MIL USHOR-2b Engine

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

WASHINGTON – Congresswoman Dina Titus (NV-01) and Congressman Jefferson Van Drew (NJ-02) reintroduced their Disability Access to Transportation Act (DATA). This bipartisan legislation establishes a one-stop pilot program to help paratransit riders avoid excessive wait times between multiple trips, streamlines the process for submitting accessibility complaints, and assists local communities with identifying gaps in transportation accessibility.

“True community living is not possible without the ability to easily move from one location to another,” said Congresswoman Titus. “I’m proud to build upon the Americans with Disabilities Act so we can eliminate lingering barriers to adequate and accessible transportation.”

“This bill is about making paratransit work better for the people who rely on it,” said Congressman Van Drew. “Right now, the system is too rigid and does not reflect how people actually live their lives. These individuals already deal with enough challenges, and this bill is a commonsense fix that can really make their day a little easier. I am proud to join Congresswoman Titus to push for a smarter, more flexible system that actually works for the people it is meant to serve.”

The Disability Access to Transportation Act includes:

• Findings that highlight the ongoing need to improve access to and modernize transportation systems for those with disabilities;
• The creation of a new one-stop paratransit pilot program authorized at $75 million annually through FY29, which will allow for a brief stop on a multi-legged paratransit trip to prevent long wait times between having to book individual trip segments. This will allow people with disabilities to perform activities like stopping at a bank or pharmacy or dropping children off at daycare without needing to book two separate trips that could each take up to 90 minutes. The pilot program also prioritizes projects that use real-time tracking and on-demand scheduling technologies;
• Requires the Architectural and Transportation Barriers Compliance Board to finalize minimum standards for pedestrian facilities in the public right-of-way, and requires the Secretary of Transportation to undertake a rulemaking to implement those standards;
• Streamlines the accessibility complaint reporting process at the Federal Transit Administration (FTA); and
• The creation of an accessibility data pilot program to improve data collection and identify gaps in services to aid in transportation planning.

The bill has been endorsed by the United Spinal Association; Access Ready Inc.; American Council of the Blind; Family Voices; Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund; Paralyzed Veterans of America; and Cure SMA.

“Paratransit is clunky, outmoded, and outdated. In an era of on-demand ride hailing, it’s clear that reforms are needed to take advantage of technological innovation,” said Steve Lieberman, Senior Director of Advocacy & Policy for United Spinal Association. “The Disability Access to Transportation Act would provide an opportunity for people with disabilities to be able to drop off their dry cleaning on their way to work, or pick up a prescription on the way home. We hope that all members of Congress support this sensible, bipartisan legislation.”

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

Bacon Leads Bipartisan Bill to Help Postpartum Women

Washington – Today, Rep. Don Bacon (R-NE-02) alongside Rep. Lori Trahan (D-MA-03), reintroduced H.R. 4074, the Optimizing Postpartum Outcomes Act. This legislation seeks to improve maternal postpartum health by directing the Secretary of Health and Human Services to issue guidance on the coverage of Pelvic Health Physical Therapy (PHPT) for postpartum mothers under the Medicaid program under title XIX of the Social Security Act.

Quality postpartum care for mothers is vital for their long-term health and well-being, but many women suffer from pelvic floor disfunction and diastasis recti abdominis, conditions that can be severely painful. This is treatable with Pelvic Health Physical Therapy; however, many women are unaware of the therapy available to them. When working with a Pelvic Health Physical Therapist, women receive a treatment plan to improve muscle control and mobility, aid in tissue repair and recovery from cesarean sections. 

“As a husband, father, and grandfather, I recognize the importance of supporting postpartum women,” said Rep. Bacon. “Our care for women should extend to postpartum recovery, to ensure that they are living without pain or discomfort, especially when the therapy available is highly effective.”

“Far too often, women’s postpartum health concerns are overlooked or dismissed, despite the serious and lasting impact they can have on quality of life,” said Rep. Trahan. “The Optimizing Postpartum Outcomes Act is a commonsense step toward making Pelvic Health Physical Therapy more accessible for new mothers, especially those who rely on Medicaid. By ensuring that women receive the care and support they need after giving birth, we’re investing in stronger families and healthier communities.”

H.R. 4074 would be a step towards making quality postpartum care available to all women. With approximately three million births in the United States every year, there are three million women who could benefit from Pelvic Health Physical Therapy in their recovery.

The bill is supported by health care professionals and physical therapists, including the American Physical Therapy Association. 

“APTA Pelvic Health is proud to continue our collaboration with Congress in advancing the recognition of pelvic health physical therapy for women during both prenatal and postnatal care,” said Kim Parker-Guerrero, PT, DPT, president-elect of the academy. “This important legislation will ensure new mothers have access to the vital education and support needed to engage with pelvic health physical therapy, helping to prevent issues that might arise without early intervention and care.”

“I’m excited for the reintroduction of the perinatal bill, H.R. 4074,” said Gail Zitterkopf, PT, DPT, government relations chair for APTA Pelvic Health. “This grassroots-inspired bill will positively impact and enhance lives through ensuring pelvic health physical therapy for those who are pregnant.”

The text of the legislation can be found here. 

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman French Hill (AR-02)

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. French Hill (AR-02) introduced the Revitalizing Investment, Savings, and Entrepreneurship (RISE) Act, which he co-leads with Rep. Steube (R-FL). The RISE Act will unlock capital, boost investment, and stimulate economic growth and innovation for all Americans by limiting the capital gains tax rate to 15%.

Rep. Hill said, “To build a stronger, more prosperous future, we need policies that unlock capital, reward risk-taking, and drive real growth for all Americans. That is exactly what the RISE Act delivers. My bill restores the proven, bipartisan capital gains tax rate that encourages long-term investment in Main Street businesses and drives innovation across our country. With greater access to capital, startups can turn ideas into reality, small businesses will expand and hire, and hardworking Americans will have more opportunity and higher wages.”

Rep. Steube said, “American businesses rely on investment to grow and thrive. Yet, our current tax code burdens entrepreneurs and startups by taxing federal long-term capital gains at nearly 24%, creating a costly barrier to investment. Investing in America should never be a high-risk, expensive gamble. True long-term prosperity and economic security start when Washington unlocks more capital for U.S. industries. Our bill will cap the federal long-term capital gains tax rate at 15%, empowering investors to fuel economic growth and create good-paying American jobs.”

Background:
The RISE Act would limit the capital gains tax rate to 15% for all Americans. This is the top rate that was in effect from 2003 to 2012 and has historically enjoyed bipartisan support. Currently, federal capital gains taxes reach nearly 24% when including the 3.8% Medicare surtax—nearly five percentage points above the OECD average. Combined with state taxes as high as 14%, America’s total rates significantly discourage the business investment needed for economic growth.

High capital gains tax rates increase the cost of capital and reduce overall investment in the economy. When businesses receive more funding to grow, productivity and innovation increase—boosting wages, raising living standards, and keeping prices low for consumers.

The RISE Act builds on bipartisan precedent: President Obama preserved the 15% top rate in 2010 with overwhelming Democratic support, President Bush lowered the top rate to 15% in 2003 and extended the rate in 2006, and President Clinton signed legislation in 1997 to reduce capital gains taxes with significant Democratic backing.

The RISE Act is endorsed by the National Taxpayers Union, National Venture Capital Association, and Americans for Tax Reform.

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

“I want my daughter and all of our children to grow up in a world where they are limitless. Where they have every right and freedom that we grew up with and more. Where they get the healthcare they need, and where they can survive a pregnancy if they choose to become parents.”

“I affirm and believe deep in my bones that these harmful bans and this unjust status quo are not an inevitability, and they are not where this story ends. A more just America is possible.”

Video (YouTube)

WASHINGTON – On the third anniversary of the devastating Dobbs decision, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Co-Chair of the Reproductive Freedom Caucus, joined House Democratic Leadership for a press conference to mark the somber anniversary and renew her calls for comprehensive legislation to protect abortion care and expand access to reproductive healthcare.

In the three years since Dobbs, Republicans at every level of government have advanced cruel abortion bans and other policies that have criminalized patients, providers, and prescribers, denied care to those in need, and robbed many of their lives.

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

Transcript: On Third Anniversary of Dobbs, Pressley, Democrats Continue Fight for Reproductive Justice, Condemn GOP Attacks on Bodily Autonomy
U.S. House of Representatives
June 24, 2025

Good afternoon. Thank you to my esteemed colleagues and all of our partners in good. Thank you to the movement.

This is really a somber day. This attack on bodily autonomy, on healthcare was really the first domino to fall, the first attack in this extremist march towards an abortion ban. And what is that really? A nation of forced birth.

A nation of forced birth while Republicans seek to deny Medicaid and healthcare when 40% of births are covered through Medicaid.

A nation of forced birth when there is already a Black maternal morbidity crisis.

My grandmother, my father’s mother, died in the 1950’s giving birth to my father’s youngest brother. And in 2025, we still see that Black women are still 3 to 4 times more likely to die in childbirth or post-birthing complications.

A nation of forced birth without universal childcare or paid leave.

An administration that is hostile towards the women of this country and working actively to degrade Head Start.

A nation of forced birth.

Three years ago, I was in the bleachers at our daughter’s 8th grade graduation, filled with immense pride and hope that this milestone that she had achieved.

And while at that graduation learned in real time that Roe had been struck down. And I was immediately filled with dread and a heaviness, sobered by the fact that my daughter would be going to sleep with fewer rights than she woke up with that morning.

In the three years since, we have heard horrific testimony in this climate of the criminalization of patients, providers, and prescribers, and their loved ones who have been denied care, denied their dignity, and even robbed of their lives.

Reproductive freedom, abortion care, health care – this is an issue of consequence to millions in this country. Many have been directly impacted, lives have been lost, and more will continue to be.

Amber Thurman was a 28-year-old mother and a medical assistant. She sought medical care out of state due to an abortion ban. And when she needed follow up care, she was turned away. A D&C, a standard medical procedure was discussed and deferred. Amber died on a hospital gurney leaving behind her 5-year-old son.

Adriana Smith was a 30-year-old mom to a vibrant six-year-old and nurse at Emory Hospital. She was sent home from the hospital without the care she needed. She woke up gasping for air, arrived at the hospital and shortly thereafter was declared brain dead. The blood clots the doctors had missed had claimed her life.

To be a Black woman in America navigating our health care system so often means to have your pain dismissed, delegitimized, denied, to be gaslit by the health care system.

Not only was Adriana’s pain dismissed and her son robbed of his mother, but all of this is because of an extreme abortion ban in Georgia, the hospital stated that they could not take her off of life support.

And because she was nine weeks pregnant when she was declared brain dead, about a month past a missed period, the hospital would not allow Adriana’s family to make sensitive end-of-life medical decisions for her. And the hospital made her body an incubator.

This week, baby Chance posthumously came into this world via emergency C section and remains in the NICU. Adriana’s family was finally able to lay her to rest and pick up the pieces as they navigate their deep grief.

These stories are chilling, and you’ll hear many more of them as there are abortion storytellers making their way through our offices and the corridors of Congress this week.

These stories are uncomfortable, challenging all of us to sit in the discomfort so that we never grow complacent or wane in this fight.

My daughter asked me three years ago why do you always say, “When we fight, we win?” And I told her because it’s true. And I will not be a liar to my kid.

There are those who aim to rob families across this country of essential abortion care in their home communities and they’re complicit in this harm.

They are using every tool – the courts, executive actions, and legislation – from state houses to Congress, and notably through this Big Ugly Bill as it makes it way through the Senate as we speak.

The cruelty is the point.

At this point, Republicans can’t deny that they are actually in the business of making people across America sicker, poorer and more vulnerable.

Today, Democrats stand before the American people reaffirming our commitment. I’m so grateful of this steadfast commitment of our leadership.

We will use every tool we have to fight for your healthcare. Abortion care is essential healthcare.

From local mutual aid efforts to fighting like hell in the courts and in the halls of Congress, we won’t cede anything. Because lives depend on it and your families deserve it.

No one should come between a family and their medical providers.

As I close, three years later, today our daughter in a couple days turning 17. She reminds us by the hour.

And as we’re looking at colleges, one key factor that has shaped her decision is her ability to access healthcare. Shamefully, that is now a part of our calculus.

I want my daughter and all of our children to grow up in a world where they are limitless.

Where they have every right and freedom that we grew up with and more.

Where they get the healthcare they need, and where they can survive a pregnancy if they choose to become parents.

And that is why I affirm and believe deep in my bones that these harmful bans and this unjust status quo are not an inevitability, and they are not where this story ends.

A more just America is possible. And we remain strident in our advocacy that everyone receives the care and dignity they deserve.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Raul Ruiz (36th District of California)

Washington, DC – During today’s House Energy and Commerce Committee hearing, Congressman Raul Ruiz, M.D. (CA-25) directly challenged Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. over his role in leading the Make American Health Again (MAHA) Commission and the commission’s release of a report riddled with inaccuracies and misinformation.

Congressman Ruiz pressed Kennedy on whether he had reviewed and fact-checked the report’s sources prior to publication:

Congressman Ruiz: “Mr. Secretary Kennedy, you’re listed as the chair of the [MAHA] Commission. Did you read the report and fact check its sources prior to publication?”

Secretary Kennedy: “All of the factual studies…”

Congressman Ruiz: “Did you read the reports and did you yourself fact check them, sir?”

Secretary Kennedy: “I did not fact check.”

Video and Photos can be found here.

Congressman Ruiz, an emergency medicine physician and longtime advocate for public health and science-based policy, condemned the MAHA report for misleading the public and undermining trust in medical science.

“While public health leaders work around the clock to protect families and children, this kind of dishonesty from the Secretary of Health and Human Services is unacceptable,” said Congressman Dr. Raul Ruiz. “Secretary Kennedy’s entire agenda is built on misrepresentations and falsehoods, citing studies that don’t exist to push dangerous personal beliefs and vendettas. This violates basic scientific rigor, honesty, and trust in his agenda. Kennedy must be held to a higher standard when lives are at stake.”

The hearing comes as Kennedy continues to spread dangerous misinformation about vaccines and public health, claims that have been widely discredited by the medical community.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal (7th District of Washington)

WASHINGTON, DC — U.S. Representative Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Ranking Member of the Immigration Integrity, Security, and Enforcement Subcommittee, along with Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Representative Nanette Barragán (CA-44), today introduced the Health Equity and Access under Law (HEAL) for Immigrant Families Act. This bicameral bill, co-sponsored by 55 members of Congress and endorsed by more than 100 organizations, removes unnecessary and cruel barriers to health care for millions of immigrants of all statuses.

Immigrants in the United States are far more likely to be uninsured than U.S. citizens. In 2023, half of all undocumented immigrant adults and one in five lawfully present immigrant adults were uninsured. Just 6 percent of naturalized citizen adults and 8 percent of U.S.-born citizens are uninsured.

“Health care is a human right that must be accessible to everyone — regardless of immigration status,” said Representative Jayapal. “As a proud immigrant myself, I know that the HEAL Act is a necessary first step to allow more people across America to access the health care they need to live, making all of our communities healthier. As Republicans in Congress work to strip health coverage away from millions of Americans and further decimate our already broken immigration system, we’re working to ensure everyone in this country is able to see a doctor when they need it.”

“Everyone deserves access to comprehensive, affordable, quality care, and the HEAL Act lifts unnecessary barriers to medical care for immigrants,” said Senator Booker. “A more equitable health care system will help create healthier communities and ensure that all families, regardless of immigration status, have access to the care they need.” 

“Access to healthcare shouldn’t depend on your immigration status,” said Representative Barragán. “Healthcare is a basic human right, and it’s time we break down the needless barriers that keep immigrant families from the care they need to survive and thrive. The HEAL Act is a step toward addressing racial health disparities and expanding quality healthcare to everyone in our communities.”

“Withholding health care from immigrants is cruel and doesn’t make our communities safer or healthier,” said Senator Warren. “While the Trump administration continues playing political games with immigrant families, Democrats are fighting to make sure a person’s immigration status doesn’t prevent them from getting life-saving care.”

“As the Trump Administration guts access to health care and basic services for immigrant communities, breaking down barriers to health care for immigrants isn’t just the right thing to do — it’s critical for protecting our public health and economy,” said Senator Padilla. “California is the fourth-largest economy in the world not despite immigrants, but because of their contributions to our workforce. Everyone deserves access to affordable, quality health care no matter their immigration status, and I will keep fighting to continue expanding coverage for these hardworking members of our communities.”

The HEAL for Immigrant Families Act will:

• Restore Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) eligibility to lawfully present immigrants;
• Remove discriminatory Medicare restrictions based on length of U.S. residency for green card holders;
• End the exclusion of undocumented immigrants from Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplaces
• Ensure access to public and affordable coverage for Deferred Action Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients;
• Create a state option to expand Medicaid and CHIP to immigrants regardless of immigration status.

“Rep. Jayapal and Sen. Booker continue to be courageous and powerful champions for immigrant communities by reintroducing the HEAL for Immigrant Families Act,” said Lupe M. Rodríguez, executive director, National Latina Institute for Reproductive Justice. “While immigrant families are currently being attacked and torn apart, this bill promotes a vision for what we want for our collective future. A future that supports immigrant communities by removing long standing systemic barriers to health coverage to help our communities access affordable health care. We are especially grateful that Sen. Booker and Rep. Jayapal are introducing this critical legislation today as we mark three years since the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization decision that overturned the constitutional right to abortion. That decision has disproportionately harmed immigrant communities, for whom abortion bans, misinformation, and the threat of being detained and separated from our families has increased the barriers that keep us from getting the health care we need,” said Lupe M. Rodríguez, Executive Director, National Latina Institute for Reproductive Justice. “We urge Congress to protect immigrant communities and pass this bill.”

“The reproductive justice movement teaches us that true justice means being able to have children, not have children, and raise our families in safe, supportive communities,” said Sung Yeon Choimorrow, executive director, National Asian Pacific American Women’s Forum (NAPAWF). “None of that is possible without health care. In a country that has always been shaped by immigrants, we cannot keep allowing people and families, including the Asian American immigrants who make up more than a quarter of immigrants in the U.S., to be shut out from basic health care because of harmful, outdated policies. These are our mothers, our sisters, and our neighbors. The HEAL Act tears down the barriers facing our communities and reaffirms that everyone deserves the right to care, regardless of background, income, or immigration status.”

“Everyone deserves access to health care, no matter who they are or where they come from,” said Alexis McGill Johnson, president and CEO, Planned Parenthood Action Fund. “It is unacceptable and cruel that many are denied affordable, high-quality, and comprehensive health care because of their immigration status. Amid the ongoing attacks on our immigrant communities and our health care, I thank Reps. Jayapal and Barragán and Senator Booker for reintroducing this critical bill that would break down unjust barriers to care for our immigrant families.”

“As a physician, I’ve witnessed the barriers immigrant families face when trying to access health care. Insurance coverage is a cornerstone of meaningful access; without it, care remains out of reach for too many,” said Dr. Jamila Perritt, MD, MPH, FACOG, President and CEO, Physicians for Reproductive Health. “At a time when attacks on immigrant communities are escalating, we must act now to ensure that everyone—regardless of status—has the right to timely, compassionate, and comprehensive health care. That’s why I join physicians across the country in calling for a swift passage of the HEAL Act. Expanding health coverage to immigrant communities ensures they receive the care they deserve, regardless of their immigration status. Health is a human right and no one should be excluded from receiving healthcare. Congress must pass HEAL – our patients are counting on it.”

“With immigrant families under constant attack, it’s more important than ever to work toward a better, more inclusive future when everyone can get the care we all need,” said Adriana Cadena, campaign director, Protecting Immigrant Families Coalition. “We are proud to champion the HEAL Act – a critical step toward that better future.” 

“Now more than ever, it is critical to affirm that everyone—including immigrants—should have access to health care coverage,” said Wendy Cervantes, Director, Immigration and Immigrant Families, CLASP. “Immigrants already face many restrictions to such care and an onslaught of attacks on them and their families’ health and well-being, ranging from the fear created by the Administration’s mass deportation efforts to the deeply harmful budget reconciliation bill currently under consideration. The HEAL for Immigrant Families Act is a critical step in moving us back in the right direction by giving children and families access to the health care they need to thrive. CLASP is grateful to Representative Jayapal and Senator Booker for their leadership in promoting a vision that supports health care for all.”

The legislation is also co-sponsored by U.S. Representatives Becca Balint (VT-AL), Donald S. Beyer, Jr. (VA-08), Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Salud Carbajal (CA-24), André Carson (IN-07), Troy Carter (LA-02), Greg Casar (TX-35), Kathy Castor (FL-14), Joaquin Castro (TX-20), Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), Judy Chu (CA-28), Jasmine Crockett (TX-30), Suzan DelBene (WA-01), Maxine Dexter (OR-03), Lloyd Doggett (TX-37), Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), Maxwell Frost (FL-10), Jesús “Chuy” García (IL-04), Robert Garcia (CA-42), Sylvia Garcia (TX-29), Jimmy Gomez (CA-34), Jared Huffman (CA-02), Jonathan L. Jackson (IL-01), Sara Jacobs (CA-51), Henry C. “Hank” Johnson, Jr. (GA-04), Ro Khanna (CA-17), Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), Teresa Leger Fernández (NM-03), Ted Lieu (CA-36), Jennifer McClellan (VA-04), James P. McGovern (MA-02), Gwen Moore (WI-04), Jerry Nadler (NY-12), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), Mark Pocan (WI-02), Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Delia Ramirez (IL-03), Andrea Salinas (OR-06), Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Terri Sewell (AL-07), Lateefah Simon (CA-12), Melanie Stansbury (NM-01), Marilyn Strickland (WA-10), Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Juan Vargas (CA-52), Nydia M. Velázquez (NY-07), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), Nikema Williams (GA-05), and Frederica S. Wilson (FL-24), and U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Patty Murray (D-WA), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Edward Markey (D-MA), and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT).

The legislation is endorsed by AAPI Equity Alliance; AAPI NJ; Advocates for Youth; AFL-CIO; Alianza Nacional de Campesinas; All* Above All; Alliance of Filipinos for Immigrant Rights and Empowerment; American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU); American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists; American Muslim Health Professionals (AMHP); Amica Center for Immigrant Rights; Arkansas Black Gay Men’s Forum; Asian & Pacific Islander American Health Forum (APIAHF); Asian American Federation of Florida; Asian Americans United (AAU); Asian Caribbean Exchange; Asian Pacific Institute on Gender-Based Violence; Asian Pacific Islanders Civic Action Network, Massachusetts; Asian Texans for Justice Action Fund; ASISTA; Association of Asian Pacific Community Health Organizations; Autistic Women & Nonbinary Network; Ayuda; CA LGBTQ Health and Human Services Network; California Partnership to End Domestic Violence; CASA; Catholics for Choice; Center for Gender & Refugee Studies; Center for Human Rights and Constitutional Law; Center for Law and Social Policy (CLASP); Center for Reproductive Rights; Center for Victims of Torture; Children’s HealthWatch; Cleveland Jobs with Justice; Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA); Coalition on Human Needs; Coalition to Abolish Slavery and Trafficking; Community Catalyst; Doctors for America ; End SIJS Backlog Coalition; Equality California; Esperanza United; First Focus Campaign for Children; Florida Asian Services ; Freedom Network USA; Georgia Conservation Voters; Global Refugee Awareness Healing Center; Global Urban Cultural Community; Guttmacher Institute; Haven Services Inc. dba Haven Neighborhood Servic; Health Action New Mexico; Healthy Teen Network; Her Justice ; Hispanic Federation; Ibis Reproductive Health; ICAH (Illinois Caucus for Adolescent Health); Immigrant Legal Resource Center; Immigrant Welcome Network Johnson County; Immigration Institute of the Bay Area; In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda ; Inclusive Counseling; Indivisible; Institute for Women’s Policy Research; Ipas US; Jacobs Institute of Women’s Health; Justice for Migrant Women; Justice in Aging; KAN-WIN; Kids in Need of Defense (KIND); Labor Council for Latin American Advancement (LCLAA); Laotian American National Alliance (LANA); Latino; Legal Voice; Maine Equal Justice; MANA, A National Latina Organization; Midwest Access Coalition; Moonbow; National Abortion Federation; National Asian American Pacific Islander Mental Health Association (NAAPIMHA); National Asian Pacific American Women’s Forum (NAPAWF); National Association of Nurse Practitioners in Women’s Health; National Council of Jewish Women; National Employment Law Project; National Family Planning & Reproductive Health Association; National Health Care for the Homeless Council; National Health Law Program; National Immigration Law Center; National Korean American Service and Education Consortium; National Latina Institute for Reproductive Justice; National Network of Abortion Funds; National Network To End Domestic Violence ; National Organization for Women ; National Partnership for New Americans; National Partnership for Women & Families; National Queer Asian Pacific Islander Alliance; National Women’s Law Center Action Fund; NIRH Action Fund; NIWAP, Inc.; Northwest Health Law Advocates (NoHLA); Oasis Legal Services; OCA South Florida Chapter; Our Justice; Oxfam America; People Power United; Physicians for Reproductive Health; Planned Parenthood Federation of America; Plascencia Consulting; Population Connection Action Fund; Positive Women’s Network-USA; Power to Decide; PowHerNY; Prevention Institute; Protecting Immigrant Families; QASPIRA Association; Religious Community for Reproductive Choice; Reproductive Freedom For All; Reproductive Health Access Project; Reproductive Justice Action Collective (ReJAC); Sadhana: Coalition of Progressive Hindus; Sarin Gal; Shriver Center on Poverty Law; SIECUS: Sex Ed for Social Change; Sikh American Legal Defense and Education Fund (SALDEF); SiX Action; South Asian Public Health Association (SAPHA); South Asian SOAR; State Voices Florida; Survivor Justice Center; The Children’s Partnership; The National Association of Nurse Practitioners in Women’s Health (NPWH); The TransLatin@ Coalition; UCSF Bixby Center for Global Reproductive Health; UnidosUS; Union for Reform Judaism; United Parent Leaders Action Network; URGE: Unite for Reproductive & Gender Equity; Voices for Utah Children; Women of Reform Judaism; Women’s Law Project; Women’s Refugee Commission.

Issues: Health Care, Immigration

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Johnson (LA-04)

WASHINGTON — The world is being reminded that peace is only possible when America leads from a position of strength. And that’s why the One Big, Beautiful Bill advances President Trump’s bold Peace through Strength agenda and charts America’s path to strength, security, and sovereignty.

“While Congressional Democrats feign concern about the safety and wellbeing of U.S. service members, House Republicans are working to deliver legislation that actually accomplishes that and supports them. Amid this global threat landscape, there’s never been a better time for a piece of legislation, a once in a generation opportunity like the One Big Beautiful Bill,” Speaker Johnson said. “The One Big Beautiful Bill is a generational investment in American military might, and we need to get it to President Trump’s desk as soon as possible.”

Historic Investment for President Trump’s Golden Dome

• $25 billion to develop this cutting-edge missile defense system. This system will defend Americans against hypersonic missiles, ballistic threats, and next-generation aerial attacks from our adversaries like China and Iran.

Puts American Troops First

• $8.5 billion to improve the quality of life for our servicemembers. This includes funds to improve military barracks and housing; enhance healthcare services; expand educational opportunities and professional assistance programs for military spouses; childcare assistance; among other programs to support servicemembers.

A Down Payment on the Future of America’s National Security

• $34 billion to expand the size and capabilities of our naval fleet
• $21 billion to restock America’s arsenal of munitions and ramp up domestic production of rare earth and critical minerals
• $13 billion to modernize the nuclear deterrence and readiness of nuclear forces
• $11 billion to expand military exercises and improve the readiness of Indo-Pacific forces 
• $7 billion to accelerate delivery of next-generation aircraft and autonomous systems

BOTTOM LINE: The One Big Beautiful Bill is critically important and urgent to guarantee America’s ready, capable, and lethal fighting force.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Diana DeGette (First District of Colorado)

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Health Subcommittee Ranking Member Diana DeGette (CO-01) released the following statement after Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. testified before the Health Subcommittee hearing on the Fiscal Year 2026 HHS budget request.

“Today’s testimony from Secretary Kennedy showed either an effort to obfuscate his agenda for the department or a complete lack of knowledge of the cuts that are happening under his leadership. He didn’t know what vaccine guidance is on his own website and didn’t know the impact of the HIV and Alzheimer’s studies he is cutting.

“Since Secretary Kennedy entered office, he has caused nothing but chaos and destruction. The Department of Health and Human Services is vital to our country, helping to keep Americans healthy while pioneering new cures and treatments for diseases like cancer, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s. The United States has long been the gold standard for medical research — RFK Jr. has tarnished that reputation.

“He failed to aggressively respond to the measles outbreak while hawking unproven treatments like cod liver oil, he released an error-ridden report with fabricated sources, he replaced experts on the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices with anti-vaxxers, he fired some of the leading medical researchers in the world, he failed to respond to outreach from Democrats on the Energy & Commerce Committee, and he is setting American biomedical research back a generation.

“Now, his proposed budget would only further hamper our ability to pursue lifesaving cures and groundbreaking treatments. The FY26 budget request cuts the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention by nearly 54 percent, National Institutes of Health by nearly 40 percent, Food and Drug Administration by 11 percent, among other cuts to mental and behavioral health and primary care. This is an unacceptable reduction in funding for agencies that are carrying out lifesaving work.

“His budget request is a blueprint to make American sicker and poorer, and his stewardship of HHS is having devastating consequences to our public health. Today’s hearing showcased his ineptitude, inexperience, and inability to string together coherent and cogent responses on the issues that fall under his department’s jurisdiction.” 

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Earl L Buddy Carter (GA-01)

Headline: Carter nominates President Donald Trump for Nobel Peace Prize

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) today sent a letter to the Norwegian Nobel Committee nominating President Donald J. Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize in recognition of his historic role in brokering a ceasefire between Israel and Iran and preventing the world’s largest state sponsor of terrorism, Iran, from obtaining a nuclear warhead.

In the letter, Rep. Carter writes, “President Trump took bold action to ultimately

champion peace through strength and facilitate a ceasefire framework that brought hostilities to a halt. In a statement that has since reverberated around the globe, President Trump announced the terms of a complete and total ceasefire agreement, commending both Israel and Iran for their courage to end the war.”

Rep. Carter continues, “In a region plagued by historical animosity and political volatility, such a breakthrough demands both courage and clarity. President Trump demonstrated both, offering the world a rare glimpse of hope. For these reasons, I respectfully submit this nomination for Donald J. Trump, 47th President of the United States, to be considered for the Nobel Peace Prize.”

Read the full letter here. 

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Glenn Grothman (R-Glenbeulah 6th District Wisconsin)

Representatives Glenn Grothman (WI-06), Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), Gus Bilirakis (R-FL), Joe Morelle (D-NY), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), and Doris Matsui (D-CA) have reintroduced the bipartisan Cancer Drug Parity Act, which will lower costs for cancer patients prescribed oral medications. The bill requires health insurers to cover oral cancer treatments on the same level as traditional intravenous (IV) therapies.

Each year, over two million Americans are expected to receive a cancer diagnosis. For many patients, oral cancer treatments have been a game-changer. They offer a more convenient and less invasive option that can be taken at home, reducing the strain of ongoing medical visits. Despite their effectiveness, oral medications often come with high out-of-pocket costs. One study found that one in eight patients faced a copay of $2,000 or more for their first prescription.

“Every American deserves access to effective cancer treatments available at the most affordable rate, without outdated health insurance plans standing in the way,” said Grothman. “As oral medications become more widely used and popular among cancer patients, it’s critical that health plans don’t force patients to choose between effectiveness and affordability. I am proud to work with both sides of the aisle to expand access, reduce costs, and help improve outcomes for cancer patients nationwide.”

“The Cancer Drug Parity Act is a much-needed step toward aligning insurance coverage with the rapid advancements in cancer treatment,” said Rep. Morelle. “This legislation modernizes policies so patients can access therapies when they need them most. As someone who has experienced the pain of losing a loved one to cancer, I understand how crucial it is that patients be able to focus on healing—not navigating the burdens of an unequal insurance system.”

“Cancer patients deserve access to the treatments that offer them the best chance at a full recovery,” said Rep. Bilirakis. “Advances in medical technology are improving outcomes and reducing side effects, and patients should be able to benefit from these innovations. This important bill addresses that need, allowing patients to focus on what matters most—getting well.”

“I’ve heard directly from patients and providers in our community about the financial strain caused by outdated insurance policies.” said Rep. Fitzpatrick. As Co-Chair of the Congressional Cancer Caucus, I’m working to fix that. The Cancer Drug Parity Act takes on a broken system that charges cancer patients more for oral medications simply because of how they’re delivered. Our bipartisan bill brings fairness to cancer care, lowers out-of-pocket costs, and ensures access to the full range of modern, life-saving treatments.”

“Oral chemotherapy should be covered just as widely as traditional IV treatments,” said Rep. Bonamici. “Unfortunately, too many patients are forced to pay high costs and unaffordable co-payments because many oral cancer treatments are not covered by health insurance plans. I’m pleased to join my colleagues in leading the bipartisan Cancer Drug Parity Act to end this double standard and expand access to affordable and effective oral cancer treatments.”

“As oral cancer treatments continue to evolve and become more readily available, it’s essential that patients have affordable access to these advancements in care,” said Rep Matsui. “No one battling cancer should be forced to skip treatment due to overwhelming costs. The bipartisan Cancer Drug Parity Act addresses the unequal coverage of oral therapies, empowering patients and healthcare providers to choose the most effective treatment path without financial barriers.”

“Cancer treatment should be guided by what works medically, not by outdated insurance policies. Too often, patients face higher costs simply because their most effective treatment comes in a pill rather than through an IV,” said Danielle Doheny, Director of Public Policy and Advocacy at the International Myeloma Foundation. “The Cancer Drug Parity Act addresses this unfair disparity by ensuring consistent insurance coverage for all cancer treatments. This legislation will reduce financial burdens and help patients access the care they need without unnecessary barriers. We are proud to support this important step toward more reliable and fair treatment access for every patient.”

“Disparities in out-of-pocket costs for oral cancer treatments can impact patient and physician decision-making and can lead to patients forgoing the best treatment for their disease,” said Lisa Lacasse, President of the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network. “Many patients prefer, when appropriate, chemotherapies that are available in pill form because it is easier to administer and can allow them to have a better quality of life. The Cancer Drug Parity Act would equalize out-of-pocket costs for cancer drugs, whether they’re taken orally or delivered intravenously. We urge Congress to advance this lifesaving, bipartisan legislation.”

Background Information

Despite their benefits, oral cancer treatments often come with higher out-of-pocket costs than traditional IV chemotherapy due to differences in insurance coverage. IV treatments are typically covered under a plan’s medical benefit, while oral drugs fall under the prescription benefit, creating cost disparities.

To address this, 43 states and D.C. have passed “oral parity” laws requiring equal coverage for oral and IV treatments. These laws have helped lower costs, but patients enrolled in federally regulated health plans remain unprotected.

The Cancer Drug Parity Act builds on the success of state-level reforms by ensuring equal

coverage for all cancer patients, regardless of how their treatments are administered.

Specifically, the bill will:

·         Expand oral parity protections to privately insured patients whose health care is regulated at the federal level.

·         Prevent insurers from covering oral and self-administered medicines at different cost-sharing rates than IV chemotherapy.

·         Implement these requirements for health plans that already cover both oral and IV chemotherapy treatments.

Grothman introduced a similar version of the bill in 2023.

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U.S. Rep. Glenn Grothman (R-Glenbeulah) proudly serves the people of Wisconsin’s 6th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives