url,title,date,year,month,party,chamber,state,member_name,bioguide_id,domain,scraper,source,date_source,text,has_text,collected_at,updated_at https://kustoff.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-kustoff-announces-mobile-office-hours-january,Congressman Kustoff Announces Mobile Office Hours for January,2024-12-27,2024,2024-12,Republican,House,TN,David Kustoff,K000392,kustoff.house.gov,kustoff,https://kustoff.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman David Kustoff (R-TN) announced mobile office hours for the month of January. Mobile office hours will be held on Tuesday, January 7, and Thursday, January 9. “Mobile office hours are a good way for constituents to connect with our office and let us know how we can continue to best represent Tennessee’s Eighth Congressional District in Washington,” said Congressman Kustoff. “If you need assistance with a federal agency such as the Small Business Administration, Social Security Administration, or the Department of Veterans Affairs, I encourage you to visit our mobile office sites across West Tennessee.” Tuesday, January 7 Lauderdale — 9:00am - 11:00am Lauderdale County Courthouse 100 Court Square Ripley, TN 38063 Tipton — 1:00pm - 3:00pm Covington City Hall 200 W. Washington Ave Covington, TN 38019 Henry — 9:00am - 11:00am Paris Henry County Chamber of Commerce 2508 E Wood St Paris, TN 38242 Henderson — 1:00pm - 3:00pm Henderson County Court House 17 Monroe Ave Lexington, TN 38351 Chester — 1:00pm - 3:00pm Henderson City Hall 121 Crook Ave Henderson, TN 38340 Crockett — 9:00am – 11:00am Crockett County Chamber 25 N Bells St. Alamo, TN 38001 Haywood — 1:00pm – 3:00pm Brownsville City Hall 15 E Main St. Brownsville, TN 38012 Thursday, January 9 Fayette — 9:00am - 11:00am Fayette County Chamber of Commerce 120 E Court Square Unit 101 Somerville, TN 38068 Hardeman — 1:00pm - 3:00pm Hardeman County Courthouse 100 N Main St Bolivar, TN 38008 Carroll — 9:00am - 11:00 am Town of Huntingdon City Hall 19810 E Main St Huntingdon, TN 38344 Gibson — 1:00pm - 3:00pm Milan City Hall 1061 S Main St Milan, TN 38358 McNairy — 9:00am - 11:00am McNairy County Court House 170 Court Ave Selmer, TN 38375 Hardin — 1:00pm - 3:00pm Tennessee River Museum 495 Main St Savannah, TN 38372 Lake — 9:00am - 11:00am Lake County Courthouse 116 S Court St Tiptonville, TN 38079 Obion — 1:00pm - 3:00pm Obion County Mayor’s Office 316 S Third St Union City, TN 38261 ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/human-trafficking/blackburn-cornyn-klobuchar-colleagues-bill-to-improve-investigations-of-online-child-exploitation-signed-into-law,"Blackburn, Cornyn, Klobuchar, Colleagues’ Bill to Improve Investigations of Online Child Exploitation Signed into Law",2024-12-24,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) released the following statements after their Project Safe Childhood Act, which would make improvements to the investigation and prosecution of online child exploitation, was signed into law as part of the National Defense Authorization Act: “It is our duty to protect the most innocent among us: our nation’s children,” said Senator Blackburn. “Kids need more protections in this rapidly increasing digital age, and the Project Safe Childhood Act will modernize how we investigate and prosecute online child predators by giving state and local law enforcement the federal support and training they need.” “No child should be exposed to vicious threats from online predators,” said Senator Cornyn. “This law will make key strategic improvements to give law enforcement officers and federal prosecutors the tools to go after online child predators and ensure more children are shielded from this horrific crime.” “We must do everything we can to protect our children from online exploitation and abuse,” said Senator Klobuchar. “By modernizing the Project Safe Childhood program, our bipartisan legislation will ensure that law enforcement has the tools and resources it needs to rescue victims and prosecute those who commit these terrible crimes.” “Too many young lives have been lost or destroyed by online sexual abuse,” said Senator Grassley. “By empowering local law enforcement and federal prosecutors to take down online predators, we can protect vulnerable kids and bring criminals to justice.” “The Project Safe Childhood Act takes a major step forward in the fight to protect children from the horrendous crime of online sexual exploitation,” said Sen. Blumenthal. “Safeguarding our nation’s children from such abhorrent abuse is urgent and imperative, and this critical legislation empowers law enforcement to combat these serious dangers and hold predators accountable. I’ve long championed efforts to better protect children in an increasingly online society, and I look forward to swift action from the President.” Background:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cohen-welcomes-release-matt-gaetz-ethics-report,Congressman Cohen Welcomes Release of Matt Gaetz Ethics Report,2024-12-23,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,TN,Steve Cohen,C001068,cohen.house.gov,cohen,https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"MEMPHIS, TN – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09) today applauded the release of the House Ethics Committee’s report detailing the findings of its investigation into former Congressman Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.). The report uncovered substantial evidence of misconduct, including violations of House rules, state and federal laws, and standards of conduct. Congressman Cohen has long advocated for the report's release to ensure transparency and accountability in government. Earlier this month, he introduced a privileged resolution to force the release of the Ethics Committee’s report on Matt Gaetz. “Transparency is a cornerstone of our democracy, and the release of this report is a victory for the American people,” said Congressman Cohen. “Congressman Casten of Illinois and I fought for the release of this report because the public had a right to know what was uncovered in this thorough and long-lasting investigation. I commend the members of the Ethics Committee who voted to release this report despite objections. Matt Gaetz called it a ‘witch hunt’—and he knew that was a lie. He claimed it was about drinking and partying, but today’s report proves it was far worse: it wasn’t just alcohol and marijuana, it was cocaine, ecstasy, and more disturbingly it was about paying women for sex, including a 17-year-old girl. It also revealed that he accepted gifts well beyond ethical limits, including paid transportation and lodging for a trip to the Bahamas where some of these illicit activities took place. Investigators found that he accepted impermissible gifts, special favors and privileges, and that he obstructed Congress during the investigation. This goes far beyond ‘partying’—it exposes a pattern of unethical, illegal, and deeply troubling behavior.” “Gaetz isn’t alone in trying to hide behind the ‘witch hunt’ excuse,” Congressman Cohen added. “George Santos tried the same tactic to deflect from his misconduct, and it didn’t work for him, either. Accountability matters, and today’s release is proof that these House Ethics Committee investigations are not only thorough but essential to protecting the integrity of Congress.” The report follows years of allegations against Gaetz and a comprehensive investigation conducted by the House Ethics Committee. Congressman Cohen, along with Congressman Sean Casten (IL-6), introduced privileged resolutions earlier this year to force the report's release. Their efforts underscored the importance of public access to the findings of taxpayer-funded investigations. Congressman Cohen has consistently argued that withholding such reports erodes public trust and allows bad actors to deflect and deceive. Click here to read more. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://kustoff.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-kustoff-introduces-grown-america-act-2024,Congressman Kustoff Introduces Grown in America Act of 2024,2024-12-23,2024,2024-12,Republican,House,TN,David Kustoff,K000392,kustoff.house.gov,kustoff,https://kustoff.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman David Kustoff (R-TN) recently introduced H.R. 10494, the Grown in America Act of 2024, in the House of Representatives with original cosponsors Reps. Jim Costa (D-CA), David Rouzer (R-NC), Mike Carey (R-OH), and Mark Alford (R-MO). This bipartisan legislation will create a federal tax credit to help businesses shift away from foreign markets and purchase more agricultural commodities here in the U.S. ""A strong and resilient agriculture and food sector is vital to America’s economy and national security,"" said Congressman Kustoff. ""It is imperative we support our famers here at home and ensure they are not losing out to foreign competitors. That is why I introduced the Grown in America Act of 2024. Incentivizing businesses to purchase from American farmers will help strengthen our supply chains, stimulate domestic investment and job creation, and reduce our over-reliance on foreign markets."" ""Our legislation is a win for American farmers, producers, dairymen, and women, especially those in the San Joaquin Valley, by lowering costs and boosting domestic manufacturing,” said Congressman Costa. “By offering tax credits for manufacturers who purchase U.S.-grown agricultural products, it strengthens supply chains and supports farmers who are price takers, not price makers. This vital step ensures American agriculture remains competitive, helping both farmers and manufacturers thrive in the global economy."" “American goods should be made with American products. The Grown in America Act supports our farmers and ranchers while helping America First companies continue to compete against cheaper imported products. Bolstering the use of American agriculture products builds a more resilient supply chain for our manufacturing base while providing new and expanded markets for our producers,"" said Congressman Rouzer. “Missouri’s farmers and ranchers are the backbone of our economy and our communities. The Grown in America Act prioritizes domestically grown and sourced agricultural products by incentivizing business to buy American. Through this we will strengthen markets for our agricultural producers and promote domestic investment to secure our U.S. food supply chain. I’m proud to support this legislation along with my other colleagues and look forward to getting it across the finish line,” said Congressman Alford. The Grown in America Act of 2024 was endorsed by the Tennessee Farm Bureau and the Ag Investment for America Coalition. “Tennessee Farm Bureau is proud to endorse the Grown in America Act of 2024,” said Tennessee Farm Bureau Federation President Eric Mayberry. “It is vital we establish tax policy which promotes domestic agriculture and the farm processing industry. Food security is national security, and Americans desire local food. This act will help secure these objectives.” “Our broad coalition of American manufacturers and growers supports the Grown in America Act, a bipartisan proposal to encourage U.S. manufacturers to source more agricultural products from U.S. farmers,” said a spokesperson for Ag Investment for America. “This new incentive for purchasing American-grown crops would benefit the U.S. economy, increase supply chain stability, and encourage domestic job growth. Now is the time to incentivize domestic investment and support American farmers and manufacturers.” Background: Current geopolitical tensions with China, along with supply chain disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, have highlighted the vulnerability of U.S. food supply chains and the agricultural sector’s exposure to foreign markets. Maintaining America’s status as the global economic powerhouse depends in part on our ability to protect critical domestic industries and fortify our supply chains. The Grown in America Act of 2024 will incentivize businesses to purchase agricultural commodities from U.S. farmers, instead of importing them from overseas. Specifically, this legislation creates a tax credit to qualifying businesses for purchasing agricultural commodities sourced from American growers: Qualifying businesses include those using agricultural inputs to create products intended for human consumption. Businesses must source a certain percentage of their agricultural products from domestic growers to be eligible for the credit. The eligibility threshold (the percentage of agriculture products a business must source domestically) begins at 50% in year one and increases by 5% annually over an eight-year period until it reaches 85%. The eligibility threshold(s) are based on a three-year rolling average to address potential, unavoidable market disruptions. The credit is calculated as 25 percent multiplied by the ratio of US to non-US agriculture purchases. Click here to read the full text of the bill. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/news/video-blackburn-hassan-introduce-improving-travel-for-families-act,"VIDEO: Blackburn, Hassan Introduce Improving Travel for Families Act",2024-12-23,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Ahead of Christmas travel, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released the following video announcing the introduction of her Improving Travel for Families Act with Senator Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.) to allow young children to accompany their parents through Global Entry. This will provide flexibility to help families traveling internationally with children. “One of the important things that we do is solve problems that Tennesseans let us know about, and that is something that we are working on with a new piece of legislation. We’ve heard from so many of our families that are stationed overseas that using the Global Entry program can really be very helpful. However, when they are traveling with young children – even newborns – those children are not allowed to go through that process, so I am filing the Improving Travel for Families Act. It will make it easier for parents with children that are under the age of 10 to have them go through global entry with them.” – Senator Blackburn Click here to download video of Senator Blackburn discussing the Improving Travel for Families Act. BACKGROUND: In fiscal year 2023, over 10 million individuals were members of Global Entry, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s program allowing pre-approved, low-risk travelers to go through expedited customs and passport control when arriving in the United States. These streamlined processes are incredibly important for the traveling public—especially as air travel returns to pre-pandemic levels—with the number of travelers arriving by air into the country increasing by 6.1% from August 2023 to August 2024. But Global Entry, specifically its redundant and bureaucratic processes, isn’t well-suited for family travel. While Transportation Security Administration PreCheck has adopted measures to allow children to join their parents in the fast lanes, the Global Entry Program has fallen behind and does not allow small children to travel in the Global Entry lanes if those children are not enrolled in the program—even if the child is an infant. IMPROVING TRAVEL FOR FAMILIES ACT: The Improving Travel for Families Act would: Allow children under the age of 11 who are not a member of Global Entry to go through the Global Entry lanes with their parent or legal guardian who is enrolled in the program; and",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cohen-announces-cancer-research-grant-st-jude-10,Congressman Cohen Announces Cancer Research Grant to St. Jude,2024-12-20,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,TN,Steve Cohen,C001068,cohen.house.gov,cohen,https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9) today announced that St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital will receive a grant of $738,024 from the National Cancer Institute to study chromatin binding domains and neuroblastomas. Congressman Cohen made the following statement: “I am pleased to see the National Cancer Institute making this kind of investment in our premiere children’s research hospital to advance our understanding of childhood cancers. The work undertaken because of this funding will improve and perhaps save lives.” # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases/chairman-fleischmann-statement-on-government-funding,Chairman Fleischmann Statement on Government Funding,2024-12-20,2024,2024-12,Republican,House,TN,"Charles J. ""Chuck"" Fleischmann",F000459,fleischmann.house.gov,fleischmann,https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"“Tennesseans and Americans deserve a government that functions properly and is open. Democracy and representative government can be messy at times, but when we debate and air our differences openly and honestly, the end result is always the best for the American People. Throughout this week, I have been involved in negotiations with my colleagues to keep our government open and provide essential aid for our farmers and Tennesseans affected by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. I am glad that we passed a reasonable, responsible bill that delivers for the American People. Now it's time for the Senate to follow the House's lead and pass our bill.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/crime/blackburn-ossoff-bill-to-prevent-sexual-abuse-of-prison-staff-passes-senate,"Blackburn, Ossoff Bill to Prevent Sexual Abuse of Prison Staff Passes Senate",2024-12-20,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, the Senate passed the Prison Staff Safety Enhancement Act introduced by U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.) to help address the increasingly pervasive sexual assault and harassment of Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) employees by inmates: “Last year, nearly half of surveyed Bureau of Prisons staff stated they had been sexually harassed or assaulted by an inmate. This statistic is appalling and unacceptable. No federal employee or law enforcement officer should have to fear for their safety when they show up to work, and I’m pleased to see the Prison Staff Safety Enhancement Act move one step closer to becoming law,” said Senator Blackburn. “I remain focused on oversight of the Federal prison system and ending sexual abuse in prisons and jails, including the abuse of prison staff. Senator Blackburn and I brought Republicans and Democrats together to pass this bipartisan bill to help end sexual abuse in Federal prisons,” said Senator Ossoff. BACKGROUND: According to a February 2023 report by the U.S. Department of Justice Office of the Inspector General (DOJ OIG), a staggering 40% of 7,000 surveyed BOP staff stated they had been sexually harassed or sexually assaulted by an inmate. The 2023 report found that the BOP has inadequate data on inmate-on-staff sexual harassment and assault and has not been able to fully ascertain the scope of this widespread problem. The report also made a number of significant recommendations for the BOP to implement to help the agency better understand and mitigate this nationwide problem. At United States Penitentiary Thomson (USP Thomson) in Illinois, the American Federation of Government Employees reported that there had been over 300 incidents of inmate-on-staff sexual harassment in 2022 alone. USP Thomson houses only 875 inmates. This report, combined with BOP staff testimonials on this troubling problem, strongly suggest that BOP’s reporting and corrective procedures for inmate-on-staff sexual assault and harassment are inadequate, creating an institutional culture that lacks accountability and endangers BOP employees. THE PRISON STAFF SAFETY ENHANCEMENT ACT: The Prison Staff Safety Enhancement Act would require: The BOP to fully implement the recommendations in the Inspector General’s 2023 report regarding mitigating inmate-on-staff sexual harassment and assault and fully ascertaining the scope of the problem; The DOJ OIG to conduct an analysis of punishments for sexual harassment and sexual assault in BOP facilities; and The U.S. Attorney General to promulgate a rule adopting national standards for prevention, reduction, and punishment of sexual assault and harassment of BOP staff by inmates. Senators Blackburn and Ossoff sent a letter to BOP Director Colette Peters requesting that BOP release information about inmate-on-staff sexual assault and harassment reporting procedures, correctional methods, and staff assistance programs. Council of Prison Locals 33 National President Brandy Moore White wrote a letter expressing support for this legislation. RELATED: Blackburn, Ossoff Introduce Bill to Prevent Sexual Abuse of Prison Staff Blackburn, Ossoff Launch Inquiry to Protect Federal Prison Staff from Sexual Assault and Harassment Click herefor bill text.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/jobs-and-economy/blackburn-bennet-tillis-coons-introduce-bill-to-strengthen-domestic-semiconductor-supply-chains,"Blackburn, Bennet, Tillis, Coons Introduce Bill to Strengthen Domestic Semiconductor Supply Chains",2024-12-20,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), and Chris Coons (D-Del.) introduced the Strengthening Essential Manufacturing and Industrial (SEMI) Investment Act to expand tax incentives for semiconductor facilities to include upstream materials suppliers. This would help protect U.S. defense supply chains by supporting domestic investment and reducing reliance on foreign adversaries like China. “Over the past few years, Communist China has dramatically ramped up its production of semiconductors, which power everything from cell phones to computers to trains,”said Senator Blackburn. “By expanding tax incentives for semiconductor facilities, the SEMI Investment Act would support investment right here at home and increase supply chain security.” “The CHIPS and Science Act revitalized advanced domestic manufacturing and restored funding for cutting-edge research and development. But without sustained investment across the semiconductor supply chain, we risk undermining these important efforts,” said Senator Bennet. “The Strengthening Essential Manufacturing and Industrial Investment Act (SEMI) Investment Act will secure our supply chains and ensure companies across the semiconductor ecosystem are able to invest in and expand U.S. production.” “Congress passed the CHIPS Act to support our entire domestic semiconductor supply chain,” said Senator Tillis. “It is crucial for our national security and economic resilience that we get this policy right and I am proud to cosponsor this legislation to ensure we reduce our reliance on our adversaries like China.” “Semiconductors drive everything from smartphones to medical devices to automobiles, and countries that excel at manufacturing them will be stronger and more secure in the decades ahead,” said Senator Coons. “Expanding the semiconductor manufacturing investment tax credit—established by President Biden’s CHIPS and Science Act—will strengthen our semiconductor supply chain and advance us toward that goal.” BACKGROUND: Fueled by massive government subsidies, China’s state-controlled companies now dominate nearly 85% of global processing capacity for rare earth minerals used in semiconductor manufacturing. Earlier this month, China imposed new export bans on rare earth materials like gallium, germanium, and antimony, which are key to semiconductor production. Under current law, tax incentives are only available for facilities that directly produce semiconductors or manufacturing equipment. However, much of the upstream materials and components used in these facilities are sourced from China, leaving our critical supply chains vulnerable and heavily reliant on foreign adversaries. SEMI INVESTMENT ACT: To safeguard national security and counter China’s growing dominance in the semiconductor sector, the SEMI Investment Act would foster the development of a robust U.S.-based supply chain by expanding the tax credit to include upstream materials suppliers. Expanding incentives to include upstream production would also bolster American innovation, create jobs, and ensure the resilience of this vital industry. Click here for bill text.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cohen-announces-grant-memphis-zoo,Congressman Cohen Announces Grant to Memphis Zoo,2024-12-19,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,TN,Steve Cohen,C001068,cohen.house.gov,cohen,https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9) today announced that the Memphis Zoo will receive a grant of $395,000 to transform food waste destined for landfills into sustainable fertilizer for local agriculture. The grant, awarded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), is part of a nationwide initiative involving 26 cooperative agreements aimed at supporting innovative waste management practices and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Congressman Cohen made the following statement: “The forward-thinking leadership at the Memphis Zoo, which also received federal funding for rooftop solar panels earlier this year, is to be commended for its continued commitment to sustainability. This USDA grant will support an innovative waste management program that turns food waste into a valuable resource for local farmers. The Zoo’s commitment to ‘going green’ serves as a model for our community and beyond.” # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/jobs-and-economy/blackburn-marshall-introduce-bill-to-reduce-tax-burden-on-social-security-benefits-for-seniors,"Blackburn, Marshall Introduce Bill to Reduce Tax Burden on Social Security Benefits for Seniors",2024-12-19,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Roger Marshall (R-Kan.) introduced the Reducing Excessive Taxation and Inefficiencies by Reforming Elder Exemptions to Support Fairness, Inflation Relief, and Simpler Taxes (RETIREES FIRST) Act to lower the tax burden on Social Security benefits for seniors. “Retirees across the country depend on Social Security, especially after enduring the record-high inflation of the last four years,” said Senator Blackburn. “This bill would cut taxes on seniors’ benefits, helping them keep more of their hard-earned money.” “President Trump promised to protect Social Security and deliver relief to senior citizens by cutting taxes on these benefits. This simple action will put more money in seniors' pockets, correct a fundamental flaw in our tax system, and support President Trump’s economic agenda and a promise made to the American people: No Tax on Social Security,” said Senator Marshall. BACKGROUND: Historically, Social Security benefits were entirely exempt from the federal income tax, reflecting the understanding that these benefits were funded by workers’ own earnings. In 1983, Congress passed legislation that taxed benefits for higher-income retirees to strengthen program solvency. However, the measure was only intended to impact a small portion of households. Current exemption thresholds—$25,000 for single filers and $32,000 for married filers—have not been adjusted for inflation since their creation, causing “bracket creep” that increasingly taxes middle-income retirees. Today, nearly 56% of retirees pay taxes on their Social Security benefits, compared to less than 10% in 1984, with this figure projected to rise further. Many retirees rely on Social Security as their primary source of income, but the added tax burden reduces their quality of life, especially as inflation erodes the value of their benefits. RETIREES FIRST ACT: This RETIREES FIRST Act would: Eliminate Taxes on Benefits for Most Retirees: Raise the provisional income threshold to $34,000 for single filers and $68,000 for married filers, exempting most middle-class retirees from paying taxes on their Social Security benefits. Keep Exemptions Aligned with Rising Costs: Ensure the new thresholds are updated annually to prevent bracket creep, preserving the value of exemptions and shielding retirees from inflation’s impact. Simplify Tax Rules and Eliminate the Marriage Penalty: Maintain a single 85% inclusion rate for benefits exceeding the new thresholds, simplifying the filing process and reducing confusion for seniors. Additionally, the bill would eliminate the substantial tax penalty currently imposed on married retirees who both receive benefits. Protect Long-Term Solvency by Cutting Bureaucratic Waste: Redirect funds from inefficient government spending in the non-defense, non-veterans, non-homeland security discretionary appropriations accounts to offset revenue reductions, safeguarding the Social Security and Medicare trust funds while prioritizing retirees. Click here for bill text.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/military/blackburn-secures-tennessee-priorities-in-2025-national-defense-bill,Blackburn Secures Tennessee Priorities in 2025 National Defense Bill,2024-12-19,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released the following statement after securing vital wins for Tennessee in the Fiscal Year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which passed the Senate yesterday and will soon be signed into law: “In the face of formidable threats from Communist China, Iran, and Russia, this year’s national defense bill will help safeguard U.S. national security and support our men and women in uniform,” said Senator Blackburn. “Tennessee is home to tens of thousands of active-duty servicemembers, and this legislation will enhance their defense capabilities, support the development of new technology, and strengthen cybersecurity efforts in the Volunteer State.” KEY TENNESSEE PRIORITIES: Support the Pathfinder Program, which is developing technological solutions for real-world Army challenges at Vanderbilt University and in partnership with the University of Tennessee, Knoxville Support the development of advanced materials for hypersonic vehicles, including at Arnold Air Force Base and the University of Tennessee Space Institute Support modernization efforts at production and support facilities, including at the Holston Army Ammunition Plant Continue to support the construction of the Uranium Processing Facility at the Y-12 National Security Complex Support Unmanned Arial Systems (UAS) test capabilities, unmanned underwater vehicle experiments, and other research projects, including through the partnership between the University of Memphis and the Naval Surface Warfare Center Carderock Division on President’s Island in Memphis, Tennessee Support advanced materials manufacturing research, including ongoing research between the University of Tennessee, Knoxville,Army Research Lab, andOak Ridge National Laboratory Support the Nonproliferation Stewardship Program (NSP), creating a workforce of nuclear subject matter experts through Oak Ridge National Laboratory (ORNL) and Y-12 National Security Complex Support the classified additive manufacturing partnership between the Air Force Research Laboratory and Oak Ridge National Laboratory for future Air Force assets, including at Arnold Air Force Base Support cybersecurity for autonomous vehicles research, including at Tennessee Tech University RELATED:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/news/blackburn-announces-tennessee-priorities-in-water-resources-bill,Blackburn Announces Tennessee Priorities in Water Resources Bill,2024-12-19,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released the following statement after securing important projects for Tennessee in the Thomas R. Carper Water Resources Development Act, which passed the Senate this week and will soon be signed into law: “Following the devastating impact of Hurricane Helene across East Tennessee, rebuilding our communities and reassessing flood risk is extremely important across the entire state,” said Senator Blackburn. “This year’s Water Resources Development Act will allow the dredging and maintenance of Pidgeon Harbor in Memphis, enabling the continued growth of the industrial area and supporting the city as the Logistics Hub of America. It will also improve our state’s flood risk management to help us better respond to future natural disasters and strengthen wastewater infrastructure to support the development of Blue Oval City.” KEY TENNESSEE PRIORITIES: Authorization of federal maintenance and dredging of Pidgeon Harbor navigation channel in Memphis Feasibility study for flood risk management in Nashville Feasibility study for water supply support, including evaluation of Nolichucky River capabilities in Greene County Expedited completion of the Kentucky Lock and Dam navigation project $35 million for wastewater infrastructure and water supply infrastructure in Tipton County $50 million for water and wastewater infrastructure in Tipton, Haywood, and Fayette Counties Mandated coordination with stakeholders to address the dredging needs of the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway in Mississippi and Alabama",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cohen-announces-hematology-grant-st-jude,Congressman Cohen Announces Hematology Grant to St. Jude,2024-12-18,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,TN,Steve Cohen,C001068,cohen.house.gov,cohen,https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9) today announced that St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital will receive a grant of $252,285 as an Institutional National Research Service Award from the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. The funding will support Basic and Translational Research Training in Pediatric Classical Hematology. Congressman Steve Cohen made the following statement: “I am always pleased to see one of our National Institutes of Health investing in research leading to better outcomes for children. St. Jude is a leader in this field and deserves this National Research Service Award recognizing its role in improving and saving young lives.” # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cohen-welcomes-reports-ethics-committee-vote-release-gaetz,Congressman Cohen Welcomes Reports of Ethics Committee Vote to Release Gaetz Investigation Report,2024-12-18,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,TN,Steve Cohen,C001068,cohen.house.gov,cohen,https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Congressman Steve Cohen, a senior member of the Judiciary Committee and a former member of the Ethics Committee, today welcomed press reports that the Ethics Committee has voted to release its report on its investigation of alleged misconduct by former Florida Congressman Matt Gaetz. Congressman Cohen introduced two privileged resolutions seeking public release of the report and preservation of related documents on November 20 and December 3. In a parliamentary procedure aimed at burying the Committee’s findings, the Congressman’s second resolution was referred to the Ethics Committee on December 5. The Ethics Committee operates in confidence, and it is unclear when the Committee reportedly agreed to release the report. Congressman Cohen made the following statement: “I am encouraged that some on the Ethics Committee understand that the credibility and dignity of the House itself is at stake. The Committee spent years reviewing accusations of Gaetz engaging in sexual misconduct, using illicit drugs, sharing inappropriate images or videos on the House floor, misusing state identification records, converting campaign funds to personal use, and accepting a ‘bribe, improper gratuity, or impermissible gifts.’ This is some of the most serious misconduct the Committee has ever addressed. “The public needs this report. Gaetz himself called this process a ‘witch hunt’ and impugned the integrity of the House and the Ethics Committee. I’m confident the Committee’s seriousness, professionalism, and integrity will come through when the public sees the final report. “I also believe this report will be instructive for Members of Congress and the public. This is an opportunity to explain what unethical and unlawful conduct looks like. “The light of day, the best disinfectant, will now show who President-elect Trump wanted to be his Attorney General, and the character of a man who is likely to play an important role in a second Trump Administration.” # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/women/senators-blackburn-and-gillibrand-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-remove-the-tax-penalty-on-settlements-awards-and-judgments-paid-to-survivors-of-sexual-assault-and-sexual-harassment,"Senators Blackburn And Gillibrand Introduce Bipartisan Legislation To Remove The Tax Penalty On Settlements, Awards, And Judgments Paid To Survivors Of Sexual Assault And Sexual Harassment",2024-12-18,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.) introduced the Tax Fairness for Survivors Act, a bipartisan and bicameral bill that would remove the federal tax penalty on settlements, awards, and judgments paid to survivors of sexual harassment and sexual assault. Current law exempts payments for damages due to physical and emotional injuries from physical injury cases from taxation. However, payments from sexual harassment and sexual assault lawsuits are taxed as income unless the survivor can prove that they received physical injuries, such as broken bones or bruises, during the incident. This can cause uncertainty in some cases regarding whether settlements from sexual assault or sexual harassment cases are taxed or not, causing additional anxiety for survivors. “Survivors of sexual assault and sexual harassment should not be forced to pay taxes on compensation they receive as a result of the crime,” said Senator Blackburn. “The Tax Fairness for Survivors Act would ensure these courageous survivors do not have to bear the cost of unjust financial penalties.” “It is unacceptable to force survivors of sexual assault and harassment to pay taxes on the compensation they rightfully deserve,” said Senator Gillibrand. “The Tax Fairness for Survivors Act is commonsense legislation that will eliminate this tax burden, allowing survivors to focus on healing in the wake of their trauma. I am proud to introduce this legislation, and I will continue fighting to ensure that survivors of sexual assault and harassment are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.” Blackburn and Gillibrand’s introduction of the Tax Fairness for Survivors Act follows the introduction of the same legislation in the House of Representatives by Reps. Lois Frankel (D-Fla.) and Claudia Tenney (R-N.Y.) in August. The bill is endorsed by the National Alliance to End Sexual Violence and Lift Our Voices. “Survivors of sexual harassment and assault deserve fair treatment under the law,” said Representative Frankel. “It is unacceptable for a woman who has been raped, who endures immense pain and trauma, or who had to quit her job to escape harassment, to face further tax burdens on the compensation she rightfully deserves. This bill ensures survivors receive equal treatment regarding their payments.” “Survivors of assault have already endured the unimaginable; they should not face tax penalties on monetary settlements obtained in their pursuit of justice. This commonsense bill closes an unfair loophole in our tax code by exempting settlements and judgments from sexual harassment or assault claims from income taxes, aligning the tax treatment of these settlements with physical injury settlements and ensuring survivors are not further penalized,” said Congresswoman Tenney.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/news/blackburn-ossoff-introduce-bill-to-help-rescue-more-children-from-violence-by-recording-child-protective-services-interviews/6583f60b-5203-4a53-8e5e-6edfd577b4f2,"Blackburn, Ossoff Introduce Bill to Help Rescue More Children from Violence by Recording Child Protective Services Interviews",2024-12-18,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn) and Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.) introduced the Generate Recordings of All Child protective Interviews Everywhere (GRACIE) Act, which would incentivize states to require the recording of all Child Protective Services (CPS) interviews with children and adults. Modernizing CPS interview protocols would increase the likelihood that child trafficking victims will be identified and removed from dangerous situations, including sex and labor trafficking, domestic violence, physical and emotional abuse, and other forms of violence. “Children are often silenced by their abusers, and we need to do everything in our power to ensure that does not happen,” said Senator Blackburn. “The GRACIE Act would help give more children a voice, increase domestic violence reporting, and strengthen the foster care system.” “We can never do enough to support vulnerable children in Georgia and across the country,” said Senator Ossoff. “Senator Blackburn and I are introducing this new bipartisan bill to strengthen transparency in State child protective agencies and help States better fund their operations.” BACKGROUND: In the U.S., 37.4% of children will be interviewed by CPS at some point in their childhood. These initial interviews can be traumatic, so we must do everything we can to ensure transparency and accountability during the process. CPS is the gateway to the foster care system, and approximately 60% of U.S. domestic child sex trafficking victims have engaged with the foster care system. Many of them undergo multiple interviews without one CPS staffer identifying them as child trafficking victims or removing them from real-time trafficking violence. CPS has a history of distorting the testimony of children who are trying to speak out about abuse and trafficking. As a result, children can remain in abusive and dangerous situations. CPS interview protocols are broken, and mandating all CPS interviews be recorded would be a good first step toward fixing this broken system. The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has required recordings of all interrogations for nearly a decade, and state law enforcement departments often require police body cameras. Similar accountability measures are long overdue in the child protection space. It is imperative that federal and state legislation require at least audio recording–if not video recording, too–of all CPS interviews. THE GRACIE ACT: The GRACIE Act would create a grant program within the DOJ to award grants to states that require the recording of all CPS interviews with children and adults. This legislation includes provisions to protect the privacy and security of those recordings, so they are not shared with anyone outside of a law enforcement investigation. They would also only be retained for the amount of time needed to deal with the case. ENDORSEMENTS: This legislation is endorsed by Street Grace, No Trafficking Zones, Pearl at the Mailbox, The Foundation United, Rights for Girls, and 3Strands Global.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cohen-applauds-sweeping-protections-airline-passengers,Congressman Cohen Applauds Sweeping Protections for Airline Passengers with Disabilities,2024-12-17,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,TN,Steve Cohen,C001068,cohen.house.gov,cohen,https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Congressman Steve Cohen, the Ranking Member of the Aviation Subcommittee, today attended Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg’s announcement of a final rule that is the biggest expansion of rights for passengers with disabilities in a generation. The new rule, which incorporates many elements of Congressman Cohen’s Mobility Aids on Board Improve Lives and Empower All (MOBILE) Act, requires airlines to meet rigorous standards for accommodating passengers with disabilities, particularly those who use wheelchairs. An estimated 5.5 million Americans use a wheelchair, and many encounter barriers when it comes to air travel. U.S. Department of Transportation data shows 11,527 wheelchairs and scooters were mishandled by carriers required to report that data. When an individual’s wheelchair is delayed or damaged by an airline, their mobility, health, and freedom can be severely impacted until the wheelchair is returned, repaired or replaced. For many people with disabilities, the pain of a broken or lost wheelchair or other mobility aid is like the pain of an injury or loss of an able-bodied person’s legs. Congressman Cohen made the following statement: “The comprehensive final rule being announced today will assure safe and dignified air travel for those with disabilities. This has been my highest priority and is the reason I introduced the MOBILE Act, whose provisions are incorporated in this well-reasoned and timely approach to those with mobility-related disabilities. I applaud Secretary Buttigieg for getting this rule out, and the flying public will notice the significant improvement.” The final rule ensures safe and dignified assistance, requires annual hands-on training for airline personnel, and mandates prompt boarding, deplaning, and return of mobility devices. Airlines must notify passengers about the status of their wheelchairs and provide loaner devices, repair or replacement options, and reimbursements for delays or damages. The rule also improves transparency by requiring airlines to publish cargo hold dimensions and sets new standards for on-board wheelchairs. The final rule will be effective on January 16, 2025 and can be found at https://www.transportation.gov/airconsumer/latest-news. Travelers can learn more about their protections when they fly at FlightRights.gov. Consumers may file an airline complaint with the Department here. # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cohen-polio-survivor-comes-out-publicly-against-robert-f,"Congressman Cohen, a Polio Survivor, Comes Out Publicly Against Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s Nomination for HHS Secretary",2024-12-17,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,TN,Steve Cohen,C001068,cohen.house.gov,cohen,https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9) today announced that he will publicly oppose the nomination of Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services. Congressman Cohen, one of two members of Congress who contracted polio as children and continue to suffer its debilitating effects, said Kennedy’s anti-vaccine obsession makes him the wrong person for the job. Congressman Cohen made the following statement: “Despite my cordial relations with Robert Kennedy over 40 years, his position on vaccines disqualifies him for consideration as a Secretary of Health and Human Services. I contacted polio as a child, spent three months in the hospital and more than a year on crutches. I still wear a brace because it is difficult to stand, even for the national anthem. “I believe I have a duty to speak out for all who have had polio – from those lightly affected to those who lived in iron lungs and died. For those unfamiliar with polio, it’s important to learn from those infirmities. “In 1954, my father was a pediatrician in Memphis, Tennessee. As part of the worldwide effort to stop polio, he was given a limited number of Salk vaccine doses to give to second graders. My brother was in second grade and so received one of the doses. I was in kindergarten and didn’t meet the medical protocol. Unvaccinated, I contracted polio in September of 1954. Fortunately, I was among the lucky ones who survived but I was hospitalized, treated with hot packs, spent over a year on crutches, and I endured years of physical therapy. I now suffer the effects of post-polio syndrome which requires me to wear a brace for walking and standing. Many others were much more severely affected. “For 70 years, the world has been near polio-free thanks to the Salk and subsequent polio vaccines. Most people don’t give a second thought to polio, as they have been the beneficiaries of the vaccine. In the early winter of 1954, Robert Kennedy Jr., now the President-elect’s nominee to lead the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, was born into a world blessed with a polio vaccine. He and his contemporaries were among those fortunately spared the scourge of polio. “Kennedy, who has earned a reputation as the leading voice against vaccinations of all kinds, is being advised in choosing health care officials by his attorney, Aaron Siri. Siri specializes in anti-vaccine lawsuits of all sorts and has petitioned the U.S. Government to revoke the approval of the polio vaccine. Kennedy himself has spoken about having a placebo study for the polio vaccine in which some children would not get immunized while others would. That’s morally unacceptable. “Because of the Salk and other vaccines, we have almost wiped polio out worldwide. Thanks to the alliance of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and Rotary International, the polio vaccine is available around the world. “If Kennedy were successful in rolling back the polio vaccine’s approval, potentially millions would suffer and many would die. The only other member of Congress who is a polio survivor, Senator Mitch McConnell, stated that ‘efforts to undermine public confidence in proven cures are not just uninformed — they’re dangerous.’ “Leaving children unvaccinated for polio will also be an expensive and unnecessary experiment that, in addition to the human costs, will cost the taxpayer. The medical care for those who contract polio will be great and many who survive will need life-long care. “Robert Kennedy Jr. may have some good ideas about nutrition and processed foods, but should not be in charge of the health and medical care. I do not say that lightly because I have known him for many years and we have had a good relationship. But I can’t forget that I was the child who did not receive the vaccine and polio has been a constant part of my life. “We must respect established scientific facts. We must follow rigorous scientific protocols and follow the facts as they become available, but we do not need to turn back established medical protocols on the whim of those who have no medical training. There is no doubt about the safety and efficacy of the polio vaccine in preventing polio. None.” # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/national-security/blackburn-urges-dod-to-protect-u-s-airspace-national-security-following-ongoing-drone-sightings,Blackburn Urges DOD to Protect U.S. Airspace & National Security Following Ongoing Drone Sightings,2024-12-17,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) sent a letter to U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) Secretary Lloyd Austin regarding the ongoing drone sightings across the Eastern United States over the past several weeks. In the letter, Senator Blackburn requested more information on the DOD’s assessments of the drone sightings, what counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems are currently deployed to address these threats, and how the DOD is coordinating with federal, state, and local authorities. Drone Sightings Appear to Be Part of Broader Foreign Surveillance Pattern of U.S. Activity “I write to urgently raise concerns regarding the ongoing drone sightings across the Eastern United States, which have been widely reported over the past several weeks. These incidents, which seem to involve clusters of drones appearing near critical infrastructure and sensitive areas, represent a growing threat to our national security that demands immediate and serious attention. The reports of drone activity appear to be part of a broader pattern of foreign surveillance and intelligence-gathering efforts, including the 2023 Chinese spy balloon incident and the recent Chinese-backed Salt Typhoon hack targeting our telecommunications networks. These actions demonstrate a clear willingness from adversarial nations to utilize unconventional technologies to surveil, gather intelligence, and intimidate.” Blackburn Urges DOD to Take Clear and Immediate Action to Send a Strong Message to Any U.S. Adversaries Seeking to Undermine National Security “The persistence of credible sightings indicates a significant and evolving risk. The drone sightings across the East Coast should be viewed within this context as part of an ongoing, multidimensional threat to our national security. I strongly urge the Department of Defense to take all necessary steps – up to and including military action – to ensure the protection of our airspace and the security of the American people. A clear and immediate response will not only mitigate the current threat but also send a message to any foreign power seeking to undermine the security and safety of the United States.”",1,2026-04-07T15:46:19Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/technology/bipartisan-bicameral-legislation-to-prevent-supply-chain-disruptions-protect-american-producers-pocketbooks-set-to-pass-in-end-of-year-package,"Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Prevent Supply Chain Disruptions, Protect American Producers & Pocketbooks, Set to Pass in End of Year Package",2024-12-17,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), and Representatives Larry Bucshon (R-Ind.) and Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), secured a package of provisions based on the bipartisan Promoting Resilient Supply Chains Act in the must-pass Continuing Resolution. The package authorizes the U.S. Department of Commerce to strengthen American supply chains for critical industries and emerging technologies by working with the private sector and other U.S. government partners to anticipate and prevent future supply chain disruptions before they happen. In the process, it will also identify opportunities to grow manufacturing capacity and jobs, and reduce costs for American consumers. “Strengthening supply chains is essential to ensuring that groceries, fuel, household products, and every other consumer product is accessible and affordable,” said Sen. Blackburn. “To achieve a strong, resilient, supply chain, we must have a coordinated, national strategy that decreases dependence on our adversaries, like Communist China, and leverages American ingenuity. By establishing a supply chain resiliency program at the Department of Commerce, the U.S. government can better coordinate with private sector partners, identify risks, and increase our competitiveness.” “Strengthening our supply chains is essential to ensuring that critical goods remain accessible and affordable,” Sen. Cantwell said. “And we need strong, secure supply chains to keep our country competitive in the global race for emerging technologies. This bill will strengthen American manufacturing jobs, keep our store shelves stocked and lower costs for American families."" Senators Cantwell and Blackburn introduced the Promoting Resilient Supply Chains Act (S. 4375) in May 2024. The House companion legislation, introduced by Reps. Bucshon and Blunt Rochester (H.R. 6571), overwhelmingly passed the House the same month. “The past few years have revealed significant weaknesses in the supply chains that Americans depend on, affecting everything from manufacturers and healthcare providers to our warfighters. Now more than ever, we must support American business seeking to diversify their supply chains and reduce reliance on unstable or adversarial trading partners such as China,” said Dr. Bucshon. “The inclusion of key provisions from The Promoting Resilient Supply Chains Act will help bolster our economy by enabling us to proactively address potential disruptions and respond effectively when they arise.” “Strong, functional, and secure supply chains are critical not just to our businesses and workers, but to our national security. I am thrilled that provisions from our bipartisan Promoting Resilient Supply Chains Act, legislation I championed alongside Dr. Bucshon in the House, is set to pass in the end of year package and be on its way to President Biden’s desk for his signature,” said Rep. Blunt Rochester, a member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee. “The pandemic exposed the need for us to shore up our supply chains, and in the years since, I’ve heard directly from Delawareans about how shortages of critical goods have impacted them, their families, and their businesses. It’s why I’ve been laser-focused on building bipartisan and bicameral support for this legislation, so we can put a national strategy in place to anticipate shocks before they occur, ultimately creating more good-paying jobs and lowering costs for consumers in Delaware and across our nation.” Geopolitical conflicts, natural disasters and the pandemic have highlighted the fragility of supply chains. These events can cause significant delays and shortages, impacting everything from consumer goods to critical medical supplies and driving up the costs of consumer goods. The U.S. is heavily reliant on single countries for critical supply chain segments, including manufacturing components, critical minerals, and active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). This concentration poses a significant risk of disruption. Most U.S. companies currently lack full visibility into their supply chains, with estimates suggesting that more than 90 percent do not have complete transparency throughout their entire supply chain. The Promoting Resilient Supply Chains Act: Section-by-Section",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/technology/blackburn-blumenthal-joint-statement-on-house-leadership-s-refusal-to-allow-a-vote-on-the-kids-online-safety-act,"Blackburn, Blumenthal Joint Statement on House Leadership’s Refusal to Allow a Vote on the Kids Online Safety Act",2024-12-17,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) released the following statement on the status of passing the Kids Online Safety Act in the 118th Congress: “While the House has refused to take up the bipartisan Kids Online Safety Act, countless children and teens have died from suicide, mental health disorders, predation, bullying, and drug use fostered and fueled by Big Tech. One of these victims, Jesse Harrington, was a 15-year-old boy who wanted to be a firefighter and died by suicide in October after becoming addicted to Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok, while the House sat on its hands at the behest of Mark Zuckerberg. The House’s active obstruction of the Kids Online Safety Act will tragically result in the deaths of even more children like Jesse. To be clear: the blockade against safeguards and accountability was about padding Big Tech’s financial bottom line, not principle. For nearly four years, we have worked with more than 240 organizations and colleagues across the political spectrum to craft bipartisan legislation to protect children online from Big Tech abuses – legislation that passed the Senate on a 91-3 vote. Yet falsehoods crafted in Silicon Valley boardrooms and parroted by Washington politicians, along with millions of dollars spent along the way, held up KOSA in the House to advance Meta and Google's goal of profiting off our children. We are thankful to Senate leadership, most especially Senators Chuck Schumer, Mitch McConnell, John Thune, Ted Cruz, and Maria Cantwell and the powerful bipartisan coalition that supported KOSA and continues to believe it is necessary. We are grateful for the many free speech advocates who saw through Big Tech's lies and smokescreen, including Elon Musk, Linda Yaccarino, and Donald Trump, Jr. It was House Republican leadership who chose not to move this bill forward despite overwhelming support. We will continue the strongly bipartisan fight on the Kids Online Safety Act for the young people and parents across the country that have spoken up and demanded reforms from Big Tech. The American public deserves to know that their families and kids’ lives are more important than Meta and Google’s profits.” – Senators Blackburn and Blumenthal RELATED:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/veterans/blackburn-demands-accountability-from-secretary-mcdonough-on-mountain-home-va-scandal,Blackburn Demands Accountability from Secretary McDonough on Mountain Home VA Scandal,2024-12-17,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) sent a letter to U.S. Secretary of Veterans Affairs Denis McDonough regarding the disturbing reports of sexual harassment, sexual assault, and inappropriate workplace conduct involving multiple employees at the Mountain Home Veterans Affairs Medical Center (VAMC). Senator Blackburn requested an update on the status of the ongoing investigation, how many allegations have been made against the Mountain Home VAMC in recent years, what corrective actions will be taken, and how many employees have been terminated or reassigned as a result of the investigation. Mountain Home VAMC Is Subject of Ongoing Investigation on Reports of Sexual Harassment, Sexual Assault, and Inappropriate Workplace Conduct “I write to inquire about the ongoing investigation into allegations of misconduct at the James H. Quillen Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center (Mountain Home VAMC) in Johnson City, Tennessee. As you know, your staff briefed me regarding disturbing reports of sexual harassment, sexual assault, and inappropriate workplace conduct involving multiple employees at the Mountain Home VAMC.” Such Disgusting Misconduct Should Never Have Been Allowed to Occur “It is beyond reprehensible that no individual has been held meaningfully accountable for their actions. Equally troubling are the leadership and oversight failures that may have allowed such misconduct to occur. The absence of clear answers, coupled with media reports, has caused unnecessary distress among the Mountain Home veteran community. The VA must act urgently to address these concerns. Transparency and accountability are not optional—they are essential to restoring trust and ensuring my constituents feel that they can expect this facility to provide them with the highest standard of care.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://burchett.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-burchett-votes-against-fy2025-ndaa,Congressman Burchett votes against FY2025 NDAA,2024-12-16,2024,2024-12,Republican,House,TN,Tim Burchett,B001309,burchett.house.gov,burchett,https://burchett.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C., (December 11, 2024) – Today, U.S. Congressman Tim Burchett (TN-02) voted against the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2025. “It spends $9 billion more than last year's NDAA and the Pentagon just failed their seventh consecutive audit. I'm not going to vote taxpayer money into thin air or put it into the hands of folks who can't handle it."" said Rep. Burchett. The FY2025 National Defense Authorization Act authorizes $895.2 billion in defense spending, an increase of over $9 billion from the FY2024 NDAA. For reference, in 2020, the U.S. authorized $778.4 billion in defense spending.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cohen-announces-6-million-grant-literacy-mid-south,Congressman Cohen Announces $6 Million Grant to Literacy Mid-South,2024-12-16,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,TN,Steve Cohen,C001068,cohen.house.gov,cohen,https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9) today announced that Literacy Mid-South Inc., in partnership with Memphis-Shelby County Schools (MSCS) and the Center for Research in Education Policy at the University of Memphis, will receive a $6 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education. The funding over five years will support Literacy Mid-South’s “Tutor901: High Impact Tutoring for High Needs Students,” a program that will focus on about 1,500 second-fourth grade students in 18 MSCS elementary schools. The program is aligned with the Department of Education’s definition of “underserved students,” including those living in poverty and performing significantly below grade level. The progress of the effort will be rigorously evaluated to ensure its effectiveness. Congressman Cohen made the following statement: “Reading is fundamental for getting ahead in the modern world. This substantial investment in our elementary school students most in need of assistance will pay dividends in improved life outcomes. I am pleased to see Literacy Mid-South taking this initiative and appreciate the dedicated tutors who will be doing this critically important, inspiring, and fulfilling work.” # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cohen-speaks-favor-and-votes-reauthorize-soar-act,Congressman Cohen Speaks in Favor and Votes to Reauthorize the SOAR Act,2024-12-16,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,TN,Steve Cohen,C001068,cohen.house.gov,cohen,https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9) today spoke from the House floor and voted for reauthorizing the Stop, Observe, Ask and Respond (SOAR) to Health and Wellness Act that became law in 2018. The legislation aims to renew and continue essential training for health care professionals in identifying and responding to human trafficking. The measure passed the House by voice vote. In his floor speech, Congressman Cohen said the idea for the legislation came from a meeting he had with health professionals at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center, then added in part: “The SOAR to Health and Wellness Program has made tremendous strides to train health care workers on the signs of human trafficking and the appropriate steps to take once a victim has been identified. As Members of Congress, we should continue to support this program so that more people can be trained to properly identify and assist victims of human trafficking. “We should pass the reauthorization bill, and we should let our constituents know that if they are being trafficked or are suspicious that someone they see is being trafficked, help is available.” Congressman Cohen also offered phone numbers to assist those suspicious they are witnessing possible trafficking: the Homeland Security Investigations Tip Line at 866-347-2423 and the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 888-373-7888. See those remarks here. The SOAR Act would support efforts at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to combat human trafficking by re-establishing the “Stop, Observe, Ask and Respond to Health and Wellness Training” program. While human trafficking victims are often difficult to identify, many trafficking victims end up in a health care setting at some point while being exploited, including in clinics, emergency rooms and doctors’ offices. The SOAR Act would help close the gap in health care settings without plans for treating human trafficking victims by: Re-Establishing the “SOAR to Health and Wellness Training” Grant Program: The bill would allocate $4 million annually to fund training for healthcare professionals to recognize the indicators of human trafficking and provide appropriate care to victims; Encouraging an Interdisciplinary Approach: The SOAR Act encourages collaboration among healthcare providers, law enforcement, and service organizations to support victims and bring perpetrators to justice; and Providing Continued Support: The bill reinforces commitment to ongoing education and awareness efforts within the healthcare community to address human trafficking. Congressman Cohen has been a leading advocate for addressing human trafficking for years. He first introduced the SOAR Act in 2016 following a discussion on human trafficking awareness at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center in Memphis, attended by first responders, health care workers, faith-based groups, and more. The bill’s initial passage and subsequent implementation have marked significant strides in the national effort to combat human trafficking, with tens of thousands of health care professionals across the country receiving specialized training. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-06T19:07:19Z https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cohen-announces-885504-grant-southwest-tennessee-community,"Congressman Cohen Announces $885,504 Grant to Southwest Tennessee Community College",2024-12-12,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,TN,Steve Cohen,C001068,cohen.house.gov,cohen,https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9) today announced that Southwest Tennessee Community College (STCC) will receive a grant of $885,504 from the U.S. Department of Education’s Basic Needs – Supporting Student Success Program. The funding will support on-campus food pantries, free bus passes, and a kiosk to help students connect with local, state and federal benefit programs, among other things, for an estimated 700 students over three years. The goal is to reach higher retention levels and increase degree or certificate completion by reducing “basic needs insecurity.” Congressman Cohen made the following statement: “Low-income and other disadvantaged students will benefit from this grant, which will improve access to the basic needs that will keep them in the classroom and completing their studies.” # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cohen-introduces-resolution-abolish-electoral-college-0,Congressman Cohen Introduces Resolution to Abolish the Electoral College,2024-12-12,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,TN,Steve Cohen,C001068,cohen.house.gov,cohen,https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9) today reintroduced a joint resolution to amend the Constitution by abolishing the Electoral College. The archaic vestige of a compromise with pro-slavery Southerners during the 18th century debate over the U.S. Constitution, the Electoral College can – and has, as recently as 2016 – thwarted the will of the American people by installing as president the loser of the popular vote. Congressman Cohen made the following statement: “Americans expect and deserve to see the winner of the national popular vote for any elected office assume the office as its legitimate winner. The Electoral College is a vestige of the 18th Century when voters didn’t know the candidates. Today, Presidential candidates are widely known and regularly appear on Americans’ phones and television screens. It is also a relic of a time when pro-slavery Southerners debating the Constitution in 1787 sought and gained electoral strength by counting ineligible, non-voting enslaved people as part of their state populations. “The President should be elected by the people, not politicians. We must count every vote, and every vote should be counted equally. “While there is so much wrong in incoming President Trump’s Electoral College Truth Social post, one thing is true: it is long past time to abolish this anachronistic institution and guarantee that the winner of the popular vote takes office. I welcome President Trump’s support for a national popular vote and encourage Republicans to follow his lead and support this Amendment.” On December 9, 2024, Donald J. Trump posted on Truth Social that “The Democrats are fighting hard to get rid of the Popular Vote in future Elections. They want all future Presidential elections to be based exclusively on the Electoral College!” Congressman Cohen, a senior member of the Judiciary Committee, has introduced similar joint resolutions in 2021 and 2019. # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases/chairman-fleischmann-votes-to-pass-fiscal-year-2025-national-defense-authorization-act,Chairman Fleischmann Votes to Pass Fiscal Year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act,2024-12-12,2024,2024-12,Republican,House,TN,"Charles J. ""Chuck"" Fleischmann",F000459,fleischmann.house.gov,fleischmann,https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"“The Fiscal Year 2025 NDAA is an essential bill that makes critical investments in our military, troops, and, most importantly, our nation’s nuclear deterrent and infrastructure, which are all of the highest priority for the safety and security of the United States and the entire free world. There is no denying the fact that Communist China, Russia, and their proxies are heavily investing in their nuclear arsenals and militaries with the intent of spreading their malign influence throughout the world. Sadly, because of the weakness of the Biden-Harris Administration, we’ve seen Russia invade the sovereign country of Ukraine and threaten the world with the use of a tactical nuclear weapon, and Communist China continues to threaten the sovereignty of Taiwan and the entire Asia-Pacific region. As the enemies of freedom continue to threaten the world, the United States of America must not fall behind in our military capabilities to keep not only our nation free and safe, but also the entire free world,” said Chairman Fleischmann. “The FY25 NDAA restores military lethality by investing in state-of-the-art weaponry and military systems while removing Biden’s and Harris’ woke policies that have been forced on our servicemen and women, gives our troops a must needed and deserved pay raise, cuts unnecessary spending; saving taxpayers billions, and, most importantly, makes essential upgrades to America’s nuclear deterrent and infrastructure that are critical for our nation to not fall behind China and Russia. As Chairman of Energy and Water Appropriations, one of my highest priorities has been to modernize and invest in our nuclear deterrent so the United States and our allies will never be able to be threatened by our adversaries with nuclear supremacy. We can never allow Russia or Communist China to replace the United States of America as the global nuclear superpower, and the FY25 NDAA ensures this will not happen.” “Specifically, as Chairman of Energy and Water Appropriations, I am pleased that the FY25 NDAA: Fully funds modernization of America’s nuclear triad, as well as the infrastructure and nuclear command, control, and communications that support our nuclear deterrent. Fully supports plutonium pit production at the Savannah River Site and Los Alamos National Laboratory. Fully funds the construction and procurement of new Columbia class ballistic missile submarines and support infrastructure. Prohibits the Biden Administration from admitting Chinese, Russian, Iranian, and North Korean nationals to enter nuclear laboratories and related facilities. “We live in a dangerous world. Every American has seen the global geopolitical situation deteriorate over the last four years due to our adversaries’ perceived weakness of the United States under Joe Biden’s and Kamala Harris’ weak leadership. As we turn the page on the last four years, we must do everything in our power to strengthen and revitalize our military. I strongly applaud my colleagues in the House for passing the FY25 NDAA and urge the Senate to quickly follow the House’s lead and pass the NDAA so we can begin to make America Strong Again and reassert America’s global military leadership.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cohen-announces-26-million-head-start-and-early-head-start,Congressman Cohen Announces $2.6 Million in Head Start and Early Head Start Funding for Porter-Leath,2024-12-11,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,TN,Steve Cohen,C001068,cohen.house.gov,cohen,https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9) today announced that Porter-Leath Inc will receive a grant of $2,667,179 from the Administration for Children and Families Office of Head Start to operate its Head Start and Early Head Start programs. Congressman Cohen made the following statement: “This is an investment in our community, its children and our future. I’m pleased that Porter-Leath will be receiving this Head Start funding to help ensure children in our community will be ready for the classroom and the future. Head Start and Early Head Start provide essential preparation and needed skills for Shelby County children so that they are academically and socially ready to succeed in an increasingly complex world. Early Head Start programs provide these essential skills to our younger children, making sure they are ready for kindergarten and elementary school.” Porter-Leath has served the Memphis community for more than 160 years, offering resources to at-risk children and their families. The Administration of Children and Families partners with local providers to address and respond to the needs of vulnerable families, while the Office of Head Start allocates grant funding to nonprofit and for-profit agencies that offer Head Start services. Both organizations emphasize inclusive and holistic early development programs to better communities across the United States. # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cohen-seeks-ensure-compliance-faa-reauthorization-act,Congressman Cohen Seeks to Ensure Compliance with FAA Reauthorization Act in Hearing on its Implementation,2024-12-11,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,TN,Steve Cohen,C001068,cohen.house.gov,cohen,https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9), the Ranking Member of the Aviation Subcommittee, today extolled the bipartisan leadership of the Transportation and Infrastructure (T&I) Committee that led to overwhelming support of this year’s Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Reauthorization Act. Congressman Cohen emphasized the importance of ensuring that the provisions of the law, signed six months ago, are fully implemented as Congress intended. He highlighted specific measures he championed, including the EVAC Act, dealing with evacuation standards, the Prioritizing Accountability and Accessibility for Aviation Consumers Act, dealing with complaints filed by passengers with disabilities, and the SAFE Act, dealing with regulations related to flight data recovery for aircraft used in extended overwater operations. In his opening statement, Congressman Cohen said in part: “While the 118th Congress is on track to become one of the least productive in U.S. history, that is not the case in this Committee, where earlier this year we passed an overwhelmingly bipartisan, long-term FAA reauthorization bill. It has now been over six months since FAA reauthorization was signed into law, so it is time to ensure the law is being expeditiously implemented. “The bill aimed to address numerous challenges facing our aviation system. These include the modernization of safety and technology infrastructure, the integration of new entrants into U.S. skies, the shortage of air traffic controllers, and the poor treatment of airline passengers, especially passengers with disabilities.” See Congressman Cohen’s entire opening statement here. In his questions to witnesses, Congressman Cohen focused on some of the provisions of the new law that he championed that would require realistic tests of whether aircraft can meet the 90-second evacuation standard, the treatment of passengers with disabilities and their mobility aids, and efforts to strengthen the aviation workforce, including hiring more air traffic controllers. See Congressman Cohen’s line of questioning here. Witnesses at today’s hearing were: Mr. Jason Terreri, Executive Director, Syracuse Regional Airport Authority, on behalf of the Airports Council International - North America (ACI-NA); Mr. Adam Woodworth, Chief Executive Officer, Wing; Mr. Pete Bunce, President & Chief Executive Officer, General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA); and Mr. Greg Regan, President, Transportation Trades Department, AFL-CIO (TTD) # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-harshbarger-introduces-legislation-eliminate-pbm-monopoly-pharmaceutical,Rep. Harshbarger Introduces Legislation to Eliminate the PBM Monopoly on the Pharmaceutical Delivery Chain,2024-12-11,2024,2024-12,Republican,House,TN,Diana Harshbarger,H001086,harshbarger.house.gov,harshbarger,https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C. – Today, Representatives Diana Harshbarger (R-Tenn.) and Jake Auchincloss (D-Mass.) introduced the Patients Before Monopolies (PBM) Act. This bipartisan, bicameral legislation will prohibit joint ownership of pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) and pharmacies, a gross conflict of interest that enables these companies to enrich themselves at the expense of patients and independent pharmacies. The Senate version of the bill was introduced by Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) Over the past decade, pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) — the middlemen between pharmacies and health insurance companies — have morphed into large healthcare conglomerates that exercise control over every link in the prescription drug coverage and delivery chain. Today, the largest healthcare conglomerates each own a PBM — which pays for pharmacy services — as well as the pharmacy chains that provide those services. This inherent conflict of interest results in higher drug costs for patients and fewer independent pharmacies, but bigger profits for the corporate healthcare giants. The Patients Before Monopolies (PBM) Act would address this by: Prohibiting a parent company of a PBM or a health insurer from owning a pharmacy business; Requiring that a parent company in violation of the PBM Act divest its pharmacy business within three years; Enabling the FTC, Department of Health and Human Services, Antitrust Division of the Department of Justice, and state attorneys general to issue orders requiring violators of the PBM Act to divest its pharmacy business and disgorge any revenue received during the period of such violation; Directing the FTC to distribute any disgorged revenue to harmed communities, including consumers overcharged at vertically integrated pharmacies; Mandating reporting of all divestitures to the FTC, and allowing the FTC to review all divestitures and subsequent acquisitions to protect competition, financial viability, and the public interest. “As a life-long pharmacist, I know first-hand how unchecked PBM consolidation and vertical integration have allowed these shadowy middlemen to self-deal and manipulate the system in ways that are driving up drug costs, limiting patient choices, and putting the financial screws to independent community pharmacies,” said Representative Harshbarger. “I’m a proud conservative Republican, but we have antitrust laws for a reason. That’s why I’m joining my colleagues in introducing the bipartisan Patients Before Monopolies Act, which will protect consumers and taxpayers, and ensure fair competition by breaking up these anticompetitive, conflict-of-interest arrangements. Federal regulators should never have let this excessive concentration of our healthcare industry happen in the first place, and so it’s up to Congress to get the job done.” “The PBM industry is rife with self-dealing that raises costs for patients and bankrupts independent pharmacists. No PBM should be allowed to own pharmacies because it poses an unacceptable conflict of interest when it then sets reimbursement rates for its own versus external pharmacies. Independent pharmacies deserve fair play,” said Representative Auchincloss. ThePatients Before Monopolies (PBM) Act is endorsed by the American Economic Liberties Project (AELP), National Community Pharmacists Association (NCPA), American Pharmacy Cooperative, Inc. (APCI), Pharmacists United for Truth and Transparency (PUTT), Patients Rising, and AffirmedRx. “Giant PBMs and insurers owning their own pharmacies has driven independent pharmacies out of business and reduced patient access to quality care. The Patients Before Monopolies Act addresses the root cause of this problem — consolidated market power — by eliminating the inherent conflicts of interest within the big three PBM business model,” said Morgan Harper, Director of Policy and Advocacy at the American Economic Liberties Project. “We are thrilled to see Rep. Harshbarger and Rep. Auchincloss lead this bipartisan effort to lower drug costs, protect independent retail pharmacies, and improve patient access to care.” “A particularly egregious result of the vertical integration of PBM-insurers with retail and mail-order pharmacies is that the PBM – which competes with independent pharmacies and others – decides what their rival pharmacy will be reimbursed and which patients will be allowed to use them. There are also countless examples of PBMs paying their pharmacies much higher reimbursement than non-affiliated pharmacies and using patient data to steer patients to their own pharmacies,” said Anne Cassity, Senior Vice President of Government Affairs for the National Community Pharmacists Association. “We're grateful to Reps. Harshbarger and Auchincloss for introducing the PBM Act, which will go a long way in eliminating the conflicts of interest that currently exist in this space.” “The inherent conflicts of interest between PBMs owning their own retail, mail-order, and specialty pharmacies have resulted in higher drug costs, reduced patient choice and access to care, and unsustainable reimbursements to non-PBM affiliated pharmacies. With retail pharmacies closing at an alarming rate and patients fighting life-threatening diseases being steered to PBM-owned pharmacies and often overcharged thousands of dollars for medications, the Patients Before Monopolies Act couldn’t come soon enough,” said Greg Reybold, Vice President of Healthcare Policy and General Counsel at the American Pharmacy Cooperative, Inc. “This commonsense legislation strikes at the heart of anti-competitive PBM behavior and roots out conflicts of interest by prohibiting ownership of both a PBM and a pharmacy. American Pharmacy Cooperative, Inc., is grateful to Reps. Harshbarger and Auchincloss for their work and leadership on this issue and looks forward to fighting for this critically important piece of legislation.” “While there are a variety of conflicts of interest that can compromise the intended role of PBMs to act as counterweights to inflated drug prices, one of the chief areas of system misalignment arises from PBM ownership of pharmacies. As these large vertically integrated companies serve as both price-setter and price-taker for pharmacy transactions, PBM incentives to reduce drug markups and to manage pharmacy reimbursement and network decisions in an unconflicted manner are significantly undermined,” said Antonio Ciaccia, President of 3 Axis Advisors. “In our work advising government programs and commercial plan sponsors, we stress that minimizing or eliminating these areas of misalignment are foundationally critical in order to achieve greater balance for medicine accessibility and affordability.” ""For too long vertically integrated PBMs have put profits over patients, driving up costs, limiting access to essential medications, and forcing countless independent pharmacies to close their doors. The Patients Before Monopolies Act is a step toward breaking these monopolies, restoring fairness and competition and, most importantly, ensuring patients get the care they need at a price they can afford,” said Greg Baker, Pharmacist, CEO of AffirmedRx, a transparent PBM. “At the heart of our mission is the belief that transparency and integrity should be the foundation of health care. I congratulate Representatives Harshbarger and Auchincloss for putting patients first, and urge Congress to pass this bipartisan bill.” ""This bill is the next step in urgently-needed legislation to eliminate the profiteering and other conflicts of interest that exist when private health insurers and their pharmacy benefit managers are allowed to design and sell health benefit plans while also owning pharmacies, clinics, and other point-of-care entities,” said Monique Whitney, Executive Director of Pharmacists United for Truth and Transparency. “Vertical integration among the largest healthcare insurers has only served to saddle Americans with the priciest possible premiums for impossibly high-deductible plans that provide fewer options and ultimately result in poorer health outcomes. We applaud Representatives Harshbarger and Auchincloss for recognizing the need to dismantle the current system, which has failed consumers and taxpayers at just about every level.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issue/technology/blackburn-on-fox-business-we-have-the-votes-to-pass-kosa-in-the-house,Blackburn on Fox Business: ‘We Have the Votes to Pass KOSA in the House’,2024-12-11,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today on Fox Business’ Varney & Co., U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) urged House Republican leadership to call a vote on the Kids Online Safety Act, which overwhelmingly passed the Senate 91-3 in July. Last week, free speech champion Elon Musk endorsed the new negotiated text as well as X CEO Linda Yaccarino and Donald Trump, Jr. Click here to download video of Senator Blackburn’s remarks about KOSA on Fox Business. STUART VARNEY: “House lawmakers have just weeks to pass the bipartisan Kids Online Safety Act before the new Congress is sworn in. The Senate has already passed this bill with overwhelming majority. This bill would limit who kids can talk to, limit infinite scrolling and notifications, make it easy for kids to delete data, and a whole lot more… Are there enough votes to get this thing passed now?” SENATOR BLACKBURN: “Yes, indeed. In the House, we have enough votes to get it passed. It is a matter of the Leader and the Speaker in the House actually putting it on the floor and calling a vote. There’s been all these falsehoods about the bill, and we have worked to tighten up protections on free speech. We have addressed some of the ‘duty of care.’ There is absolutely no reason for the bill not to move forward.” “Stuart, when Elon Musk has signed off on this bill – he is truly the free speech champion. He bought X to make certain that free speech was protected. And he and Linda Yaccarino, who is the CEO of X, have both tweeted in support. Donald Trump, Jr. has tweeted in support. We need to make certain we put protections in place for our children in the virtual space just like we have them in the physical space.” RELATED: Blackburn, Blumenthal Statement on New ‘X’ Negotiated KOSA Text",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/jobs-and-economy/blackburn-tenney-introduce-doge-acts-to-make-federal-government-more-efficient-and-slash-wasteful-spending,"Blackburn, Tenney Introduce “DOGE Acts” to Make Federal Government More Efficient and Slash Wasteful Spending",2024-12-11,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn) and U.S. Representative Claudia Tenney (R-N.Y.) introduced a package of bills known as the “DOGE Acts” to hold the federal government accountable for managing taxpayer dollars. The DOGE Acts coincide with President-elect Trump’s recently announced Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), which will be led by entrepreneurs Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy. “The American people have had enough of outsized bureaucracy and wasteful government spending. The DOGE Acts are the first step to achieving government efficiency by requiring federal employees to get back in the office, moving federal agencies into the heartland of America, cutting bloated federal spending across the board, and freezing federal hiring and salaries until we can rightsize the federal government,” said Senator Blackburn. “Under President Trump's leadership and a Republican-controlled Congress, we are determined to cut wasteful government spending and reduce costs for hardworking Americans. Congress is ready to collaborate with Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy to rein in bloated budgets, relocate federal agencies out of Washington, DC, reform outdated bureaucracies, and ensure bureaucrats actually work for their pay. The DOGE Acts embody these priorities, serving as a bold first step in advancing the incoming Trump Administration's 'Make America Efficient Again' agenda,” said Representative Tenney. THE DOGE ACTS: The DOGE Acts include the separate pieces of legislation below: The Federal Freeze Act would help address out-of-control spending and save taxpayer dollars by implementing a one-year freeze on increases in federal civilian employees’ salaries, directing federal agency heads to establish a cap on the number of workers that can be employed over a period of three years, and decreasing the number of employees at federal agencies. This legislation would exempt certain employees deemed necessary to serve the interests of law enforcement, national security, public safety, and public health services. Click here for bill text. The Commission to Relocate the Federal Bureaucracy Act would decentralize the power held by unelected bureaucrats in Washington D.C. by establishing a plan to relocate non-national security related agencies to states across the country based on financial efficiency, existing infrastructure, and related industries. Click here for bill text. The Federal Employee Performance and Accountability Act would establish a performance-based pay structure that bolsters government efficiency by incentivizing high performance among federal employees, exempting agencies deemed necessary for national security or public safety. Click here for bill text. The Stopping Home Office Work’s Unproductive Problems (SHOW UP) Act would require federal agencies to return to pre-pandemic telework levels within 30 days and would prevent federal agencies from permanently expanding telework without submitting to Congress telework plans certified by the Office of Personnel Management (OPM). This legislation passed the House last year. Click here for bill text.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/technology/blackburn-warner-delbene-pfluger-introduce-legislation-to-strengthen-u-s-immersive-technology-leadership,"Blackburn, Warner, DelBene, Pfluger Introduce Legislation to Strengthen U.S. Immersive Technology Leadership",2024-12-11,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Mark Warner (D-Va.) along with Representatives Suzan DelBene (D-Wash.) and August Pfluger (R-Texas) introduced the United States Leadership in Immersive Technology Act to establish an advisory panel tasked with creating a national immersive technology strategy: “We need to stay two steps ahead of our adversaries when it comes to applying immersive technology in American industries and stimulating economic growth,” said Senator Blackburn. “Our United States Leadership in Immersive Technology Act would make certain we can compete with adversaries like the Chinese Communist Party and safeguard national security as virtual reality and augmented reality become more prevalent on the world stage.” “The global technology landscape is rapidly changing. In order to take full advantage of the possibilities of XR, remain competitive globally, and protect our national interests, it’s crucial that we have industry and government leaders working together on the same page. This legislation will help to do just that by creating a national strategy for XR,” said Senator Warner. “We cannot allow ourselves to be left behind in the burgeoning XR field,” said Rep. DelBene. “As our world becomes increasingly technological, it is crucial that we prepare to compete effectively on the global stage while protecting our interests. This legislation will help us catch up to other global leaders and regain our foothold in creating national standards.” “Immersive Technology is an essential technological tool utilized by thousands of Americans, businesses, and our military for enhanced simulation and training capabilities. Recently, China has been aggressively investing in XR technology, posing a potential threat to our economic and national security interests,” said Rep. Pfluger. “Our legislation will ensure the United States maintains global leadership through a national strategy in this emerging technology.” BACKGROUND: Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR), collectively known as immersive technology (XR), allow us to blend the digital and physical worlds into one integrated experience. From automatically generated closed captions of live conversations for the hearing impaired to creating personalized, hands-on training modules for students, the benefits of XR are limitless. Despite being home to some of the world’s largest XR content and hardware producers, the U.S. lags behind other countries in creating a clear roadmap for applying them to commercial and personal use. Already, South Korea, the United Kingdom, the European Union, and China have strategies that allow them to embrace immersive technologies. The U.S. is relinquishing its role on the international stage to guide the creation of XR standards without a strategy. UNITED STATES LEADERSHIP IN IMMERSIVE TECHNOLOGY ACT: The United States Leadership in Immersive Technology Act would: Direct the U.S. Department of Commerce to create an advisory panel to advise the president on how to utilize XR in commerce, trade, and economic competitiveness, in coordination with relevant Congressional committees. Direct the advisory panel to study the state of XR and the effects of XR on our national security. Read the full bill text here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cohen-and-senator-markey-lead-letter-urging-tva-reconsider,Congressman Cohen and Senator Markey Lead Letter Urging TVA to Reconsider Plans for Increased Use of Natural Gas,2024-12-10,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,TN,Steve Cohen,C001068,cohen.house.gov,cohen,https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9) and Senator Edward J. Markey (MA) led a letter to the leadership of the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) with seven House and two Senate colleagues urging the federally owned electric utility agency to reconsider its focus on expanding gas-fired power generation and instead encourage and plan for renewable energy, energy efficiency, and distributed energy sources in its final Integrated Resource Plan (IRP). The IRP will be used to shape TVA’s energy portfolio through 2050, with lasting impacts on affordability and reliability for its 10 million customers in the Tennessee Valley, as well as on the United States’ clean energy goals. After reviewing the draft IRP, the lawmakers made six specific recommendations to help TVA “lead the energy sector to a cheaper, cleaner, and more reliable future, instead of increasing reliance on expensive, polluting, and unreliable natural gas.” TVA is currently accepting public comments on its IRP until December 11. The letter reads in part: “The Tennessee Valley Authority’s (TVA’s) draft Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) suggests that TVA will need 9 to 26 gigawatts of additional capacity by 2035. We are concerned that up to 19 of those gigawatts may be provided by natural gas plants, many of which rely on expensive carbon capture and sequestration (CCS) and hydrogen that also fail to reduce—and may even increase—conventional pollutants from gas units that directly harm human health. This is in addition to TVA’s existing planned gas buildout, which is projected to be one of the largest of any American utility this decade. Given the urgency of the climate crisis, TVA should prioritize renewables, energy efficiency, and distributed energy in its final IRP, which will reduce costs to consumers.” Read the entire letter here. Environmental groups endorsed the position taken by the lawmakers with the following statements: “Our country’s largest federal utility is stuck in the fossil-fuel era when it should be building a renewable, resilient energy future,” said Gaby Sarri-Tobar, a campaigner with the Center for Biological Diversity’s energy justice program. “TVA’s long-range plan could lock in planet-heating gas and dangerous false solutions like carbon capture, leaving the next generation to shoulder skyrocketing energy bills, more extreme weather, and dirtier air and water. The 10 million people living in the Tennessee Valley are counting on TVA to improve their quality of life. TVA’s leaders can deliver on that promise with a plan for 100 percent renewable energy.” “We are grateful to Congressman Cohen and Senator Markey for their leadership and advocacy for the millions of customers that TVA serves as the utility finalizes its IRP for the next five years,” said Sierra Club’s Beyond Coal Campaign Manager Amy Kelly. “Our communities deserve a plan that lowers energy costs for families, strengthens resilience to severe weather, and reduces harmful pollution. We hope that TVA will seriously consider the concerns outlined by Congressman Cohen, Senator Markey and other members of Congress to finalize a plan that delivers a brighter future for the next generation.” The letter was signed by Senators Jeff Merkley of Oregon and Bernie Sanders of Vermont, and Representatives Nanette Barragán, Raúl Grijalva, Jared Huffman, James McGovern, Eleanor Holmes Norton, Melanie Stansbury, and Rashida Tlaib. # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cohen-votes-water-resources-bill-millions-local-us-army,Congressman Cohen Votes for Water Resources Bill with Millions for Local U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Projects,2024-12-10,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,TN,Steve Cohen,C001068,cohen.house.gov,cohen,https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9), a senior member of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, today voted for the Thomas R. Carper Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2024, which includes major U.S. Army Corps of Engineers projects for improvements in Tennessee’s 9th Congressional District that Congressman Cohen submitted and advocated for. Today, the House voted on the House Amendment to the bill, which represents the final version of WRDA as negotiated over recent months to reconcile the differences between the House and Senate versions. The bill will return to the Senate for its consideration before it can be sent to the White House to be signed into law. The measure includes the dredging of the Pidgeon Harbor, the only Mississippi River access for industries operating from the Pidgeon Industrial Park and authorization for the Hatchie-Loosahatchee Ecosystem Restoration project, which would reconnect habitats, enhance biodiversity, and provide critical ecosystem services across an ecologically significant 39-mile stretch of the Mississippi River near Memphis and approximately 146,000 acres. If successful, the measures from this Restoration Study will help connect the entire Lower Mississippi River floodplain, which is one of the largest floodplains in the world, comprised of approximately three million acres. The WRDA bill also includes policy provisions advocated by Congressman including those to ensure cybersecurity, physical security, public safety, and stakeholder input before any use of remote operations at locks and dams and hydroelectric dams. It also includes some of the Congressman’s environmental justice language affecting the Corps’ approach to projects in disadvantaged communities. Congressman Cohen made the following statement: “This WRDA bill improves critical water resources infrastructure, empowers all communities to engage with the Army Corps, responds to emerging threats from climate change, bolsters local economies, and boosts U.S. economic competitiveness and supply chains. “I am particularly grateful for the inclusion of several of my project and policy requests that will directly impact communities in my district. The inclusion of Pidgeon Harbor in the Army Corps’ Operation and Maintenance General Budget for regular dredging maintenance is essential to its ongoing operation and vital to the companies located at the industrial park. Pidgeon Harbor is the only dedicated access point to the Mississippi River for businesses in the Pidgeon Industrial Park, whose five facilities generate 500 jobs and produce an annual economic impact of $1.2 billion. “Additionally, the inclusion of the Hatchie-Loosahatchie Ecosystem Restoration Feasibility Study will showcase a comprehensive approach to managing the Lower Mississippi River and implementing restoration on a systemic scale. The Hatchie-Loosahatchie project comprehensively addresses significant and historically important habitats in Arkansas and Tennessee and includes measures to address floodplain connectivity and reconnection of side channels, aquatic channel enhancement, restored natural vegetation, and water management. “Once again, Congress has delivered on a bipartisan, bicameral, and biennial WRDA bill that will improve our nation’s ports and harbors, inland waterways, navigation, flood and storm protection, and other aspects of our water resources infrastructure.” # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://ogles.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-ogles-liberty-laundry-act-passes-house,Rep. Ogles' ‘Liberty In Laundry Act’ Passes House,2024-12-10,2024,2024-12,Republican,House,TN,Andrew Ogles,O000175,ogles.house.gov,ogles,https://ogles.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC—Congressman Andy Ogles (TN-05) achieved another significant legislative milestone today with the passage of his standalone bill, the Liberty in Laundry Act, through the House of Representatives. This legislation bars Biden’s Department of Energy from establishing costly energy conservation standards on clothes washers. This bill is one of his many efforts to dismantle the Biden regime’s excessive and unconstitutional regulations on consumer appliances. “I have spent much of my time in Congress fighting back the federal government’s vast overreach into the lives of hardworking Americans. In a slew of woke, “environmental” nonsense rulemaking attempts by the Biden Administration, the Secretary of Energy issued new standards for clothing washers and dryers in March,” said Congressman Ogles. “In response, I introduced the Liberty in Laundry Act, which will prohibit the Secretary of Energy from imposing “energy conservation standards” for clothes washers that are not economically feasible and economically justified. Americans should be able to do their laundry in peace without the input of Big Brother.” Cosponsors (2): Reps. John Moolenar (MI-02) and Diana Harshbarger (TN-01). BILL TEXT",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/immigration/video-blackburn-calls-on-senate-judiciary-committee-to-pass-the-clear-act,VIDEO: Blackburn Calls on Senate Judiciary Committee to Pass the CLEAR Act,2024-12-10,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) called on Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Dick Durbin (D-Ill.) to take up and pass the CLEAR Act, which would ensure state and local law enforcement officials can help the federal government deport criminal illegal immigrants from the U.S. This hearing included testimony from Patty Morin whose daughter, Rachel Morin, was allegedly murdered last year by an illegal immigrant from El Salvador. Click here to download video of Senator Blackburn’s remarks during the Senate Judiciary Committee hearing. Blackburn: Open-Border Policies Are Not Compassionate “This open-border policy that we’ve seen is not a compassionate policy. I’ve talked to people that work with human trafficking and sex trafficking, and what is happening to women and children is abhorrent, and we are all aware of that. Mr. Chairman, I appreciated your remark that we should deport those that are truly a danger to Americans. I think that’s accurate. I don’t think anyone would disagree with that.” Blackburn Calls on Senate Judiciary Committee to Pass the CLEAR Act “We’ve all seen the uptick in violent crimes – such as Ms. Morin and her family have experienced – and this is the reason I re-introduced my CLEAR Act this year, which would enable local law enforcement when they apprehend someone who is in the country illegally to detain them and then call on ICE to deport them. And then the federal government have to repay that local law enforcement agency for what they’ve spent in that apprehension, that detention, and we should pass this bill today. That would be a good thing for this committee to be doing this last week. Pull it up, put it on the hotline, and run it.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://burchett.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-burchett-introduces-pilot-certificate-accessibility-act,Rep. Burchett introduces Pilot Certificate Accessibility Act,2024-12-09,2024,2024-12,Republican,House,TN,Tim Burchett,B001309,burchett.house.gov,burchett,https://burchett.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C., (Dec. 9th, 2024) – Last week, U.S. Congressman Tim Burchett (TN-02) introduced the Pilot Certificate Accessibility Act. Commercial pilots are required to carry paper copies of their original medical and airman certificates in the event inspection is required by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Administrator, a National Transportation Safety board representative, or federal, state or local law officials. The Pilot Certificate Accessibility Act would increase efficiency by allowing pilots to carry digital copies of these documents on electronic devices or cloud storage platforms. “Everything we do is online nowadays,” said Rep. Burchett. “I don't see a reason why our pilots should have to carry physical documents with them instead of keeping them on their phone like everything else.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/news/blackburn-cortez-masto-probe-doj-on-match-fixing-risk-ahead-of-2026-fifa-world-cup-and-2028-olympics,"Blackburn, Cortez Masto Probe DOJ on Match-Fixing Risk Ahead of 2026 FIFA World Cup and 2028 Olympics",2024-12-09,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) sent a letter to U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole Argentieri on the growing risk of match-fixing in the United States and its potential ties to organized crime around the world. Match-fixing not only threatens the game, but is often connected to human trafficking, drug trafficking, arms smuggling, and terrorism. The Senators are seeking answers from the DOJ on U.S. enforcement against match-fixing and the steps federal law enforcement is taking to protect the integrity of sports against those running illegal offshore sports books. American Law Enforcement Must Be Equipped to Combat Organized Crime and Match-Fixing as U.S. Prepares to Host FIFA World Cup and Olympics “We write to you today to express our unease at the growing risk of match-fixing in the United States and its potential ties to organized crime around the world. As the United States plans to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Olympics—two of the biggest sporting events in the world—we must ensure American law enforcement has every tool at their disposal to protect the integrity of the games and fight against organized crime.” Organized Crime Efforts Are Becoming More Sophisticated and Lucrative “Organized crime has long manipulated sporting events, and their efforts are only getting more sophisticated. Match-fixing does not simply pose threats to the integrity of the game, but it can be connected to violent crime—including human trafficking, drug trafficking, arms smuggling, and terrorism. These criminals have seized on illicit sports betting and match-fixing as a vehicle for laundering money and making incredible profits. Foreign, illegal online betting markets have become the perfect venues for these schemes, with studies showing that up to 10% of organized crime revenue is made from sports bets. Experts estimated in 2014 that $140 billion is laundered annually through illegal and unregulated sport betting, an amount that has undoubtedly grown. While the most prominent examples of sports corruption have been international, there is risk of match-fixing in this country... Given this risk, it is important to ensure the United States government has every possible tool to keep our sports safe for players and fans alike.” Match-Fixing Exploits the Vulnerable, Harms Athletes, and Corrupts Athletics – We Must Bring Transnational Criminals to Justice “When similar concerns were raised in countries around the world, their legislative bodies acted to make match-fixing a specific criminal act to address the full scope of match-fixing behavior and give their judicial and law enforcement systems the clarity and tools needed to bring these transnational criminals to justice. Sport brings the world together, and we must fight to protect its integrity against the onslaught from criminals who exploit the vulnerable, target athletes for harassment, and corrupt the globe’s best traditions. The United States has one of the most vibrant sporting communities in the world, and it is imperative we support our athletes—from little league teams to collegiate stars to professional players.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases/fema-public-assistance-webinar,FEMA Public Assistance Webinar,2024-12-08,2024,2024-12,Republican,House,TN,Diana Harshbarger,H001086,harshbarger.house.gov,harshbarger,https://harshbarger.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Tuesday, December 10th, FEMA will be holding a webinar outlining how communities can use and benefit from public assistance through their cost-sharing assistance program. Local partners, non-profits, and community leaders are encouraged to join. FEMA’s Public Assistance Mitigation Cost Share Incentives Webinar Date: Tuesday, Dec. 10, 2024 Time: 2 p.m. – 3 p.m. EST Please click the link below to join the webinar: https://fema.zoomgov.com/j/1606110130?pwd=HYtnBCuaHrFAIqZd8iSKMlumdrEDYt.1 Webinar ID: 160 611 0130 Passcode: CSI",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/technology/blackburn-blumenthal-statement-on-new-x-negotiated-kosa-text,"Blackburn, Blumenthal Statement on New ‘X’ Negotiated KOSA Text",2024-12-07,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) released the following statement after X CEO Linda Yaccarino announced updated KOSA bill text to further safeguard freedom of speech for minors online. “Led by X, the new changes made to the Kids Online Safety Act strengthen the bill while safeguarding free speech online and ensuring it is not used to stifle expression,” said Senators Blackburn and Blumenthal. “These changes should eliminate once and for all the false narrative that this bill would be weaponized by unelected bureaucrats to censor Americans. We thank Elon and Linda for their bold leadership and commitment to protecting children online and for helping us get this bill across the finish line this Congress. We appreciate that this endorsement and revised text reflects their publicly stated goal of furthering free speech without fear of censorship. We reiterate X’s call to pass KOSA by the end of the year – it is clear that this legislation has overwhelming support from Congress.” BACKGROUND: You can view the revised bill text, including changes negotiated by X, here. These changes were made to further make clear that KOSA would not censor, limit, or remove any content from the internet, and it does not give the FTC or state AGs the power to bring lawsuits over content or speech, no matter who it is from. The bill passes First Amendment scrutiny because it is content neutral. RELATED: Blackburn Announces Growing Conservative Momentum for the Kids Online Safety Act Tennessee AG Leads 31 State Attorneys General in Urging Congress to Pass Blackburn’s Kids Online Safety Act",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://kustoff.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-kustoff-announces-congressional-app-challenge-winner-0,Congressman Kustoff Announces Congressional App Challenge Winner,2024-12-06,2024,2024-12,Republican,House,TN,David Kustoff,K000392,kustoff.house.gov,kustoff,https://kustoff.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman David Kustoff (R-TN) announced the 2024 Congressional App Challenge winner for Tennessee's Eighth Congressional District is Alex Barthel from St. George's Independent School in Shelby County. Alex created the app, Unbias, which uses artificial intelligence to identify and report potential biases in news and articles. ""Congratulations to Alex for winning this year's Congressional App Challenge,"" said Congressman Kustoff. ""Alex's app, Unbias, uses artificial intelligence to identify and report potential bias in news sources. I am always impressed to see West Tennessee's next generation create these innovative apps that will benefit our community. Thank you to all the students who submitted an app this year."" The Congressional App Challenge began in 2014 as an effort to promote Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM), and to encourage students to learn coding and computer science skills. Students in participating congressional districts compete against their peers by creating original software applications (""apps""). Winning apps are featured on the U.S. House of Representatives' website, the Congressional App Challenge website, and are displayed in a U.S. Capitol Building exhibit. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/immigration/blackburn-ossoff-introduce-bill-to-crack-down-on-fentanyl-trafficking-dangerous-counterfeits-and-imports-made-with-forced-labor,"Blackburn, Ossoff Introduce Bill to Crack Down on Fentanyl Trafficking, Dangerous Counterfeits, and Imports Made with Forced Labor",2024-12-06,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn) and Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.) introduced the Detection and Exclusion of Negligent, Illicit, and Extralegal Deliveries (DENIED) Act to crack down on fentanyl trafficking, protect Americans from unsafe counterfeits, and prevent bad actors from importing products made with forced labor into the United States by exploiting U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s (CBP) screening process: “Foreign criminals and shady businesses exploit vulnerabilities in our trade system to import products made with forced labor, slip counterfeit goods into U.S. markets, and smuggle drugs across the southern border,” said Senator Blackburn. “We need to strengthen efforts to prevent bad actors from importing unethical goods, and our DENIED Act would combat the fentanyl epidemic, protect U.S. intellectual property, and counter forced labor practices around the world.” “Senator Blackburn and I are introducing this bipartisan bill to strengthen enforcement against imports tainted by forced labor and illegal trade practices,” said Senator Ossoff. BACKGROUND: De minimis entry permits imports valued under $800 to enter the United States duty-free through a streamlined inspection process, allowing CBP to focus its resources on higher-risk shipments. While most businesses follow the rules, some have exploited the de minimis process to import products made with forced labor, especially from regions like Xinjiang, China. This allows them to bypass critical inspections and undercut companies that adhere to ethical standards. Earlier this year, Senator Blackburn sent a letter to U.S. Treasury Department Secretary Janet Yellen raising concerns about the Biden-Harris administration’s failure to fully enforce the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act (UFLPA). In addition, criminals are using the de minimis process to smuggle drugs like fentanyl and its precursor chemicals into the United States, avoiding detection by shipping small packages and fueling the ongoing opioid crisis. In 2023 alone, CBP seized over 27,000 pounds of fentanyl – enough to kill over 6 billion people – yet many de minimis shipments go uninspected, allowing dangerous drugs to slip through undetected. Counterfeit goods are also being imported through the de minimis process, stealing the innovative work of American businesses and endangering consumers with dangerous products like faulty electronics, fake pharmaceuticals, and substandard automotive parts. DENIED ACT: The DENIED Act would empower CBP to establish a new “Denied Parties List,” barring foreign companies that repeatedly aid or facilitate the import of forced-labor products, counterfeit goods, or illegal drugs from leveraging the de minimis process. This safeguard ensures that bad actors can no longer dodge inspections to flood the market with dangerous and unethical products. The Treasury Secretary would be required to publish the Denied Parties List every 90 days, exposing companies banned from duty-free entry and detailing the reasons for their ban. Entities added to the Denied Parties List would also be referred to the UFLPA Task Force, strengthening coordination among enforcement agencies and reaffirming America’s commitment to combating forced labor in China and around the world. CBP, in coordination with the United States Postal Service, would be authorized to enhance data collection on de minimis imports, providing law enforcement with the tools they need to better target and crack down on unauthorized imports. This legislation would also empower CBP to impose steep fines on violators, starting at $1,000 for the first offense and rising to $5,000 for repeat offenses, ensuring there are real consequences for breaking the law and deterring future abuses. ENDORSEMENTS: This legislation is endorsed by Shatterproof, the Uyghur Human Rights Project, the Campaign for Uyghurs, and the Citizen Power Initiatives for China. “Shatterproof, a national nonprofit leading the fight against our nation’s addiction crisis, is grateful to Senators Blackburn and Ossoff for introducing the DENIED Act,” said Kevin Roy, Chief Public Policy Officer of Shatterproof. “Fentanyl-related deaths demand immediate action to stop the flow of fentanyl and other illicit drugs into our country. This legislation enhances CBP’s capacity to combat illegal imports by closing smuggling loopholes and barring violators, including those trafficking fentanyl, from exploiting duty-free exemptions. Shatterproof calls on Congressional leadership to prioritize this critical issue.” “Companies profiting from Uyghur forced labor are now on notice: you will be barred from direct-shipping access to U.S. consumers. Uyghurs are deeply grateful to Senator Marsha Blackburn and Senator Jon Ossoff for this important bipartisan bill to stop complicity in the atrocities against our people,” said Omer Kanat, Executive Director, Uyghur Human Rights Project. “The proposed measures to establish a ‘Denied Parties List’ and combat forced labor and unethical practices are critical steps in ensuring accountability and protecting the integrity of global supply chains. CFU would be honored to provide an endorsement for this initiative. We believe this Act not only strengthens safeguards against forced labor but also underscores the United States’ commitment to upholding human rights and ethical business practices,” said Rushan Abbas, Executive Director of Campaign for Uyghurs. “I strongly endorse the DENIED Act authored by Senator Masha Blackburn (R, Tennessee) and Senator Jon Ossoff (D, Georgia). The Act is a crucial step toward safeguarding both human rights in China and American markets. By closing loopholes in the de minimis entry process, this bill ensures that importers who engage in unethical practices—especially the use of forced labor—cannot bypass critical inspections. The establishment of the Denied Parties List, paired with steep fines and accountability measures, sends a powerful message: America will not tolerate the exploitation of vulnerable populations or the undermining of ethical businesses. Strengthening our commitment to human dignity and a fair global trade system, the DENIED Act sets a good example of bi-partisan effort to help advance human rights in China while defending our American values and interests,” said Dr. Jianli (Doc) Yang, Founder and President, Citizen Power Initiatives for China.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/jobs-and-economy/senate-passes-blackburn-hickenlooper-music-tourism-bill,"Senate Passes Blackburn, Hickenlooper Music Tourism Bill",2024-12-06,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Yesterday, the U.S. Senate passed the bipartisan American Music Tourism Act introduced by U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.) to support and increase music tourism for both domestic and international visitors: “Tennesseans know a thing or two about the positive impact that music tourism has on the economy and culture,” said Senator Blackburn. “The Volunteer State is proud to be home to so many iconic musical landmarks for tourists to enjoy – from Graceland in Memphis to the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, Dollywood in Pigeon Forge, and the Birthplace of Country Music Museum in Bristol. This bipartisan legislation promotes music tourism’s fast-growing industry, and I’m pleased the Senate took action to ensure fans from all over the world can celebrate the rich history of music for generations to come.” “Colorado’s vibrant music scene attracts artists and fans from around the world,” said Senator Hickenlooper. “Our bipartisan bill will help our local music venues thrive and expand.” ENDORSEMENTS: This legislation is supported by the Recording Academy, the Nashville Songwriter’s Association International, the Recording Industry Association of America, Live Nation Entertainment, the National Independent Venue Association, Tennessee Department of Tourism Development, Tennessee Entertainment Commission, Memphis Tourism, Pigeon Forge Department of Tourism, the Overton Park Shell, Airbnb, Eventbrite, and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame & Museum. “The Recording Academy is pleased to support the American Music Tourism Act and applauds Senators Blackburn and Hickenlooper for their continued dedication to lifting up the music community. Music has long played an important role in our economy and culture. This bill will amplify the music community’s contributions to economic growth and increase understanding of music’s impact on the U.S. and the world,” said Todd Dupler, Chief Advocacy and Public Policy Officer of the Recording Academy. “The Nashville Songwriters Association International is glad to lend our support to the American Music Tourism Act. As owners of an iconic music venue, The Bluebird Café, we acutely understand the impact of music on tourism dollars. With the music tourism market expected to reach $11.3 billion in revenue by 2032, and since the United States is one of the main beneficiaries of music tourism, it is essential that the Commerce Department’s Assistant Secretary for Travel and Tourism identify and promote musical sites of significance,” said Bart Herbison, Executive Director of the Nashville Songwriter’s Association International. “From the historic Grand Ole Opry to the legendary Telluride Bluegrass Festival, America’s music story comes alive at iconic venues and landmarks all across the country. We applaud Senators Blackburn and Hickenlooper for introducing the American Music Tourism Act, which will encourage even more music fans to experience the rich legacy of American music firsthand,” said Mitch Glazier, Chairman & CEO of the Recording Industry Association of America. “In Nashville, Memphis, and countless other communities across the country, a vibrant live music scene is an economic magnet that draws fans from around the globe. The American Music Tourism Act is an important piece of legislation that will help ensure live music remains a pillar of American culture and tourism, and we’d like to thank the Senator for her leadership on this issue,” said Sally Williams, President of Nashville Music and Business Strategy for Live Nation Entertainment. “From rural communities to city centers, independent stages attract investment and visitors for the artists and professionals that put on shows and the restaurants, retail, and attractions around them. The American Music Tourism Act finally recognizes music tourism as a catalyst for economic development and ensures its growth is a national priority. We applaud Senators Marsha Blackburn and John Hickenlooper for aligning the nation’s tourism strategy with the venues and festivals across our country that the world travels to experience,” said Stephen Parker, Executive Director of the National Independent Venue Association. “As the proud home to world-renowned attractions like Graceland, Grand Ole Opry, Dollywood, and the Birthplace of Country Music Museum, Tennessee's tourism industry thrives on our rich musical heritage. The American Music Tourism Act reflects our agency’s dedication to preserving this legacy and bolstering our state’s global music appeal. By championing our diverse creative talent and attractions, we believe this legislation can bolster economic growth and draw visitors seeking authentic American music experiences,” said Mark Ezell, Commissioner of the Tennessee Department of Tourist Development. “For decades, Tennessee has maintained its reputation as a mecca for music tourism attracting both domestic and global audiences alike. Our State’s uniquely positioned musical legacy has become a valuable tool in shaping cultural pride, economic growth, and community development across all grand divisions. The American Music Tourism Act promotes and supports our distinctive destinations and music heritage, preserving what makes Tennessee a truly exceptional place to visit,” said Bob Raines, Executive Director of the Tennessee Entertainment Commission. “Music is Memphis’ primary travel motivator, as it brings in both domestic and international visitors year-round. Visitors from around the world choose Memphis as a vacation destination for our live music, musical attractions, as well as to see and learn about our talented musicians of the past, present and future. Tourism is currently a 6-billion-dollar industry for Memphis and Shelby County. The American Music Tourism Act will allow for the preservation of all areas of our music industry and will be essential to the sustainability and future of tourism,” said Kevin Kane, President and CEO of Memphis Tourism. “Music tourism is of vital importance to Tennessee, but specifically to Pigeon Forge. Last year, more than eight million people visited our destination, many of whom came in search of musical entertainment. In addition to a highly successfully musical theater community, we are especially proud that Dolly Parton, one of the world’s most celebrated musicians and prolific songwriters, and her Dollywood theme park give so many visitors reasons to visit time and time again. The Commerce Department’s Assistant Secretary for Travel and Tourism has a vital role in promoting and increasing tourism for both domestic and international visitors. On behalf of Pigeon Forge and other Tennessee destinations that rely on music-seeking visitors, I encourage the Assistant Secretary to expand these efforts through the American Music Tourism Act,” said Leon Downey, Executive Director of the Pigeon Forge Department of Tourism. “The historic Overton Park Shell of Memphis, Tennessee is thrilled to lend our support to the American Music Tourism Act. As stewards of our iconic venue which was home to Elvis Presley's first live performance in 1954, The Overton Park Shell acutely understands the impact of music on tourism dollars. Amplifying the work of cultural assets will have a ripple effect to the economic impact that these entities bring to our Country and the legacy of American music known worldwide,” said Natalie Wilson, Executive Director of the Overton Park Shell. “We’ve seen firsthand how concerts have become a growing tourist attraction, driving travel demand to regions around the world. That’s why we are proud to support the American Music Tourism Act, which helps promote domestic tourism in the US and amplifies the positive economic impact of Airbnb guests seeking music experiences across the country,” said Mike Signer, North America Policy Director Airbnb. “Eventbrite applauds Senators Blackburn and Hickenlooper for their American Music Tourism Act, bipartisan legislation consistent with Eventbrite’s commitment to live music and mission to bring the world together through shared experiences,” said Julia Hartz, Co-Founder, CEO, and Executive Chair Eventbrite. “The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame honors the artists whose music connects us all. We share stories of the people, events, and songs that shape our world through digital content, innovative exhibits, live music, engaging programs, and our annual Induction Ceremony, and have welcomed nearly 15 million visitors from all 50 states and around the world to our Museum in Cleveland, Ohio. We support the American Music Tourism Act to reinforce our music community’s massive economic and emotional impact on the U.S. and beyond,” said Greg Harris, President & CEO, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame & Museum. BACKGROUND: Music tourism – both the act of visiting sites important to the history of American music culture and the act of traveling for current concerts and music festivals – is a vital industry for American culture and an economic driver for our communities. Music tourism has emerged as a top travel trend, with the market forecasted to reach $11.3 billion in revenue by 2032. The United States, which boasts one of world’s largest music industries that generates over $43 billion in revenue each year, is one of the main beneficiaries of this international interest in music tourism. The Commerce Department’s Assistant Secretary for Travel and Tourism is uniquely positioned to identify and promote sites of musical significance. AMERICAN TOURISM ACT: Specifically, the American Music Tourism Act would: Leverage the existing framework within the Department of Commerce to highlight and promote music tourism in the United States. Require the Assistant Secretary to implement a plan to support and increase music tourism for both domestic and international visitors; and Require a report to Congress on the successes and vulnerabilities of the Assistant Secretary’s goals to increase travel and tourism.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/technology/icymi-in-the-hill-senators-ramp-up-pressure-on-house-to-pass-online-safety-privacy-package-in-lame-duck-session,"ICYMI in The Hill: Senators Ramp up Pressure on House to Pass Online Safety, Privacy Package in Lame-Duck Session",2024-12-06,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Earlier this week, U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) joined a bipartisan group of legislators urging House Republican Leaders to pass the Kids Online Safety and Privacy Act (KOSPA) package before the end of the year. The legislation to protect children from increasing harms caused by social media has languished in the House for months after overwhelmingly passing the Senate, 91-3, in July. Read more about the Senators’ push to pass this legislation before the end of the year below. Senators ramp up pressure on House to pass online safety, privacy package in lame-duck session Miranda Nazzaro The Hill A group of bipartisan senators pushed House Republican leadership on Wednesday to pass the Kids Online Safety and Privacy Act (KOSPA) before the end of the year as it remains stalled in the lower chamber. In a letter sent to House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) and Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.), six senators with the Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee asked the leaders to “put the well-being of our children ahead of tech companies and bring KOSPA to the House floor for a vote. The KOSPA package, which overwhelmingly passed the Senate in July, combines two measures, including the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA), which would create regulations for the kinds of features tech and social media companies offer kids online and aims to reduce the addictive nature and mental health impact of these platforms. The package also includes the Children and Teens’ Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA 2.0). If passed, the measure would update the original COPPA from 1998 and add data privacy measures including the ban of targeted advertising to teens and kids online. “We write today to state our support for protecting American children from the harms caused by social media and other online platforms,” the senators wrote. “While the internet and digital tools have helped kids connect with others and the world around them, these benefits have come at a profound cost—our children are experiencing emotional, mental, and physical harm from their use of digital platforms.” “Federal law protecting children’s privacy has not kept up with technology. Further, current law does not protect the online privacy of teens aged 13-16,” the letter added. Signatories on the letter included Commerce Committee Chair Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Ranking Member Ted Cruz (R-Texas), along with Sens. Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) — the coauthors of KOSA — and Sens. Bill Cassidy (R-La.) and Ed Markey (D-Mass.), the authors of COPPA 2.0. The pressure comes with just weeks to go in the lame-duck session. KOSA and COPPA advanced out of the House Energy and Commerce Committee in September, but House leadership has mostly sidestepped whether the bills will be brought to the floor before the end of the year. Members of both parties have expressed issues with the language of the Senate versions, for varied reasons. Johnson told Punchbowl News last month he likes the concept of KOSA, though the details of the Senate-passed version are “very problematic.” Meanwhile, some lawmakers were concerned with the language of KOSA’s “duty of care” provision. As written in the Senate version, the provision would require platforms to design and implement features for minors to prevent and reduce harm, such as those caused by content promoting suicide and eating disorders. The House version that advanced out of committee last month included amendments changing this provision. The letter follows a series of other efforts from senators, namely Blackburn to push KOSA and COPPA past the finish line. The campaigns have included meetings between tech advocacy groups and members, along with parents of children who either died or were seriously harmed because of social media. The Hill reached out to Johnson and Scalise’s offices for comment. RELATED:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cohen-presides-hearing-exposing-belarusian-role-supporting,Congressman Cohen Presides at a Hearing Exposing Belarusian Role Supporting Russia in its War with Ukraine,2024-12-05,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,TN,Steve Cohen,C001068,cohen.house.gov,cohen,https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9), the House Ranking Member of the Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe, also known as the Helsinki Commission, today presided at a hearing on “The Role of Belarus in Russia’s Crimes.” Ranking Member Cohen focused his questions to hearing witnesses on Belarus’ taking of Ukrainian children and the fate of political prisoners held by the regime. Ranking Member Cohen also released the following statement: “In my position as the Organization on Security and Cooperation in Europe Parliamentary Assembly’s Special Representative on political prisoners, I’ve heard a lot about—and frequently spoken out against—Lukashenka’s mass imprisonment of Belarusians and threats against Belarus’ democratic leaders and activists abroad. “Since the start of Putin’s war in Ukraine, Belarus has effectively operated as an extension of Russia. Lukashenko bears responsibility for cooperating with Russia in its war efforts, and he cannot be allowed to fly under the radar. Especially disturbing is Belarus’ role in taking vulnerable Ukrainian children and brainwashing and militarizing them. “Independent human rights organizations have reported that more than 2,400 Ukrainian children have been sent to ‘recreation camps’ in Belarus, where they are subjected to pro-Russian and anti-Ukrainian indoctrination and military training. We must help prevent Belarus from escaping culpability and highlight the threats posed by Putin using the territory and resources of Belarus to help wage war on Ukrainians and threaten the rest of Europe. “I also want to spotlight political prisoners in Belarus. Lukashenko has over 1,300 political prisoners including opposition leaders, journalists and activists. Ales Bialiatski, Maria Kalesnikava, and many others are experiencing heath issues that cannot be properly addressed in prison. They should be released immediately along with any other political prisoners with dire health conditions. Time is of the essence. “We can’t forget Belarus’ cooperation in war crimes, and I think our witnesses today will make it very clear where the responsibilities lie and how we can defend freedom from these dictators.” Witnesses at today’s hearing were: Matvei Kupreichyk, Public Representative, BELPOL; Gabrielius Landsbergis, Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs, Republic of Lithuania; and Kateryna Rashevska, Legal Expert, Regional Center for Human Rights # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cohens-effort-make-public-report-matt-gaetz-referred-ethics,Congressman Cohen’s Effort to Make Public the Report on Matt Gaetz is Referred to the Ethics Committee,2024-12-05,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,TN,Steve Cohen,C001068,cohen.house.gov,cohen,https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON -- Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9), a senior member of the Judiciary Committee and a former member of the Committee on Ethics, today offered a privileged resolution continuing his effort to publicly release the Ethics Committee’s report of alleged misconduct by former Florida Congressman Matt Gaetz. The measure was referred to the Ethics Committee in a parliamentary maneuver designed to prevent the release. Congressman Cohen released the following statement: “I brought this resolution to the floor today as an act of transparency. Many Americans view our institutions and government as protecting the powerful at the expense of the public. We need to restore trust. “I urge all my colleagues to support release of the Ethics Committee report to inform the public about the potential misconduct of a former – and most likely future – officeholder; let the committee speak for itself; ensure a strong accountability system in Congress; and educate Congress and the public about our ethical obligations. “Matt Gaetz, a former member of this body, faced some of the most serious allegations ever investigated by our Ethics Committee. There were the salacious allegations about sex and drugs. But there were also very serious allegations about public corruption and the abuse of Gaetz’s office. That second category of allegations goes to the very integrity of this body and our work on behalf of the American people. We are keepers of the public trust and must be, like Caesar’s wife, above reproach. “Gaetz also made a point of calling the Ethics investigation a ‘witch hunt,’ showing disrespect, and a causing a breach of the expected decorum a Member should show for this House. Only release of the report will establish this was not a witch hunt. “Some members of Congress retire into the sunset, but Matt Gaetz sought an even more powerful position, representing all citizens and upholding our Constitution and laws -- and there is every reason to believe he will be in the next Administration, probably in a position that does not require Senate confirmation. He is still advising President-elect Trump. “It is imperative that we know his character and if he unethically and unlawfully abused his public office. “I will continue to seek the release of the Ethics report and hope the Committee sees the wisdom of doing so without further intervention.” See the resolution here. # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressmen-cohen-and-mcclintock-condemn-iranian-death-sentences,Congressmen Cohen and McClintock Condemn Iranian Death Sentences for Political Prisoners,2024-12-05,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,TN,Steve Cohen,C001068,cohen.house.gov,cohen,https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Congressmen Steve Cohen (TN-9) and Tom McClintock (CA-5), the Co-Chairmen of the Iran Human Rights and Democracy Caucus, today released the following statement: “As the co-chairs of the Congressional Iran Human Rights and Democracy Caucus, we strongly condemn the death sentences imposed on six Iranian political prisoners for their support of the organized Iranian resistance, MEK/PMOI, and the Iranian protesters. This escalating crackdown on dissent by the Iranian regime is a grave violation of human rights and comes amid a rise in death sentences in recent weeks. We call on the regime to halt these executions immediately and uphold justice and human dignity. Stand with Abolhassan Montazer, Pouya Ghobadi, Vahid Bani-Amrian, Babak Alipour, Ali Akbar Daneshvarkar, and Mohammad Taghavi. Their lives depend on it.” # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/health-care/blackburn-kelly-introduce-bill-to-increase-primary-care-access-and-lower-costs-for-medicaid-recipients-in-rural-communities,"Blackburn, Kelly Introduce Bill to Increase Primary Care Access and Lower Costs for Medicaid Recipients in Rural Communities",2024-12-05,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn) and Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.) introduced the Medicaid Primary Care Improvement Act to grant state Medicaid programs the authority to explore and implement direct primary care arrangements for Medicaid beneficiaries. Key features of the Direct Primary Care (DPC) model include predictable costs, improved access, reduced administrative burden, and lower costs. “Rural residents often experience worse health outcomes and higher hospital utilization compared to urban populations, and 78 of Tennessee’s 95 counties are rural – making it extremely important to improve primary care access for Medicaid recipients in these communities,” said Senator Blackburn. “The Medicaid Primary Care Improvement Act would address disproportionate health care coverage in rural areas by providing states with greater flexibility to address primary care challenges within Medicaid populations.” “Access to quality primary care is essential for the health and well-being of Arizonans,” said Senator Kelly. “By expanding care options for patients, this bill will allow providers to meaningfully address health needs and improve preventive care.” BACKGROUND: Primary care providers play a critical role in preventing serious health conditions, reducing emergency room utilization, improving patient outcomes, and potentially lowering overall healthcare costs. Studies consistently show that higher continuity of primary care, where patients maintain a long-term relationship with their primary care physician, leads to fewer hospital admissions. However, Medicaid populations face unique challenges that exacerbate costs and strain provider capacity, including high emergency room utilization, disproportionate coverage in rural areas, and poorer outcomes in rural communities. Access to primary care is especially limited in rural, low-income areas. The patient-to-physician ratio in rural areas is just 39.8 physicians per 100,000 people, compared to 53.3 per 100,000 in urban areas. The United States is projected to face a shortage of up to 55,200 primary care physicians by 2032. Expanding access to DPC can help address these workforce and cost challenges by empowering state Medicaid programs to innovate and improve care delivery. DPC is an innovative health care delivery model that provides patients with unrestricted access to primary care services in exchange for a flat, predictable monthly fee. Unlike traditional fee-for-service models, DPC eliminates third-party billing for most primary care services, allowing physicians to focus on patient care rather than administrative requirements. While DPC practices are primarily used by privately insured or self-pay patients, there is growing interest in adapting the model for Medicaid beneficiaries to improve access and outcomes, particularly in underserved areas. MEDICAID PRIMARY CARE ENHANCEMENT ACT: The Medicaid Primary Care Improvement Act would clarify that state Medicaid programs have the authority to explore and implement direct primary care (DPC) arrangements for Medicaid beneficiaries. The DPC model is a healthcare delivery approach in which patients pay a flat, monthly fee for access to primary care services, enabling predictable costs and potentially improving care coordination and outcomes. By codifying this authority, the bill seeks to provide states with greater flexibility to address primary care access challenges within Medicaid populations. Click herefor bill text.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cohen-announces-936722-tipton-county-schools,"Congressman Cohen Announces $936,722 to Tipton County Schools",2024-12-04,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,TN,Steve Cohen,C001068,cohen.house.gov,cohen,https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9) today announced that the Tipton County School District will receive $936,722 from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Rural Development Program for 14 video conferencing units, software and training. Instructors will deliver expanded educational opportunities to an estimated 10,638 Tipton County residents, according to the USDA. Congressman Cohen made the following statement: “I am pleased to see this substantial investment in the student of rural Tipton County. Modern education often requires access to the high technologies absent in many rural areas. This will improve education in Tipton County and enhance the learning of its students.” Congressman Cohen represents much of Tipton County after a 2022 redistricting by the state legislature. # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/former-labor-secretary-robert-reich-endorses-congressman-cohens,Former Labor Secretary Robert Reich Endorses Congressman Cohen’s Constitutional Amendment to Limit the Presidential Pardon Power,2024-12-04,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,TN,Steve Cohen,C001068,cohen.house.gov,cohen,https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9), a senior member of the Judiciary Committee long concerned about the potential abuse of the presidential pardon power, was pleased to see his proposed Constitutional Amendment to limit the pardon power was endorsed by former Clinton Administration Labor Secretary Robert Reich. Reich called attention to the proposed amendment in a Substack article on Tuesday after President Biden pardoned his son Hunter. Congressman Cohen made the following statement: “I appreciate Mr. Reich’s endorsement. As he noted, my Constitutional Amendment would explicitly prohibit a self-pardon, pardons of family members, administration officials, and campaign employees. It would also bar the President from issuing pardons to those whose crimes were committed to further a direct and significant personal interest of the President or others close to him or her, and those whose crimes were committed at the direction of, or in coordination with, the President. Finally, the amendment also clarifies that no pardon issued for a corrupt purpose – past, present, or future – is valid.” Congressman Cohen noted that he has introduced versions of his Constitutional Amendment in successive Congresses since October 2017. He has worked to limit the pardon power since 1977 when he served as Vice President of the Tennessee Constitutional Convention during the tenure of a Democratic governor. # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/technology/news-bipartisan-senate-leaders-urge-house-gop-to-stand-up-to-tech-companies-protect-children-from-social-media-harms-pass-kids-online-privacy-legislation-before-end-of-year,"NEWS: Bipartisan Senate Leaders Urge House GOP to Stand Up to Tech Companies, Protect Children From Social Media Harms & Pass Kids Online Privacy Legislation Before End of Year",2024-12-04,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senate Commerce Committee Chair Sen. Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.) and Ranking Member Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), and Sens. Edward Markey (D-Mass.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) and Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), authors of bipartisan bills to protect children online, wrote to House Republican Leaders urging them to pass the Kids Online Safety and Privacy Act (KOSPA) package before the end of the year. The legislation to protect children from increasing harms caused by social media has languished in the House for months after overwhelmingly passing the Senate, 91-3, in July. “While the internet and digital tools have helped kids connect with others and the world around them, these benefits have come at a profound cost—our children are experiencing emotional, mental, and physical harm from their use of digital platforms,” the senators wrote in a letter to House Speaker Mike Johnson and Majority Leader Steve Scalise. “Studies show the more time youth spend on social media, the greater the risk they will suffer from poor mental health, disordered eating, and diminished sleep quality. These risks are multiplied because social media platforms are designed to be addictive, so that kids will spend more time online.” The KOSPA package combines two key pieces of legislation. The first is the Markey-Cassidy Children and Teens’ Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA 2.0), which updates the original COPPA passed in 1998. This legislation bans online companies from collecting personal information from users under 17 years old without their consent and creates an eraser button to eliminate personal information online. The second component is the Blumenthal-Blackburn Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA), which provides children and parents with the tools, safeguards and transparency to protect against online harms, establishes a duty of care for online platforms and requires the most protective settings for kids by default. “KOSPA proves that Congress can set aside politics and act decisively when our children are at stake,” the letter continued. “We ask that you join the 91 United States Senators who put the well-being of our children ahead of tech companies and bring KOSPA to the House floor for a vote.” Read the letter here and below: Dear Speaker Johnson and Leader Scalise: We write today to state our support for protecting American children from the harms caused by social media and other online platforms. While the internet and digital tools have helped kids connect with others and the world around them, these benefits have come at a profound cost—our children are experiencing emotional, mental, and physical harm from their use of digital platforms. These are not isolated harms. According to the U.S. Surgeon General, the use of social media among American youth is pervasive, with up to 95 percent of kids aged 13-17 reporting that they use social media, and more than one-third of them use it constantly. Nearly 40 percent of kids aged 8-12 use social media, even though most platforms purportedly do not allow children under 13 to create an account. Studies show the more time youth spend on social media, the greater the risk they will suffer from poor mental health, disordered eating, and diminished sleep quality. The use of targeted advertising results in kids being shown ads for alcohol, tobacco, diet pills, or gambling sites. These risks are multiplied because social media platforms are designed to be addictive, so that kids will spend more time online. Federal law protecting children’s privacy has not kept up with technology. Further, current law does not protect the online privacy of teens aged 13-16. The “Kids Online Safety and Privacy Act” (“KOSPA”) will give parents and kids more tools to avoid harm. And the law will provide a long overdue update to the current Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act. The Senate passed KOSPA by an overwhelming, bipartisan vote of 91-3. KOSPA proves that Congress can set aside politics and act decisively when our children are at stake. We ask that you join the 91 United States Senators who put the well-being of our children ahead of tech companies and bring KOSPA to the House floor for a vote. Sincerely, Senator Maria Cantwell Senator Ted Cruz Senator Edward Markey Senator Bill Cassidy Senator Richard Blumenthal Senator Marsha Blackburn",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cohen-reintroduces-privileged-resolution-release-ethics,Congressman Cohen Reintroduces Privileged Resolution for Release of Ethics Records on Matt Gaetz,2024-12-03,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,TN,Steve Cohen,C001068,cohen.house.gov,cohen,https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9), a senior member of the Judiciary Committee and a former member of the Committee on Ethics, today reoffered a privileged resolution continuing his effort to release the Ethics Committee’s report of alleged misconduct by former Florida Congressman Matt Gaetz. He will speak on the measure and notice it on the floor this evening. Congressman Cohen said: “Matt Gaetz faces some of the most serious and troubling allegations the Ethics Committee has ever investigated. By resigning, Gaetz thought the report would not be released. The accused should not be permitted to determine whether the Ethics Committee report will be released. Much staff time and expense has gone into the investigation. The report would apparently expose not just the salacious allegations – the sex and drugs – but also the misuse of his office, the conversion of campaign funds for personal use and other misconduct. Release of the report would educate members of Congress as to what is beyond acceptable. Justice Louis Brandeis told us more than 100 years ago that ‘sunlight is the best disinfectant.’ There must be something in the report or Gaetz would not have resigned. “Gaetz also made a point of calling the Ethics investigation a ‘witch hunt,’ deriding the Committee, an offense against the decorum of the House that should not go unanswered. Only release of the report will establish this was no witch hunt. “We shouldn’t allow a person to escape consequences by resigning a day before a report is to be released, particularly if we expect to see that person assume a position of trust in the incoming Administration.” The resolution reads in part: That “on April 9, 2021, the Committee on Ethics initiated a review of allegations that Representative Gaetz may have ‘engaged in sexual misconduct and/or illicit drug use, shared inappropriate images or videos on the House floor, misused state identification records, converted campaign funds to personal use, and/or accepted a bribe, improper gratuity, or impermissible gift, in violation of House Rules, laws, or other standards of conduct’ in violation of Federal law and the Rules of the House.” The resolution states the Ethics Committee shall “publicly release the Committee’s report, including any associated findings, recommendations, and proposed disciplinary actions, as discussed by the Committee on November 20, 2024, regarding the alleged violations of the House of the Code of Conduct or of a law, rule, regulation, or other standard of conduct by Matthew Louis Gaetz II while serving as a Member of the House of Representatives.” See the entire resolution here. # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issues/pro-life/blackburn-smith-lead-over-100-members-of-congress-in-asking-gao-to-investigate-how-much-federal-funding-has-been-awarded-to-abortion-providers,"Blackburn, Smith Lead Over 100 Members of Congress in Asking GAO to Investigate How Much Federal Funding Has Been Awarded to Abortion Providers",2024-12-03,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – In a bicameral letter led by U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Representatives Chris Smith (R-N.J.), Robert Aderholt (R-Ala.), and Claudia Tenney (R-N.Y.), 112 Members of Congress asked the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to investigate and report on the amount of federal funding that has been awarded to abortion providers—including Planned Parenthood—over the past three years: “We are writing to request updated information on federal funding for Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs), Planned Parenthood Federation of America, International Planned Parenthood Federation, MSI Reproductive Choices, and four domestic abortion providers,” the lawmakers wrote. “Proper oversight of public funds and programs is crucial for determining the value of the goods and services provided to and funded by American taxpayers. The information sought in this inquiry is instrumental for policymakers and the public alike,” the lawmakers continued. “It is our hope that this report will provide greater insight as Congress considers funding levels and provides increased transparency and openness for our constituencies and the general public.” BACKGROUND: The lawmakers noted the GAO has prepared several congressionally requested reports on federal funding for these organizations over the years. According to its most recent report, the abortion industry had siphoned off nearly $2 billion federal taxpayer between fiscal years 2019-2021. CO-SIGNERS: Among the 81 House Members and 31 Senators who signed the letter are the top three leaders of the new Congress: House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.), Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.), and House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/concerns-about-hunter-bidens-pardon-ring-hollow-republicans-sidelined,Concerns about Hunter Biden’s Pardon Ring Hollow as Republicans Sidelined Congressman Cohen’s Constitutional Amendment that Would Have Limited Pardons,2024-12-02,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,TN,Steve Cohen,C001068,cohen.house.gov,cohen,https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"MEMPHIS – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9), a senior member of the Judiciary Committee long concerned about the potential abuse of the presidential pardon power who has sought to amend the Constitution to protect against perceived conflicts of interest, today released the following statement: “President Biden has lost one son and would do anything he could for his remaining son. I’m in no way surprised at this pardon since the father-son bond is so strong. It’s also clear that Hunter Biden was targeted because he was the son of the President and held to account in ways similarly situated people would not have been. The pardon power is supposed to be a safety valve against injustice, and I understand why President Biden thought it appropriate in this instance. “But to all those who find this pardon distasteful, I encourage you to cosponsor and support the constitutional amendment I have introduced in the last several Congresses to reform the pardon power. The measure would eliminate pardons for the President’s self, the President’s family, Administration officials and campaign staff, and those who commit crimes on behalf of, for the benefit of, or at the direction of the President -- all instances with inescapable perceptions of conflicts of interest. The amendment also clarifies that no pardon issued for a corrupt purpose – past, present, or future – is valid. The measure has never received a Republican cosponsor, though, with their new recognition of the issue, I sincerely hope that will change.” # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cohen-announces-12-million-grants-uthsc,Congressman Cohen Announces $1.2 Million in Grants to UTHSC,2024-12-02,2024,2024-12,Democrat,House,TN,Steve Cohen,C001068,cohen.house.gov,cohen,https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"MEMPHIS – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9) today announced that the University of Tennessee Health Science Center (UTHSC) will receive two grants from tow National Institutes of Health totaling $1,213,557. The first, for $754,446, is from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases for research on the microbiome. The second, for $459,111, is from the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, for research on a “Novel Pharmacological Approach to Stroke Neuroprotection.” Congressman Cohen made the following statement: “I am always pleased to see our National Institutes of Health investing in life-saving research at our medical school. This funding will lead to important insights and help future doctors address illness.” # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/12/issue/technology/blackburn-fights-to-protect-seniors-from-skyrocketing-artificial-intelligence-scams,Blackburn Fights to Protect Seniors from Skyrocketing Artificial Intelligence Scams,2024-12-02,2024,2024-12,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. – Ahead of the holiday season, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), ranking member of the Senate Subcommittee on Consumer Protection, issued a warning to seniors at risk of harmful cyber-attacks during a hearing on protecting consumers from artificial intelligence (AI) enabled fraud and scams: Click hereto watch the full hearing and here to download Senator Blackburn’s remarks. Senior Citizens Are Targeted Most Frequently by AI Scams “Older Americans are the ones who have been hit most frequently with this, as an emerging threat. Now, the fraudsters that are utilizing AI to deceive consumers have gotten crafty when it comes to creating these highly personalized and convincing attacks. What is surprising to a lot of people is the fact that they are doing this at scale… These attacks have become very realistic. The spear phishing emails that really use a lot of this, make it appear that it's coming from a trusted source. And adding to this, the chat box, which make it appear that you are having an actual real-time conversation with someone, is very disarming… The use of these tools by the scammers are becoming more prevalent, they're becoming more precise, more widespread, and harder to attack.” Artificial Intelligence Scams Are Putting Tennesseans at Risk “In Tennessee, I say we've got the good, bad, and ugly relationship with AI. A lot of our manufacturers, people that are working in healthcare, predictive diagnoses, disease analysis, logistics, they are utilizing AI every day, to achieve efficiencies… The ugly is really what is happening to people with these scams, and with these frauds, and especially when it comes to senior citizens… The FTC with the Consumer Sentinel Network Data Book listed that scams increased a billion dollars over the last 12 months to $10 billion. This is what it's costing… We know AI is what is driving a lot of this. It is a technology that is advancing so incredibly fast, and of course legislation never keeps pace with technology.” Blackburn Says Congress Must Advance Legislation to Protect Citizens in the Virtual Space and Strengthen Privacy “Consumers need to be armed with knowledge about what is happening here and… we know that it is also going to require that we move forward with having an actual online privacy standard, which we've never passed… It is going to require that we take those actions, [and] we're really thrilled to have you all before us today. It helps to inform not only our committee, our subcommittee, informs our colleagues, and builds into the record for the need to move forward on legislation that will enhance the privacy, and help to protect our citizens in the virtual space.” RELATED: Blackburn, Cantwell, Heinrich Introduce Legislation to Combat AI Deepfakes & Put Journalists, Artists & Songwriters Back in Control of Their Content Blackburn, Coons, Tillis, Klobuchar Announce Draft of Bill to Protect Voice and Likeness of Individuals from AI-Generated Replicas",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:13:55Z https://johnrose.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-rose-defends-tennessee-tile-manufacturing-jobs-letter-secretary-commerce,Rep. Rose Defends Tennessee Tile Manufacturing Jobs in Letter to Secretary of Commerce,2024-11-27,2024,2024-11,Republican,House,TN,John W. Rose,R000612,johnrose.house.gov,johnrose,https://johnrose.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.—Today, U.S. Representative John Rose (TN-06) led a letter to Secretary Gina Raimondo urging the Department of Commerce to finalize robust tariffs on Indian ceramic tile imports. The tile manufacturing industry, which has a direct presence in the Upper Cumberland, has been negatively impacted by the unfair and uncompetitive trade practices of Indian tile exporters, threatening good-paying manufacturing jobs in Tennessee. The letter comes after the U.S. Department of Commerce announced in May the initiation of antidumping and countervailing duty investigations on ceramic tile from India. Recently, Commerce published its primary determination in the countervailing duty investigation, which the signers argue should be reevaluated and revised. The antidumping duty investigation preliminary determination is expected in late November. The letter says, “As the Department of Commerce continues its investigations, we urge the Department to properly assess the data and finalize robust duties on Indian ceramic tile imports. In order to solidify and stabilize domestic manufacturing, we must ensure American manufacturers have the upper hand in the market and prioritize their needs above all others.” U.S. Rep. Rose released the following statement: “Tennessee jobs are at risk due to India’s unfair and uncompetitive trade practices in the ceramic tile market,” said Rep. Rose. “Tennessee’s manufacturers deserve a fair shake on the world stage, and India’s underhanded subsidization and dumping of ceramic tile is upending the domestic market and hemming in American manufacturers. The Department of Commerce should use the tools at its disposal to aggressively counteract these nefarious trade practices to protect Tennessee jobs and domestic manufacturing.” Read the full letter below and here: Dear Secretary Raimondo: On May 10, 2024, the U.S. Department of Commerce (Commerce), through the International Trade Administration, announced the initiation of antidumping and countervailing duty investigations on ceramic tile from India. As you are aware, Commerce published its preliminary determination in the countervailing duty investigation on September 24, 2024. The Department announced its preliminary decision in the antidumping investigation on November 22, 2024. In its preliminary countervailing duty determination, the Department determined Win-Tel Ceramics Private Limited receives a 3.05 percent subsidy, Antiqua Minerals receives a 3.15 percent subsidy, and all other exporters receive a 3.08 percent subsidy on Indian ceramic tile imports to the U.S. However, it is clear these determinations should be reevaluated and revised to accurately portray the subsidization of products in the U.S. market. We understand the Department, oddly, decided to “penalize” the Indian Government’s lack of cooperation in Commerce’s inquiry into the provision of subsidized natural gas by adopting an inference that inadvertently benefited the Indian exporters and eliminated any natural gas tariff. The United Nations (UN) trade data utilized by Commerce was not comprehensive and failed to identify the ongoing natural gas subsidization for Indian tile production. Therefore, we urge the Department of Commerce to thoroughly examine petitioners' comments and continue diligent antidumping and countervailing duty investigations of India-produced ceramic tiles before the nonextended final determination deadline on February 5, 2025. Over the past decade, India’s tile sales in the U.S. increased from 344,000 square feet in 2013 to approximately 405 million square feet by the end of 2023. In April 2024, U.S. ceramic tile manufacturers sounded the alarm on Indian ceramic tile flooding the U.S. market and requested the imposition of an antidumping and countervailing duty. The industry estimated reasonable tariffs between 408 percent and 828 percent would offset India's ongoing unfair advantages. However, Commerce’s preliminary determination in the anti-subsidy investigation failed to fully and adequately examine important issues, including natural gas subsidies and the undisclosed affiliations of Indian producers. Meanwhile, Domestic manufacturers continue struggling against cheaper imports, losing their market footprint. We trust the Department will devote sufficient attention to Indian dumping prior to its final determination. From 2022 – 2023, the volume of tile imported from India increased by 42.6 percent to over 404 million square feet, and India comprised 20.3 percent of the total tile imports to the U.S. by the end of 2023. Moreover, between 2021 – 2023, the value of Indian tile imports increased significantly by more than $70 million. Since 2022, India has handily driven down imports from Italy, Spain, Brazil, and Mexico by hefty margins and has taken control of tile importers in the U.S. Between 2013 and 2018, China accounted for 29 to 32 percent of ceramic import value in the U.S. Therefore, on June 1, 2020, the U.S. took action and imposed a definitive anti-dumping duty on ceramic tile from China, ranging from 229.04 to 356.02 percent. As a result, Chinese tile imports dropped to 0.4 percent in 2020 and 0.1 percent in 2021 of the total U.S. title imports. India has bolstered itself as the dumping frontrunner and should be confronted with the same aggressive response to ensure stability and prosperity for American tile manufacturers. As the Department of Commerce continues its investigations, we urge the Department to properly assess the data and finalize robust duties on Indian ceramic tile imports. In order to solidify and stabilize domestic manufacturing, we must ensure American manufacturers have the upper hand in the market and prioritize their needs above all others. Thank you for your consideration, and we look forward to engaging with you on this issue. The letter was co-signed by U.S. Representative Tim Burchett (TN-02). Background: Tennessee’s Sixth Congressional District is home to multiple successful tile manufacturing companies: StonePeak Ceramics and Crossville Tile in Crossville, TN, Portobello America in Baxter, TN, and Colorobbia, USA in Cookeville, TN. While StonePeak is not headquartered in Tennessee, the company’s manufacturing division operates adjacent to Crossville Tile. Over the past decade, Indian tile sales to the U.S. skyrocketed from just over 340 thousand square feet to approximately 405 million square feet. In April 2024, U.S. ceramic tile manufacturers sounded the alarm and requested the imposition of antidumping and countervailing duties on Indian tile. Domestic tile manufacturers are all too familiar with the dumping of foreign tile into the U.S. market. Between 2013 and 2018, China accounted for over 30 percent of ceramic tile import value. However, the U.S. took action to suppress the bloat of Chinese tile imports by imposing a definitive antidumping duty.",1,2026-06-27T20:01:11Z,2026-06-27T22:32:33Z https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases/chairman-fleischmann-applauds-approval-of-hermes-2-reactors-construction-in-oak-ridge,Chairman Fleischmann Applauds Approval of Hermes 2 Reactors Construction in Oak Ridge,2024-11-25,2024,2024-11,Republican,House,TN,"Charles J. ""Chuck"" Fleischmann",F000459,fleischmann.house.gov,fleischmann,https://fleischmann.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"“I congratulate Kairos Power on their approval to build Hermes 2 at Oak Ridge’s Heritage Industrial Park. I also congratulate the NRC for their efficient approval of the construction permits to make this milestone for new nuclear a reality. The construction of two Gen IV advanced molten salt-cooled reactors, the first to produce electricity anywhere in the United States, is a major step towards expanding clean, reliable, affordable, and abundant nuclear power nationwide and creating America’s New Nuclear Future.” “Also, importantly, the Hermes 2 reactors are being built on land in Oak Ridge that was previously contaminated during the Manhattan Project and Cold War and has been expertly and thoroughly cleaned by the Department of Energy-Environmental Management and United Cleanup Oak Ridge (UCOR), an initiative I have led in my role as Chairman of Energy and Water Appropriations. This land was previously unusable due to legacy Manhattan Project and Cold War-era weapons efforts back when our engineers and scientists were still learning and unlocking the best practices of nuclear manufacturing, but it is now free of contamination and the home to a new generation of civil nuclear technologies and manufacturing that will grow our economy and protect our environmental heritage.”",1,2026-06-27T20:01:11Z,2026-06-27T22:32:33Z https://johnrose.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-rose-leads-letter-sec-chair-gensler,Rep. Rose Leads Letter to SEC Chair Gensler,2024-11-15,2024,2024-11,Republican,House,TN,John W. Rose,R000612,johnrose.house.gov,johnrose,https://johnrose.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"Washington, D.C.—Today, U.S. Representative John Rose (TN-06), the Vice Chairman of the House Financial Services Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee, led a letter to SEC Chair Gary Gensler expressing concerns regarding Prometheum Capital’s “soft-launch” of custody services for Etherum. Representative Rose, who is a Member of both the House Committee on Agriculture Digital Assets Subcommittee and the House Committee on Financial Services Digital Assets Subcommittee, has consistently criticized the SEC and Chairman Gensler’s regulation-by-enforcement approach towards digital assets that have led to widespread confusion amongst industry participants. In the letter, the signers say that “Prometheum’s statements and actions with respect to ETH are misleading and have already caused confusion in the marketplace.” Prometheum has previously garnered the attention of Members of the House Financial Services Committee members for its serious national security and data privacy concerns. U.S. Rep. Rose released the following statement: “Players in the digital assets space deserve certainty from their regulators,” said Rep. Rose. “Yet under Chair Gensler they’ve only received chaos and confusion. I hope while Chair Gensler is cleaning out his office, he can heed our concerns seriously and maybe deliver some real guidance on his way out the door.” Read the full letter here: “We write to express our continued concerns regarding Prometheum Capital’s (“Prometheum”) May 2024 “soft-launch” of custody services for Ethereum, and its stated intention to offer custodial services for Ethereum’s token, Ether (ETH). As highlighted during the House Committee on Financial Services hearing in September, a special purpose broker-dealer (“SPBD”) registered with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (“FINRA”) is not permitted to custody or facilitate trading in digital assets that the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) or a court has not determined to be securities, including those sold as part of investment contracts. “As you know, the SEC effectively acknowledged that ETH is not a security when, in July 2024, it formally approved a number of Ethereum spot exchange-traded funds (ETFs). In addition, the SEC amended its complaint against Binance to clarify that the term “crypto asset securities” does not apply to the digital assets themselves, and instead applies only to how a digital asset is sold. Such a determination has never been made by the SEC or a court with respect to the sales of ETH. Finally, we note that the SEC recently entered into a settlement with eToro, pursuant to which the company has been permitted by the SEC to continue to offer Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, and ETH on its platform. “Prometheum, however, has publicly stated that ETH is a security, and that it intends to offer custodial services to retail investors. Following previous letters from Members of Congress to seek clarification on the SPBD requirements, it continues to be unclear to us how, as a SPBD approved by FINRA to custody securities only, Prometheum can custody ETH in compliance with SEC and FINRA rules, and why the SEC and FINRA continue to allow Prometheum to hold ETH out to the public as a security. As Chair Gensler acknowledged during his testimony before the Committee, SPBDs “are not allowed to custody non-securities,” yet that is precisely what Prometheum has done when it soft-launched its custodial services for ETH. “As Republicans on the House Financial Services Committee and House Committee on Agriculture have emphasized on numerous occasions, Prometheum’s statements and actions with respect to ETH are misleading and have already caused confusion in the marketplace. Commodities Futures Trading Commission (“CFTC”) Chairman Rostin Benham has correctly pointed out that Prometheum’s actions have risked adding to the already considerable confusion market participants face when determining whether and how to comply with SEC and CFTC rules. By allowing Prometheum to continue to falsely state or suggest that ETH is a security or has been sold as part of an investment contract and can be custodied by a registered SPBD, the SEC and FINRA are complicit in perpetuating confusion and uncertainty in the marketplace, which ultimately harms market participants and consumers. “The SEC’s and FINRA’s silence are irresponsible and continues to raise troubling questions as it relates to the SPBD requirements and process as well as the SEC’s and FINRA’s ability to oversee broker-dealers and ensure the market’s integrity.” The letter was signed by Reps. French Hill (AR-02), Dusty Johnson (SD-AL), William Timmons (SC-04) and Mike Flood (NE-01). Background: Prometheum is the first digital assets trading platform to receive a Special Purpose Broker Dealer license from the Securities and Exchange Commission, allowing for trading digital asset securities. Prometheum announced in early 2024 that it would offer Ethereum on its platform to retail investors, publicly claiming it is a security. Prometheum’s decision to offer Ethereum as a security does not align with what the SEC has indicated, since it has said Ethereum should be treated as a commodity. Additionally, the license granted to Prometheum only allows it to offer securities and not commodities. Earlier this year during a House Financial Services Committee Hearing, Rep. Rose asked Chair Gensler whether a SEC-licensed platform could offer a commodity, to which he responded that a licensed platform could only offer securities. As a result, Prometheum’s continued offering of Ethereum appears to be completely misaligned with SEC guidance. Unfortunately, the SEC has made no attempt to offer clear guidance regarding whether Prometheum can offer Ethereum.",1,2026-06-27T20:01:11Z,2026-06-27T22:32:33Z https://burchett.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-burchett-introduces-bill-protecting-uap-whistleblowers,Rep. Burchett introduces bill protecting UAP whistleblowers,2024-11-12,2024,2024-11,Republican,House,TN,Tim Burchett,B001309,burchett.house.gov,burchett,https://burchett.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C., (Nov. 12, 2024) – Today, U.S. Congressman Tim Burchett (TN-02) introduced the UAP Whistleblower Protection Act. “We need to protect folks who want to come forward,” said Rep. Burchett.“Our government spends tens of millions of dollars on looking into UAPs, yet when someone wants to bring something forward, members of our government want to shut it down. People who want to bring the truth to light should be protected.” The UAP Whistleblower Protection Act would provide protections to whistleblowers who bring attention to federal funding that is being used to study UAPs. This bill was introduced the day before the House Committee on Oversight is set to hold a joint subcommittee hearing on UAPs. BACKGROUND: Congressman Tim Burchett (TN-02), along with several bipartisan members of Congress, pushed for a hearing on UAPs which was held by the House Oversight Subcommittee on National Security, the Border, and Foreign Affairs on July 26, 2023. The hearing featured testimony from three witnesses: Ryan Graves, former Navy pilot and Executive Director of Americans for Safe Aerospace Rt. Commander David Fravor, Former Commanding Officer, Black Aces Squadron, U.S. Navy David Grusch, former National Reconnaissance Officer Representative, Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena Task Force, Department of Defense Congressman Burchett also launched the bipartisan UAP Caucus in the House of Representatives, which he co-chairs alongside Congressman Jared Moskowitz (FL-23). Some members of the UAP Caucus sent a letter to the Inspector General of the Intelligence Community asking for follow-up information regarding David Grusch’s testimony in the recent hearing on UAPs. Congressman Burchett and other members of the UAP Caucusintroduced the UAP Transparency Act, which would require the president of the United States to direct all federal agencies and departments to make all documents relating to UAPs available to the public within 270 days.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:07:06Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/11/issues/veterans/video-blackburn-honors-tennessee-veterans,VIDEO: Blackburn Honors Tennessee Veterans,2024-11-11,2024,2024-11,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Today, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released the following video honoring the patriotism and service of more than 400,000 veterans across the Volunteer State on Veterans Day. Learn more about Senator Blackburn’s work to support Tennessee veterans here. Click here to download this video of Senator Blackburn honoring Veterans Day.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:07:06Z https://burchett.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-oversight-committee-announces-uap-hearing,House Oversight Committee announces UAP hearing,2024-11-08,2024,2024-11,Republican,House,TN,Tim Burchett,B001309,burchett.house.gov,burchett,https://burchett.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"KNOXVILLE, Tenn., (Nov. 8, 2024) – The House Committee on Oversight and Accountability announced it will hold a joint subcommittee hearing on unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP). Details are below: Date/Time: Wednesday, November 13 at 11:30am Location: 2154 Rayburn House Office Building, Washington, DC, 20515 Witnesses: Dr. Tim Gallaudet Rear Admiral, U.S. Navy (RET.) Chief Executive Officer, Ocean STL Consulting, LLC Mr. Luis Elizondo Author, and Former Department of Defense Official Mr. Michael Gold Chief Growth Officer, Redwire Corporation, and Former National Aeronautics and Space Administration Associate Administrator Mr. Michael Shellenberger Founder of Public This information is subject to change. Please check the committee website for the most up-to-date information. BACKGROUND: Congressman Tim Burchett (TN-02), along with several bipartisan members of Congress, pushed for a hearing on UAPs which was held by the House Oversight Subcommittee on National Security, the Border, and Foreign Affairs on July 26, 2023. The hearing featured testimony from three witnesses: Ryan Graves, former Navy pilot and Executive Director of Americans for Safe Aerospace Rt. Commander David Fravor, Former Commanding Officer, Black Aces Squadron, U.S. Navy David Grusch, former National Reconnaissance Officer Representative, Unidentified Anomalous Phenomena Task Force, Department of Defense Congressman Burchett also launched the bipartisan UAP Caucus in the House of Representatives, which he co-chairs alongside Congressman Jared Moskowitz (FL-23). Some members of the UAP Caucus sent a letter to the Inspector General of the Intelligence Community asking for follow-up information regarding David Grusch’s testimony in the recent hearing on UAPs.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:07:06Z https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cohen-announces-44-million-grant-upgrade-memphis-firehouse,Congressman Cohen Announces $4.4 Million Grant to Upgrade Memphis Firehouse Maintenance Building,2024-11-08,2024,2024-11,Democrat,House,TN,Steve Cohen,C001068,cohen.house.gov,cohen,https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"MEMPHIS – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9) today announced that the State of Tennessee will receive a Hazard Mitigation Assistance Grant of $4,438,548 from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to upgrade the Memphis firehouse maintenance building at 354 Adams Avenue to current seismic and other building standards. The grant figure represents 90 percent of the total project cost. Congressman Cohen made the following statement: “This FEMA funding will bring a building critical to public safety up to code and permit it to meet the city’s needs in case of an emergency. This is a smart, and potentially life-saving investment.” # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:07:06Z https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cohens-veterans-day-statement,Congressman Cohen’s Veterans Day Statement,2024-11-08,2024,2024-11,Democrat,House,TN,Steve Cohen,C001068,cohen.house.gov,cohen,https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"MEMPHIS -- Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9) will observe Veterans Day on Monday’s November 11 national holiday. He made the following statement: “Every Veterans Day, we pause to pay tribute to the brave men and women who have served our country in uniform and to thank them for their service. On this 106th anniversary of the Armistice that ended World War 1, we honor that tradition. For our veterans, we must also keep our promises to them by providing the best medical care at Department of Veterans Affairs facilities, including at the Lieutenant Colonel Luke Weathers Jr. VA Medical Center in Memphis, so they receive the state-of-the-art treatment they deserve. For those transitioning from the active-duty armed services to civilian life, we need to ensure they have good-paying jobs, strong educational opportunities, and access to student loan relief when applicable. I am always proud to work on legislation to ensure veterans receive the benefits they have been promised. “Although we are not at war, we have thousands of sailors, soldiers, airmen and Marines at home and abroad, including thousands serving in and near active conflicts or providing aid to people in need. For those who are deployed, I look forward to their safe return home to families and friends. “On this Veterans Day, I thank all who have served for their sacrifice. I hope everyone will take the time to thank a veteran or active-duty service member and appreciate the sacrifices that they and their families have made.” # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:07:06Z https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cohen-praises-ousted-israeli-defense-minister-yoav-gallant,Congressman Cohen Praises Ousted Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant,2024-11-05,2024,2024-11,Democrat,House,TN,Steve Cohen,C001068,cohen.house.gov,cohen,https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"MEMPHIS – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9) expressed his appreciation for Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s decision to fire him today over their differences on the conduct of the war and on domestic political issues, and made the following statement: “I commend Yoav Gallant on his work as Defense Minister and his service to Israel at this important time. I have met with the now-former Defense Minister several times, including on my last trip to Israel in June. He was always well-versed on the issues and a credit to the government and his nation. I wish him well in his future pursuits.” # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:07:06Z https://johnrose.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-john-rose-deploys-staff-swing-states-ensure-safe-and-secure-election,Rep. John Rose Deploys Staff to Swing States to Ensure Safe and Secure Election,2024-11-05,2024,2024-11,Republican,House,TN,John W. Rose,R000612,johnrose.house.gov,johnrose,https://johnrose.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC—Today, U.S. Representative John Rose (TN-06) announced that members of his staff are participating in the House of Representatives' historic election integrity effort known as the Election Observer Program. The Constitution grants each House of Congress the authority to “be the judge of the Elections, Returns, and Qualifications of its own Members.” The Election Observer Program deploys congressional observers—including members of Representative Rose’s staff—to election sites across the country to record on-the-ground, minute-by-minute, factual information for use during election contests. Members of Representative Rose’s staff obtained training on how to properly observe election proceedings and administration. They will be on the election day site from the first vote being cast to the last vote being counted. For more information on the Election Observer Program, click here. Rep. Rose released the following statement: “Tennessee is the national leader for free and fair elections. I have deployed my staff to help ensure that other states are doing their part,” said Rep. Rose. “I am proud to have members of my staff spread throughout swing districts across the country ensuring Americans’ right to vote is safe and secure. Election integrity is of paramount importance to a functioning republic, and this is one tool in our toolbox to ensure Americans can have confidence and trust in the results.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:07:06Z https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cohen-announces-538352-grant-st-jude,"Congressman Cohen Announces $538,352 Grant to St. Jude",2024-11-04,2024,2024-11,Democrat,House,TN,Steve Cohen,C001068,cohen.house.gov,cohen,https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"MEMPHIS – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9) today announced that St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital will receive a grant of $538,352 from the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases to study regulation of T cell memory in tissue immunity. Congressman Cohen made the following statement: “I am pleased to see this substantial investment by one of our National Institutes of Health in research being done at our premier children’s research hospital. Insights gained will lead to potential therapies and best-practices, and ultimately will save lives.” # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:07:06Z https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cohen-expresses-concern-suggestion-jeffrey-epstein-had,Congressman Cohen Expresses Concern at Suggestion Jeffrey Epstein had Compromising Photographs of Trump,2024-11-01,2024,2024-11,Democrat,House,TN,Steve Cohen,C001068,cohen.house.gov,cohen,https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"MEMPHIS – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9), a senior member of the Judiciary Committee, today expressed concern that the pedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein reportedly had compromising photographs of Donald Trump with topless young women and showed them to book author Michael Wolff. News of the photographs was reported Thursday evening in The Daily Beast, along with Trump campaign denunciations of the story. At the July 24, 2024, Federal Bureau of Investigation Oversight Hearing in the House Judiciary Committee, Congressman Cohen asked FBI Director Christopher Wray about the FBI’s search of Jeffrey Epstein’s home and what was found. After the hearing, Congressman followed up with Director Wray on this issue and submitted written questions for him about the Epstein case and evidence seized in searches of Epstein’s homes. Among those questions: “Did the FBI retrieve any evidence that prompted the agency to open a new criminal investigation with a target other than Epstein for alleged sexual abuse? “Did the FBI recover any evidence that the FBI suspects Mr. Epstein held to blackmail others? “Will you open up the FBI’s records about your interactions with, and investigations of, Jeffrey Epstein?” The FBI has not yet responded to those questions. See Congressman Cohen’s questions to Wray at the July hearing here. # # #",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:07:06Z https://johnrose.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-john-rose-introduces-resolution-condemning-president-bidens-garbage,Rep. John Rose Introduces Resolution Condemning President Biden’s Garbage Remarks,2024-11-01,2024,2024-11,Republican,House,TN,John W. Rose,R000612,johnrose.house.gov,johnrose,https://johnrose.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC—Today, U.S. Representative John Rose (TN-06) introduced a House Resolution condemning President Biden’s remarks calling Trump supporters “garbage” during a pro forma session of Congress. The resolution reads, “Whereas, on October 29, 2024, President Biden stated, ‘The only garbage I see floating around there is his supporters,’ referring to supporters of President Trump: Now, therefore, be it resolved, That the House of Representatives condemns President Biden’s remarks referring to President Trump’s supporters as “garbage.” Read the full text here. Rep. Rose released the following statement: “President Biden must be condemned for calling millions of Americans who support Donald Trump garbage,” said Rep. Rose. “First Democrats called half the country deplorables, now they are doubling down calling us garbage. Democrats’ disrespect for half the country’s views and opinions is exactly what is wrong with the leadership of extreme far-left liberals.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:07:06Z https://ogles.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-ogles-drops-bill-block-federal-funds-grotesque-mutilation-children,Rep. Ogles Drops Bill to Block Federal Funds for ‘Grotesque’ Mutilation of Children,2024-11-01,2024,2024-11,Republican,House,TN,Andrew Ogles,O000175,ogles.house.gov,ogles,https://ogles.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"“God created everyone either male or female, and no one can change this through drugs or surgeries,” she said in an exclusive statement to Breitbart. “Pharmaceutical companies prey on confused young children and pressure them into making decisions they will regret for the rest of their lives. The left exploits gender confusion among young people for their own political gain. I am glad to stand with Rep. Ogles in prohibiting federal funds from going to any organization that harms our children.” Sen. JD Vance (R-OH), Trump’s running mate, discussed the issue on an episode of the Joe Rogan Experience released Thursday. Vance and Rogan suggested pharmaceutical companies and parents eager for acceptance in leftwing social circles are to blame for the rising crisis. “Are you not at all a little bit worried about how rich people are getting by prescribing experimental therapeutics to 9, 10, 12-year-old kids?” Vance told Rogan. Vance described conversations with his own children that demonstrate children should not be permitted to make life-altering decisions about their long-term health. “My four-year-old will come to me and say ‘daddy, I’m a dinosaur,’” Vance said. “Want me to take him to the dinosaur transition clinic and put scales on him?” Rogan said some parents are eager for their children to join the LGBT community to acquire a “flag of virtue they can post in their front lawn.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:07:06Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/11/issues/immigration/blackburn-ernst-fight-to-protect-americans-and-deport-illegal-immigrants-convicted-of-sex-crimes,"Blackburn, Ernst Fight to Protect Americans and Deport Illegal Immigrants Convicted of Sex Crimes",2024-11-01,2024,2024-11,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – After a shocking report revealed that tens of thousands of illegal immigrants with sexual assault convictions are in the country, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) joined Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) and 18 of their colleagues in introducing a bipartisan bill that will allow America to deport sexual offenders currently in the country and block those seeking to enter: “Led by Border Czar Kamala Harris, the Biden-Harris administration has left our southern border wide open to dangerous criminals and national security threats,” said Senator Blackburn. “Our Be GONE Act would ensure that illegal immigrants who commit sexual assault and aggravated sexual violence are deported to keep American citizens safe.” “These violent criminals never would have entered America in the first place if we had real border security, but now that they’re in our communities, they need to BE GONE,” said Senator Ernst. “Since Border Czar Kamala Harris won’t protect this country, then I will. My legislation will combat sexual violence by ensuring predators are identified, stopped, and deported.” BE GONE ACT: Specifically, the Better Enforcement of Grievous Offenses by unNaturalized Emigrants (BE GONE) Act would amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to include sexual assault and aggravated sexual violence as crimes that are defined as “aggravated felonies.” CO-SPONSORS:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T22:07:06Z https://kustoff.house.gov/media/press-releases/kustoff-helps-introduce-bipartisan-farmer-assistance-and-revenue-mitigation,Kustoff Helps Introduce Bipartisan Farmer Assistance and Revenue Mitigation Act,2024-10-30,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,TN,David Kustoff,K000392,kustoff.house.gov,kustoff,https://kustoff.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman David Kustoff (R-TN) joined Congressman Trent Kelly (R-MS) to introduce the bipartisan Farmer Assistance and Revenue Mitigation Act of 2024 (FARM Act) in the House of Representatives. This legislation will provide emergency assistance to farmers of eligible commodities for which the expected revenue in crop year 2024 is below the projected per-acre cost of production. As Congress continues to debate an updated Farm Bill, this legislation will provide immediate relief by helping farmers pay down debt relative to the 2024 crop and help obtain financing for the 2025 crop year. ""Our farmers produce the food, fuel, and fiber used around the world,"" said Congressman Kustoff. ""Recently, our farmers have been forced to grapple with many circumstances out of their control, such as natural disasters, high inflation, and drought. That is why I am pleased to join Congressman Kelly to introduce this vital legislation that will provide our farmers with the assistance they need to keep up production. Farmers are the backbone of our economy, and I am working to ensure they have the resources they need from Washington."" This legislation has been supported by the American Farm Bureau Federation, Tennessee Farm Bureau, Mississippi Farm Bureau, American Soybean Association, National Association of Wheat Growers, National Barley Growers Association, National Cotton Council, National Sorghum Producers, National Sunflower Association, U.S. Canola Association, U.S. Peanut Federation, USA Dry Pea & Lentil Council, USA Rice, and the Western Peanut Growers Association. ###",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/issues/immigration/blackburn-cornyn-gop-colleagues-introduce-bill-to-stop-biden-harris-amnesty-program,"Blackburn, Cornyn, GOP Colleagues Introduce Bill to Stop Biden-Harris Amnesty Program",2024-10-30,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), and 12 of their colleagues introduced the Visa Integrity Preservation Act, which would close a loophole in current law that the Biden-Harris administration exploited in a June 2024 executive action to grant amnesty to illegal immigrants who entered the United States without inspection or overstayed a visa: “Since day one in office, the Biden-Harris administration has made it crystal clear that they support an open border and providing mass amnesty to illegal immigrants through unlawful catch-and-release programs,” said Senator Blackburn. “Our Visa Integrity Preservation Act would stop the Biden-Harris administration from devaluing U.S. citizenship and making illegal immigration legal.” “For almost four years, the Biden-Harris administration has waived their magic amnesty wand to create unlawful programs that allow any and every person to enter and stay in the U.S. – legally or not,” said Senator Cornyn. “By strengthening the laws already on the books, our legislation would root out this massive pull factor while also preserving the integrity of our employment-based nonimmigrant visa program, and I’m grateful to my colleagues for their support.” BACKGROUND: Under current immigration law, illegal immigrants who overstay their visas cannot reenter the United States for up to 10 years if they leave, and those who illegally enter the U.S. are not allowed to reenter at all. Federal law also requires that temporary visa applicants interview abroad at a U.S. consulate before they can receive their visas, so illegal immigrants are not eligible to regularize their status using the temporary visa programs. The law does allow the U.S. Secretary of State to waive the consular interview requirement, but only on a case-by-case basis where in the national interest of the United States or in emergency situations. In June 2024, the Biden-Harris administration announced a new initiative to grant amnesty to over half a million illegal immigrants, including spouses of American citizens. As part of that initiative, President Biden and Vice President Harris waived the consular interview requirement for nonimmigrant visas, enabling immigrants who have illegally entered the U.S. or overstayed a visa to obtain temporary work visas. The Biden-Harris administration’s waiving of this policy encroaches on Congress’s authority and threatens to transform nonimmigrant visa programs into a tool to provide amnesty to illegal immigrants. VISA INTEGRITY PRESERVATION ACT: The Visa Integrity Preservation Act would amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to clarify that immigrants who have entered the U.S. illegally or overstayed a visa for more than 180 days are not eligible for a waiver of the in-person consular interview requirement and would instead be required under all circumstances to depart the U.S. for an interview before they could receive a nonimmigrant visa. Under existing law, they are barred from reentering the U.S. upon presenting for inspection at a Port of Entry. CO-SPONSORS: This legislation is also co-sponsored by Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), and Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/issues/women/video-blackburn-highlights-domestic-violence-awareness-month-and-the-salons-stories-act-on-unmuted-with-marsha,VIDEO: Blackburn Highlights Domestic Violence Awareness Month and The SALONS Stories Act on ‘Unmuted with Marsha’,2024-10-30,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Today, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released a new episode of ‘Unmuted with Marsha’ highlighting Domestic Violence Awareness Month and the SALONS Stories Act. Senator Blackburn spoke with Tennessee salon owner and Shear Haven Co-Founder Susanne Post about her personal experience and how the SALONS Stories Act would incentivize states to provide domestic violence awareness training for beauty professionals. The national domestic violence hotline number is 800-799-SAFE (7233). The free 20-minute Shear Haven training can be found at Shearhaventraining.org. Clickhere to watch this episode of Unmuted with Marsha. “Last December, Senator Duckworth and I introduced a piece of legislation, the SALONS Stories Act. This is important because it allows training that is done by a nonprofit for all of our estheticians and barbers and beauticians. Tennessee and Illinois have moved forward with this training. This is something we are trying to incentivize and do nationwide.” – Senator Blackburn “This advocacy work that I'm doing was born out of a very personal season for me as a survivor of domestic violence. I know firsthand how isolating it is to be in an abusive relationship, how difficult it can be to take steps to lead safely, and how important it was for me, personally to have someone trusted and close to me that was educated with the signs of domestic violence.” – Susanne Post, Tennessee salon owner and Shear Haven Co-Founder RELATED: VIDEO: Blackburn Recognizes Domestic Violence Awareness Month",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cohen-announces-212-million-usda-regional-conservation,Congressman Cohen Announces $21.2 Million in USDA Regional Conservation Partnership Funding,2024-10-29,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,TN,Steve Cohen,C001068,cohen.house.gov,cohen,https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"MEMPHIS – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9) today announced that the Memphis-based MidSouth Development District will receive $21,250,000 through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Regional Conservation Partnership Program for a project providing sustainable improvements to agricultural land with its partners in Shelby, Tipton, Fayette and Lauderdale counties in Tennessee; Crittenden County in Arkansas; and DeSoto County in Mississippi. The project aims to enhance ecosystem health by establishing diverse habitats on the edges of production sites across the six counties, supporting ecosystem services that reduce synthetic inputs and improve water and soil quality. This approach will increase biodiversity, providing natural pest control and pollination, thereby promoting sustainable agriculture. Congressman Cohen made the following statement: “Mid-South agriculture and the livelihoods it supports are a critical foundation of our regional economy and promoting biodiversity is an important goal. Applying best practices for sustainable and environmentally protective farmland use with the help of this substantial funding will be an economic boon to our region, its workers, and its plants and animals.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/issues/health-care/blackburn-whitehouse-colleagues-urge-dea-to-extend-telehealth-flexibilities-for-substance-use-disorder-and-mental-health-treatment,"Blackburn, Whitehouse, Colleagues Urge DEA to Extend Telehealth Flexibilities for Substance Use Disorder and Mental Health Treatment",2024-10-29,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), and Mark Warner (D-Va.) led a group of 11 Senators in sending a bipartisan letter calling on the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to extend COVID-era regulatory flexibilities that increase access to telehealth services. These rules have been a lifeline for many patients, particularly those in rural and underserved communities, as well as individuals managing mental health conditions, substance use disorders, and chronic illnesses. “Telemedicine has proven to be an effective tool in reducing barriers to care, supporting those with the greatest need, and bridging the divide between patients and providers,” wrote the Senators. “As bipartisan senators committed to safeguarding public health and promoting equitable access to health care, we are concerned that the reported proposed restrictions could have significant unintended consequences, including disrupting access to treatment for substance use disorder,” added the Senators. “We urge the DEA to continue working with stakeholders on a proposal that prioritizes the public health benefit for continued access to telemedicine, and finalize an additional temporary extension well before the December 31, 2024 deadline so that both providers and patients have certainty that there will be no gap in their ongoing care.” BACKGROUND: The bipartisan letter urges the Biden administration to extend the current flexibilities that safeguard access to necessary care while addressing the risks of prescription medication misuse, and recommends a final rule that creates no new barriers to care. The letter highlights that telemedicine has expanded access to life-saving treatments, particularly for opioid use disorder, mental health care, and chronic illnesses. Overdose deaths involving opioids rose to a peak of 84,181 Americans in 2022 before falling to 81,083 in 2023. Despite strong evidence that medication is the most effective treatment for opioid use disorder, only one in five Americans with opioid addiction receive medication treatment that could help them quit and stay in recovery. The Senators’ letter also stresses the importance of ensuring there is no gap in services when the current rules expire at the end of 2024. TREATS ACT: In November 2023, Senators Blackburn, Whitehouse, Murkowski, and Warner reintroduced the Telehealth Response for E-prescribing Addiction Therapy Services (TREATS) Act to increase access to medication for substance use disorder through telehealth. The bipartisan legislation would waive regulatory restrictions for accessing care, preserving flexibilities put in place to save lives during the COVID-19 pandemic. During the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency, the DEA and the Department of Health and Human Services temporarily removed the in-person exam requirement for prescribing medication via telemedicine for people with opioid use disorder. Telehealth flexibilities helped a broad range of patients – including veterans, those living in rural areas, people experiencing homelessness, individuals in the criminal justice system, and racial and ethnic minorities – access treatment. The flexibilities are set to expire on December 31, 2024. The TREATS Act would make the changes permanent, allowing providers to waive the in-person visit requirement and instead use audio-only or audio-visual telehealth technology. The TREATS Act has 20 bipartisan co-sponsors in the Senate. CO-SIGNERS: The letter is also signed by Senators Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Angus King (I-Maine), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), and Peter Welch (D-Vt.). Representatives Doris Matsui (D-Calif.) and Buddy Carter (R-Ga.) are leading a similar effort in the House.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cohen-announces-262-million-federal-railroad-administration,Congressman Cohen Announces $26.2 Million in Federal Railroad Administration Grants,2024-10-28,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,TN,Steve Cohen,C001068,cohen.house.gov,cohen,https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"MEMPHIS – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9), a senior member of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, today announced two Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) Program grants from the Federal Railroad Administration totaling $26,269,987. The first, for $19,843,062, is for the conversion of eight Watco Company diesel locomotives to battery-electric, zero-emission locomotives. Watco operates the Memphis Dock Street Marine Terminal on Presidents Island. Congressman Cohen submitted a letter of support for the project. The second grant, for $6,426,925, is for Montana State University’s initiative to create multidisciplinary rail workforce capacity. The 20 percent non-federal match will come from Caltrans, the University of Memphis, Montana State University, and the Big Sky Passenger Rail Authority, among others. The federal funding for both grants comes from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act that Congressman Cohen alone among current members of the Tennessee Congressional delegation supported. Congressman Cohen made the following statement: “Lowering air-polluting emissions while modernizing rail operations is a forward-thinking approach to moving freight. Those operations will require a workforce of the future, trained in modern rail technologies. These grants will propel our region and the nation into a smarter and cleaner rail industry. I’m pleased to see more IIJA funding coming to the district.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cohen-announces-86-million-grant-vanderbilt-university,Congressman Cohen Announces $8.6 Million Grant to Vanderbilt University Intermodal Mobility Consortium,2024-10-28,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,TN,Steve Cohen,C001068,cohen.house.gov,cohen,https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"MEMPHIS – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9), a senior member of the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, today announced that a project he supported at Vanderbilt University will receive a grant of $8,666,053 from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) to accelerate integrated multimodal mobility operations in Memphis, Knoxville, Nashville and Chattanooga. The consortium will foster collaborative efforts in tracking intermodal transportation issues, enabling efficient data sharing and pooling statewide resources to develop models and strategies. The funding came from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act that Congressman Cohen voted for. Congressman Cohen made the following statement: “Multimodal freight transportation is the future and investments in its efficiencies across Tennessee makes sense. I was pleased to endorse Vanderbilt’s use of advanced technologies and innovation to improve the transportation of goods across our state.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://ogles.house.gov/media/press-releases/icymi-ogles-leads-bill-provide-additional-disaster-relief,ICYMI: Ogles Leads Bill to Provide Additional Disaster Relief,2024-10-28,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,TN,Andrew Ogles,O000175,ogles.house.gov,ogles,https://ogles.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC—Congressman Andy Ogles (TN-05) and fellow Reps. Aaron Bean (FL-04), Neil Dunn (FL-02), and Vern Buchanan (FL-16) introduced the Americans First Disaster Relief Act. The legislation would appropriate an additional $10 billion to FEMA for disaster relief. Instead of new spending, the bill would offset the $10 billion by rescinding funding for IRS agents provided through the Inflation “Reduction” Act of 2022. Additionally, the legislation prohibits FEMA from using the re-allocated disaster relief funding to provide any benefit to any alien not lawfully present in the United States. “Americans have been put last at every level by the Biden-Harris Administration. This Administration’s lackluster response to the devastation left behind by hurricanes Helene and Milton is only the latest in a string of America Last policies. Taxpayer dollars continue to be sent by the hundreds of billions to foreign countries and to fund increased audits on Middle America by a weaponized IRS, leaving little to nothing to care for the Americans who foot the bill,” said Congressman Ogles. “That’s why I have introduced the Americans First Disaster Relief Act, which would rescind funding for additional IRS agents in the so-called Inflation “Reduction” Act of 2022 and reallocate $10 billion to FEMA disaster relief.” “Floridians will not soon forget this hurricane season as the devastation across the southeast is simply unimaginable. I’m pleased to provide additional resources for the Disaster Relief Fund to help those impacted by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. I am focused on ensuring federal assistance helps families, small business owners, and communities receive support in the aftermath of these storms, and ensure the funds are utilized where they are needed most—actual disaster relief,” said Congressman Bean. Cosponsors (3): Reps. Neil Dunn (FL-02), Aaron Bean (FL-04), and Vern Buchanan (FL-16). BILL TEXT",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/issues/immigration/broadband-czar-harris-must-be-held-accountable-for-mismanagement-of-federal-initiatives,“Broadband Czar” Harris Must Be Held Accountable for Mismanagement of Federal Initiatives,2024-10-25,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), John Thune (R-S.D.), ranking member of the Subcommittee on Communications, Media, and Broadband, and seven of their Senate colleagues sent a letter to Vice President Kamala Harris regarding her egregious mismanagement of federal broadband initiatives. In 2021, President Biden specifically tasked the Vice President to lead the administration’s effort to expand broadband services to rural, unserved communities. Under Vice President Harris’s tenure as the “broadband czar,” the Biden-Harris administration’s $42 billion Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program has yet to connect a single person to the internet. “Instead of focusing on delivering broadband services to unserved areas, your administration has used the BEAD program to add partisan, extralegal requirements that were never envisioned by Congress and have obstructed broadband deployment,” wrote the Senators. “By imposing burdensome climate change mandates on infrastructure projects, prioritizing government-owned networks over private investment, mandating the use of unionized labor in states, and seeking to regulate broadband rates, your administration has caused unnecessary delays leaving millions of Americans unconnected.” CO-SIGNERS: The letter was also signed by Senators Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), and Todd Young (R-Ind.).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://ogles.house.gov/media/press-releases/ogles-scott-demand-report-operational-value-al-udeid-air-base,"Ogles, Scott Demand Report on Operational Value of Al-Udeid Air Base",2024-10-24,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,TN,Andrew Ogles,O000175,ogles.house.gov,ogles,https://ogles.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC—Congressman Andy Ogles (TN-05) and Senator Rick Scott (R-FL) sent a letter to House and Senate leadership, urging them to keep Section 1287 of the Senate National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) in the final version of the FY25 NDAA. This provision requires the Secretary of Defense to submit a report and provide a briefing on the operational value of the Al-Udeid Air Base in Qatar, given Qatar’s relationship with Hamas, the Taliban, and other terrorist organizations. “Qatar has been housing Hamas and Taliban leadership for years, all while the United States continues to allow Qatar the privilege of hosting our nation’s largest airbase (Al-Udeid) in the Middle East,” said Congressman Ogles. “Thousands of our brave Servicemembers serve at Al-Udeid, and we have an obligation to ensure our nation’s military installations are in the hands of trustworthy allies - not bankrollers of terrorist organizations.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://ogles.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-ogles-demands-bureau-prisons-immediately-release-steve-bannon-danbury-fci,Rep. Ogles Demands Bureau of Prisons Immediately Release Steve Bannon from Danbury FCI and Comply with First Step Act,2024-10-24,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,TN,Andrew Ogles,O000175,ogles.house.gov,ogles,https://ogles.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"By: Tom Pappert ""Representative Andy Ogles (R-TN-05) demanded the release of former Trump White House chief strategist Steve Bannon in a Thursday letter to Biden-Harris administration Bureau of Prisons (BOP) director Colette Peters that was obtained by The Tennessee Star."" Ogles accused the federal agency of “willfully facilitating the political persecution of the Democrat Party’s political opponents,” through its refusal to apply the First Step Act (FSA) good time credits accrued by Bannon, and demanded Peters take immediate actions to secure the former Trump adviser’s early release from prison. The Tennessee congressman sent the letter after The Star obtained a confirmation from the acting warden at the Federal Correctional Institution in Danbury, Connecticut, acknowledging Bannon accrued good time credits that would ordinarily be applied toward supervised release or home confinement under the FSA, the Trump-era criminal justice reform. Acting Warden Darek Puzio acknowledged Bannon’s good time credits in his Friday letter Bannon’s attorneys, but declared them moot due to the short amount time left on the former Trump official’s sentence. Bannon was convicted in 2022 after he refused to comply with a subpoena from the House select committee that investigated January 6. Ogles wrote in his Thursday letter to Peters, “Despite retaining eligibility for home confinement, the Bureau of Prisons chose nto to ensure a just, post-incarceration placement outcome for Steve Bannon,” and accused the federal agency of “baselessly” extending Bannon’s sentence because of his “prominent role in the Make America Great Again (MAGA) movement,” before referencing reporting about Bannon’s incarceration by The Star: In a letter obtained by the Tennessee Star on Monday, the Bureau of Prisons acknowledged that Steve Bannon would not be afforded the 10 days of good time credit he is entitled to under the First Step Act, as the Regional Reentry Management Office maintains it cannot process home confinement placements in under 30 days. While this bureaucratic explanation may be sufficient for an oftentimes complacent legacy media, millions of Americans will nevertheless see through this disingenuous explanation and raise questions as to why the Bureau is unnecessarily – and perhaps even illegally – imprisoning Mr. Bannon until only days before the 2024 general election.” Ogles ultimately accused the federal agency of failing to uphold the FSA during Bannon’s prison sentence, and demanded cooperation in arranging the former Trump adviser’s immediate release. “Your agency could have assisted Mr. Bannon and his team in securing a pre-release custodial arrangement; instead, for reasons we could only hope to chalk up to the typical incompetence of the Washington bureaucrat, he is now being forced to forego a benefit afforded to him under the law,” wrote Ogles. He concluded by noting his expectation of Peters’ “full cooperation in facilitating the immediate pre-release custodial arrangement for Mr. Bannon, in compliance with the First Step Act.” The Star contacted Peters on Thursday to ask whether she intended to comply with Ogles’ letter, but did not receive an immediate response. Bannon, without action from Peters, remains scheduled to be released from prison on October 29, just six days before Election Day.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/issues/human-trafficking/blackburn-cornyn-blumenthal-colleagues-introduce-bill-to-combat-child-exploitation,"Blackburn, Cornyn, Blumenthal, Colleagues Introduce Bill to Combat Child Exploitation",2024-10-24,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), and three of their Senate colleagues introduced the PROTECT Our Children Act, which would reauthorize and modernize the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Program: “For more than 15 years, the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Program has helped law enforcement agencies protect innocent children from sexual predators who wish to exploit them online,” said Senator Blackburn. “The PROTECT Our Children Act would reauthorize this critical program to combat technology-facilitated crimes against children.” “For decades, the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Program has played an invaluable role in helping federal, state, and local law enforcement work together to fight child exploitation and put vicious predators behind bars,” said Senator Cornyn. “By extending and modernizing this program, our legislation would ensure these Task Forces can continue to protect our next generation in an increasingly digital world.” “We must save children who are victims of the most ongoing vile, stomach-churning crimes because child sexual abuse goes unstopped,” said Senator Blumenthal. “Protecting such victims is urgent and imperative—and we have an obligation to provide tools and resources necessary to do it. The PROTECT Our Children Act reauthorizes and modernizes the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force Programs, enabling law enforcement to combat the exploding, serious dangers of abhorrent abuse in an online society. This essential legislation will help safeguard our children and hold predators accountable.” BACKGROUND: The Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force Program helps state and local law enforcement agencies develop an effective response to technology-facilitated child sexual exploitation and Internet crimes against children. This encompasses forensic and investigative components, training and technical assistance, victim services, and community education. This national network of 61 coordinated task forces represents more than 5,400 federal, state, and local law enforcement and prosecutorial agencies engaged in both proactive and reactive investigations, forensic investigations, and criminal prosecutions. Since 1998, ICAC Task Forces have trained more than 826,700 law enforcement officers, prosecutors, and other professionals on techniques to investigative and prosecute ICAC-related cases. They have also reviewed more than 1,452,040 reports of online child exploitation, resulting in the arrest of more than 123,790 suspects. THE PROTECT OUR CHILDREN ACT: The PROTECT Our Children Act would: Update and modernize the requirements for the National Strategy for Child Exploitation Prevention and Interdiction, including requiring the U.S. Department of Justice to provide detailed, useful information on efforts to protect children nationwide; Provide liability protection for ICAC Task Forces in the course of conducting criminal investigations of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) and child abuse material; Make needed technical improvements and clarifications to the statutory text of the program to match it to current technology and needs; Focus the ICAC program on both proactive and reactive investigations; and Reauthorize the ICAC Program through 2027 with an escalator authorization. ENDORSEMENTS: The PROTECT Our Children Act is endorsed by the National Center on Sexual Exploitation (NCOSE), the Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network (RAINN), National Children’s Alliance, National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC), Rights 4 Girls, National District Attorneys Association (NDAA), Raven, Fraternal Order of Police, Association of State Criminal Investigative Agencies (ASCIA), and the National Criminal Justice Training Center (NCJTC). CO-SPONSORS:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cohen-applauds-transportation-department-response,Congressman Cohen Applauds Transportation Department Response to Mistreatment of Air Travelers with Disabilities,2024-10-23,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,TN,Steve Cohen,C001068,cohen.house.gov,cohen,https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"MEMPHIS – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9), the Ranking Member of the Aviation Subcommittee, today applauded the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT’s) $50 million fine against American Airlines for its mistreatment of air travelers who use wheelchairs. Congressman Cohen introduced the Mobility Aids on Board Improve Lives and Empower All (MOBILE) Act in 2023 and was pleased to see parts of the legislation included in a proposed DOT rule in February and codified in the FAA Reauthorization Act in May. Congressman Cohen joined members of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee last December in writing a letter to Airlines for America (A4A) expressing their dismay over the continued mistreatment of passenger wheelchairs and scooters that had come to light after video of such misuse at Miami International Airport surfaced in the news media. Congressman Cohen made the following statement: “I applaud DOT’s and Secretary Buttigieg’s righteous stand against the senseless mistreatment of mobility devices by airline and airport personnel. Today’s serious penalty shows that federal officials are aware of and taking seriously the damage done to what are often the only means for some air passengers to get around. This is yet another example of the DOT listening to Congress and looking out for the vulnerable as we attempt to make air travel safer and more convenient for all.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/issues/women/video-blackburn-recognizes-breast-cancer-awareness-month,VIDEO: Blackburn Recognizes Breast Cancer Awareness Month,2024-10-23,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released the following video recognizing October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month and encouraging women to get their yearly mammogram. One in eight women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime, and now is the perfect time to encourage your mothers, sisters, daughters, and friends to go in for a yearly checkup. Last year, Senator Blackburn led a bipartisan effort to address the challenges female veterans face when seeking mammogram services. Expanding access to mobile mammography units, improving advanced mammography equipment, and enhancing outreach services to better publicize mammography services will increase female veterans’ access to lifesaving preventative screening. Click here to download this video of Senator Blackburn discussing Breast Cancer Awareness Month. “As we think about breast cancer, one in eight women is expected to experience breast cancer in her lifetime, so breast health and mammograms are important. Last year, I led an effort to make certain that our female veterans have access to mammograms, and we did that through legislation that would allow mobile mammography. So ‘think pink’ during the month of October, and wear some pink, as you remind moms and sisters and daughters and friends to get that mammogram.”– Senator Blackburn RELATED:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cohen-announces-3-million-grant-memphis-international,Congressman Cohen Announces $3 Million Grant for Memphis International Airport,2024-10-22,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,TN,Steve Cohen,C001068,cohen.house.gov,cohen,https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"MEMPHIS – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9), a senior member of the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure and Ranking Member of its Aviation Subcommittee, today announced that the Memphis International Airport will receive $3 million for the reconstruction of a portion of the Terminal Access Road which will allow for the expansion of the terminal building. The work will provide easier access to the front of the airport, including for Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) passengers, where four lanes will be curb-less. The funding came from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act that Congressman Cohen alone among the current Tennessee Congressional Delegation voted for. Congressman Cohen made the following statement: “This Airport Terminal Program funding will enhance Americans with Disabilities Act access and allow for the expansion of the terminal building at our airport. Memphis International Airport is an economic engine for our entire region. This investment strengthens its ability to attract and serve the flying public.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cohen-reintroduces-school-bus-safety-act,Congressman Cohen Reintroduces the School Bus Safety Act,2024-10-22,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,TN,Steve Cohen,C001068,cohen.house.gov,cohen,https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9), a senior member of the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, today reintroduced the School Bus Safety Act to implement safety recommendations from the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), including installation of seat belts for every seat and safety measures such as stability control and automatic braking systems. The measure, being introduced during National School Bus Safety Week, would also create a grant program to help school districts modify their school buses to implement the safety specifications. Congressman Cohen first introduced a version of the bill in 2018. Senator Tammy Duckworth of Illinois and Senator Sherrod Brown of Ohio have introduced a companion measure in the Senate. Congressman Cohen made the following statement: “There is no more precious cargo than school-aged children entrusted by their parents for a ride to school. The commonsense measures recommended by the NTSB and called for in this legislation will save young lives. I am pleased to reintroduce this legislation with Senators Duckworth and Brown to make school buses across the country safer while helping financially strapped school districts modify their school bus fleets to meet the new specifications. We’ve seen too many deaths and serious injuries in school bus accidents in Tennessee and elsewhere, and it is past time we act to save young lives.” “Congressman Cohen is a champion for transportation safety, and I applaud his sponsorship of the School Bus Safety Act,” National Transportation Safety Board Chair Jennifer Homendy said. “School buses are often touted as the safest vehicles on our roads, and yet the NTSB continues to investigate crashes that result in preventable fatalities and injuries involving children, adults who accompany them, and other road users. I’m pleased that the legislation introduced by Rep. Cohen would advance longstanding NTSB safety recommendations, such as requiring school buses to have three-point safety belts and collision-avoidance technology, among other vital safety enhancements. Every school bus crash serves as a painful reminder of the cost of inaction. I thank Rep. Cohen for his leadership and look forward to working with Congress to ensure U.S. school buses are as safe as possible. The NTSB will not rest until the number of lives lost to school bus tragedies is ZERO.” The School Bus Safety Act would require the Department of Transportation issue rules requiring all school buses include: A three-point safety belt, which includes a seat belt across a lap as well as a shoulder harness to help protect passengers by restraining them in case of a collision; An Automatic Emergency Braking System, which helps prevent accidents and crashes by detecting objects or vehicles ahead of the bus and braking automatically; An Event Data Recorder (EDR) that can record pre- and post-crash data, driver inputs, and restraint usage when a collision does occur; An Electronic Stability Control (ESC) System that will use automatic computer-controlled braking of individual wheels to assist the driver to remain in control of the vehicle; A Fire Suppression System, which addresses engine fires; and A Firewall that prohibits hazardous quantities of gas or flame to from passing from the engine compartment to the passenger compartment. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) from 2013 to 2022, there were 976 fatal school-transportation-related crashes, and 1,082 people of all ages were killed in those crashes — an average of 108 fatalities per year. Congressman Cohen has been a strong advocate of increasing school bus safety, originally introducing this legislation in September of 2018. The School Bus Safety Act is supported by the National Safety Council, Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety, the Center for Auto Safety, the National Sheriffs’ Association, the American Academy of Pediatrics, the National Parent Teacher Association (PTA) and Consumer Reports. Endorsing organization statements: “Every child deserves to get to and from school safely,” said Lorraine Martin, president and CEO of the National Safety Council. “This critical legislation will ensure school buses are equipped with the latest in life-saving technology, including seat belts -- a common-sense solution that keeps kids safe. We commend Rep. Cohen for his leadership and look forward to working with him and his Congressional colleagues to advance this measure and protect our country’s youngest travelers.” “Every child deserves a safe journey to and from school, and no family should endure the heartbreak of losing a child in a preventable crash. Essential protections like three-point seat belts and automatic emergency braking (AEB) should be standard on all school buses to help prevent and reduce the impact of crashes. We are grateful to Rep. Steve Cohen (D-TN) for championing the School Bus Safety Act in the House of Representatives to ensure vulnerable child passengers are secure.” said Cathy Chase, President, Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety (Advocates) “When children are traveling on a school bus, it is imperative that there are commonsense safeguards in place to protect and keep them safe. The American Academy of Pediatrics has long advocated for needed improvements to school bus safety that can save lives and prevent serious injuries, including seat belts and other safety measures. We applaud Representative Steve Cohen (D-Tenn.) for introducing the School Bus Safety Act and call for its swift passage. It is time we enact these long overdue safety measures,” said American Academy of Pediatrics President Benjamin Hoffman, MD, FAAP. “Child safety is the chief concern for parents—during the school day and while traveling to and from school,” said Yvonne Johnson, president of National PTA, the nation’s oldest and largest child advocacy association. “PTA supports standards, regulations and features to help keep children safe while they board, exit and ride on school buses, and our association applauds Representative Cohen for introducing the School Bus Safety Act.” “America’s school buses lack much of the essential safety equipment protecting us in our cars every day, which is why the Center for Auto Safety commends Representative Cohen for the reintroduction of the School Bus Safety Act. The School Bus Safety Act would protect schoolchildren with effective seat belts and fire prevention, modernize the school bus fleet with automatic emergency braking and electronic stability control, and put in place better data collection on school bus crashes.” -- Michael Brooks, Executive Director, Center for Auto Safety",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://johnrose.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-rose-announces-changes-senior-district-staff,Rep. Rose Announces Changes to Senior District Staff,2024-10-22,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,TN,John W. Rose,R000612,johnrose.house.gov,johnrose,https://johnrose.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"COOKEVILLE, TN—Today, U.S. Representative John Rose (TN-06) announced two key changes to his Tennessee staff. Ray Render, who has served as Deputy District Director since 2019, has been promoted to District Director. Rep. Rose is also pleased to welcome back Leah Grider to the team as Deputy Chief of Staff. Rep. Rose released the following statement: “Ray Render and Leah Grider have shown up for the good people of Tennessee’s 6th Congressional District every day since joining my team,” Rep. Rose said. “They both reflect the best of Tennessee, and I have no doubt they will continue to work diligently to meet the needs of our constituents, from East Nashville to East Tennessee.” About Ray Render Ray Render was born and raised in Madison, Tennessee, where he graduated from Madison High School in 1985. He later earned a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering from Tennessee Technological University in 1989. In 1993, he completed a Master of Business Administration from Belmont University. Following a long career at Bridgestone, Ray took on the role of Deputy District Director for Rep. Rose in 2019. At that time, he served those living in the western counties of Tennessee’s 6th Congressional District, including Robertson, Sumner, and Wilson. In 2023, when a significant section of eastern Davidson County was added to the 6th district and Robertson County was removed from the district due to redistricting by the state legislature, he ensured relationships with all new stakeholders were formed. From Madison to Lebanon to Gallatin, Ray is known by local elected officials, business owners, civic leaders, and other constituents as someone who can be counted on to help. Ray’s community involvement extends far beyond his official duties. In fact, his dedication to service earned him the of title of 2023 Wilsonian of the Year. He is involved with Leadership Wilson, Leadership Middle Tennessee, Wilson Rides, Habitat for Humanity, Compassionate Hands and Various Chambers of Commerce. Most recently, Ray served as president of the Mt. Juliet Breakfast Rotary Club. Image About Leah Grider Grider, a Smith County native, spent more than four years serving the 6th District from the Washington, D.C. office. Her new role for Team Rose will be based in Tennessee, primarily serving counties on the eastern end of the district, including Cumberland, Putnam, Fentress Pickett, and Scott. Leah was raised in Carthage and is a graduate of Smith County High School. She is also an alumna of Tennessee Technological University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Accounting. Prior to her work with Representative Rose, Bane worked as an Economic Development Planner for the Upper Cumberland Development District (UCDD), where she collaborated with elected officials, key stakeholders and community leaders from across Tennessee’s Sixth Congressional District in both banking and economic development job roles.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/issues/technology/icymi-in-the-hill-blackburn-pushes-back-against-kosa-lies,ICYMI in The Hill: Blackburn Pushes Back Against KOSA Lies,2024-10-22,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) released a memo rebutting Big Tech’s lies about the Kids Online Safety Act, which passed the Senate 91-3. Read more about this memo in the article here and below. Republican senator pushes back against KOSA ‘lies’ Miranda Nazzaro The Hill Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) pushed back against tech companies’ criticism of the Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA), responding in a memo Monday to what she described as “lies” about the privacy legislation. The memo, released Monday morning by her office, rebuked a series of arguments made by some leading tech companies and lawmakers opposed to the bill’s current form. It comes as the legislation faces an uncertain future in the House after passing in the Senate earlier this year. Blackburn, the co-author of the Senate-passed version, wrote KOSA does not censor speech nor affect the First Amendment — concerns raised by some House Republicans. “KOSA would not censor, limit, or remove any content from the internet and it does not give the FTC or state AGs the power to bring lawsuits over content or speech, no matter who it is from,” the memo stated. “The bill passes First Amendment scrutiny because it is content neutral. The bill would not give any new “rulemaking power” to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), Blackburn wrote in response to some Republicans’ concerns it would give the FTC too much authority to regulate social media platforms. KOSA, which overwhelmingly passed the Senate in a 91-3 vote in late July, is aimed at boosting online privacy and safety for children. The bill would create regulations for the kinds of features tech and social media companies offer kids online and intends to reduce the addictive nature and mental health impact of these platforms. Some House Republicans suggested last month the bill could specifically censor conservative voices or anti-abortion views. Blackburn disagreed with this, writing online platforms will not be held liable for hosting or boosting users with these views, and emphasized the bill does not grant enforcement powers related to speech or content. “Claims that KOSA allows the FTC to decide what kids see online are blatant falsehoods circulated by tech companies trying to stop the bill from becoming law,” Blackburn wrote. “The bill gives the FTC the ability to hold social media accountable for their product designs — their own predatory business practices and deadly apps.” While the bill advanced out of the House Energy and Commerce Committee last month, members in both parties expressed concerns with its language, for different reasons. Some lawmakers took issue with the language of KOSA’s “duty of care” provision. As written in the Senate version, the provision would require platforms to design and implement features for minors to prevent and reduce harms, such as those caused by content promoting suicide and eating disorders. Blackburn offered her definition of the provision, writing it “simply states that online platforms cannot put products on the market that will cause specific harms to kids, such as suicide and sexual predation. These harms are specified and defined by Congress, not the FTC.” The House version that advanced out of committee last month includes amendments changing this provision. The Tennessee Republican further emphasized that KOSA applies to commercial and online platforms like social media, online video games and video streaming services, but it does not apply to nonprofit organizations, blogs, news outlets, churches or broadband companies. “It would not impact the ability of kids to watch online sports, news or a church sermon,” Blackburn wrote. The bill would “give parents a seat at the table” and a place to voice their concerns with leading tech companies, she added. The push comes nearly a week after House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) revealed he likes the concept of KOSA, though he claims the details of the Senate-passed version are “very problematic.” “I love the principle, but the details of that are very problematic,” Johnson told Punchbowl News in an interview in Pennsylvania. The Speaker said the Senate bill, as written, would have “unintended consequences,” Punchbowl reported. Johnson’s office confirmed his comments to The Hill. Punchbowl reported Johnson did not appear open to persuasion on the Senate version, a potential blow to KOSA advocates who previously told the outlet the House leader might be flexible. Monday’s memo follows a series of other efforts led by Blackburn and tech advocacy groups to pass the legislation on the full House floor. RELATED:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/news/icymi-on-wjhl-blackburn-lauds-volunteers-promises-fema-oversight-after-floods,"ICYMI on WJHL: Blackburn Lauds Volunteers, Promises FEMA Oversight After Floods",2024-10-22,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) spoke with WJHL News Channel 11 during her trip to Northeast Tennessee on Friday, where she received an update from local and state officials on repairs following Hurricane Helene: Click here to watch Senator Blackburn’s interview with News Channel 11. Blackburn lauds volunteers, promises FEMA oversight after floods Murry Lee WJHL News Channel 11 U.S. Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) was in Northeast Tennessee surveying damage left by Hurricane Helene on Friday. Blackburn toured damage in parts of Northeast Tennessee like Washington and Greene counties. Blackburn went to the remains of the Highway 107 Kinser Bridge and examined the amount of debris in the area. News Channel 11 spoke with Blackburn in Greene County during a meeting with local leaders like County Mayor Kevin Morrison and EMA Director Heather Sipe. “We are working on flood damage and of course, the response here with the EMA with the mayor, with your local elected officials has really been exemplary,” Blackburn said. “And our team has worked really closely with them. We’re standing up the multi-agency resource centers. We are doing pop-up office hours, and Michael and Kim in our office are working with people to be sure that they recover those Social Security and VA and income tax documents.” Blackburn told News Channel 11 it is critical that people and businesses receive the care and attention required after the natural disaster. “What we want to do is make certain that FEMA stays on the ground, that individuals are able to apply for all the resources that are available to them, and that FEMA processes these claims in a timely manner, whether it is something for the county, for businesses, or for individuals,” she said. Blackburn’s office has also created a web page to direct flood-impacted Tennesseans to resources like FEMA individual assistance and Multi-Agency Resource Centers. The senator also praised the volunteer spirit of Tennessee during her visit. “Tennessee has the best volunteers and the best communities, and people have stepped up,” she said. “I think it is just so inspiring how they’ve come forward with water and food and furniture and clothing, and the communities are partnering up to help everybody in Upper East Tennessee and help them rebuild. We have so many families that have really lost everything.” Blackburn stated that part of the process going forward will be to ensure federal agencies like FEMA and the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) fulfill their obligations in the months to come. “What we will do is just continue,” Blackburn said. “It’s mostly oversight. There will be some funding provisions and we want to make certain that the agencies are funded adequately so that they respond appropriately to the needs that are there in the communities. And then looking at the oversight for how FEMA and the Small Business Administration and DOT, those agencies that respond in times of disaster to make certain that they do that in the proper manner.” RELATED:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://johnrose.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-john-rose-leads-call-urgent-aid-farmers-devastated-helene,Rep. John Rose Leads the Call for Urgent Aid to Farmers Devastated by Helene,2024-10-21,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,TN,John W. Rose,R000612,johnrose.house.gov,johnrose,https://johnrose.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON, DC— Today, U.S. Representative John Rose (TN-06) led a letter with Members of the entire Tennessee Congressional Delegation, U.S. Reps. Diana Harshbarger (TN-01), Tim Burchett (TN-02), Chuck Fleischmann (TN-03), Scott DesJarlais (TN-04), Andy Ogles (TN-05), Mark Green (TN-07), David Kustoff (TN-08), and Steve Cohen (TN-09), as well as Senators Marsha Blackburn and Bill Hagerty, urging U.S. House and Senate leadership to provide meaningful disaster relief for Tennessee farmers in the weeks ahead. Hurricane Helene made landfall in the Big Bend of Florida as a Category 4 storm. While assessments are ongoing, Helene is on track to become one of the deadliest and most devastating hurricanes to hit the United States. In the letter, Members of the Tennessee Delegation highlighted the important role federal agricultural disaster assistance will have in helping Tennessee farmers recover. An excerpt of the letter reads: “In Tennessee, some areas received nearly 10 – 15 inches of rainfall in addition to runoff from surrounding states, drowning crops and littering fields with debris. Ruined ready-to-harvest crops and forage, flooded pastures, equipment loss, and distressed livestock have left farmers questioning how their operations will move forward and how they will provide for their families. Producers, who are already engulfed by the ongoing farm financial crisis, will require meaningful disaster assistance to stand up their operations and continue farming.” Rep. Rose released the following statement: “The Biden-Harris Administration has continuously put American agriculture on the backburner, and it is time for Congress to stand up for farmers and support our most critical industry,” Rep. Rose said. “We must be prepared to use all data and assessments to craft suitable and effective disaster relief legislation for producers.”",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/issues/immigration/blackburn-hagerty-colleagues-call-out-doj-for-refusing-to-provide-answers-on-prosecutions-of-illegal-aliens-registering-to-vote,"Blackburn, Hagerty, Colleagues Call Out DOJ for Refusing to Provide Answers on Prosecutions of Illegal Aliens Registering to Vote",2024-10-21,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) joined Senator Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.) and a group of bicameral colleagues in calling out U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland on the U.S. Department of Justice’s (DOJ) failure to prevent illegal aliens from registering to vote in American elections or prosecute those who evidently have done so: “We are deeply concerned by reports of non-citizens registering to vote and voting in federal elections,” the Members of Congress wrote. “As of today, there has been no response from you or your Department regarding the inquiry on July 12, 2024, seeking information on efforts undertaken by your Department to enforce laws prohibiting non-citizen voting. Given that the 2024 Presidential Election is in less than 34 days, your Department’s inaction and refusal to provide any information regarding its efforts to promote public trust and confidence in our elections is especially alarming.” “Clearly, there is a non-negligible amount of voter participation by non-citizens in federal elections, which is not only a serious threat to the integrity of our elections and the democratic process they represent, but also has the potential to reduce Americans’ trust and confidence in election results,” the Members of Congress continued. BACKGROUND: State officials across the country have recently taken steps to prevent, deter, and investigate cases of illegal voter registration by non-citizens, including in South Carolina, Georgia, Ohio, and Tennessee. Since the Members of Congress sent their initial letter, cases have emerged in Virginia and Texas. CO-SIGNERS: Co-signers of the letter include Senators Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Jim Risch (R-Idaho), Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyo.), Tim Scott (R-S.C.), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), John Thune (R-S.D.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W. Va.), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), Eric Schmitt (R-Mo.), John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Katie Britt (R-Ala.), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Mike Braun (R-Ind.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), John Kennedy (R-La.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), and Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.), along with Representatives Andy Biggs (R-Ariz.), Andy Harris (R-Md.), Clay Higgins (R-La.), Gary Palmer (R-Ala.), Matt Rosendale (R-Mont.), Ralph Norman (R-S.C.), Eli Crane (R-Ariz.), Andy Ogles (R-Tenn.), Aaron Bean (R-Fla.), Josh Brecheen (R-Okla.), Nancy Mace (R-S.C.), Bob Good (R-Va.), Eric Burlison (R-Mo.), Mike Ezell (R-Miss.), Chuck Fleischmann (R-Tenn.), Tom Tiffany (R-Wis.), Lauren Boebert (R-Colo.), Claudia Tenney (R-N.Y.), Michael Guest (R-Miss.), Diana Harshbarger (R-Tenn.), Ben Cline (R-Va.), Chip Roy (R-Texas), Barry Loudermilk (R-Ga.), Mary Miller (R-Ill.), Paul Gosar (R-Ariz.), Lance Gooden (R-Texas.), Jeff Duncan (R-S.C.), Harriet Hageman (R-Wyo.), Barry Moore (R-Ala.), Mike Collins (R-Ga.), Tim Burchett (R-Tenn.), Greg Lopez (R-Colo.), Keith Self (R-Texas), Brian Babin (R-Texas), August Pfluger (R-Texas), Alex Mooney (R-W. Va.), Dusty Johnson (R-S.D.), Randy Weber (R-Texas.), Rich McCormick (R-Ga.), and Matt Gaetz (R-Fla.).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/issues/technology/rebuttal-to-big-tech-s-lies-about-kosa,Rebuttal to Big Tech’s Lies about KOSA,2024-10-21,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"To: Interested Parties Date: October 21, 2024 Re: Rebuttal to Big Tech’s Lies About the Kids Online Safety Act KOSA Does Not Censor Speech Nor Impact the 1st Amendment KOSA would not censor, limit, or remove any content from the internet and it does not give the FTC or state AGs the power to bring lawsuits over content or speech, no matter who it is from. This bill passes First Amendment scrutiny because it is content neutral. Online platforms cannot be held liable for hosting or promoting conservative voices or pro-life views as a result of this bill. The legislation does not include any enforcement powers or obligations related to content or speech. To be clear on Congress’s intent to protect speech, the bill includes an explicit statement that it does not expand or limit Section 230, which provides online platforms broad legal immunities for third-party content. Furthermore, the bill provides legal safeguards to protect users’ ability to view and search for the content that they choose to see. KOSA Does Not Increase The Authority of the Federal Government or FTC It is important to note that there is no new rulemaking power for the FTC in KOSA nor any ability to create rules about content. KOSA gives the FTC clear direction from Congress about how to apply its existing enforcement authorities to protect kids online. Claims that KOSA allows the FTC to decide what kids see online are blatant falsehoods circulated by tech companies trying to stop the bill from becoming law. What Does KOSA’s Duty of Care Actually Do? The bill gives the FTC the ability to hold social media platforms accountable for their product designs – their own predatory business practices and deadly apps. This is the same responsibility and accountability that exists for almost every other industry in America The duty of care simply states that online platforms cannot put products on the market that will cause specific harms to kids, such as suicide and sexual predation. Those harms are specified and defined by Congress, not the FTC. Big Tech will be required to ensure their platforms are safe for kids by default, and not put the burden exclusively on parents. This will also ensure that the protections for kids keep up with changes in technology. KOSA Will Not Require Anyone To Upload ID KOSA does not impose age verification requirements or require platforms to collect more data about users (government IDs or otherwise). In fact, the bill explicitly states that it does not require age gating, age verification, or the collection of additional data. KOSA Protects Churches, Blogs, and News Outlets KOSA covers commercial, online platforms such as social media, social networks, online video games, social messaging applications, and video streaming services, such as Instagram, TikTok, Snapchat, and Roblox. Non-profit organizations, blogs, personal websites, news outlets, churches, broadband companies, etc. are not covered by KOSA. It would not impact the ability of kids to watch online sports, news, or a church sermon. KOSA Gives Parents A Seat At The Table For decades, Big Tech lobbyists and their front groups have dominated the conversation, denying the suffering of American families. The Kids Online Safety Council is a place where parents have a seat across the table from big tech and they can raise the issues they are seeing with their kids. The Council has no rulemaking or enforcement power. KOSA Uses The Same Methods Our Military Utilizes to Define ""Mental Health Disorder” For decades, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, Mental Disorders (DSM) has been used by Congress and states, as well as our military, the VA, and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration. How Can Companies Know Who Is Under 17? Online platforms have been required to provide legal protections to kids for more than two decades under the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA). Just as COPPA has not required age-gating or substantial burdens on business or privacy, neither will KOSA. If an online platform truly doesn’t know the age of the user, then it does not face any obligation under the bill. It is not required online platforms collect more data to determine the user’s age. Click here to download the full memo.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/news/blackburn-rose-tennessee-delegation-call-for-urgent-aide-to-farmers-devastated-by-helene,"Blackburn, Rose, Tennessee Delegation Call for Urgent Aide to Farmers Devastated by Helene",2024-10-21,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.), U.S. Representative John Rose (R-Tenn.), and the entire Tennessee Congressional Delegation sent a letter urging U.S. House and Senate leadership to provide meaningful disaster relief for Tennessee farmers in the weeks ahead. Hurricane Helene made landfall in the Big Bend of Florida as a Category 4 storm. While assessments are ongoing, Helene is on track to become one of the deadliest and most devastating hurricanes to hit the United States. In the letter, Members of the Tennessee Delegation highlighted the important role federal agricultural disaster assistance will have in helping Tennessee farmers recover. “In Tennessee, some areas received nearly 10 – 15 inches of rainfall in addition to runoff from surrounding states, drowning crops and littering fields with debris. Ruined ready-to-harvest crops and forage, flooded pastures, equipment loss, and distressed livestock have left farmers questioning how their operations will move forward and how they will provide for their families,” wrote the Tennessee Delegation. “Producers, who are already engulfed by the ongoing farm financial crisis, will require meaningful disaster assistance to stand up their operations and continue farming.” CO-SIGNERS: The letter was also signed by Senator Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.) and U.S. Reps. Diana Harshbarger (R-Tenn.), Tim Burchett (R-Tenn.), Chuck Fleischmann (R-Tenn.), Scott DesJarlais (R-Tenn.), Andy Ogles (R-Tenn.), Mark Green (R-Tenn.), David Kustoff (R-Tenn.), and Steve Cohen (D-Tenn.).",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/2024/10/news/blackburn-receives-update-on-flooding-repairs-along-nolichucky-river,Blackburn Receives Update on Flooding Repairs Along Nolichucky River,2024-10-19,2024,2024-10,Republican,Senate,TN,Marsha Blackburn,B001243,www.blackburn.senate.gov,blackburn,https://www.blackburn.senate.gov/news/cc8c80c1-d564-4bbb-93a4-f1d772346ae0,scraper,"NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Today, U.S. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) met with local and state officials to receive an update on repairs following the devastating damages caused by Hurricane Helene. In Washington County, Senator Blackburn met with families who have lost loved ones, homes, and businesses during the destruction alongside Governor Bill Lee and Deputy Governor and Commissioner of Transportation for Tennessee Butch Eley. In Greene County, Senator Blackburn received an update on the reconstruction of Kinser Bridge, which was washed away in the Nolichucky River during the storm. “Our staff is working every single day to help people with flood recovery, and right now people are trying to get things cleaned up and cleaned out so they can make assessments about rebuilding and what recovery is going to look like. Our goal at the federal level is to continue to work with FEMA to get these projects completed as quickly as possible. We continue to lift up those who have felt the wrath of this storm in prayer.” – Senator Blackburn Click hereto download this photo of Senator Blackburn, Governor Lee, and First Lady Maria Lee. RELATED:",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://burchett.house.gov/media/press-releases/burchett-introduces-bill-ensure-va-hospitals-have-sexual-assault-nurse,Burchett introduces bill to ensure VA hospitals have sexual assault nurse examiners,2024-10-18,2024,2024-10,Republican,House,TN,Tim Burchett,B001309,burchett.house.gov,burchett,https://burchett.house.gov/media/press-releases,scraper,"KNOXVILLE, Tenn., (Oct. 18, 2024) – Today, U.S. Congressman Tim Burchett (TN-02) introduced the bipartisan Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner in VA Hospitals (SANE) Act. Democrat Reps. Timothy M. Kennedy (NY-26) and Jared Moskowitz (FL-23) and Republican Reps. Nancy Mace (NC-01) and Anna Paulina Luna (FL-13) are co-sponsors. This bill would direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to ensure that sexual assault nurse examiners are employed at certain Department of Veterans Affairs medical facilities. “It’s an awful reality that some of our servicemembers are victims of sexual assault, and we need to make sure they get the care they need in those situations. These people put their safety on the line to protect our country, it’s our duty to care for them in return.” said Rep. Burchett. “VA healthcare must meet the needs of our veterans, especially when it comes to treating and documenting sexual assault,” said Rep. Kennedy. “But far too often, veterans seeking care after sexual assault are turned away. The SANE Act would require at least one practitioner who is qualified to conduct sexual assault forensic examinations at every VA hospital–empowering patients to get the treatment and documentation they need and deserve. This legislation would also direct providers to connect patients with mental health services to help ensure long-term recovery after sexual assault. I applaud Rep. Burchett for his leadership on this issue and call on my colleagues in the House to advance this critical legislation.” “Our veterans deserve the most comprehensive healthcare possible, and that must include examinations and referrals for those who have been sexually assaulted. This is a critical piece of bipartisan legislation to support survivors who have risked their lives in service to our nation, and we owe it to our heroes to make this a priority.” Said Rep. Moskowitz. ""As a survivor, I know how hard it can be to come forward. Less than half of women in the military trust their chain of command to properly handle reports of sexual assault — and that’s unacceptable. The SANE Act is about fixing this broken system. We’re making sure VA hospitals have the resources and trained professionals survivors need, so women and girls aren’t left to fend for themselves. It’s time we start holding people accountable and ensure no survivor is abandoned by the system."" Said Rep. Mace. ""We must ensure that Veterans who have suffered through traumatic sexual violence are heard and receive the support and justice they deserve. I am proud to back Congressman Burchett's legislation to protect their well-being,"" said Congresswoman Luna. ""Nurse examiners who focus on sexual assault victims are crucial in providing the necessary forensic examinations for these survivors. We must guarantee this vital care within our VA medical facilities."" Said Rep. Luna.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-cohen-endorses-oversight-committee-conclusion-trump,Congressman Cohen Endorses Oversight Committee Conclusion that Trump Violated Constitutional Prohibitions with Hotel Payments,2024-10-18,2024,2024-10,Democrat,House,TN,Steve Cohen,C001068,cohen.house.gov,cohen,https://cohen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases,scraper,"WASHINGTON – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9), a senior member of the Judiciary Committee who led early efforts to find President Trump in violation of the Constitution’s emoluments clauses when Trump was in office, today welcomed the House Oversight Committee’s conclusion that Trump accepted “ethically suspect payments” through his lease of the Trump International Hotel. As early as November 2017, Congressman Cohen cited violations of the Constitution’s emoluments clauses in his H.Res. 621 Articles of Impeachment against Trump. In April 2019, Congressman Cohen led a letter with 40 House members asking Appropriations Committee members to include language prohibiting the use of federal funds at businesses owned by President Trump. In January 2020, Congressman Cohen questioned General Services Administration Administrator Emily Murphy at a hearing on the GSA lease of the “Trump Old Post Office Hotel,” then known as the Trump International Hotel, and questioned other witnesses at a follow-up hearing. Legislatively, starting in 2017 and continuing throughout Donald Trump’s term, Congressman Cohen offered amendments to appropriations bills, expressly blocking federal funds from being used to support Trump Organization properties. Congressman Cohen made the following statement: “Today’s House Oversight Committee report confirms what we all knew about the grifter-in-chief and his corrupt misuse of office. Trump’s undisguised, brazen and unethical behavior was on display through all four years of his presidency, and was so overt I sought Articles of Impeachment against him soon after he took office. People need to know the character of the man who seeks to return to the Oval Office. The Oversight Committee report is a damning indictment of a corrupt and unqualified fraud.” See Congressman Cohen’s 2019 questioning of hearing witnesses about Trump’s lease of the Old U.S. Post Office Building here and here.",1,2026-03-30T01:40:41Z,2026-04-07T21:57:20Z