Rep. Mike Levin Reintroduces Bill to Protect Waters from Plastic Pollution

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Levin (CA-49)

February 13, 2026

Washington, D.C.—Today, Reps. Mike Levin (CA-49) and Hillary Scholten (MI-3) reintroduced the Plastic Pellet Free Waters Act, to address plastic pollution in our nation’s waterways and along our coasts.

This bill would require the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to issue a rule that prohibits the discharge of plastic pellets and other types of plastic into our nation’s waters. Currently, EPA does not have an established federal rule to address plastic pellets specifically, and most states do not have meaningful regulations to combat plastic pollution.

“Much of our coastal district relies on the beautiful coastline to support our local economy, bolster tourism, sustain wildlife, and provide recreational opportunities,” said Rep. Levin. “Plastic pellets not only pollute our waterways and our coastline, but they also endanger public health. The damage they cause is preventable. Our Plastic Pellet Free Waters Act would end the discharge of plastic pellets into our nation’s waters and protect our treasured natural resources. I thank Rep. Scholten for her partnership on this bill, and I look forward to it moving through the legislative process.”

“In West Michigan, we care deeply about protecting the rivers and lakes our communities rely on every day,” said Rep. Scholten. “That’s why I’m proud to co-lead the Plastic Pellet Free Waters Act, which would require the EPA to set clear rules to prevent microplastics from entering our waterways in the first place. This commonsense step will help keep our environment clean, protect wildlife, and preserve the natural resources that make Michigan such a special place for generations to come.”

Plastic pellets are a form of microplastics. When dumped or spilled into the ocean and our waterways, these pellets absorb toxic chemicals and attract harmful bacteria that threaten marine life. Seabirds, fish, and other wildlife often mistake pellets for food, ingesting these hazardous substances. For these animals, pellets can block their digestive tracts, threaten their lives, and ultimately even contaminate the food humans eat.

The Plastic Pellet Free Waters Act would prevent further ecological and public health harm from plastic pollution by requiring the EPA to issue a rule addressing plastic pellets nationwide.

The bill is endorsed by the American Bird Conservancy, Environment America, Environment California, Environment Michigan, Oceana, Ocean Conservancy, PIRG, Surfrider, 5 Gyres.

“Plastic pellets in the environment can harm birds that confuse this type of pollution for food,” said Annie Chester, Policy Director at American Bird Conservancy. “The Plastic Pellet Free Waters Act would prohibit discharges of plastic pellets, safeguarding waterways that birds and people rely upon. American Bird Conservancy thanks Reps. Levin and Scholten for championing this legislation.”

“Plastic pollution is everywhere—from the beaches of California to Pennsylvania’s top trout streams, and from the Great Lakes down to the Gulf Coast of Texas. Sometimes, it’s obvious, for example, ubiquitous plastic grocery bags. But perhaps a bigger problem is something much smaller—the hard-to-notice plastic pellet. When animals ingest this plastic, they can get sick and even die. We should be doing everything we can to stop plastic pollution, but shockingly, some companies still dump and spill large quantities of plastic pellets directly into our waterways. That’s why it’s urgent that Congress pass the Plastic Pellet Free Waters Act,” said Lisa Frank, Executive Director, Environment America

“Oceana thanks Representatives Mike Levin and Hillary Scholten for addressing plastic pollution by reintroducing the Plastic Pellet Free Waters Act,” said Christy Leavitt, Senior Campaign Director at Oceana. “Plastic pellets can easily spill or wash into our oceans, rivers, and lakes, and they are extremely difficult to clean up because of their small size. These tiny pieces of plastic contribute to the growing plastic pollution crisis and flood of plastic into our oceans and fresh waterways. Congress should pass this much needed bill to protect our coasts, communities, and wildlife.”

“The Clean Water Act is meant to protect our nation’s waters from pollution, but right now tiny plastic pellets are literally slipping through the cracks in huge quantities,” said Dr. Anja Brandon, Director of Plastics Policy at Ocean Conservancy. “These microplastics can resemble fish eggs and are often ingested by seabirds, turtles, fish, and other marine life. We applaud Rep. Levin for reintroducing the Plastic Pellet Free Waters Act to leverage America’s landmark water pollution law to keep deadly plastic pellets out of our ocean. We look forward to continuing to work with Congress to pass this commonsense legislation in our fight against the ocean plastics crisis.”

“Hundreds of citizen scientists participating in last year’s International Plastic Pellet Count found nearly 50,000 plastic pellets in waterways around the world in just a matter of minutes, primarily in the United States. That’s just the tip of the iceberg: an estimated 10 trillion plastic pellets end up in our oceans each year. Plastic pellets can escape into the environment at every step of the supply chain, and despite their small size, cause big problems for our environment, especially our waterways, where they can harm wildlife and public health. U.S. PIRG is calling on Congress to pass the Plastic Pellet Free Waters Act to address this often unseen threat,” said Grace Vickers, Beyond Plastic Associate at PIRG.

“Some of the most harmful plastic pollution is also the hardest to see,” said Jenna Schwerzmann, Plastic Pollution Initiative Coordinator with the Surfrider Foundation. “Our oceans are already overwhelmed with plastic at the end of its life; plastic producers should not be adding to that burden by allowing preventable losses of virgin plastic before it even becomes a product. The Plastic Pellet Free Waters Act is a commonsense step to stop this pollution at its source and hold polluters accountable.”

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Rep. Mike Levin Denounces Sec. Noem’s Visit to Otay Mesa

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Levin (CA-49)

February 12, 2026

Rep. Levin’s message to Sec. Noem

Washington, D.C.—Today, Rep. Mike Levin (CA-49) denounced Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem’s press tour at the Otay Mesa detention facility. Sec. Noem’s visit to the facility comes as members of the San Diego Congressional Delegation are in Washington for House votes rather than in San Diego to press her about ICE’s actions and abuses. Rep. Levin released the following statement:

“Sec. Noem decided to hold a press conference at Otay Mesa on a day when there would be no members of the San Diego Congressional Delegation there to demand answers, press her on ICE abuses, or hold DHS accountable. It is nothing more than a staged photo op.

“Noem doesn’t want to answer our questions because she doesn’t want to defend the indefensible. If she and the Trump Administration were serious about reforming our broken immigration system, they’d be at the negotiating table to pass legislation like the bipartisan Dignity Act, not staging press conferences.

“We need real solutions and we need guardrails on ICE, not more political theater.”

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MATSUI LEADS COLLEAGUES IN DEMANDING TRUMP ADMINISTRATION RESTORE PUBLIC HEALTH GRANTS

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Doris Matsui (D-CA)

WASHINGTON, D.C. –– Today, Congresswoman Doris Matsui (CA-07) led 77 of her colleagues, including every Democratic Representative of the California, Colorado, Illinois, and Minnesota delegations in urging the Trump Administration to immediately restore public health grant funding to those states. This comes after the Administration terminated Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) grants that support core public health infrastructure and disease prevention. 

“Reports have indicated the Administration intends to cut tens of millions in public health funding to California, Colorado, Illinois, and Minnesota,” wrote the Members. “These cuts will unnecessarily hamstring our state and local public health departments and community organizations, putting our constituents’ health at risk. We urge you to restore this funding immediately.”

The funding cuts broadly target grants that support public health staffing, data modernization, and surveillance, as well as HIV and STI prevention programs, and health programs serving communities that have historically faced barriers to care. The Members warned these terminations would weaken states’ ability to detect, contain, and respond to outbreaks, which is especially reckless during the current active measles outbreak. They argued the cuts target the core infrastructure public health relies on.

They also argued the move fits a broader pattern: President Trump has repeatedly threatened to withhold federal support from Democratic led states and cities in moments of crisis, from social services to disaster relief. Now, they write, the Administration is again pulling back congressionally approved funds for political reasons, not public health needs.

The members demanded the following:

  • A full list of terminated grants and grants under consideration to be cut in the coming weeks
  • A rationale for why impacted grants are “inconsistent with agency priorities.”
  • What the Department’s justification is for targeting grants only in California, Colorado, Illinois, and Minnesota
  • Whether the Department planning to rescind public health funding in additional states

“It is within your power to end this cycle of alarming actions to erode public health,” the Members concluded. “We strongly urge you to reverse these terminations, as the real-world consequences for the health and safety of all Americans is at stake.”

Representatives Robin Kelly (IL-02), Kelly Morrison (MN-03), Nanette Barragan (CA-44), Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Sean Casten (IL-06), Lateefah Simon (CA-12), and Brittany Pettersen (CO-07) co-led the letter. 

Full text of the letter is available HERE.

Congresswoman Matsui has long fought to strengthen the nation’s public health system, expand access to prevention and care, and ensure communities have the resources needed to respond quickly to outbreaks and emerging threats. Most recently, the Congresswoman reintroduced the Public Health Funding Restoration Act to restore funding to the Prevention and Public Health Fund (PPHF), which is the nation’s first mandatory funding stream dedicated to improving our public health system. More information on the Congresswoman’s record on a broad range of health care issues can be found HERE.

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Ways and Means members call for investigation into leak of immigrant taxpayer information

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Linda Sanchez (38th District of CA)

WASHINGTON – Representatives Linda T. Sánchez (D-Calif.), Mike Thompson (D-Calif.), Jimmy Gomez (D-Calif.) and Terri Sewell (D-Ala.) led 14 of their Ways and Means Democratic colleagues in calling on the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration to investigate the leak of 47,000 taxpayers’ confidential information by the Internal Revenue Service to the Department of Homeland Security. 

Despite strict privacy laws protecting taxpayers, the IRS agreed last April to share sensitive information, including names and addresses, of individuals who were being targeted for immigration enforcement. This agreement is just another example of the Trump administration recklessly and unlawfully violating the rights of immigrants and working families. Federal courts have since held that sharing this private data violates taxpayers’ rights.

“When agencies take advantage of public trust by illegally sharing taxpayer data, it creates an environment wherein undocumented individuals are not comfortable complying with tax law,” the members wrote. “Undocumented immigrants have paid taxes for years with assurances that they can safely do so – this illegal action has pulled the rug out from under working individuals who are trying to comply with the law.”

In addition to Sánchez, Thompson, Gomez, and Sewell, the letter was signed by Representatives Lloyd Doggett (D-Texas), John Larson (D-Conn.), Danny Davis (D-Ill.), Suzan K. DelBene (D-Wash.), Judy Chu (D-Calif.), Gwen Moore (D-Wis.), Brendan Boyle (D-Pa.), Don Beyer (D-Va.), Dwight Evans (D-Pa.), Brad Schneider (D-Ill.), Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif.), Steven Horsford (D-Nev.), Stacey Plaskett (D-V.I.) and Tom Suozzi (D-N.Y.).

Full text of the letter is available HERE and follows:

Ms. Heather M. Hill
Acting Inspector General for Tax Administration
Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration
901 D St SW, Suite 600 
Washington, DC 20024

Dear Acting Inspector General Hill:

As members of the Committee on Ways and Means, we ask the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) to immediately investigate the leak of confidential taxpayer information of 47,000 individuals reported today by the Washington Post in this morning’s article entitled IRS improperly disclosed confidential immigrant tax data to DHS.

Not only does this action endanger working, tax paying individuals who contribute to our economy, but it disincentivizes tax compliance for everyone. When agencies take advantage of public trust by illegally sharing taxpayer data, it creates an environment wherein undocumented individuals are not comfortable complying with tax law. Undocumented immigrants have paid taxes for years with assurances that they can safely do so – this illegal action has pulled the rug out from under working individuals who are trying to comply with the law. We are seeing an increasing rise of violence and illegality in President Trump’s immigration enforcement; it is highly unprecedented and completely inappropriate that the Department of the Treasury should take part in such efforts.

Since February 2025, we have been deeply concerned that confidential taxpayer information protected by Section 6103 of the Internal Revenue Code was being unlawfully and unjustly disclosed to or accessed by other government agencies. In fact, just last week, the Department of the Treasury responded to a letter from many members of this committee, alongside other Members of Congress, stating that they “share[d] our commitment to taxpayer privacy.” 

On February 16, 2023, Chairman Jason Smith wrote to the Department of [the] Treasury regarding a previous disclosure of private information, which has now resulted in the President suing the Internal Revenue Service for $10 billion. We similarly ask the following:

“Therefore, I request that TIGTA commit in writing that it will complete the following actions:

  1. Conduct a comprehensive and timely investigation.
  2. Produce a report that summarizes TIGTA’s investigation with findings and recommendations.
  3. Provide these Members with a full copy of TIGTA’s unredacted report.
  4. Make as much of that report public as possible, consistent with 26 U.S.C. § 6103.”

Thank you in advance for your attention to this request. We look forward to learning the results of your investigation.

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Cole Introduces Legislation to Aid Tribal Police in Searching for Missing Children

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACTOlivia Porcaro 202-225-6165

Washington, D.C. – This week, Representative Tom Cole (R-OK), along with Reps. Darrell Issa (R-CA), Rick Larsen (D-WA), and Teresa Leger Fernandez (D-NM), introduced H.R. 7490, the Tribal Warrant Fairness Act, to grant the United States Marshal Service (USMS) the authority to both execute arrest warrants on behalf of Tribal law enforcement and assist in searching for missing children.

After introducing the legislation, the Representatives released the following statements:

“For far too long, predators have preyed on vulnerable children in Indian Country at alarming rates. Yet, Tribal law enforcement still faces obstacles and limitations when it comes to holding these predators accountable,” said Representative Cole. “By improving coordination and strengthening the partnership between USMS and Tribal law enforcement, the Tribal Warrant Fairness Act will make Native American communities safer and ultimately bring more criminals to justice. I would like to thank Representatives Issa, Larsen, and Leger Fernandez for their coordination on this legislation, as it is critical that Tribal governments have the resources they need to protect their children.”

“I’m proud to join my colleagues as we introduce the Tribal Warrant Fairness Act and reaffirm our shared commitment to the rule of law across all jurisdictions. This much-needed legislation will specifically strengthen public safety in these communities by improving coordination between Tribal and federal authorities and ensuring law enforcement is empowered to act swiftly in urgent cases, especially involving missing children,” said Representative Issa.

“Tribal warrants should be enforced to the fullest extent of the law, just like all other warrants,” said Representative Larsen. “I thank Chair Cole for his work to uphold Tribal sovereignty in Congress. I will continue working with him to better support Tribal law enforcement through this bill and other efforts to keep Tribes and communities across Northwest Washington safe.”

“For too long, jurisdictional gaps have made it harder to protect Native children,” said Representative Leger Fernandez. “When a Native American child goes missing, tribes should be able to utilize every tool to find them. Our bipartisan Tribal Warrant Fairness Act strengthens coordination between tribal and federal authorities, respects tribal sovereignty, and helps keep children safe.”

Background:

In 2023, the Not Invisible Act Commission found that federal law has set limitations on Tribal law enforcement, one of which is the inability and lack of authority for the United States Marshal Service (USMS) to assist Tribal law enforcement with warrants for arrest and searching for missing children, as the USMS would normally do with state, federal, and local agencies. Ultimately, this limits the USMS’ ability to execute Tribal arrest warrants.

The Tribal Warrant Fairness Act would grant the USMS the authority to execute arrest warrants on behalf of Tribal law enforcement and allow the USMS to assist Tribal law enforcement in searching for missing children. Additionally, this legislation would allow for a more rapid apprehension of violent suspects, grant the authority to the USMS to act on an individual who has a violent felony arrest warrant from Tribal courts and poses a threat to public safety outside of Tribal lands, and allow the participation of Tribal law enforcement in the Fugitive Apprehension Task Forces.

Overall, the Tribal Warrant Fairness Act will improve public safety, enhance interagency cooperation, and close jurisdictional gaps that often hinder law enforcement efforts on Tribal lands.

H.R. 7490 is a bicameral, bipartisan bill, as it was also introduced by Senators Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) and Catherine Cortez-Masto (D-NV) in the Senate. The legislation has also been endorsed by the United States Marshal Service (USMS), the United South and Eastern Tribes (USET), the National Native American Law Enforcement Association (NNALEA), and the Coalition of Large Tribes (COLT).

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Norcross, Scott, Reed Propose Bill to Rebuild America’s Public Schools

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Donald Norcross (1st District of New Jersey)

WASHINGTON, DCToday, Congressman Donald Norcross (D-NJ-01), House Committee on Education and Workforce Ranking Member Robert C. “Bobby” Scott (D-VA-03), and Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) introduced the Rebuild America’s Schools Act of 2026.  The legislation invests more than $130 billion in our schools’ physical and digital infrastructure, and the resources are targeted at high-poverty schools with facilities that pose health and safety risks to students and staff. 

“Every student should be able to go to school in a building that’s safe, clean, and built to help them succeed,” said Congressman Norcross.  “That means rebuilding and repairing the schools they walk into every day, not letting roofs leak, boilers fail, or air quality put their health at risk.  That’s why I was honored to introduce the Rebuild America’s Schools Act with Congressman Scott, to make our schools safer and healthier while creating over 2 million jobs across the country.  Our kids are our future, and we have a responsibility to invest in them.” 

“Chronic neglect of America’s public schools has forced students and teachers across the country to learn and work in outdated and hazardous school buildings.  Moreover, dilapidated and poorly ventilated school facilities pose significant health threats that make it harder for teachers to teach and students to learn,” said Ranking Member Scott.  “The Rebuild America’s Schools Act invests $130 billion in our nation’s physical and digital infrastructure, improves students’ academic recovery efforts, and creates more than 2 million jobs over the next five years.  It is far past time to improve public education infrastructure.” 

“Improving school infrastructure is critical to the health, safety, and well-being of America’s students and our communities.  Investing in school infrastructure is a moral and economic imperative.  The Rebuild America’s Schools Act would provide dedicated, long-term investments in improving America’s schools and ensuring every student can learn in a safe, healthy, modern classroom.  Passing this bill would help improve school facilities, put more people to work, and improve student academic outcomes,” said Senator Reed. 

America’s public schools are in dire need of investment to make up for decades of neglect.  In June 2020, the Government Accountability Office (GAO) found that 54 percent of school districts across the country must replace or update critical infrastructure in more than half their buildings.  Crumbling school facilities with asbestos, contaminated water, and mold pose significant health and safety threats to more than 50 million students and 3 million teachers in public schools. 

The Rebuild America’s Schools Act would: Invest $100 billion in grants and $30 billion in bond authority targeted at high-poverty schools with facilities that pose health and safety risks to students and staff. 

  • Require states to develop comprehensive state-wide public databases on the condition of public-school facilities.  Most states do not track school facility conditions, and this would provide much-needed insight into the condition of our public schools. 

In the House, Rebuild America’s Schools Act has 80 original cosponsors including: Adam Smith (WA-09), Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), Linda T. Sánchez (CA-38), Jill N. Tokuda (HI-02), Frederica S. Wilson (FL-24), Marilyn Strickland (WA-10), Janice D. Schakowsky (IL-09), Donald S. Beyer (VA-08), Stacey E. Plaskett (VI-AL), Steven Horsford (NV-04), Joseph D. Morelle (NY-25), Deborah K. Ross (NC-02), Seth Magaziner (RI-02), Sean Casten (IL-06), Summer L. Lee (PA-12), Mark Takano (CA-39), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-AL), Morgan McGarvey (KY-03), Jennifer L. McClellan (VA-04), Nanette Diaz Barragán (CA-44), Chellie Pingree (ME-01), John W. Mannion (NY-22), Greg Landsman (OH-01), Sanford D. Bishop (GA-02), Lucy McBath (GA-06), Eric Swalwell (CA-14), Sarah Elfreth (MD-03), Daniel S. Goldman (NY-10), Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), André Carson (IN-07), Frank J. Mrvan (IN-01), Joyce Beatty (OH-03), Lateefah Simon (CA-12), Bill Foster (IL-11), David Scott (GA-13), Ted Lieu (CA-36), Danny K. Davis (IL-07), Madeleine Dean (PA-04), Lori Trahan (MA-03), Angie Craig (MN-02), Christopher R. Deluzio (PA-17), Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05), Kathy Castor (FL-14), Sara Jacobs (CA-51), Kweisi Mfume (MD-07), Jahana Hayes (CT-05), Nikki Budzinski (IL-13), Andrea Salinas (OR-06), Julia Brownley (CA-26), Lois Frankel (FL-22), George Latimer (NY-16), April McClain Delaney (MD-06), Gwen Moore (WI-04), Melanie A. Stansbury (NM-01), Seth Moulton (MA-06), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Joe Courtney (CT-02), Juan Vargas (CA-52), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Mary Kaptur (OH-09), Salud O. Carbajal (CA-24), Bennie G. Thompson (MS-02), Diana DeGette (CO-01), Zoe Lofgren (CA-18), Veronica Escobar (TX-16), Kevin Mullin (CA-15), Adelita S. Grijalva (AZ-07), Henry C. “Hank” Johnson (GA-04), John Garamendi (CA-08), Brad Sherman (CA-32), Greg Casar (TX-35), Brendan F. Boyle (PA-02), Al Green (TX-09), Mike Quigley (IL-05), Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10), Judy Chu (CA-28), Wesley Bell (MO-01), and Dina Titus (NV-01). 

In the Senate, Rebuild America’s Schools Act has 17 original cosponsors including: Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Tina Smith (D-MN), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Richard J. Durbin (D-IL), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Angela D. Alsobrooks (D-MD), Cory A. Booker (D-NJ), Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), and Tammy Duckworth (D-IL). 

The Rebuild America’s Schools Act is endorsed by21st Century School Fund (21CSF), AFT: Education, Healthcare, Public Services, American Library Association (ALA), American Institute of Architects (AIA), American School Superintendents Association (AASA), BlueGreen Alliance (BGA), Build America’s School Infrastructure Coalition (BASIC), Children & Nature Network (C&NN), Council of the Great City Schools (CGCS), Craven County Schools (CCS), Green Schoolyards America, Greenbank Associates, Healthy Schools Campaign, Heart of America (HOA), International Association of Sheet Metal Air Rail and Transportation Workers (SMART), International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers (IUBAC), Kentucky School Plant, Management Association (KSPMA), National Council on School Facilities (NCSF), National Education Association (NEA), National School Plant Management Association (NSPMA), North American Association for Environmental Education (NAAEE), Rentokil Terminix, SafeTraces, the National Association of Federally Impacted Schools (NAFIS), UndauntedK12, and U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). 

Read the bill text of the Rebuild America’s Schools Act of 2026 here. 

Read the fact sheet for the Rebuild America’s Schools Act of 2026 here. 

Read the section-by-section for the Rebuild America’s Schools Act of 2026 here. 

Norcross, Grothman Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Simplify Retirement Plan Reporting and Cut Red Tape

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Donald Norcross (1st District of New Jersey)

Congressman Donald Norcross (D-NJ),  alongside Congressman Glenn Grothman (R-WI) introduced the Form 5500 Filing Simplification Act, bipartisan legislation to modernize and streamline outdated federal reporting requirements for employer-sponsored retirement plans governed by the Employee Retirement Income Security Act. 

The Form 5500 Filing Simplification Act establishes a single, uniform filing deadline for retirement plans. Under current law, the statutory deadline for filing Form 5500 does not provide sufficient time for companies to complete all the necessary steps for filing with the Department of Labor. As a result, many plan sponsors are forced to submit an extension request with the IRS using Form 5558 simply to file their annual Form 5500 on time. By eliminating the need for a separate extension request, the bill reduces unnecessary administrative burdens on employers while maintaining strong oversight and transparency. 

The legislation is supported by the American Retirement Association, The ERISA Industry Committee, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the CHRO Association, and the American Benefits Council. Current cosponsors include Representatives Abraham Hamadeh (R-AZ), Joe Wilson (R-SC), Randy Fine (R-FL), James Moylan (R-GU), Mark Messmer (R-IN), Michael Rulli (R-OH), and Rick Allen (R-GA). 

“Workers need a clear window into what is happening behind the scenes with their retirement accounts and most employers want to act in good faith to provide that transparency. But right now, an overly complicated filing system makes it harder for employers to stay on track and easier for mistakes to slip through,” said Congressman Donald Norcross. “This bill fixes that by setting one clear deadline and cutting out redundant steps, so plans are filed accurately and on time and workers’ retirement savings stay protected.” 

“Employers who sponsor retirement plans are required to file Form 5500 each year, but under current rules many also have to submit a separate extension request, Form 5558,” said Congressman Grothman. “This redundant two-step process wastes time and money, creates unnecessary headaches for small and mid-sized businesses, and does nothing to help workers. Our bill fixes that by establishing a single, uniform filing deadline and allowing electronic submission, cutting paperwork while keeping the transparency and oversight needed to protect Americans’ retirement benefits.” 

“The current two-step Form 5500 filing system creates needless complexity and exposes plan sponsors—especially small and mid-sized employers—to severe penalties for simple clerical errors. The Form 5500 Filing Simplification Act provides a practical, bipartisan solution that modernizes reporting, improves compliance, and strengthens the private retirement system.” – American Retirement Association CEO Brian Graff. 

“The ERISA Industry Committee applauds the introduction of the Form 5500 Filing Simplification Act. The bill would eliminate unnecessary paperwork for retirement plans and reduce red tape. We support the bill because these improvements would help plan sponsors more efficiently provide benefits to workers and retirees.” – James Gelfand, President and CEO, The ERISA Industry Committee 

“The US Chamber has been working to ease the administrative burdens associated with sponsoring a retirement plan. We support Congressman Grothman’s efforts in this area through the Form 5500 Filing Simplification Act, which will make it more streamlined for sponsors to file the Form 5500.” – Chantel Sheaks, Vice President Retirement Policy, US Chamber of Commerce 

Background Information 

Under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974 (ERISA), employers sponsoring retirement plans must file Form 5500 annually with the Department of Labor to disclose basic information about plan finances and operations. 

Because the current statutory filing deadline often does not align with plan years, many otherwise compliant employers are forced to file a separate extension request using IRS Form 5558. This creates a redundant, two-step process that increases paperwork and compliance costs without improving oversight or participant protections—particularly for small and mid-sized employers. 

The Form 5500 Filing Simplification Act modernizes this process by establishing a single, uniform filing deadline, eliminating the need for Form 5558, and explicitly allowing electronic filing, while maintaining transparency and accountability for retirement plans. 

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Rep. Norcross Delivers Nearly $12M in Funding for South Jersey Community Projects

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Donald Norcross (1st District of New Jersey)

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Donald Norcross (D-NJ-01) secured $11.98 million for 15 Community Project Funding (CPF) awards throughout New Jersey’s First Congressional District to support economic development, create jobs, and respond to the most pressing needs of the community. 

“There’s been a lot of tough news lately, but this funding is a real reminder of what can happen when government listens and delivers for our communities. I came to Congress to fight for working families and make our South Jersey neighborhoods safer, healthier, and stronger. This funding will do just that,” said Congressman Donald Norcross. “From investing in our local infrastructure and schools, to delivering new fire trucks to keeping our communities safe, this funding will make a real difference. I’ll keep fighting to make sure our tax dollars come back to South Jersey and put the work where it belongs; in our communities.”  

Community Funding Recipients and Project Descriptions: 

  • $822,000 to Borough of Magnolia 
    • This project will provide the Magnolia Fire Company with a new fire engine to replace aging equipment and ensure reliable emergency response for residents 
  • $1,015,000 to Maryville Southern New Jersey Telehealth   
    • This project will expand Maryville’s telehealth programming across Southern New Jersey by upgrading its electronic medical record system and related hardware, cybersecurity tools, and IT support.  
  • $900,000 to Westville Fire District  
    • This project will fund a new rescue pumper for the Westville Fire District to strengthen emergency response in Westville, surrounding communities, and nearby highways such as I-295 and the New Jersey Turnpike. 
  • $1,050,000 to Rowan University  
    • This project will help Rowan University students research, develop, and test advanced concrete 3D printing to provide affordable and resilient 3D-printed houses. 
  • $1,000,000 to the Camden County Municipal Utilities Authority   
    • This project will support an Army Corps of Engineers initiative to improve wastewater and stormwater infrastructure. 
  • $880,000 to Winslow Township 
    • This project will rehabilitate an aging elevated water storage tank on W. Factory Road. 
  • $1,092,000 to Voorhees Township 
    • This project will replace the sewer force main and pump serving the Las Brisas line, enhancing clean water efforts and sewage handling in a majority senior residential area. 
  • $1,092,000 to the Town of Maple Shade  
    • This project will replace the Kings Highway Treatment Plant with a new water treatment plant to ensure the Township of Maple Shade can continue to provide a safe and adequate supply of potable water. 
  • $850,000 to Camden County College 
    • This project’s funds will be used to construct a free-standing facility that will house a new electric and hybrid vehicle technician training program. 
  • $850,000 to Camden City 
    • This project will support the Camden City Clean Up Initiative through the purchase of garbage hoppers and trash containers, helping to revitalize Camden’s waste management infrastructure.  
  • $850,000 to Gloucester County 
    • This project will pay for construction costs associated with extending the Thomas Edison Parkway, specifically for installation of a new traffic light and for construction of a bridge crossing the Cabin Run Stream. 
  • $850,000 to Pennsauken Township 
    • This project will construct a new Public Works Facility and Vehicle/Equipment Repair Garage. 
  • $250,000 to the Borough of Wenonah 
    • This project will fund the Cedar Avenue Recreation Complex Improvement Project, which is designed to promote increased use of the facilities and better ensure the safety of all users. 
  • $250,000 to Washington Township  
    • This project will fund the Park Safety and Security Project, specifically to add security camera lighting and blue light emergency call boxes 
  • $250,000 to South Jersey Port Corporation 
    • This project will make improvements at the Balzano Marine Terminal in Camden. 

“The Borough Council and I are grateful to share that the Borough of Magnolia has been awarded $822,000 in federal funding to support the purchase of a new fire apparatus. We humbly thank Congressman Donald Norcross for securing this funding and for his continued support,” said Mayor BettyAnn Cowling-Carson. “This investment not only provides significant savings for taxpayers but also ensures that our volunteers can continue delivering reliable, professional emergency services for years to come.” 

“Maryville is deeply grateful to Congressman Norcross for his ongoing commitment to expanding access to treatment across Southern New Jersey,” said Jared Levy, CEO of Maryville. “This federal support will allow us to strengthen the systems and resources needed to reach more individuals struggling with substance use and mental health challenges. This investment means improved access, stronger recovery outcomes, and healthier communities.” 

“The Borough of Westville, the Westville Fire District #1, Board of Fire Commissioners along with the members of the Westville Fire Department extend their sincere gratitude to Congressman Donald Norcross for his continued support of the Borough of Westville and our dedicated career and volunteer firefighters,” said Mayor Fritz H. Sims, Jr. “This funding will allow the Westville Fire Department to continue to have the resources necessary to operate effectively, serve the Borough at the highest level, and remain fully equipped to provide extremely effective, reliable, and professional emergency response services for many years to come.”   

“The federal funding secured by Congressman Donald Norcross will play a vital role in improving and enhancing water quality here in Camden County and throughout the congressional district,” said Commissioner Jeffery Nash, liaison to the Camden County Municipal Authority. “I want to applaud his dedication and commitment to always listening to our subject matter experts to make the most informed decisions to improve our quality of life here in the county.”   

“We are incredibly grateful to Congressman Donald Norcross and his office for securing $1,092,000 in federal funding for the Kings Highway Treatment Plant project. This investment is critical to strengthening Maple Shade’s water infrastructure, improving system resiliency, enhancing fire protection capabilities, and ensuring reliable, high-quality service for our residents and businesses,” said Mayor Heather Talarico. “Support like this allows us to move forward with essential upgrades while remaining fiscally responsible to our taxpayers, and we sincerely appreciate Congressman Norcross’ continued partnership and advocacy for our community.” 

“The Borough of Wenonah is grateful to Rep. Norcross for his advocacy and support in securing requested funding for our Cedar Avenue Recreation Complex Improvement Project,” said Mayor Jessica S. Doheny. “These funds will enable us to make significant improvements and additions to one of our town’s most-utilized recreation areas, benefiting the youth from our region who already participate in programming at this facility while increasing recreational opportunities for community members of all ages. This project would not be possible without this support, and the positive impact this will have on the Borough of Wenonah is immeasurable.” 

“We are deeply grateful to Congressman Norcross for securing federal support for these transformative projects,” said Dr. Ali A. Houshmand, President of Rowan University. “This investment will accelerate our work to develop affordable, resilient housing through advanced 3D-printing research and will strengthen the infrastructure needed to support the continued growth of our West Campus. These initiatives will expand economic opportunity, attract new industry partners and help us continue building a stronger future for South Jersey.” 

“Winslow Township is very grateful to receive $880,000 in funding to help refresh and protect the water tower located on West Factory Road, a landmark our community relies on every day,” said Mayor Marie D. Lawrence. “This investment allows us to address aging infrastructure responsibly while easing the burden on our township taxpayers and keeping our water system strong for years to come. I would like to thank Congressman Norcross and his office for helping us secure this much needed funding.” 

“Pennsauken’s Department of Public Works is the backbone of many of the critical services our residents rely on every day, from maintaining our roads and public spaces to responding when our community needs us most,” said Mayor Patrick Olivo. “These funding resources will allow us to make essential infrastructure upgrades to our Public Works Facility and Vehicle Repair Garage, ensuring our team has the safe, modern space they need to continue serving effectively. We are grateful to Congressman Norcross for recognizing the importance of this investment and supporting Pennsauken’s goals to strengthen the foundation of the services our community depends on.” 

“This is another tremendous step towards advancing the quality of life in the City of Camden and a significant boost to communities across Southern New Jersey,” said Camden Mayor Victor G. Carstarphen. “We are grateful to Congressman Norcross for his advocacy.  The $850,000 in funding will help support the City’s clean up initiative through the purchase of new waste tipper containers.  This will not only result in a huge savings for the municipality but ultimately help to upgrade Camden’s waste management infrastructure and ensuring reliable trash service citywide.” 

“We appreciate Congressman Donald Norcross for his continued partnership with Camden County College,” said Dr. Lovell Pugh-Bassett, President of Camden County College. “This funding positions our college at the forefront of automotive innovation by expanding our facility and equipping students with cutting-edge skills to lead the future of electric vehicle technology.” 

“Voorhees Township Committee would like to thank Congressman Donald Norcross for delivering $1,092,000 in Community Project Funding for the Las Brisas Sewer Project,” said Mayor Michael Mignogna.  “This support means real progress – upgrading critical infrastructure, protecting our waterways, and improving everyday life for our residents. We truly appreciate Congressman Norcross’ continued partnership and commitment to Voorhees.” 

“This is a huge win for Gloucester County and Rowan’s West Campus, helping us deliver the road and infrastructure upgrades that will support growth for decades to come,” said Matthew Weng, Gloucester County Commissioner. “We’re excited to keep moving this project forward and to make travel safer, smoother, and more reliable for students, residents, and local businesses.”

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Rep. Norcross Announces 19 Nominees to U.S. Military Academies

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Donald Norcross (1st District of New Jersey)

WASHINGTON, DC—Today, Congressman Donald Norcross, a senior member of the House Armed Services Committee and father of a veteran, announced and congratulated his 2026 congressional nominees for the United States service academies. 

“Every year, I’m inspired by the young people in New Jersey who step forward ready to serve our nation,” said Congressman Norcross. “Our nominees have demonstrated the character, discipline, and leadership our nation’s service academies demand. As a member of the House Armed Services Committee and the father of a veteran, I do not take this responsibility lightly. To our nominees’ parents, thank you for raising leaders ready to answer the call to serve.”

Students wishing to attend the U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Military Academy, U.S. Air Force Academy, or the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy must receive a nomination from the Vice President or their U.S. Senator or Representative. This year, 19 students were selected by Congressman Norcross and a committee comprised of community leaders, veterans, and service academy alumni to receive nominations to the service academies.

Students interested in attending a service academy can learn more on Congressman Norcross’s website.

Students Nominated by Congressman Norcross in 2026 (alphabetically ordered):

  • Zachary Bader, Waterford Township, St. Augustine Preparatory School, nominated to the United States Air Force Academy.
  • Casey Birdwell, Haddon Township, Haddon Township High School, nominated to the United States Naval Academy.
  • Alexander Bovio, Williamstown, Williamstown High School, nominated to the United States Naval Academy.
  • Abigail Caraballo, Haddon Heights, Haddon Heights High School, nominated to the United States Naval Academy.
  • Jullian Checchia, Gloucester Township, Camden County College, nominated to the United States Air Force Academy.
  • Andrew Coyne, Harrington Park, Bergen Catholic High School, nominated to the United States Merchant Marine Academy.
  • Andrew Dozier, Southampton, Dwight Global Online High School, nominated to the United States Merchant Marine Academy.
  • Salvatore Fife, Westville, West Deptford High School, nominated to the United States Naval Academy and the United States Military Academy at West Point.
  • Michael Gasiorowski, Haddon Township, Haddon Township High School, nominated to the United States Naval Academy.
  • Julian Hollis, Sicklerville, Camden County Technical School, nominated to the United States Military Academy at West Point.
  • Isaac Kim, Voorhees, Eastern Regional High School, nominated to the United States Naval Academy and the United States Military Academy at West Point.
  • Tyler Le, Pennsauken, Pennsauken High School, nominated to the United States Naval Academy.
  • Maximo Maletta, Washington Township, Washington Township High School, nominated to the United States Military Academy at West Point.
  • Jack Olivo, Turnersville, St. Augustine Preparatory School, nominated to the United States Military Academy at West Point.
  • Ethan Poplawski, Franklin, Pope John XXIII High School, nominated to the United States Merchant Marine Academy.
  • Samuel Spaulding, Runnemede, Camden Catholic High School, nominated to the United States Naval Academy.
  • Michael Stanwood, Pitman, Gloucester County Institute of Technology, nominated to the United States Military Academy at West Point.
  • Madison Ver Hage, Paramus, Paramus High School, nominated to the United States Merchant Marine Academy.
  • Isaac Wadusky, Woodbury, Gloucester County Institute of Technology, nominated to the United States Naval Academy.

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Congresswoman Betty McCollum Re-introduces The Defending the Human Rights of Palestinian Children and Families Living Under Israeli Military Occupation Act

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn)

Legislation would promote human rights, peace, and justice for Palestinians living in the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Amid Israel’s military occupation of the West Bank and escalating violence against Palestinians, Congresswoman Betty McCollum today re-introduced The Defending the Human Rights of Palestinian Children and Families Living Under Israeli Military Occupation Act (read bill text here). Congresswoman McCollum introduced similar legislation during the 115th, 116th, 117th and 118th Congresses.

The legislation would prohibit Israel’s government from using U.S. taxpayer dollars in the Occupied West Bank for the military detention, abuse, or ill treatment of Palestinian children in Israeli military detention; the seizure and destruction of Palestinian property and homes in violation of international humanitarian law; or any assistance or support for unilateral annexation of Palestinian lands in violation of international humanitarian law. 

“Not one dollar from United States taxpayers should be used to commit human rights violations, demolish families’ homes, or permanently annex Palestinian lands,” said Congresswoman McCollum. “Americans provide billions of dollars in assistance for Israel’ government every year – those dollars should be used to improve Israel’s security, not to advance the extremist aims of the Netanyahu government. As the Netanyahu government continues to expand its annexation of the West Bank, this legislation is a timely reminder to our ally of the United States’ position that peace must remain the objective. Peace can only be achieved through a meaningful two-state solution, and Congress has a moral obligation to hold our ally Israel accountable for the well-documented mistreatment of Palestinian children and families living under Israeli military occupation.

“We have seen a groundswell of support for the Palestinian people in recent years, as more Americans support their efforts to achieve justice, equality, human rights, and self-determination,” added Congresswoman McCollum. “Prominent civil society organizations, as well as faith leaders from the Jewish, Christian, and Muslim faiths, have endorsed this legislation because we all agree that no child should grow up enduring the horrors of unending armed conflict. There is a path to a peaceful future, and it requires leading with our U.S. values of democracy and equal justice for all.”

The Defending the Human Rights of Palestinian Children and Families Living Under Israeli Military Occupation Act would require the Secretary of State to certify annually to Congress that foreign aid to Israel does not violate any of the outlined prohibited uses.

The legislation would also require the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) to submit an annual report to Congress detailing the expenditure of U.S. taxpayer funds by Israel for “off-shore procurement” and compliance with Congressionally mandated requirements, providing transparency and accountability for the expenditure of U.S. foreign aid, as we do with all countries.

Original co-sponsors of the Defending the Human Rights of Palestinian Children and Families Living Under Israeli Military Occupation Act include Representatives Carson, Casar, Evans (PA), Garcia (IL), Jayapal, Norton, Ocasio-Cortez, Omar, Pingree, Ramirez, Tonko, Watson Coleman, Pocan, and McGovern.

The legislation has been endorsed by nearly a dozen civil society organizations including JStreet, New Jewish Narrative, Oxfam America, Friends Committee on National Legislation (FCNL), Center for Jewish Nonviolence, Peace Action, Win Without War, Demand Progress, Arab American Institute, T’ruah: The Rabbinic Call for Human Rights, and Center for International Policy.