Author: MIL-OSI Publisher

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Gregory W Meeks (5th District of New York)

Washington, D.C. – Representative Gregory W. Meeks, Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, today issued a statement following the Trump administration’s decision to invoke the Arms Control Act’s Emergency Authority for multiple cases of over 20,000 bombs worth over $650 million.

“Today’s invocation of the Arms Export Control Act’s emergency authority to bypass congressional review for two munitions cases to Israel exposes a stark contradiction at the heart of this administration’s case for war. The Trump administration has repeatedly insisted it was fully prepared for this war. Rushing to invoke emergency authority to circumvent Congress tells a different story. This is an emergency of the Trump administration’s own creation.

“Fundamental questions about this unauthorized war remain unanswered: What is the endgame? What preparations have been made to protect American citizens in the region? And how much will this war cost the American people? The administration has provided no credible answers. The American people deserve answers, and Congress must demand them.”

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Haley Stevens (MI-11)

Washington, DC — Today, Congresswoman Haley Stevens (D-MI) released the following statement in reaction to stunning job loss numbers in February:

“Today’s dismal jobs report finally catches up to what Michiganders have been feeling for months: workers and businesses are finding it harder and harder to get by thanks to Donald Trump’s reckless tariffs. Rather than listen to warnings from top economists, pleas from Michigan families, and orders from the Supreme Court, Donald Trump is doubling down and working to force more pain on Americans at the pump, at the checkout counter, and at the dealership. I will keep fighting to lower costs, end Trump’s painful tariffs, and create more opportunities for Michiganders to get good-paying jobs.”

 

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Haley Stevens (MI-11)

Washington, D.C. – In case you missed it, Michigan Congresswomen Haley Stevens and Debbie Dingell introduced the Justice for Allie Act, legislation to protect vulnerable adults from online sexual exploitation and close dangerous gaps in federal law when these crimes cross state lines.

Named for Michigan advocate Allie Hayes, the bill builds on Michigan’s unanimously passed Justice for Allie law and would make it a federal crime to knowingly coerce, manipulate, or entice a vulnerable adult into sending intimate images with the intent to cause harm.

Here’s what Michiganders are seeing and reading about Rep. Haley Stevens fighting to protect vulnerable adults and hold online predators accountable:

WXYZ: Troy woman’s story reaches US Congress with ‘Justice for Allie Act’

By: Brett Kast

• U.S. Reps. Debbie Dingell, Ann Arbor, and Haley Stevens, Birmingham, have officially introduced the Justice for Allie Act in Congress today — federal legislation modeled closely after the Michigan law, which earned unanimous bipartisan support. The federal version includes language that adds “with the intent to cause harm.”
• “Allie and her family, they’re pretty convincing. She’s a pretty special person,” Stevens said. “This landmark legislation will put up federal guardrails, federal offenses for those who intend to do harm to exploit those with intellectual and developmental disabilities, no matter their age.”

WLNS: Michigan woman with Down syndrome inspires federal push to shield vulnerable adults from online abuse

By: Brad LaPlante

• U.S. Reps. Debbie Dingell (D-Ann Arbor) and Haley Stevens (D-Birmingham) are leading a new federal push to crack down on online predators who target adults with disabilities, inspired by the case of a Michigan woman with Down syndrome whose family could not find justice under existing law.
• The legislation is named for Allie Hayes, a Michigan woman with Down syndrome who was targeted by an online predator in 2017. Because Hayes was over 18, her family discovered there was no clear legal pathway to hold the perpetrator accountable. Her parents, Dawn and Mark Hayes, have spent nearly a decade pushing for changes in both state and federal law.
• Their efforts helped lead Michigan’s Justice for Allie law, written by state Rep. Sharon MacDonnell (D-Troy) and signed by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer in 2023 after winning unanimous support in the Legislature. The new bill would implement the model nationwide.
• “The internet is everywhere — we cannot let online predators evade prosecution simply because their crimes cross state lines,” Stevens said in a statement.

WNEM

• Two Congresswomen representing Michigan want to take a state law national, proposing legislation they say would close a major gap in fighting sexual exploitation.
• Representatives Haley Stevens and Debbie Dingell introduced the Justice for Allie Act. Now the legislation would make it a federal crime to knowingly coerce, manipulate, or entice a vulnerable adult into sending intimate images with the intent to cause harm.

WXYZ

• At just 18 years old, Allie Hayes, who has Down syndrome, was targeted online by a predator who coerced her into sending explicit photos. Well, since then Allie and her family have spent years fighting to protect other vulnerable adults.
• Well, this moment has been years in the making for Allie Hayes and her family. As you can see in this photo, it was just over two years ago that Governor Whitmer signed Justice for Allie into law, and now, here in 2026 this law could go from the Governor’s desk to the President’s desk.
• As Allie continued to share her story, she got the attention of lawmakers in Washington like Congresswoman Debbie Dingell and Haley Stevens, who introduced the Justice For Allie Act today in Congress.
• “And this is a proud moment, and it’s going to be an even prouder moment when we get this bill signed into law.”
• The legislation is very similar to the law passed in Michigan which garnered strong bipartisan support. The Hayes family hopes for the same here knowing justice for Allie is only justice because of Allie.

WLAJ

• In Washington, Michigan Representatives Haley Stevens and Debbie Dingell introduced the Justice for Allie Act. It would make it a federal crime to knowingly coerce, manipulate, or entice a vulnerable adult into sending intimate images with the intent to cause harm.
• The bill closes a major gap in federal law by addressing online sexual exploitation that crosses state lines. The legislation is named for Allie Hayes, a Michigan woman with Down syndrome who was targeted by an online predator in 2017.

WDIV

• The Michigan woman who inspired the state’s Justice For Allie law is now at the center of a new push in Washington.
• Congresswomen Debbie Dingell and Haley Stevens have introduced a bill they say would close a gap that let online predators slip through the cracks when the victim is a vulnerable adult, and the crime crosses state lines.
• Well back in 2023, state law prohibited people from taking advantage of the disabled to make them give up sexually explicit material. The thing is, the law has not gone national, but the Hayes family says it’s about time it goes federal.
• Now when it comes to that law that’s being proposed by Congresswoman Dingell and Stevens, they’re hoping they can get it through the House during this session of Congress.

WOOD

• In Washington, Michigan Representatives Haley Stevens and Debbie Dingell have introduced the Justice for Allie Act. It would make it a federal crime to knowingly coerce, manipulate, or entice a vulnerable adult into sending intimate images with intent to cause harm.
• The bill closes a major gap in federal law by addressing online sexual exploitation that crosses state lines. The legislation is named for Allie Hayes, a Michigan woman with Down syndrome who was targeted by an online predator in 2017.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (8th District of Illinois)

WASHINGTON – Following this weekend’s surge in oil prices — with the price per barrel climbing into triple digits, the highest level in four years — Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08) called on President Trump to act immediately to lower costs at the pump:

“Because of President Trump’s war in Iran, the average price per gallon in Illinois has soared by nearly fifty cents in just the past month. President Trump might say this is a ‘very small price to pay,’ but families struggling to fill their tanks disagree. By now it’s clear that the President started this war with no strategy, no plan to end it, and no concern for its impacts on hard-working Americans.

Today, I am calling on the White House to immediately tap the Strategic Petroleum Reserve to reduce the price of gas. President Trump’s failure to tap the Reserve — which we did most recently when the war in Ukraine began — is inexplicable. It’s simple: Illinois families did not want President Trump’s war, and they certainly should not be forced to pay for President Trump’s war.”

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sharice Davids (KS-3)

Today, Representative Sharice Davids announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation has awarded $13.3 million to the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority (KCATA) to purchase replacement buses and rehabilitate a local bus facility in the Kansas City region. The award stems from the recently passed bipartisan funding agreement for Fiscal Year 2026, which Davids helped pass.

“This new federal investment means safer, more reliable buses and better service for the Kansans who depend on public transit every day,” said Davids. “Whether it’s getting to work, school, or a doctor’s appointment, strong transit systems keep our communities moving. I’m proud to help deliver bipartisan results that bring real improvements home to the Kansas City region.” 

Through the Department of Transportation, the Federal Transit Administration’s Grants for Buses and Bus Facilities Program provides funds to state and local transit agencies across the country to revitalize and purchase buses and vans for transport purposes and renewing previous bus transport facilities.

“We are grateful to our bistate congressional delegation for working so hard to earn this grant award and for their continued support of mobility in the Kansas City region, especially as we prepare for the World Cup,” said Chuck Ferguson, Interim President and CEO, KCATA. “We also appreciate the continued partnership with Unified Government Transit and Johnson County Transit. Together, we are committed to improving transportation options that connect people to opportunities. This grant will improve mobility for thousands of transit riders who depend on bus service every day, expanding access to employment, education, healthcare, and other important services in their communities.”

Davids has a strong record of supporting public services like reliable public transit. She helped secure $100 million in federal funds for local transit agencies ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup and hosted local leaders and transportation organizations for a roundtable discussion on the upcoming surface transportation reauthorization bill. The Fiscal Year 2026 budget will invest an additional $9.2 million in Kansas projects, including street signal replacements, intersection improvements, and more for Kansans. 

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Don Beyer (D-VA)

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) today issued its February 2026 jobs report, which found that the economy shed 92,000 jobs, raising the unemployment rate to 4.4 percent – one of the highest unemployment rates since 2021. Since President Trump’s tariffs took effect in April 2025, the U.S. economy has, on balance, lost a total of 19,000 jobs. This is a dramatic change from the year before Trump took office, when the economy was averaging 168,000 jobs added per month.

Rep. Don Beyer, Senior House Democrat on the Joint Economic Committee, said:

“This awful jobs report should be a flashing red warning light for the Trump Administration. Already under strain from the President’s disastrous trade war and anti-immigrant crusade, our economy is extremely ill-prepared to deal with yet another wave of Trump-induced chaos, this time in the form of an illegal war of choice in the Middle East which is rapidly driving up energy prices across the globe.

“Far from sparking a manufacturing renaissance, Trump’s tariffs have worsened a months-long slide in blue-collar employment. Those jobs now sit roughly half a million below what was projected in 2023 and 2024. Meanwhile, service-sector hiring – especially in healthcare, which has long been the main engine of job growth – is slowing and reporting losses.

“The disastrous consequences of Trump’s erratic decisions are becoming clearer by the day. Mounting uncertainty is leading companies to slow hiring. Meanwhile, as Americans pay more for groceries, electricity, housing, and health care, Republicans in Congress continue to cede their power to rein in the Trump Administration’s catastrophic and harmful policies.”

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Salud Carbajal (CA-24)

Today, Congressman Salud Carbajal (D-CA-24) announced the six recipients of the 2026 Central Coast Women of the Year Award, recognizing extraordinary women whose leadership, compassion, and service have made a lasting impact across California’s Central Coast.

The six winners of this year’s award are: Hortensia “Tensie” Hernandez from Santa Maria, Dr. Mary Parker from San Luis Obispo, Sarah Aguilar from Oak View, Myra Paige from Santa Barbara, Sonia Behrman from Santa Barbara, and Linda Krop from Santa Barbara.

“Each year, I am inspired by the extraordinary women who dedicate their time and talents to strengthening our communities across the Central Coast,” said Rep. Carbajal. “The 2026 Women of the Year honorees represent the very best of our region — leaders, caregivers, advocates, and changemakers whose work touches countless lives. Their commitment to serving others reminds us that real change happens when people step up to support their neighbors and build a more compassionate community.”

The Central Coast Women of the Year Award honors exceptional women across California’s 24th Congressional District who have made a meaningful impact on their communities. The award recognizes women from diverse backgrounds and professions who are working every day to improve the quality of life throughout the Central Coast.

Congressman Carbajal will recognize the winners by permanently entering the accomplishments of each honoree into the official Congressional Record, preserving their stories and contributions for generations to come. An award ceremony will be held at a later date, where each honoree will also receive a special congressional pin.

Below are the biographies for this year’s honorees:

Hortensia “Tensie” Hernandez, Santa Maria

Hortensia “Tensie” Hernandez has dedicated her life to serving the poor and marginalized across the Central Coast. Growing up as the youngest daughter of an immigrant single mother of five, she developed a deep commitment to helping others at an early age. Through her leadership at Beatitude House and her decades of community service, Tensie has helped provide food, care, and dignity to thousands of families in need. Her lifelong mission to uplift the most vulnerable members of the community has made a lasting difference in Santa Maria and beyond.

Dr. Mary Parker, San Luis Obispo

Dr. Mary Parker is a beloved educator and community leader whose decades of service have helped shape the future of health care on the Central Coast. During her career at Cuesta College, she trained generations of nurses who went on to serve communities across California. Even in retirement, Dr. Parker continues her work to support those in need as President of People’s Kitchen, where she has helped provide tens of thousands of meals to individuals and families experiencing food insecurity. Her dedication to both education and service has left an enduring legacy in San Luis Obispo County.

Sarah Aguilar, Oak View

Sarah Aguilar serves as Director of Santa Barbara County Animal Services, where her innovative leadership has transformed animal welfare across the region. Under her direction, the department has strengthened partnerships with shelters, volunteers, and community organizations to improve outcomes for animals in need. Through collaboration, compassion, and forward-thinking policies, Sarah has helped build a more humane and responsive animal services system that benefits both animals and the communities that care for them.

Myra Paige, Santa Barbara

Myra Paige is a tireless civic leader who has mobilized hundreds of volunteers to strengthen democracy and expand civic engagement across the Central Coast. Through her organizing and advocacy, she has helped protect immigrant communities, encourage voter participation, and empower residents to become active participants in shaping their communities. Myra’s work has inspired countless individuals to raise their voices and contribute to a more inclusive and engaged civic life.

Sonia Behrman, Santa Barbara

Sonia Behrman’s life is a powerful story of resilience, compassion, and service. As a nurse and foster parent, she has devoted herself to caring for others and supporting vulnerable children and families. By opening her home and heart to those in need, Sonia has provided stability, love, and opportunity to young people during some of the most challenging moments in their lives. Her selfless dedication continues to strengthen families and communities throughout Santa Barbara.

Linda Krop, Santa Barbara

Linda Krop is a longtime environmental champion whose decades of legal advocacy have helped protect the Central Coast’s treasured coastline and natural resources. Through her work as an environmental attorney, she has played a critical role in preserving open space, safeguarding wildlife habitats, and defending the region’s coastal landscapes for future generations. Linda’s tireless commitment to environmental stewardship has made her one of the Central Coast’s most respected voices for conservation.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Aumua Amata (Western Samoa)

Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata released the following statement honoring the life and public service of Governor Lolo Letalu Matalasi Moliga.

“I am saddened by the passing of Governor Lolo Letalu Matalasi Moliga. He was a strong and decisive leader. Even more importantly, he was a man of faith. 

“I worked with Governor Lolo often in his eight years leading our territory, and I always had great respect for him, and for the will of our people who twice elected him Governor. He was an educator, a businessman, and a longtime dedicated leader among our people, including several key leadership roles before serving as Governor. He has a secure place in American Samoa’s history. 

“My deepest condolences to his dear widow Cynthia Moliga, their daughters, grandsons and the entire family and close friends, and to all the people of American Samoa. We mourn his passing, but remember his life, and we are comforted by our knowledge of his faith. May God bless and be near in this time, as he rests in honored peace.”

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

NEW ORLEANS, La.—Today, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.) joined Fox News’ Fox and Friends Weekend to address radical Democrats defending the Iranian regime over America, urge the Senate to pass the common-sense SAVE America Act, and highlight House Republicans’ efforts to save college sports through the SCORE Act.

Click here or the image above to view Leader Scalise’s full interview. 
Highlights from Leader Scalise’s interview:On Democrats voting against condemning Iran’s terrorism:“I think it was very telling when we had that vote. Very clear language that’s just restated what everybody knows: Iran is the largest state sponsor of terrorism. They’ve killed hundreds of American soldiers over years. All we were doing was laying that out before the vote on whether or not we should be able to take action against them. You saw that. I mean, over 50 Democrats voted basically with the Iranian regime. It’s insane, but it shows you just how far left the Mamdani wing of the Democrat Party has moved. That is where the center of the Democrat Party is, and people need to know that. This is not your father’s Democrat Party. This is a bunch of radicals.”On protecting election integrity through the SAVE America Act:“We worked hard to get the SAVE America Act over to the Senate, just as prove your citizenship to register to vote, and then show a picture ID, just like you do when you get on an airplane or go buy beer. Or, by the way, you could not get into the Democrat Convention without showing ID. Every American gets this. If you want to prevent voter fraud, we have got to get the SAVE America Act to President Trump’s desk. We passed it to the House. It’s in the Senate. They have got to find a way to get that bill to President Trump’s desk if you want to have fair and free elections.”On restoring structure to college athletics through the SCORE Act:“I’m glad that President Trump took the leadership because everybody in college sports, all the schools, all the conferences recognize it’s out of control. It’s the Wild Wild West. When you have 28-year-olds playing on their sixth team, we’ve got to put structure back in college athletics, and they’ve lost lawsuit after lawsuit, so they need Congress to step in. We need antitrust protections. We need to protect the student-athletes better. We need to make sure that the schools can police themselves again. We put together a bill. It’s a very bipartisan bill called the SCORE Act. You saw a lot of people in the room, like Coach Nick Saban, like all the conferences, the HBCUs all support this approach to putting the structure back in place so that schools can govern themselves again, and we can get college athletics back to what it’s supposed to be. It’s a really important bill. We’re going to be moving it in the House soon. Then hopefully, the Senate takes action there because you’ve seen it in college athletics. It’s gotten out of hand. It’s got to get back under control. It’s not just some farm club of professional athletics. Let’s protect women’s sports. Let’s protect the student athletes. That’s what the SCORE Act does.”