The Office of Congressman Donald Norcross Releases Statement on Recent Medical Event

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

WASHINGTON, DC — Today, the office of Congressman Donald Norcross released a statement on the Congressman’s recent medical event.

“Congressman Donald Norcross was traveling over the weekend and suffered an emergency medical event likely related to his gallbladder. He was admitted to UNC Rex Hospital in North Carolina on Sunday and is in stable condition, where he is receiving exceptional medical treatment. He is currently in good spirits and wants to thank the doctors, nurses, and support staff at UNC Rex Hospital for all their work on his behalf during his stay. When the Congressman is medically cleared to fly, he will be transferred back home to Cooper University Health Care in the coming days to complete his recovery. “   

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Rep. Ami Bera Holds Press Conference on U.S. Postal Service Inspector General Mail Theft Audit Report

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Ami Bera (D-CA)

Today, U.S. Representative Ami Bera, M.D. (CA-06) held a press conference alongside Rancho Cordova Councilmember Linda Budge, Sacramento City Councilmember Lisa Kaplan and residents in response to the recently released U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General (OIG) audit report on mail theft in Sacramento County. 

“Despite extensive collaborative efforts from my office with USPS and USPIS to address the persistent concerns raised by constituents, the findings of this audit are completely unacceptable,” said Representative Bera. “The audit identified serious systemic issues including missing and unaccounted-for arrow keys, inadequate oversight and a troubling lack of mandatory inspections. The Postal Service must immediately implement the Inspector General’s recommendations to restore public trust and ensure that Sacramento County residents have the secure and reliable mail services they deserve.”

The audit, requested by Rep. Bera following months of community concerns, uncovered alarming deficiencies in how local postal facilities track, secure and inspect mailboxes — including widespread mismanagement of arrow keys and a lack of basic oversight procedures.

“Mail theft has become the scourge of many communities—not just in our area, but all across this country—and it’s not a new issue, ” said Michael Mashburn, Natomas Park Safety Committee Chairman. “We have been tracking data since 2020, and every year it doubles. This audit is a move in the right direction, and I want to thank Congressman Bera for it because it’s giving us the opportunity to try and find a way to fix this issue.”   

“Together as a community we must work together to hold the USPS accountable for their failed leadership, lack of oversight procedure and mismanagement of master keys. We must hold them accountable along with the criminals responsible who steal our mail, ” said Councilmember Kaplan. “ I am proud to stand with Congressman Bera and my community as we demand action.”

“The group mailboxes have provided over two decades of opportunity for mail and identity theft, ” said Councilmember Budge. “Rancho Cordova is extremely appreciative of Congressman Bera’s efforts to bring some attention to this problem, and we are happy to work with him to help create a solution.”

The OIG audit focused on three postal facilities in Sacramento County:

  • Sacramento Main Post Office (Royal Oaks Dr)

  • Fort Sutter Station (Alhambra Blvd)

  • Rancho Cordova Post Office (Progress Ct)

Key Findings Include:

  • “The Sacramento Main Post Office, Fort Sutter Station, and Rancho Cordova Main Post Office did not properly track their arrow key inventories.”

  • “There is no tracking mechanism in place that distinguishes whether a CBU is postal-owned or privately owned.” 

  • “Local management at the Sacramento Main Post Office, Fort Sutter Station, and Rancho Cordova Main Post Office did not perform the annual safety inspections for the condition of blue collection boxes, CBUs, and green relay boxes.”

The report outlines why these failures occurred, their impact on the community, and specific steps for corrective action. The OIG has also issued implementation deadlines and will require proof of compliance.

Congressman Bera’s office will closely monitor the Postal Service’s progress in addressing these critical issues and will continue advocating on behalf of Sacramento County residents to ensure their mail is delivered securely and on time. 

You can find the full audit report here

REPS LIEU, NORTON, BEYER AND ESPAILLAT REINTRODUCE BILL TO PROTECT PRIVACY OF U.S. CITIZENS CROSSING THE BORDER

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Ted Lieu (33 District of California)

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Ted W. Lieu (D-Los Angeles County), Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), Congressman Donald Beyer (D-VA) and Congressman Adriano Espaillat (D-NY) reintroduced the Protecting Data at the Border Act, which would require law enforcement to obtain a warrant before searching an American’s laptop and phone at a port of entry. The reintroduction comes on the heels of several high-profile stories of Customs and BorderPatrol agents searching travelers’ phones and electronics, denying them entry in some cases. These instances highlight the fact that even Americans can be subjected to warrantless searches at ports of entry. The bill was first introduced in the 116thCongress and has been reintroduced every Congress since.

No American should have to give up their right to privacy just because they’re traveling,” said Rep. Lieu. “Americans have a constitutional right to privacy enshrined by the Fourth Amendment. Searching someone’s phone gives an agent access to everything from pictures to texts to bank accounts to location data to medical information.  The Founders could never imagine the information that a cellphone holds, but they had enough sense to safeguard us from unreasonable and invasive searches. Our bill serves to make clear that the government does not possess the right to indiscriminately search phones and laptops of Americans without due process and adequate cause.” 

“Potential civil liberties violations at ports of entry have long been a concern, but with a lawless, authoritarian President allowing major intrusions into Americans’ privacy and personal data, there is heightened urgency for Congress to address this issue”” said Rep. Beyer. “The Protect Data at the Border Act would protect Americans’ constitutional rights and prevent unnecessary, invasive searches. Everyone should support this badly needed reform.” 

“The Fourth Amendment protects Americans against unreasonable searches but unfortunately searches at the border fall under an exception that allows law enforcement to search electronic devices, even those of American citizens, without a warrant,” Rep. Norton said. “The Supreme Court has held that police generally need a warrant to search cell phones. Americans should enjoy this protection against warrantless search by American law enforcement at the border as well. My constituents have opened cases about this issue with my office, and as a former assistant legal director for the ACLU, I know the importance of strong defenses for our civil liberties, including protections against unreasonable searches.” 

“The Protecting Data at the Border Act upholds the fundamental rights of Americans and will restrict the Trump administration’s unchecked power to rifle through the personal data of millions of Americans without due process,” said Rep. Espaillat. “We must uphold the Fourth Amendment and protect vulnerable communities against unreasonable searches and seizures. We will not tolerate the Trump administration’s dangerous precedent to compromise Americans’ privacy and stand united to ensure that no citizen should ever have to forfeit their constitutional rights simply because they are crossing a border.” 

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Bacon, Huffman, and Van Hollen Reintroduce Bicameral Legislation to Fully Fund Special Education

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

Today, U.S. Representatives Don Bacon (NE-02) and Jared Huffman (CA-02) and U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) reintroduced the bicameral IDEA Full Funding Act to ensure all children with disabilities can access a free, high-quality public education.In 1975, Congress passed the Individuals with Disabilities Act (IDEA) to provide these essential educational opportunities, and this legislation ensures that Congress fulfills its commitment.

Under IDEA, the federal government committed to pay 40 percent of the average per pupil expenditure for special education. However, that pledge has never been met, and current funding is below 13 percent. The IDEA Full Funding Act would require regular, mandatory increases in IDEA spending to finally meet our obligation to America’s children and schools. It is cosponsored by more than 30 Senators and over 60 House members. Text of the IDEA Full Funding Act can be viewed here.

“This bipartisan legislation is fulfilling a long overdue promise made by the federal government to support students with disabilities by funding 40% of the cost of special education,” said Rep. Don Bacon. “For far too long that commitment has gone unfulfilled, and now we are taking action to deliver on that promise. I’m honored to co-lead the reintroduction of the IDEA Full Funding Act.”

“While we’ve made substantial progress to fund special education services in recent years, we still have important work left to do to live up to the original commitment Congress made,” said Rep. Jared Huffman. “All children – no matter their zip code, race, disability, or any other factor – should be able to access a full, exceptional education, and this legislation will help school districts provide thenecessary resources to make this vision a reality. The current chronic underfunding leaves an unfair burden on students, teachers, schools, and families.Our bill holds up the federal government’s end of the bargain to fully fund special education services on apermanent basis and set all students up for long-term success.”

“Fifty years ago, Congress passed the IDEA Act, and with it, made a promise to children with disabilities and their families – but we have fallen short of that promise every year since. While Donald Trump and Elon Musk are illegally gutting public education in America, we are fighting to strengthen it. Our bill will ensure that Congress finally meets its commitment to fully fund IDEA, putting us closer to delivering equal access to high-quality education for every student in this country,” said Senator Van Hollen.

Rep. Huffman requested $16.3 million for IDEA Part B Grants to States in FY2024, taking a key step toward securing full federal funding. He will continue to advocate for more federal funding in the upcoming FY2025 appropriations cycle, ensuring that every child can access the resources they need to succeed.

This bill is co-led in the House by Representatives Don Bacon (NE-02), Glenn “GT” Thompson (PA-15), Joe Neguse (CO-02), Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), Angie Craig (MN-02), Pete Stauber (MN-08), Janelle Bynum (OR-05), Eric Swalwell (CA-14), and Mike Bost (IL-12). 

“As the Trump Administration slashes support for students with disabilities by dismantling the Department of Education, I am proud to join my colleagues in advancing legislation that mandates increased IDEA funding. Together with parents, teachers, and education advocates, we will hold the President accountable for his reckless attacks on accessible education and make sure every kid has the chance to learn, grow, and–ultimately–succeed,” said House Assistant Minority Leader Joe Neguse.

“For too long, the federal government has fallen short on its commitment to share the cost of education with states for individuals with special needs, placing an unfair burden on schools, teachers, and families,” said Rep. Glenn “GT” Thompson. “The IDEA Full Funding Act reaffirms our promise and makes IDEAwhole over the next 10 years. This is a positive step toward ensuring every student with disabilities receives the support and resources they need to thrive.

“As the mother of a child who benefited from special education, I know firsthand just how lifechanging these programs can be for Minnesota students and their families,” said Rep. Angie Craig. “I’m proud to be co-leading this bipartisan legislation to fully fund special education programs and ensure our special educators and paraprofessionals have the resources they need to keep up this critical work.”

“Every child, regardless of ability, deserves access to a high-quality education and a fair opportunity to succeed,” said Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick. “For too long, the federal government has fallen short of its commitment to fully fund the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), leaving schools and families to shoulder the burden. We’re working to change that through the bipartisan, bicameral IDEA Full Funding Act—legislation that will ensure students in Bucks and Montgomery counties, and across the nation, have access to the full range of resources, support, and high-quality education they need to reach their fullest potential.”

“Parents of kids with special needs are fresh off of fighting for their kids during COVID, and we won’t stop. We know that every kid has needs – and gifts. No one is disposable and we’re tired of having to fight for the crumbs. Fully fund IDEA. Now,” said Rep. Janelle Bynum.

“For many parents, raising a child with a disability is a full-time job. Every child, regardless of their abilities or disabilities, deserves the opportunity to develop skills that will help them lead fulfilling lives. That’s why I’m a proud co-lead of the IDEA Full Funding Act,” said Rep. Eric Swalwell. “Parents have to fight too damn hard to get their child the resources they need, and Congress has fallen short of our promise to support all students as they learn essential skills for adulthood. This bill would require regular mandatory increases in spending to match the needs of America’s classrooms. Fully funding IDEA is a big step in bringing down barriers and stepping up our students for success.”

“For too long, the federal government has fallen short of its funding commitment to students with special needs, forcing schools to subsidize rising special education costs with general education funds,” said Rep. Pete Stauber. “This leaves every student at a disadvantage. As the parent of a child with special needs, I am proud to continue the fight to ensure Congress fulfills its promise to our special needs students and their parents, so our educators can strengthen special education services while meeting the needs of every American student.”

This legislation is supported by a broad and diverse group of over 70 national and localorganizations, including by the School Superintendents Association (AASA), theAssociation of School Business Officials International (ASBO), and the Council for Exceptional Children.

“I see firsthand the critical role special education plays in shaping the future of our students. With the growing needs of students with disabilities, it is more important than ever that we fully fund IDEA. Every child, regardless of ability, deserves access to the education and support they need to thrive. I urge Congress to please find it in their hearts to vote this critical legislation through and support all our beautiful children across this great nation,” said Jaime Green, Superintendent of Trinity Alps Unified School District (TAUSD).

“AASA is proud to support the IDEA Full Funding Act being introduced today. We strongly support this legislation as a key priority in strengthening our nation’s schools and supporting them in their work to ensure all students—regardless of ability—have an opportunity to access a high-quality education. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) represents a critical commitment to help level the playing field for historically disadvantaged populations, students with disabilities. We are proud to endorse the IDEA Full Funding Act, being introduced in both the House and Senate this week, for its work to hold Congress accountable and create a clear path and plan of action. We thank Senator Van Hollen and Representatives Thompson and Huffman for their leadership on this important issue,” said AASA Executive Director Dr. David R. Schuler.

“School districts everywhere are facing significant financial strain as they strive to educate and serve all students, including those with disabilities. Fully funding IDEA would help schools keep up with rising costs to effectively assess and respond to increasing needs, attract and retain specialized instructional support personnel, and provide assistive equipment and technology to help students learn and succeed,” said Elleka Yost, ASBO Director of Advocacy & Research.

“As the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) turns 50 years old this year, now is the perfect time for Congress to make good on its pledge to fully fund IDEA,” said Chad Rummel, executive director of the Council for Exceptional Children. “We thank Sen. Van Hollen, Reps. Huffman and Thompson, and all the bill cosponsors for introducing this bill to provide the resources needed to support the infants, toddlers, children and youth served under IDEA,” said Kuna Tavalin, Senior Advisor at the Council for Exceptional Children.

Additional cosponsors in the House include Representatives Don Bacon (NE-02), Becca Balint (VT-AL), Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Mike Bost (IL-12), Julia Brownley (CA-26), Nikki Budzinski (IL-13), Janelle Bynum (OR-05), Salud Carbajal (CA-24), André Carson (IN-07), Sean Casten (IL-06), Kathy Castor (FL-14), Judy Chu (CA-28), Emanuel Cleaver (MO-05), Gerald E. Connolly (VA-11), Jim Costa (CA-21), Angie Craig (MN-02), Jason Crow (CO-06), Madeleine Dean (PA-04), Diana DeGette (CO-01), Suzan DelBene (WA-01), Mark DeSaulnier (CA-10), Debbie Dingell (MI-06), Veronica Escobar (TX-16), Dwight Evans (PA-03), Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), Lois Frankel (FL-22), Maxwell Frost (FL-10), Sylvia R. Garcia (TX-29), Jimmy Gomez (CA-34), Jim Himes (CT-04), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Hank Johnson Jr. (GA-04), Ro Khanna (CA-17), John Mannion (NY-22),Lucy McBath (GA-06), Sarah McBride (DL-AL), Lisa McClain (MI-09), Morgan McGarvey (KY-03), LaMonica McIver (NJ-10), Joseph Morelle (NY-25), Seth Moulton (MA-06), Joe Neguse (CO-02), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-00), Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), Scott Peters (CA-50), Brittany Pettersen (CO-07), Chellie Pingree (ME-01),Mark Pocan (WI-02), Delia Ramirez (IL-03), Jamie Raskin (MD-08),Josh Riley (NY-19),AndreaSalinas (OR-06), Linda Sánchez (CA-38), Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05), Hillary Scholten (MI-03), Brad Sherman (CA-32), Lateefah Simon (CA-12), Melanie Stansbury (NM-01), PeteStauber (MN-08), Marilyn Strickland(WA-10), Eric Swalwell, (CA-14),Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Bennie G. Thompson (MS-02), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Paul D. Tonko (NY-20), Lori Trahan (MA-03), Juan Vargas (CA-52), Nikema Williams (GA-05), and Frederica S. Wilson (FL-24).

The legislation is cosponsored in the Senate by Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-MD), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Chris Coons (D-DE), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Mark Warner (D-VA), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Ron Wyden (D-OR).

The bill is also supported by: The School Superintendents Association (AASA), AFT, AFL-CI”, American Academy of Pediatrics, American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education (AACTE), American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), American Occupational Therapy Association, American PsychologicalAssociation, Assistive Technology Industry Association, Association of Educational Service Agencies, Association of Latino Administrators and Superintendents, Association of Latino Superintendents and Administrators, Association of People Supporting Employment First (APSE), Association of School Business Officials International (ASBO), Autism Society of America, Autism Speaks, Autistic Self Advocacy Network, CAST, Center for Learner Equity, Coalition for Adequate Funding for Special Education, Coalition for Community Schools, Consortium of State School Boards Associations (COSSBA), Council for Exceptional Children, Council for Learning Disabilities, Council of Administrators of Special Education, Council of Parent Attorneys and Advocates, EDGE Consulting Partners, EdTrust, Education Reform Now, First Focus Campaign for Children, Higher Education Consortium for Special Education, Institute for Educational Leadership, Learning Disabilities Association of America, NAESPA (NationalAssociation of ESEA State Program Administrators), National Association for Music Education, National Association for Pupil Transportation, NationalAssociation of Councils on Developmental Disabilities, NationalAssociation of Federally Impacted Schools (NAFIS), National Association of Private Special Education Centers, NationalAssociation of School Psychologists, NationalAssociation of Secondary School Principals (NASSP), National Center for Learning Disabilities, National Consortium for Physical Education for Individuals with Disabilities (NCPEID), National Disability Rights Network (NDRN), National Down Syndrome Congress, National Down Syndrome Society, National Education Association, National PTA, National Rural Education Association (NREA), NBJC, Teach For America, TheAdvocacy Institute, TheArc of the United States, TNTP.

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ICYMI: Congresswoman Frederica Wilson’s Tele-town Hall Featuring Multiple National Experts Attracts 60,000 Listeners

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Frederica S Wilson (24th District of Florida)

Miami, Fla.— On Wednesday, March 26, Congresswoman Frederica S. Wilson (FL-24) held a tele-town hall with national experts to discuss the White House’s executive orders, recent Republican actions, and the resulting concerns across the nation. Don Lemon, host of “The Don Lemon Show,” served as moderator. Panelists included  Arne Duncan, Former Secretary of Education; Marc Elias, Founder of Democracy Docket and Firm Chair of Elias Law Group; Chiquita Brooks-LaSure, Former Administrator of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services; Nancy Altman, President of Social Security Works; and Sui Chung, Executive Director of Americans for Immigrant Justice.

Congresswoman Frederica Wilson said, “Republicans have gone after Medicaid, Medicare, Social Security, public education, our immigrant community, and so much more. People are afraid and want answers. We must meet this moment. Democrats are fighting back, and unity is our strength right now. We need folks to let Republicans know how furious they are. Only by keeping the pressure high, that’s how we will protect our democracy.”

Over 60,000 people tuned in to the event via their phones, the Congresswoman’s Facebook page, YouTube, and Website.

Don Lemon, host of The Don Lemon Show, said “I believe that we are at a constitutional crisis. I believe we are rapidly heading towards dictatorship, autocracy, and we don’t want to go there.”

Former Secretary of Education Arne Duncan, said, “This is not an R versus D issue. This is not left versus right. This is unprecedented in our nation’s history. Dismantling the Department of Education, attacking public education, starting to attack institutions of higher educations, our colleges and universities, is an entirely new phenomenon we have never seen.”

A listener asked Secretary Duncan what would happen to the student loan system and Secretary Duncan responded, “When I led the Department of Education, my biggest concern every night going home was the operational risk around grants and loans—literally trillions of dollars for millions of students. And what they have done is they have gutted that department—the Department of Federal Student Aid—and, with them moving that over to SBA, it has no knowledge or expertise on this. The chance for a catastrophic operational failure as we go back to college in the fall is extraordinarily high.”

Marc Elias, founder of Democracy Docket and Firm Chair of Elias Law Group, said,

“Congress has the right to pass laws. Donald Trump does not have the right and ability to change them. And we will litigate against him every step of the way.”

The Elias Law Group is litigating multiple cases against President Trump and Republicans.

Elias added, “Most recently, he has started targeting law firms: Basically, law firms and individual lawyers who have stood up to him. He has named me in several of his executive orders and in memoranda hoping to intimidate me and others from continuing to litigate him against him in court. The reason he’s doing that is because he is losing those court cases.” 

Former Administrator for the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Chiquita Brooks-LaSure,  said,  “We now have over 100 million people covered by Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act tax credits. And what are the first couple of things this new administration has talked about doing? Cutting healthcare programs by $880 billion dollars to pay for a tax cut.” “Medicaid supports so many people: children who have high needs; it supports so many middle-class families who can’t afford long-term care or care  for their elderly parents or relatives. Medicaid is  the one program providing that coverage in this country. Taking away $880 billion will hurt families, the economy, workers, and hospitals.”

She added, “Florida specifically is extremely dependent on Medicaid. Republican governors from states across the country have signaled that they too, are  concerned about cutting the Medicaid program. There is no way to come up with that level of cuts without going after healthcare.”

Nancy Altman, President of Social Security Works  said, “It is not exaggeration to say that in the last few weeks, the Social Security Administration has lost nearly a thousand years of institutional knowledge.”

One listener asked whether they will be able to receive their Social Security benefits in two years. Ms. Altman’s response: “Before January 20, I would have said 100 percent. Absolutely. I guarantee it. It’s never missed a payment in those 90 years. The problem now is that they’ve gutted the agency. Although there’s a certain amount of automation to those benefits if you’re already receiving them, it is a legacy system and it has to be maintained. Just in the last week or so, the system’s crashed several times and that’s what the real danger is.”

She urged the public to take actions, noting that close to 73 million Americans rely on Social Security. “Everyone needs to stay alert, raise their voices, and demand accountability,” she said. “Tell your members of Congress to do their jobs and protect Social Security. Even MAGA voters don’t want to see these benefits cuts.”

“We should all be proud of our immigrant history, whether you’re U.S.-born or not,” Sui Chung, Executive Director of Americans for Immigrant Justice, said. “The concept of prosecutorial discretion has really been undone by the current administration. If  you are encountered by ICE, even if you have no criminal record, you will be an enforcement priority if you cannot demonstrate that you have current status at this time.”

Multiple immigration organizations, including Americans for Immigrant Justice have formed a coalition called RAISE, a rapid response hotline for immigrants at risk of detention or deportation.

If any communities are facing an ICE raid and need assistance, please call RAISE’s hotline at 1-888-600-5762 or visit their website for immigration resources at www.Raise.is.

The event opened with  remarks from Congresswoman Wilson, followed by remarks from Don Lemon and the  experts panel, each of whom discussed different aspects of the administration’s executive actions and Congressional Republicans’ actions. The remainder of the event was dedicated to audience questions for Congresswoman Wilson and the panelists.

Congresswoman Frederica Wilson also urged listeners to call Republican members of Congress, Republican Senators, and the White House.

For the U.S. House of Representatives and U.S. Senate Switchboard, call (202) 224-3121.

For the White House Comment Line, call 202-456-1111.

Follow the tele-town hall special guest on social media at @DonLemonOfficial, @ArneDuncan, @AmericansForImmigrantJustice, @MarcEElias, @DemocracyDocket, @SocialSecurityWorks, @Century_Foundation, and @TCFdotorg.

“The Don Lemon Show” is also available live Monday through Friday at 10 AM and 5 PM EST on YouTube and other podcast streaming services @TheDonLemonShow.

For the full video link to the tele-town hall, click here.

Castor, Buchanan, Soto and Bilirakis Aim to Protect Florida’s Coasts from Offshore Drilling

Source: United States House of Representatives – Reprepsentative Kathy Castor (FL14)

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Reps. Kathy Castor (FL-14), Vern Buchanan (FL-16), Darren Soto (FL-9) and Gus Bilirakis (FL-12) introduced critical bipartisan legislation, the Florida Coastal Protection Act, to permanently prohibit oil and natural gas exploration, development, and production off Florida’s coast.  

“Florida is a special but fragile place, and our way of life depends on clean water. Dangerous offshore drilling can devastate both our environment and our economy, posing huge risks to everything that makes Florida special. Our Florida coasts are beloved by people across the globe. Tourism and fishing are the lifeblood of our coastal economy in the Sunshine State, so we must ensure our water, beaches, and wildlife in the Eastern Gulf are sustained, said Rep. Castor. “Together we can permanently protect these waters, our planet, our pocketbooks and our people from costly oil disasters and pollution.”

“While I support responsible investments in American energy, we must also recognize the unique importance of protecting Florida’s coastline,” said Rep. Buchanan. “The Deepwater Horizon disaster in 2010 showed just how devastating an offshore spill can be to our economy, environment and way of life. As co-chair of the bipartisan Florida congressional delegation, I remain committed to working with colleagues on both sides of the aisle to safeguard our state’s beautiful beaches and coastal waters.”

“Florida’s coastline is more than a beautiful backdrop—it’s a vital part of who we are. Our beaches and marine ecosystems support hundreds of thousands of jobs, drive tourism, sustain our fishing industries, and provide a home to some of the most unique and fragile wildlife in the world,” said Rep. Darren Soto. “Offshore drilling puts all of that at risk. One spill could devastate our economy and irreparably damage ecosystems that took generations to build. This bipartisan legislation reflects a shared commitment to safeguarding our waters—not just for today, but for every generation that comes after us. Floridians deserve clean beaches, thriving marine life, and a resilient coastal economy—and that starts with keeping oil rigs off our shores for good.”

“We’ve seen the long-lasting harm that can come from oil spills including: damage to the environment, disruption to marine life, and the paralysis of local economies that depend heavily on fishing, tourism, and recreation,” said Rep. Bilirakis. “Protecting Florida’s pristine coastline from future oil spills is crucial for preserving its unique ecosystems.  Ensuring the health of the coastline will safeguard not only the environment but also the livelihoods of communities that rely on its natural beauty and resources.”

Endorsing organizations of the Florida Coastal Protection Act include Oceana, Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), Defenders of Wildlife, Earthjustice, League of Conservation Voters, Environment America, Surfrider Foundation, Turtle Island Restoration Network, Nassau Hiking & Outdoor Club, Lee (MA) Greener Gateway Committee, South Shore Audubon Society (Freeport, NY), Sierra Club, and The CLEO Institute.

Read the full text of the bill.

“Oceana applauds Rep. Castor and Rep. Buchanan for advancing the bipartisan tradition of protecting Florida’s coasts,” said Oceana Campaign Director Joseph Gordon. “Oil spills can be economically devastating for communities that rely on clean oceans and healthy wildlife. This visionary bill will forever secure Florida’s treasured coastlines from the threat of offshore oil drilling, protecting an essential way of life for millions of people who call the Sunshine State home – and millions more who visit its shores every year.”

“This important legislation will protect Florida’s environment, economy, climate, and way of life from the harmful effects of offshore oil and gas development,” said Katie Bauman, Florida Policy Manager of the Surfrider Foundation. “The Surfrider Foundation urges members of Congress to support the Florida Coastal Protection Act and other bills to permanently prohibit new offshore drilling in U.S. waters.”

Yoca Arditi-Rocha, Executive Director of The CLEO Institute added, “As a state where our clean beaches are a central driver of our tourism economy, The Florida Coastal Protection Act is essential to protecting the people and places we love. We can avoid using dirty and dangerous fuels by transitioning to clean electric vehicles and investing in public transportation. This is how we guarantee clean water and air for all.

“Florida’s beaches, bottlenose dolphins and manatees are too important to risk for more oil, but we’ve seen repeatedly that when we drill, we spill,” said Lisa Frank, Executive Director of Environment America. The Florida Coastal Protection Act would conserve our waters and wildlife for generations to come by keeping offshore drilling out of Florida’s waters. Congress should pass this bill immediately and send it to President Trump’s desk.”

“The barrier islands, white sandy beaches and coastal marshes surrounding Florida’s shoreline provide necessary habitat for iconic reef fish, extensive shorebird populations, sea turtles and marine mammals like the Florida manatee,” said Ben Prater, Southeast Program Director for Defenders of Wildlife. “This legislation will protect Florida’s coasts from the known, concrete risks of offshore drilling while moving to ensure a safer future for the endangered and imperiled coastal wildlife that call the state home.”

“Permanently protecting Florida’s pristine Gulf coast from the threats of offshore drilling has had resounding support for years, regardless of political party,” said Earthjustice senior legislative representative Laura M. Esquivel. “From their robust tourism sector to their vital sustainable fishing industry, Floridians cherish the Gulf and want it free of toxic oil and gas. This bipartisan bill is proof that safeguarding a brighter future for Florida’s Gulf coast is within reach, and that Representatives Castor, Soto, Buchanan, and Bilirakis can make it happen.”

“For decades, Floridians—Democrats and Republicans alike—have stood united against offshore drilling, knowing it threatens the state’s tourism-driven economy, coastal communities, and way of life. The Florida Coastal Protection Act reflects this long-standing bipartisan opposition by ensuring that our beaches, fisheries, and marine ecosystems are not put at risk for the sake of short-term fossil fuel profits. Healthy Gulf supports efforts to secure permanent protections for Florida’s waters, and we urge Congress to uphold the will of the people by passing this vital legislation,” said Martha Collins, Executive Director for Healthy Gulf.

“Protecting Florida’s waters puts coastal communities and wildlife above polluters and brings us closer to a world where our waters are free from oil spills, endangered whale populations are free from seismic blasting, and local economies can thrive,” said Taryn Kiekow Heimer, Director of Ocean Energy at the Natural Resources Defense Council. “Now more than ever, we need leadership from Congress to protect our oceans from an industry that only cares about its bottom line – and a Trump administration willing to do anything to give those oil billionaires what they want.”

“Our coasts are a source of life, livelihood, and recreation for coastal communities and the millions of visitors they see every year,” said Athan Manuel, Director of Sierra Club’s Lands Protection Program. “They also support untold diverse wildlife and ecosystems that are put at risk by exploitation from the oil and gas industry. This bill provides much-needed critical protections for the health of our coastal communities and to ensure that future generations will get to enjoy the wonders of our oceans and beaches.”

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Griffith Announces Start of 2025 Congressional Art Competition in Ninth District

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA)

Each year, the U.S. House of Representatives sponsors the Congressional Art Competition for high school students. This competition is an exciting way for a student from our region to represent the Ninth Congressional District in Washington. The Artistic Discovery Contest is open to all high school students in the Ninth District.

The chosen theme for 2025 is “Commemorating Virginia’s Contribution to the American Revolution.” Interested students must submit a photograph of their original artwork to either my Christiansburg or Abingdon office by 5:00 pm on Monday, April 28 for consideration. Each entry must be accompanied by a completed student information release form to qualify. The 2025 student information release form can be found at the bottom of this page.

The overall winner of our district’s competition will be displayed for one year in the U.S. Capitol and will be invited to Washington for a reception. The second and third place selections will be displayed in my Christiansburg and Abingdon offices.

Art works entered in the contest may be up to 26 inches by 26 inches (including the frame) and may be up to 4 inches in depth. Artwork must be two-dimensional and cannot weigh more than 15 pounds. The work may be:

  • Paintings: oil, acrylics, watercolor, etc.
  • Drawings: colored pencil, pencil, ink, marker, pastels, charcoal (It is recommended that charcoal and pastel drawings be fixed)
  • Collages: must be two dimensional
  • Prints: lithographs, silkscreen, block prints
  • Mixed Media: use of more than two mediums such as pencil, ink, watercolor, etc.
  • Computer-generated art
  • Photographs

All entries must be an original in concept, design and execution.

The Congressional Art Competition began in 1982 to provide an opportunity for members of Congress to encourage and recognize the artistic talents of their young constituents.  Since then, over 650,000 high school students have been involved with the nationwide competition.

Rishi Nair of Blacksburg High School won the 2024 Congressional Art Competition in Virginia’s Ninth Congressional District. His artwork is entitled ‘Mabry Mill.’

If you would like more information on the annual Congressional Art Competition, please contact my Abingdon office at (276) 525-1405 or visit the Congressional Art Competition website.

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Reps. Carbajal, Brownley, Panetta Demand the Trump Administration Halt its Illegal Plans to Close Facilities Vital to the Central Coast

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

Reps. Carbajal, Brownley, Panetta Demand the Trump Administration Halt its Illegal Plans to Close Facilities Vital to the Central Coast

Washington, April 7, 2025

Representatives Salud Carbajal (D-CA-24), Julia Brownley (D-CA-26), and Jimmy Panetta (D-CA-19) sent a letter to Acting Administrator Stephen Ehikian of the General Services Administration over the planned illegal closures of crucial facilities across the Central Coast. The planned closures will impact U.S. Department of Interior (DOI), National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), and United States Forest Service (USFS) facilities in Ventura, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo counties.

“These are critical agencies that help support our local economies’ vitality and the American way of life,” wrote the lawmakers. “Efforts to justify these closures as a measure to help better serve the American people is, at best, disingenuous.”

The full text of the letter is available here and below.

Dear Acting Administrator Ehikian:

As Representatives of the Central Coast, we write to demand that you halt planned facility closures at the U.S. Department of Interior (DOI), the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the United States Forest Service (USFS) that would impact our constituents in Ventura, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo counties. These are critical agencies that help support our local economies’ vitality and the American people. These indiscriminate closures, done in an arbitrary and capricious manner, are antithetical to our Constitution and values as Americans.

Trying to shutter the physical locations for these vital agencies is reflective of the illegal actions undertaken by DOGE to undermine the effectiveness of our government rather than working to improve it to better serve our constituents and the American people.

DOI was created by an act of Congress in 1849 and is critical in managing our nation’s cultural heritage— including our public lands, which have been a boon to our local recreational economies. In fact, California is home to the nation’s largest active outdoor industry economy, contributing $73.8 billion in economic spending annually. This is not by coincidence. California is also home to nine national parks—more than any other state. The Central Coast of California alone is home to the Channel Islands National Park and Pinnacles National Park. The positive contribution to our economies is reflected by the fact that in 2023, 36.2 million visitors to California’s national parks spent $3.2 billion, supporting 39,678 jobs.

Likewise, NOAA is essential to America’s innovation and economic vitality. Under the Department of Commerce, NOAA is tasked with the critical mission to provide daily weather forecasts, severe storm warnings, and support marine commerce. NOAA’s mission is carried out by some of our nation’s top scientists. The products and cutting-edge research generated by NOAA helps support more than one-third of America’s gross domestic product. Everyday Americans rely on NOAA’s science for basic day-to-day needs like determining the weather. This information is critical for commercial and public safety needs. It is NOAA’s data that helps provide the public with free and lifesaving alerts when Americans are facing natural disasters like hurricanes and wildfires.

Furthermore, with more than $59 billion in agricultural sales, California leads the nation as the top producer of agricultural products in the United States. Throughout the world, California was the world’s largest agriculture producer in 2022. Closing USDA offices only serves to harm American families and our farmers who rely on USDA to ensure food safety, manage our natural resources, and support our food supply chains and economic well-being.

Finally, the U.S. Forest Service manages 193 million acres of public lands and provides potentially life-saving expertise in fire management. Our constituents are no strangers to wildfires. Fires in the Western United States have only become larger, more destructive and deadly. We cannot pretend that this is not a reality that many Americans are experiencing.

Efforts to justify these closures as a measure to help better serve the American people is, at best, disingenuous. As outlined above, these agencies are critical to our nations and region’s wellbeing and help maintain our economic vitality to support our way of life. Again, we demand that you cease these office closures. Further we ask that you let us know under what authority are you acting to close these offices without, at the very least, consultation with Congress—a co-equal branch of government.

Congressman Valadao Reintroduces Legislation to Improve the Central Valley’s Drinking Water

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman David G Valadao (CA-21)

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman David Valadao (CA-22) joined Rep. Norma Torres (CA-35) to reintroduce the Nitrate and Arsenic in Drinking Water Act. This bipartisan bill amends the Safe Drinking Water Act to provide resources for nitrate and arsenic reduction, with priority given to assisting underserved communities.

“Access to clean drinking water is essential for the health and well-being of every American—especially in rural and underserved communities like the Central Valley,” said Congressman Valadao. “This bipartisan bill gives rural communities that rely on groundwater the resources they need to reduce harmful contaminants and ensure our water supply is safe. I’m proud to join Rep. Torres to help our small towns throughout the Valley fix this ongoing issue.”

“This is a public health emergency in the Inland Empire and across the country. The contamination of our water supply with nitrate and arsenic is a direct threat to the health and safety of my constituents,” said Rep. Torres. “I’m committed to securing the resources needed to address this crisis, especially for the most vulnerable—infants, pregnant women, and individuals with enzyme deficiencies. The Inland Empire, particularly former agricultural areas, faces some of the worst contamination levels in the state, and we cannot wait any longer to ensure we make clean drinking water accessible for everyone.”

Background:

Larger towns and cities tend to depend on surface water for drinking, whereas smaller, often rural, communities depend on groundwater. Historically, agricultural heavy areas have led to increased nitrate in drinking and groundwater, including many communities throughout the Central Valley. The Removing Nitrate and Arsenic in Drinking Water Act aims to make additional federal resources available for small, rural communities to reach compliance with the maximum contaminant level of nitrate or arsenic under the Safe Drinking Water Act.

The Nitrate and Arsenic in Drinking Water Act would:

  • Amend the Safe Drinking Water Act to provide grants for nitrate and arsenic reduction.
  • Authorize $15 million for FY26 and every fiscal year after.
  • Direct the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to conduct a review on programs under the Safe Drinking Water Act, taking into consideration the diverse needs of underserved populations.

Current supporting organizations include: Three Valleys Municipal Water District, Coachella Valley Water District, West Valley Water District, Cucamonga Valley Water District, and Elsinore Valley.

Read the full bill here.

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Congressman Valadao Reintroduces Legislation to Help Curb Wildfire Risk

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman David G Valadao (CA-21)

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman David Valadao (CA-22) joined Rep. Salud Carbajal (CA-24) to re-introduce the Fire Safe Electrical Corridors Act. This bipartisan legislation would allow the U.S. Forest Service to approve the removal of hazardous trees near power lines on federal forest lands without requiring a timber sale, easing a serious threat that has in the past been a major cause of destructive wildfires.

“Far too often bureaucratic red tape gets in the way of proper forest management, contributing to the destructive wildfires we see throughout our state,” said Congressman Valadao. “When dead trees aren’t cleared, wildfires burn more intensely, causing widespread devastation and directly impacting air quality across the Central Valley. This bill is a common sense, bipartisan step towards reducing wildfire risk, and I’m proud to join Congressman Carbajal in support.”

“As California continues to recover from catastrophic wildfires that ravaged the region earlier this year, we are reminded of the importance of responsible forest management to reduce future wildfire risk,” said Rep. Carbajal. “Our bipartisan bill will expedite the removal of hazardous trees near power lines and is a common sense solution to protect our communities.”

Background:

Currently, the Forest Service requires utility companies to keep trees and branches away from power lines on federal land. But fallen or dead trees cannot be cleared currently without a timber sale, creating an administrative step that can slow the clearing of hazardous fuel and potential triggers for wildfire on federal land.

This bill passed out of the House Committee on Natural Resources and was included in the House version of the Farm Bill in the 118th Congress. It was added to the Fix Our Forests Act in the 119th Congress.

The Fire Safe Electrical Corridors Act would:

  • Allow the U.S. Forest Service to provide standing permission for electrical utilities to cut and remove hazardous trees near power lines on federal land without requiring a timber sale.
  • Require any utility that sells marketable forest products from hazardous trees removed near power lines to return any proceeds to the Forest Service.

Read the full bill here.

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