camera footage, and incident reports related to this crash are being preserved. Is ICE willing to make relevant footage and records available to this office, local law enforcement, and the family of the deceased? Was the relevant local or state law enforcement agency notified about ICE’s involvement in this crash, and, if so, when were they notified? Is ICE required by policy or any existing agreement to notify or coordinate with local police before conducting operations or pursuits in this jurisdiction? Has next of kin been notified, and by whom? Given that this incident resulted in the death of one of my constituents, I request a written response no later than September 27, 2026. I also request an immediate formal briefing from the ICE Field Office leadership to the Michigan Congressional Delegation. Thank you for your attention to this matter. ###",1,2026-09-23T09:45:16Z,2026-09-23T09:46:14Z https://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7361,"Dingell, Colleagues Urge Trump to Maintain Protections Against Chinese Automobiles, Protect American Auto Workers and Manufacturing",2026-09-21,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,MI,Debbie Dingell,D000624,debbiedingell.house.gov,debbiedingell,https://debbiedingell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) and 26 of her colleagues in the House of Representatives are urging President Trump to maintain protection of the U.S. auto industry from Chinese automobiles and connected vehicle technologies. The lawmakers are also pushing the administration to avoid opening the U.S. market to Chinese automobile imports and manufacturing as part of ongoing U.S.-China trade discussions, as well as protect the American automotive manufacturing base, workers, critical supply chains, and national security. “The U.S. automotive industry supports approximately 10 million American jobs and sustains a broad manufacturing ecosystem that includes steel, semiconductors, batteries, electronics, machinery, and thousands of suppliers,” said the lawmakers. “These initiatives are critical to ensuring the United States has a clear and lasting framework to protect our automotive market, workers, critical supply chains, and national security.” The lawmakers also highlighted the lack of a level playing field in the global marketplace due to unfair practices used by the Chinese government: “China is rapidly expanding its global automotive presence through massive government subsidies, state-directed investment, below-market financing, and other non-market policies and practices. These policies and practices have incentivized Chinese automakers to build significant excess production capacity to aggressively expand overseas, including through opaque corporate structures and partnerships. These subsidized Chinese automakers sell vehicles globally at unfair, artificially low prices that American manufacturers simply cannot compete with. In addition to government financing, Chinese automotive manufacturing relies on forced labor and other exploitative labor practices.” Congresswoman Dingell’s latest effort follows an April 2026 letter to President Trump from her and 73 of her House Democratic colleagues urging the president to block Chinese automakers from accessing the United States market. In May 2026, she introduced bipartisan legislation that would prohibit the importation, manufacture, and sale of connected vehicles, software, and hardware linked to China. In June 2026, the congresswoman raised concerns with the administration’s decision to permit Chinese connected vehicles to enter the United States, warning that allowing this poses a serious threat to American national security, driver privacy, and the competitiveness of the domestic auto industry. In August 2026, Congresswoman Dingell introduced another bipartisan bill that would direct the U.S. Secretary of Commerce to conduct a comprehensive study of the national and economic security risks foreign adversaries pose to the United States automotive industry. A copy of the letter can be found HERE and below Dear Mr. President: As you prepare for your upcoming meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping, we write to emphasize the importance of protecting the United States automotive industry, its workers, and our economic and national security from the growing threat posed by China. We urge you to maintain strong protections against Chinese automobiles and connected vehicle technologies and ensure that China does not gain access to our market through direct imports, local production, and other avenues of circumvention. China is rapidly expanding its global automotive presence through massive government subsidies, state-directed investment, below-market financing, and other non-market policies and practices. These policies and practices have incentivized Chinese automakers to build significant excess production capacity to aggressively expand overseas, including through opaque corporate structures and partnerships. These subsidized Chinese automakers sell vehicles globally at unfair, artificially low prices that American manufacturers simply cannot compete with. In addition to government financing, Chinese automotive manufacturing relies on forced labor and other exploitative labor practices. From January through August 2026, China exported more than 6.2 million passenger vehicles, exceeding its passenger vehicle exports for all of 2025. In August 2026 alone, Chinese passenger vehicle exports increased more than 67 percent from the previous year. Electric and plug-in hybrid vehicle exports have grown even more rapidly, even as China’s domestic automotive market has weakened. These trends demonstrate the growing importance of overseas markets to China’s automotive sector and the scale of the challenge facing American manufacturers and workers. Chinese automotive brands accounted for approximately 17 percent of new vehicle sales in Mexico during the first half of 2026, up from 14 percent a year earlier, with sales reaching 137,525 vehicles. At the same time, Chinese manufacturers continue to explore investment and production opportunities in Mexico. Canada has also established an annual quota of 49,000 Chinese electric vehicles at a 6.1 percent tariff rate, with the quota set to increase by 6.5 percent annually. These developments underscore the need to ensure that our trade laws and North American agreements cannot become pathways for Chinese automakers to circumvent U.S. protections. A vehicle assembled in Canada or Mexico must not be considered free of the risks associated with Chinese ownership, control, technology, software, hardware, or supply chains. We must ensure that Chinese companies cannot establish a foothold elsewhere in North America and use that presence to gain access to the U.S. market, undermining our trade protections and exposing American workers and manufacturers to the same heavily subsidized, non-market competition we are seeking to address. Nor would a Chinese-owned or controlled manufacturing plant in the United States, even one employing American workers, eliminate the broader economic and national security risks posed by China. Moreover, we urge you not to open the U.S. market to Chinese automobile imports as part of ongoing U.S.-China trade discussions. Securing our North American supply chains through the USMCA review will mean little if Chinese vehicles are permitted to enter the U.S. market directly through our front door. This is not just a matter of economics but of national security as well. As you know, modern automobiles are increasingly connected computing platforms, incorporating cameras, microphones, sensors, telecommunications equipment, software, and other technologies capable of collecting and transmitting significant amounts of information. Connected vehicles can collect troves of sensitive data about occupants, locations, surroundings, and infrastructure. Connected vehicles and technologies developed or produced by foreign adversaries present a myriad of opportunities for misuse of data or sabotage, such as through indirect or alternative connections that enable remote access or interference. There is a heightened risk when these technologies are controlled by a foreign adversary with a demonstrated interest in undermining democracy and exerting its strategic and economic position. Congress has recognized the need to address these economic and national security risks and is taking bipartisan, bicameral action to strengthen protections against Chinese automobiles and connected vehicle technologies. Building on existing regulatory restrictions, legislative efforts in both chambers would establish durable safeguards for vehicles, software, hardware, and other technologies linked to China and other foreign adversaries. These initiatives are critical to ensuring the United States has a clear and lasting framework to protect our automotive market, workers, critical supply chains, and national security. The U.S. automotive industry supports approximately 10 million American jobs and sustains a broad manufacturing ecosystem that includes steel, semiconductors, batteries, electronics, machinery, and thousands of suppliers. A significant influx of heavily subsidized Chinese vehicles would put substantial pressure on this industrial base and threaten our manufacturing capacity and jobs that depend on it. Once critical manufacturing capacity is lost, rebuilding it becomes impossible without decades of significant public and private investment. Additionally, China’s ambitions extend well beyond finished vehicles. Chinese companies have developed significant positions in batteries, critical minerals, components, software, and other technologies essential to the modern automobile. As China pursues joint ventures, licensing arrangements, supply agreements, and other commercial relationships, we must also consider who owns or controls the underlying company, technology, software, hardware, and critical supply chains. With that, we urge you to keep these economic and national security considerations in mind as you and your staff prepare to host the Chinese delegation this week. The United States should engage China from a position of strength while maintaining the safeguards necessary to protect our automotive industry, workers, critical supply chains, and national security. Chinese automakers should not be permitted to use Canada, Mexico, USMCA, overseas manufacturing, or ownership and technology arrangements to circumvent U.S. protections. We have an opportunity to establish clear and durable rules so that Chinese automakers cannot deeply embed themselves in our market. We look forward to working with you to ensure that we remain a global leader in automotive manufacturing and connected technology, while protecting our workers, supply chains, and national security that underpin that leadership.",1,2026-09-22T09:42:49Z,2026-09-22T09:44:35Z https://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7372,Dingell Introduces Resolution Recognizing the Importance of Continuous Care for Patients Undergoing Cancer Treatment on Medicaid,2026-09-21,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,MI,Debbie Dingell,D000624,debbiedingell.house.gov,debbiedingell,https://debbiedingell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) introduced a resolution to recognize the importance of protecting continuous Medicaid coverage for individuals who are undergoing cancer treatment. Interruption to health coverage during cancer treatment can create unnecessary risk and hardship for patients. More than 75% of individuals undergoing cancer care have delayed or skipped vital treatment due to administrative issues with third-party systems. In many states, cancer patients are required to repeatedly verify their medical circumstances, even when state Medicaid programs already hold the necessary information. Streamlining Medicaid processes and reducing these hurdles is essential to ensuring support for those receiving cancer treatment. ""No one fighting cancer should ever have to pause or skip lifesaving treatment because of bureaucratic red tape. Forcing patients to jump through redundant administrative hoops creates unnecessary hardship and puts lives at risk. This resolution recognizes the importance of continuous coverage so that patients on Medicaid can focus on what matters most: their health and recovery."" The resolution is endorsed by Less Cancer. A copy of the letter can be found HERE.",1,2026-09-22T09:42:49Z,2026-09-22T09:44:35Z https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/09/21/icymi-slotkin-presses-trump-on-chinas-role-in-iran-war-ahead-of-thursday-state-visit/,ICYMI: Slotkin Presses Trump on China’s Role in Iran War Ahead of Thursday State Visit,2026-09-21,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"As Trump Prepares to Host Xi, China Aides Iran in Conducting Lethal Attacks on Americans WASHINGTON D.C. — Last week, CBS News reported that U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, sent a letter to President Trump urging him to make Chinese support for Iran’s military a centerpiece of his talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping during Xi’s state visit to Washington this week. The letter cites a Wall Street Journal report that Iran acquired high-resolution satellite images of a U.S. base in Jordan from Chinese companies both before and after a July attack that killed three American service members and wounded four others. Asked whether he would raise the issue with President Xi, the President said, “I think he’s behaved reasonably well.” “I have many concerns about your China policy and President Xi’s state visit to Washington next week,” wrote Slotkin. “Your insistence on rolling out the red carpet for our adversaries and kicking our allies in the teeth is beyond me. But I would hope, as commander-in-chief of the armed forces, the provision of targeting information by China to help Iran kill American servicemembers would be something even you can’t tolerate. Unfortunately, this does not appear to be the case.” Slotkin urged the President to make clear to President Xi that this support “must stop immediately.” She also called on the President to provide troops, military families, and the American public with a clear accounting of the actions he will take to protect U.S. forces. “For months, we have known that Chinese companies are helping the Iranian military target and attempt to kill U.S. troops,” continued Slotkin. “But new reporting now shows that this support from China may have directly contributed to the deaths of American servicemembers.” Slotkin’s letter criticizes Trump’s decision to enter this war with Iran without congressional authorization, noting that 18 American service members have been killed so far and more than 820 have been wounded. Read the CBS News story here. The full text of the letter is available here.",1,2026-09-22T09:42:49Z,2026-09-22T09:44:35Z https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases/icymi-rep-stevens-introduces-paul-whelan-hostage-compensation-and,ICYMI: Rep. Stevens Introduces Paul Whelan Hostage Compensation and Reintegration Act,2026-09-21,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,MI,Haley M. Stevens,S001215,stevens.house.gov,stevens,https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"September 21, 2026 WASHINGTON, D.C. – In case you missed it, Michigan Congresswoman Haley Stevens introduced the Paul Whelan Hostage Compensation and Reintegration Act, legislation to provide financial support to Americans who have been unlawfully or wrongfully detained abroad as they return home and rebuild their lives. The legislation is named for Michigan’s Paul Whelan, who was wrongfully detained in Russia for more than five years before returning home in August 2024. After his release, Whelan faced many of the financial challenges that can follow years of detention, including lost income, the loss of his home and job, and difficulties obtaining health insurance. Here’s what Michiganders are hearing and seeing about Rep. Haley Stevens’ work with Paul Whelan to support Americans returning home after wrongful detention abroad: The Detroit News: New bill would compensate returned political hostages like Paul Whelan By Melissa Nann Burke “Reintegration should not stop at the airport,” Stevens said, describing Whelan’s experience returning home without a place to live or his former job after five and a half years of lost earnings. “This is a very solid piece of legislation that brings some dignity to the people who I believe are American heroes.” Stevens said the goal is to establish “a transparent and objective formula” recognizing the economic consequences of wrongful detention, including time taken away from a person’s career and livelihood. CNN: Paul Whelan helps craft bill to compensate Americans wrongly detained abroad By Jennifer Hansler Whelan called the legislation “a huge step forward” in ensuring wrongfully detained Americans receive support after returning home. “For people like me who have come home after five-and-a-half years, we really don’t have very much. House is gone. Cars are gone. Employment’s gone. No health insurance,” Whelan told CNN. Stevens said the legislation would ensure Americans who endure wrongful detention have resources to “regain their footing, reunite with their communities, and rebuild their lives.” Deadline Detroit: Haley Stevens introduces ‘Paul Whelan Hostage Compensation and Reintegration Act’ Bill By Allan Lengel “When an American is wrongfully detained abroad, we do everything we can to bring them home. Our responsibility cannot end the moment they step back on American soil,” Stevens said. Whelan said former hostages often return home having lost their income, health insurance, employment, transportation and housing. “Providing compensation to former hostages is a step in the right direction in supporting their positive and productive reintegration,” Whelan said. NPR News Now: Paul Whelan compensation bill introduced “Hostages lose freedom. That means I wasn't earning an income. I wasn't saving for retirement,” Whelan told NPR. Whelan said that when he returned home, his home and cars were gone and he had to rebuild his life. CBS News Detroit: Paul Whelan reacts to bill supporting Americans wrongfully detained overseas CBS News Detroit reported on Stevens’ legislation to provide support to Americans returning home after being wrongfully detained abroad. Whelan thanked Stevens for introducing the legislation and discussed the challenges former detainees can face after returning home. The report highlighted Whelan’s more than five years of wrongful detention in Russia and the legislation’s effort to help Americans rebuild their lives after returning to the United States ###",1,2026-09-23T09:45:16Z,2026-09-23T09:46:14Z https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases/barrett-introduces-two-bills-ensure-transparency-accountability-ai-use-va,"Barrett Introduces Two Bills to Ensure Transparency, Accountability for AI Use at the VA",2026-09-18,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,MI,Tom Barrett,B001321,barrett.house.gov,barrett,https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Congressman Tom Barrett (MI-07) this week introduced the VA Claims AI Accountability Act (H.R. 10418) and the VA AI Transparency Act (H.R. 10417) to ensure veterans get efficient, transparent, quality service and human review for benefit claims when the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) uses artificial intelligence. “Technology is supposed to be a tool to provide better, faster service. It should never get in the way of the care and benefits veterans earned,” Barrett said. “The bills I’m introducing will always put veterans first at the VA by requiring transparency about any AI use and making sure a real person — not just an AI system — reviews every veteran’s claim.” Barrett, who chairs the House Veterans’ Affairs Subcommittee on Technology Modernization, has been leading efforts in Congress to oversee technological upgrades at the VA to ensure new systems are truly helping VA staff meet veterans’ needs. At a recent hearing, he discussed with senior VA officials the need for transparency and human accountability for AI use at the department. Background The VA provides a variety of benefits and services to veterans based on disabilities resulting from their military service. The VA Claims AI Accountability Act (H.R. 10418) would: Ensure VA employees make all final decisions for approval of disability claims and benefits, including human review of each individual disability condition claimed; Require the VA to maintain and continue improving its digital disability claims processing system to make sure it is accurately and efficiently getting veterans the benefits they earned; and Strengthen oversight and accountability from Congress and the independent comptroller general. The VA AI Transparency Act (H.R. 10417) would require the VA to disclose to every veteran any use of AI by the VA, including in claims processing and customer service chats. Barrett has been a leader in reining in government overreach and increasing transparency and accountability for artificial intelligence technology and data center facilities. He has introduced or co-sponsored the following bills in Congress: The Doctors Not AI Act (H.R. 10210) to ensure that artificial intelligence cannot make or dictate health insurance coverage decisions involving medical judgment. The Children Harmed by AI Technology (CHAT) Act (H.R. 7218) to require AI chatbots to implement age verification measures to protect minors. The bill requires parental consent for minors using chatbots, bans chatbots from engaging in sexually explicit communications with minors, and requires chatbots to notify a minor’s parent if the minor’s chat shows signs of suicidal ideation. The AI Threat Output and Monitoring Incident Containment Act (H.R. 9965) to test advanced AI systems to prevent risks to nuclear safety. The Human Authority over Autonomous Weapons Act (H.R. 9729) to ensure that no autonomous or artificial intelligence-enabled weapon system used by the United States military can carry out an intentionally lethal strike without meaningful human oversight or a human decision-maker in the loop. The Protecting Local Control of Data Centers Act (H.R. 10119) to prohibit federal agencies from overriding local land-use, zoning, siting, or permitting authority related to data centers. The No Data Center NDAs Act (H.R. 10118) to prohibit members of Congress from signing non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) about data centers, including any information about possible locations or how much water or energy a facility is expected to consume. CLICK HERE to read the VA Claims AI Accountability Act.",1,2026-09-19T09:11:33Z,2026-09-19T09:12:45Z https://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7350,"Dingell, Fitzpatrick Express Concern About Staffing Challenges at CDC’s Injury Center",2026-09-18,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,MI,Debbie Dingell,D000624,debbiedingell.house.gov,debbiedingell,https://debbiedingell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Representatives Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01) are voicing their concerns to Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. about staff reduction and hiring constraints at Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) National Center for Injury Prevention and Control (Injury Center). These challenges have left our nation’s leading authority on preventing injuries and violence, the top cause of death for Americans ages 1–44, with critical vacancies, a major loss of institutional knowledge, and unstable leadership. “Its staff provide technical expertise, data analysis, and oversight that ensure federal investments are used effectively and efficiently,” said the lawmakers. “If left unresolved, these challenges could contribute to a broader collapse of the nation’s injury and violence prevention capacity.” A copy of the letter can be found HERE and below: Dear Secretary Kennedy: We write to express serious concern about the current staffing challenges and hiring processes at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's (CDC) National Center for Injury Prevention and Control (Injury Center). Our goal is to ensure that Injury Center grantees have the support they need to operate effectively, and that staff have the resources required to ensure appropriate oversight of federal funds allocated by Congress to injury and violence prevention efforts. The Injury Center is the nation’s leading authority on preventing injuries and violence, which remain the leading cause of death for Americans ages 1 to 44. The Center funds programs in every state addressing urgent public health challenges, including suicide, overdose, intimate partner violence, falls, and drowning. Its staff provide technical expertise, data analysis, and oversight that ensure federal investments are used effectively and efficiently. Thanks in part to the Injury Center’s work, we have seen an unprecedented 26% reduction in overdose deaths rates from 2023 to 2024. Currently, CDC is facing significant workforce challenges due to recent reductions in force (RIFs) and ongoing hiring constraints across the agency. These staffing challenges have been especially acute at the Injury Center. More than 200 staff members have been eliminated through RIFs, and the Center is operating with only a fraction of the full-time equivalent (FTE) employees it started with in 2025. The agency is down to fewer than 400 FTE currently, compared to over 700 in January 2025. This has left the Injury Center with critical vacancies, a significant loss of institutional knowledge, and a lack of stable leadership. Despite submitting a request to HHS leadership for more than 150 positions to address these vacancies, the Center has only received approval to begin hiring for 40 positions. Additionally, the positions approved for hire do not match the positions that Injury Center leadership requested. Additionally, according to Injury Center officials, no new staff have been hired because the process remains lengthy, confusing, and difficult to navigate. Since human resource functions were centralized at the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and no longer operate within CDC, hiring officials have shared that the protocols are no longer clearly defined and thus require them to expend more time and resources as they engage with multiple HHS offices in attempts to be responsive. This fragmented process places a substantial administrative burden on hiring officials and contributes to significant delays. Among the additional burdens, hiring officials are now required to interview every applicant received. To keep the number of mandatory interviews manageable, officials set relatively low caps on the number of applications accepted. This poses two distinct challenges. First, announcements close as soon as the cap is reached, even if the cap is reached before the closing date that was initially stated. This severely limits the applicant pool and reduces the Injury Center's ability to recruit a wide range of highly qualified subject-matter experts. Second, this imposes a significant human resource burden on the agency. For example, even a small applicant pool capped to 20 applicants requires 20 separate interviews and does not permit the agency the ability to rule out unqualified candidates to streamline this process. Further challenges exist around ensuring employees affected by RIFs have access to these new postings. Despite the requirement that these employees must receive priority notification, this has not been the case under the new hiring processes. Without timely notification, priority hiring requirements are effectively undermined, making the hiring process less efficient and increasing the risk that the Injury Center will lose access to experienced, highly qualified personnel. Together, the consequences extend beyond individual hiring decisions. Internally, prolonged vacancies and uncertainty undermine morale, disrupt continuity, and create avoidable onboarding and training costs. Externally, hard-won progress in reducing overdose deaths and other preventable injuries is at risk, and the nation’s ability to respond quickly and effectively to growing and evolving public health challenges is fundamentally undermined. If left unresolved, these challenges could contribute to a broader collapse of the nation’s injury and violence prevention capacity. We respectfully request that you: Review the current hiring process to ensure the Injury Center can fill vacancies that reflect its most urgent mission and workforce needs. Establish clear, streamlined hiring protocols with defined responsibilities, timelines, and points of contact across HHS and CDC. Reconsider requirements that effectively mandate interviewing every applicant, allowing officials to accept broader applicant pools and conduct merit-based screening. Create a timely notification and application process for qualified employees affected by reductions in force when relevant positions are announced. Ensure hiring officials receive advance or immediate notice when their announcements are posted. Prompt action is needed to ensure that the National Center for Injury Prevention and Control and other CDC centers can recruit and retain the workforce necessary to fulfill their mission. We appreciate your attention to these concerns and respectfully request a review of the processes described above.",1,2026-09-19T09:11:33Z,2026-09-19T09:12:45Z https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/video-during-suicide-prevention-month-peters-speaks-on-senate-floor-to-highlight-importance-of-988-suicide-and-crisis-lifeline,"VIDEO: During Suicide Prevention Month, Peters Speaks on Senate Floor to Highlight Importance of 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline",2026-09-18,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC — U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) took to the Senate floor to highlight the importance of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, which provides free and confidential mental health counseling to every American. The speech comes after Peters joined his colleagues in introducing a resolution recognizing September 8th as “988 Day” to raise awareness of this essential resource. “According to the most recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States. Perhaps even more heartbreaking, it is the second-leading cause of death for our young people,” said Peters during his remarks. “Too many people across our country – parents, spouses, children, and friends – are dealing with the unimaginable loss of a loved one.” Peters’ speech acknowledged that too often, individuals who die by suicide are struggling alone, or did not receive proper treatment for their condition. Research shows that timely intervention is among the best ways to prevent someone from taking their own life, and Peters emphasized the critical role that the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline plays in delivering that essential support. “As a society, we have an obligation to provide that lifesaving crisis support to every American in every community, and that’s exactly what the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline does. Across our country, Americans facing mental health struggles can access free and confidential support 24/7, 365 days a year,” said Peters. To watch the full video of Peters’ speech on the Senate floor, click here. Peters went on to thank crisis support counselors and highlighted the important role they play in providing mental health support to prevent individuals from making the decision to take their own life. “I want to commend the crisis support counselors across America who answer these calls and help deliver this vital support to every citizen, day and night. Your compassion, dedication, and willingness to be there for others during an incredibly difficult moment literally saves lives,” said Peters. Peters concluded the speech by recognizing Michigander Bob Goble, an Air Force veteran and veteran suicide prevention advocate who has led the charge to ensure the 988 Lifeline also provides specialized counseling for all veterans in need of support. “He [Bob] has worked tirelessly to ensure 988 connects his fellow veterans with qualified Veterans Affairs counselors who can provide the specialized mental health support they deserve, and have certainly earned.” Peters concluded, “No one should have to suffer alone. So, if you or someone you know is in need of support, please call, text, or chat 988. Caring counselors are there to help.” You can read more about the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline here. ###",1,2026-09-19T09:11:33Z,2026-09-19T09:12:45Z https://mcdonaldrivet.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-mcdonald-rivet-democratic-womens-caucus-call-hhs-withdraw-dangerous-plan,"Rep. McDonald Rivet, Democratic Women’s Caucus Call on HHS to Withdraw Dangerous Plan to Overhaul Head Start",2026-09-18,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,MI,Kristen McDonald Rivet,M001237,mcdonaldrivet.house.gov,mcdonaldrivet,https://mcdonaldrivet.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON— Congresswoman Kristen McDonald Rivet (MI-08) and the Democratic Women’s Caucus (DWC) sent a letter, calling on the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to withdraw a proposed rule slashing 90% of Head Start Program Performance Standards, which would harm Head Start children, families, and classrooms. “Head Start makes sure children from low-income families and children with disabilities have a loving place to learn and grow. There are decades of research proving Head Start kids do better in school and better in life,” said Congresswoman McDonald Rivet. “This Administration’s proposed overhaul will wreak havoc on what makes Head Start so special. It’ll make it harder for kids to learn, harder for teachers to do their jobs, and harder for working parents to make ends meet. We can’t let it go forward.” For over 60 years, Head Start has provided child care and social services for children from low-income families, children with disabilities, dual language learners, and children experiencing homelessness. HHS’s proposed rule would eliminate over 1,400 regulatory provisions and largely defer rules and guidelines to states and local programs. These changes would severely diminish the quality of Head Start services, including: Weakening protections for children with disabilities. Eliminating federal limits on class size and staff-to-student ratios. Rolling back credential requirements for Head Start staff and teachers. Reducing health and safety protections for children. Cutting program hours. Leading the letter alongside Congresswoman McDonald Rivet are DWC Chair Teresa Leger Fernández (NM-03) and DWC Members Debbie Dingell (MI-06), Brittany Pettersen (CO-07), and Lateefah Simon (CA-12). 70 Members of Congress signed the letter. The letter from the lawmakers reads, in part, “This proposed rule guts an essential early childhood program and its services for hundreds of thousands of women and families nationwide, which would increase their costs and burden to replace those services. In today’s environment of rising costs, it is cruel to make life more difficult and expensive for these families.” A copy of the letter can be found here. Prior to serving in elected office, Congresswoman McDonald Rivet served as Executive Director of Michigan Head Start.",1,2026-09-23T09:45:16Z,2026-09-23T09:46:14Z https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases/barrett-joins-harrigan-davis-increase-rural-access-quality-health-care,"Barrett Joins Harrigan, Davis to Increase Rural Access to Quality Health Care",2026-09-17,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,MI,Tom Barrett,B001321,barrett.house.gov,barrett,https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Today, Congressman Tom Barrett (MI-07) joined Congressmen Pat Harrigan (NC-10) and Don Davis (NC-01) in introducing the Resources for Essential Access to Community Health (REACH) Act. This bipartisan legislation would incentivize health care professionals to serve rural areas and address critical workforce shortages. “Too many of our rural communities don’t have enough doctors and nurses to provide essential care for the local residents who need it,” said Barrett. “Where you live should never be a barrier to accessing quality care. By providing an incentive to attract these professionals to our communities, our bipartisan REACH Act will make health care more affordable and accessible for families in rural mid-Michigan.” Background Specifically, the REACH Act (H.R. 10440) would provide a tax credit of up to $10,000 for primary care physicians (including OB-GYNs), mental health professionals, nurses, and medical residents who work at least 900 hours per year in a rural area. The tax credit would decrease for individuals making more than $170,000. Rural communities face especially severe shortages of medical professionals. Approximately 61% of federally designated Health Professional Shortage Areas are in rural communities, including Eaton and Shiawassee counties. The legislation builds on the historic Rural Health Transformation Program, which Barrett and his colleagues passed into law last year to lower costs and expand access to health care in rural communities. Michigan will be receiving $173 million through the program, including $25 million announced this month to improve technology and internet infrastructure to help rural residents access quality health care.",1,2026-09-18T09:27:43Z,2026-09-18T09:29:09Z https://james.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1305,James: Families should not have to pay higher electric rates due to data centers,2026-09-17,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,MI,John James,J000307,james.house.gov,james,https://james.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. John James voted on Wednesday for legislation to help ensure that companies profiting from data centers are the ones paying the cost of the electric grid upgrades needed to power them. “Families should not have to pay higher electricity prices due to data centers,” said James, R-Shelby Township. “If a local community decides it wants to allow a data center, then the companies that build and profit from the data centers should cover the increased costs. There should be no increase in electricity bills for individual households.” H.R. 9340, the Ratepayer Protection Act, requires state utility regulators and non-regulated utilities to consider implementing a federal standard for large-load customers. Under that standard, new facilities such as data centers with a peak demand of 100 megawatts or more would have to pay for the full incremental cost of power generation, transmission and distribution upgrades required to support the data center. In addition, large-load customers would be required to provide the utility financial assurances to cover the up-front costs in advance of the utility making upgrades, so that the expense does not fall on local residential customers should a project fall through. James said that preventing electricity rates from going up is only one of many factors surrounding the data center issue. He said local communities must retain control, and that data centers must not pollute, including water and noise pollution. He also said that data centers should go on old industrial brownfields, not productive green farmland. The legislation now goes to the Senate for consideration. James represents Michigan’s 10th Congressional District, which includes portions of Oakland and Macomb counties.",1,2026-09-18T09:27:43Z,2026-09-18T09:29:09Z https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-haley-stevens-introduces-bill-named-paul-whelan-help-wrongfully-detained,Rep. Haley Stevens Introduces Bill Named for Paul Whelan to Help Wrongfully Detained Americans Reintegrate into Society,2026-09-17,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,MI,Haley M. Stevens,S001215,stevens.house.gov,stevens,https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Michigan Congresswoman Haley Stevens introduced the Paul Whelan Hostage Compensation and Reintegration Act, legislation to provide support to Americans who have been unlawfully or wrongfully detained abroad as they return home and rebuild their lives. Americans like Paul Whelan, for whom the bill is named, who endure wrongful detention often return home facing profound challenges. In addition to the emotional, mental, and social toll of captivity, former detainees can face severe financial hardship after months or years away from their jobs, families, and communities. Many return to lost income, mounting bills, defaulted loans, housing challenges, and barriers to reentering the workforce. They can also owe back taxes, late fees, and other financial obligations that accumulated while they were held abroad. The Paul Whelan Hostage Compensation and Reintegration Act establishes a formal compensation program for Americans designated as wrongfully detained by the U.S. State Department. Eligible Americans, or their next of kin if the individual died in captivity, would be able to apply for a one-time, lump-sum payment based on the length of their unlawful or wrongful detention abroad. “When an American is wrongfully detained abroad, we do everything we can to bring them home. Our responsibility cannot end the moment they step back on American soil,” said Rep. Haley Stevens. “After enduring months or even years of wrongful detention, Americans shouldn’t have to face back taxes, late fees, lost income, and financial instability when they come home. Paul Whelan’s experience showed our country the extraordinary toll wrongful detention takes not only during captivity, but long after someone returns home. This legislation will make sure Americans who endure this unimaginable ordeal have the support and resources they need to regain their footing, reunite with their communities, and rebuild their lives.” “When a former hostage steps onto U.S. soil, they often return to a home much different than the home they left, and with that loss is usually the loss of their income, health insurance, employment, transportation, and the housing they enjoyed before being held hostage,” said Paul Whelan. “Providing compensation to former hostages is a step in the right direction in supporting their positive and productive reintegration. Thanks to Representative Stevens, we are closer to ensuring that no former hostage is left behind in the struggle to regain their lives.” “Hostage US recognizes the critical need for comprehensive support and services for former hostages and wrongful detainees. This bill represents an important step toward bridging the gap in immediate financial assistance for former wrongful detainees upon return. We are grateful to Representative Haley Stevens, her office, and the contributors for advancing this meaningful effort to strengthen support for returning Americans,” said Liz Cathcart, Executive Director, Hostage US. “No American who has endured the trauma of wrongful detention should be left to shoulder the long-term consequences alone. Survivors often face significant challenges after returning home, including the struggle to become financially stable. The Paul Whelan Hostage Compensation and Reintegration Act represents an important commitment to supporting those who have suffered on behalf of our nation and helping them successfully reintegrate into their communities. We are proud to support its introduction, and we commend Rep. Stevens for ensuring that survivors receive the assistance and recognition they deserve,"" said Foley Foundation President and Founder, Diane Foley. On December 18, 2018, Paul Whelan was arrested in Russia and accused of spying. For nearly six years, Mr. Whelan was wrongfully detained in a Russian prison. Thanks to steadfast advocacy from Rep. Haley Stevens and the Biden Administration, Mr. Whelan was released on August 1, 2024. Mr. Whelan is a Marine veteran and lives in Michigan. Text of the bill can be found here. ###",1,2026-09-18T09:27:43Z,2026-09-18T09:29:09Z https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-peters-leads-annual-bipartisan-resolution-designating-patriot-week,Senator Peters Leads Annual Bipartisan Resolution Designating Patriot Week,2026-09-17,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – For the 8th consecutive year, U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) led the passage of a bipartisan resolution designating September 11th through September 17th as Patriot Week. Patriot Week, co-founded by Oakland County Judge Michael Warren, aims to honor and remember the lives lost in the September 11th terrorist attacks, commemorate Constitution Day on September 17th, and encourage Michigan students to engage in American history. “Patriot Week gives us the opportunity to honor the lives that were lost during the horrific September 11th terrorist attacks and recognize the profound bravery of the first responders who stepped into action on that tragic day,” said Senator Peters. “This resolution serves as a reminder to all Americans that we are at our strongest when we come together, just as we did in the days following September 11th. I want to thank Judge Warren for his continued efforts to help champion this important initiative each year.” “Patriot Week was started in 2009 when my 10-year-old daughter Leah pounded on the table and demanded a new celebration to renew the spirit of America,” said Patriot Week co-founder Michigan Oakland County Circuit Court Judge Michael Warren. “Over the years, we have held countless activities, produced the Patriot Lessons American History and Civics Podcast on all major platforms, the Patriot Lessons TV Show, videos, and lesson plans, all of which can be found at PatriotWeek.org. This year we are sending historical re-enactors into schools, which are being enthusiastically received by thousands of students.” “The Patriot Week Foundation is thrilled that with the bipartisan leadership of Senators Gary Peters and John Kennedy, the United States Senate has unanimously approved its eighth consecutive Patriot Week Resolution,” stated Patriot Week co-founder Dr. Leah Warren. “We are deeply grateful to the Senators and all Patriot Week supporters across America.” Peters introduced the resolution with U.S. Senator John Kennedy (R-LA). The full text of the resolution can be found by clicking here. Peters serves as Ranking Member of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee as well as a member of the Armed Services Committee. Peters volunteered for the U.S. Navy Reserve at age 34, where he earned a Seabee Combat Warfare Specialist designation and rose to the rank of Lieutenant Commander. After the September 11th terrorist attacks on our country, he volunteered again for drilling status and served overseas as part of his Reserve duty. He later earned a diploma from the College of Naval Command and Staff, U.S. Naval War College. ###",1,2026-09-18T09:27:43Z,2026-09-18T09:29:09Z https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/09/17/slotkin-leads-senate-democrats-in-demanding-answers-from-hegseth-on-cost-of-iran-war/,Slotkin Leads Senate Democrats in Demanding Answers from Hegseth on Cost of Iran War,2026-09-17,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"Pentagon Greatly Underestimates Cost of Iran War to Taxpayers and Families WASHINGTON D.C. — U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), member of the Senate Armed Services Committee led 45 of her colleagues, nearly the entire Democratic caucus, in sending a letter to Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, demanding a full accounting of the costs of the ongoing war with Iran. The letter also criticized the Department of Defense for withholding basic budget information from Congress and the American public even as U.S. casualties and taxpayer costs continue to increase. The United States is now more than six months into a conflict President Trump initially said would last six weeks. Eighteen American servicemembers have been killed and more than 820 wounded, and over 50,000 troops are currently deployed to the Middle East. In the letter, Slotkin and her colleagues note that deployments, including for the USS Lincoln and the 82nd Airborne, have been repeatedly extended, and that their offices have heard directly from military families worried about loved ones serving in the conflict. “Meanwhile, at home, American taxpayers have already paid an extra $100 billion out of their pockets for higher gas and diesel prices alone and at least another $60 billion in higher costs for things like groceries, mortgages, and plane tickets as a result of the war,” wrote the Senators. “Now you are asking that they pay again to fund a war of choice that Congress never authorized and the President launched with no strategic plan.” In their letter, the senators highlight the contrast between the current Pentagon’s transparency record with past wartime practice, noting that Hegseth has briefed Congress only seven times in six months and held just eight Pentagon press briefings or interviews since the war began, compared to more than 70 press briefings in the first month of the Iraq War alone. The senators also criticized the administration’s public supplemental funding request as a seven-page document offering only vague line items, in contrast to the detailed, hundred-page supplemental requests provided to Congress during the Iraq and Afghanistan wars. Slotkin and the senators are requesting that the Department of Defense provide: A detailed breakdown of all direct and indirect costs of military operations against Iran to date, including damage to installations, aircraft, and equipment. A full accounting of the $67 billion supplemental request, specifying what covers past costs versus future operations. A detailed plan for how the Pentagon intends to spend the remaining $34 billion from the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. “Despite asking for tens of billions of additional taxpayer dollars, you have so far failed to provide basic information on how this money has and will be spent,” continued the Senators. “Congress must have access to this information to carry out our oversight responsibilities. It is the bare minimum that any American would expect in balancing their own household budget.” Senator Slotkin’s letter was signed by Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Chris Coons (D-DE), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Richard Durbin (D-IL), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Angus King (I-ME), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Ed Markey (D-MA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Patty Murray (D-WA), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Jack Reed (D-RI), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Adam Schiff (D-CA), Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Tina Smith (D-MN), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Mark Warner (D-VA), Raphael G. Warnock (D-GA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Peter Welch (D-VT), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Ron Wyden (D-OR). The full text of the letter is available here.",1,2026-09-18T09:27:43Z,2026-09-18T09:29:09Z https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases/walberg-smith-owens-and-cassidy-lead-bicameral-effort-expand-educational,"Walberg, Smith, Owens, and Cassidy Lead Bicameral Effort to Expand Educational Opportunities",2026-09-17,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,MI,Tim Walberg,W000798,walberg.house.gov,walberg,https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Congressman Tim Walberg (R-MI) joined Rep. Adrian Smith (R-NE), Rep. Burgess Owens (R-UT), and Senator Bill Cassidy (R-LA) in introducing the Educational Opportunities Expansion Package, two bills to strengthen his Federal Scholarship Tax Credit, a key provision of the Working Families Tax Cuts. The package aims to expand educational opportunities for students nationwide by removing the current state opt-in requirement and ensuring that scholarship donors are not restricted in their giving based on their marital status. ""Last year, Republicans' Working Families Tax Cuts became law, delivering the largest expansion of school choice in history. I support giving every family the opportunity to benefit, providing parents with greater flexibility to choose the educational environment that best supports their child’s needs. All children deserve access to an education that helps them achieve the American Dream, no matter their background or address,”said Chairman Walberg. ""My Federal Scholarship Tax Credit marked a critical victory for educational freedom nationwide. However, I know our work is not done. This is why I introduced my Educational Opportunities Expansion Package to ensure students nationwide can reap the full benefits of these scholarships, while also protecting benefactors from penalties based on their marital status. I am grateful for the strong bicameral support of my colleagues, and I look forward to working together to build on our success,” said Smith. “Parents know what is right for their kids much better than any bureaucrat. I’m grateful for this legislation that strengthens school choice policies which puts parents in the driver’s seat of their child’s education and ensures the student can receive the education they deserve,”said Owens. “As parents, we know our children better than anyone. When we put parents in charge of their child’s education, we give children the best opportunity to thrive,”said Dr. Cassidy. “Another win for School Choice!” The Educational Opportunities Expansion Package is supported by the American Federation for Children, Invest in Education Coalition, Federal Scholarship Tax Credit Coalition Steering Committee, Ed Choice, and Agudath Israel of America. BACKGROUND: The Educational Opportunities Expansion Package includes two bills aimed at expanding access to the Federal Scholarship Tax Credit and restoring Congressional intent following changes made during the Senate parliamentarian’s review of the 2025 reconciliation.",1,2026-09-22T09:42:49Z,2026-09-22T09:44:35Z https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-unanimously-passes-barrett-bill-honor-medal-honor-recipient-killed-pearl,House Unanimously Passes Barrett Bill to Honor Medal of Honor Recipient Killed at Pearl Harbor,2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,MI,Tom Barrett,B001321,barrett.house.gov,barrett,https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. - Today, the U.S. House of Representatives unanimously passed Congressman Tom Barrett's (MI-07) bipartisan bill (H.R. 9570) to name the post office in Charlotte, Mich., after U.S. Navy Ensign Francis Flaherty, who was awarded the Medal of Honor for his bravery and sacrifice during Japan's attack on Pearl Harbor. ""Ensign Francis Flaherty truly was a homegrown hero for our Charlotte community,"" Barrett said. ""He selflessly laid down his life during the attacks on Pearl Harbor trying to get his fellow sailors to safety, and his ultimate sacrifice continues to serve as an example for us all. Naming the post office in his honor will further promote and preserve his heroic legacy for generations to come."" Barrett's bill (H.R. 9570) would name the Charlotte post office the ""Francis C. Flaherty Post Office Building."" He introduced the legislation in July with support from all 12 other members of the Michigan delegation in the House of Representatives. Background: Francis Charles Flaherty was born on March 15, 1919, in Charlotte, Michigan. He graduated from Charlotte High School and attended the University of Michigan before joining the U.S. Naval Reserve. Flaherty was stationed on the USS Oklahoma at Pearl Harbor during the December 7, 1941, attack. When the crew was ordered to abandon the sinking ship, Flaherty stayed in his turret, holding a flashlight to help the rest of his turret crew escape and sacrificing his own life. For this heroism, Flaherty was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor, which was presented to his brother. His remains were initially unable to be identified and were buried in the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific in Honolulu, Hawaii. In 2019, the military was able to identify his remains using DNA samples from family members, and the family chose to have him reinterred at the Maple Hill Cemetery in Charlotte in 2021. Barrett, a state senator at the time, participated in the homecoming procession and ceremony along with thousands of attendees, including family members, local residents, and U.S. Navy Rear Admiral Jeff Spivey. Barrett previously led a successful effort to rename a portion of M-50 in Charlotte in honor of Flaherty. The bill that included Barrett's amendment naming the ""Ensign Francis Flaherty Memorial Highway"" passed the Michigan Legislature unanimously, and Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed it into law on July 29, 2021. Click here to read H.R. 9570.",1,2026-09-17T09:52:05Z,2026-09-17T09:53:00Z https://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7344,"Dingell, Bacon Introduce Resolution Designating September as Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month",2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,MI,Debbie Dingell,D000624,debbiedingell.house.gov,debbiedingell,https://debbiedingell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Representatives Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) and Don Bacon (R-NE-02) introduced a bipartisan resolution designating September as Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month to increase awareness of gynecologic cancers and encourage earlier diagnosis and treatment. “Gynecologic cancers affect approximately 100,000 women every year, yet too many face diagnosis when it is already far along,” said Congresswoman Dingell. “This bipartisan resolution is meant to break down stigma, make sure women know the warning signs, and encourage early detection. Early diagnosis saves lives, and we must ensure every woman has access to the comprehensive, affordable care she needs.” “Gynecologic cancers affect thousands of women and families every year, and knowing the warning signs can make a real difference,”said Congressman Bacon. “This resolution will help raise awareness, encourage women to talk with their doctors when something does not seem right and support earlier diagnosis and treatment. I’m pleased to join Rep. Dingell in recognizing September as Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month.” The resolution is endorsed by the Society for Gynecologic Oncology. “Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month is an important opportunity to raise awareness of the five gynecologic cancers and ensure people know the signs and symptoms that may signal a need to speak with their healthcare provider. Early detection and timely access to high-quality, specialized care can make meaningful difference in outcomes and save lives. By increasing awareness, equipping people with the information they need, and breaking down barriers to care, we can help more people get the right diagnosis, treatment, and support, when they need it,” said Matthew A. Powell, MD, President, Society of Gynecologic Oncology. A copy of the letter can be found HERE.",1,2026-09-17T09:52:05Z,2026-09-17T09:53:00Z https://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7347,Dingell Continues Demands for Transparency from University of Michigan on Los Alamos Project,2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,MI,Debbie Dingell,D000624,debbiedingell.house.gov,debbiedingell,https://debbiedingell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) requested a full public disclosure of the underlying agreement between the University of Michigan (U-M) and Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) regarding their proposed joint research computing center in Ypsilanti Township. In a letter to U-M leadership, Congresswoman Dingell channeled the frustrations she has heard from her constituents about the minimal information the community has received about the agreement between U-M and LANL. “Despite the size, scale, and significance of this project, the public has received minimal information about the actual agreement between U-M and LANL, including the legal authority for LANL’s proposed contribution, the source and status of the funds, and the conditions governing any financial commitment. There is an important distinction between an agreement stating that LANL may contribute $300 million and an executed federal appropriation, contract, or other federal financial instrument that has obligated taxpayer dollars for this facility. The public deserves clarity about that distinction and should not have to rely on conflicting or incomplete descriptions of the project’s federal funding,” Congresswoman Dingell wrote. “Given the continued lack of transparency and the significance of the community concerns surrounding this project, I ask that U-M make the underlying agreement publicly available so that Ypsilanti Township residents and local officials can better understand the proposed data center’s structure, funding, and accountability. I also urge U-M to provide clear answers to the following questions.” The letter follows several oversight efforts led by Congresswoman Dingell demanding answers and transparency on the project for her constituents. This month, Congresswoman Dingell expressed her opposition to the Los Alamos Project and called on congress to enact comprehensive guardrails for large scale AI and data-center development. In June 2026, the congresswoman urged leaders at U-M and Los Alamos National Laboratory to respond to Ypsilanti Township community concerns directly and decisively regarding the proposed project. In August 2026, Congresswoman Dingell released a statement criticizing the selection of Ypsilanti Township as the site for the controversial project and called on U-M leadership to fully address the long-standing concerns of residents at its September town hall. A copy of the letter can be found HERE and text is below: Dear President Grasso: This letter is to follow up the ongoing concerns surrounding the proposed University of Michigan-Los Alamos National Laboratory research computing center in Ypsilanti Township and to request additional information regarding the agreement between the University of Michigan (U-M) and Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) to develop this site. I remain deeply frustrated by the lack of transparency, accountability, and meaningful communication surrounding this project. U-M and LANL have continued progress on this data center despite substantial and strong community opposition. Residents have spent years seeking answers about the project’s potential effects on water, electricity, noise, the environment, property values, and quality of life, as well as the roles and responsibilities of the entities involved. The community has been left to piece together information rather than receive clear answers from the institutions responsible for the project. These concerns were particularly evident at U-M’s September 9, 2026, town hall, where residents expressed significant distrust regarding the U-M’s handling of the project. U-M itself acknowledged hearing “enormous anger” and “enormous distrust” from the community. This level of frustration underscores the need for a more transparent and accountable approach moving forward. The community must be treated as a meaningful partner in decisions that will affect its future, not as an afterthought. U-M’s limited public information about the project’s financing and institutional arrangements is concerning. According to current project information, the proposed $1.25 billion facility would involve $300 million from LANL, $850 million from U-M, and $100 million in Strategic Site Readiness Program grant funding from the State of Michigan. The state has also indicated that the LANL facility would conduct federally funded research involving national security, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence (AI), and energy security. Despite the size, scale, and significance of this project, the public has received minimal information about the actual agreement between U-M and LANL, including the legal authority for LANL’s proposed contribution, the source and status of the funds, and the conditions governing any financial commitment. There is an important distinction between an agreement stating that LANL may contribute $300 million and an executed federal appropriation, contract, or other federal financial instrument that has obligated taxpayer dollars for this facility. The public deserves clarity about that distinction and should not have to rely on conflicting or incomplete descriptions of the project’s federal funding. Given the continued lack of transparency and the significance of the community concerns surrounding this project, I ask that U-M make the underlying agreement publicly available so that Ypsilanti Township residents and local officials can better understand the proposed data center’s structure, funding, and accountability. I also urge U-M to provide clear answers to the following questions: 1. What is the date of the agreement between the University of Michigan and Los Alamos National Laboratory to develop this data center? 2. Which parties signed this agreement? 3. Is this agreement legally binding? 4. Have any federal dollars been appropriated for this project? 5. Have any federal dollars been obligated for this project? 6. Have any federal dollars been transferred for this project? 7. What legal authority allows Los Alamos National Laboratory to make the proposed $300 million contribution towards this project? 8. Has the Department of Energy approved or authorized the agreement between the University of Michigan and Los Alamos National Laboratory? 9. What conditions must be met before funding is put towards this project? 10. Was Los Alamos National Laboratory’s commitment to contribute $300 million contingent on site selection? 11. Was Los Alamos National Laboratory’s commitment to contribute $300 million contingent on environmental approvals? 12. Was Los Alamos National Laboratory’s commitment to contribute $300 million contingent on other regulatory approvals? 13. What happens to this commitment if this project is delayed, changed, or cancelled? 14. Who is responsible for cost overruns? 15. Does this agreement include any federal guarantees or commitments? 16. Is there a federal contract, cooperative agreement, grant agreement, memorandum of understanding, or federal instrument associated with this data center agreement or proposed data center? Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to your timely response and to U-M’s cooperation in providing the transparency and information the community deserves.",1,2026-09-17T09:52:05Z,2026-09-17T09:53:00Z https://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7348,Dingell Requests Review of Environmental Status of Proposed Site of Los Alamos Project,2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,MI,Debbie Dingell,D000624,debbiedingell.house.gov,debbiedingell,https://debbiedingell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) is requesting the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) conduct a formal review of the environmental status of the Textile Road Site in Ypsilanti Township, which has been selected for the proposed University of Michigan-Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) research computing center. “The selection of this site, despite ongoing environmental concerns, warrants additional scrutiny. The proposed facility is a major development that should not move forward without a clear understanding of the site’s environmental history, remaining contamination, applicable restrictions, and the protections necessary to safeguard public health and the surrounding community,” Congresswoman Dingell wrote. The letter follows several oversight efforts led by Congresswoman Dingell demanding answers and transparency on the project for her constituents. This month, Congresswoman Dingell expressed her opposition to the Los Alamos Project and called on congress to enact comprehensive guardrails for large scale AI and data-center development. In June 2026, the congresswoman urged leaders at U-M and Los Alamos National Laboratory to respond to Ypsilanti Township community concerns directly and decisively regarding the proposed project. In August 2026, Congresswoman Dingell released a statement criticizing the selection of Ypsilanti Township as the site for the controversial project and called on U-M leadership to fully address the long-standing concerns of residents at its September town hall. A copy of the letter can be found HERE and below: Dear Administrator Zeldin and Director Roos: This letter is to request a formal review of the environmental status of the Textile Road Site in Ypsilanti Township, which has been selected for the proposed University of Michigan-Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) research computing center. The selection of this site, despite ongoing environmental concerns, warrants additional scrutiny. The proposed facility is a major development that should not move forward without a clear understanding of the site’s environmental history, remaining contamination, applicable restrictions, and the protections necessary to safeguard public health and the surrounding community. As you know, federal cleanup of the site was conducted under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA), commonly known as Superfund. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) maintains a CERCLA record for the Textile Road Site [EPA ID MID980825558], which is located near the former General Motors (GM) Willow Run Plant. EPA records indicate that removal and cleanup work has been completed and that the site is now in an oversight and management phase. The completion of cleanup activities does not resolve all questions about a site’s environmental status or the protections that may remain necessary. The public deserves a clear understanding of what contamination remains, what monitoring is required, and whether future construction activities could disturb contaminated soil or groundwater. The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) also has an important role in maintaining information about contaminated properties and environmental restrictions in Michigan. EGLE’s RIDE Mapper identifies federally regulated Superfund sites and Michigan-regulated contaminated properties, including sites subject to environmental restrictions. EGLE also has responsibilities under Michigan’s environmental remediation laws, including Part 201 of the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act. The need for clarity is particularly important as data center development accelerates nationwide. Recent reporting has described federal efforts to streamline environmental permitting for data centers, including potential changes affecting pollution permitting and public participation. Accelerating development must not come at the expense of careful environmental review, meaningful public participation, or the enforcement of protections designed to prevent exposure to contamination. For a project proposed on a site with a documented environmental history, those safeguards are vital. Given the joint responsibilities of EPA and EGLE in evaluating environmental risks and overseeing remediation, I request that both agencies formally review the current environmental status of the Textile Road Site and identify what environmental protections, monitoring requirements, and restrictions remain in effect, while responding to the following questions: What contamination remains at or near this proposed site? What soil and groundwater monitoring requirements currently apply to this site, including any requirements established through CERCLA, state remediation programs, or other applicable authorities? Who is responsible for conducting the required monitoring, and who is responsible for overseeing compliance? How frequently are soil and groundwater samples collected, and what contaminants are included in the required testing? Where are this site’s monitoring wells located, and can EPA and EGLE provide a map identifying their locations relative to this site? What are the most recent soil and groundwater monitoring results, and do those results identify any ongoing contamination, environmental risks, or additional monitoring needs? Are there any existing land-use restrictions, institutional controls, environmental covenants, or other restrictions applicable to this property? Could anticipated construction activities, including excavation, grading, foundation construction, utility installation, or dewatering, disturb contaminated soil or groundwater, interfere with existing environmental protections, or otherwise create additional environmental risks? What environmental reviews, permits, approvals, or other requirements must be completed before construction may begin, including any additional investigation or remediation that may be necessary given the site’s environmental history? What agency has the legal authority to require construction to stop, impose additional protective measures, or otherwise intervene if contamination is discovered, disturbed, or presents an environmental risk during construction? Who would be responsible for paying for any additional environmental testing, monitoring, remediation, or environmental response necessitated by this project? EPA and EGLE should coordinate, as appropriate, to clearly establish which entity is responsible for each aspect of environmental monitoring, remediation, and construction oversight. Additionally, copies of any relevant environmental assessments, monitoring reports, institutional controls, environmental covenants, or other documents necessary to understand the site’s current environmental status should be made public and easily accessible. The community deserves clear answers about the conditions of a site that may host a massive research computing facility. Thank you for your attention to this matter, and I look forward to your timely response.",1,2026-09-17T09:52:05Z,2026-09-17T09:53:00Z https://mcdonaldrivet.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-mcdonald-rivet-davis-lead-new-push-stop-tax-giveaways-data-centers,"Reps. McDonald Rivet, Davis Lead New Push to Stop Tax Giveaways for Data Centers",2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,MI,Kristen McDonald Rivet,M001237,mcdonaldrivet.house.gov,mcdonaldrivet,https://mcdonaldrivet.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"*WATCH REP. McDONALD RIVET’S OPENING REMARKS HERE* WASHINGTON— Today, Representatives Kristen McDonald Rivet (MI-08) and Don Davis (NC-01) led 25 Members of Congress in introducing the Reverse Big Ugly Tax Breaks for Data Centers Act, which would rein in tax giveaways for data center development. Last year, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) significantly expanded tax breaks that have helped spur the construction of AI data centers; that same legislation cut over $1 trillion from Medicaid and SNAP food assistance. The Reverse Big Ugly Tax Breaks for Data Centers Act would exclude data centers from benefiting from those OBBBA tax breaks. Specifically, the bill would exclude data centers from being able to take the 100% bonus depreciation tax deduction, and from being eligible for Opportunity Zone tax benefits. Congresswoman McDonald Rivet said, “Washington is giving handouts to Big Tech companies while American families are drowning — I hear that word, ‘drowning,’ all the time from working parents back home. Tax cuts need to go to families, not data centers. We absolutely should not cut health care and food assistance for children and seniors to pay for tax giveaways to corporations. We have to fix it.” Congressman Davis said, “When families are struggling at the pump, in the grocery store, and with rising utility bills, we cannot give data centers a blank check. We need time to fully understand the costs and consequences of these projects, including their impact on power grids, water systems, and utility costs for rural communities across eastern North Carolina and our nation.” The bill text can be found HERE, and a one-pager on the bill can be found HERE. Other members introducing the bill include Representatives Kathy Castor (FL-14), Sharice Davids (KS-03), Madeleine Dean (PA-04), Chris Deluzio (PA-17), Vicente Gonzalez (TX-34), Adelita Grijalva (AZ-07), Greg Landsman (OH-01), Rick Larsen (WA-02), Mike Levin (CA-49), John Mannion (NY-22), April McClain Delaney (MD-06), Betty McCollum (MN-04), Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), Chris Pappas (NH-01), Deborah Ross (NC-02), Andrea Salinas (OR-06), Greg Stanton (AZ-04), Dina Titus (NV-01), Norma Torres (CA-35), Derek Tran (CA-45), Gabe Vasquez (NM-02), Eugene Vindman (VA-07), and Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25).",1,2026-09-17T09:52:05Z,2026-09-17T09:53:00Z https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-scholten-announces-116-million-health-care-research-and,Congresswoman Scholten Announces $11.6 Million for Health Care Research and Supportive Services in West Michigan,2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,MI,Hillary J. Scholten,S001221,scholten.house.gov,scholten,https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC — Today, Congresswoman Hillary Scholten (D-MI-03) announced $11,656,359 for a variety of medical research projects and investments in community health and well-being services across West Michigan. The funding is through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). “West Michigan continues to lead the way in medical research and community care, and these investments reflect the strength and diversity of the work happening right here in our district,” said Congresswoman Scholten. “From advancing research on diabetes, cancer, and autoimmune diseases to supporting youth in need of housing, these grants will make a real difference in people’s lives. Federal investments like these are exactly how the government should be showing up for our communities, and I’ll keep fighting to secure them.” Individual awards listed below: This funding reflects Rep. Scholten's ongoing commitment to bringing federal investment back to Michigan's Third Congressional District. These investments will keep West Michigan at the forefront of medical research and accessible community health care. ###",1,2026-09-17T09:52:05Z,2026-09-17T09:53:00Z https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-scholten-secures-key-wins-west-michigan-passage-2026-water,Congresswoman Scholten Secures Key Wins for West Michigan in the Passage of the 2026 Water Resources Development Act,2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,MI,Hillary J. Scholten,S001221,scholten.house.gov,scholten,https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC — Today, Congresswoman Hillary Scholten (D-MI-03), member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and Vice Chair of the Water Resources and Environment Subcommittee, secured key policy victories and critical investments for West Michigan in the House passage of the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) 2026. “Investing in water infrastructure means investing in jobs, environmental resilience, and the economic health of our local communities,” said Congresswoman Scholten. “As Vice Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Water Resources and Environment, I know how important it is that we work across the aisle to address the water infrastructure needs our country is facing. I am proud of the work of this Committee in getting this critical legislation passed, and I look forward to working with my Senate colleagues to get it across the finish line.” Congresswoman Scholten’s specific wins include: $115 million in new environmental infrastructure authorizations between Kent, Ottawa, and Muskegon Counties, as well as the state of Michigan, for water and wastewater infrastructure, including stormwater management and surface water resource protection. The expedited completion of the streambank erosion and shoreline protection project in Muskegon Heights. Language to direct the Army Corps to assess the impact of data centers on water resources. The necessary authorization for a watershed-based study for the Muskegon River. Several Great Lakes priorities, including language to adjust wage rates for Soo Locks employees; reauthorize the Great Lakes Commission; provide status updates on the Great Lakes recreational boating study; and expand funding eligibility to control aquatic plants and invasive species. Dredging reforms to require local coordination and safe disposal of contaminated materials. The reauthorization of FEMA’s High Hazard Potential Dam Program, and for language to assess levee risk, after significant flooding in Michigan this year. A video of Congresswoman Scholten leading debate in support of WRDA26 on the House Floor is available here. ###",1,2026-09-17T09:52:05Z,2026-09-17T09:53:00Z https://thanedar.house.gov/media/press-releases/representatives-shri-thanedar-bonnie-watson-coleman-introduce-legislation-to-strengthen-ice-reporting-standards,"Representatives Shri Thanedar, Bonnie Watson Coleman Introduce Legislation to Strengthen ICE Reporting Standards",2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,MI,Shri Thanedar,T000488,thanedar.house.gov,thanedar,https://thanedar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC - Yesterday, Representative Shri Thanedar and Representative Bonnie Watson Coleman introduced the No ICE Deaths in the Dark Act, comprehensive legislation that will ensure that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) reports quickly and transparently on any deaths that occur in ICE custody. In a reversal from previous policy, ICE is no longer required to report certain deaths that occur within 30 days after release from custody, even when ICE detention or release conditions may have contributed to the death. This legislation would codify Biden-era reporting rules that required full reporting on these and all other deaths in ICE custody. “Since President Trump took office, ICE has gotten out of control, detaining a record number of Americans in horrific conditions,” said Representative Shri Thanedar. “It is beyond unacceptable that detainees are dying in custody and ICE is refusing to report their deaths. I’m proud to introduce this necessary legislation with Representative Bonnie Watson Coleman to ensure ICE finally acts with the transparency the American people deserve and to protect the lives of those in detention centers.” “ICE has had free reign to attack people in front of cameras, so it’s imperative we demand to see what is going on behind closed doors,” said Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman. “Edwin Lopez-Cornejo, one of my constituents, was denied medical care and died in ICE custody. How many other detainees have suffered from medical neglect while in custody, only to die once released? These people deserve justice too.” This legislation is co-sponsored by Representatives Steve Cohen, Herb Conaway, Jasmine Crockett, Danny K. Davis, Veronica Escobar, Adriano Espaillat, Jesus G. “Chuy” Garcia, Dan Goldman, Al Green, Hank Johnson, Betty McCollum, LaMonica McIver, Analilia Mejia, Seth Moulton, Eleanor Holmes Norton, Jan Schakowsky, Bennie G. Thompson, Rashida Tlaib, and Mike Quigley. It has also been endorsed by the following organizations: Asian Americans Advancing Justice, Coalition on Human Needs, Emgage Action, ICE Out of NJ Collective, Make the Road NJ, New Jersey Alliance for Immigrant Justice, Public Citizen, and the Vera Institute of Justice. The full text of the legislation can be seen here. Congressman Shri Thanedar proudly represents Michigan's 13th Congressional District, which includes Detroit, Downriver, and the Grosse Pointes. As a champion for working families, Shri is committed to advancing economic opportunities, education, healthcare access, and entrepreneurship for underserved communities. Drawing from his journey from poverty to success, he works tirelessly to uplift Metro Detroit, ensuring every resident has the resources and support they need to thrive. ###",1,2026-09-17T09:52:05Z,2026-09-17T09:53:00Z https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/commerce-committee-passes-peters-bipartisan-bill-to-bolster-great-lakes-conservation-efforts,Commerce Committee Passes Peters’ Bipartisan Bill to Bolster Great Lakes Conservation Efforts,2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – The Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee passed bipartisan legislation led by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) to strengthen federal support for Great Lakes research and conservation efforts. The Regional Great Lakes Partnership Act of 2026 – which Peters introduced with U.S. Senator Bernie Moreno (R-OH) – would designate the Great Lakes Commission (GLC) as the Regional Great Lakes Partnership under the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Regional Ocean Partnerships Program. This designation ensures that the Great Lakes region receives a fair share of program funding, delivering federal resources to support the GLC’s longstanding work to coordinate Great Lakes research and conservation efforts. The bill now advances to the full Senate. “The Great Lakes are essential to our economy, our environment, and our way of life in Michigan,” said Senator Peters, Co-Chair of the Senate Great Lakes Task Force. “That’s why I have long fought to protect the federal conservation programs that deliver for our Great Lakes. This commonsense, bipartisan bill does just that. With more secure financial backing, the GLC can continue spearheading region-wide efforts to keep our Great Lakes healthy and vibrant for future generations.” “The Great Lakes Commission is grateful to Senators Peters and Moreno for introducing this important legislation to designate the GLC as a regional partnership for the Great Lakes,” said GLC Chair Timothy Bruno, Great Lakes Program Coordinator at the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection. “This designation will allow the agency to build on its more than 70 years of regional leadership - fostering dialogue, building consensus, and advancing coordinated solutions to the Great Lakes’ most pressing challenges - to ensure the Great Lakes region continues to speak with a strong, unified voice. We look forward to working with our partners to realize the full benefits of this program for the region.” The GLC is an interstate agency that brings together eight U.S. states and two Canadian provinces to protect the Great Lakes and our environment and promote economic growth in the Great Lakes basin. The GLC is comprised of the States of Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin. NOAA’s Regional Ocean Partnerships (ROPs) coordinate interstate ocean and coastal resource management efforts and create opportunities for increased efficiency and cost-effectiveness. There are four ROPs, located in the Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, Gulf, and West Coast. However, there is currently no Great Lakes ROP. Peters’ bipartisan bill would establish the GLC as the NOAA ROP for the Great Lakes region, ensuring the Great Lakes region receives its fair share of program funding. Peters has made protecting the Great Lakes for future generations a key priority throughout his entire career. As Co-Chair of the Senate Great Lakes Task Force, Peters plays a key role in uniting Great Lakes lawmakers to coordinate legislative initiatives, funding priorities, and oversight efforts to address the most important issues facing the Great Lakes, such as invasive species, environmental contamination, shoreline erosion, water quality, infrastructure needs, and more. Peters has consistently led the charge to fund the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, which has helped restore and transform the health of our treasured bodies of water. In 2021, he helped secure $1 billion for the program – the largest investment in GLRI ever – as part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Today, he is leading the effort to reauthorize the program for another five years at increased funding levels, which would put GLRI on solid footing for years to come. Peters also created the U.S. Coast Guard Great Lakes Oil Spill Center of Expertise. Collocated in Ann Arbor and Sault Ste. Marie, the center is actively working to develop best practices for effectively responding to an oil spill in freshwater environments like the Great Lakes. ###",1,2026-09-17T09:52:05Z,2026-09-17T09:53:00Z https://mcclain.house.gov/2026/9/chairwoman-mcclain-secures-50-million-for-water-projects-in-house-passed-wrda-bill,Chairwoman McClain Secures $50 Million for Water Projects in House-Passed WRDA bill,2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,MI,Lisa C. McClain,M001136,mcclain.house.gov,mcclain,https://mcclain.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – House Republican Conference Chairwoman Lisa McClain (R-Mich.) today secured authorization for $50,000,000 in water infrastructure projects in Lapeer, Macomb, Oakland, and St. Clair Counties in the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2026. The legislation now heads to the Senate for further consideration. “When you turn on the tap, you expect clean, safe drinking water to come out,” Chairwoman McClain said. “But as many families in Michigan know, aging infrastructure means we can’t take that for granted. This $50 million authorization will help communities upgrade the water systems families and businesses rely on every single day. The legislation comes after a May 2026 water main break left families and businesses in Lake Orion and surrounding communities without running water for days. Subject to appropriations, the funding authorized by WRDA 2026will allow the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to partner with local communities to improve water supply resiliency in the future. ###",1,2026-09-18T09:27:43Z,2026-09-18T09:29:09Z https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases/walberg-backed-ratepayer-protection-act-passes-house-0,Walberg-Backed Ratepayer Protection Act Passes House,2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,MI,Tim Walberg,W000798,walberg.house.gov,walberg,https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congressman Tim Walberg (MI-05) voted to pass the Ratepayer Protection Act, legislation that would require state public utility commissions to consider a strategy to make data centers pay their own way instead of passing costs on to American consumers. The Ratepayer Protection Act codifies the White House’s Ratepayer Protection Pledge from earlier this year, under which more than 300 other organizations ranging from utilities to data center developers committed to protecting communities from increased costs resulting from data center construction. The legislation would have state utility commissions consider large-load standards for data centers drawing more than 100 MW of power, to ensure they pay for the full incremental costs to serve their loads.",1,2026-09-18T09:27:43Z,2026-09-18T09:29:09Z https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases/walberg-votes-strengthen-oversight-and-crack-down-fraud,Walberg Votes to Strengthen Oversight and Crack Down on Fraud,2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,MI,Tim Walberg,W000798,walberg.house.gov,walberg,https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congressman Tim Walberg (MI-05) voted in favor of two bills that would strengthen federal oversight of taxpayer-funded programs and crack down on fraud. The National Fraud Enforcement Division Act and the Preventing Rip-offs and Obtaining Oversight of Funds (PROOF) Act passed the House by votes of 352-72 and 217-207, respectively. ""Federal programs should support real families, rather than fraudsters,"" said Rep. Walberg. ""As Chair of the Education and Workforce Committee, I helped usher multiple bills through the House earlier this year to strengthen oversight and institute safeguards against fraud in federal student aid and child care programs. These bills would build upon these efforts to further identify and crack down on fraud and hold criminals who are exploiting the system accountable."" Background Each year, fraudsters steal billions of dollars from Americans and taxpayer-funded programs, with the Government Accountability Office estimating up to $521 billion being lost due to fraudulent payments. The National Fraud Enforcement Division Act would codify President Trump's Division for National Fraud Enforcement within the Department of Justice. Since its establishment in January, the division has uncovered billions of dollars in fraud. This legislation would ensure that an office is permanently in place to combat fraud across the federal government, safeguard taxpayer dollars, and hold fraudsters accountable. The Preventing Rip-offs and Obtaining Oversight of Funds (PROOF) Act would improve information-sharing between state administrators and federal law enforcement, making it easier to identify fraud more quickly.",1,2026-09-18T09:27:43Z,2026-09-18T09:29:09Z https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases/walbergs-legislation-bridge-digital-divide-advanced-energy-and-commerce,Walberg's Legislation to Bridge the Digital Divide Advanced by Energy and Commerce Committee,2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,MI,Tim Walberg,W000798,walberg.house.gov,walberg,https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, the Energy and Commerce Committee voted to pass the Proper Leadership to Align Networks (PLAN) for Broadband Act. Introduced by Congressmen Tim Walberg (R-MI) and Scott Peters (D-CA), the bipartisan legislation would implement a national strategy to accelerate the deployment of critical broadband infrastructure across the country. ""We cannot let Michigan's rural communities get left behind in today's digital age due to fragmented and overlapping broadband deployment efforts,"" said Rep. Walberg. ""I am proud to see the Energy and Commerce Committee advance the PLAN for Broadband Act to improve the efficiency and coordination of federal broadband programs. Developing a detailed roadmap that streamlines deployment efforts is a commonsense step we can take to increase reliable high-speed internet access for the rural communities that need it most."" ""For too long, broadband has failed to reach many of the communities who need it most,"" said Rep. Peters. ""This shortfall has left constituents in San Diego and communities across the country still waiting to be connected to the internet. Today, I'm glad to see the PLAN for Broadband Act pass out of committee, bringing us one step closer to closing the digital divide."" Background The PLAN for Broadband Act is based upon a Government Accountability Office report that found that federal broadband efforts are oftentimes fragmented and duplicative. While enough federal funding exists to bridge the digital divide, a national broadband strategy is needed to avoid duplicative efforts and ensure that funds are available to reach the truly unserved and underserved areas. The PLAN forBroadband Act would require the Administration to develop and implement a national strategy to close the digital divide.",1,2026-09-18T09:27:43Z,2026-09-18T09:29:09Z https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases/happening-soon-rep-haley-stevens-address-congress-60-minutes-democratic-vision,HAPPENING SOON: Rep. Haley Stevens to Address Congress for 60 Minutes on the Democratic Vision for America,2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,MI,Haley M. Stevens,S001215,stevens.house.gov,stevens,https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC — This evening, Congresswoman Haley Stevens (D-MI) will take to the House floor for a sixty-minute address to reflect on her time in Congress and her work alongside her Democratic colleagues. The address will be streamed live here ###",1,2026-09-22T09:42:49Z,2026-09-22T09:44:35Z https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-scholten-statement-hr-5334-lindsay-o-graham-sanctioning-russia,Congresswoman Scholten Statement on H.R. 5334 Lindsay O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026,2026-09-16,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,MI,Hillary J. Scholten,S001221,scholten.house.gov,scholten,https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congresswoman Hillary Scholten (D-MI-03), released the following statement on her vote against the H.R. 5334 Lindsay O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Actof2026. “President Trump already has every tool at his disposal to sanction Russia and help Ukraine. If he had wanted to sanction Russia, he would have done it already. But instead of doing that, his family is partying with Russian oligarchs. Today’s vote is the sickest of its kind—using the good people of Ukraine as a ploy to give the President even more unchecked authority to enact his reckless tariff regime that is crippling American families. Under this tariff scheme, American families have already paid over $4,200 more on average per year and could pay an additional $8,000 under this bill. Enough is enough. It’s time to hold Russia accountable with meaningful sanctions, and put tariff control back in the hands of Congress where it belongs.” ###",1,2026-09-23T09:45:16Z,2026-09-23T09:46:14Z https://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7327,"Dingell Passes Bill through House to Support Conservation of Birds, Bird Habitats",2026-09-15,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,MI,Debbie Dingell,D000624,debbiedingell.house.gov,debbiedingell,https://debbiedingell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell (D-MI) passed the bipartisan Local Communities & Bird Habitat Stewardship Act to establish a federal grant program to support conservation of birds and habitats in urban areas. The bill passed the House of Representatives and now goes to the U.S. Senate for consideration. “Birds play an important role in our ecosystems and our everyday lives, but unfortunately, we have lost nearly 3 billion birds in the last 50 years, and we need to take serious action to address this crisis,” Congresswoman Dingell said. “The Local Communities & Bird Habitat Stewardship Act will provide federal funding to restore bird habitats and educate communities about the small steps we can all take to protect bird populations for generations to come.” In North America, one in four breeding birds has been lost since 1970. The widespread loss and degradation of habitat is the biggest driver of bird population decline. Restoring bird habitat in urban areas can make a significant difference in conserving bird populations. The Local Communities & Bird Habitat Stewardship Act would make $200,000 available annually through a competitive grant program to eligible entities, including Tribal, State, or municipal agencies, nongovernmental organizations, community groups, and academic institutions, to promote urban bird conservation. Specifically, the grant program aims to: protect, restore, or enhance urban habitats for birds, including through the control of invasive species and the restoration of native plant species; reduce urban hazards to birds; and educate and engage communities in scientific activities involving the monitoring of birds and the habitats of such birds in urban areas. educate and engage communities in scientific activities involving the monitoring of birds and the habitats of such birds in urban areas. protect, restore, or enhance urban habitats for birds, including through the control of invasive species and the restoration of native plant species; reduce urban hazards to birds; and educate and engage communities in scientific activities involving the monitoring of birds and the habitats of such birds in urban areas. protect, restore, or enhance urban habitats for birds, including through the control of invasive species and the restoration of native plant species; reduce urban hazards to birds; and educate and engage communities in scientific activities involving the monitoring of birds and the habitats of such birds in urban areas. protect, restore, or enhance urban habitats for birds, including through the control of invasive species and the restoration of native plant species; reduce urban hazards to birds; and educate and engage communities in scientific activities involving the monitoring of birds and the habitats of such birds in urban areas.",1,2026-09-16T09:43:13Z,2026-09-16T09:44:22Z https://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7329,"Dingell Opposes Los Alamos Project, Calls on Congress to Enact Guardrails Against A.I.",2026-09-15,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,MI,Debbie Dingell,D000624,debbiedingell.house.gov,debbiedingell,https://debbiedingell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) expressed opposition to the proposed University of Michigan (U-M) Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) research computing center at the Textile Road site in Ypsilanti Township. In a letter sent to Ypsilanti Township and U-M leadership, Congresswoman Dingell also called on Congress to enact comprehensive guardrails for large-scale AI and data-center development. “The lesson from the U-M-LANL proposal is clear: the United States and the State of Michigan need the rules now, not later. The public deserves transparency before commitments are made, enforceable protections before construction begins, and a meaningful voice when a project has the potential to fundamentally change a community,” said Congresswoman Dingell.“For all of these reasons, I strongly oppose the proposed Textile Road Site in Ypsilanti Township. My opposition is not opposition to the University of Michigan, it is not opposition to research, and it is not opposition to artificial intelligence. Rather, my opposition is a demand that a project of this size and significance be developed responsibly, transparently, and with the people who will live with its consequences having a meaningful voice. The environmental history of the site makes the need for independent review even more important. The questions about water, electricity, schools, noise, and local authority make meaningful community involvement essential. We should not build first and regulate later. Innovation matters, but protecting our lives, our freedoms, our humanity, and our future must come first.” The latest letter follows several oversight efforts led by Congresswoman Dingell demanding answers and transparency on the project for her constituents. In June 2026, the congresswoman urged leaders at U-M and Los Alamos National Laboratory to respond to Ypsilanti Township community concerns directly and decisively regarding the proposed project. In August 2026, Congresswoman Dingell released a statement criticizing the selection of Ypsilanti Township as the site for the controversial project and called on U-M leadership to fully address the long-standing concerns of residents at its September town hall. A copy of the letter can be found HERE and below: Dear Supervisor Stumbo and members of the Ypsilanti Township community: The proposed University of Michigan-Los Alamos research computing center in Ypsilanti Township has become a deeply troubling example of what happens when a major project moves faster than meaningful community engagement, transparency, and public accountability. The University of Michigan (U-M) has repeatedly failed to adequately communicate with the community, particularly those who live closest to the proposed site. Residents have spent years asking basic questions about the project, its environmental impacts, its water and electricity demands, its noise, its long-term operation, and who ultimately has the authority to make decisions. Instead of receiving clear answers early in the process, the community has too often been left to piece together information without receiving the answers or facts it deserves. That frustration was on full display at the recent U-M town hall on September 9, 2026, where residents expressed anger and distrust toward university officials. U-M itself acknowledged hearing “enormous anger” and “enormous distrust” from the community. These concerns are not imaginary or isolated. Local officials and residents have repeatedly questioned the project’s potential effects on water, electricity, property values, quality of life, noise, and the environment. The community should and deserves to be treated as a partner, not as an afterthought, and U-M’s handling of the site-selection process has only deepened that distrust. Making matters worse, the roles and responsibilities of the entities involved in this project remain unclear and insufficiently transparent. U-M’s current information states that the $1.25 billion project involves $300 million from Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL), $850 million from U-M, and $100 million from the State of Michigan through a Strategic Site Readiness Program grant. The state has announced that the LANL facility would conduct federally funded research involving national security, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence (AI), and energy security. Governmental Authority and Public Accountability We need to be clear about the roles of federal, state, and local governments in this project. The project involves different layers of authority, including U-M as a public university and the activities authorized by its Board of Regents; the State of Michigan, because the project is supported by $100 million in state funding approved by the Michigan Legislature and is subject to applicable state laws and regulations; a reported agreement between U-M and LANL because of the stated federal research mission; and local government, with respect to the authority state law leaves to the township. U-M has asserted that, as a state constitutional institution, it is exempt from ordinary local zoning and taxes. That legal question is central to this dispute. If a public university’s constitutional authority permits it to override local land-use decisions, the Michigan Legislature needs to determine whether that framework remains appropriate for projects of this size and potential impact. This should not be decided project by project. Communities deserve clarity about their authority when a state institution proposes an industrial-scale facility in or near their neighborhoods. No community should have to discover after decisions have been made who has authority over water, electricity, environmental protections, noise, traffic, emergency planning, and other impacts for a project of this size. Those responsibilities must be established publicly and in writing before a project of this magnitude moves forward. I understand that legislation has been introduced by Michigan State Representatives, including Representatives Jason Morgan, Morgan Foreman, Carrie Rheingans, Jimmie Wilson, and Jennifer Conlin of the Washtenaw legislative delegation, to address some of these issues, and I urge state legislators to support it. Additional work and legislation across all levels of government are necessary to establish clear rules and accountability in this area. Federal Funding and the University of Michigan-Los Alamos National Laboratory Agreement We need clarity about the federal agreement between U-M, LANL, and federal partners. Specifically, does a contractual financial commitment exist between Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL), the University of Michigan, and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) regarding this proposed facility? If so, what are the roles, responsibilities, financial interests, and contractual obligations of each party? At the time the program was announced, the University stated in its “Make It In Michigan FAQ National AI Research Center” memorandum: Has the federal funding already been approved/Is there a chance they won’t have it? Federal funding to support this project has not yet been appropriated. However, Los Alamos National Lab has consistently received its funding because its purpose is so vital to national security. In fact, in January 2023, it was reported that LANL received an unprecedented $4.6 billion budget (Source: Albuquerque Journal). There is an important distinction between a statement that LANL may contribute $300 million under an agreement and an executed federal appropriation or federal contract that has obligated federal taxpayer dollars for this facility. My understanding from multiple official inquiries that I submitted is that there is no federal money appropriated and there is not a federal financial commitment. There is an important distinction between a statement that LANL may contribute $300 million under an agreement and an executed federal appropriation or federal contract that has obligated federal taxpayer dollars for this facility. My understanding from multiple official inquiries that I submitted is that there is no federal money appropriated and there is not a federal financial commitment. The public should not have to rely on conflicting descriptions. That is why I urge U-M and LANL to publicly produce the agreement, identify the legal authority and source of the dollars, identify whether the dollars have actually been appropriated or obligated, and identify every condition that must be satisfied before any federal money can be spent. This is basic transparency for a project involving more than $1 billion dollars and a federal national laboratory. I will be seeking answers from the University of Michigan in a separate letter regarding the exact agreement between LANL and U-M. The public should be able to understand: ● The date of the agreement; ● The parties who signed it; ● Whether it is legally binding; ● Whether any federal dollars have actually been appropriated, obligated, or transferred; ● What legal authority allows LANL to make the proposed $300 million contribution; ● Whether DOE has approved or authorized the agreement; ● What conditions must be met before any money is provided; ● Whether the $300 million is contingent on site selection or environmental or other regulatory approvals; ● What happens to the commitment if the project is delayed, changed, or cancelled; ● Who is responsible for cost overruns; ● Whether there are any federal guarantees or commitments; and ● Whether there is a federal contract, cooperative agreement, grant agreement, memorandum of understanding, or other federal instrument associated with the proposed facility. Concerns at the Textile Road Site The selection of the Textile Road Site in Ypsilanti Township, despite ongoing environmental concerns, requires additional scrutiny. There are specific environmental concerns related to the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) designation of the site under the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA), commonly known as Superfund, including its close proximity to the former General Motors (GM) Willow Run Plant. The federal cleanup of the site was conducted under CERCLA and its implementing regulations under the National Contingency Plan. Today, EPA maintains a CERCLA record [EPA ID MID980825558] for the Textile Road Site. EPA has stated that removal and cleanup work was completed and that the site is now in an oversight and management phase. EPA’s administrative record identifies the Textile Road Site as a Superfund site and documents EPA’s response actions under CERCLA. That history requires scrutiny, transparency, and answers for the community. Likewise, the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) maintains the state’s contaminated-site databases and RIDE Mapper, which includes federal Superfund sites and Michigan-regulated contaminated properties. EGLE also has responsibilities under Michigan’s environmental laws governing environmental remediation. EPA and EGLE should publicly establish the current environmental status of the site and clearly identify which agency has responsibility for each aspect of monitoring, remediation, and construction oversight. I will be requesting in a separate letter that EPA and EGLE formally review the current status of the Textile Road Site and determine what environmental protections, monitoring, and restrictions remain in effect. We need answers to the following questions: ● What contamination remains at or near the proposed development site? ● What soil and groundwater monitoring is currently required? ● Who is responsible for conducting that monitoring? ● How frequently are samples taken? ● What contaminants are being tested for? ● Where are the monitoring wells located? ● What are the most recent test results? ● Are there existing land-use restrictions, institutional controls, environmental covenants, or other restrictions on the property? ● Could excavation, grading, foundations, utility installation, dewatering, or other construction activities disturb contaminated soil or groundwater? ● What agency has the authority to stop construction if contamination is discovered or disturbed? ● What additional environmental review is required before construction? ● Who will pay for any additional testing, remediation, or environmental response necessitated by the project? Concerns about nearby schools are also important, and U-M must address potential impacts on nearby students, teachers, and school operations. That should include construction traffic, noise, air quality, emergency planning, environmental risks, and any other foreseeable impacts. Parents should not have to wait until construction begins to find out what a high-performance computing facility could mean for schools in the surrounding area. Federal and State Guardrails for AI and Data Centers The concerns raised by this project also point to a much larger national and state issue. The United States and Michigan need comprehensive guardrails for large-scale AI and data-center development. AI development can and should continue, but it must be responsible development that protects communities, clean water, environmental protections, and residential ratepayers. The recent warnings by AI executives themselves, their employees, and other experts are chilling and require immediate policy action. That’s why I believe at the federal level, Congress must act now to establish appropriate guardrails. At a minimum, these standards should ensure: ● Large data centers, not residential ratepayers, pay the costs of the generation, transmission, and distribution infrastructure required to serve them; ● Developers disclose projected electricity and water demand and the sources of those resources; ● Major facilities undergo comprehensive environmental review addressing water, air quality, stormwater, wetlands, wildlife, emissions, backup power, noise, traffic, and cumulative impacts; ● Water use is independently monitored, publicly reported, and subject to enforceable protections for drinking water, groundwater, rivers, and wetlands; ● Noise limits are independently measured and enforceable; ● Nearby schools and residential neighborhoods are protected; ● Emergency-response planning is developed with local officials; ● Communities have meaningful participation and enforceable community-benefit agreements; and ● There is clear public accountability for which governmental entity has authority to enforce each requirement.",1,2026-09-16T09:43:13Z,2026-09-16T09:44:22Z https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases/committee-advances-walbergs-legislation-protect-great-lakes-fisheries,Committee Advances Walberg's Legislation to Protect Great Lakes Fisheries,2026-09-15,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,MI,Tim Walberg,W000798,walberg.house.gov,walberg,https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, the House Natural Resources Committee unanimously advanced the Responsible Cormorant Management and Control Act. Introduced by Congressman Tim Walberg (MI-05), the bill would ensure effective, science-based management of double-crested cormorant populations across the United States. The bill directs the Secretary of the Interior to develop regional management frameworks to guide the responsible take of double‑crested cormorants, working in coordination with the nation’s four Regional Flyway Councils. Double‑crested cormorants have long posed challenges for fisheries and wildlife populations when their numbers become overabundant. In the Great Lakes, cormorant populations have wreaked havoc on fish stocks, inflicting millions of dollars in damage to the Great Lakes fisheries and threatening $5.1 billion in economic impact for recreational fishing. The Responsible Cormorant Management and Control Act would establish a comprehensive, collaborative framework to ensure that population management is effective and sustainable, better protecting fisheries and other wildlife habitats. ""The Great Lakes fisheries are vital to Michigan’s economy and environment, offering recreational opportunities for families and supporting local jobs and tourism,"" said Rep. Walberg. ""However, overabundant cormorant populations have damaged Great Lakes fish stocks. To protect our fisheries, we need a flexible, science‑driven framework to manage cormorants responsibly. The Responsible Cormorant Management and Control Act will give our fisheries the tools they need to thrive and support Michigan’s economy for years to come.""",1,2026-09-16T09:43:13Z,2026-09-16T09:44:22Z https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/09/15/slotkin-statement-on-voting-no-on-clarity-act/,Slotkin Statement on Voting No on Clarity Act,2026-09-15,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) released the following statement regarding her no vote on proceeding on the Clarity Act, a large package regulating the crypto industry. “Today, I voted no on the Clarity Act, legislation meant to regulate cryptocurrency in America. “The ethics provisions in this bill are simply too thin. President Trump, his children, and his Cabinet are making billions of dollars in the crypto space, in part from bilking everyday Americans out of their hard-earned money. I cannot in good conscience vote for any legislation that codifies that behavior from public officials. Not for President Trump or Secretary Lutnick today, nor for any Democrat who may take advantage of it in the future.“ “On the national security front, there is more to be done to make sure we have the tools in place to stop money laundering and shut down funding avenues for terrorists and nations like North Korea and Iran. This was essential after 9/11 and remains essential to keep Americans safe. “And as of now, our agencies, including the CFTC, lack the necessary oversight and staffing to implement this legislation, and that should be addressed. “There are strong, bipartisan provisions in this bill that could serve as the foundation for a new attempt at providing the crypto industry with the guardrails it needs. I believe that the U.S. should lead the world in cryptocurrency innovation, but we need to get it right. I remain open-minded to that work ahead.” t ###",1,2026-09-16T09:43:13Z,2026-09-16T09:44:22Z https://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7316,"Dingell, DeSaulnier Introduce Bill to Expand Access to Augmentative and Alternative Communication",2026-09-14,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,MI,Debbie Dingell,D000624,debbiedingell.house.gov,debbiedingell,https://debbiedingell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Representatives Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06), co-chair of the Bipartisan Disabilities Caucus, and Mark DeSaulnier (D-CA-10) introduced the Augmentative and Alternative Communication Centers to Establish National Training (AACCENT) Act, to expand access to augmentative and alternative communication for Americans across the country. Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) includes any tool, technology, or service that supports people who use little or no verbal speech to communicate. AAC can enhance communication, foster language and literacy development and help millions of people access communication and participate in all aspects of life. “Augmentative and alternative communication services, devices, and technology are essential for millions of Americans to work, learn, and stay connected with their communities and the world around them,” said Congresswoman Debbie Dingell. “AAC tools can significantly improve individuals’ quality of life and open opportunities that otherwise would not be available to them. This bill is a significant step to increase education and expand access to these vital resources.” “Making assistive and augmentative technology more available will help the almost 5 million Americans with complex communication needs better connect with their communities, succeed in the classroom, participate in the workforce, and overall thrive,”said Congressman DeSaulnier. “Partnering with and advocating for the disability community has been one of the greatest sources of pride and joy throughout my career and I am proud to continue that work alongside Congresswoman Dingell by introducing this important legislation that will help millions of Americans live with greater independence and dignity.” The AACCENT Act will establish three national resource centers coordinated to improve access to AAC information, tools and support for AAC users and their families. They also aim to increase the capacity and leadership skills of people who use AAC, their families and professionals. More than 4 million people in the United States cannot reliably meet their daily communication needs using verbal speech. People who use and can benefit from AAC include those with intellectual or developmental disabilities (e.g., cerebral palsy, Down syndrome), acquired or degenerative conditions (e.g., Parkinson’s disease, stroke, Alzheimer’s) and those with temporary conditions that limit vocal speech (e.g., those who are intubated post-surgery). Advances in AAC have enhanced communication and improved outcomes for millions of Americans, yet not everyone has access to AAC. Lack of knowledge and resources creates barriers for people who can benefit from AAC. The AACCENT Act will help reduce these barriers by creating resource centers focused on AAC. The legislation is endorsed by the American Music Therapy Association, Disability Belongs, Autism Society of America, The Arc of the U.S., and ANCOR. ""Communication is fundamental to self-determination, belonging, and full participation in community life. The AACCENT Act recognizes that people with expressive communication disabilities deserve meaningful access to the tools, knowledge, and support needed to communicate authentically. Disability Belongs is proud to support this legislation and its commitment to disability-led solutions that expand opportunity across education, employment, health care, and community living,” said Ariel Simms, President and Chief Executive Officer of Disability Belongs. ""Communication is a fundamental part of being able to participate fully in our communities, yet too many people with Autism and other developmental disabilities face barriers to accessing the tools and support they need to be heard. The AACCENT Act recognizes that access to augmentative and alternative communication is not a luxury, it is essential to learning, working, building relationships, and participating fully in everyday life. We thank Representative Dingell for championing this important legislation and investing in the training, technical assistance, and resources needed to ensure every person has the opportunity to communicate and participate fully in society,” said Joseph P. Joyce, President and CEO, Autism Society of America. Bill text can be found HERE.",1,2026-09-15T09:50:21Z,2026-09-15T09:52:05Z https://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7318,"Dingell, Colleagues Seek Answers on USDA Cancellation of Cyclospora Research",2026-09-14,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,MI,Debbie Dingell,D000624,debbiedingell.house.gov,debbiedingell,https://debbiedingell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) and nine of her House Democratic colleagues are seeking answers from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) following the unauthorized reorganization of its staff and research projects. This reorganization has put two research projects on cyclospora—the bacterium that caused the largest foodborne illness outbreak in United States history, with most of the cases occurring in Michigan–on hold. In a letter to the USDA Secretary, the lawmakers are calling on the USDA to reinvest in this research. “Research projects like those focused on cyclospora play an important role in helping researchers, investigators, and public health officials understand the nature of an outbreak and build a strategy to prevent the next potential outbreak. Researchers who worked on the cancelled cyclospora projects have reported that they are unable to continue any research beyond preserving samples they received from previous outbreaks, and that they are having to turn down requests for assistance from other federal agencies investigating the outbreak,” said the lawmakers. In addition to Congresswoman Dingell, the letter was signed by U.S. Representatives Marc Veasey (D-TX-33), Andrea Salinas (D-OR-06), Haley Stevens (D-MI-11), Rashida Tlaib (D-MI-12), Jasmine Crockett (D-TX-30), Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL-08), Don Beyer (D-VA-08), Nanette Barragán (D-CA-44), and Yvette Clark (D-NY-09). A copy of the letter can be found HERE and text is below:This letter is regarding reports that two of three cyclospora-related research projects conducted by the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Agricultural Research Service (ARS) have been shelved on the heels of an unprecedented outbreak of cyclosporiasis — the gastrointestinal illness associated with the cyclospora parasite — across 48 states and Washington D.C. The third research project, though not halted, is moving from the Beltsville Agricultural Research Center (BARC) in Maryland to Iowa as part of USDA’s reorganization plan. Given that scientists working on this project are not expected to relocate, it is likely this research will not be conducted. While Americans are increasingly worried about the safety of our food supply and the ability of federal agencies to respond to outbreaks of foodborne illness like cyclosporiasis, it is especially concerning that USDA would rollback critical food safety research. This summer’s outbreak of cyclosporiasis is the largest recorded outbreak of foodborne illness in United States history, with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reporting over 18,000 confirmed cases, over 14,000 of which were in Michigan. There are nearly 12,000 additional non-laboratory confirmed cases, and potentially thousands more from people who did not seek medical care or testing. Research projects like those focused on cyclospora play an important role in helping researchers, investigators, and public health officials understand the nature of an outbreak and build a strategy to prevent the next potential outbreak. Researchers who worked on the cancelled cyclospora projects have reported that they are unable to continue any research beyond preserving samples they received from previous outbreaks, and that they are having to turn down requests for assistance from other federal agencies investigating the outbreak. This will likely have a similar effect on private institutions who wish to carry out cyclospora research, since they also rely on samples from ARS. Despite these reported disruptions, USDA has claimed that these labs will be uninterrupted, and that the ARS is “working with research leaders to ensure an orderly transition of programs.” USDA has directed the blame to Congress, who voted to defund the ARS projects as part of a 2026 Continuing Resolution, enacted on November 12, 2025 However, the Department began planning for a significant workforce reduction and agency restructuring as early as April 2025, according to a document submitted to the Office of Management and Budget and the Office of Personnel Management. Notably, the November 2025 Continuing Resolution included language prohibiting the use of USDA funds for the Department’s reorganization plan without congressional approval, which they appear to be circumventing by proceeding with their plan to reduce the workforce and relocate staff and subcomponent agencies. This includes a 43 percent staffing cut for the ARS, which oversees scientific research like the three cyclospora projects at issue. The Trump Administration has claimed that research facilities like BARC are too expensive, without regard for the potential cost of stopping this research altogether. According to CDC, there have been 922 cyclosporiasis hospitalizations. While we do not yet know the total cost to the health system of this outbreak, USDA’s Cost Estimates of Foodborne Illness data estimate that, in 2023, the cost of foodborne illness in the United States was $74.7 billion. These costs — compounded by drastic cuts to Medicaid, expired ACA tax credits, and dismantled public health programs — make it clear that we must invest in research to prevent foodborne illness outbreaks. As we continue to grapple with additional cases of foodborne illnesses in our food supply, the American people should be able to have confidence that the Trump Administration is working to investigate those cases and prevent future outbreaks. Therefore, we respectfully request that you respond to the questions below within two weeks of receipt of this letter. For what reason did the Department choose not to seek congressional authorization for their reorganization plan? Do you plan to seek such authorization at any point or do you plan to proceed in direct violation of the law? How many staff at ARS have been let go, left for another position or project, or retired? a. What specific research was impacted by these departures? How does USDA plan to ensure an “orderly transition of programs” throughout their reorganization process, despite their own acknowledgement that their relocation plans will result in significant staff attrition? In terms of staff who have been ordered to relocate, how many are expected to vacate their positions instead of relocating? What plans are in place to fill any vacancies that occur as a result of these staff departures? What is the USDA’s plan for the relocation of research materials that are a part of the ongoing cyclospora research project at BARC? Specifically: a. How does USDA plan to transport samples from BARC to the new location in Iowa? b. How will USDA account for the potential impact of environmental factors on the integrity of the research conducted in the new lab location? c. When can ARS researchers who are relocating to the new location expect their research equipment to reach them? Thank you for your prompt attention to this matter and for providing a detailed response to these questions. At a time when Americans are counting on the federal government to protect the safety of their food supply, it is critical that USDA maintain the scientific capacity necessary to investigate outbreaks, support public health officials, and prevent future illnesses. For what reason did the Department choose not to seek congressional authorization for their reorganization plan? Do you plan to seek such authorization at any point or do you plan to proceed in direct violation of the law? How many staff at ARS have been let go, left for another position or project, or retired? What specific research was impacted by these departures? How does USDA plan to ensure an “orderly transition of programs” throughout their reorganization process, despite their own acknowledgement that their relocation plans will result in significant staff attrition? In terms of staff who have been ordered to relocate, how many are expected to vacate their positions instead of relocating? What plans are in place to fill any vacancies that occur as a result of these staff departures? What is the USDA’s plan for the relocation of research materials that are a part of the ongoing cyclospora research project at BARC? Specifically: How does USDA plan to transport samples from BARC to the new location in Iowa? How will USDA account for the potential impact of environmental factors on the integrity of the research conducted in the new lab location? When can ARS researchers who are relocating to the new location expect their research equipment to reach them? For what reason did the Department choose not to seek congressional authorization for their reorganization plan? Do you plan to seek such authorization at any point or do you plan to proceed in direct violation of the law? How many staff at ARS have been let go, left for another position or project, or retired? What specific research was impacted by these departures? How does USDA plan to ensure an “orderly transition of programs” throughout their reorganization process, despite their own acknowledgement that their relocation plans will result in significant staff attrition? In terms of staff who have been ordered to relocate, how many are expected to vacate their positions instead of relocating? What plans are in place to fill any vacancies that occur as a result of these staff departures? What is the USDA’s plan for the relocation of research materials that are a part of the ongoing cyclospora research project at BARC? Specifically: How does USDA plan to transport samples from BARC to the new location in Iowa? How will USDA account for the potential impact of environmental factors on the integrity of the research conducted in the new lab location? When can ARS researchers who are relocating to the new location expect their research equipment to reach them? For what reason did the Department choose not to seek congressional authorization for their reorganization plan? Do you plan to seek such authorization at any point or do you plan to proceed in direct violation of the law? How many staff at ARS have been let go, left for another position or project, or retired? What specific research was impacted by these departures? How does USDA plan to ensure an “orderly transition of programs” throughout their reorganization process, despite their own acknowledgement that their relocation plans will result in significant staff attrition? In terms of staff who have been ordered to relocate, how many are expected to vacate their positions instead of relocating? What plans are in place to fill any vacancies that occur as a result of these staff departures? What is the USDA’s plan for the relocation of research materials that are a part of the ongoing cyclospora research project at BARC? Specifically: How does USDA plan to transport samples from BARC to the new location in Iowa? How will USDA account for the potential impact of environmental factors on the integrity of the research conducted in the new lab location? When can ARS researchers who are relocating to the new location expect their research equipment to reach them? For what reason did the Department choose not to seek congressional authorization for their reorganization plan? Do you plan to seek such authorization at any point or do you plan to proceed in direct violation of the law? In terms of staff who have been ordered to relocate, how many are expected to vacate their positions instead of relocating? What plans are in place to fill any vacancies that occur as a result of these staff departures? What is the USDA’s plan for the relocation of research materials that are a part of the ongoing cyclospora research project at BARC? Specifically: How does USDA plan to transport samples from BARC to the new location in Iowa? How will USDA account for the potential impact of environmental factors on the integrity of the research conducted in the new lab location? When can ARS researchers who are relocating to the new location expect their research equipment to reach them? For what reason did the Department choose not to seek congressional authorization for their reorganization plan? Do you plan to seek such authorization at any point or do you plan to proceed in direct violation of the law? For what reason did the Department choose not to seek congressional authorization for their reorganization plan? Do you plan to seek such authorization at any point or do you plan to proceed in direct violation of the law?",1,2026-09-15T09:50:21Z,2026-09-15T09:52:05Z https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-haley-stevens-introduces-bipartisan-resolution-honor-national-physician,Rep. Haley Stevens Introduces Bipartisan Resolution to Honor National Physician Suicide Awareness Day,2026-09-14,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,MI,Haley M. Stevens,S001215,stevens.house.gov,stevens,https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Michigan Congresswoman Haley Stevens, alongside Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), announced a bipartisan resolution to recognize September 17th as National Physician Suicide Awareness Day and recognize the intense pressure and trauma physicians face in the workplace. The resolution enhances national awareness of the mental health crisis facing American physicians and honors the memory of the physicians we have lost to suicide. It also urges the establishment of national awareness and educational activities. America’s physicians work under intense pressure and are regularly exposed to trauma on the job. Roughly 6 in 10 experience increased feelings of anger, tearfulness, or anxiety, while 55 percent have experienced debilitating levels of stress at one point. Seven in 10 physicians also report stigma surrounding mental health and seeking mental health care among physicians. More than half know a colleague or peer who has contemplated or attempted suicide. “Every day, physicians across Michigan and our country dedicate themselves to caring for us during some of the most difficult moments of our lives, but too often, the people we rely on to care for us are struggling without the support they need,” said Rep. Haley Stevens. “We have lost far too many physicians to suicide, and we cannot allow stigma or fear to prevent health care professionals from seeking help. National Physician Suicide Awareness Day is about honoring those we have lost, starting honest conversations about physician mental health, and making sure the people who care for us know that they do not have to struggle alone.” In addition to Stevens and Fitzpatrick, the resolution is cosponsored by Reps. Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ), and Nanette Barragán (D-CA). The resolution is endorsed by the Dr. Lorna Breen Foundation, Council of Residency Directors in Emergency Medicine (CORD), American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), American Medical Association (AMA), American Hospital Association (AHA), American Academy of Emergency Medicine (AAEM), Society of Hospital Medicine (SHM) and American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP). “For many physicians, caring for patients is more than a job, it's a calling. Yet, our healthcare system has failed to fully support those who care for us all. High administrative burdens, long hours, and stigma around seeking mental health care leave many physicians feeling burned out and isolated,” said Corey Feist, CEO & Co-Founder of the Dr. Lorna Breen Foundation. “The Dr. Lorna Breen Foundation is proud to support Reps. Stevens and Fitzpatrick's bipartisan resolution designating September 17 as National Physician Suicide Awareness Day. By shining a light on physician mental health, honoring those we have lost, and prioritizing physician suicide awareness and prevention, this resolution helps take us one step closer to a country where all health workers feel safe seeking the mental health care they need. The Foundation looks forward to working with Congress to better protect and support health worker mental health.” “National Physician Suicide Awareness Day was created by the Council of Residency Directors in Emergency Medicine (CORD) in 2018 to remember the physicians who have died by suicide and to shine a light on a hard truth: physicians die by suicide at more than twice the rate of the general population. Physicians devote their careers to caring for others, placing them at the heart of every community and at the bedside of patients and families suffering from illness. The factors leading to suicide are multifactorial and the demands of medicine carry additional emotional weight, including loss and responsibility for patients' lives. When compounded with personal and systemic pressures, a heavy burden is created, which is often borne in silence. In addition, physicians face additional suicide risk from their knowledge and access to deadly means. This resolution recognizes that suicidal ideation is not a burden physicians should carry alone, and implementation of suicide prevention interventions is a responsibility shared by their colleagues, institutions, and communities. Suicide is preventable. CORD proudly supports this resolution as a step toward a future in which physicians receive the same compassion and care they extend to their patients every day,” said Arlene Chung, MD, President-Elect of the Council of Residency Directors in Emergency Medicine. “Physicians face disproportionately high rates of burnout, depression, anxiety, and suicide risk, driven by individual, environmental, and systemic factors,” said Laurel Stine, J.D., M.A., Executive Vice President and Chief Policy and Advocacy Officer at the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP). “Designating September 17 as National Physician Suicide Awareness Day is an important opportunity to bring greater visibility to physician mental health and to advance meaningful solutions, including increasing research, reducing stigma, and expanding access to mental health care. AFSP applauds Representatives Stevens and Fitzpatrick for introducing this bipartisan resolution to recognize the critical need to support physicians’ well-being and encourage more open conversations about mental health.” “Physicians dedicate their lives to caring for others, yet too many are struggling to care for themselves. Workforce shortages, the frustration and lost productivity caused by relentless prior authorization demands, and the financial pressures of running a medical practice are taking a toll on physicians’ mental health. At the same time, stigma and fear that seeking mental health care could jeopardize a physician’s ability to practice can keep physicians from getting the help they need and contribute to far too many physician suicides. Recognizing and understanding the realities physicians face is an essential first step. We applaud Reps. Stevens and Fitzpatrick for their bipartisan effort to designate September 17 as National Physician Suicide Awareness Day. The AMA looks forward to working with Congress on meaningful policy solutions to this complex and urgent problem,” said Willie Underwood, MD, MSc, MPH, President of the American Medical Association. “The American Hospital Association thanks Representative Haley Stevens for introducing this resolution designating September 17 as National Physician Suicide Awareness Day. Physician suicide is a tragic issue that demands greater awareness, research, and action. By elevating this issue nationally, we can continue to reduce the stigma surrounding physician mental health. We are grateful for Representative Stevens’ leadership and commitment to supporting the well-being of the physicians and caregivers who care for patients every day,” said Lisa Kidder Hrobsky, Senior Vice President, Federal Relations at the American Hospital Association. “Physicians dedicate their lives to caring for others, often meeting patients and families on some of the most difficult days of their lives. But those who support so many must know that support is there for them, too. With research showing that roughly one in ten physicians report recent or current suicidal ideation, we cannot afford to treat physician mental health as an afterthought. Designating National Physician Suicide Awareness Day is an important step toward breaking down stigma and encouraging physicians to seek help without fear,” said Vicki Norton, MD, FAAEM, President of the American Academy of Emergency Medicine. “The Society of Hospital Medicine (SHM), representing the nation’s hospitalists, is pleased to support the resolution recognizing September 17 as National Physician Suicide Awareness Day. This important designation helps to raise awareness, reduce the stigma surrounding mental health challenges and seeking help, and promote a culture of well-being across our healthcare system. Every physician deserves the same compassion, support, and care they provide to their patients each day,” said Efrén C. Manjarrez, MD, SFHM, President of SHM’s Board of Directors. “Emergency physicians care for patients every day, but many of us struggle in silence with our own mental health. We see the toll this takes and we know too many who have lost their lives to suicide. ACEP deeply appreciates Rep. Stevens and Rep. Fitzpatrick for their bipartisan work to shine a light on the mental health struggles of our health care workforce. We must continue the critical progress we are making toward eliminating barriers and stigma to ensure emergency physicians and health care workers can seek the mental health care and support they need and deserve.” said L. Anthony Cirillo, MD, FACEP, president of American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP). Text of the resolution can be found here. ###",1,2026-09-15T09:50:21Z,2026-09-15T09:52:05Z https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-collins-klobuchar-murkowski-honor-9/11-first-responders-for-25th-anniversary-of-attacks,"Peters, Collins, Klobuchar, Murkowski Honor 9/11 First Responders for 25th Anniversary of Attacks",2026-09-14,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI), Susan Collins (R-ME), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Co-Chairs of the Congressional Fire Services Caucus, submitted a joint statement into the Congressional Record honoring the first responders who made the ultimate sacrifice on September 11, 2001, and those who aided in the rescue and recovery efforts in the days and months that followed. In their statement marking the 25th anniversary of the September 11th terrorist attacks, the senators paid tribute to the courage and sacrifice of America’s fire and emergency services personnel and reaffirmed their commitment to supporting first responders across the country. “Twenty-five years later, the impact of 9/11 is still felt by all Americans, especially those that risked their life during and after the attacks” said Michaela Campbell, Executive Director of the Congressional Fire Services Institute. “The Congressional Fire Services Institute thanks the Congressional Fire Services Caucus for its recognition of those that responded to 9/11, and the Caucus’s consistent work in support of the Nation’s fire and emergency services. CFSI looks forward to continuing its work with the Caucus into the future.” The senators’ joint statement reads: “M. President, I rise today on behalf of myself, my fellow Senate co-chairs – Senator Collins, Senator Klobuchar, Senator Murkowski – and the entire Congressional Fire Services Caucus to recognize the 25th anniversary of September 11, 2001. On that tragic morning, nearly 3,000 innocent lives – including 343 members of the fire and emergency services – were taken in acts of terrorism that shook our country to its core. As co-chairs of the Congressional Fire Services Caucus, we stand today, 25 years later, to remember every individual loss, every family forever changed by unimaginable tragedy, and every community that continues to carry the weight of that day. As we reflect on the events of September 11th, we pay special tribute to America's first responders. In a time of fear, confusion, and turmoil, members of the fire and emergency services rushed toward danger with unwavering resolve. They did not hesitate. They answered the call knowing the risks, guided by a profound commitment to protecting lives. On 9/11, hundreds of firefighters and EMS providers made the ultimate sacrifice while carrying out their duty. Their courage became a defining symbol of American heroism, reminding us that the measure of service is found not in words, but in selfless action. The courage displayed by these first responders inspired millions and reminded us that hope is strongest when we stand together. In those moments of profound uncertainty, neighbors helped neighbors, communities rallied together, and Americans from every walk of life stood united in compassion and resilience. We also honor the thousands of first responders who labored tirelessly in the days, weeks, and months that followed. Amid smoke, debris, and uncertainty, they searched for survivors, recovered the fallen, comforted grieving families, and helped a wounded nation begin the long process of healing. Many have since faced life-threatening illnesses and chronic health conditions resulting from their service. Their sacrifices did not end when the recovery efforts concluded, and our nation's obligation to care for them remains as enduring as their commitment to us. In the years since September 11th, that obligation has taken many forms. The Congressional Fire Services Caucus has worked to ensure that the needs of America's first responders remain a priority in Washington, DC – advocating for the resources, protections, benefits, and support they need to serve their communities and return home safely. The work of the Fire Services Caucus reflects a responsibility that extends far beyond any single anniversary: to understand the needs and challenges of our local fire and EMS personnel, to stand with those who stand ready to protect us, and to ensure that our nation does not forget the sacrifices made every day in service to others. Across our cities, towns, and rural communities, first responders answer emergency calls regardless of what awaits them at the scene. They respond to fires, medical emergencies, hazardous material incidents, natural disasters, and much more with the same dedication and sense of duty that defined those who responded on September 11th. The work of the fire and emergency services is indispensable to the safety and well-being of every American. To the younger generations who know September 11th only through history, we must preserve not only the memory of that day, but also the guiding example set by those who responded. The legacy of September 11th is one of courage over fear, service over self, and unity over division. Today, we honor the individuals whose lives were cut short, the families who continue to bear their loss, and the first responders whose bravery became a lasting testament to the best of America. May we never forget their sacrifice. May we continue to support those who wear the uniform of the fire and emergency services. And may we strive each day to keep building a nation worthy of the courage they displayed on one of our country's darkest days.” ###",1,2026-09-15T09:50:21Z,2026-09-15T09:52:05Z https://mcclain.house.gov/2026/9/house-passes-chairwoman-mcclain-s-common-cents-act-to-end-wasteful-penny-production,House Passes Chairwoman McClain's Common Cents Act to End Wasteful Penny Production,2026-09-14,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,MI,Lisa C. McClain,M001136,mcclain.house.gov,mcclain,https://mcclain.house.gov/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON— Today, the House passed H.R. 10167, the Common Cents Act, legislation led by House Republican Conference Chairwoman Lisa McClain (R-Mich.), to permanently end production of the penny for general circulation and modernize America’s coinage system. “Washington has a spending problem, and it shows up in places big and small,” Chairwoman McClain said. “If the federal government is spending nearly four cents to make a penny worth one cent, something is broken. House Republicans are proving that common sense still has a place in government by cutting waste and protecting taxpayer dollars.” The Common Cents Act ends production of pennies for general circulation while keeping existing pennies legal tender and allowing the U.S. Mint to continue producing collectible coins. It also establishes uniform guidance allowing cash transactions to be rounded to the nearest five cents when exact change is unavailable. Electronic payments and other non-cash transactions will continue to be charged to the exact cent. The legislation also directs the Federal Reserve to develop a national transition plan for the hundreds of billions of pennies already in circulation and requires Treasury to notify Congress before discontinuing any other circulating coin. It also authorizes a lower-cost nickel composition if testing shows it will reduce production costs without significantly disrupting coin-operated machines. ###",1,2026-09-16T09:43:13Z,2026-09-16T09:44:22Z https://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7315,ICYMI: Dingell Marks 25th Anniversary of September 11,2026-09-11,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,MI,Debbie Dingell,D000624,debbiedingell.house.gov,debbiedingell,https://debbiedingell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"As the United States marks 25 years since September 11, U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) penned an essay recounting her experience on that day and how Americans united the weeks that followed. ""We had been attacked, and we pulled together. For a brief time, the things that divided us seemed smaller than the things that united us. We talked to each other. We listened. We comforted strangers. We checked on neighbors. We reached across differences of faith, race and background. We spent time trying to understand one another rather than turning away,” Congresswoman Dingell wrote. “The Jewish community worked hard to support the Muslim community. Communities reached across lines of faith and ethnicity. People who might never have spoken to one another before stood together. Bridges were built.” Congresswoman Dingell continued: “Twenty-five years later, I look around our country and worry about how many of those bridges are gone or endangered. Antisemitism is real. Hatred and fear directed at Muslims are real. Racism is real. Political and religious hatred can turn quickly into threats, violence and tragedy. We should be worried ‒ not because America is weak, but because we know how quickly fear can divide us if we allow it to. America did not deserve 9/11. No country deserves terrorism, hatred or violence. And no American should be made to feel unsafe because of their faith, religion, race, ethnicity or heritage. As we mark the 25th anniversary of 9/11, we will remember the nearly 3,000 people who were killed, and the countless families whose lives were changed forever. We will remember the firefighters, police officers, first responders and ordinary citizens who showed extraordinary courage. But remembrance must be more than looking backward. We should also remember who we were in the days after.” Congresswoman Dingell’s op-ed can be found HERE and text is below: The day, Sept. 11, 2001, is seeded in my mind and soul forever. I was on one of the few planes still flying that morning. We landed at National Airport around 8 a.m., before the first tower was hit. Then U.S.-Rep. David Camp was sitting next to me. Before we left Detroit, I turned to him and said, ""I have the weirdest feeling. If you weren’t sitting next to me, I think I would get off this plane."" We had no idea what was about to happen. As we watched planes crash into the World Trade Center, the Pentagon was attacked, and reports came that another plane might be headed toward the Capitol. But none of us fully understood what we were witnessing. My husband, John, was in the Capitol. When people were being told to leave, he refused. He said, “No one is going to chase me out of the symbol of our democracy. I fought in World War II, and I’m staying here.” Friends working at the White House came to my General Motors Foundation office in downtown DC, terrified. Secret Service agents had told women in heels to take off their shoes and run. Everything we knew about safety and normal life seemed to disappear in a matter of hours. No one was able to fly home. A few days later, John and I drove back to Michigan with Ohio Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur. We were deeply worried about Dearborn, our hometown, and about the possibility of backlash and violence against our Muslim neighbors. President George W. Bush addressed the nation at a Joint Session of Congress on Sept. 20, but we stayed in Dearborn because we believed that in a moment of fear, we had a responsibility to stand with our community and fight hatred wherever we saw it. Bill Ford and John Dingell hosted a candlelight vigil at the Henry Ford Museum. Thousands came. There was fear, and there was faith. There was grief, but there was also an extraordinary sense that we were going to stand together. Then came the names. Friends who were lost. Sons and daughters of friends. One of John’s dearest friends. Firefighters and police officers who ran into burning buildings to save people and never came home. The grief was overwhelming. But something else happened in those days that I will never forget: America came together. It was one of the most horrific times in our nation’s history, and yet, in some ways, it was also one of the most special. We had been attacked, and we pulled together. For a brief time, the things that divided us seemed smaller than the things that united us. We talked to each other. We listened. We comforted strangers. We checked on neighbors. We reached across differences of faith, race and background. We spent time trying to understand one another rather than turning away. The Jewish community worked hard to support the Muslim community. Communities reached across lines of faith and ethnicity. People who might never have spoken to one another before stood together. Bridges were built. Twenty-five years later, I look around our country and worry about how many of those bridges are gone or endangered. Antisemitism is real. Hatred and fear directed at Muslims are real. Racism is real. Political and religious hatred can turn quickly into threats, violence and tragedy. We should be worried ‒ not because America is weak, but because we know how quickly fear can divide us if we allow it to. America did not deserve 9/11. No country deserves terrorism, hatred or violence. And no American should be made to feel unsafe because of their faith, religion, race, ethnicity or heritage. As we mark the 25th anniversary of 9/11, we will remember the nearly 3,000 people who were killed, and the countless families whose lives were changed forever. We will remember the firefighters, police officers, first responders and ordinary citizens who showed extraordinary courage. But remembrance must be more than looking backward. We should also remember who we were in the days after. We were frightened, but we did not have to be consumed by fear. We were grieving, but we reached out to one another. We were attacked, but we did not have to turn our anger against innocent people in our own communities. We found strength in coming together. That is the lesson I hope we carry into the next 25 years. We cannot change what happened on Sept. 11, 2001. We cannot bring back those we lost. But we can decide what their memory asks of us.",1,2026-09-12T09:02:30Z,2026-09-12T09:03:27Z https://huizenga.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404531,Huizenga Statement Commemorating the 25th Anniversary of 9/11,2026-09-11,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,MI,Bill Huizenga,H001058,huizenga.house.gov,huizenga,https://huizenga.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Twenty-five years ago, our nation was forever changed. On September 11th, nearly 3,000 people were spending time with their friends, families, and loved ones for what would be the last time. For those of us who saw these tragic events unfold on national tv, the memories remain vivid. We remember watching in disbelief as a second plane struck the World Trade Center. We remember the smoke rising from the Pentagon and learning that another plane had gone down near Shanksville, Pennsylvania. Across Southwest Michigan, friends. families, and communities, watched in disbelief. We prayed for our nation, our neighbors, and those directly impacted by his tragic day. A quarter-century later, an entire generation of Americans know September 11 only as history. We promised to never forget, and part of that promise is ensuring we teach younger Americans about the events that transpired. Our children and grandchildren should know about the passengers aboard Flight 93 who fought back. They should know about ordinary Americans who helped complete strangers in a time of crisis. Teaching the next generation also means understanding what happened afterward too. Across Southwest Michigan and the nation, Americans displayed the flag, gathered in churches, donated blood, and checked on their neighbors. At one of our darkest moments, Americans showed what courage, service, faith, and patriotism looked like. Today, parents, grandparents, teachers, and veterans across Southwest Michigan have an important responsibility. We cannot allow September 11th to merely become a chapter in a history book. We owe it to those who never came home, to the heroes who ran toward danger, and to friends and families who carry the memory of their lost loved ones forward. We must tell the next generation what happened that day, how our nation responded, and how every day Americans came together to meet the moment.",1,2026-09-12T09:02:30Z,2026-09-12T09:03:27Z https://moolenaar.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-moolenaar-introduces-patriot-week-resolution-0,Congressman Moolenaar Introduces Patriot Week Resolution,2026-09-11,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,MI,John R. Moolenaar,M001194,moolenaar.house.gov,moolenaar,https://moolenaar.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congressman John Moolenaar introduced legislation to designate September 11 through 17 as Patriot Week. The legislation intends to honor the victims of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, recognize the ratification of the United States Constitution, and encourage each generation to reflect on our history and freedoms. “As we remember the heroes and innocent victims killed on September 11 twenty-five years ago, we should also recall the profound unity Americans felt in the aftermath of the terrorist attacks. Patriot Week is a time to reflect on our founding values, and encourage a deeper exploration of our history with hope to restore this national unity. I am proud to introduce this resolution to recognize this week as Patriot Week; to encourage Americans to celebrate the freedoms we cherish and honor our Constitution,” said Congressman Moolenaar. “Twenty-five years ago, terrorists attacked our country believing they could break the American spirit. Instead, one of our darkest days brought out the very best of America,” said Congressman Zach Nunn. “First responders ran toward danger, passengers aboard Flight 93 rushed the cockpit rather than allow their plane to become another weapon, and a generation of Americans raised their hand to serve. This Patriot Week, we honor the values our Founding Fathers passed down to us, embodied by everyday Americans in the weeks and months that followed the 9/11 attacks: service before self, courage in the face of adversity, and an unwavering commitment to our nation.”",1,2026-09-12T09:02:30Z,2026-09-12T09:03:27Z https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-statement-on-the-25th-anniversary-of-the-9/11-terrorist-attacks,Peters Statement on the 25th Anniversary of the 9/11 Terrorist Attacks,2026-09-11,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI) – Ranking Member of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, a member of the Armed Services Committee, and a former Lieutenant Commander in the U.S. Navy Reserve — released the following statement observing the 25th anniversary of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001: “Twenty-five years ago, our nation experienced an unspeakable tragedy that took 2,977 innocent lives and forever changed our country. Today, we remember those who never came home, the families who have carried their loss, and the courageous first responders who ran toward danger to save others and helped us rebuild in the aftermath of that terrible day. We also honor the servicemembers and veterans who served in Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as their families, and never forget their tremendous sacrifices for our nation. “In the aftermath of that awful tragedy, Americans put their differences aside and came together with a shared resolve to rebuild and ensure that an attack like September 11th could never happen again. Democrats and Republicans worked together to strengthen the institutions charged with protecting our homeland from terrorism because we learned, at an unimaginable cost, what can happen when threats to our nation go undetected. Today, critical pieces of that counterterrorism infrastructure are being dismantled, experienced personnel are being fired, resources are being diverted from serious threats, and authorities meant to protect Americans are being used for political purposes. Twenty-five years after September 11th, we cannot lose sight of why these institutions were built or allow the mission of protecting the American people to be weakened or compromised.” “As we mark this solemn anniversary, we must honor those we lost not only through remembrance, but by carrying forward the spirit of service, unity, and common purpose that Americans demonstrated in the face of unimaginable tragedy. We must never forget what our nation lost that day, the sacrifices made in the years that followed, and our shared responsibility to keep our nation safe for generations to come.” Peters volunteered for the U.S. Navy Reserve at age 34, where he earned a Seabee Combat Warfare Specialist designation and rose to the rank of Lieutenant Commander. After the September 11th terrorist attacks, he volunteered again for drilling status and served overseas as part of his Reserve duty. He later earned a diploma from the College of Naval Command and Staff, U.S. Naval War College. ###",1,2026-09-15T09:50:21Z,2026-09-15T09:52:05Z https://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7314,Dingell Secures Over $258 Million in Healthcare Funding for the University of Michigan,2026-09-10,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,MI,Debbie Dingell,D000624,debbiedingell.house.gov,debbiedingell,https://debbiedingell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) announced she secured $258,717,781 in federal grant funding for the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor to support a wide range of research initiatives, including cancer research, aging research, allergy and infectious diseases research, and more. The funding comes from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and was made possible by Congresswoman Dingell’s advocacy. “These funds are a critical step in improving the health and well-being of communities in Michigan and across the country,” said Congresswoman Dingell. “These grants will bolster the University of Michigan’s leadership in research and innovation. I am proud to have secured this money and will always work to deliver our state federal resources that lead to better treatments and patient outcomes.” Some of the projects receiving funding include: $7,168,226 for Cancer Research $1,169,992 for Diabetes Digestive and Kidney Diseases Extramural Research $1,520,330 for Allergy and Infectious Diseases Research $562,696 for Aging Research $1,028,998 for Cardiovascular Diseases Research $629,003 for Oral Diseases and Disorders Research $381,950 for Nursing Research $376,460 for Human Genome Research $375,336 for Biomedical Research and Research Training $577,444 for Minority Health and Health Disparities Research $598,644 for Child Health and Human Development Extramural Research $3,831,85 for Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Projects of Regional and National Significance $1,347,673 for Extramural Research Programs in the Neurosciences and Neurological Disorders $43,947 for Lung Diseases Research $178,515 for Vision Research $249,938 for Opioid Programs $610,843 for Arthritis Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases Research $223,829 for Blood Diseases and Resources Research $505,710 for Alcohol Research Programs $500,000 for Sickle Cell Data Collection Program HHS is the largest grant-making agency in the United States. Most HHS grants are provided directly to states, territories, tribes, and educational and community organizations, then distributed to eligible individuals and organizations. For more information on HHS grants, click HERE.",1,2026-09-11T09:25:29Z,2026-09-11T09:27:08Z https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-haley-stevens-champions-bipartisan-data-science-and-literacy-act-prepare,Rep. Haley Stevens Champions Bipartisan Data Science and Literacy Act to Prepare Students for Data-Driven Economy,2026-09-10,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,MI,Haley M. Stevens,S001215,stevens.house.gov,stevens,https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Michigan Congresswoman Haley Stevens alongside Reps. Jim Baird (R-IN), Don Beyer (D-VA), and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) introduced the Bipartisan Data Science and Literacy Act, to expand access to data science education and make sure Michigan students have the skills needed to compete in an increasingly data-driven economy. Data science draws on statistics, computer science, and mathematics to analyze and derive insights from data. Yet many students graduate from high school without these foundational skills, even as nearly one in four jobs requires data science skills. “Data is powering the technologies and jobs that will define America’s economic future, and our students deserve the skills to lead that future,” said Rep. Haley Stevens. “Whether a student goes on to work on the factory floor, in a research lab, at a small business, or developing the next breakthrough technology, the ability to understand and use data will be increasingly important. This legislation is about making sure Michigan students are ready.” “Data science education can be the catalyst that launches American scientific leadership into the stratosphere. Introducing children to STEM early gives them a foundation to continually build upon, preparing them to tackle increasingly advanced concepts as they reach higher education and enter the workforce. This is how we compound our scientific knowledge and foster the next generation of American innovation. Start early, build upon that knowledge, and grow our nation’s understanding of STEM,” said Rep. Jim Baird. “Data is one of the most powerful tools shaping our society today. It helps businesses streamline supply chain operations, public health officials track and prevent disease, and Americans navigate nearly every aspect of modern life. Yet too many students lack access to the education they need to understand and use data effectively. Our bill would provide educators with the resources necessary to expand access to a quality data science education and prepare students for 21st century jobs,” said Rep. Don Beyer. “Every generation has a responsibility to prepare the next for the world they will inherit. As data becomes foundational across nearly every field, our classrooms must keep pace. This legislation builds on the work we have led here in PA-1 to strengthen career and technical education, expand pathways into high-demand fields, and better connect learning with opportunity. The bipartisan Data Science and Literacy Act will carry that mission forward—equipping more students with the skills to succeed, strengthening our workforce, and ensuring America continues to lead,” said Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick. The Data Science and Literacy Act establishes a grant program at the U.S. Department of Education to expand access to data science education nationwide. The program would support data science instruction from pre-K through community college, strengthen students’ data literacy, and provide professional development opportunities for educators. The legislation also improves federal data collection and establishes evaluation and reporting requirements to guide future investments. Specifically, the Data Science and Literacy Act authorizes educational grants for the following purposes: Curriculum Development: Developing, implementing, and expanding data science curricula and instructional materials. Student Support: Improving student outcomes in data science education, including targeted support for students historically underrepresented in the field. Professional Development: Providing evidence-based training and recruitment support for educators to effectively teach data science and related subjects. Partnerships: Supporting collaboration with community colleges, institutions of higher education, and other relevant organizations to strengthen data science education pathways. Text of the bill can be found here. The legislation is backed by Data Science 4 Everyone (DS4E), Alliance for Data Science & AI (ADSA), Alliance for Learning Innovation (ALI), American Mathematical Association of Two-Year Colleges (AMATYC), American Statistical Association (AmStat), Association of Mathematics Teacher Educators (AMTE), Computer Science Teachers Association (CSTA), Digital Promise, INFORMS, Inter-university Consortium for Political and Social Research (ICPSR), National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM), and National Science Teaching Association (NSTA). “The average school experience is becoming disconnected from the fast-changing world our students are graduating into,” said Zarek Drozda, Executive Director of Data Science 4 Everyone (DS4E). “The question ‘why am I learning this?’ needs to have a better answer. Engaging in data science activities allows students to connect their academic subjects to the real-world, and learn a toolkit for navigating (and questioning) AI at the same time.” “ADSA works with more than 100 institutions of higher education, from R1 universities, community colleges, HBCUs, and Hispanic-serving institutions. One thing we hear consistently is that they want to be better partners to the K-12 schools in their regions,” said Dr. Micaela Parker, Founder and Executive Director of Alliance for Data Science and AI (ADSA). “The Data Science and Literacy Act creates that opportunity by putting flexible resources into district, community college, and university partnerships to update curricula for the modern age. This bill reflects how students actually use data: across their whole education, not in a single elective. ADSA is proud to support it.” “Too often, promising education investments go unmeasured, leaving us guessing about what actually works. The Data Science and Literacy Act gets this right by building evaluation into the bill from the start by directing the Institute of Education Sciences (IES) to rigorously assess grant effectiveness and requiring grantees to continuously monitor their own progress. That commitment to evidence, not just access, is exactly what we want to see in federal education investments,” Sara Schapiro, Executive Director of Alliance for Learning Innovation (ALI). “At the Alliance for Learning Innovation (ALI), we believe every student deserves the tools to make sense of data and put it to work solving real problems. We're proud to endorse this bipartisan legislation and thank Representatives Stevens, Beyer, Kim, and Baird for their leadership in building a stronger STEM pipeline for the next generation."" “H.G. Wells once said ‘Statistical thinking will one day be as necessary for efficient citizenship as the ability to read and write.’ (c. 1903) That day is today. This bill is the right step forward,” said Eddie Tchertchian, President of the American Mathematical Association of Two-Year Colleges (AMATYC). “The presence of AI in our everyday lives and work has made statistical thinking more critical than ever, so I applaud Representative Stevens and her cosponsors for reintroducing this bill, "" said Jeri Mulrow, President of the American Statistical Association (AmStat). “Statistical thinking, a core component of data literacy, is essential for today's students to effectively use AI, critically assess its outputs, and succeed in today's job market.” “In continuing AMTE efforts to bring diverse mathematics teacher education communities together, our organization continues to support educators, coaches, consultants, specialists, and university and community college faculty to share and disseminate research, teaching, and community partnerships in different educational contexts,” said Farshid Safi, President of Association of Mathematics Teacher Educators (AMTE). “AMTE, intentionally and toward a more comprehensive and inclusive lens, adopts an expansive view of the term mathematics education to include intersections with fields such as data science and statistics education, mathematical modeling, STEM education while partnering with those engaged in early childhood, PK-12, and post-secondary contexts.” “Data shapes the technologies students use, the decisions they encounter, and the world they will help create. The 2026 CSTA PK–12 Computer Science Standards identify Data & Analysis as a core concept in foundational computer science education, calling on students to use data to solve problems, make discoveries, and express ideas while critically examining its quality, representation, privacy, and impact,” said Bryan Twarek, Head of Research and Innovation of the Computer Science Teachers Association (CSTA). “The Data Science and Literacy Act would invest in the curricula, professional development, and partnerships teachers need to prepare their students to become critical consumers, responsible creators, and informed participants in a world powered by computing.” “Data literacy is a foundational tool for real-world agency. Preparing students for a changing economy requires updating what and how we teach, moving away from narrow metrics of success to build practical skills across disciplines,” said Jean-Claude Brizard, Chief Executive Officer of Digital Promise. “The Data Science and Literacy Act delivers flexible resources that allow school systems and postsecondary partners to strengthen teacher capacity and create powerful learning experiences for every student. Digital Promise strongly supports this legislation as a crucial investment in long-term economic mobility.” “Ensuring that data literacy is a foundational aspect of education is a cornerstone of the United States’ long-term economic and national security. Data is everywhere and the ideas and demands to create more of it, and the evermore complex ways to deploy it, are growing more significant by the day,” said Jeff Cohen, Chief External Affairs Officer at INFORMS. “This bill is a key part of addressing the substantial shortfall of STEM-prepared students for the workforce of tomorrow. Operations research, analytics, and the science and technology of decision-making is predicated on the sound and ethical use of data. INFORMS strongly supports the bipartisan Data Science and Literacy Act of 2026 and looks forward to working to ensure its passage and effective implementation.” “Our students are graduating into a world where the ability to understand, interpret, and use data is no longer optional; it is essential. Science and STEM education provide powerful opportunities for students to develop these skills as they use data to ask questions and make sense of the world around them,” said Brianna Reilly Oliveira, Director of Professional Learning for the National Science Teaching Association. “NSTA strongly supports the Data Science and Literacy Act and its investment in educators and students. By equipping educators with the confidence, tools and strategies to integrate data literacy into science and STEM instruction, we can better prepare all students to thrive in a data-rich world.” ###",1,2026-09-11T09:25:29Z,2026-09-11T09:27:08Z https://thanedar.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-shri-thanedar-leads-bipartisan-resolution-designating-september-as-national-suicide-prevention-month,Congressman Shri Thanedar Leads Bipartisan Resolution Designating September as National Suicide Prevention Month,2026-09-10,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,MI,Shri Thanedar,T000488,thanedar.house.gov,thanedar,https://thanedar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC - Today, Congressman Shri Thanedar (D-MI-13), along with Congressmen Wesley Bell (D-MO-01) and Mike Lawler (R-NY-17), introduced a bipartisan resolution recognizing September as “National Suicide Prevention Month” and September 10, 2026, as “World Suicide Prevention Day”. This resolution will bring awareness to the mental health battles that many face silently every day and decrease the stigma behind seeking treatment for mental illness. “In 1996, I lost my first wife to her battle with mental illness,” said Congressman Shri Thanedar. The pain my young boys and I suffered was devastating and has stayed with me ever since. Her loss has inspired my work in Congress to ensure everyone has access to high-quality mental health care. By partnering in a bipartisan fashion with Representatives Bell and Lawler, we will bring awareness to this devastating issue and ensure that no more lives are lost to mental illness.” ""Suicide is an epidemic plaguing our youth that demands urgent attention, because behind every statistic is a family forever changed by a loss words can't capture,"" said Congressman Bell. ""In Missouri and across the nation, too many people are suffering in silence, believing they have nowhere to turn. National Suicide Prevention Month is about changing that. We must meet this crisis head-on by investing in mental health care, breaking down the stigma that keeps people from asking for help, and making clear that reaching out is a sign of strength, not weakness. Mental health is health, and no one should have to face their darkest moments alone. If you're struggling, help is always within reach — call or text 988."" “Suicide is a devastating public health crisis, but it is not inevitable. We have a responsibility to ensure that people who are struggling know they are not alone and have access to the mental health care and support they need. During National Suicide Prevention Month and on World Suicide Prevention Day, we must recommit ourselves to breaking the stigma around mental health, expanding access to care, and doing everything we can to prevent the loss of another life,” said Congressman Mike Lawler (NY-17). This resolution is supported by a broad range of mental health stakeholders, including the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, saying “Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States, with nearly 49,000 Americans dying by suicide in 2024 and an estimated 2.2 million suicide attempts,” said Laurel Stine, J.D., M.A., Executive Vice President and Chief Policy and Advocacy Officer at the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP). “AFSP commends Representatives Thanedar, Bell, and Lawler for introducing this bipartisan resolution recognizing September as National Suicide Prevention Month and September 10 as World Suicide Prevention Day. By raising awareness about suicide and the critical need to expand access to quality mental health, substance use, and suicide prevention services and care, we can help save lives and create a future where everyone has the support and resources they need to thrive.” Another supporter, the National Alliance on Mental Illness, said the following about Thanedar’s resolution: “Every life lost to suicide is a tragedy, and every effort to prevent suicide must begin with ensuring people have access to the mental health care and support they need,"" said Hannah Wesolowski, Chief Advocacy Officer at the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). “National Suicide Prevention Month and World Suicide Prevention Day are important opportunities to raise awareness, spread hope, and spark meaningful action. NAMI thanks Rep. Thanedar for recognizing suicide prevention as a national priority.” Congressman Shri Thanedar proudly represents Michigan's 13th Congressional District, which includes Detroit, Downriver, and the Grosse Pointes. As a champion for working families, Shri is committed to advancing economic opportunities, education, healthcare access, and entrepreneurship for underserved communities. Drawing from his journey from poverty to success, he works tirelessly to uplift Metro Detroit, ensuring every resident has the resources and support they need to thrive. ###",1,2026-09-11T09:25:29Z,2026-09-11T09:27:08Z https://huizenga.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=404530,"Huizenga Announces $1.6 Million in New Mental Health Funding for Kalamazoo, Ottawa, and Van Buren Counties",2026-09-10,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,MI,Bill Huizenga,H001058,huizenga.house.gov,huizenga,https://huizenga.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx,scraper,"Today, Congressman Bill Huizenga (R-MI) announced that Ottawa County, Van Buren County, and Western Michigan University will receive new grant funding through the Department of Health and Human Services to strengthen mental health services and support substance abuse recovery. These federal grant funds are a direct result of legislation supported by Congressman Huizenga. “Connecting children, parents, and families across Southwest Michigan with mental health resources creates positive outcomes, strengthens our community, and makes Southwest Michigan an even better place to call home,” said Congressman Bill Huizenga. “I am committed to ensuring that those facing mental health and substance use challenges—some of life’s hardest struggles—have access to the best possible care, support, and resources.” Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo is being awarded a $599,999 grant for their Family Trauma Assessment of Children and Caregivers work Ottawa County Community Mental Health in Holland is being awarded a $616,685 grant for mental health & substance abuse services.",1,2026-09-12T09:02:30Z,2026-09-12T09:03:27Z https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/ahead-of-25th-anniversary-of-9/11-peters-demands-trump-administration-preserve-records-on-the-dismantling-politicization-of-nations-counterterrorism-infrastructure,"Ahead of 25th Anniversary of 9/11, Peters Demands Trump Administration Preserve Records on the Dismantling, Politicization of Nation’s Counterterrorism Infrastructure",2026-09-10,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Ahead of the 25th anniversary of the September 11th terrorist attacks, U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI), Ranking Member of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee (HSGAC), sent letters to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Department of Justice (DOJ), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI), and the Department of State, demanding that they preserve all records related to the nation’s counterterrorism efforts. Peters also sent a separate letter to the White House raising serious concerns about the Administration’s counterterrorism priorities and calling for the release of a legally required assessment of domestic terrorism threats. The letters follow the release of Peters' report, Failure to Protect, which found that the Trump Administration has dismantled and politicized key aspects of America’s counterterrorism infrastructure, including by diverting resources, cutting personnel, and dismantling programs dedicated to keeping our nation safe from terrorist attacks. “In the aftermath of September 11th, Democrats and Republicans came together to build a counterterrorism system designed to prevent another catastrophic attack on our homeland,” Peters said. “Now, as we prepare to mark twenty-five years since those tragic attacks, the Trump Administration has been reversing decades of progress by dismantling that system and diverting resources away from the genuine threats facing Americans. We need to preserve the records of these decisions so Congress can hold this Administration accountable and ultimately rebuild a counterterrorism system driven by facts, not politics, and focused on keeping Americans safe.” Earlier this summer, Peters released a report detailing how the Administration has dismantled key elements of the nation’s post-9/11 security infrastructure, diverted personnel and resources away from preventing terrorist attacks, and increasingly wielded what remains against the Administration’s perceived political opponents. The report found these actions have left the country less prepared to prevent and respond to terrorism while domestic and foreign terrorist threats remain elevated. Peters’ report found that the Administration has cut 15,000 positions across DOJ and the FBI and removed 1,300 personnel from DHS components responsible for preventing, countering, and responding to terrorism. It has also allowed nearly $1 billion in public safety and homeland security grants to be delayed or canceled, reassigned law enforcement officers, intelligence analysts, and attorneys away from counterterrorism and other national security responsibilities, and weakened or dismantled programs responsible for terrorism prevention, critical infrastructure security, weapons of mass destruction preparedness, and intelligence sharing. In addition to demanding the Trump Administration abide by all records retention requirements related to its actions, Peters also urged the White House to release its annual strategic intelligence assessment on domestic terrorism, as required by a bipartisan law that Peters introduced in 2019, which requires the FBI and DHS to issue annual reports on domestic terrorism threats, related investigations and prosecutions, and how federal resources are being allocated. Since taking office, the Trump Administration has failed to provide Congress and the American people with the transparency required under the law. Throughout his time in office, Peters has been a leader in ensuring the federal government adequately addresses both foreign and domestic terrorist threats to Americans. In 2019, Peters helped convene HSGAC’s first domestic terrorism hearing focusing on white supremacist violence. He led the Senate’s bipartisan investigation on the January 6th attack on the U.S Capitol and released a joint bipartisan report on the security, planning, and response failures causing this violence, as well as two additional reports on domestic terrorism and the intelligence failures that preceded the January 6th attack. As HSGAC Chair, Peters convened a hearing with experts focused on the threat of white supremacist extremism, and convened a two-part hearing with experts representing faith-based, civil rights, and academic and policy research organizations on the continued rise of domestic terrorism. Click here to read Peters’ full report on the Trump Administration’s dismantling of U.S. counterterrorism infrastructure. Click to read Peters’ letters to the White House, DHS, DOJ, FBI, ODNI, and the State Department. ###",1,2026-09-15T09:50:21Z,2026-09-15T09:52:05Z https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-haley-stevens-demands-swift-refunds-businesses-hit-illegal-trump-tariffs,Rep. Haley Stevens Demands Swift Refunds for Businesses Hit by Illegal Trump Tariffs,2026-09-09,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,MI,Haley M. Stevens,S001215,stevens.house.gov,stevens,https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Michigan Congresswoman Haley Stevens alongside Rep. Steven Horsford (NV-4) led their colleagues in calling on U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Commissioner Rodney Scott to immediately address administrative backlogs preventing American businesses from receiving refunds for duties paid under the Trump Administration’s illegal use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA). Businesses have reported that delays in CBP’s Consolidated Administration and Processing of Entries (CAPE) system are preventing importers from meeting the agency’s 90-day deadline to request refunds — potentially costing small businesses money they are legally owed. “Sadly, businesses in our districts have reported significant logistical hurdles that they must clear to receive a refund,” the lawmakers wrote. “Under no circumstances should these companies bear the brunt of both the tariffs struck down by the Supreme Court and the denial of tariff refunds because of administrative mismanagement of the CAPE system.” “Michigan businesses should not have to pay the price once let alone twice, first through illegal tariffs, and again because government red tape prevents them from getting their money back,” said Rep. Haley Stevens. “Small businesses in Michigan operate on tight margins, and every dollar matters. CBP must fix these administrative roadblocks and make sure businesses receive every dollar they are owed.” The Supreme Court ruled in February 2026 that President Trump’s use of IEEPA to impose sweeping tariffs was unlawful. Rep. Stevens is urging CBP to take all necessary steps to ensure importers receive full refunds for duties paid under the invalidated tariff regime. Full letter here. ###",1,2026-09-10T09:25:58Z,2026-09-10T09:27:09Z https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/icymi-senator-peters-leads-10th-and-final-motorcycle-tour-across-michigan,ICYMI: Senator Peters Leads 10th and Final Motorcycle Tour Across Michigan,2026-09-09,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,MI,Gary C. Peters,P000595,www.peters.senate.gov,garypeters,https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) led his 10th and final official motorcycle tour across Michigan to meet with local leaders and constituents, highlight success stories in Michigan communities, and show his appreciation for the essential partnerships he’s made in every corner of the state. Peters’ “Thank You, Michigan” tour made stops in Bay City, Alpena, Marquette, Traverse City, Grand Rapids, and East Lansing. Peters was joined on the tour by veterans, union workers, and constituents. Peters is an avid and long-time motorcycle rider who founded the bipartisan Senate Motorcycle Caucus in 2017. ABC12 Flint: Senator Gary Peters highlights federal funding during motorcycle tour “U.S. Senator Gary Peters kicked off his annual motorcycle tour across Michigan at Bay City Fire Department Station #2, where he saw how federal funding he secured will help clean up toxic PFAS contamination on the property. “During his visit, Peters also highlighted an additional $1.3 million federal grant he secured, funded by his bipartisan Fire Grants and Safety Act. The grant enabled the Bay City, Midland and Saginaw fire departments to purchase new self-contained breathing apparatus, which allow firefighters to breathe safely during dangerous rescues. “‘Our firefighters put their lives on the line every day to protect our communities,’ Peters said. ‘We have a responsibility to make sure they have the tools and resources they need to stay safe on the job.’ “Peters continued, saying hazardous PFAS chemicals from firefighting foams have posed serious health risks to firefighters for years. “‘I was proud to secure nearly $1 million to help Bay City clean up this site and protect the brave firefighters who serve this community,’ Peters said.” The Alpena News: Peters visits NOAA in Alpena during farewell tour “U.S. Senator Gary Peters, D-Michigan, visited the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary (TBNMS) on Tuesday as part of his motorcycle farewell tour across Michigan. Peters started the tour in Bay City on Monday and will conclude the tour in East Lansing on Friday. “The five-day ‘Thank You, Michigan’ tour will make stops in Bay City, Alpena, Marquette, Traverse City, Grand Rapids, and East Lansing. Throughout the tour, Peters will be joined on the ride by veterans, union workers, motorcycle safety advocates, and constituents. “While at TBNMS, Peters reminisced with TBNMS employees regarding his diving experiences in the sanctuary. He also spoke about the importance of re-authorizing the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI), which allocates federal tax dollars to the restoration of the Great Lakes. “‘The authorization of it ends this year,’ he said while giving remarks at TBNMS. ‘I’m the primary sponsor of the bill to extend it for five more years. I'll be leaving in a few months. I've said this is my number one priority. We got to get this done before I leave.’ “According to the federal Great Lakes Restoration website, federal agencies have funded over 8,000 projects for over $4 billion. The GLRI was launched in 2010 as a nonregulatory program to accelerate efforts to protect and restore the Great Lakes. “‘My colleagues from around the country are now realizing how important the Great Lakes are for the country,’ he said. ‘The Great Lakes is not just a regional asset.’ “‘Folks now understand that the Great Lakes is a national resource,’ he added. ‘In a very thirsty world, having a body of freshwater here is incredibly important. I'm cautiously optimistic we're going to get that done.’ “Peters told The News that the bill is making ‘headway’ in Congress.” MyUPNews Marquette: Senator Peters tours new D.J. Jacobetti construction site “U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI) toured the new D.J. Jacobetti construction site on Wednesday morning as part of his final motorcycle tour across Michigan. “The 38-acre property along Venture Drive will include a facility that will house 108 private bedrooms and handicap-accessible bathrooms for veterans. Funding for the project costs about $57.6 million, which Peters secured through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) State Home Construction Grant Program. “‘This dream doesn’t become a reality without the support from our legislative officials from the state and federal level. Senator Peters being a champion for many years for the State Veteran Construction Grant Program and then having the backing here locally in Michigan,’ said Chris LaJoie, interim administrator of Michigan Veteran Homes D.J. Jacobetti. “Peters, who currently serves on the bipartisan Senate Appropriations Committee, said that he’s working to ensure that the grant program receives as much funding as possible to continue supporting veteran needs. “‘It’s absolutely essential that we take care of our veterans. To me, I think that’s a sacred obligation that every American has. The men and women who are willing to go into harm’s way to protect our freedoms and liberties really deserve and have earned the ability to be able to retire with dignity,’ he explained. ‘That’s what this is about, is making sure that there are housing (units) available for veterans so that they can go someplace, get the kind of care that they need, and live the life that they have earned.’” UpNorthLive Traverse City: FishPass project stays on track for 2027 as Sen. Peters tours Traverse City site “U.S. Senator Gary Peters hopped on his motorcycle for his last state tour, stopping Thursday to see a project he helped fund. “Peters got to see firsthand how the FishPass construction project was coming along. Peters recently secured $22.7 million in Great Lakes Restoration Initiative funding, which helped make FishPass possible. “It replaces the Union Street dam and will reconnect the Boardman/Ottaway River with Lake Michigan’s Grand Traverse Bay. “‘That we're seeing here in Traverse City with this FishPass and the ability to allow really native species of Great Lakes fish to get up into the tributaries while keeping out invasive species that are playing havoc with our ecosystem,’ said Peters. ‘To be able to put that in place is absolutely incredible. And to think that we’re likely to see what we see here in Traverse City will be the way the future works in projects all over the world.’” “FishPass workers said the FishPass construction is still on schedule, with 2027 the expected completion date.” WXMI Grand Rapids: Sen. Peters tours Humane Society of West Michigan, talks PAWS Act “As part of his annual motorcycle tour across the state, Michigan Sen. Gary Peters stopped at the Humane Society of West Michigan on Friday to discuss the Pet and Women's Safety (PAWS) Act. “‘A beloved pet is every bit a part of the family,’ Peters said. ‘To have a pet is a very special relationship.’ “The PAWS Act, written by Sen. Peters, provides funding to the shelters and programs that take in the pets of those fleeing from domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking or dating violence. “At the Humane Society of West Michigan, a program called PETS Network accepts pets affected by such situations. It's the type of program that can seek assistance from the PAWS Act and benefit from a senator's platform. “‘We're one of a few in Michigan who offer anything like this, and so bringing light to this is so important, and foster families are so important,’ Ashley Dahl, Director of Community Programs for the Humane Society of West Michigan, said. “Dahl says PETS Network has served around 200 pets over five years and comes at no cost to their owners. “‘We can only help when we have foster families. So, if there's anybody out there that's leaning towards trying it or wanting to help, we can help more people if they're willing,’ Dahl said. “In 2023, funding for the PAWS Act expired. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, though, Sen. Peters has been able to secure funding for the program on a yearly basis. He is now working to reauthorize the program at $3 million for the next four years. “Colleen Nestle says she ‘can't put into words’ the importance of the legislation. “Years ago, when she left an abusive relationship, she was forced to give up one of her pets. Through PETS Network, she now fosters the pets of those in similar situations. “‘I've been on the other side,’ Nestle said. ‘So, if I can help even just one person that has been in my shoes, that is so worth it to me.’ WWMT Kalamazoo: Sen. Gary Peters makes final stops on last 'Thank You, Michigan' tour “Outgoing U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI) made the final stops on his last-ever ‘Thank You, Michigan’ motorcycle tour that has crossed the state for the last decade. “One of those stops was at Grand Rapids Community College, where Peters toured the Automation Lab, an innovative learning space with up-to-date manufacturing and automation equipment and technology. “Peters secured nearly $1 million for the lab's construction to create workforce development and hands-on training. “The Democrat Senator had a chance to see the equipment up close and learn how it is helping create jobs in Michigan. “‘I don't think you can be a great country unless you actually make things,’ Peters said. ‘That's what we do in Michigan. We have a very proud tradition of making things. But the factory floor and manufacturing looks a whole lot different than your father or grandfather. And it's high tech, it's exciting work, and we would need more young folks interested in getting a manufacturing career.’” WLNS Lansing: Gary Peters stops at MSU’s rare isotopes lab on final Michigan motorcycle tour “U.S. Sen. Gary Peters of Bloomfield Township toured Michigan State University’s Facility for Rare Isotope Beams on Friday and highlighted the more than $2 billion federal investment he says he helped secure for the lab, a stop on the final motorcycle tour of his Senate career. “Peters, who is not seeking reelection in 2026, visited the facility with MSU President Kevin Guskiewicz, FRIB Laboratory Director Thomas Glasmacher and physics professor Artemis Spyrou as part of his 10th and last annual ride across the state. The four spoke at a news conference following the tour. “‘So, when you talk about why we invest in higher education, why do we invest in research universities, it’s those stories, those breakthroughs that make our lives better, and make our lives fuller, and can happen right here,’ Peters said. “FRIB, which opened in 2022, employs about 460 scientists, engineers and staff, and draws more than 1,800 researchers to East Lansing, according to Peters’ office. “The lab houses what Peters’ office describes as the most powerful heavy-ion linear accelerator, which produces rare isotopes — short-lived atomic nuclei not found on Earth.” ###",1,2026-09-10T09:25:58Z,2026-09-10T09:27:09Z https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/09/09/slotkin-joins-colleagues-to-urge-supreme-court-to-block-postal-service-rule-limiting-mail-in-voting/,Slotkin Joins Colleagues to Urge Supreme Court to Block Postal Service Rule Limiting Mail-In Voting,2026-09-09,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) joined a bicameral amicus brief challenging the legality of President Trump’s Executive Order and U.S. Postal Service rule seeking to exert control over mail-in ballots ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. This comes as nearly one-third of Americans have voted by mail in recent elections — a voting practice Trump himself used as recently as August 2026, when he voted in Florida’s Republican primary. “As current and former legislators, amici took an oath to uphold and defend the Constitution of the United States — including its guarantee of the separation of powers,”wrote the lawmakers.“[We] have a particular interest in defending the institutional role of the Legislative Branch under Article I of the Constitution and in vindicating the long-settled principle that the Constitution commits ultimate regulatory authority over federal elections to Congress. The Constitution does not contemplate the Executive Branch acting unilaterally to assert power over federal elections. Yet that is what the Order and Final Rule do.” In the court filing, the amici curiae argue that Trump’s Executive Order 4399 and USPS’s final rule violate the separation of powers and usurp congressional authorities outlined in Article I of the U.S. Constitution, which gives the States and Congress exclusive authority over election administration. In addition to Slotkin, the amicus brief was joined by the entire Senate Democratic Caucus. In July of 2026, Slotkin released a video in response to President Trump’s Truth Social video post of her in a hearing, defending the mail-in voting process as a safe way for Americans to cast their votes. She has also pressed various Trump Administration officials including, Postmaster General David P. Steiner, Secretary of Homeland Security Markwayne Mullin, and various others about any planned attempts to interfere with the upcoming midterm elections. Click here to read the full brief. ###",1,2026-09-10T09:25:58Z,2026-09-10T09:27:09Z https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/09/09/slotkin-peters-demand-postal-service-halt-implementation-of-unconstitutional-vote-by-mail-restrictions/,"Slotkin, Peters Demand Postal Service Halt Implementation of Unconstitutional Vote-by-Mail Restrictions",2026-09-09,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"WASHINGTON D.C. — U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) and Gary Peters (D-MI) joined Committee Democrats in demanding that the United States Postal Service (USPS) immediately halt implementation of President Trump’s unlawful vote-by-mail executive order and rescind its recently finalized rule on federal ballot mail. In a letter to Postmaster General David Steiner and the USPS Board of Governors, the senators warned that the Postal Service’s efforts to fundamentally change how absentee ballots are processed and delivered just weeks before the 2026 midterm elections risks disenfranchising millions of eligible voters and disrupting the smooth administration of the elections. Slotkin recently pressed Trump Administration nominees for USPS about this very topic. You can watch those hearings here and here. The lawmakers are also demanding the Postal Service provide overdue answers about what legal authority permits it to regulate federal election mail, its new ballot verification processes, and the operation of its Federal Ballot Mail Portal, as well as its efforts to comply with federal court orders. “Despite repeated warnings from Congress and court orders not to implement the President’s unlawful directives to regulate mail-in voting, the Postal Service continues to carry out these actions, which will undermine peoples’ faith in the upcoming elections,” the Senators wrote. “If the Postal Service does not immediately reverse its current course, it will inflict lasting harm to our democracy and permanently damage a storied American institution.” On August 21, USPS finalized a rule to implement President Trump’s vote-by-mail executive order that would require states to provide absentee voter rolls to the federal government and comply with new ballot standards, while giving USPS the authority to verify and refuse to deliver ballots that do not meet its requirements. The senators argue that neither the President nor USPS has the legal authority to regulate absentee voting and noted that despite previous commitments to Congress that it would abide by judicial injunctions, the Postal Service finalized the rule while subject to a federal court order prohibiting it from doing so. The Postal Service’s rule is also being challenged in several ongoing federal lawsuits, where the legality of the Administration’s vote-by-mail directives remains under review. Joining Slotkin and Peters in sending the letter were Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Andy Kim (D-NJ), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), and John Fetterman (D-PA). Read the letter HERE. ###",1,2026-09-10T09:25:58Z,2026-09-10T09:27:09Z https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/09/09/slotkin-signs-joint-statement-with-colleagues-on-the-high-cost-of-trumps-trade-war-with-canada/,Slotkin Signs Joint Statement with Colleagues on the High Cost of Trump’s Trade War with Canada,2026-09-09,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"WASHINGTON D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) released the following joint statement with Senators Chris Coons (D-DE), Patty Murray (D-WA), and Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), in response to President Trump’s continued imposition of new tariffs on Canada. This comes after President Trump’s recent decision to hike tariffs to 50% on 500 Canadian goods. “The states we represent rely on Canada as a key trading partner and our primary export market. We have deep ties with our neighbors to the north, and we share one of the world’s most enduring defense partnerships. We have built two powerful nations over many decades by working together, growing our economies together, and securing our homelands together. Our countries have achieved great things by working closely together, and we still can. “Instead of working with our neighbors, President Trump is doubling down on a pointless trade war with Canada. His tariffs will squeeze our states’ small businesses harder and drive costs up for working families. They will raise the cost of the lumber, plywood, and construction equipment we need to build new housing. They will hurt our workers and businesses who manufacture autos, aircraft, and machinery. They will drive up the prices consumers pay for everyday basics like milk, clothing, and paper products. “President Trump’s tariffs have already cost American families as much as $5,000 in some states, and his senseless trade war with Canada will only grow that number. While American families and businesses suffer from Trump’s trade wars, partners around the world, including Canada, are increasingly looking to diversify away from the United States and deepen trade ties with other countries including China. Congressional Republicans need to stand up to the president and do their part to give families and businesses on both sides of the border relief from this insanity.” ###",1,2026-09-10T09:25:58Z,2026-09-10T09:27:09Z https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/09/08/icymi-detroit-news-automakers-urge-congress-to-quickly-pass-law-banning-chinese-cars/,ICYMI: Detroit News “Automakers urge Congress to quickly pass law banning Chinese cars”,2026-09-08,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"Slotkin Supports Bill to End Trump’s Tariffs that Cost Michiganders More Than Any Other State WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) joined her Senate Democratic colleagues in... After Top General Says No Troops at Our Polls, Slotkin Seeks Same Assurances from DOJ, DHS/ICE, FBI and National Guard WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, MS NOW’s Morning Joe reported that Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), a member of the Senate... ICYMI: General Caine Responds to Slotkin, Assures No Plans to Send Troops to Polls in November, Hegseth Silent WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the Associated Press reported that General Dan Caine, Chairman of the... Slotkin Joins Gallego, Colleagues, In Pressing the Israeli Government to Halt Construction Progress for E1 Settlement Project WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) joined U.S. Senators Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH),... Slotkin, Schiff, 45 Senators Press Netanyahu to Protect U.S. Citizens, Stop Settler Violence in West Bank WASHINGTON D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), in an effort led by Senator Adam Schiff... Slotkin Statement on Watchdog Filing Complaint Against Jeanine Pirro After Failed Indictment Complaints filed accuse Pirro of abusing her prosecutorial powers to seek “meritless” indictments against President... Peters, Slotkin Press Armed Services Republicans for Oversight on Troops Serving Extended Deployments in Iran SASC Democrats hold Administration accountable for the conditions it has allowed to develop that have left troops... As President Trump Refuses to Rule it Out, Slotkin Presses Hegseth to Guarantee Military Won’t Interfere in Midterm Elections Slotkin has sought the same assurances from Pentagon leaders under both parties in 2020 and 2024 WASHINGTON D.C.... Slotkin, Peters, Bergman Press Department of Defense on PFAS Cleanup at Wurtsmith Air Force Base, Camp Grayling WASHINGTON D.C. — U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Gary Peters (D-MI), and U.S.... Peters, Slotkin Demand Answers from Hegseth on the Reportedly Poor Conditions on the USS Abraham Lincoln USS Lincoln’s deployment has now stretched over 250 days, with over 200 days without a port call WASHINGTON,...",1,2026-09-09T09:27:09Z,2026-09-09T09:29:04Z https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases/substack-haley-stevens-what-it-means-be-michigan-democrat,SUBSTACK: Haley Stevens On What It Means To Be A Michigan Democrat,2026-09-05,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,MI,Haley M. Stevens,S001215,stevens.house.gov,stevens,https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Ahead of Labor Day, Michigan Congresswoman Haley Stevens shared her reflections on what it means to be a Michigan Democrat. Link to readhere. ###",1,2026-09-09T09:27:09Z,2026-09-09T09:29:04Z https://thanedar.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-shri-thanedar-secures-1031000-for-cybersecurity-operations-center-at-university-of-detroit-mercy,"Congressman Shri Thanedar Secures $1,031,000 for Cybersecurity Operations Center at University of Detroit Mercy",2026-09-04,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,MI,Shri Thanedar,T000488,thanedar.house.gov,thanedar,https://thanedar.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, DC - This week, Congressman Shri Thanedar secured $1,031,000 in federal funding for the University of Detroit Mercy. Thanedar fought to pass this funding as part of the Commerce, Justice, Science; Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment Appropriations Act of 2026. This critical investment will help establish a Cybersecurity Operations Center at the University of Detroit Mercy, in the heart of Michigan’s 13th Congressional District. “Since coming to Congress, I have made it a key priority to bring federal dollars back to every corner of my district,” said Congressman Thanedar. “In Congress, I have brought Community Project Funding to all 20 towns in Michigan’s 13th District for the first time in over 50 years. As a member of the Homeland Security Committee, I know firsthand the importance of cybersecurity facilities like these to protect Americans from the increasingly sophisticated cyber threats they face from at home and abroad. I am grateful for the partnership of the University of Detroit Mercy in making this facility a reality.” “This state-of-the-art cybersecurity center will provide our students one-of-a-kind training in the cybersecurity field and position them well to compete for jobs in the cyber and national security spaces after graduation,” said Donald B. Taylor, president of University of Detroit Mercy. “We are grateful to Congressman Thanedar for his advocacy in securing this funding, which will create an innovative educational opportunity for our students.” Congressman Shri Thanedar proudly represents Michigan's 13th Congressional District, which includes Detroit, Downriver, and the Grosse Pointes. As a champion for working families, Shri is committed to advancing economic opportunities, education, healthcare access, and entrepreneurship for underserved communities. Drawing from his journey from poverty to success, he works tirelessly to uplift Metro Detroit, ensuring every resident has the resources and support they need to thrive. ###",1,2026-09-09T09:27:09Z,2026-09-09T09:29:04Z https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases/statement-haley-stevens-reflects-death-gloria-steinem,STATEMENT: Haley Stevens Reflects on Death of Gloria Steinem,2026-09-03,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,MI,Haley M. Stevens,S001215,stevens.house.gov,stevens,https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – In response to the death of Gloria Steinem, Michigan Congresswoman Haley Stevens issued the following statement: “Gloria Steinem showed generations of women what it means to speak up, stand strong, and lead with courage. She opened doors, challenged the status quo, and inspired so many of us to keep pushing forward. Her legacy will live on in every woman who steps up to lead.” ###",1,2026-09-04T09:19:37Z,2026-09-04T09:20:58Z https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/09/03/slotkin-supports-bill-to-end-trumps-tariffs-that-cost-michiganders-more-than-any-other-state/,Slotkin Supports Bill to End Trump’s Tariffs that Cost Michiganders More Than Any Other State,2026-09-03,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"After Top General Says No Troops at Our Polls, Slotkin Seeks Same Assurances from DOJ, DHS/ICE, FBI and National Guard WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, MS NOW’s Morning Joe reported that Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), a member of the Senate... ICYMI: General Caine Responds to Slotkin, Assures No Plans to Send Troops to Polls in November, Hegseth Silent WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the Associated Press reported that General Dan Caine, Chairman of the... Slotkin Joins Gallego, Colleagues, In Pressing the Israeli Government to Halt Construction Progress for E1 Settlement Project WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) joined U.S. Senators Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH),... Slotkin, Schiff, 45 Senators Press Netanyahu to Protect U.S. Citizens, Stop Settler Violence in West Bank WASHINGTON D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), in an effort led by Senator Adam Schiff... Slotkin Statement on Watchdog Filing Complaint Against Jeanine Pirro After Failed Indictment Complaints filed accuse Pirro of abusing her prosecutorial powers to seek “meritless” indictments against President... Peters, Slotkin Press Armed Services Republicans for Oversight on Troops Serving Extended Deployments in Iran SASC Democrats hold Administration accountable for the conditions it has allowed to develop that have left troops... As President Trump Refuses to Rule it Out, Slotkin Presses Hegseth to Guarantee Military Won’t Interfere in Midterm Elections Slotkin has sought the same assurances from Pentagon leaders under both parties in 2020 and 2024 WASHINGTON D.C.... Slotkin, Peters, Bergman Press Department of Defense on PFAS Cleanup at Wurtsmith Air Force Base, Camp Grayling WASHINGTON D.C. — U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Gary Peters (D-MI), and U.S.... Peters, Slotkin Demand Answers from Hegseth on the Reportedly Poor Conditions on the USS Abraham Lincoln USS Lincoln’s deployment has now stretched over 250 days, with over 200 days without a port call WASHINGTON,... Slotkin, Joins Colleagues in Demanding RFK Jr. Reverse Cancelations of Lifesaving Research Grants for Michiganders U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) joined Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), and 26 of their... Slotkin Joins Bipartisan Bill to Support Coast Guard Installations, Allow Cost-Saving Community Partnerships WASHINGTON D.C. — U.S. Senators Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), Chris Murphy (D-CT), and Lisa...",1,2026-09-04T09:19:37Z,2026-09-04T09:20:58Z https://moolenaar.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/moolenaar-goldman-obernoltes-locomotives-act-passed-committee,"Moolenaar, Goldman, Obernolte's LOCOMOTIVES Act Passed by Committee",2026-09-02,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,MI,John R. Moolenaar,M001194,moolenaar.house.gov,moolenaar,https://moolenaar.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congressmen John Moolenaar, Craig Goldman, (R-TX), and Jay Obernolte's (R-CA) legislation, the LOCOMOTIVES Act was passed by the House Committee on Energy and Commerce. The bill prevents the State of California from placing unsustainable regulations on trains crossing into the state by revising Section 209 of the Clean Air Act. Current law allows states like California to request waivers from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to adopt policies stricter than federal emission standards. ""California bureaucrats should not be able to supersede federal law and prevent vital parts of Michigan's economy from accessing global markets. Our LOCOMOTIVES Act is a common sense proposal to allow industries that rely on railway transportation like Michigan agriculture and our auto industry to continue to operate under one national standard. I am grateful for Chairman Guthrie's leadership and his committee's support for my legislation, and I will continue my work to ensure our supply chains remain strong,"" said Congressman Moolenaar. “A single state should not be allowed to impose unworkable mandates on our national rail system,” said Congressman Obernolte. “The LOCOMOTIVES Act protects jobs and investment in my district, including the Barstow International Gateway, while providing the consistent federal standards needed to keep goods moving across the country. I’m glad the Energy and Commerce Committee advanced this commonsense legislation.” ""I’m proud to have joined Rep. Moolenaar and Rep. Obernolte in leading the LOCOMOTIVES ACT, preventing California’s extreme green energy regulations from dictating how states like Texas handle their freight rail industry. Only Texas should set the rules for Texas—and I’ll keep fighting to make sure it stays that way,"" said Congressman Goldman. The legislation's passage through committee was applauded by Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman, Brett Guthrie. “A strong freight rail system is the backbone of America's supply chain and interstate commerce, and no individual state should be allowed to mandate rules for the entire country. California's push to impose emissions mandates on locomotives would drive up costs on nearly everything that families buy from groceries to building materials. The LOCOMOTIVES Act ensures clear standards are in place to keep prices low for communities across the country. Thank you to Congressmen Moolenaar, Goldman, and Obernolte for their work on this important issue,” said Chairman Guthrie. In 2023 the California Air Resources Board requested a waiver from the EPA to prohibit trains older than 23 years old from operating in the state, unless they are zero-emission, which would prevent two-thirds of currently operating trains from entering the state. Although California's waiver request was withdrawn, the state may resubmit a similar request at any time. The LOCOMOTIVES Act is endorsed by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the Michigan Farm Bureau, the Association of American Railroads, the American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association, the North American Millers Association, the Supply Chain Federation, and the National Grain and Feed Association.",1,2026-09-03T09:29:33Z,2026-09-03T09:31:32Z https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/2026/09/02/after-top-general-says-no-troops-at-our-polls-slotkin-seeks-same-assurances-from-doj-dhs-ice-fbi-and-national-guard/,"After Top General Says No Troops at Our Polls, Slotkin Seeks Same Assurances from DOJ, DHS/ICE, FBI and National Guard",2026-09-02,2026,2026-09,Democrat,Senate,MI,Elissa Slotkin,S001208,www.slotkin.senate.gov,slotkin,https://www.slotkin.senate.gov/newsroom/,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, MS NOW’s Morning Joe reported that Senator Elissa Slotkin (D-MI), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, sent letters to Attorney General Todd Blanche, Secretary of Homeland Security Markwayne Mullin, Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation Kash Patel, and Chief of the National Guard General Steven Nordhaus asking for a written response and commitment to keep federal forces and law enforcement agents out of the midterm elections. Slotkin sent these letters the day after Secretary Mullin refused to rule out that ICE could be sent to polling places to enforce “specific threats.” Watch the Morning Joe segment here “As we approach the November 2026 elections, I’d ask you to confirm a simple statement: [DOJ/DHS/FBI/National Guard] will not send armed federal agents to the polls or to unlawfully seize election materials of any kind,” wrote Slotkin. “The President has made it clear through speeches, statements, official guidance, and continued legal action that he is seeking to use all possible tools to interfere with the midterms, to include publicly lamenting that he did not send federal forces to the polls in 2020. So when and if the President orders the use of [DOJ/DHS/FBI/National Guard] in November, it will fall on you to make a fundamental choice on how to respond.” Read the letters below: Letter to Attorney General Blanche Letter to Secretary Mullin Letter to Director Patel Letter to General Nordhaus Background: Slotkin also sent letters to General of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Caine and Secretary of Defense Hegseth asking for a written response and commitment to keep the U.S. military out of the midterm elections. General Dan Caine, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, confirmed in writing that the U.S. military has no plans to deploy federal troops or federalized National Guard members to polling places during the November 2026 midterm elections, and no plans to seize ballots, voting machines, or other election-related materials. Secretary Hegseth has yet to respond. In previous letters sent in 2020 and 2024 by Slotkin, General Mark Milley, General CQ Brown, Secretary Lloyd Austin, and Secretary Mark Esper, were each able to provide a response and confirm they would follow the law and our constitution—which is clear about military interference in our elections. ###",1,2026-09-03T09:29:33Z,2026-09-03T09:31:32Z https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-scholten-introduces-two-health-care-bills-lower-prescription,Congresswoman Scholten Introduces Two Health Care Bills To Lower Prescription Drug Prices and Improve Access to Care,2026-09-02,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,MI,Hillary J. Scholten,S001221,scholten.house.gov,scholten,https://scholten.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Hillary Scholten (D-MI-03) introduced two bills to bring down health care costs for West Michigan families: the Fair Prescription Pricing Act of 2026, which caps what patients pay out of pocket for prescription drugs, and the Local Health Care Protection Act of 2026, which protects local hospitals from losing drug discount eligibility because of federal Medicaid cuts. “Too many Americans are forced to choose between filling a prescription or paying for other necessities,” said Congresswoman Scholten. “These bills are about lowering costs and protecting the patients, families, and local hospitals caught in the middle. No patient should have to skip a prescription because they cannot afford it, and no hospital should have to shoulder unsustainable costs. I’m fighting to make sure hardworking Americans can afford the health care they need and deserve.” Under current law, a patient's out-of-pocket cost for a prescription can sometimes exceed the actual average price of the drug itself, largely because of how pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) and insurers structure cost-sharing behind the scenes. The Fair Prescription Pricing Act would close that gap by barring group health plans and insurers from charging any deductible, coinsurance, or copayment for an in-network pharmacy drug above the drug's nationwide average price The Local Health Care Protection Act protects hospitals from losing access to the 340B drug discount program because Medicaid cuts have shrunk their patient rolls. The 340B program, subsidized by drug manufacturers, allows hospitals to buy outpatient drugs at a discount and reinvest those savings into charity care and community health benefits – free and reduced-cost care, health screenings, mental health and addiction treatment, and other services that keep vulnerable patients covered. Qualifying for the 340B program requires serving a certain volume of Medicaid patients, a threshold some hospitals are now falling below because of Republicans’ nearly $1 trillion in cuts to Medicaid. The bill locks in eligibility for any hospital that qualified for 340B as of July 3, 2025, through fiscal year 2030 – so local hospitals can keep their doors open and continue funding the charity care and health programs their patients rely on. This reflects Congresswoman Scholten’s ongoing effort to make life more affordable for American families. The Congresswoman is the co-chair and founder of the Lowering Cost Caucus, which brings together members of Congress to find real solutions to the affordability crisis squeezing communities across Michigan and the country. ###",1,2026-09-10T09:25:58Z,2026-09-10T09:27:09Z https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases/barrett-helps-introduce-bipartisan-bill-protect-patients-ai-insurance-denials,Barrett Helps Introduce Bipartisan Bill To Protect Patients From AI Insurance Denials,2026-09-01,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,MI,Tom Barrett,B001321,barrett.house.gov,barrett,https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. — Today, Congressmen Tom Barrett (MI-07), Greg Landsman (OH-01), Buddy Carter (GA-01), and Kim Schrier (WA-08) introduced the bipartisan Doctors Not AI Act to ensure that artificial intelligence cannot make or dictate health insurance coverage decisions involving medical judgment. The bill would require a qualified, licensed health care professional, exercising independent clinical judgment, to make any decision that a particular procedure, treatment, or prescription is not medically necessary. “Artificial intelligence should never replace the judgment of a doctor,” said Barrett. “When it comes to someone’s health and well-being, the outcome is too important to leave it up to an algorithm. This bill makes sure doctors — not AI — remain responsible for determining what care patients need while bringing greater transparency to the use of these technologies in health insurance.” “When a computer system is making decisions about health care, people will get hurt,” said Landsman. “We have to make sure health care professionals remain the decision makers. If not, folks will be left with massive bills, their health getting worse, or even life-threatening consequences.” The Doctors Not AI Act: Ensures AI is used only in a supporting role and requires independent clinical judgment for decisions about whether care is medically necessary; Requires insurers to include AI-generated outputs in the administrative record, disclose the use of AI systems in the claims review process, and make the documentation available to patients; and Promotes fair coverage for mental health treatment by preventing disproportionate algorithmic scrutiny of care for mental health and substance use disorders.",1,2026-09-02T09:19:58Z,2026-09-02T09:20:51Z https://tlaib.house.gov/posts/rep-tlaib-votes-against-funding-bill,Rep. Tlaib votes against funding bill ,2026-09-01,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,MI,Rashida Tlaib,T000481,tlaib.house.gov,tlaib,https://tlaib.house.gov/press,scraper,"WASHINGTON – U.S. Rep. Rashida Tlaib (MI-12) released the following statement after voting against the Continuing Resolution to fund the Trump administration’s war and inhumane deportation agenda: “I refuse to give another dime toward Trump’s reckless war and racist mass deportations. While this wannabe dictator claims there’s no money for healthcare, food assistance, or Social Security, he has no issue funding endless wars, genocide and DHS’s violent deportation machine. Our residents are burdened by skyrocketing gas prices and terrorized by ICE agents, but Congress keeps pushing more money to our already over-inflated defense and DHS budgets. Congress and this administration’s priorities are severely out of touch.” The Continuing Resolution includes $839.2 billion for the Department of Defense, $8.4 billion more than the DOD requested. The recently passed funding bill also gives another $11 billion to the U.S. Customs and Border Protection for marine vessels, drones, and vehicles for law enforcement.",1,2026-09-02T09:19:58Z,2026-09-02T09:20:51Z https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases/walberg-votes-condemn-horrors-socialism,Walberg Votes to Condemn the Horrors of Socialism,2026-09-01,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,MI,Tim Walberg,W000798,walberg.house.gov,walberg,https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congressman Tim Walberg (MI-05) voted in favor of H.Res.1490, a resolution he cosponsored to condemn socialism in all its forms and the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA). The resolution also condemns specific DSA policies, including allowing noncitizens to vote in American elections, and pledges to protect Americans’ right to vote. The resolution passed with 192 Democrats voting in opposition. ""Over the past few years, Michigan and the United States as a whole have seen a concerning rise in support for the destructive policies of socialism and leaders who seek to replace freedom with government control,"" said Rep. Walberg. ""From defunding the police to allowing noncitizens to vote in U.S. elections and seizing ownership of private corporations, the dangerous policies being pushed by the Democratic Socialists of America seek to undermine the very principles that have carried our nation through 250 years of freedom, ingenuity, and opportunity. America will not survive another 250 years by turning to extreme ideologies that have destroyed every society in history that they touched. We must reject these attempts and preserve the rights and freedoms of hardworking Michigan families."" You may view a video of Congressman Walberg speaking on the House floor in support of the resolution here.",1,2026-09-02T09:19:58Z,2026-09-02T09:20:51Z https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases/walberg-votes-keep-government-open-and-prevent-another-democrat-shutdown,Walberg Votes to Keep the Government Open and Prevent Another Democrat Shutdown,2026-09-01,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,MI,Tim Walberg,W000798,walberg.house.gov,walberg,https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, Congressman Tim Walberg (MI-05) voted in favor of, and the House passed, the Senate Amendment to H.R. 6500, the Continuing Appropriations Act of 2027. The legislation would continue federal funding through December 11, 2026, while Congress completes work on the full-year fiscal year 2027 appropriations bills. ""Senate Democrats have refused to advance a single fiscal year 2027 appropriations bill, abandoning regular order and jeopardizing the funding process,"" said Rep. Walberg. ""House Republicans will not allow the obstruction of Senate Democrats to trigger another government shutdown. This clean, short-term continuing resolution will keep the government open, providing stability for hardworking Michigan families while Congress continues to complete the appropriations process."" Background House Republicans have advanced all 12 bills for fiscal year 2027 funding out of the House Appropriations Committee, including 3 that have passed the House with bipartisan support. However, Senate Democrats have refused to advance a single appropriations bill ahead of the September 30 funding deadline.",1,2026-09-02T09:19:58Z,2026-09-02T09:20:51Z https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases/statement-haley-stevens-condemns-socialism,STATEMENT: Haley Stevens Condemns Socialism,2026-09-01,2026,2026-09,Democrat,House,MI,Haley M. Stevens,S001215,stevens.house.gov,stevens,https://stevens.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – In response to today’s vote on Condemning and Denouncing the Horrors of Socialism, Michigan Congresswoman Haley Stevens issued the following statement: “I am not a socialist, and I do not support socialism. I’m a Michigan Democrat who believes in capitalism, democracy, making sure billionaires pay their fair share of taxes, and standing with unions in the fight for workers’ rights. “This is a cynical, Republican-forced vote designed to present a false choice: that standing up for voting rights means embracing socialism. It doesn’t. “We can build things in Michigan, create good-paying union jobs, grow American manufacturing, and defend every citizen’s right to vote. “That’s the Michigan I believe in.” ###",1,2026-09-03T09:29:33Z,2026-09-03T09:31:32Z https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases/subcommittee-advances-walbergs-legislation-accelerate-broadband-deployment,Subcommittee Advances Walberg's Legislation to Accelerate Broadband Deployment,2026-09-01,2026,2026-09,Republican,House,MI,Tim Walberg,W000798,walberg.house.gov,walberg,https://walberg.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Today, the House Committee on Energy and Commerce's Subcommittee on Communications and Technology advanced the Proper Leadership to Align Networks (PLAN) for Broadband Act. The legislation, introduced by Congressmen Tim Walberg (R-MI) and Scott Peters (D-CA), would implement a national strategy to accelerate the deployment of critical broadband infrastructure across the country. ""As co-chair of the Congressional Rural Broadband Caucus, I understand how current gaps in broadband coverage affect opportunities for families, students, and small businesses,"" said Rep. Walberg. ""The lack of a national broadband strategy has led to duplicative and wasteful efforts that delay the deployment of high-speed broadband across the nation. The PLAN for Broadband Act would increase coordination among all relevant agencies to streamline permitting, identify barriers to deployment, and ensure we can improve connectivity for rural communities. I am glad to see the subcommittee advance this vital legislation so we can bridge the digital divide."" Background The PLAN for Broadband Act is based upon a Government Accountability Office report that found that federal broadband efforts are oftentimes fragmented and duplicative. While enough federal funding exists to bridge the digital divide, a national broadband strategy is needed to avoid duplicative efforts and ensure that funds are available to reach the truly unserved and underserved areas. The PLAN for Broadband Act would require the Administration to develop and implement a national strategy to close the digital divide.",1,2026-09-03T09:29:33Z,2026-09-03T09:31:32Z https://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7272,"Dingell, Colleagues Urge Trump to Recognize Importance of the U.S.-Canada Relationship",2026-08-31,2026,2026-08,Democrat,House,MI,Debbie Dingell,D000624,debbiedingell.house.gov,debbiedingell,https://debbiedingell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) and 87 of her House colleagues are urging President Trump to change his administration’s diplomatic approach with Canada and recognize the importance of the U.S.-Canada relationship. The effort follows further fraying in the two country’s relations amid President Trump’s escalating and chaotic use of trade barriers against Canada. In a letter to President Trump, the lawmakers specifically highlighted the risk to America’s economy should the president continue to use demeaning rhetoric and implement damaging policies against Canada. “Your Administration’s escalating and chaotic use of trade barriers against Canada is putting this relationship at serious risk. Recent tariffs, continued threats of additional trade restrictions, and increasingly adversarial rhetoric are creating uncertainty for businesses, workers, farmers, and consumers on both sides of the border. American exports to Canada declined in 2025, while Canadian exports to the United States also fell substantially following the implementation of U.S. tariffs. Additionally, Canadian businesses are increasingly looking to diversify their supply chains and markets, which should concern your Administration,” the lawmakers wrote. The lawmakers went on to describe the shared economic interests between the U.S. and Canada and the risks a worsening relationship would have on the American people. “Our economic relationship is too important to put at risk. Our manufacturers, farmers, producers, small businesses, and consumers depend upon Canada, as Canadian businesses and workers depend upon access to the United States. Materials, parts, and components routinely cross the border as part of shared North American supply chains. Disrupting these relationships increases costs for American businesses and consumers, undermines our competitiveness, and puts good-paying American jobs at risk. For example, the North American automotive industry relies on a highly integrated supply chain in which parts and materials can cross the U.S.-Canada border multiple times before a vehicle reaches a customer. Similar integration exists across energy, agriculture, steel, aluminum, critical minerals, and manufacturing,” the lawmakers continued. A copy of the letter can be found HERE and text is below: Dear Mr. President: This letter is to urge your Administration to change its diplomatic approach with our closest ally, Canada, and recognize the importance of the United States-Canada relationship. Canada is not an adversary. Canada is a close friend, neighbor, ally, and economic partner whose security and prosperity is deeply intertwined with the United States. As you know, our countries share the longest international border in the world, generations of family and cultural ties, and deeply integrated economies and supply chains. We have stood together through war and peace and decades of cooperation. Our relationship is one of the world’s most enduring partnerships, built by generations of Americans and Canadians who work together, raise families, conduct business, travel, and share communities and culture. Your Administration’s escalating and chaotic use of trade barriers against Canada is putting this relationship at serious risk. Recent tariffs, continued threats of additional trade restrictions, and increasingly adversarial rhetoric are creating uncertainty for businesses, workers, farmers, and consumers on both sides of the border. American exports to Canada declined in 2025, while Canadian exports to the United States also fell substantially following the implementation of U.S. tariffs Additionally, Canadian businesses are increasingly looking to diversify their supply chains and markets, which should concern your Administration. Our economic relationship is too important to put at risk. Our manufacturers, farmers, producers, small businesses, and consumers depend upon Canada, as Canadian businesses and workers depend upon access to the United States. Materials, parts, and components routinely cross the border as part of shared North American supply chains. Disrupting these relationships increases costs for American businesses and consumers, undermines our competitiveness, and puts good-paying American jobs at risk. For example, the North American automotive industry relies on a highly integrated supply chain in which parts and materials can cross the U.S.-Canada border multiple times before a vehicle reaches a customer. Similar integration exists across energy, agriculture, steel, aluminum, critical minerals, and manufacturing. To strengthen production and supply chains across North America, we must work with our American and Canadian partners. If our shared goal is to reduce dependence on China and other bad actors, treating Canada increasingly like an adversary is both counterproductive and dangerous. We should instead deepen economic cooperation with allies like Canada to increase domestic production and ensure critical goods and resources come from trusted partners. We support fair and reciprocal trade and addressing legitimate trade barriers that disadvantage American workers and businesses. However, disagreements between close allies should be resolved through good-faith negotiations and established trade mechanisms, not through erratic trade policy, threats, and public disputes. Canada has already taken steps toward retaliation, demonstrating the real risk that continued escalation will harm American workers, businesses, farmers, and consumers and weaken the broader North American economy. Our relationship with Canada also extends far beyond trade. We share vital defense and national security interests, energy resources, the Great Lakes, environmental responsibilities, agricultural markets, tourism, and millions of personal and economic ties across our border. We work together every day to protect North America, respond to emergencies, manage shared resources, and keep our communities safe. At a time of serious global economic and security challenges, we should be strengthening this partnership and the ties that make both countries safer, more prosperous, and more competitive. We urge your Administration to treat Canada as the close ally, friend, neighbor, and economic partner that it is, and to resolve our differences through diplomacy while preserving and strengthening the relationship generations of Americans and Canadians have built. Just as a strong and prosperous United States is in Canada’s interest, a strong and prosperous Canada is also in America’s interest. Thank you.",1,2026-09-01T09:48:49Z,2026-09-01T09:49:51Z https://debbiedingell.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7273,"Dingell, Colleagues Introduce Bill Prohibiting Any Administration from Renaming Great Lakes",2026-08-31,2026,2026-08,Democrat,House,MI,Debbie Dingell,D000624,debbiedingell.house.gov,debbiedingell,https://debbiedingell.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"U.S. Representatives Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06), Tim Kennedy (D-NY-26), and Joe Morelle (D-NY-25) introduced legislation to stop the Trump Administration from unilaterally renaming Lake Ontario and protect the official names of all five Great Lakes. The Hands Off Our Great Lakes Act was introduced in response to President Trump’s signing of an executive order seeking to change the name of Lake Ontario to Lake America. The Hands Off Our Great Lakes Act would: Prohibit the federal government from renaming Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, Lake Huron, Lake Erie, or Lake Ontario; Nullify Executive Order 14422, which renames Lake Ontario as “Lake America”; and Block federal funds from being used to implement, administer, or otherwise give effect to the order or any substantially similar action. “The Great Lakes are a shared treasure that generations of Americans and Canadians have worked together to protect. Canada is not our enemy. It is our neighbor, our ally, and one of Michigan’s most important economic partners. It is a friendship that no stroke of a pen should be able to erase,” said Congresswoman Dingell. “By preventing President Trump from trying to divide us with distracting public relations stunts, maybe then he will turn his attention to his reckless trade war that is raising costs and threatening American workers.” “Americans are struggling to afford groceries, housing, and everyday essentials, and yet this President chooses to pick petty fights with our closest ally,” said Congressman Tim Kennedy. “This unserious, unacceptable attempt to rename the historic, shared Lake Ontario adds insult to injury as Trump’s tariffs drive up costs, making an already difficult situation worse. Our families, workers, and businesses need an administration focused on lowering costs and strengthening our economy, not distractions. Renaming a lake won’t put food on the table, lower anyone’s bills, or create a single job. It is a pathetic attempt to distract from an affordability crisis that this President has failed to fix.” “Lake Ontario is Lake Ontario. President Trump can play games with a map all he wants, but I’m not going to stand by while he wastes the authority and resources of the federal government doing it,” said Congressman Joe Morelle. “This is ridiculous, it’s embarrassing, and it’s exactly the kind of unserious distraction Americans are tired of.” Congresswoman Dingell is a fierce advocate for the Great Lakes and believes their names are part of our shared history, culture, and identity, and that they should not be used as a political pawn in the Trump Administration’s escalation of an unnecessary trade war. As co-chair of the Great Lakes Task Force in the U.S. House, a member of the House Committee on Natural Resources, and a member of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, Congresswoman Dingell has been at the forefront of legislative efforts to protect and preserve the Great Lakes. In July 2026, Congresswoman Dingell, alongside the other three co-chairs of the bipartisan Congressional Great Lakes Task Force, urged the Trump Administration to lift the stop-work order and end the administrative review on the Brandon Road Lock and Dam complex. The critical project is designed to prevent invasive carp from reaching the Great Lakes and devastating the region’s $11 billion fishing and recreation industry, and work was abruptly halted on July 24, 2026, putting Great Lakes ecosystems and the regional economy at severe risk. Also in July 2026, the congresswoman requested the Trump Administration release delayed funding that supports critical efforts to stop the spread of invasive species across the Great Lakes. Congresswoman Dingell is also a champion of the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI), which is designed to protect and restore the Lakes, and she has consistently pushed for robust funding for it. Bill text can be found HERE.",1,2026-09-01T09:48:49Z,2026-09-01T09:49:51Z