MIL USHOR-2b Engine

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Brett Guthrie (2nd District Kentucky)

Guthrie, House Republicans Take Action to Prevent Fraud and Hold Bad Actors Accountable 

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

As Congress considers President Trump’s $1.5 trillion request for Pentagon spending and SpaceX wins billions in Golden Dome contracts, Representatives Don Beyer (VA-08) and John Garamendi (CA-08) and Senators Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) and Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), co-chairs of the bicameral Nuclear Weapons and Arms Control Working Group, today led their colleagues in a letter to Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, demanding further information on the Trump administration’s proposed Golden Dome missile interceptor system. The nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO) recently estimated that Golden Dome could cost American taxpayers $1.2 trillion and deliver much less capability than advertised. Trump’s Department of Defense (DOD) rejected the accuracy of CBO’s estimate but has refused to share key information about Golden Dome with CBO, Congress, or the American people.

In the letter, the lawmakers wrote, “This is unacceptable. Before you spend one more taxpayer dollar on Golden Dome, DOD must share its plans and goals for the system. There is no reasonable justification for keeping the mission and number of interceptors for Golden Dome secret. It is one thing to withhold design details or performance specifications of certain systems, but it is quite another to withhold the entire system architecture that you expect Congress to approve and fund. Congress and the American public have a right to know what they are paying for.”

The lawmakers continued, “Transparency is particularly important when it appears, as it does here, that the system’s ultimate capability will fall far short of the original promises. On May 20, 2025, President Trump said that, with Golden Dome, ‘we will truly be completing the job that President Reagan started 40 years ago, forever ending the missile threat to the American homeland.’ According to CBO’s calculations, even a system that would cost $3 trillion would not meet that ambitious goal, which would need to be able to engage hundreds of missiles. If the Administration has not scaled back its goals for the system, the current official price tag is woefully unrealistic.”

Senators Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), and Representatives Jim McGovern (MA-02) and Bill Foster (IL-11) co-signed the letter.

The lawmakers requested answers by June 30, 2026, to questions including:

1. What is the intended purpose of Golden Dome? How many missiles (and of what types) is it being designed to intercept? What system architecture will be used?
2. How does the Administration plan to spend the proposed $185 billion on Golden Dome?
3. What is your 20-year estimated cost of Golden Dome?
4. Will the Administration propose a third missile defense interceptor site on the East Coast?
5. How does the Administration expect China and Russia to react to Golden Dome? How does the Administration plan to reconcile its arms control goals with these reactions?
6. What parts of your plans for Golden Dome do you expect to keep secret and what parts will you release to the public?

The full text of the letter is available here.

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

Current Red Tape in Medicare Advantage Plans Put Wheelchair Repairs on Hold for Months, Impacting Wheelchair Users’ Lives and Livelihoods

Bill Text (PDF)

WASHINGTON – Today, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Co-Chair of the Task Force on Aging and Families, alongside leadership of the Task Force on Aging and Families, Chair Matsui, Chair Schakowsky, and Co-Chair Dingell, unveiled the Facilitating Access to Service and Timely (FAST) Repairs for Wheelchairs Act, essential legislation to streamline wheelchair repairs by removing extra unnecessary, burdensome requirements for Medicare Advantage beneficiaries. The FAST Repairs for Wheelchairs Act aims to put an end to the months-long delays in wheelchair repairs that can often put wheelchair users’ lives on hold.

“I’m proud to introduce the FAST Repairs for Wheelchairs Act, legislation to solve for repair delays that diminish the quality of life for wheelchair users across the country,” said Rep. Pressley. “When a wheelchair breaks down, daily life is disrupted. My FAST Repairs for Wheelchairs Act would streamline wheelchair repair services and remove the undue burden caused by unnecessary barriers in Medicare Advantage plans. I’m grateful to my constituents and our disability justice advocates for informing this vital legislation.”

“No one should have their day derailed because a needed wheelchair repair is stuck in an insurance approval process,” said Congresswoman Matsui, Chair of the Task Force on Aging and Families. “When a wheelchair breaks, it can result in a loss of independence that should never be subject to unnecessary red tape. As co-chair of the Task Force on Aging and Families, I am proud to co-lead the FAST Repairs for Wheelchairs Act to bring Medicare Advantage in line with traditional Medicare so that people can get timely repairs with the dignity and urgency they deserve.”

“For millions of Americans, a wheelchair is essential to their independence, health, and ability to participate in daily life. Yet when it comes to wheelchair repairs, far too many Medicare Advantage beneficiaries are forced to endure unnecessary hurdles, leaving them waiting weeks or even months for critical fixes,” said Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky, Chair of the Task Force on Aging and Families. “Medicare Advantage insurers too often put profits ahead of patients, creating barriers that can leave people without the medically necessary equipment they rely on every day. This legislation would cut through that red tape and help ensure wheelchair users enrolled in Medicare Advantage can get timely repairs and maintain their independence and quality of life.”

“Millions of Americans rely on wheelchairs to lead independent lives. When a wheelchair breaks down, people should not be trapped in bureaucratic limbo waiting weeks or months for insurance to help with essential repairs,” said Congresswoman Dingell, Co-Chair of the Task Force on Aging and Families. “This legislation cuts unnecessary red tape and helps ensure people with Medicare Advantage plans can get the repairs they need quickly so that no one is left without the mobility and independence they depend on every day.”

More than 5.5 million people use wheelchairs in the United States. As insurance providers require wheelchairs to have a lifespan of five years, regular maintenance and repairs are inevitable. Studies show that more than 50 percent of wheelchairs break down within a six-month period, with average repair times of two to four weeks.  However, it is common for people to wait six months or longer for repairs—leaving wheelchair users with extremely limited mobility and often isolated at home for this unpredictable time period.

When an individual originally obtains their wheelchair, clinicians customize it to meet their specific medical needs, and the chair must receive prior authorization for approval from their insurance provider. However, unlike traditional Medicare, Medicare Advantage plans extend prior authorization requirements to every subsequent repair, including minor fixes, requiring approval from the insurance company for each repair even though the chair itself has already been approved. This process is redundant and imposes unnecessary administrative burdens that ultimately result in harmful repair delays.

As such, the FAST Repairs for Wheelchairs Act would:

• Remove prior authorization requirements from Medicare Advantage plans for maintenance and repairs to wheelchairs and other complex rehab technologies.
• Align Medicare Advantage plans with traditional Medicare, where prior authorization is generally not required for wheelchair repairs.

Full text of the bill is available here.

Joining Congresswoman Pressley and Congresswomen Matsui, Dingell, and Schakowsky as cosponsors of this legislation are Representatives Steve Cohen, Danny K. Davis, Robert Garcia, Steny Hoyer, Robin Kelly, Seth Moulton, Eleanor Holmes Norton, Rashida Tlaib, and Jill Tokuda.

The FAST Repairs for Wheelchairs Act was informed by impacted individuals and their lived experiences suffering from delays in wheelchair repairs. Rep. Pressley partnered with constituents in the Massachusetts 7th and disability justice advocates to draft this legislation and produce a solution to this critical issue.

The legislation is endorsed by American Association of People with Disabilities, Disability Law Center, Center for American Progress, United Spinal Association, Boston Center for Independent Living, MetroWest Center for Independent Living, Inc., Your Access Advocates, Easterseals Massachusetts, Health Law Advocates, Inc., Ascentria Care Alliance, Disability Policy Consortium, Caring Across Generations, Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation, Muscular Dystrophy Association, American Association on Health and Disability, Lakeshore Foundation, Team Gleason Foundation, Able South Carolina, Institute for Matching Person and Technology, Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund (DREDF), American Physical Therapy Association, Bay State Council of the Blind, Access Ready, Inc., The Arc of the United States, International Registry of Rehabilitation Technology Suppliers, The Viscardi Center, National Disability Rights Network, Ocean State Center for Independent Living, Dignity Alliance Massachusetts, RESNA, American Therapeutic Recreation Association, Association of Assistive Technology Act Programs, American, Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Association of Rehabilitation Nurses, National Council on Independent Living, Clinician Task Force, and the National Coalition for Assistive and Rehab Technology (NCART).

“Right now, disabled people have to wait weeks to months to get approval to be able to repair their wheelchairs and this keeps them from being able to have the freedom of mobility. The durable medical provider market continues to shrink due to the acquisitions of smaller local providers, making it difficult to obtain repair appointments, particularly in rural areas. This bill will make it easier for disabled people to get back to their everyday lives.” – Mia Ives-Rublee, Center for American Progress

“This bill is a much-needed first step towards fixing what’s broken in the wheelchair repair process,” said Steve Lieberman, Senior Director of Advocacy and Policy for United Spinal Association. “This common-sense measure will get rid of unnecessary bureaucratic delays that often last weeks.”

“Congresswoman Pressley’s bill is tremendously important. Lengthy delays in repairs to wheelchairs and other medical equipment– and that’s what prior authorizations can cause– endanger the health and compromise the independence of people with disabilities and seniors.” –Bill Henning, Boston Center for Independent Living

“As a wheelchair user, when my chair breaks, my life stops. I am not waiting on a luxury item, I am waiting on the ability to get out of bed, to work, to exist in my community. Prior authorization adds days and weeks to a process that already experiences serious delays. I have fought too hard for my independence to have it unravel because of paperwork delays and lack of technicians. Removing prior authorization is a necessary step toward protecting that independence.” – Destiny Maxam, Community Organizer and Wheelchair User at DPC (Disability Policy Consortium)

“Delaying wheelchair repairs is not just harmful, it’s expensive. For many individuals, a wheelchair is their primary form of mobility—their legs, and when it breaks, daily life comes to a halt. Individuals are unable to work, care for their families, or live independently. These disruptions often lead to preventable medical complications and costly hospitalizations that far exceed the cost of a timely repair. The FAST Repairs Act is a fiscally responsible solution that eliminates unnecessary red tape, reduces administrative burden, and ensures Medicare beneficiaries can maintain their health, independence, and economic stability.” – Kimberly Tissot, Able South Carolina

“Representative Pressley’s FAST Repairs for Wheelchairs Act will give practical relief to thousands of wheelchair users across the country who are left without mobility when it takes weeks to months to obtain wheelchair repairs and foreseeable maintenance. It makes no sense for someone who has already gotten prior authorization for a medically necessary wheelchair in the first place to have to go through the process all over again for something as simple as fixing a flat tire or changing a battery. Car owners would rebel in the face of such delays and wheelchairs are more personally critical than cars.” – Silvia Yee, Policy Director at Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund (DREDF)

“The Bay State Council of the Blind supports efforts that advance equity and inclusion across the disability community. We stand in solidarity with our partners and commend the leadership of Ayanna Pressley in advancing policies that uplift underserved communities.” – Nona Haroyan, Bay State Council of the Blind

When a mobility device such as the ones covered by this bill break down and require repairs, an individual’s independence is greatly impacted. Eliminating the need for prior authorizations takes will allow for repairs to be done more quickly.” – Beth Pinkham, Ocean State Center for Independent Living

“Mobility is a fundamental human right, yet for far too many people with disabilities and older adults, a broken wheelchair is not just a mechanical failure—it is a sentence of isolation. Dignity Alliance Massachusetts is proud to endorse Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley’s FAST Repairs for Wheelchairs Act, which addresses the unconscionable and unacceptable delays that currently leave individuals stranded for weeks or even months awaiting simple repairs. By mandating timely service standards and removing the bureaucratic hurdles that hinder independence, this legislation ensures that the equipment meant to provide freedom and the dignity of independence does not become a cage. We applaud Congresswoman Pressley’s leadership in treating wheelchair repair as the critical civil rights issue it is.” – Paul Lanzikos, Dignity Alliance Massachusetts

“The Clinician Task Force strongly supports legislation reducing the wait time for repairs on complex rehab technology equipment, that is depended upon by people with disabilities who use them every day of their lives. We are occupational and physical therapists who clearly see the negative consequences of delays on the lives of our clients.” – Tamara Kittelson, Clinician Task Force

“All consumers have the right to quick repairs, and they should not have to wait 7-21 days for paperwork to be approved.” – Wayne Grau, National Coalition for Assistive and Rehab Technology (NCART)

Rep. Pressley has been a long-time advocate for the disability community and has championed policies that promote disability justice.

• On May 14, 2026, Rep. Pressley, Co-Chair of the Reproductive Freedom Caucus, along with Senators Patty Murray (D-WA) and Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), reintroduced their Reproductive Health Care Accessibility Act, legislation to help women with disabilities—who face discrimination and extra barriers when seeking care—get better access to the timely, informed, and culturally competent reproductive health care they deserve.
• In May 2025, Rep. Pressley reintroduced a resolution demanding equitable access to reproductive and sexual healthcare for people with disabilities, and designating a day in May as “Disability Reproductive Equity Day.”
• In May 2025, at the Center for American Progress’ Disability Reproductive Equity Summit, Rep. Pressley delivered the keynote address on the importance of intersectional policymaking and affirming disability rights and reproductive rights as the human rights that they are.
• In May 2025, Rep. Pressley joined the Disability Justice Initiative at the Center for American Progress in kicking off their Disability Reproductive Equity Summit to develop an agenda for disability reproductive justice.

• On August 14, 2024, Rep. Pressley issued a statement applauding Biden-Harris Administration for finalizing its proposed rule to improve access to medical diagnostic equipment (MDE) for people with disabilities. The DOJ’s final rule followed an April letter by Rep. Pressley and 11 of her colleagues urging it to strengthen and finalize its proposed rule, and underscoring the need for health care facilities to have functional and accessible MDE for people with disabilities.
• On May 23, 2024, Rep. Pressley held a press conference alongside colleagues and reproductive justice and disability justice advocates to unveil the Disability Reproductive Equity Day Resolution.
• On May 2, 2024, Rep. Pressley issued a statement applauding the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) finalized rule that prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability. 
• On April 4, Rep. Pressley led her colleagues in urging the Department of Justice (DOJ) to strengthen and quickly finalize its proposed rule to improve access to medical diagnostic equipment (MDE) for people with disabilities.
• On December 12, 2023, Rep. Pressley wrote to the Biden-Harris Administration seeking data on the housing needs for aging adults, people with disabilities, and Medicaid beneficiaries.
• On September 29, 2022, Rep. Pressley and Rep. Cori Bush introduced the Reproductive Health Care Accessibility Act, legislation that would eliminate barriers and strengthen access to reproductive health care for people with disabilities.
• On June 25, 2022, Rep. Pressley applauded the passage of H.R. 2543, which included several key amendments championed by Rep. Pressley to advance disability and economic justice.
• On May 24, 2022, in a House Financial Services subcommittee hearing, Rep. Pressley discussed the crisis of Long COVID as a disability justice issue and outlined how the status quo has relegated disabled Americans—including those with Long COVID—to a second-class standard of living.
• On April 14, 2020, Rep. Pressley urged Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker to rescind the Crisis of Care standards that have disproportionately harmed communities of color and the disability community in Massachusetts.
• On March 29, 2022, in a historic committee hearing on Medicare for All, Rep. Pressley highlighted Medicare For All as a disability justice issue and questioned Ady Barkan, founder of Be A Hero and leading advocate for Medicare for All, about how tying health coverage to employment perpetuates deep inequities for people with disabilities.
• On February 25, 2021, Rep. Pressley, Rep. Katie Porter, and their colleagues introduced the Mental Health Justice Act to reduce violence against individuals with mental illness and disabilities.
• On March 30, 2021, she led her colleagues on a letter with 107 of their colleagues to President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris calling for an historic investment of $450 billion in home- and community-based services (HCBS) in the Build Back Better infrastructure package.
• On September 18, 2022, Rep. Pressley, Dr. Subini Ancy Annamma, and Villissa Thompson published an op-ed in Teen Vogue in which they called for an end to the policies and systemic injustice that result in the overcriminalization of Black girls with disabilities in schools.
• On July 29, 2020, Rep. Pressley, Rep. Ilhan Omar, and Senators Chris Murphy and Elizabeth Warren unveiled the Counseling Not Criminalization in Schools Act to end the over-policing of K-12 schools and stop the criminalization of students, including those with disabilities.
• In early 2020, she worked with advocates to challenge Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker’s crisis standards of care and release updated guidelines with input from the disability community.
• On October 11, 2019, Rep. Pressley and her colleagues introduced the Improving Access to Higher Education Act to help improve college access and completion for students with disabilities.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Paul A Gosar DDS (AZ-04)

Goodyear, Arizona — Congressman Paul A. Gosar, D.D.S. (AZ-09) issued the following statement announcing that Arizona’s bipartisan congressional delegation has submitted 250 copper pennies for inclusion in the Semiquincentennial Congressional Time Capsule, commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States.

“Our submission reflects the story of both Arizona and America.  Copper is one of Arizona’s historic Five C’s and helped build our state just as it helped build our Nation.  It powers our homes, strengthens our economy, supports our national defense, and remains one of America’s most important strategic minerals. These 250 copper pennies honor the generations of Americans whose hard work, sacrifice, and ingenuity made the United States the greatest force for freedom and opportunity in human history.

Two hundred and fifty years ago, brave patriots pledged their lives, fortunes, and sacred honor to establish a nation founded on liberty and self-government. These pennies serve as a simple but powerful reminder that America’s prosperity was built one citizen, one community, and one generation at a time. As we look toward the next 250 years, we remain committed to preserving the principles that made our Republic exceptional,” stated Congressman Paul Gosar.

As Dean of the Arizona Delegation, Congressman Gosar coordinated the effort and thanked every member of Arizona’s congressional delegation for supporting the submission.

“I am grateful to my colleagues in both parties for recognizing the significance of this historic milestone and supporting Arizona’s submission to the congressional time capsule. America’s 250th birthday belongs to every citizen, regardless of politics. I thank each member of Arizona’s delegation for helping ensure our state is represented in this once-in-a-generation celebration of American independence. Together, these 250 copper pennies honor our shared history, Arizona’s proud legacy as the Copper State, and the enduring promise of the American Dream,” Gosar concluded.

“There are few resources more ingrained in the foundation of our great state than copper. Arizona produces roughly seventy percent of the country’s copper output per year, which contributes substantially to our national economy and infrastructure with this cherished element. I cannot think of a better item to represent Arizona for years to come than a copper penny and am pleased to join the State Delegation in submitting it to the time capsule. It just makes cents,” added Representative Andy Biggs.

“The Semiquincentennial Time Capsule gives each state the opportunity to showcase what makes it great. It’s fitting that our delegation is contributing copper pennies, given Arizona’s strong and storied mining history. With new projects underway, Arizona will continue to lead our nation in extracting this critical resource,” stated Representative Eli Crane.

“Everyone who has the honor of growing up in Arizona knows the Five C’s: Copper, Cattle, Cotton, Citrus, and Climate. Copper isn’t just one of them; it built our state. It powered our economy, shaped our history, and still runs through the very heart of Arizona. What better way to honor State 48 on our nation’s 250^th birthday than to place a piece of that proud copper legacy into this time capsule,” noted Representative Abe Hamadeh.

“Copper is part of Arizona’s story and America’s story. This contribution honors our state’s mining heritage and the generations of Arizonans whose work helped build and power the nation,” stated Representative David Schweikert.

“As we approach America’s 250th anniversary, we have a responsibility to preserve the rich heritage of our beautiful state and the natural resources that have helped shape Arizona’s story. Copper is more than a resource, it is a symbol of Arizona’s history and a proud part of our Five C’s that have helped build our communities, fuel our economy, and define generations of Arizonans. I’m proud to join my Arizona colleagues in commemorating this historic milestone by contributing pennies made from Arizona copper to the congressional time capsule. This capsule will serve as a snapshot of our nation at this moment in history and will be opened on America’s 500th anniversary on July 4, 2276. It is a reminder that the legacy we build today will be carried forward for generations to come,” added Representative Juan Ciscomani.

“America’s 250th birthday is a celebration of the generations of Americans who served, built this country, and keep this democracy strong. Arizona has led the nation in copper production, powering our economy and strengthening our country. From the penny to advanced microelectronics, copper is central to Arizona’s past and future,” stated Senator Mark Kelly.  

Background:

Authorized by Congress and administered by the Architect of the Capitol, the Semiquincentennial Congressional Time Capsule will be sealed and preserved in the United States Capitol until July 4, 2276, when Americans celebrating the Nation’s 500th birthday will open it and reflect on the people, values, and achievements that shaped our era.

As Arizona’s official contribution, the delegation selected 250 copper pennies—one for each year of American independence. The pennies symbolize both the enduring strength of the American people and Arizona’s unique place in the American story. Copper is one of Arizona’s historic “Five C’s”—copper, cattle, cotton, citrus, and climate—which helped shape the state’s economy, culture, and development. Arizona remains one of the nation’s leading copper-producing states, supplying a mineral essential to modern infrastructure, manufacturing, energy production, and national defense.

Click here to read a copy of the bipartisan letter submitted by Congressman Gosar on behalf of the Arizona Congressional Delegation.

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

Washington, D.C. – June 4, 2026 – Today, Congressman Raul Ruiz, M.D. (CA-25) and Ranking Member of the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee Rep. Mark Takano (CA-39) held a press conference on the steps of the U.S. Capitol calling on House Members to sign the discharge petition for the Major Richard Star Act (H.R. 2102) – an effort to force House Leadership to bring the bill to the floor for a vote. This bill would end the so-called “wounded veteran tax,” an unjust financial penalty stripping combat-wounded veterans of benefits they need, deserve, and earned.

Under current law, veterans who were medically retired from service due to combat-related injuries, known as Chapter 61 disability retirees, face a dollar-for-dollar penalty: every dollar they receive in VA disability compensation is deducted from their military retired pay. More than 54,000 veterans are affected and losing an average of $1,200 per month. The Major Richard Star Act would eliminate this, allowing these combat-wounded servicemembers to receive both benefits in full.

The Major Richard Star Act commands overwhelming bipartisan support, with more than 330 House cosponsors spanning both parties. Despite this broad majority, the legislation has not received a floor vote – prompting Ruiz and Takano to take the rare step of filing a discharge petition to force House Leadership to act.

It is an outrage that our wounded warriors are experiencing a gross injustice. Veterans who were forced to medically retire are penalized and unable to receive both their disability and retirement benefits. The Major Richard Star Act is the solution. The discharge petition will force a vote and with 330 cosponsors it will pass. Our veterans can’t wait, sign the petition now. – Rep. Raul Ruiz, M.D. (CA-25), Lead Democratic Author, Major Richard Star Act

“Despite fulfilling their commitment and fighting for our protection, fifty-nine thousand medically retired veterans who were injured in combat are losing their benefits. Veterans have waited years for Congress to step up. The time is now. That is why I filed a discharge petition with Congressman Ruiz to finally force a vote on the House floor. No more delays. No more excuses.”– Rep. Mark Takano (CA-39), Ranking Member, House Veterans’ Affairs Committee

“Taking care of our veterans should be unanimous, and correcting the gross injustice faced by thousands of combat-injured veterans who are seeing their benefits drastically reduced should be simple. We are fighting relentlessly to get the bipartisan Major Richard Star Act brought to the floor for a vote and to deliver this win to veterans in New Hampshire and across the country. I joined my colleagues, veterans, and veterans service organizations today to say it loud and clear: We will use every tool possible to ensure our nation’s heroes receive the full benefits they earned, and we will not give up.”– Rep. Chris Pappas (NH-1)

“Retirement pay reflects years of service. Disability compensation reflects injury. These benefits serve different purposes and should not cancel one another. Combat-injured retirees fulfilled their obligations to this nation. Congress now has the opportunity to fulfill its obligation to them.”– Dr. Jerry Turner, U.S. Marine Corps Veteran, Beaumont, California

Background

The Major Richard Star Act (H.R. 2102) was introduced on March 14, 2025, by Rep. Gus Bilirakis (FL-12) and Rep. Raul Ruiz (CA-25) with 185 original cosponsors. It has since grown to more than 330 cosponsors – a sweeping bipartisan majority of the House.

The legislation eliminates the dollar-for-dollar offset against retired pay for Chapter 61 disability retirees with combat-related disabilities. It is endorsed by all leading Veteran Service Organizations throughout the country.

The bill is named in honor of Major Richard A. Star – a father, husband, and decorated Army combat veteran who served in Iraq and Afghanistan. Medically retired due to his combat-related injuries, Major Star was later diagnosed with Stage 4 colon cancer. Before he lost his battle on February 13, 2021, he made his wife Tonya promise to continue fighting alongside Members of Congress to get this bill passed and help the more than 50,000 families who would benefit from it. This legislation is a tribute to his courage and his enduring commitment to his fellow veterans.

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

WASHINGTON — Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08) led nine Members of Congress in sending a letter to Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-SD) Tuesday urging the Senate to reject President Trump’s nomination of Todd Blanche to serve as Attorney General, citing serious concerns regarding Blanche’s handling of matters related to Jeffrey Epstein and his network, his independence, and his fitness to lead the Department of Justice. The letter was signed by Representatives Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-AL), Danny K. Davis (IL-07), Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Donald S. Beyer Jr. (VA-08), Jesús G. “Chuy” García (IL-04), Dina Titus (NV-01), and Dan Goldman (NY-10).

In the letter, the Members write:

“For months, senior Trump Administration officials promised transparency regarding the Epstein files. Instead, under Mr. Blanche’s watch, the Department’s handling of those records became emblematic of dysfunction and secrecy. Vast numbers of records remained unavailable to the public. Documents were subjected to sweeping and often inexplicable redactions. Survivors and advocates were repeatedly denied answers they had long been promised. Most disturbingly, the Department’s release of records reportedly exposed victims’ names and identifying information, inflicting fresh harm on survivors who had already endured unimaginable abuse.”

The Members also point to Blanche’s conduct amid scrutiny surrounding the Department’s handling of the Epstein matter, writing:

“The concerns did not end there. Amid mounting scrutiny over the Department’s handling of the Epstein matter, Mr. Blanche personally met with Ghislaine Maxwell despite her conviction for sex trafficking and documented history of alleged perjury. Maxwell was later transferred to a minimum-security federal prison camp in Texas. At a time when reports continue to circulate regarding potential clemency or favorable treatment, these events raise serious and unavoidable questions about the Department’s judgment, priorities, and commitment to equal justice under the law.”

The Members conclude that Blanche lacks the independence, integrity, and judgment necessary to serve as Attorney General and urge the Senate to reject his nomination, writing that “the Senate has a constitutional responsibility to evaluate whether nominees possess the independence, integrity, and judgment necessary to faithfully execute the law.”

The full letter is available here.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Emanuel Cleaver II (5th District Missouri)

(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO), Ranking Member of the Financial Services Subcommittee on Housing & Insurance, released the following statement after the announcement of an agreement between the House of Representatives and the Senate to finalize the 21^st Century ROAD to Housing Act. The U.S. Senate is expected to pass the legislation this week, paving the way for consideration in the House of Representatives.

“As American families struggle with our national housing affordability crisis, I am thrilled that the House and the Senate, Republicans and Democrats, have come together to reach a compromise that will enable the passage of historic and desperately needed housing reforms. 

“The 21^st Century ROAD to Housing Act has been years in the making. It modernizes federal housing programs like the Rural Housing Service and the HOME program; cuts through harmful red tape that has limited the development of innovative and manufactured housing; and incentivizes public-private partnerships that will lead to the construction of affordable housing in communities nationwide.

“Not only is this legislation important in our work to lower housing costs for working-class families, but it should be an example of what lawmakers can accomplish when we make the conscious decision to work together, rather than tear each other apart. As the Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Housing, I am proud of the final product we have today—which includes solutions provided by Republicans, Democrats, and lawmakers from every end of the political spectrum.

“As Congress prepares to send this historic housing package to the president’s desk, it is my hope that the collaborative process that got us to this point will be a blueprint to solving other challenges facing the country today.”

The 21^st Century ROAD to Housing Act includes numerous provisions sponsored by Ranking Member Cleaver, including:

• Innovation Fund: The innovation fund is a section first proposed in the American Housingand Economic Mobility Act, introduced by Ranking Member Cleaver, Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Senator Raphael Warnock (D-GA) and Representative Ayanna Pressley (D-MA). This section authorizes a seven-year $200 million annual competitive grant program for jurisdictions pursuing innovative policies, interventions, or programs for increasing housing supply. 
• HOME Reform Act: Introduced by Ranking Member Cleaver and Chairman Flood (R-NE), the legislation is the most significant reform to the HOME Investment Partnerships Program since authorization in 1990. The legislation includes provisions introduced by Representative Joyce Beatty (D-OH) and would modernize and update the federal government’s largest block grant program dedicated exclusively to creating and preserving affordable housing for low-income households. 
• Rural Housing Service Program Improvements: The legislation includes sections of the Rural Housing Service Reform Act, introduced by Ranking Member Cleaver and Representative Zach Nunn (R-IA), representing the most significant US Department of Agriculture Rural Housing Service reforms in decades. The included sections would allow for greater use of the Rural Housing Service Section 504 Home Repair Program, ensure continued rental assistance for tenants in properties with expiring protections, and make it easier for nonprofits to buy and preserve housing.
• Choice in Affordable Housing Act: The legislation includes sections of the Choice in Affordable Housing Act, introduced by Ranking Member Cleaver and Representative Mike Lawler (R-NY), representing a major reform to HUD’s Section 8 program. The included sections would streamline inspections, increase access to housing for voucher holders, and encourage private landlord participation. 
• Manufactured Housing Innovations: The legislation includes the Housing Supply Expansion Act of 2025, introduced by Rep. Cleaver and Rep. Rose (R-TN), which would update the federal definition of manufactured housing and allow for more efficient and cost-effective designs.
• HUD Accountability Act: Introduced by Ranking Member Cleaver and Rep. Lawler (R-NY), the HUD Accountability Act requires the Secretary of HUD to testify on an annual basis before Congress.

 

Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri’s Fifth Congressional District, which includes Kansas City, Independence, Lee’s Summit, Raytown, Grandview, Sugar Creek, Greenwood, Blue Springs, North Kansas City, Gladstone, and Claycomo. He is a member of the exclusive House Financial Services Committee and Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Randy Weber (14th District of Texas)

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Randy Weber (TX-14)  introduced H.R. 9325, the Lone Star Coastal National Recreation Area Act, legislation to establish the Lone Star Coastal National Recreation Area on the Upper Texas Gulf Coast. The measure would expand outdoor recreation opportunities, support conservation and coastal resilience, and help preserve the natural, cultural, and economic resources that make the Upper Texas Gulf Coast unique.

The proposed recreation area would span portions of Jefferson, Chambers, Galveston, Brazoria, and Matagorda Counties along the Upper Texas Gulf Coast. Home to more than five million Texans, the region includes some of the nation’s most treasured coastal resources and recreation areas.

“The Texas Gulf Coast is unlike anywhere else in America,” said Congressman Weber. “Whether it’s fishing in our bays, watching wildlife along the coast, or simply spending time outdoors with family, generations of Texans have made memories here. The Upper Texas Coast is one of God’s greatest blessings to our state, and we have a responsibility to be good stewards of it. This legislation helps ensure future generations can experience and enjoy everything this special part of Texas has to offer while keeping decisions in the hands of local landowners who know this coast best.”

The Lone Star Coastal National Recreation Area Act would:

• Establish the Lone Star Coastal National Recreation Area along the Upper Texas Gulf Coast.
• Keep local leadership, voluntary participation, while avoiding new federal regulatory authority.
• Expand opportunities for outdoor recreation, public access, tourism, and heritage-based economic development.
• Support conservation, coastal resilience, and stewardship of the region’s nationally significant natural and cultural resources.
• Encourage coordination among local governments, land owners, conservation organizations, and other regional partners.

“As a Congressman representing the Houston area, I proudly co-sponsored the Lone Star Coastal Recreation Area Act,” said Congressman Hunt (TX-38). “I commend Rep. Weber and local partners for their unwavering commitment to ensuring Texas’s Gulf Coast is equipped with the resources necessary for thriving fishing, coastal communities, and energy infrastructure. Legislation like this secures Texas’s position as the leading state in national economic development.”

“The great State of Texas is home to one of the country’s most important coastal landscapes,” said Congressman Nehls (TX-22). “I’m proud to cosponsor my friend, Congressman Weber’s, legislation to strengthen and expand public access to the Upper Texas Coast for outdoor recreation and tourism on our waterfronts. I will always support enhancing our local economies and recreational resources in our communities.”

“For more than fifteen years, communities across the Upper Texas Coast including my home county of Brazoria, have worked together to build a shared vision for the future of this extraordinary region,” said J.P. Bryan, Chair, Lone Star Coastal Alliance. “By establishing the Lone Star Coastal National Recreation Area, this legislation creates a framework to elevate the coast’s extraordinary natural, cultural, and recreational assets while supporting jobs, tourism, outdoor recreation, and economic opportunity across the five-county region. This legislation reflects the best of Texas, local leadership, strong partnerships, and a commitment to leaving something meaningful for future generations.”

“The Lone Star Coastal National Recreation Area is a locally driven initiative that brings together communities, land managers, businesses, and conservation partners around a shared vision for the Upper Texas Coast,” said County Judge Jeff Branick, Jefferson County. “The legislation respects private property rights, maintains local control, and creates new opportunities to expand public access, support outdoor recreation, and strengthen coastal economies. We are pleased to support this important milestone and look forward to continued collaboration as the effort moves forward.”

“The Lone Star Coastal National Recreation Area represents a unique opportunity to protect and celebrate one of America’s most important coastal landscapes while maintaining local leadership and voluntary participation,” said Bill Balboa, Executive Director, Matagorda Bay Foundation. “By connecting existing public lands, communities, and conservation partners, this legislation will strengthen stewardship, expand public access, and support the long-term health of the Upper Texas Coast. The Matagorda Bay Foundation is proud to support this collaborative effort and its vision for future generations.”

“The Upper Texas Gulf Coast’s marshes, wetlands, and barrier islands provide essential natural infrastructure that helps reduce storm impacts and complements the significant investments being made in coastal protection and flood risk reduction,” said Coalter Baker, Executive Director, Gulf Coast Protection District. “The Lone Star Coastal National Recreation Area advances a common-sense, Texas-led approach that strengthens and sustains these natural systems while supporting recreation, tourism, conservation, and resilient coastal communities.”

“As a 5th generation landowner and rancher on the Upper Texas Gulf Coast, I appreciate that the Lone Star Coastal National Recreation Area is built on voluntary participation, local leadership, and respect for private property rights,” said Loy Sneary, Sneary Cattle, LLC. “This initiative recognizes that working lands, conservation, recreation, and economic opportunity can all coexist and strengthen one another. It offers a practical, collaborative approach to preserving the character and heritage of the Texas coast while creating new opportunities for future generations.”

Original Co-sponsors: Reps. Brian Babin (TX-36), Wesley Hunt (TX-38), and Troy Nehls (TX-22).

This bill has been referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Andy Harris (MD-01)

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Andy Harris, M.D. (MD-01) today applauded the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) for awarding $2,715,203 to Salisbury-based AKYSO Therapeutics LLC to continue research on a new treatment for opioid use disorder.

Statement from Congressman Harris:

“As a physician, I’ve seen how difficult opioid addiction is to overcome and the impact it has on patients, families, and loved ones. This research could help more patients stay in treatment, giving them a better chance at recovery. I thank the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the National Institutes of Health, and the National Institute on Drug Abuse for supporting this research, and I’m proud to see it taking place in Maryland’s First District.”

For media inquiries, please contact Michella Carter at Michella.Carter@mail.house.gov

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Alma Adams (12th District of North Carolina)

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Alma S. Adams, Ph.D. (NC-12), and Congresswoman Ashley Hinson (R-IA-02) successfully secured the inclusion of a provision providing technical assistance for stillbirth prevention in the Fiscal Year 2027 Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations bill.

The provision secures $1,000,000 for Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) to provide ongoing assistance to support states’ stillbirth prevention activities, such as the dissemination of stillbirth screening resources and educational prevention tools.

It will also direct HRSA to provide the Appropriations Committee with a report on what steps the agency is taking to assist states with stillbirth prevention efforts and what the agency needs to provide that support. 

“Despite advances in medical technology and federal recognition around this issue, the rate of stillbirth is still high in the United States, and the risk doubles for Black women,” said Congresswoman Adams. “I am proud to see continued progress being made in Congress to combat stillbirth and the Black maternal health crisis. While stillbirth prevention remains under-funded and under-researched, every step forward is a victory for mothers and children in North Carolina and across the country.”

“My stillbirth prevention bill becoming law in 2024 was a major step forward, but our work is far from finished,” said Congresswoman Hinson. “That’s why I fought to secure targeted funding in this year’s Labor-HHS funding bill to help support states’ stillbirth prevention efforts and provide additional resources to prevent these heartbreaking losses. Every family deserves the chance to bring home a healthy baby, and I will continue fighting for policies that strengthen families, save lives, and support all women.”

Two years ago, Congresswomen Adams and Hinson, alongside Senator Jeff Merkley (D-OR), passed the Maternal and Child Health Stillbirth Prevention Act into law under President Biden. The act clarifies that current funding through the Maternal and Child Health (MCH) Services Block Grant can be used for stillbirth prevention activities, expanding what resources state health departments and community programs were able to access. The new provision in the 2027 appropriations package builds on that foundation by explicitly directing dedicated federal funding and technical assistance in support of stillbirth prevention efforts.

Still, an average of 58 babies are stillborn in the United States every day, and a predicted 25 percent of stillbirths are preventable, underscoring the need for greater national attention, federal support, and evolving standards of care for expectant mothers.

The stillbirth prevention provision can be found on page 49 of the Departments of Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill Report for 2027.