Scalise: House GOP Moving Forward with One Reconciliation Bill

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steve Scalise (1st District of Louisiana)

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.) joined Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.), House Majority Whip Tom Emmer (R-Minn.), Conference Chairwoman Lisa McClain (R-Mich.), and Congressman Abe Hamadeh (R-Ariz.) to discuss House Republicans’ reconciliation bill, which will receive a markup on Thursday. Additionally, Leader Scalise highlighted the Agent Raul Gonzalez Officer Safety Act, legislation on the floor this week focused on further preventing dangerous criminals from getting away with crime at the border.

Click here or the image above to view Leader Scalise’s full remarks. 
On President Trump’s record pace upon returning to office:“We are just getting started, and it’s a new day, and you’re already seeing the benefits of President Trump’s aggressive approach towards turning Washington back to the people, standing up for the people of this country that have been beaten down that have been struggling under the failed policies of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris for the last four years. It’s been at a rapid pace. If you compare Donald Trump’s first month in office in 2017 to what you’re seeing today, you’re watching a much more focused and aggressive president who came to Washington to finally stand up and fight for those families who have been struggling. He’s taking the lessons from his first term in delivering bigger results, faster results for the American people.”On the House’s reconciliation plan that helps secure our border:“If you look at some of the things we’re working on right now, obviously, the budget is something you may ask the Speaker about, I don’t know, maybe one or two questions, but it’s something we’ve been spending a lot of time on because it is the way that we’re going to be delivering some of the biggest commitments that were made during the election. Some of the biggest things that President Trump wants to accomplish are included in our reconciliation plan.“If you think about it, there are a lot of bills out there, a lot of ideas out there. There’s only one plan that delivers all of the commitments and priorities that President Trump has, and that’s the House plan. If you think about what we’re trying to do with first getting a budget, then getting a reconciliation bill. It’s going to be to deliver for border security, making sure that we can build the wall, making sure that we give our Border Patrol Agents the tools they need, night vision goggles, other technology like drones so that they can more safely and effectively protect and secure America’s border from the massive flow of illegals that we saw the last four years.”On House Republicans’ focus on championing American energy and preventing tax hikes:“We’re going to produce more American energy. Yes, in the Gulf of America, in ANWR, and every point in between, we’re going to deliver in that big, beautiful bill more American energy that was shut off by the Biden administration, who coddled foreign countries, made us more dependent on foreign energy, we’re going to reverse that and allow our country to deliver again. Not just creating more jobs, not just lowering costs for families at the pump and at the grocery store, which it will do, but allowing us to be energy independent again and help our allies around the world again. Exporting LNG, for example, when Biden said no to that, we’re going to be saying yes, which, again, lowers costs here at home.“Then we’re going to ensure that there are no Americans that see a tax increase. If Biden got his way, if Kamala Harris got her way, if the Democrats who are in the minority got their way, the American people would see a multi-trillion dollar tax increase. House Republicans are not going to let that happen. That’s part of our bill is to continue the tax cuts from 2017, keeping those rates stable, adding on the priorities that President Trump talked about in the campaign, like no tax on tips, and giving real certainty to our economy to create more jobs, to bring more investment into America. That’s what we’re fighting to do, and we’re going to deliver. The budget chairman indicated they may go as early as Thursday of this week in the Budget Committee to start this process. But we’re not going to stop working on this until it gets done. Failure is not an option.”On the Agent Raul Gonzalez Officer Safety Act:“We’re also going to continue bringing bills to the floor, and I think you heard [Chairwoman] Lisa McClain talk in detail about the bills we’re bringing. Look, when you think about this idea of illegals coming here, fleeing law enforcement and the harm it’s caused, deaths it’s caused to Border Patrol Agents and others, finally bringing a bill to make that a deportable offense. That’s a bill that got a lot of bipartisan votes last year when we brought it, but Chuck Schumer said he wasn’t going to even allow it to come up for a vote last year. Well, again, it’s a new day in the Senate, and Senator Thune and his majority are going to bring that bill to the floor when we send it over to him, and that will have a really good chance of getting to President Trump’s desk, like the Laken Riley Act, where the President will be able to sign more legislation just in his first weeks in office to deliver on those promises of securing America’s border.”

Scalise: House Republicans Will Unify Behind One Reconciliation Bill

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steve Scalise (1st District of Louisiana)

WASHINGTON, D.C.—House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.) joined CNBC’s Squawk Box to discuss House Republicans’ plans for one reconciliation bill that extends President Trump’s tax cuts and prevents the largest tax hike in American history. Additionally, he noted that the reconciliation bill will eliminate waste, maximize American energy investments, and reform Medicaid to stop fraud.

Click here or the image above to view Leader Scalise’s full interview. 
On House Republicans passing legislation to bolster President Trump’s agenda:“There’s a lot of good things in store. Every step of the way since President Trump was sworn in now in his second term, we’ve been working with them very closely on the things they’re doing, clearly with what the DOGE is doing. We’re working because some of those items are going to have to be done legislatively to get rid of that wasteful spending, but also on what we’re going to do to get our economy growing again. That’s really where we get into these budget talks and ultimately the budget reconciliation process to lock in the Trump tax cuts, many of which are expiring at the end of this year. We sure don’t want to see a massive four-and-a-half trillion dollar tax increase. So we have legislation to prevent that. To produce more energy in America, some of that takes legislative action. Clearly, we’re working with President Trump on what he wants to do to open up more energy in America. That’s going to bring in more revenue, by the way, create more jobs, lower costs for families so that you can lower inflation.“Build the wall. President Trump needs funding to build out the wall, to give more technology to our Border Patrol agents like drones, like night vision goggles, so they can better secure our border. That’s going to be in this bill that we’re putting together as well. A lot of work has been going on behind the scenes for weeks now, but it’s time to put that down on paper, start getting the committees directly involved in working so that we can move this legislation forward. Yes, one bill.”On the need to unify House Republicans around budget reconciliation:“Yeah, and [the smaller margins are] what’s so different about this year than 2017. You think back, we lost, as you pointed out, 22 Republicans just on the budget before we could even get to the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, which really revolutionized our country, made our country competitive economically again. Before we could even bring that bill to the floor, we had to pass the budget first, losing 22 Republicans. This time around, we can’t lose two Republicans. One, maybe, not even two. “We’re working very closely with all of our members. As you know, not all of our members see everything the same way. We’re having a lot of meetings with a whole cross-section of members. They’re given a lot of input. They’ve got their ideas, but ultimately, we’ve got to bring all those ideas together and put it in one bill, and then everybody’s got to vote for that one bill. We’re getting closer. We’ve narrowed a lot of those differences over the last few weeks, but we still have one or two final pieces left. I think we’re getting closer on narrowing those as well, then we can move the bill out of committee.”On eliminating the waste of hard-earned taxpayer dollars and maximizing American investment:“Yeah, those [numbers] are the things that are being negotiated. We’re already all the way up to a trillion dollars and more in identified cuts and savings to taxpayers. I’m talking about common sense things like social security verification in some of our big programs. I mean, you’ve got illegal aliens getting major benefits, Medicaid, which they’re not even legally eligible to get because there’s not enough verification. So you’ve got a program that’s potentially headed for bankruptcy for people who actually paid into it, who deserve to get that benefit. And yet there are thousands of illegal aliens that are getting on that program, costing it billions of dollars that shouldn’t even be on it. That’s going to be something we go after. Work requirements is another thing. So you can get up to some really big money, billions here, billions there. It adds up quickly. But ultimately, then you also have to count in economic growth, because if we lock in the tax cuts from 2017, which really got our economy moving, created millions of jobs.“There’s a lot of uncertainty right now in the economy. I’m sure you can see it. People don’t want to make investments because, for example, the 199A goes away. That’s a big deduction for small business owners so that they get an equalized tax rate as our corporations do. If you take that away, every small and medium-sized business in America becomes uncompetitive. You can’t let that happen, but that creates uncertainty. If we lock these rates in, it’ll bring a lot more investment into the economy. If you open up more American energy, it brings billions more investment into America’s economy. That growth also factors into offsetting this bill so that it becomes deficit-neutral.”On DOGE rooting out the mess left behind by the Biden-Harris administration:“Well, we’re looking at different things. Obviously, work requirements in Medicaid is the place you would start. And as you pointed out, even going back to COVID, Medicaid mushroomed exponentially, adding millions more people onto the program that were not on it before. That had private insurance, other forms of insurance. And now the taxpayers of America are picking up that tab. Again, when we’re running deficits to be adding more people onto government programs and taking them off of private sector insurance, it doesn’t make a lot of sense. Obviously, that was done when the government was spending trillions of dollars under the Biden-Harris administration, and that drove inflation. That drove a lot of the high costs you pay at the grocery store in other places. People want us to get that under control. We’re working to get that under control. I think it’s why people are really excited about what the DOGE is doing to find savings, identifying a lot of this ludicrous spending at so many of these federal agencies that are not working for the American people, federal workers who aren’t even showing up to work, yet getting paid over $100,000 a year, while American citizens have to show up for their job. These are the disparities that people are fed up with that are finally being addressed.“Elon Musk feels he can get up to a trillion dollars, which is separate than the trillion we’re working on and more. We’re looking at other things beyond a trillion dollars, but we’re at least there.“There’s a lot going on, but get used to it. This is how President Trump works. He came back on the second term really focused. You all are going to be able to handle it, but we’re going to deliver a lot of results for hardworking families.”

Congressman Harris Statement on Post Pandemic Food for Schools Program

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Andy Harris (MD-01)

Washington DC — Congressman Harris Released the Following Statement on the Food for Schools Program in Maryland.

“As a pandemic-era program, the Local Food for Schools Program was originally authorized as a “one-time” program in the COVID-era American Rescue Plan – but the Biden administration then unilaterally decided to just keep funding despite a $2 trillion deficit. Now that COVID is over, we should turn to other existing USDA programs whose funds can be used to buy local fruits and vegetables for schools – if the local school system chooses to use those funds in that way. Nothing prevents a state or local school from using their money from these other USDA programs to buy foods from local farmers if they choose to do so, but we have to move past COVID-era spending.”

Congressman Harris Announces Telephone Hall For Tuesday, March 25th

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Andy Harris (MD-01)

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Andy Harris, M.D. (MD-01), will hold a telephone town hall on Tuesday, March 25, 2025. Please see below for key details.  

Important Details: 

Date: Tuesday, March 25, 2025

Time: 5:30-6:30pm

Listen In: 833-380-0671

Stream Live: Live | Congressman Andy Harris

Questions about the event can be directed to Congressman Harris’ DC office at (202) 225-5311. Constituents who wish to be removed from the call list should contact Congressman Harris’s DC office.
For media inquiries, please contact Anna Adamian at Anna.A@mail.house.gov

Chairman Harris Announces A $416 Million Army Contract to Hardwire, LLC In Worcester County

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Andy Harris (MD-01)

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Andy Harris, M.D., Chairman of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, and Food and Drug Administration released the following statement announcing a $416 million Army contract to Hardwire, LLC in Worcester County. 

Hardwire, LLC is a manufacturer of armored systems headquartered in Pocomoke City, MD. Hardwire manufactures products used in military vehicles, police and tactical units, helicopters, commercial vehicles, and U.S. transportation infrastructure. The contract procures the production of Vital Torso Protection (VTP) Lares Small Arms Protective Inserts (LSAPI).

Statement From Chairman Harris:

“I am pleased to announce that the Army has awarded a $416 million contract to Hardwire, LLC — a homegrown company here on the Eastern Shore. For decades, Hardwire has facilitated the expansion of business in my district through their innovative products that protect military, police, and our communities. I look forward to watching the important work of Hardwire through this critical Army investment which advances the readiness, lethality, and protection of the American warfighter.” 

For media inquiries, please contact Anna Adamian at Anna.A@mail.house.gov

Congressman Harris Statement on Senate Passage of Continuing Resolution

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Andy Harris (MD-01)

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Andy Harris, M.D., released the following statement after the Senate passed the Continuing Resolution and averted a government shutdown. 

Statement From Congressman Harris:

“Conservatives are united, winning, and ready to deliver on President Trump’s agenda like never before. For the first time in my fourteen years in Congress, we were able to pass a Continuing Resolution that freezes spending while still funding our military, Veterans, and other important programs. Thanks to President Trump for leading the way and to my House Freedom Caucus colleagues for delivering a massive victory for the American people in the House this week. Congress now has runway to work on reconciliation so we can deliver on key parts of the President’s agenda and address our spending crisis.”

For media inquiries, please contact Anna Adamian at Anna.A@mail.house.gov

Chairman Harris Supports Pause Of USDA Funds To University Over Refusal To Protect Women’s Sports

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Andy Harris (MD-01)

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Andy Harris, M.D., Chairman of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, and Food and Drug Administration, issued the following statement after the Trump Administration’s pause of federal U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) funds to the University of Maine (UMS) over their refusal to protect women.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has determined that the state and its Department of Education have violated Title IX by allowing transgender athletes to compete in women’s sports. This funding pause comes as the USDA reviews potential Title IX violations by the university. 

Statement From Chairman Harris:

“As Chairman of the House Appropriations USDA subcommittee, I fully support pausing any disbursement of funds to the University of Maine System pending investigations of federal civil rights policy violations. Women and Girl’s sports must be protected from woke identity politics.”

For media inquiries, please contact Anna Adamian at Anna.A@mail.house.gov

Kaptur Joins Bipartisan Ohio Delegation Letter Advocating for NASA HQ to Relocate to Northern Ohio

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09)

WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09) joined Congressman Max Miller (OH-07), Senator Jon Husted (R-OH), and other members of the Ohio Congressional Delegation in sending a letter to Vice President JD Vance and NASA Administrator Designate Jared Isaacman, highlighting a significant opportunity to enhance the effectiveness, efficiency, and fiscal responsibility of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) by relocating NASA Headquarters from Washington, DC to Northern Ohio. 

“The incoming administration has signaled a commitment to reshaping the federal workforce by moving administrative agencies out of Washington, DC, promoting a return-to-office culture, and improving government efficiency. A relocation of NASA HQ aligns with these objectives by encouraging in-person collaboration while reducing unnecessary federal overhead costs,” wrote the Ohio delegation. 

“Ohio is the historical home of aviation and ideally suited to lead NASA into the next frontier of both Aeronautics functions and Space Exploration as you lead this agency through its remarkable transformation,” the letter continued

The full text of the letter is available by clicking here

Joining Congresswoman Kaptur, Congressman Miller, and Senator Husted were: Senator Bernie Moreno (R-OH), Congressman Troy Balderson (OH-12), Congressman Mike Carey (OH-15), Congressman Warren Davidson (OH-08), Congressman Jim Jordan (OH-04), Congressman Dave Joyce (OH-14), Congressman Bob Latta (OH-05), Congressman Michael Rulli (OH-06), Congressman Dave Taylor (OH-02), and Congressman Mike Turner (OH-10). 

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Kaptur Statement on the Passing of Congressman Raul Grijalva

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09)

Washington, DC — Today, Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09) released the following statement on the passing of Congressman Raul Grijalva (AZ-07):

“It is with heavy heart, that I extend deepest sympathy to the treasured family, staff, and constituents of Congressman Raul Grijalva. Representative Grijalva was like no other — an exceptional, unforgettable human being shaped by hard scrabble economic struggle long before he ever was elected to Congress.

“To meet him was to meet a wise man. He was imbued with the spirit of justice for the common people. His persevering journey embraced the bitter harvest and aspirations of laboring people who toil until this day across our continent in the blazing sun from dawn until dusk. His exceptional stamina in addressing continental labor injustices of field and farm workers is legendary.

“His advocacy gave hope even during the most bitter times. The glint in his eye revealed a deep grasp of the potential for the betterment of the human condition. To that noble end, he dedicated his precious life in hopes that those who follow will soon lift higher the torch of social and economic justice plowing the path forward for all farm workers and laboring people.

“Rest in peace my friend, we will continue the hard work in your honor.”

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Kaptur Statement On Senate Passage Of Government Funding Legislation

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09)

Washington, DC – Today, Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09) released the following statement upon Senate passage of H.R. 1968, the Continuing Appropriations Act. This legislation will fund government operations through September 30, 2025, while making deep cuts to critical programs and projects that are important to people across Northwest Ohio.

“We all share the same hopes and deep concerns about the future of our country and communities across our region of Northwest Ohio. The votes this week in Congress to fund key programs that benefit millions of America’s working families are extremely consequential. I voted against this shortsighted funding legislation because it takes funding away from local law enforcement, schools, seniors, Social Security, and other key programs and agencies that are of major importance to our region and our nation.

“The legislation passed today cuts $1.4 Billion from the Army Corps of Engineers almost half of their funding, putting over 1,000 projects, including ones that keep our Bridges, Great Lakes, harbors, ports, and waterways safe. It slashes $20 Million from emergency food assistance, leaving 25,000 seniors wondering where their next meal will come from. It forces the firing of thousands of Social Security Administration workers across our country, making it harder for seniors and disabled Ohioans to access the benefits they’ve worked hard for and earned throughout their lives. And for all their talk about ‘law and order,’ this bill cuts nearly $600 Million from local law enforcement. Less money for police means fewer officers on the streets and fewer resources to keep our communities safe.

“I supported hard fought House efforts to pass legislation that will meet the true needs of our people — for decent, affordable medical care and pharmaceuticals, maintain our enduring commitment to Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, and to fund health care and nursing home care for our veterans. Unfortunately, the one-sided bill that passed the House of Representatives by 3 votes earlier this week, and passed the Senate this evening by 8 votes is NOT such a bill.

“All the critical accounts that support America’s families to make ends meet are deeply shaved to make it easier to transfer Billions of dollars to the top 1% and the Billionaires in our nation. This legislation makes it easier for the Republican majority to give them massive tax cuts of over $330,000 dollars per year. This is plain wrong when hospitals and nursing homes across America will shut their doors as a result. Social Security will be weakened as necessary staff is cut in half, and millions of war veterans suffering from toxic exposure will be refused care for complex cancers.

“We can and we must do so much more for those across our country calling out for help, and a hand up, not a handout. I will continue to fight for all Ohioans and the American people, and call on those in Congress to grow a spine, and the courage to join me in the battles ahead.”

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