Dingell Announces More Than $43.5 Million in HHS Grants for the University of Michigan

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (12th District of Michigan)

Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (MI-06) today announced that the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor will receive $43,576,094 in federal grant funding from the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to support a wide range of research initiatives, including aging, diabetes, neurological disorders, cancer, and more.

“This funding is essential to maintaining the University of Michigan’s leadership in research and innovation. It supports researchers with the federal backing necessary to advance their groundbreaking work,” said Dingell. “Moreover, these grants represent a meaningful investment in the health, safety, and well-being of our broader community. They bring us one step closer to securing better treatments and improving patient outcomes.”

Projects receiving funding include:  

  • $497,042 for Arthritis Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases Research
  • $7,608,704 for Research for Mothers and Children
  • $508,576 for Heart and Vascular Diseases Research
  • $5,481,101 for Diabetes Endocrinology and Metabolic Research
  • $6,287,247 for Aging Research
  • $250,000 for Allergy Immunology and Transplantation Research
  • $1,987,767 for Pharmacology Physiology and Biological Chemistry Research
  • $2,400,186 for Clinical Research Related to Neurological Disorders
  • $682,272 for Cancer Cause and Prevention Research
  • $1,129,003 for Alcohol Research Programs
  • $2,494,654 for Cancer Detection and Diagnosis Research
  • $193,241 for Rigorously Evaluating Programs and Policies to Prevent Child Sexual Abuse
  • $937,347 for Lung Diseases Research
  • $3,133,754 for Biological Response to Environmental Health Hazards
  • $2,303,520 for Cancer Centers Support
  • $3,017,704 for Oral Diseases and Disorders Research
  • $500,000 for Identify and Evaluate Potential Risk Factors for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
  • $2,864,671 for Cancer Treatment Research
  • $799,355 for Research Grants for Preventing Violence and Violence Related Injury
  • $499,950 for Health Promotion and Disease Prevention Research Centers: 2025 Special Interest Project Competitive Supplements (SIPS)

Find a full list of projects receiving grant funding here.

HHS is the largest grant-making agency in the US. Most HHS grants are provided directly to states, territories, tribes, and educational and community organizations, then distributed to eligible individuals and organizations. For more information on HHS grants, click here.

Rep. Dina Titus Introduces Legislation to Improve Safety of Micromobility Devices

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Dina Titus (1st District of Nevada)

Congresswoman Titus (D-NV1) today introduced legislation to help keep children and young adults who use electric scooters and other micromobility devices safe.

“We can and must do more to circumvent preventable traffic accidents,” said Congresswoman Titus. “My MOVE Act will help us better understand the risks associated with using electric scooters and other micromobility devices. By establishing best practices for safety and unlocking funding for educational campaigns, my bill will help families make more informed decisions about how young people can safely engage with these devices.”

The Micromobility Oversight and Vulnerability Evaluation (MOVE) Act directs the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) to study the risks of injuries and deaths associated with using micromobility devices, with a focus on children and young adults.

The bill directs NHTSA to develop best practices for using micromobility devices to help save lives and prevent serious injuries. It also authorizes NHTSA to fund public education and awareness campaigns for safely using these devices.

Micromobility devices, such as electric bikes and scooters, are important to transportation in Las Vegas. In recent years, however, hospitals in Southern Nevada have seen a startling increase in injuries and fatalities involving those devices. In November, Sunrise Hospital Trauma Center had treated over 170 patients with injuries related to e-scooters and e-bikes so far this year. Meanwhile, University Medical Center Trauma Center had treated nearly 190 injured e-scooter or e-bike riders in 2025, which represents a 400 percent increase over the past three years.

In 2024, Nevada ranked the 10th deadliest state for pedestrians in the United States. In fact, 2024 was the deadliest year on Clark County roads, with 293 fatalities, 95 of whom were pedestrians.

Even one traffic fatality in Nevada is too many. The MOVE Act will help promote safe transportation on Las Vegas streets, keeping children and vulnerable road users safe.

“Safe Kids Worldwide applauds Representative Dina Titus on the introduction of the MOVE Act,” said Safe Kids Worldwide President Torine Creppy. “Micromobility devices such as e-bikes and e-scooters continue to grow in popularity, and coalitions across the Safe Kids network have seen a rise in injuries associated with these new forms of transportation. With demand for these modes increasing, particularly among children and young people, it is imperative that we update our bike and pedestrian safety education practices to keep them safe. We are grateful for Representative Titus’ leadership and long-standing commitment to safety and look forward to working with her to advance this important legislation.”

This legislation has been endorsed by Safe Kids Worldwide; PedSafe Vegas; Safe Routes Partnership; League of American Bicyclists; Commissioner Michael Naft; and PeopleForBikes.

Bipartisan Statement from All 25 Jewish House Members on Antisemitic Attack in Australia

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Brad Sherman (D-CA)

WASHINGTON, DC — All 25 Jewish Members of the US House of Representatives, including Congressman Brad Sherman (CA-32), released the following statement in response to an attack on Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia that targeted Jewish people celebrating the first night of Hanukkah: 

“On a night meant for celebration, Jewish families in Australia, gathering in joy and peace on the first night of Hanukkah, were grotesquely targeted with hate and murderous intent. Sadly, this attack does not come as a surprise to the Jewish community of Sydney who have been raising a clarion call for local and national authorities to take concrete steps against a rising tide of antisemitism. 

“We stand in solidarity with the Australian Jewish community and together extend our condolences to the family and friends of the people murdered and are praying for the complete recovery of the dozens wounded, and the entire Jewish community feeling besieged. 

“Antisemitism is a cancer that eats at the core of society, whether in Australia, the United States, or anywhere it is allowed to take root and grow. We join leaders around the globe in condemning this evil act and in calling for justice, peace, and unwavering support for those affected. We also call on all leaders to do better standing up to antisemitism, bigotry, and hate. We must also do better in our work for a world where everyone can celebrate their faith and traditions free from discrimination and fear. 

“Jews around the world will continue to gather this week to celebrate Hanukkah and its story of religious freedom and defiant optimism. As we light the menorah each night and remember the miracle of the festival of lights, let us proclaim that light is stronger than darkness, right is stronger than might, and justice is stronger than tyranny. Wishing all Jewish communities and the world around us strength and peace.” 

The 25 members who signed the statement include:

  • Rep. Brad Sherman (D-CA)
  • Rep. Becca Balint (D-VT)
  • Rep. Jake Auchincloss (D-MA)
  • Rep. Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR)
  • Rep. Steve Cohen (D-TN)
  • Rep. Randy Fine (R-FL)
  • Rep. Lois Frankel (D-FL)
  • Rep. Laura Friedman (D-CA)
  • Rep. Craig Goldman (R-TX)
  • Rep. Daniel Goldman (D-NY)
  • Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ)
  • Rep. Sara Jacobs (D-CA)
  • Rep. David Kustoff (R-TN)
  • Rep. Greg Landsman (D-OH)
  • Rep. Mike Levin (D-CA)
  • Rep. Seth Magaziner (D-RI)
  • Rep. Max Miller (R-OH)
  • Rep. Jared Moskowitz (D-FL)
  • Rep. Jerrold Nadler (D-NY)
  • Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-MD)
  • Rep. Jan Schakowsky (D-IL)
  • Rep. Brad Schneider (D-IL)
  • Rep. Kim Schrier (D-WA)
  • Rep. Eugene Vindman (D-VA)
  • Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL) 

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Congressman Estes Announces Staff Changes

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas)

Congressman Estes Announces Staff Changes

Washington, December 15, 2025

U.S. Representative Ron Estes (R-Kansas) has hired Natalie Turner as Communications Director to replace Roman Rodriguez, who is now District Director and Senior Communications Advisor. Rodriguez took over the position on May 1. He has been in a communications role with Rep. Estes since October 2017, working out of his Wichita district office. 

Turner is a Kansas native who recently served as a Public Affairs Specialist with the Kansas Bureau of Investigation, and before that as Deputy Press Secretary for U.S. Senator Roger Marshall (R-Kansas). In this new capacity as Communications Director, she will be based out of Rep. Estes’ D.C. office. 

“I’m excited about these staff changes on our team and look forward to Team Estes’ collaboration to continue working to deliver results for Kansans across the entire 4th District,” Congressman Estes said. 

Rep. Carter Leads Letter Calling for Inspector General Investigation into Handling of Army Physician Case

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative John R Carter (R-TX-31)

(Washington, DC) Representative John Carter (TX-31), Co-Chairman of the House Army Caucus, led a letter along with Senators Cornyn and Cruz, and Representative August Pfluger (TX-11), calling for an Inspector General to conduct an independent investigation into the handling of disturbing allegations involving Major Blaine McGraw.

“As a former judge and Co-Chair of the House Army Caucus, I find the allegations against Major McGraw to be an egregious breach of the trust placed in him and the oversight failures that allowed him to continue practicing are equally alarming,” said Congressman Carter. “The Inspector General must conduct a thorough, independent investigation to determine how this individual was able to continue victimizing Soldiers and their families. I expect this matter to be handled swiftly and with the utmost respect for the survivors, and I will be closely monitoring the findings to ensure that decisive steps are taken to prevent this from ever happening again.”

“The Army and Department of War Inspector Generals must conduct an investigation into the systemic failures that allowed Major Blaine McGraw to continue in his capacity amidst multiple accusations of egregious sexual misconduct,” said Sen. Cornyn. “The allegations made against Major McGraw and how they were mishandled warrant a thorough investigation, and I implore the Army and the Department to promptly look into this matter, bring justice to his countless victims, and work to prevent another failing in the future.”

A copy of the letter can be found below or by clicking here.

Dear Lieutenant General Brady,

I am writing to request immediate and comprehensive action regarding the deeply disturbing allegations involving Major McGraw, a former Army physician in Texas. The reports indicating widespread misconduct toward service members and military families raise profound concerns about clinical oversight, command accountability, and the integrity of the military health system.

These accusations do not reflect isolated lapses; they point to potential long-term failures. Because the alleged conduct may have occurred over an extended period and across multiple duty stations, it is imperative that any review extends far beyond a routine internal inquiry.

I urge you to ensure that the Department of War initiates an independent, thorough investigation into both Major McGraw’s actions and the Army’s handling of prior complaints or warning signs. This review must safeguard patient privacy, protect potential victims, and evaluate whether pathways for reporting medical misconduct were available and effective.

In addition, I request that the Department of War Office of Inspector General promptly examine how clinical, command, and Defense Health Agency oversight structures failed to identify and intervene in this case. A transparent assessment of systemic shortcomings, and actionable recommendations to strengthen standards of care and accountability will be essential to restoring trust within the military community.

To support the Department’s review and to ensure transparency for those affected, I request answers to the following questions:

  • Will the Department ensure a comprehensive investigation into all allegations involving Major McGraw, including an assessment of the Army command climate, supervisory actions, and compliance with applicable medical and reporting policies at each installation where he served?
  • What trauma-informed resources, victim assistance programs, and behavioral health services will the Department and the Army make available to former patients and their families during the investigative process?
  • Has the Department notified the Texas Medical Board or other relevant state licensing authorities of Major McGraw’s suspension and the ongoing criminal investigation? If not, when will such notification occur?
  • Will the Department commit to identifying any systemic or oversight failures that enabled this alleged misconduct, and provide a plan for implementing corrective actions to prevent similar breakdowns in the future?
  • Will the Department review oversight, supervision, and reporting requirements within Defense Health Agency Graduate Medical Education programs to ensure trainees are appropriately monitored and patient safety is protected?
  • Will the Department review the conduct and reporting actions of medical supervisors and personnel who worked with Major McGraw to determine whether they fulfilled their obligations under Army and DoW policy?
  • What policies, reporting pathways, and oversight mechanisms will the Department and the DoW Inspector General review to ensure that patients who experience misconduct by military medical providers can report concerns safely and with confidence that their complaints will be addressed.

The men and women served by the military health system deserve confidence that their care is provided in an environment that prioritizes safety, accountability, and professionalism. I appreciate your attention to this urgent matter and request to be kept informed of the Department’s findings and next steps.

Congressman Adam Smith Condemns Bondi Beach Antisemitic Attack and Brown University Shooting

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Adam Smith (9th District of Washington)

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Adam Smith (D-Wash.) today condemned two deadly shootings that occurred over the weekend, including the antisemitic terrorist attack at a Hanukkah celebration near Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia, and the shooting at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island.
 
“Our hearts are with the victims, their families, and the communities affected by the tragic deadly shootings over the weekend. The antisemitic attack at a Hanukkah celebration near Bondi Beach was a deliberate act of hatred against Jewish families celebrating their faith, and it is a painful reminder that antisemitism remains a real and dangerous threat around the world. At the same time, the shooting at Brown University once again underscores the devastating toll of gun violence on our communities. No one should fear for their safety while celebrating a holiday or attending school. We must stand united against antisemitism, racism, and all forms of hatred, and continue working with urgency to protect our communities and prevent this kind of violence from happening again.”

Castro, McGovern, Massie Introduce Bipartisan War Powers Resolution to Block Trump Administration’s Escalating Hostilities Toward Venezuela

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Joaquin Castro (20th District of Texas)

December 02, 2025

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Joaquin Castro (D-TX), Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee’s Western Hemisphere Subcommittee, Congressman Jim McGovern (D-MA), Ranking Member of the House Rules Committee and Co-Chair of the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission, and Congressman Thomas Massie (R-KY), have introduced a War Powers Resolution to block the Trump administration from engaging in hostilities within or against Venezuela absent congressional authorization.

The introduction of the resolution follows President Trump’s recent social media declaration that the airspace “above and surrounding Venezuela” should be treated as “closed in its entirety.” Administration officials hve not publicly detailed any formal policy or legal basis for such a step, which many legal experts say could be interpreted as a hostile act under international law. The sponsors of the resolution say this escalation—including the significant augmentation of U.S. armed forces assets, personnel, and operations in proximity to Venezuela and statements from U.S. officials regarding planning for ground strikes within Venezuela—shows why Congress must urgently reassert its constitutional role.

“President Trump has undermined our alliances in the Western Hemisphere, openly interfered in elections, conducted illegal strikes on boats in the Caribbean, and threatened foreign military intervention. He has put our country at the brink of a war with Venezuela without a debate or vote in the Congress,” said Congressman Castro. “This resolution will ensure that every member of the House is on the record about sending service members to a war that Americans do not want.”

“Donald Trump claimed he would put America first—instead he’s trying to drag us into an illegal war in Venezuela,” said Congressman McGovern. “Whatever this is about, it has nothing to do with stopping drugs. Trump just pardoned the former President of Honduras who was convicted of sending cocaine to the U.S. And last year he pardoned a guy who brought fentanyl in from China via the dark web. To me, this appears to be all about creating a pretext for regime change. And I believe Congress has a duty to step in and assert our constitutional authority. No more illegal boat strikes, and no unauthorized war in Venezuela.”

“The Constitution does not permit the executive branch to unilaterally commit an act of war against a sovereign nation that hasn’t attacked the United States,” said Congressman Massie. “Congress has the sole power to declare war against Venezuela. Congress must decide such matters according to our Constitution.”

The Trump administration has not requested authorization for use of military force against Venezuela, and still has not provided a credible justification for the unauthorized military strikes it has carried out on vessels in the region, actions that have resulted in the extrajudicial killing of dozens of people. Nor has the administration shown why these boats could not have been interdicted and investigated, or why the individuals on board could not have been brought to justice rather than targeted and killed without due process.

Introduced pursuant to the War Powers Resolution of 1973, the measure is privileged and should receive consideration in the House.McGovern, Massie and Castro stressed that their goal is to force a debate and a vote before any further escalation.

Additional cosponsors include Representatives Ro Khanna (D-CA), Sara Jacobs (D-CA) and Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-CA).

A full text of the resolution can be found here.


PRESS RELEASE: Rep. Barragán Responds to FCC’s Decision to Publish Multilingual Wireless Emergency Alerts Requirements, After Leading Letter Demanding Their Implementation

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Nanette Diaz Barragán (CA-44)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  

December 12, 2025

Contact: Jin.Choi@mail.house.gov

Rep. Barragán Responds to FCC’s Decision to Publish Multilingual Wireless Emergency Alerts Requirements, After Leading Letter Demanding Their Implementation

Washington, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Nanette Barragán (CA-44) released the following statement in response to the FCC’s recent publishing of the multilingual wireless emergency alert order in the Federal Register:

“I’m pleased to see the FCC take this important first step toward ensuring that immigrants, tourists, and other non-English speakers have the information they need to stay safe during emergency situations. Lives are on the line, and I’ll be watching closely to ensure that the FCC and mobile service providers follow through and work in good faith to implement this critical policy.”

Earlier this year, Rep. Barragán led a letter to the FCC to demand that it stop delaying and publish the order so that communities with limited English proficiency could have the information they need to stay safe during emergencies. 

Companies will now have 30 months to update standards, design, develop, and deploy the templates.

To see the full text of the letter, click HERE

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THOMPSON RELEASES STATEMENT ON HOUSE PASSAGE OF NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mike Thompson Representing the 5th District of CALIFORNIA

Washington, D.C. — Today, Rep. Mike Thompson (CA-04) released the following statement in response to the House’s passage of the National Defense Authorization Act: 

“As a combat veteran, I know the horrors of war and will do everything in my power to prevent unnecessary conflict.

“That’s why I voted yes on the National Defense Authorization Act today. This bill restricts the President’s ability to direct military strikes without Congressional authorization and requires this administration turn over all documents on its Venezuelan boat strikes to Congress for an investigation.

“I’m proud that Democrats got the anti-trans healthcare provisions removed from this bill and fought to ensure this bill cracks down on wasteful defense purchases.”

THOMPSON, FONG’S BIPARTISAN CLERGY ACT PASSES WAYS AND MEANS COMMITTEE WITH UNANIMOUS VOTE

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mike Thompson Representing the 5th District of CALIFORNIA

Washington – Today, the House Ways and Means Committee voted unanimously to advance H.R. 227, Rep. Mike Thompson’s Clergy Act, a major step forward in giving pastors and clergy members greater retirement security. Congressman Thompson co-leads this bipartisan bill with colleague Rep. Vince Fong (CA-20).

“Faith leaders play a critical role in supporting our communities — offering them the flexibility to opt in to Social Security as they plan for retirement just makes sense. I’m glad to co-lead this bipartisan effort with Rep. Fong and I look forward to continuing our work to pass this into law,” said Thompson.

“We know our faith leaders are the backbone of our communities, guiding moral and spiritual life across the Central Valley and our entire nation,” said Fong. “The Clergy Act gives them the freedom to re-enroll in Social Security if they previously opted out, empowering them to take greater control of their financial future.”

BACKGROUND 

The Clergy Act would establish a one-time re-enrollment window for clergy members who previously opted out of Social Security, many in their youth, to voluntarily opt back in. Some of our faith leaders opted out decades ago, often due to inaccurate advice or conscientious objection, only to later face significant financial hardship. Under current law, this opt-out is permanent. For clergy who have spent their lives serving their communities and congregations, this legislation restores the freedom to secure basic financial protection in retirement.

The Clergy Act creates a two-year window – covering taxable years beginning January 1, 2028, and January 1, 2029 – for eligible clergy members who previously opted out of Social Security to revoke their exemption and begin contributing. Importantly, this legislation does not modify existing Social Security regulations. Eligible clergy must still meet the standard 10-year contribution requirement to earn full retired-worker benefits, receiving benefits proportional to their contributions. The bill also requires the Internal Revenue System (IRS) and Social Security Administration to submit a plan to Congress outlining their strategy to inform clergy members of their eligibility to re-enroll. Historically, Congress has approved limited re-enrollment windows, including in 1999 under the Ticket to Work Act. 

The Clergy Act is supported by a broad coalition of faith-based and retirement security organizations, including the National Association of Evangelicals, Church Alliance, Evangelical Council of Financial Accountability (ECFA), and GuideStone Financial Resources, and Lancaster Baptist Church.

Today, the House Ways and Means Committee advanced the Clergy Act with overwhelming bipartisan support on a 40–0 vote. Now, the bill is ready to be considered by and voted on the House floor. Rep. Thompson will continue to work to urge the Speaker to bring the bill up for a vote.