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Grothman (R-WI) introduced the Form 5500 Filing Simplification Act, bipartisan legislation to modernize and streamline outdated federal reporting requirements for employer-sponsored retirement plans governed by the Employee Retirement Income Security Act.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

Tonko Statement on Repeal of EPA’s Endangerment Finding

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Paul Tonko (Capital Region New York)

Tonko Statement on Repeal of EPA’s Endangerment Finding

Latest Trump administration action would undermine countless environmental protections that keep families safe & healthy

AMSTERDAM, NY, February 13, 2026

AMSTERDAM, NY — Congressman Paul D. Tonko (NY-20) released the following statement on yesterday’s repeal of the EPA’s “endangerment finding” — the long-standing, scientifically proven conclusion that greenhouse gas pollution warms the planet and harms public health — by the Trump administration:

“The repeal of EPA’s endangerment finding is a giant step backward in our fight to secure a livable planet for future generations. With this action, Donald Trump and his administration have made climate denial the official policy of the United States by once again placing polluter profits ahead of the well-being of American families. While countless Americans suffer from the negative health effects of unchecked corporate pollution and millions more face the extreme weather, wildfires, and droughts it causes, Trump and Lee Zeldin are showing nothing but contempt for their struggles. This policy will only make big polluters richer — and American families will pay the price.”

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Steil-Led Housing Affordability Legislation Passes the House

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Bryan Steil (Wisconsin-1)

Washington, DC – This week, the House of Representatives voted to pass the Housing for the 21st Century Act (H.R. 6644), which includes the Accelerating Home Building Act (H.R. 5907), a bill co-led by Congressman Bryan Steil (WI-01) and Congresswoman Janelle Bynum (OR-05), on a vote of 390-9. 

“Housing costs have doubled over the last eight years in Wisconsin, making homeownership out of reach for many families,” said Steil. “By cutting through red tape and empowering local decision makers to increase supply, we can reduce costs and make it easier for families to purchase a home.”

Housing costs continue to rise due to a lack of supply, workforce shortages, and costly government regulations. These costs have put homeownership out of reach for many families. 

The Accelerating Home Building Act creates a grant program within the Department of Housing and Urban Development to help towns and cities implement pattern zoning, a process for architects and local governments to develop “pattern books” full of pre-approved, standardized plans and designs for use in their communities. This process tackles housing affordability by reducing red tape, lowering design costs, streamlining zoning approvals, and accelerating construction timelines.

CLICK HERE to read the Housing for the 21st Century Act.

CLICK HERE for a one pager on the bill.

 

 

 

 

Congressman Al Green Secures Half a Million Dollars in Federal Funding to Combat Human Trafficking in Harris County Constable Precinct 7

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Al Green (TX-9)

(Houston, TX) —On Friday, February 13, 2026, Congressman Al Green will present a symbolic check for $500,000 to support Harris County Constable Precinct 7 in their combating of human trafficking across underserved communities in the Congressional District. This federal funding will provide specialized officer training and support community-based initiatives focused on prevention, victim services, and enforcement.

Houston continues to rank among the cities with the highest number of reported human trafficking cases in the nation, with vulnerable populations disproportionately impacted. Precinct 7 faces heightened risk due to socioeconomic barriers, major transportation corridors, large event venues such as NRG Stadium, and industries frequently associated with human trafficking activity. The funding will strengthen survivor advocacy services, expand community outreach and education efforts. It will also enhance law enforcement training as well as improve investigative coordination in partnership with local agencies and community organizations. 

Congressman Al Green stated, “Houston is one of the nation’s leading hubs for human trafficking, and far too many vulnerable residents are being exploited in our communities. This funding will help equip Harris County Constable Precinct 7 with the resources necessary to prevent trafficking, protect survivors, and hold traffickers accountable. As Houston prepares to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup, these proactive investments will help ensure we are prepared to address heightened risks of human trafficking and safeguard our communities.  I commend Constable ‘Smokie’ Phillips for his leadership and partnership in strengthening public safety throughout the district.” 

If you or someone you know may be experiencing human trafficking, or if you spot any red flags, help is available. Contact the National Human Trafficking Hotline by calling 1-888-373-7888, texting “HELP” or “INFO” to 233733, or visiting their website for confidential assistance and reporting options. 

Click here at 9:30 AM CT to watch the YouTube Live Stream of the event.

Bacon, Carbajal Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Strengthen Workplace Protections for Cargo Pilots

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Don Bacon (2nd District of Nebraska)

Bacon, Carbajal Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Strengthen Workplace Protections for Cargo Pilots

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representatives Don Bacon (R-NE-02), Salud Carbajal (D-CA-24), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01), and John Garamendi (D-CA-08), introduced the Safe Skies Act, a bipartisan bill to improve workplace protections for cargo pilots. 

Under current law, cargo pilots are operating under weaker flight, duty, and rest regulations than their passenger airline counterparts. This loophole increases the risk of fatigue and jeopardizes the safety of everyone who relies on our shared airspace. The Safe Skies Act closes this loophole by applying the same proven safety standards to cargo pilots that already protect passenger airline crews. 

Read the full text of the legislation here.

“I’m pleased to join my friend and colleague Rep. Carbajal in cosponsoring the Safe Skies Act to ensure one uniform standard of safety in our airspace,” said Rep. Bacon. “Cargo pilots fly in the same skies and land at the same airports as commercial pilots, and they should operate under the same science-based fatigue and rest standards.”

“Every pilot deserves the same workplace protections — whether they’re flying passengers or cargo,” said Rep. Carbajal. “The bipartisan Safe Skies Act is a commonsense step to reduce stress and fatigue for America’s cargo pilots. In doing so, it will enhance the safety of all who travel in our nation’s airspace.”

“When it comes to aviation safety, consistency is not optional—it is essential,” said Rep. Fitzpatrick. “Protecting our skies requires vigilance, accountability, and a commitment to getting the standards right. Cargo pilots operate in the same airspace, face the same fatigue risks, and carry the same responsibility as passenger crews, and our regulations must reflect that. The Safe Skies Act extends the FAA’s proven duty and rest requirements to all-cargo operations, closing a gap that has persisted for too long and strengthening the safety framework that underpins our entire aviation system.”

“Cargo plane pilots are an integral part of our economy, yet they are not held to the same safety standards as commercial flight crews,” said Rep. Garamendi. “The Safe Skies Act changes that by applying the same common-sense rules to combat fatigue and keep our airspace safe as those required for other pilots. I’m honored to join Rep. Carbajal in reintroducing this critical bill to ensure strong workplace protections for cargo pilots and crew.”

“Airline pilots are affected by fatigue the same, regardless of whether we fly passengers or freight. It is time for Congress to pass the Safe Skies Act and ensure one level of safety for all airline operations,” said Capt. Jason Ambosi, ALPA president. “ALPA has long advocated ensuring all-cargo operations, which have an elevated accident rate and frequently require difficult, night-time schedules, are covered by modern, science-based fatigue rules. We thank Representatives Carbajal, Fitzpatrick, Garamendi, and Bacon for their continued leadership for increasing safety for the airline industry and the pilot profession”

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LEADER JEFFRIES STATEMENT ON TRUMP ADMINISTRATION REPEAL OF THE ENDANGERMENT FINDING

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Hakeem Jeffries (8th District of New York)

Know Your Immigration Rights

If you or a loved one encounter immigration enforcement officials, it is essential that you know your rights and have prepared your household for all possible outcomes.

Ask for a warrant: The Fourth Amendment of the Constitution protects you from unreasonable search and seizure. You do not have to open your door until you see a valid warrant to enter your home or search your belongings.

Your right to remain silent: The Fifth Amendment protects your right to remain silent and not incriminate yourself. You are not required to share any personal information such as your place of birth, immigration status or criminal history.

Always consult an attorney: You have a right to speak with an attorney. You do not have to sign anything or hand officials any documents without speaking to an attorney. Try to identify and consult one in advance.

The New York City Office of Civil Justice and the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs (MOIA) support a variety of free immigration legal services through local nonprofit legal organizations. To access these resources, dial 311 and say “Action NYC,” call the MOIA Immigration Legal Support Hotline at 800-354-0365 Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. or visit MOIA’s website.

Learn more here: KNOW YOUR IMMIGRATION RIGHTS  – Congressman Hakeem Jeffries

Pressley Underscores Harm of Racial Bias in Home Appraisals, Urges Reform of Appraisal System to Ensure Equity, Accountability

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07)

“Black families who sought homeownership were held back by red tape, limited to redlined neighborhoods and faced blatant racism from banks.”

“And for those who managed to secure a mortgage and buy a home, the value of their homes was grossly diminished by an appraisal system rife with racial bias, and that same appraisal system is around today.”

WASHINGTON – During a House Financial Services Committee hearing this week, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) laid plain the harmful discriminatory nature of the home appraisal process that has disadvantaged many current and aspiring homeowners—especially homeowners of color, across the country and in Boston. Rep. Pressley pushed for essential reform to modernize the appraisal process, strengthen transparency and accountability, and help families challenge bias valuations.

In November 2025, on National Housing Day, Rep. Pressley introduced the Appraisal Modernization Act, legislation to promote equity and combat systemic bias in the home appraisal process. The Senate companion legislation is being led by Senator Raphael Warnock (D-GA). Bill text is available here.

A transcript of Congresswoman Pressley’s remarks is available below, and the video is available here.

Transcript: Pressley Underscores Harm of Racial Bias in Home Appraisals, Urges Reform of Appraisal System to Ensure Equity, Accountability
Financial Services Committee

February 10, 2026

REP. PRESSLEY: Well, since Black history is American history, I’ll say Happy Black History Month.

And on the 100th anniversary of Black History Month, I refuse to allow our contributions to be relegated to a footnote or to be whitewashed by an Executive Order. 

Dr. Hamilton, I am grateful for your leadership in shaping the national conversation on baby bonds, and I thank you for your partnership and counsel on the drafting of my baby bonds legislation in partnership with Senator Booker. 

Republicans and Trump won’t give you credit, but we know that Trump accounts exist only because of your genius and the work on the ground that you laid as spearheading the issue of baby bonds. 

So I want to give you your flowers officially on the Congressional Record, you have been a pioneer in confronting the racial wealth gap. 

I represent the Massachusetts Seventh congressional district, and a report by the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston found – and this will shock many – but that the median net worth for white households in Boston is $247,500, while for Black households, it is a mere $8. 

That has everything to do with housing. 

Dr. Hamilton, would you agree that homeownership plays an essential role in wealth building? 

DR. DARRICK HAMILTON: Yes. And thank you, Congresswoman, I honestly am very honored and proud to have that accolade that you offered me.

REP. PRESSLEY: Thank you, and we’re grateful for you.

So yes, homeownership is essential to wealth building, and I believe that a majority of the public agrees with and acknowledges that.

In fact, during the 1950s and 60s, one of the foundational bricks that built America’s middle class was home ownership. 

It was the advice given by the government to citizens and passed down from parents to their kids. 

Homeownership symbolized financial opportunity and freedom. 

But we know what was also taking place in the 50s and 60s: Jim Crow. Jim Crow discrimination.

Black families who sought homeownership were held back by red tape, limited to redlined neighborhoods and faced blatant racism from banks. 

And for those who managed to secure a mortgage and buy a home, the value of their homes were grossly diminished by an appraisal system rife with racial bias, and that same appraisal system is around today. 

Just look at the data. Last year, a report estimated that Boston’s Black homeowners lose up to $2.3 billion in wealth because homes owned by Black families are valued about 18% less – they can literally be right next door to each other – than comparable White-owned homes, or roughly $125,000. 

But this isn’t just in my district. It’s happening all across the country. 

I ask unanimous consent to enter into the record a March 2024 article from The Bay State Banner titled, “Boston Black homeowners lose billions to biased property valuations.”

I also asked to enter into the record a Brookings Institution study titled, “How racial bias in appraisals affects the devaluation of homes in majority-Black neighborhoods.” 

And finally, I asked to enter without unanimous consent, a Freddie Mac analysis titled, “Freddie Mac Research Explores Causes for the Appraisal Valuation Gap for Homeowners in Minority Neighborhoods.”

CHAIR HILL: Without objection. 

REP. PRESSLEY: Dr. Hamilton, with my remaining time – for Black families of all income levels, there is no getting around a discriminatory appraisal system. Why does this matter for the affordability crisis and the racial wealth gap?

DR. HAMILTON: And you know, we should recognize, when we cited that most Americans own their home – that’s not true for Black people, and that’s grounded in a history that you describe. It’s not happenstance. 

Indeed, as we have this conversation, one of the problems is, if we look at any analytical issue in an ahistoric way, it’s myopic. 

So if we’re if we’re revisiting the Great Recession, if we’re revisiting inflation in the pandemic, if we’re not telling the complete story, we are inaccurate. 

Inflation was to deal with a pandemic, frankly, a plague that we were faced and we had supply chain issues. It’s almost miraculous that we’re still not in a great recession today.

The critiques of the Dodd-Frank Act that we’re hearing today, we’re losing the context by which it emerged. It’s almost as if we will repeat the same problems that we had in the past. 

Of course, we need smart regulation, but complete deregulation was the root of the speculation that nearly brought down our economy in two scenarios.

REP. PRESSLEY: Thank you, Dr. Hamilton. And on the issue of the appraisal system in particular, I just want to share that I was proud to partner with Senator Warnock to introduce legislation that would modernize the appraisal process, to strengthen transparency and accountability and the consumer right to appeal if they decide.

Thank you.