MIL USHOR-2b Engine

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Bruce Westerman (AR-04)

For four years, the American people have been in last place. Under the previous administration, Americans felt increasing financial burdens, economic woes, and safety concerns at every turn. Countless constituents across the Fourth District called our offices in Washington D.C. and Arkansas to express their deep concerns with how they were going to keep their families safe, warm, and fed. So, in November, when it was time for the American people to cast their vote, they voted for prosperity, for relief, and for solutions. Within the first week of President Trump’s second administration, he has held true to his promises of putting Americans first.

In recent travels to the southern border, it was clear that our nation is facing an unprecedented national security crisis. Increased drug trafficking, human trafficking, and illegal border crossings just miles away from American homes, families, and children has exacerbated the need for an administration to protect the American people from dangerous individuals who threaten the safety of our citizens, not just in border states, but across the entire country. In November, the American people voted for a president who decided to face the border crisis directly and put the safety of the American people first. President Trump’s numerous Executive Orders during his first week in office did just that – declaring a national emergency at the southern border, authorizing continued wall construction, ending the “catch and release” program, and designating drug cartels as Foreign Terrorist Organizations, among additional efforts that will bolster our national security.

While the President made extensive steps to secure our nation’s borders, House and Senate Republicans were hard at work keeping our promises to the American people as well. Recently, the House and Senate passed the Laken Riley Act, which was then sent to the President’s desk to be signed into law this week. Last year, a young nursing student with a bright future was senselessly and tragically murdered by an illegal immigrant who took advantage of the soft border policies under the previous administration. 

Unfortunately, we hear similar stories far too often. Just a few months ago, our Fourth District lost a friend, daughter, and devoted public servant at the hands of an illegal immigrant, reminding us that this issue is just as close to home as the unfortunate incident in Georgia. Under the Republican controlled House, Senate, and White House, we are ensuring that our borders are secure, Americans are protected, and no more families will ever have to grieve a senseless loss like this again.

While there is certainly a long road ahead of us, House Republicans remain dedicated to working with the new administration to create a better America for all Americans instead of creating a border security crisis that puts every American at risk. It’s time for common sense to enter back into the equation as we tackle these issues. The American people made their choice in November, and in the first few weeks, the Republican-led Congress and President Trump established bipartisan law to change course in keeping Americans safe, but there is still much work left to be done.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Tom McClintock Representing the 4th District of California

H.R. 176 authored by Rep. McClintock today passed the House Judiciary Committee.  

The Congressman delivered the following remarks at the hearing in support of the legislation:

Statement on H.R. 176 
No Immigration Benefits for Hamas Terrorists Act
February 26, 2025

Mr. Chairman:

Although our political differences these days are vast, there are still some things we came together on in this committee during the last session, and one of them was an enduring opposition to Hamas and the terrorism they unleashed on innocent civilians in Israel a little over 500 days ago.

Just last week, the barbaric inhumanity of Hamas was revealed again in the macabre and infuriating spectacle of returning the bodies of the Bibas family.  We last saw Shiri alive on October 7th 2023 as she was seized, terrified and sobbing, begging for the lives of her two little boys as they were dragged into the hell on Earth that Hamas created.  Last week, their murdered bodies were returned as trophies, and later we learned in a final act of cruelty, that Sheri’s body had been substituted for another.

We all came together on this committee last year and said that such monsters as these should never be admitted into our country, never given safe haven on our soil, and never tolerated when we find them.

HR 176 says that anyone associated with Hamas or Palestinian Islamic Jihad, in any capacity, or anyone who assisted their terrorist activities in any form, will not be allowed in this country under any circumstances, will be immediately removed if we find them here, and under no circumstances will we  allow them to receive any immigration benefit under our laws.

For reasons I find inexplicable, the Senate couldn’t be bothered to take up this bill in the last session.  Hopefully, they will find the time in this session.

Under current law, being a member of Hamas or being associated with its barbaric attack against Israel is not an explicit ground of inadmissibility or removability.  That’s not good enough.  Anyone who gave them support in any form should never be allowed in this country.

During the Biden years,  the number of known or suspected terrorists encountered at the Southern border soared to 392.  Too many were allowed into the country.  How many more were among the two million known got-aways is anybody’s guess.

After the October 7 attacks, Director Wray warned that the FBI “cannot and [does] not discount the possibility that Hamas…could exploit the conflict to call on their supporters to conduct attacks on our own soil.”

In the last month, we recorded a 95 percent reduction in illegal border crossings, thanks to President Trump’s determination to protect our country and secure our borders.  This bill will give them an additional tool to quickly remove dangerous foreign nationals from our soil.  And it will make it impossible for future presidents to waive in these monsters to take residence in our communities.

This bill sends an important message around the world: if you have associated with Hamas, you will get no comfort or quarter here.  You are persona non grata in America, as you should be in any corner of the world that values peace, justice, and human dignity.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Tom McClintock Representing the 4th District of California

Washington, D.C. – Representative Tom McClintock and members of the California congressional delegation today sent a letter to President Biden calling on him not to establish a proposed Range of Light National Monument.  The proposed monument would redesignate over 1.4 million acres of federal land, including the entirety of the Sierra National Forest and the San Joaquin River Gorge.

The letter is co-signed by Representatives Doug LaMalfa, Kevin Kiley, Vince Fong, David Valadao, Jay Obernolte and Darrell Issa.

The text of the letter is below and here:

January 8, 2025
 

The Honorable Joe Biden
President
The White House
1600 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Washington, DC 20500

Dear President Biden,

We write to express our strong opposition to the proposed Range of Light National Monument, which would redesignate over 1.4 million acres of federal land, including the entirety of the Sierra National Forest and the San Joaquin River Gorge.

In 1906, the Antiquities Act provided the Executive Branch with the authority to designate national monuments on federal land containing a historic or scientific interest.  These designations were to “be confined to the smallest area compatible with proper care and management of the objects to be protected.”  Those objects are confined to “historic landmarks, historic and prehistoric structures, or other objects of historic or scientific interest.”  The Supreme Court has long held that the power over public land is entrusted to Congress, but Presidents have broadly interpreted the Antiquities Act and abused its original intent to expand both the size and justifications for national monument designations.  Although the Antiquities Act gives the President the authority to establish national monuments on federal lands, it would be prudent to recognize the importance of congressional and local input before implementing a change that would greatly affect the local areas.

Since the Range of Light National Monument’s inception, there has been strong opposition from various stakeholders around the area of the proposed monument.  These stakeholders recognize that the decreased access from the designation would be devastating for the local economy, and the increased environmental regulation from the designation would be counterproductive to prevent forest fires.  This designation would be a gross government overreach, and due to the potentially devastating effects of the proposal, along with the strong opposition of local stakeholders, we call on you to not establish the proposed Range of Light National Monument.

Thank you for your consideration.  Should you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Tom McClintock Representing the 4th District of California

Congressman Tom McClintock (CA-05) introduced the following bills at the start of the 119th Congress:

Proven Forest Management Act – The Proven Forest Management Act expands throughout the entire National Forest System the categorical exclusion for forest management projects that was secured for the Tahoe Basin in the 2016 WINN Act.

Action Versus No Action Act – The Action Versus No Action Act requires federal land management agencies to evaluate forest management activity and the alternative of no action.

Legislation to require the Secretary of Agriculture to carry out activities to suppress wildfires, and for other purposes – The legislation requires the Secretary of Agriculture to engage in wildfire suppression and management activities that apply to Forest Service land within 24 hours of identifying a fire. 

Consequences for Social Security Fraud Act – The bill makes certain acts related to Social Security or identification document fraud a ground for barring a non-U.S. national from admission into the United States or deporting the individual.  Offenses that trigger this ground of inadmissibility and deportability include knowingly and without lawful authority producing a false identification document and making a false statement of material fact in an application for Social Security disability benefits.

No Immigration Benefits for Hamas Terrorists Act – The bill prohibits any non-U.S. national who participated in or otherwise facilitated the October 7, 2023, attacks from seeking any immigration-related relief or protections, including protection from being deported to a country where the individual’s life or freedom would be threatened, or asylum in the United States.

Deport Alien Gang Members Act – The bill creates grounds of inadmissibility and deportability for criminal gang members, sets procedures for the designation of criminal gangs by the Secretary of Homeland Security, mandates detention for such aliens, and denies any form of immigration-related relief to such aliens.

Yosemite National Park Equal Access and Fairness Act – The bill allows for recreation on Hetch Hetchy and requires San Francisco to pay fair market value on water from Hetch Hetchy.

Law Enforcement Officer and Firefighter Recreation Pass Act – The bill directs the Department of Agriculture and the Department of the Interior to make the National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass available, at no cost, to a law enforcement officer or firefighter who provides adequate proof of eligibility.

Legislation to amend the Endangered Species Act of 1973 to provide that artificially propagated animals shall be treated the same under that Act as naturally propagated animals – The bill allows animals hatched in a fish hatchery to be counted towards the Endangered Species Act count.

Endangered Species Transparency and Reasonableness Act – The bill revises requirements concerning determinations on whether a species is a threatened or endangered species under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 and caps attorney’s fees to prevailing parties in ESA citizen suits.

Default Prevention Act – The Default Prevention Act guarantees the sovereign debt of the United States Government by authorizing the Treasury Secretary to continue to borrow to pay interest and principal due on the debt, even in the event of an impasse concerning the debt limit.

Amendment to the Constitution of the United States to provide certain line-item veto authority to the President – The joint resolution proposes a constitutional amendment that authorizes the President to use a line-item veto to reduce an appropriation in a bill or joint resolution.

Amendment to the Constitution of the United States prohibiting the United States Government from increasing its debt except for a specific purpose by law adopted by three-fourths of the membership of each House of Congress – The joint resolution proposes a constitutional amendment that prohibits the U.S. government from increasing its debt except for a specific purpose by law adopted by three-fourths of the membership of each chamber of Congress.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Tom McClintock Representing the 4th District of California

Washington, D.C. – Legislation to honor Corporal Michael D. Anderson Jr. passed the United States House of Representatives today.

The bill, H.R. 1555, introduced by Rep. McClintock (CA-05), will designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 2300 Sylvan Avenue in Modesto, California, as the “Corporal Michael D. Anderson Jr. Post Office Building”.

Corporal Anderson was a native of Modesto, California.  After the September 11 terror attacks, he bravely answered his nation’s call to service by enlisting in the Marine Corps.  He became a member of the Fleet Antiterrorism Security Teams, or FAST Company.  On December 14, 2004, Corporal Anderson was tragically killed in action while clearing a stronghold in Fallujah, Iraq.

While speaking on the House floor in support of the legislation, Rep. McClintock stated that this bill will “honor and remember those among us who gave up everything”.

The bill was unanimously supported by the Modesto City Council, the Stanislaus County Board of Supervisors, the California Congressional Delegation, and the House Committee on Oversight.

The bill next goes to the Senate for approval.

Below are Rep. McClintock’s full remarks in support of the bill.

H.R. 1555 Michael D. Anderson Jr. Post Office
House Chamber, Washington, D.C.
June 3, 2024

I am proud to present H.R. 1555 for consideration.  This measure names the post office in Modesto, California in honor and memory of Corporal Michael D. Anderson, Jr.  This bill has the unanimous support of the Modesto City Council, the Stanislaus County Board of Supervisors, the entire California Congressional Delegation, and the House Oversight Committee.

There are those who scoff at post office naming bills like this.  Such smug critics simply either do not appreciate or do not understand the sacrifices that these bills recognize and the heroism behind the events that give rise to them.  Let me tell you about the young man this bill honors today.

Mike Anderson was a kid who grew up in Modesto – a farm town in California’s Central Valley that has always maintained the values and traditions of middle America and Mike reflected that in every way.  He loved skateboarding, snowboarding and motorcycles.  He loved tinkering with cars and going camping.  But most importantly, he loved his family, his friends and his country.  As he graduated from Johansen High School, he could look forward to a long and happy lifetime ahead of him.

But in September of that year, America was attacked.  And without hesitation, he stepped forward to defend his country and all that it stands for: the simple freedoms and uniquely American values that produce model towns like Modesto and model citizens like Mike Anderson.  He enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, where he quickly distinguished himself.

He became a member of the Fleet Antiterrorism Security Teams, or FAST Company, an elite Marine Corps team designed to fight terror around the world.  In that capacity, he received a letter of commendation from U.S. Ambassador James Foley for defending the U.S. Embassy during riots directed at it.

In September 2004, Corporal Anderson deployed to Iraq to participate in Operation Iraqi Freedom, where he was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 5th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, of the First Marine Expeditionary Force.  The Modesto Community rallied around Mike and raised money to ensure that he had the best equipment available including three different sets of protective goggles.

Eleven days before Christmas, on December 14, 2004, Corporal Anderson was leading Marines and Iraqi soldiers in urban clearing operations of the insurgent occupied buildings in the city of Fallujah.  He was the first into a stronghold, when he was tragically killed in action.  He was twenty-one years old.  Corporal Anderson had been scheduled to leave Iraq just a few months later and return to his family where they had already planned a joyous family reunion and vacation.

Corporal Anderson showed tremendous bravery and incredible courage throughout his service and especially that day — his last day — in Fallujah.  It is reflected in his military decorations: including two Purple Hearts, the Marine Corps Achievement Medal with the “V” attachment for Valor, as well as the Combat Action Ribbon.

What stands out the most in the memories of his comrades in arms was his self-sacrifice and concern for the Marines in his squad.  His father remembers, “He was more worried about telling me about one of the guys in his unit first, before telling me about what happened to him.  He felt that since he was a squad leader, he had to take care of his men first.”

James Michener’s haunting question echoes on such exploits, “Where do we get such men?”

We get them from towns like Modesto, from loving families like the Andersons.  Decent young men and women with promising futures who are willing to leave the safety and comfort of hearth and home when their country needs them, and to step into harm’s way to protect their families, their neighbors, their countrymen, and above all, the cause of freedom.

A more important question is, “What would we do without them?”

A few feet from here in the Capitol Rotunda is a fresco called the “Apotheosis of Washington.”  It depicts Gen. Washington, in uniform, ascending to the heavens, flanked by victory and freedom, and surrounded by the essence and fruits of a free nation.  And in that depiction, Washington beckons.

From little towns like Modesto, California, decent young men and women with happy lives and promising futures like Mike Anderson Jr. have answered his call.  I don’t know how their families can bear it.

But I do know what we owe them.  And I do know that we can never repay that debt, except to honor their memory and keep their sacrifice always in mind.  That’s what bills like this are all about: to honor and remember those among us who gave up everything “To proclaim liberty throughout all the land, and unto all the inhabitants thereof.”

Mr. Speaker, the people of Modesto, California and the family of Corporal Anderson — his parents, Angie and Michael Sr., as well as his two little sisters, Callie and Allie – and a grateful nation, ask that the post office of his hometown be named to honor and memorialize the life, service, patriotism, heroism, and ultimate sacrifice of Corporal Michael D. Anderson Jr.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Tom McClintock Representing the 4th District of California

Washington, D.C. – H.R. 6678 and H.R. 6679 by Rep. Tom McClintock (CA-05) passed the House floor today.  The “Consequences for Social Security Fraud Act” (H.R. 6678) and the “No Immigration Benefits for Hamas Terrorists Act” (H.R. 6679) will next go to the Senate.

H.R. 6678 makes aliens inadmissible to, and removable from, the United States if such aliens are convicted of or admit to committing Social Security fraud and identification document fraud.

The current process for holding aliens accountable for Social Security fraud and identification document fraud is bureaucratized to the point of absurdity.  In one case an alien trafficking in phony identification documents was placed in removal proceedings in 2005, with the lengthy appeals process not concluding until 2013.

Despite the harm of Social Security fraud, there is no guarantee that an alien convicted of or admitting to this crime can be found inadmissible to or removable from the United States.

“The Consequences for Social Security Fraud Act” changes the arduous, counterintuitive, and lengthy process by streamlining the analysis and ensuring that criminal aliens can be held to account and quickly removed from the country for victimizing Americans for Social Security fraud and identification document fraud.

“The No Immigration Benefits for Hamas Terrorists Act” provides that any alien who carried out, participated in, planned, financed, afforded material support to, or otherwise facilitated any of the attacks against Israel initiated by Hamas beginning on October 7, 2023, be found inadmissible to and removable from the United States and ineligible for all relief under the immigration laws.

“It is imperative that Congress ensures that these bad actors will find no refuge in the United States,” remarked Rep. McClintock upon passage of H.R. 6679.

# # #

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif)

Monterey, CA – United States Representative Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) continued his service for California’s 19th Congressional District by hosting numerous town halls, listening sessions, and more last week.  Rep. Panetta’s public engagement with constituents focused on the Administration’s potential cuts to Social Security, Medicaid, Medicare, federal jobs, federal funding for research, and more. 

Rep. Panetta has held 13 town halls since the beginning of this Administration, including eight public town halls and five virtual town halls.  Rep. Panetta continues to show up, listen up and learn from his constituents, and prides himself on being accessible.  While the Majority party is telling its Members of Congress to avoid town halls, Rep. Panetta is doing the opposite, providing forums for constituents and community stakeholders to make their voices heard and have their questions answered during the chaotic start of the 119^th Congress.

“As this Administration allows Elon Musk and DOGE to make cuts and changes to federal agencies that could easily disrupt federal benefits for working families across our country, my job is to continue to show up, serve, and fight for the people in California’s 19^th Congressional District,” said Rep. Panetta. “I’m proud to have held as many town halls and public engagements as I have in such a short period of time, bringing people together, listening to them, and working with them so that we can continue to stand shoulder-to-shoulder to protect federal services and defend our values.  By bringing people together, along with the proper legislation, investigation, litigation, communication, and mobilization, we are ensuring that our system of checks and balances is strong and that our democracy is fortified.”

Rep. Panetta hosted numerous events last week, including:

• Social Security Town Hall with former Commissioner O’Malley
  Rep. Panetta hosted a virtual town hall with former Social Security Commissioner Martin O’Malley to discuss the Administration’s overhaul of the Social Security Administration and its impact on earned benefits. The event, conducted virtually, allowed participation from thousands of constituents across California’s 19th Congressional District.
   
• Federal Employee Listening Session
  Rep. Panetta met with federal employees impacted by terminations under this Administration. The session focused on the uncertainty faced by workers and highlighted efforts to protect federal services.
   
• Social Security Town Hall 
  Rep. Panetta hosted a public town hall to discuss the threat to Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid posed by proposed budget cuts.
   
• Medicaid Town Hall 
  Rep. Panetta hosted another public town hall to discuss the potential impacts of the proposed cuts to Medicaid, which would affect over 165,000 residents in the district.
   
• Roundtable Discussion on NIH 
  Rep. Panetta convened leaders and researchers for a roundtable discussion addressing the severe impacts of the ongoing federal funding freeze on scientific progress. The conversation focused on the Administration’s funding freeze, its generational effects on university research, and strategies to push back against these setbacks and support future scientific endeavors.

Rep. Panetta hosted a virtual town hall with former Social Security Commissioner Martin O’Malley to discuss the Administration’s overhaul of the Social Security Administration and its impact on earned benefits. The event, conducted virtually, allowed participation from thousands of constituents across California’s 19th Congressional District.

This week, Rep. Panetta will return to Washington, D.C. to continue fighting for the people and values of California’s 19^th Congressional District.  The Majority continues to push forward with its budget reconciliation proposal.  As a Member of the House Ways and Means Committee, Rep. Panetta will take an active role in the defense of Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif)

Monterey, CA – Today, in celebration of National Ag Trade Day, Representative Jimmy Panetta (D-CA) joined Agricultural Trade Caucus co-chairs Adrian Smith (R-NE), Jim Costa (D-CA), and Dusty Johnson (R-S) to introduce a resolution expressing a renewed commitment to supporting market access, robust trade enforcement, elimination of trade barriers, trade promotion programs, comprehensive agreements, and the pursuit of science-based standards in U.S. trade engagements. 

“Producers in California’s 19th Congressional District and across the country are facing growing trade barriers, declining exports, and the loss of hard-earned global market share,” said Rep. Panetta. “That’s why, as co-chair of the Ag Trade Caucus, my colleagues and I are introducing this bipartisan resolution to push Congress and the administration to urgently pursue policies that open markets and enforce trade commitments.  By working together, we can protect our producers, support rural communities, and ensure the United States remains a global leader in feeding the world.”

“Over the last four years, American farmers and ranchers lost ground in international markets, moving from an agriculture trade surplus to a record trade deficit,” said Rep. Smith. “The U.S. must drive an aggressive agenda to level the playing field and ensure our hardworking producers, who have the capacity to meet demand, can sell their products globally. Through negotiation of USMCA and other advancements on trade in his first term, President Trump showed an ability to overcome trade barriers by working in consultation with Congress to increase market access. This resolution calls for similar efforts to ensure American agriculture has a place at the table as we craft trade policy.”

“This bipartisan resolution emphasizes the vital role of ag trade, particularly in the San Joaquin Valley, where agriculture is at the heart of our economy.  We must ensure that farmers have the tools and opportunities they need to succeed, while also building a sustainable food supply chain that will continue to feed future generations,” said Rep. Costa.

“Agriculture is the backbone of America and an essential part of our economy,” said Rep. Johnson. “South Dakota is no stranger to the agriculture way of life and the importance of ag trade. I’m proud to partner with the Ag Trade Caucus to highlight the value of ag trade for our country and our farming and ranching families and communities.” 

The resolution is cosponsored by Representatives Darin LaHood (R-IL), Don Bacon (R-NE), Josh Harder (D-CA), Claudia Tenney (R-NY), Brad Schneider (D-IL), Eric Sorensen (D-IL), Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ), Max Miller (R-OH), Dan Newhouse (R-WA), Greg Landsman (D-OH), Shri Thanedar (D-MI), Randy Feenstra (R-IA), Sanford Bishop (D-GA), Jeff Hurd (R-CO), and Bennie Thompson (D-MS). 

Read the full resolution here. 

The Resolution is supported by: American Farm Bureau Federation, National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, National Milk Producers Federation, National Chicken Council, National Turkey Federation, Meat Institute, National Pork Producers Council, U.S. Dairy Export Council, American Soybean Association, Corn Refiners Association, California League of Food Producers, Meat Import Council of America, National Council of Farmer Cooperatives, Fresh Produce Association of the Americas, Sweetener Users Association, USA Rice, American Feed Industry Association, Leather & Hide Council of America, Independent Bakers Association, Food Export-Midwest & Food Export-Northeast, and North American Export Grain Association,

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif)

Monterey, CA – United States Representative Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) introduced legislation to extend the Qualified Hazardous Duty Area (QHDA) designation to Mali, Burkina Faso, Kenya, and Chad, ensuring that U.S. servicemembers stationed in these high-risk areas receive critical tax exclusion benefits.  This bill comes alongside bipartisan support from fellow lawmakers and endorsements from leading military organizations, including the Special Operations Association of America and the Military Officers Association of America.

The QHDA designation allows servicemembers deployed in hazardous areas to exclude their compensation from federal taxes.  Currently, only countries where servicemembers receive Imminent Danger Pay (IDP) are eligible for this designation.  Mali, Chad, Kenya, Burkina Faso have already been designated as IDP areas.  Rep. Panetta secured retroactive IDP for servicemembers operating in Burkina Faso following deteriorating security conditions.

“The Sahel region is facing increasing threats from violent extremist organizations and mercenary groups, including Russian proxies, and our servicemembers are operating in extremely dangerous conditions,” said Rep. Panetta.  “This legislation acknowledges the sacrifices our men and women in uniform make every day to bring stability to a region marked by political instability and rising threats.  Providing this tax benefit is a small way to honor their service and ensure they are supported while serving in these high-risk environments.”

The Sahel region is witnessing increased activity from violent extremist organizations and political instability, including numerous military coups and ongoing instability in neighboring countries.  With the withdrawal of French partner forces, U.S. military personnel in the region are now operating with limited additional support, including medical evacuation services.  This legislation provides much-needed support for the relatively small number of U.S. servicemembers deployed in the region.

The total cost of the proposal is estimated at just $3 million over the next decade, given the small number of U.S. servicemembers stationed in these areas.  The bill ensures that when a country is no longer designated for IDP, the QHDA designation will automatically end, ensuring that the benefits are provided only as long as necessary.

The legislation is being led by Reps. Austin Scott (GA-08), Blake Moore (UT-01), Brad Schneider (IL-10), (GA-08), Trent Kelly (MS-01), Richard Hudson (NC-09), Salud Carbajal (CA-24), Zach Nunn (IA-03), Rich McCormick (GA-06), Pat Fallon (TX-04), Mark Messmer (IN-08), Don Davis (NC-01), Derrick Van Orden (WI-03), Jen Kiggans (VA-02). Chrissy Houlahan (PA-06), Seth Moulton (MA-06), and Cory Mills (FL-07).

“As our foreign adversaries expand their influence in the Sahel, the risk to our servicemembers in that region increases,” said Rep. Scott.  “It only makes sense that they receive benefits that reflect that risk.”

“The Sahel has emerged as the epicenter of global terrorism, accounting for over half of terrorism-related deaths worldwide and posing unprecedented threats to security and stability,” said Rep. Schneider.  “Our servicemembers stationed in this region confront escalating violence and increasingly complex threats every day, often under conditions as dangerous as combat zones.  This bipartisan effort acknowledges their sacrifices by extending well-deserved tax benefits, recognizing their bravery and commitment as they serve on the front lines of this critical global security challenge.”

“It has been my priority on the Ways and Means Committee to represent the interests of our military servicemembers through commonsense tax policies like this,” said Rep. Moore.  “The Sahel region poses acute threats to the American homeland, and our servicemembers stationed there should be given every possible leg up from Congress.  At a time when terrorist activity in the Sahel is ramping up and Russian mercenaries are stalking the region to exert their influence, now is the time to provide this low-cost tax exclusion to uniformed Americans putting their lives on the line.”

“The Sahel region of Africa has become a hotspot for global instability, with our servicemembers facing increasing danger and violence in the region everyday,” said Rep. Carbajal.  “As threats continue to grow, extending tax benefits to the troops serving there is a simple and necessary step.  I’m proud to support this vital legislation to honor their service.”

“Our servicemembers in high-risk areas sacrifice so much for our country, they deserve nothing less than our unwavering support,” said Rep. Kiggans. “As threats in the Sahel region of Africa continue to rise, we must do everything in our power to take care of our troops on the ground working to neutralize terrorist activity and restore peace and stability.  Providing tax exclusion benefits to our brave servicemembers stationed in dangerous areas like the Sahel is a no brainer.  I am proud to join my colleagues in introducing this important legislation to support the men and women in uniform who risk so much to serve our great nation.”

“Our servicemembers face an increasingly deadly and complex threat landscape in the Sahel region of Africa,” said Rep. Nunn.  “Their fight against extreme terrorists and Russian mercenaries is critical to peace and stability in the region and we’re here to support their mission all the way.  This bipartisan effort extends critical tax benefits for our troops in high-risk areas and I’m proud to join my colleagues to support our men and women in uniform.”   

“As a Marine officer who has spent time in hazardous theaters, I understand the added pressures and risks that are incurred,” said Rep. McCormick.  “Our service members in the Sahel are operating in an increasingly dangerous environment, facing threats from terrorist organizations, Russian mercenaries, and political instability. The Qualified Hazardous Duty Area designation rightly recognizes their sacrifice and ensures they receive the benefits they have earned.  This is a common-sense measure to support those who put their lives on the line for our national security.”

“Today, there is no sanctuary for service members – at home or abroad. This legislation is far overdue and is displayed from the bi-partisan veteran co-sponsors,” said the Special Operations Association of America (SOAA).  “The Special Operations Association of America applauds Representative Panetta and the all-star cast of veteran Members for bringing this legislation to Congress in a region where US Special Operations Forces are heavily engaged.   -David Cook, Executive Director Special Operations Association of America”

“Servicemembers serving across Africa confront substantial and shifting obstacles and hazardous conditions as they collaborate with our regional allies,” said MOAA President and CEO Lt. Gen. Brian T. Kelly, USAF (Ret).  “Extending tax benefits to our personnel operating in this challenging and risky environment aligns with other priorities and geographic areas where our military serves to safeguard our nation and ensure international stability.  MOAA appreciates the bipartisan leadership of the House in championing this legislation to recognize and compensate troops facing well beyond normal hazardous conditions.”

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif)

Monterey, CA – U.S. Representative Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) reintroduced the bipartisan Fair Access to Agriculture Disaster Programs Act, aimed at removing barriers to agriculture disaster assistance for producers.  This bill would provide farmers, ranchers, and other agriculture producers with improved access to federal disaster assistance following natural disasters, ensuring that basic safety net programs are available when they are needed most.  Reps. Kat Cammack (Fl-03), Zoe Lofgren (CA-18), and Austin Scott (GA-08) co-lead this legislation.  A companion bill has been introduced in the Senate by Senators Alex Padilla (D-CA) and Thom Tillis (R-NC).

The Fair Access to Agriculture Disaster Programs Act would address outdated adjusted gross income (AGI) limitations that prevent many full-time farmers from accessing crucial USDA disaster programs. These limitations have not kept pace with inflation, and specialty crop producers, particularly those affected by disasters like flooding in California, have faced significant barriers to receiving aid.

“Barriers to assistance programs for our farmers and ranchers can hold back the recovery of rural economies after natural disasters,” said Rep. Panetta.  “This bipartisan legislation would ensure that producers who depend on agriculture for their livelihoods can access the resources they need to not only get by during times crisis but also to rebuild stronger.  This is a commonsense solution that will strengthen our agricultural safety net and the agriculture of our country.”

“Our farmers, ranchers, and producers work hard every day to feed and clothe our nation.  When disaster strikes, they should be able to access the important programs designed to protect them,” said Rep. Cammack.  “The AGI limitations set years ago have denied access for producers who truly need it, and the exemption for farms making 75 percent of their income from farming and farming-related practices is much-needed to bolster resilience. I’m glad to join my House and Senate colleagues in leading this effort to ensure fair access to these critical disaster programs.”

“As natural disasters increase in both scope and frequency, the federal government should reform and provide safeguards for local specialty crop producers. The Fair Access to Agriculture Disaster Programs Act does that by revising income limits that often act as barriers to accessing USDA programs. We should all want to make commonsense reforms that help the agriculture industry rebound and stay afloat after disaster strikes,” said Rep. Lofgren.

“From wildfires and drought damaging our farmland to storms flooding our fields, growing conditions for farmers in California and across the country are facing unprecedented impacts from natural disasters,” said Senator Padilla. “As we approach the Farm Bill expiration later this year, hundreds of thousands of farmers — including growers devastated by the 2023 Tropical Storm Hilary floods — are still counting on us to make things right. Our bipartisan, bicameral legislation would even the playing field for specialty crop growers hoping to access critical federal agriculture disaster programs.”

“North Carolina farmers are all too familiar with natural disasters and the barriers to access disaster relief programs,” said Senator Tillis. “I am proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation to expand access to critical disaster relief programs for farmers across the state and give them the tools to rebuild when disaster strikes.”

Specifically, the Fair Access to Agriculture Disaster Programs Act would:

• Exempt the AGI limitation for farms that get 75% of their income from farming or related farming practices (agri-tourism, direct-to-consumer marketing of agricultural products, sale of agricultural equipment owned by person or entity, and other agriculture-related activities, as determined by the Secretary of Agriculture).
• This would apply to the following disaster programs:
  • Emergency Assistance for Livestock, Honeybees, and Farm-Raised Fish Program (ELAP)
  • Livestock Forage Disaster Program (LFP)
  • Livestock Indemnity Program (LIP)
  • Tree Assistance Program (TAP)
  • Noninsured Crop Disaster Assistance Program (NAP)

The Fair Access to Agriculture Disaster Programs Act is endorsed by the Almond Alliance, American Honey Producers Association, Blue Diamond, California Aquaculture Association, California Farm Bureau, California Strawberry Commission, East Coast Shellfish Growers Association, Florida Fruit and Vegetable Association, International Fresh Produce Association, National Aquaculture Association, North Carolina Farm Bureau, Northwest Aquaculture Alliance, Specialty Crop Farm Bill Alliance, and Western Growers. 

“The Fair Access to Agriculture Disaster Programs Act is a critical step toward ensuring that fresh produce growers can access the economic relief they need when disaster strikes their operations,” said Cathy Burns, CEO, International Fresh Produce Association.  “By exempting the AGI limitation for these producers, this bill recognizes the unique financial realities of agriculture and strengthens the safety net for those who feed and nourish our communities nationwide.”

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