CONGRESSMAN BISHOP OPPOSES HOUSE REPUBLICAN BILL THAT FAILS TO LOWER HEALTHCARE INSURANCE PREMIUMS FOR MILLIONS OF AMERICANS

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Sanford D Bishop Jr (GA-02)

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) opposed, H.R. 6703, a bill prepared by U.S. House Republican leaders that fails to extend Affordable Care Act (ACA) tax credits. Without Congressional action to extend the credits before December 31, the cost of health insurance could double or triple and make it unaffordable for 20 million Americans. This includes 92,000 people in Georgia’s Second Congressional District who will see their monthly premiums drastically increase next month.

“I have always been open to working across the aisle to improve healthcare for Americans. I know that many Republican colleagues agree that Affordable Care Act tax credits should be maintained for hardworking Americans,” said Congressman Bishop. “Unfortunately, today’s bill is a bait and switch, professing lower costs but really delivering less care. It would allow healthcare plans that destabilize the insurance market, offer patients less protection, and leave patients with big medical bills not covered by insurance.”

“Sadly, House Republican leaders forced a vote on today’s bill and prevented Democrats and Republicans from putting forward a bipartisan solution to this crisis. Without extending the ACA tax credits, Georgians are going to be hit with sticker shock as their health insurance costs skyrocket in January,” added Congressman Bishop. “They will not be able to pay the high cost and will be forced to drop coverage.”

The much-needed ACA tax credits are being allowed to expire by Republican leaders to help pay for permanent tax breaks for billionaires that were included in H.R. 1, the “big, ugly bill” which was passed and signed into law by President Trump in July.

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CONGRESSMAN BISHOP VOTES TO UPHOLD THE CONSTITUTION AND REIN IN UNAUTHORIZED MILITARY ACTION IN THE CARIBBEAN & VENEZUELA

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Sanford D Bishop Jr (GA-02)

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) voted for two War Powers resolutions that were introduced to halt the ongoing use of military force by the Trump Administration in the Caribbean without Congressional authorization. To date, President Trump has ordered airstrikes on at least 23 vessels, killing at least 86 civilians. He also threatened military action against Venezuela.

“For many months, Democrats and Republicans in Congress have raised concerns that the Trump Administration is rushing headlong into an illegal war in the Caribbean,” said Congressman Bishop. “President Trump and Secretary of Defense Hegseth have stonewalled Congress and delayed or refused to provide fundamental facts, documents, and information that Congress must have to fulfill its responsibilities by law. Under the Constitution, only Congress can declare war and the War Powers Resolution of 1973 was enacted precisely to clarify that the President must consult Congress to prevent endless military action and undeclared wars. These resolutions would prevent the President from continuing these military actions without first complying with the Constitution and existing law.”

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Crow Statement on Favorable Court Ruling Against Trump Administration

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jason Crow (CO-06)

WASHINGTON — Congressman Jason Crow (D-CO-06) issued the following statement after a federal court issued a favorable ruling in his lawsuit against the Trump administration, temporarily blocking the administration from obstructing critical oversight efforts by Members of Congress at federal immigration detention facilities. 

In July, Crow filed the lawsuit after the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) unlawfully denied him access to the Aurora ICE Detention Facility. Members of Congress have the right under law to conduct unannounced oversight visits of federal facilities. 

In a joint statement, Congressman Crow and other Members of Congress named as plaintiffs said:

“Today’s decision is a critical victory toward restoring our ability to conduct essential congressional oversight on behalf of the American people. It reinforces the rule of law and reminds the administration that oversight is not optional. Real-time, on-the-ground visits to immigration detention facilities help prevent abuses and ensure transparency. Oversight is a core responsibility of Members of Congress—and a constitutional duty we do not take lightly. We’ll continue standing up for the rule of law.”

The lawsuit was filed in the District of Columbia Federal Court by Congressman Crow and other Members of Congress who were also denied access to federal detention facilities, including Representatives Joe Neguse (D-CO-02), Jamie Raskin (D-MD-08), Bennie Thompson (D-MS-02), Veronica Escobar (D-TX-16), Dan Goldman (D-NY-10), Adriano Espaillat (D-NY-13), Jimmy Gomez (D-CA-34), Norma Torres (D-CA-35), Raul Ruiz (D-CA-36), Robert Garcia (D-CA-42), and Lou Correa (D-CA-46).

Since being elected to Congress, Crow has fought to promote transparency, oversight, and accountability in federal immigration detention centers. He introduced bipartisan legislation guaranteeing Members of Congress the right to conduct unannounced, in-person oversight visits of ICE detention facilities, including to check on any concerns related to public health and the humane treatment of detained individuals.

Congressman Crow regularly conducts oversight of the facility. Since 2019, he’s visited the facility to conduct oversight nine times. Congressman Crow’s staff have also visited the facility over 80 times to conduct oversight. Crow publishes public reports on his website of oversight visits and conditions at the facility.

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Crow Celebrates Colorado Wins in the Bipartisan National Defense Authorization Act

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jason Crow (CO-06)

WASHINGTON — Congressman Jason Crow (D-CO-06), a former Army Ranger who serves on the House Armed Services Committee, released the following statement as the bipartisan National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) heads to the President’s desk to become law:

“I served in combat and have seen firsthand what our servicemembers need to do their jobs and keep us safe,” said Congressman Crow. “As a leader on the Armed Services Committee, I’m proud to have secured bipartisan wins for Colorado and our military that will strengthen our readiness, modernize our military, and support our servicemembers and their families. This bill isn’t perfect, but it’ll deliver for Colorado and get our men and women in uniform what they need to protect our nation.”

This year’s NDAA includes twelve provisions secured by Congressman Crow, along with key provisions he has long fought for. Among the provisions championed by Crow are a repeal of the 1991 and 2002 Authorizations for Use of Military Force (AUMF); a pay raise for all servicemembers (3.8%); and direct support for servicemembers based in Colorado, including $12 million for Family Housing Construction at Buckley Space Force Base.

Provisions in the NDAA secured by Congressman Crow: 

  • Updating Air Force’s Flying Communications System: Authorizes support for mobile communications platforms to ensure continuity of government and national military command and control during a crisis
  • Protecting Assets Against Climate Change: Ensures climate shocks don’t negatively impact military installations, training, operations, and readiness.
  • Ensuring the Military Protects Civilians in Combat: Compels the Department of Defense to produce a report on how civilian harm could impact the success of military operations.
  • Improving the Defense Supply Chain: Encourages changes to the way DoD buys equipment so the supply chain that supports our defense is stronger and more efficient.
  • Strengthening the Afghanistan War Commission: Gives them more tools to complete their bipartisan assessment of key decisions made over twenty years of war in Afghanistan and to produce their final report.
  • Bolstering our Strategy in Eastern Europe: Requires DoD to provide Congress an updated strategy related to NATO, and provide a detailed update on Russia’s actions.
  • Bolstering Crucial Space Programs: Provides U.S. Space Systems Command with the resources needed to compete tactically and technologically with our adversaries in outer space.
  • Modernizing Rocket Launches: Requires the Space Force to report to Congress on how it will modernize standards and processes around rocket launches so they are safer and more efficient.
  • Supporting Space Domain Awareness: Improves our ability to track objects, like satellites, and activities happening outside of our atmosphere.
  • Increasing Competition when the Government Buys Space Technology: Ensures that all companies have a fair shot when the U.S. government is looking to purchase technology that we use in space
  • Accountability for Russian Atrocities: Extends the legal requirement that the DNI designate a senior official at ODNI to serve as the IC Coordinator for Russian Atrocities Accountability, and adds “the forcible transfer and deportation of Ukrainian children” to the list of matters under the Coordinator’s purview.
  • Increasing Congressional Oversight to Potential Combatant Command Changes: Requires the Secretary of Defense to provide at least 60-days notice prior to making significant changes to the missions, responsibilities, force structures, commanders’ ranks, or property of a regional combatant command.

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Aderholt Votes in Favor of FY26 National Defense Authorization Act: Restores Peace Through Strength

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Robert Aderholt (AL-04)

Washington, DC – Congressman Robert Aderholt voted in favor of the bipartisan FY2026 National Defense Authorization Act. Included in this legislation is Rep. Aderholt’s DUAL (Defense United Access to Learning) Act and a proposal to support America’s domestic textile industry.

The FY26 NDAA includes a 3.8% pay raise for all service members, funds Golden Dome and new capabilities, strengthens deterrence, and ends woke programs to make America safer and stronger. 

“At a time when national security demands are growing, a stronger military means a more secure future. FY26 NDAA delivers real wins for America’s national security, improves quality of life for our dedicated servicemembers, and advances President Trump’s peace-through-strength agenda,” said Congressman Aderholt. 

This year’s NDAA streamlines foreign military sales, enabling more international demand for Alabama-made equipment. It also directly benefits the state of Alabama by investing in military construction at Alabama bases and bolsters innovation through investments.

Included in this legislation is Rep. Aderholt’s DUAL (Defense United Access to Learning) Act and a proposal to support America’s domestic textile industry. The DUAL Act, a bill that allows the Department of Defense Education Activity (DODEA) to partner with accredited colleges and universities to offer dual enrollment programs for high school students in military families.

In addition, Congressman Aderholt’s Amendment #0668 is designed to reform the U.S. domestic textile industry and the Department of Defense’s reported shortfalls. This initiative takes a simple but important step by directing the Department of Defense to look more closely at domestic textile procurement for the American textile industry to play a larger role in meeting our defense needs here at home. It’s a common-sense measure that ultimately would strengthen our national security and support American jobs. 

Learn more about the NDAA here.

Housing Shouldn’t Block a Degree: Beatty, Landsman and Nunn Reintroduce Campus Housing Affordability Act

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

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Joyce Beatty (D-OH-03), Congressman Greg Landsman (D-OH-01), Congressman Zach Nunn (R-IA-03), and introduced bipartisan legislation to help low-income students pay for college campus housing.

Nearly 50 percent of all college students face housing insecurity. To ensure there is less of a barrier to entry, Congresswoman Beatty, Congressman Landsman, and Congressman Nunn have introduced the bipartisan Campus Housing Affordability Act. The bipartisan legislation will allow students to use Section 8 vouchers to pay for campus housing.

Currently, college students cannot use HUD’s Housing Choice Voucher (also known as Section 8) program to pay for campus housing. The bill would let the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) waive certain requirements so more students have access to on-campus living.

“Low-income students are less likely to attend college and graduate as it stands. This critical legislation makes it easier for students across all economic backgrounds to secure campus housing, live among their fellow students, and forge their own academic future. Education is a pillar of the American Dream – yet, there are far too many hurdles that keep students from achieving academic success. I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan bill to remove barriers for underserved students, putting that dream within reach,” Congresswoman Beatty.

“We can make college way more affordable, and this bill does that for countless Americans. In fact, this will be transformative for students who have been historically left out and marginalized. Campus housing is an enormous expense for students, and our bill eliminates that expense for students who are eligible for a housing vouchers,” said Congressman Landsman.

“College should be about learning and earning a degree, not worrying about where you’re going to sleep at night. Housing insecurity undermines academic success, increases the risk of dropping out, and puts a higher education out of reach for too many students. This bipartisan bill gives every student a fair shot at success—regardless of their background or ZIP code,” said Congressman Nunn.

Read the full bill text here.

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Federal Funding Secured By Congressman Costa Brings Fresno Airport Terminal Expansion to Life

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jim Costa Representing 16th District of California

FRESNO, Calif. – Congressman Jim Costa (CA-21) today celebrated the official completion and opening of the expanded terminal at Fresno Yosemite International Airport (FYI), marking a major milestone in the airport’s modernization and growth.   Fresno Yosemite International Airport, one of the fastest-growing airports in the country, has undergone its largest modernization project to date. The terminal expansion reflects more than four years of planning, coordination, and construction to meet growing passenger demand, expand air service, and support economic growth across the Central Valley. The project was made possible through federal support secured by Congressman Costa, including a $7.1 million grant from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law signed by President Biden in 2021, $5.8 million in Community Project Funding for runway and terminal improvements, funding through the American Rescue Plan Act and CARES Act, and additional federal aviation programs totaling more than $85 million. 
“Today is a proud moment for the San Joaquin Valley as we officially open the expanded terminal at Fresno Yosemite International Airport. This achievement reflects the dedication, skill, and hard work of airport staff, construction teams, and local partners who brought this project to life over several years,” said Congressman Costa. “Thanks to strong federal support we secured through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and additional Community Project Funding, this expansion is now a reality and will strengthen the local economy, support businesses, and create new opportunities for residents throughout the San Joaquin Valley.” 
Congressman Costa also acknowledged the late Henry Thompson, former Director of Aviation at FAT, whose leadership and collaboration were instrumental in advancing this terminal expansion project. “We are deeply grateful to Congressman Jim Costa for his steadfast support in securing critical federal funding that made this terminal expansion possible,” said Interim Director of Aviation Francisco Partida. “This investment has allowed Fresno Yosemite International Airport to deliver a modern, world-class facility that meets the growing needs of our region and enhances the travel experience for residents and visitors alike. We also honor the late Director of Aviation, Henry L. Thompson, whose strong working relationship with Congressman Costa helped lay the foundation for this project’s success. Congressman Costa’s commitment to aviation and infrastructure has been instrumental in positioning FAT for future growth, and we are proud to celebrate this milestone together.” 
“Today is an unforgettable day in the City of Fresno as we unveiled the largest terminal expansion in the Airport’s history,” said City of Fresno Mayor Jerry Dyer. “This new expansion strengthens our region’s future by positioning the Airport as more competitive and attractive facility for growing air service and creating opportunities for a thriving economy. I am extremely pleased that travelers will experience an expanded, efficient and convenient facility that our community can be proud to call their hometown airport.” The expanded terminal, part of the FAT Forward plan, is expected to generate an $85 million economic impact for the Central Valley and will feature: 

A new terminal concourse with more domestic and international passenger gates and larger boarding areas
Two additional aircraft parking positions
A new Federal Inspection Station (FIS) for international arrivals
A friends and family plaza area to welcome international travelers
An expanded Transportation Security Administration (TSA) checkpoint screening area
New concession areas for retail and dining
A new Public Art Program 

The terminal expansion positions Fresno Yosemite International Airport to meet rising passenger demand, improve regional connectivity, and continue serving as a critical hub for residents, businesses, and visitors across California’s San Joaquin Valley. 
Federal Grants Supporting Fresno Yosemite International Airport 

$12.9 million – CARES Act funding to support airport operations and infrastructure
$12.5 million – FY 2025 Airport Improvement Program supplemental grant for runway reconstruction
$9.7 million – American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding for airport recovery and improvements
$7.5 million – FY 2025 Airport Improvement Program funding for runway improvements
$7.1 million – FY 2023 Airport Terminal Program (Bipartisan Infrastructure Law) for terminal expansion
$6.0 million – FY 2025 Airport Terminal Program (Bipartisan Infrastructure Law) for terminal improvements
$18.0 million – FY 2025 Airport Infrastructure Grant (Bipartisan Infrastructure Law) for terminal expansion
$4.4 million – Community Project Funding for primary runway improvements
$4.4 million – FY 2023 Traditional Supplemental funding
$1.47 million – FY 2024 Supplemental Congressional Directed Spending
$1.4 million – Community Project Funding for terminal expansion
$500,000 – FY 2024 Airport Improvement Program (Bipartisan Infrastructure Law) 

Miller, Sewell Introduce Rural Hospital Flexibility Act of 2025

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Carol Miller (R-WV)

Washington, D.C. – Today, Representatives Carol Miller (R-WV) and Terri Sewell (D-AL) reintroduced the Rural Hospital Flexibility Act. This bipartisan legislation strengthens the Medicare Rural Hospital Flexibility Program so Critical Access Hospitals (CAHs) have the resources they need to improve quality, modernize services, and adapt to new care models.

“Rural hospitals are the backbone of health care in communities like mine, but too many are struggling to keep their doors open. It is critical to families in rural West Virginia and across the country to provide CAHs with the adequate funding needed so folks can access care close to home. Strengthening healthcare in rural hospitals helps these facilities meet patients’ needs, track outcomes, and deliver vital behavioral health and substance use services. The Rural Hospital Flexibility Act of 2025 reauthorizes the FLEX program to ensure rural communities are supported with policies that reflect their unique healthcare needs,” said Congresswoman Miller. 

“At a time when Alabama’s rural hospitals are facing enormous financial challenges, we must do all we can to ensure that patients in rural communities can access the lifesaving services they need. Reauthorizing the Rural Hospital Flexibility Program will help Critical Access Hospitals in Alabama keep their doors open and improve the quality of care they deliver to patients. I thank Congresswoman Miller for her partnership and urge my colleagues to join us in supporting this legislation,” said Congresswoman Sewell. 

“The reauthorization of the FLEX-SHIP program is critical to sustaining rural healthcare in West Virginia. These grants give our Critical Access Hospitals access to essential education and technical support that directly drives our Top-10 national Medicare Beneficiary Quality performance. Most rural hospitals simply could not access this level of training on their own, and these programs ensure every CAH, especially those in West Virginia, have the tools to strengthen operations and improve care for the communities they serve,” said Jim Kaufman, President & CEO of the West Virginia Hospital Association.

“The National Rural Health Association (NRHA) applauds Representatives Miller and Sewell for leading the reintroduction of the Rural Hospital Flexibility Act. NRHA is proud to have bipartisan, bicameral support for this legislation that continues to improve hospital-based healthcare access for rural communities. This bill reauthorizes the Medicare Rural Hospital Flexibility Program and Small Hospital Improvement Program, which play an integral role in helping rural hospitals improve their financial status and enhancing quality of care in rural communities’ access to sustainable healthcare,” said Alan Morgan, CEO, National Rural Health Association   

“The National Organization of State Offices of Rural Health (NOSORH) applauds Congresswoman Miller and Congresswoman Sewell for introducing this strong bipartisan bill.  Congress advancing this bill will provide stability to the FLEX grant program which provides West Virginia and all 50 states with funding needed to support Critical Access Hospitals in rural America throughout the U.S,” said Tammy Norville, CEO of the National Organizations of State Offices of Rural Health

Background
– More than half, over 55% of the population in West Virginia lives in rural communities.
The Rural Hospital Flexibility Program permits states to use funds that support CAHs through training, providing technical aid, and increasing access to high quality health care services in rural communities to help strengthen the rural health care system.
– CAHs are hospitals located in rural areas that hold 25 inpatient beds and are either more than 35 miles from the nearest hospital or more than 15 miles in mountainous terrains or only secondary roads.
– West Virginia has 21 CAHs located throughout the state.

WATCH: Miller Honors West Virginia National Guard Members Ahead of Resolution's Passage

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Carol Miller (R-WV)

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Miller (R-WV) spoke in support of her House Resolution 923 to honor U.S. Army Specialist Sarah Beckstrom and U.S. Air Force Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe of the West Virginia National Guard. The resolution passed the House of Representatives with the Senate’s companion legislation, S. Res. 537, passing by unanimous consent last week. A video and full transcript of Congresswoman Miller’s remarks can be found below. 

“Sarah Beckstrom and Andrew Wolfe embody the very best of our nation’s service members. As members of the West Virginia National Guard, they chose to serve their country with courage and a clear understanding of the risks that come with wearing the uniform.

On November 26th, they were targeted and shot in a cowardly attack in the streets of Washington, D.C. Specialist Sarah Beckstrom, just 20 years old, later succumbed to her injuries on Thanksgiving Day. Known for her kind spirit and love of country, Sarah’s passing is deeply felt across West Virginia and throughout our nation.

Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe continues to recover from his injuries and has made remarkable progress. Thanks to exceptional medical care, the unwavering support of his loved ones, and his own determination, he has been discharged from the hospital. We are grateful for this answered prayer and are continuing to pray for him to make a full recovery.

This resolution ensures that Congress formally honors their courage, sacrifice, and selfless service, and affirms that our nation will never forget those who put their lives on the line in defense of others,” said Congresswoman Carol Miller (R-WV).

“Specialist Sarah Beckstrom and Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe represent the very best of our state. Specialist Beckstrom’s tragic passing is a heartbreaking reminder of the immense sacrifices our service members make to protect our country and our communities.

Mina and I are continuing to pray for Andy Wolfe’s recovery. The updates we have received from Andy’s family and medical team – that he is now breathing on his own, can stand with assistance, and is transitioning from acute care to inpatient rehabilitation — are truly extraordinary, and are an answer to prayers. Prayer works, and we need to keep praying for Andy’s full recovery.

It’s important that we honor Sarah and Andy’s service to our nation today and reaffirm our unwavering support for their families and the entire West Virginia National Guard. Their courage and sacrifice will never be forgotten,” said Congressman Moore (R-WV). 

“Mister Speaker, I rise today in strong support of House Resolution 923, which honors the service and sacrifice of two of our West Virginia National Guard members, United States Army Specialist Sarah Beckstrom and United States Air Force Staff Sergeant Andrew Wolfe.  

These two courageous National Guardsmen were tragically shot in Washington, DC in a targeted assault against United States service members on November 26 of this year.

  Specialist Beckstrom, just 20 years old, succumbed to her injuries on Thanksgiving Day.

Sarah was a recent graduate of Webster High School. Her friends remembered her as a true ‘peacekeeper.’ She dreamed of becoming an FBI agent and held a deep, unwavering love for her country.

Her loss is deeply felt across West Virginia and by a grateful nation she served with honor. I urge my colleagues to join me in praying for her friends and family as they grieve this tragic loss.

Staff Sergeant Wolfe is 24 and from Martinsburg, West Virginia. He graduated from Musselman High School and enlisted in the National Guard while still a student there. He was assigned to the Force Support Squadron, 167th Airlift Wing of the West Virginia National Guard.
 

Just yesterday, Staff Sergeant Wolfe was discharged from the hospital and is now recovering at an in-patient rehabilitation facility.

By the grace of God and through his steadfast grit, he has made steady improvements since last month’s attack, and was recently able to sit in a chair and enjoy time with friends and family visiting him. His mother credits his miraculous improvements to the healing hand of God. 

I would urge my colleagues to continue to pray for Staff Sergeant Wolfe’s recovery, the medical teams assisting him, and his friends and family as they support him through this journey of healing.

Our service members represent the very best of us here in the United States. I am honored to join my fellow West Virginia Representative, Congressman Riley Moore in introducing this resolution recognizing these two incredible individuals and memorializing their selfless service to our country.

Thank you, Mister Speaker. I yield back my time.”  

ICYMI: Miller Speaks in Support of Haiti Economic Lift Program Extension

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Carol Miller (R-WV)

Washington, D.C. – Yesterday, Congresswoman Carol Miller (R-WV) spoke during a Ways and Means Committee hearing in support of H.R. 6504, the Haiti Economic Lift Program Extension Act. This bill extends the special duty-free rules for various apparel products imported from Haiti through Fiscal Year 2028. A video and transcript of the remarks can be found below. 

“I move to strike the last word.  

Much like AGOA, a multi-year renewal of Haiti’s HOPE/HELP trade preference program supports American companies and consumers by ensuring a friendly and mutually beneficial supply sector, particularly for the apparel industry.  

The program is critical to support stability, job creation, and sustainable development. This in turn strengthens the communities in Haiti and curbs illegal migration.  

I am thrilled to see the reauthorization of Haiti HOPE before the committee today, and I thank Congressman Murphy and my colleagues for their leadership. 

I yield back my time.”