Author: MIL-OSI Publisher

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative David Kustoff (TN-08)

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Reps. David Kustoff (R-TN), Troy Balderson (R-OH), Donald Davis (D-NC), and Mark Pocan (D-WI) introduced the Rural Patient Monitoring (RPM) Access Act in the House of Representatives. This bill would ensure high-quality remote physiologic monitoring services for Medicare beneficiaries in rural and underserved areas.

“Expanding access to healthcare in rural West Tennessee has been a priority of mine in Washington,” said Congressman Kustoff.  “The RPM Access Act is important legislation that will help doctors and nurses monitor patients remotely. I urge my colleagues to support this bill to help provide Americans with good-quality healthcare no matter their location.”

Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) and Mark Warner (D-VA) introduced the companion bill in the United States Senate. 

“Medicare beneficiaries in rural and underserved areas often face serious barriers to health care, and they deserve better,” said Senator Blackburn. “The Rural Patient Monitoring Access Act would ensure Tennessee Medicare patients have access to high-quality remote physiologic monitoring services to manage chronic conditions and help patients eliminate unnecessary hospital visits.”

Background:
Remote physiologic monitoring (RPM) is the use of digital technologies to collect health data from patients in one location and electronically transmit that information securely to providers in a different location. Medicare patients living in rural areas face higher rates of heart failure, hypertension, and diabetes compared to patients in urban areas – and they have limited access to health care. Remote monitoring can help address this barrier to access. However, Medicare reimbursement for remote physiologic monitoring is lowest in the rural areas it is needed most.

The RPM Access Act would set the floor for practice expense and malpractice geographic indices for remote physiologic monitoring services at 1.00, allowing rural areas to be able to provide RPM services at the national average. The legislation would also create new requirements to ensure high-quality services for Medicare. These requirements include: 

• RPM providers must be capable of responding to data anomalies detected by the monitoring service.
• RPM providers must be capable of promptly transmitting captured vitals and treatment management notes to the electronic health record of the supervising provider.
• CMS may require providers of RPM to report data to the Secretary of HHS in order to facilitate the evaluation of cost savings generated to the Medicare program through the proliferation of remote physiologic monitoring services.

Click here to read the full text of the bill. 
 

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative David Kustoff (TN-08)

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Reps. David Kustoff (R-TN) and Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL) introduced the Holocaust Insurance Accountability Act in the House of Representatives. This bipartisan legislation would allow beneficiaries of Holocaust-era insurance policies to bring civil action in U.S. district courts against the insurer for the covered policy to recover proceeds due or otherwise enforce any rights under the policy. 

“On Holocaust Remembrance Day, we remember the 6 million Jews and millions of others who lost their lives at the hands of the evil Nazi regime,” said Congressman Kustoff. “As we reflect on that dark time in our history, we must do all we can to ensure the surviving victims and their families have the support they need. I am proud to introduce the Holocaust Insurance Accountability Act to help beneficiaries of Holocaust-era insurance policies work to recover these unpaid claims. May we never forget the atrocities that occurred during the Holocaust and work to give victims the care they rightfully deserve.” 

Background:
The Holocaust Insurance Accountability Act allows a beneficiary (or an heir of a beneficiary) of certain insurance policies in effect during the Holocaust to sue in U.S. district court to enforce rights under such policies. 

• An insurance policy covered under this bill must have been (1) in effect at any time between January 31, 1933, and December 31, 1945, and (2) issued to a policyholder domiciled in Nazi-controlled territory or Switzerland.
• A court shall award to a prevailing beneficiary (1) the amount due under a policy, (2) prejudgment interest of 6% a year, (3) attorney’s fees and costs, and (4) treble damages if the insurer acted in bad faith.
• An action under this bill or state law related to a covered insurance policy shall be considered timely if filed within 10 years of this bill’s enactment.
• Judgments and agreements entered before this bill’s enactment shall not preclude a claim brought under the bill, with certain exceptions. Neither executive agreements between the United States and a foreign government nor U.S. executive foreign policies shall (1) affect or preclude claims brought under this bill, or (2) supersede or preempt any state laws relating to insurance policies covered by this bill.

Click here for the full text of the bill. 
 

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative David Kustoff (TN-08)

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman David Kustoff (R-TN) hosted the 2025 Congressional Art Competition reception at the West Tennessee Regional Art Center in Gibson County. At the reception, Congressman Kustoff announced the winner, Maggie Wright from the University School of Jackson. 

“Congratulations to Maggie Wright from the University School of Jackson for winning the Eighth Congressional District’s 2025 Congressional Art Competition,” said Congressman Kustoff. “Each year, I am impressed by West Tennessee’s talented student artists. I look forward to seeing Maggie’s piece, ‘Tennessee Scenes’, hang in the United States Capitol for the next year.”

The Congressional Art Competition takes place each year and is open to all high school students in the Eighth Congressional District. Click here for more information.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Bennie G Thompson (D-MS)

May 6, 2025

Washington, D.C. – Today, Rep. Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS) released the following statement on threats against Tougaloo College following Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett’s commencement address: “It is unfortunate that a day of celebration at Tougaloo College was met with attempts by extremists to overshadow the moment and intimidate those in attendance.  Their threats, aimed at undermining Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett’s powerful commencement address, failed.  The Tougaloo community remains proud, strong, and unmoved. “Tougaloo College is known around the world and has long been an agent for change during some of our nation’s most difficult times.  Congresswoman Crockett is one of the most sought-after voices in the U.S. House of Representatives, and we were honored to have her speak. “I stand in solidarity with the Tougaloo community and commend Congresswoman Crockett for her inspiring message to the graduates. Under no circumstances will we be intimidated by fear.”

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Bennie G Thompson (D-MS)

May 8, 2025

BOLTON, MS – Today, Congressman Bennie G. Thompson (MS-02) announced that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has awarded two significant grants totaling more than $12.7 million to support Head Start programs in Mississippi’s Second Congressional District. The grants are awarded as follows: Hinds County Human Resource Agency – $9,595,720 Funding supports comprehensive early childhood education, health, nutrition, and parent involvement services under the Head Start program. Coahoma Opportunities, Inc. – $3,122,149 This grant will enable continued operation and enhancement of Head Start services in Coahoma County and surrounding communities. “These grants represent a vital investment in the future of our children and families,” said Congressman Thompson. “Early childhood education lays the foundation for lifelong success, and I am proud to support programs that ensure every child—regardless of their zip code—has access to quality care and education.”

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Bennie G Thompson (D-MS)

May 8, 2025

BOLTON, MS – Congressman Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS) today announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation has awarded more than $2.4 million in federal funds to support airport improvement projects in communities across Mississippi’s Second Congressional District. The grants, awarded through the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) FY25 Airport Infrastructure Grant (AIG) program, will fund critical upgrades to improve safety, efficiency, and operations at six local airports. “These grants are meaningful investments in our district’s infrastructure,” said Congressman Thompson. “They help ensure our local airports can continue serving travelers, businesses, and emergency responders effectively while supporting jobs and economic growth right here at home.” The following airports will receive FAA funding: Indianola Municipal Airport– $448,310 Rehabilitates 5,000 feet of the existing access road to extend its useful life. (Applicant: City of Indianola)   Vicksburg Municipal Airport– $76,000 Replaces an aging emergency generator to ensure reliable airport power and prevent outages. (Applicant: City of Vicksburg)   John Bell Williams Airport – $855,000 Constructs three new 3,900 sq. ft. box hangars for aircraft storage to generate airport revenue and support self-sufficiency. (Applicant: Hinds Community College-Raymond)   Greenville Mid-Delta Airport– $380,000 Installs new cured-in-place pipes to improve structural integrity and bring the airport up to code. (Applicant: City of Greenville)   Cleveland Municipal Airport– $282,000 Supports Phase 3 construction of a 12,000 sq. ft. aircraft hangar and reimburses work completed in June 2024. (Applicant: City of Cleveland)   Yazoo County Airport  – $409,450 Reconstructs sod shoulders on Runway 17/35 to improve drainage and meet federal safety grading standards. (Applicant: County of Yazoo)

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (3rd District of Ohio)

I’m saddened by the passing of Pope Francis—a powerful voice for peace, tolerance, and stewardship of the Earth as our common home.

 

By centering the needs of the poor and marginalized and urging us to protect our planet, he exemplified the power of leadership to uplift both people and the world we share. His bold condemnation of racism as “an intolerable sin” challenged us all to pursue justice and compassion.

 

As we grieve this profound loss, may we honor his memory by continuing his mission of mercy, equality, and care for creation and all of humanity.

 

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (3rd District of Ohio)

WASHINGTON, DC – On Tuesday, May 6, Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (D-OH-03) and Congresswoman Young Kim (R-CA-40), Co-Chairs of the Financial Literacy and Wealth Creation Caucus, hosted a free, bipartisan Financial Education Resource Fair on Capitol Hill. The event connected members of the public, Congressional staff and community stakeholders with trusted financial tools and expert guidance to promote financial security and wealth-building.

Representatives from more than 30 government agencies, nonprofits, and financial institutions were on hand to share strategies and resources on topics such as savings, budgeting, credit and debt management, retirement planning, investing, and fraud protection.

According to the 2024 Consumer Financial Literacy and Preparedness Survey by the National Foundation for Credit Counseling, 80 percent of adults in the United States say they could benefit from additional guidance on everyday financial questions. Additionally, data from the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) shows that at least 14.2 percent of U.S. households—nearly 19 million—are unbanked or underbanked, lacking access to essential services like savings, lending, and other basic financial tools.

The event began with opening remarks from Congresswoman Beatty and Congresswoman Kim.  

“Every American deserves the knowledge and tools to navigate our financial system and make it work for them,” said Congresswoman Joyce Beatty. “That’s why I’m grateful to the organizations that joined us today to support attendees in their pursuit of financial education and empowerment. With the help of nonprofits, financial institutions, and government agencies committed to financial literacy, the Financial Literacy and Wealth Creation Caucus is equipping Americans to achieve financial stability, grow wealth, and move closer to financial freedom.”

“Financial literacy is a lifelong journey,” said Congresswoman Young Kim. “I appreciate stakeholders joining us to share vital resources to help attendees learn more about financial education as we celebrate Financial Literacy Month. As Financial Literacy and Wealth Creation Caucus co-chair, I’ll keep working with bipartisan colleagues and the Trump administration on policies that help Americans grow their credit, get a leg up, and achieve the American Dream.” 

 

“CFP Board applauds the Financial Literacy and Wealth Creation Caucus, and Co-Chairs Kim and Beatty, for bringing together key leaders committed to advancing financial education and literacy initiatives,” said Erin Koeppel, Managing Director of Government Relations and Public Policy Counsel at CFP Board. “Through our work to expand access to competent and ethical financial planning, CFP Board and CFP® professionals across the country share the caucus’ goal of expanding access to financial guidance and helping more Americans understand the resources available to them.”

 

“PBS LearningMedia is committed to helping students acquire knowledge and build the real-world skills they need to thrive in school and life. Interactives and games are powerful tools that make financial literacy both fun and meaningful.  We are honored that our work supports the goals of Representatives Young Kim and Joyce Beatty, the Financial Literacy and Wealth Creation Caucus co-chairs.  By challenging students to think critically about financial decisions in an engaging, story-driven format, PBS LearningMedia resources help drive deeper learning that sticks,” Lori Brittain, Vice President PBS LearningMedia.

“First Command is committed to providing all U.S. service members – and their families — the financial tools they need to attain financial readiness and stability,” said First Command CEO Mark Steffe.“Ensuring military spouses can obtain employment and create a financial roadmap for their family is equally important, and we appreciate the diligent work the Congressional Financial Literacy and Wealth Creation Caucus performs in this endeavor. Today’s event highlights the important steps being taken to improve the livelihoods of our servicemembers, and we look forward to a long-lasting partnership with the Caucus.”

 

“TIAA is committed to securing retirements for millions more American workers, especially at a time when 45% of U.S. households are projected to run short of money in retirement. A greater understanding of how much monthly income a worker will need to replace to last throughout retirement is key to a secure financial future,” said Chris Spence, Head of Government Relations and Public Policy at TIAA. “We appreciate today’s event and collaboration with the Congressional Financial Literacy and Wealth Creation Caucus, particularly Representatives Beatty and Kim, for supporting increased access to financial education, literacy, and retirement savings resources.”

 

About the Congressional Financial Literacy and Wealth Creation Caucus

The Financial Literacy and Wealth Creation Caucus endeavors to provide Americans with the tools and resources necessary for economic stability, wealth generation, and prosperity. This caucus develops and advocates for comprehensive, result-driven strategies that empower individuals to make sound financial decisions, achieve their economic objectives, and secure a robust financial foundation for themselves and future generations. The caucus aims to promote education, policy development, and public-private collaboration to advance financial literacy.

 

For the full list of participating organizations, click HERE.

For additional photos from the event, click HERE

For video of Rep. Beatty’s remarks, click HERE.

For inquiries, please contact Christine Thompson at Christine.Thompson@mail.house.gov.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (3rd District of Ohio)

WASHINGTON, DC – In a tense exchange during today’s House Financial Services Committee hearing, Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (OH-03) confronted Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent on two critical issues: enforcement gaps in the Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) rule and the years-long delay of the Harriet Tubman $20 bill.

When asked whether the BOI rule applied to U.S. nationals, Secretary Bessent responded, “No, ma’am. I am saying that we have bifurcated it, that U.S. nationals do not have to file and that foreign nationals do.”

Rep. Beatty pushed back:

“If we’re limiting enforcement of the rule just to the foreign entities, that creates a giant loophole whereby any foreign entity can register in the United States and evade or not do the BOI reporting requirements… It makes it easier for human and drug traffickers, cartels, terrorists, organizations, and other criminals to do business in the United States.”

 

She then asked for an update on the Harriet Tubman $20 bill. Secretary Bessent replied:

“Uh, no, ma’am. I, I can’t, but my staff will get back to you.”

 

To which Beatty responded:

“I want you to get back to me, because see, there seems to be an issue when it comes to things that affect people of color or people who live in poverty… My staff person didn’t ask them the question. I did.”

When the Chairman attempted to move on, Rep. Beatty stood her ground:

“I will not stop. I will not be silenced… I am a member of the United States Congress… I’m not gonna stop this morning until you respond to me.”

Watch the heated exchange HERE. 

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (3rd District of Ohio)

Rep. Joyce Beatty Announces the Winners of the 2025 OH-03 Congressional Art Competition; Lauds the Creative Advocacy of All Student Participants