MIL USHOR-2b Engine

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Haley Stevens (MI-11)

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, ahead of the College Football Playoff National Championship on Monday, Reps. Haley Stevens (D-MI) and Michael Baumgartner (R-WA) urged National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) President Charlie Baker to limit the emergence of private equity in college sports. In the bipartisan letter, Stevens and Baumgartner are seeking deeper insight into the NCAA’s decision-making and enforcement mechanisms to prevent deals that sell college athletics programs to the highest bidders and keep universities accountable to their students, fans, athletes, and communities.

Reports indicate that the Big Ten Conference, the Big 12 Conference, and the University of Utah are exploring selling portions of their athletics revenue streams to outside investors. Similarly, the SEC, the University of Notre Dame, and Florida State University have all reported outreach from private equity investors regarding their athletics programs.

“College sports are a uniquely American tradition that have provided invaluable experiences for generations of college athletes, students, and fans,” wrote Stevens and Baumgartner. “As the people’s representatives, we have a responsibility to ensure that the integrity of universities and college sports is preserved for future generations of Americans, not sacrificed for short-term financial gain — especially where outside investors may gain leverage over decisions that should remain accountable to university communities.”
 

In their letter, Stevens and Baumgartner are seeking answers to the following:

1. What private equity deal structures (e.g., revenue-participation, equity-like interests, athletic facility ownership, debt with covenants, liens/security interests in media rights) has the NCAA observed being considered or pursued by member universities or conferences?

2. What specific contractual terms would the NCAA view as creating “de facto control” or unacceptable conflicts of interest (e.g., board seats, veto rights, step-in rights, approval rights over budgets, approval rights over scheduling, approval rights over realignment, or approval rights over athlete-related policies)?

3. Has the NCAA considered developing enforcement mechanisms to investigate and prevent instances of “de facto control” or unacceptable conflicts of interests at member universities?

4. What risks does the NCAA assess that these arrangements pose for Title IX compliance and non-revenue sports?

5. What disclosure requirements or transparency standards does the NCAA currently impose—or plan to impose—so athletes, students, and the public can understand the financial and governance implications of these agreements?

6. What policies does the NCAA have (or plan to adopt) to require disclosure of beneficial ownership and foreign government–linked participation (including sovereign wealth funds and state-backed entities), and what safeguards would apply where outside investors seek governance rights, revenue participation, or access to sensitive institutional or athlete information?

7. Has the NCAA provided guidance to members regarding tax-exempt, private benefit, or Unrelated Business Income Tax risks associated with private equity participation in athletics revenues, and has the NCAA consulted the Treasury Department on these issues?

In December, Stevens sent a letter to, and later met with, Big Ten Conference Commissioner Tony Petitti about a reported investment deal between the Big Ten and UC Investments, and warned that deals of this nature could open the door for private investment in college sports.

The Members gave President Baker until February 15 to respond. The full letter can be found here.
 

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

WASHINGTON — After four years of Democrat open border chaos, the American people demanded a change. One year later, the border is secure, enforcement is sustained, and federal law enforcement officers are once again empowered to do their jobs. Those results reflect the work of brave ICE agents on the ground — bolstered by the resources Congress delivered.

ENFORCEMENT RESULTS ONE YEAR LATER

Sustained deterrence and enforcement have held for a full year:

• Border crossings down 93% year-over-year.
• For seven consecutive months, from May to November, ZERO illegal aliens were released into the country.
• 2025 marked the first time in 50 years the U.S. saw negative net migration.
• Fiscal Year 2026 recorded the lowest start to any fiscal year on record.
• 130,000+ feet of temporary barriers deployed to secure critical gaps.

DEPORTATIONS AND ARRESTS: REMOVING THE WORST OF THE WORST

With enforcement capacity restored, DHS is detaining and removing criminal illegal aliens nationwide.

LOCATING UNACCOMPANIED CHILDREN

Under President Trump, DHS and the Department of Health and Human Services have located 129,143 unaccompanied children lost under the Biden administration.

ICE RECRUITMENT SHATTERS EXPECTATIONS

When Washington backs law enforcement, Americans answer the call.

ICE recruitment results:

• 220,000+ applications from Americans seeking to serve.
• 12,000+ officers and agents hired in less than one year.
• Original hiring goal of 10,000 surpassed ahead of schedule.
• ICE staffing more than doubled, from 10,000 to 22,000 officers and agents.

INCREASED ATTACKS ON ICE OFFICERS

Years of reckless rhetoric and weak enforcement policies have had real consequences for the men and women protecting American communities. 

ICE law enforcement now faces:

• 1,300% increase in assaults against officers.
• 3,200% increase in vehicle attacks.
• 8,000% increase in death threats.

REMINDER: THE WORKING FAMILIES TAX CUTS DELIVERED REAL SUPPORT FOR LAW AND BORDER ENFORCEMENT

Funding included:

• $150+ billion to secure the border and deport illegal aliens.
• $45 billion to expand ICE detention capacity.
• $46 billion to complete border barrier construction, including 701 miles of primary wall and 1,670 miles of additional river, secondary, and vehicle barriers.
• $12 billion to hire:
• 10,000 new ICE personnel
• 5,000 Customs officers
• 3,000 Border Patrol agents
• 1,000 criminal investigators
• $10,000 bonuses for ICE and Border Patrol agents.
• $1.2 billion to hire 200 immigration judges and expand courtroom capacity.
• $14.4 billion for air and ground transportation.
• Sufficient to support at least 1 million removals per year.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Levin (CA-49)

January 15, 2026

Washington, D.C.—Today, Rep. Mike Levin (CA-49) and Rep. August Pfluger (TX- 11) announced they sent a bipartisan letter to Department of Energy (DOE) Secretary Chris Wright urging him to establish a safe, effective, and long-term management program for spent nuclear fuel. The letter was sent ahead of DOE’s anticipated release of a new report that will recommend an updated national policy on spent nuclear fuel.

“As DOE develops a recommended national policy on spent nuclear fuel and high-level nuclear waste management, we encourage you to take an important step to re-establish a single-purpose office to manage the spent nuclear fuel program, outside of the Office of Nuclear Energy and with a direct reporting relationship to your office. This is consistent with existing law and will help ensure the priorities for restoring an active nuclear waste management program remain in focus,” reads the letter.

“The United States has the technical capabilities to be successful in this endeavor, but we must break the current impasse over nuclear waste and develop a workable solution that encourages state collaboration,” continues the letter.

Since entering Congress in 2019, Rep. Levin has secured over $148 million for the safe removal and management of the nation’s spent nuclear fuel, including at the San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station (SONGS). Rep. Levin has also introduced the bipartisan Nuclear Waste Administration Act of 2024, which would modernize our country’s nuclear waste management program by establishing an independent Nuclear Waste Administration to manage the country’s nuclear waste. The safe management and removal of spent nuclear fuel out of SONGS remains a top priority for Rep. Levin.

Click here or see below for the full letter:

Dear Secretary Wright:

As the Department of Energy (DOE) develops a recommended national policy for the

management of spent nuclear fuel (SNF) and high-level nuclear waste (HLW), as directed in the Executive Order Reinvigorating the Nuclear Industrial Base, we write to urge you to establish a safe, effective, long-term management program for nuclear waste.

We appreciate your support for the continued collaborative discussions on consolidated storage and your recognition of the importance of an opt-in approach for siting nuclear waste facilities. We hope to work with you to modernize the nuclear waste management program, including developing policies and governance structures that encourage durable state and local collaboration. We believe this work will strongly support the Administration’s goal to expand the United States’ nuclear energy capacity.

Under the Nuclear Waste Policy Act (NWPA), DOE is responsible for siting, constructing, and operating a permanent repository, subject to Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) licensing and regulatory authority. The federal government—including Congress—has been unable to fulfill these obligations for the last decade. As a result, more than 90,000 metric tons of spent nuclear fuel remain stored at nuclear power plants across the country, costing taxpayers billions of dollars. Moreover, the long-standing political—not technical—impasse has left communities with decommissioned nuclear plants saddled with long-term spent fuel storage—limiting prospects for economic redevelopment.

DOE estimates a remaining financial liability between $38.6 billion and $44.3 billion, in addition to the $12.2 billion already paid, for commercial SNF^[1], and $23 billion for the DOE’s own legacy HLW and SNF.^[2] These liabilities are paid with taxpayer dollars and will continue to grow without decisive action to re-establish a workable nuclear waste program. With the growing prospects of massive nuclear energy growth, the increasing use of new fuel forms and technologies, and the economic needs of communities across the nation, we must take steps to restore and update our national nuclear waste management policy.

We recognize that legislative action will likely be necessary to restore a workable, long-term spent fuel management program, and we stand ready to work in Congress and with the Administration to achieve this.

In the meantime, as DOE develops a recommended national policy on SNF and HLW

management, we encourage you to take an important step to re-establish a single-purpose office to manage the spent nuclear fuel program, outside of the Office of Nuclear Energy and with a direct reporting relationship to your office. This is consistent with existing law and will help ensure the priorities for restoring an active nuclear waste management program remain in focus.

The United States has the technical capabilities to be successful in this endeavor, but we must break the current impasse over nuclear waste and develop a workable solution that encourages state collaboration.

We appreciate your consideration of our recommendation and look forward to working with you to advance administrative and legislative solutions to stop wasting taxpayer dollars and fulfill the federal government’s responsibility to manage spent nuclear fuel.

Sincerely,

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Riley Moore (WV-02)

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Riley M. Moore (R-WV) introduced the Jumpstart Savings Act, today. This important legislation will help Americans save tax-free for careers in the trades, skilled labor, and apprenticeship-based professions while strengthening the nation’s workforce as the United States rebuilds its manufacturing and industrial base.

The Jumpstart Savings Act establishes tax-advantaged savings accounts modeled after 529 college savings plans. These accounts allow individuals and families to save for apprenticeship programs, trade certifications, tools, equipment, and small business startup costs associated with skilled professions.

The manufacturing sector is projected to need 3.8 million new workers by 2033, with nearly half of those positions expected to go unfilled due to a lack of training. The average startup cost for a small business in the trades can exceed $100,000, creating a significant barrier to entry for many Americans seeking high-paying, in-demand jobs. By aligning tax policy with workforce development, this legislation helps remove those barriers and expands access to skilled careers.

The bill authorizes states to administer Jumpstart Savings programs and requires program administrators to report contributions, distributions, and account activity to both account holders and the Internal Revenue Service.

BACKGROUND: Proven Success in West Virginia

Congressman Moore previously championed a similar initiative at the state level while serving as West Virginia State Treasurer. Drawing on his own experience working as a welder, Moore authored and successfully implemented the West Virginia Jumpstart Savings Program, the first state-level tax-advantaged savings program designed to help residents save for tools, equipment, certifications, licensure, apprenticeship expenses, and business startup costs related to skilled trades and technical occupations.

The program was passed unanimously by the West Virginia Legislature and signed into law, with strong adoption across multiple industries. 

Permitted Uses of Jumpstart Funds: 

Under the Jumpstart Savings Act, qualified expenses include:

– Costs necessary to start and operate a small business related to the specific trade or occupation

– Replacement of tools and equipment essential to the business

– Expenses associated with Department of Labor-registered apprenticeship programs

– Tuition, books, fees, and required equipment for associate degree or certification programs at community and technical colleges

– Certification and licensure fees required to enter a trade or occupation

-529 account savings can be rolled into Jumpstart Savings accounts

Congressman Riley M. Moore released the following statement:

“Too many hardworking Americans are locked out of the trades not because they lack skill or work ethic, but because the upfront costs are simply too high. I experienced this firsthand working as a welder—tools, equipment, certifications, and startup expenses add up fast. 

The Jumpstart Savings Act helps workers overcome those barriers by giving them a tax-free option to save, start a business, and build a career in the trades. This is about restoring opportunities, strengthening our workforce, and making sure the United States has the skilled labor it needs to usher in America’s Golden Age.”

Joining Congressman Riley M. Moore on this resolution are the following members of Congress: Representatives Michael Rulli (OH-06), Ashley Hinson (IA-02), Barry Moore (AL-01), and Craig Goldman (TX-12).

“The Jump Start Savings Act encourages working Americans to save tax-free for the tools, trucks, and training they need to succeed. By supporting those pursuing good-paying union and trades jobs, we are reminding the next generation that there are more paths to success than just through a four-year college. This bill is about dignity of work, growing American manufacturing, and making sure Americans are equipped to earn a great living with their hands without drowning in debt” Congressman Michael Rulli (OH-06) said.

“The average startup cost for a small business in the trades is $100,000. I’m proud to team up with Riley Moore to create Jumpstart Savings — so working Americans pursuing the trades can afford real start-up costs of building a career, like tools and equipment, licenses, and apprenticeship expenses. I’ll keep working to expand pathways into good-paying jobs without forcing people to borrow their way there” Congresswoman Ashley Hinson (IA-02) said. 

Organizations that support this resolution are the following: International Brotherhood of Teamsters, Associated Builders and Contractors, and The Heritage Foundation.

“Jump Start Accounts would be a powerful and tax-free tool for individuals to more easily pursue apprenticeships and careers in Teamsters-represented industries” said Teamsters General President Sean M. O’Brien. “The Teamsters commend Representative Moore for his support for the millions of Americans who choose paths outside of four-year colleges.”

“The Jumpstart program is a forward-looking investment in America’s workforce,” said Kristen Swearingen, Vice President of Government Affairs at Associated Builders and Contractors. “By giving individuals, a tax-advantaged way to save for apprenticeships, certifications, tools and trade education, this bill removes financial barriers and expands access to rewarding careers in construction and the skilled trades. This legislation empowers workers, strengthens local economies and helps ensure we have the upskilled workforce needed to build and maintain our communities.”

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jared Huffman Representing the 2nd District of California

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Gus Bilirakis (FL-12)

Washington, D.C. – Today, Representatives Gus Bilirakis (R-FL), Scott Peters (D-CA), Marc Veasey (D-TX), Troy Balderson (R-OH), Kevin Mullin (D-CA), Mike Carey (R-OH), Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA), and Maria Elvira Salazar (R-FL) introduced the Genomic Answers for Children’s Health Act, a bill to clarify that children enrolled in Medicaid who have a suspected rare disease or genetic disorder can access genomic sequencing, a diagnostic tool that has quickly become the standard of care, to help get answers more quickly.

“The Genomic Answers for Children’s Health Act takes an important step toward improving outcomes for children facing rare, complex, and often undiagnosed medical conditions,” said Rep. Bilirakis. “For too many families, the search for answers can take years-often involving countless tests, ongoing uncertainty, and significant emotional and financial strain. This legislation clarifies access to advanced genomic sequencing and research tools that can lead to earlier diagnoses, more targeted treatments, and better care for children with rare diseases. This legislation also continues important momentum started by several states, including my home state of Florida, which passed the groundbreaking Sunshine Genetics Act last year.”

Background:

More than 30 million Americans live with a rare disease, and over half are children. For many families, the search for a diagnosis-often called the “diagnostic odyssey”-can take 4 to 8 years, involve multiple misdiagnoses, numerous tests that do not yield the needed answers, and cost thousands of dollars in additional health care expenses. Whole genome sequencing and whole exome sequencing can dramatically shorten this process and provide patients with answers in days or weeks to improve health outcomes and reduce costs.

The legislation clarifies that genomic sequencing is covered under Medicaid’s Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment (EPSDT) benefit for eligible children in both inpatient and outpatient settings and directs states to implement an inpatient diagnosis-related group add-on payment to support access in hospital settings. Studies show that genomic sequencing is not only clinically effective, but also cost-efficient in certain cases, and major medical organizations recommend its use for pediatric patients with suspected rare diseases or undiagnosed conditions.

The Genomic Answers for Children’s Health Act was also inspired, in part by  Project Baby Bear, led by Rady Children’s Hospital in San Diego from 2018 to 2020. The study found that the use of these rapid diagnostic tests to help patients get treated more quickly can save lives and thousands of dollars in unnecessary health care costs per patient. Project Baby Bear’s success prompted other states to follow suit and begin their own pilot programs: Project Baby Manatee in Florida, Project Baby Deer in Michigan, and Project Baby Badger in Wisconsin.

“San Diego is home to groundbreaking scientific innovations, especially in genomics, which helps diagnose and treat some of the world’s most pressing diseases,” said Rep. Peters. “It’s hard enough for parents and families to face an unknown medical future for a young child and they should have access to every available diagnostic tool. Medicaid coverage for whole genome sequencing will allow doctors to better target treatments and improve children’s lives. I will continue to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to turn innovation into real results for patients.”

“Too many families spend years searching for answers while their child’s condition worsens,” said Rep. Veasey. “The Genomic Answers for Children’s Health Act requires Medicaid to cover whole genome and whole exome sequencing to ensure children and their families can receive accurate and timely diagnoses. This bill is about empowering families with the hope, clarity, and tools necessary to take charge of their child’s health.”

“For families of children with rare and undiagnosed conditions, there are often more questions than answers. Genetic and genomic testing gives physicians the tools to properly diagnose and treat sooner. The Genomic Answers for Children’s Act removes barriers so more children can access this life-changing diagnostic technology and begin receiving the treatment they need,” said Rep. Balderson

“I’m proud to co-lead the Genomic Answers for Children’s Health Act because far too many children with rare diseases wait years for a diagnosis. With millions of kids affected by conditions that are often genetic and hard to identify, this bill helps families get answers sooner so children can receive the right care at the right time. Earlier clarity can make all the difference for a child’s health and a family’s peace of mind,” said Rep. Mullin.

“I’m proud to support the Genomic Answers for Children’s Health Act, which will allow more children across our nation to access this powerful tool, providing them and their families with the more accurate diagnosis they need and deserve,” said Rep. Salazar. “Genomic sequencing is revolutionizing the way we approach healthcare. In my district, Nicklaus Children’s Hospital uses it as a core component of its Pharmacogenomics Program.”

This bill is endorsed by: Rady Children’s Hospital, National Society of Genetic Counselors, Ambry Genetics, Avery’s Hope, Firefly Fund, Histiocytosis Association, NW Rare Disease Coalition, Born a Hero Research Foundation, Rare Rising, Children’s Minnesota, Baylor Genetics, American Clinical Laboratory Association, Michigan Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics (MI AAP), Genome Medical, MI Rare Alliance, The Bonnell Foundation, Bronson Children’s Hospital, Aimed Alliance, KIF1A.org, CureLGMD2i, PWSA|USA, Child Neurology Foundation, Michigan Hospital Association, and Genomic Answers for Children’s Health Alliance.

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

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Randy Weber (TX-14) led a bipartisan letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio urging the U.S. Department of State to continue publicly condemning the Iranian regime’s violent repression of peaceful protesters following reports of lethal force, mass arrests, and intimidation of civilians.

The letter raises particular concerns over reports that Iranian authorities have escalated their crackdown by targeting civilian infrastructure, including hospitals and medical facilities, and denying injured protesters access to urgent medical care, actions that constitute serious violations of international humanitarian and human rights law.

In the letter to Secretary Rubio, the lawmakers wrote:

“The Iranian people have made clear their demand for a secular, democratic, non-nuclear republic grounded in political pluralism and respect for human dignity. Protesters have also explicitly rejected all forms of authoritarian rule, whether Iran’s former monarchy dictatorship or its current theocratic system, and seek the right to determine their own future. Recent international reactions against the regime’s brutalities underscore the urgent global concern over continued violence against civilians and abuses of power in Iran.”

The letter calls on the Department of State to maintain a strong, public posture condemning the regime’s abuses and to reaffirm America’s commitment to universal human rights and solidarity with the Iranian people.

This letter was signed by 59 Members of Congress.

“The Iranian people have made it unmistakably clear that they reject this regime and the system of repression it has imposed on them,” said Rep. Weber. “From mass arrests to targeting hospitals, the regime has shown it will use any means to silence political dissent. The United States must continue to condemn these abuses and stand with the Iranian people as they demand the right to determine their own future.”

Read more from the Washington Reporter here.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman John Moolenaar (4th District of Michigan)

Headline: Moolenaar Highlights Michigan Infrastructure Priorities

Today, Congressman John Moolenaar testified in front of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee to advocate for key infrastructure priorities impacting Michigan.

“Infrastructure projects are critical to public safety, economic growth, and the long-term resilience of our communities,” said Moolenaar. “I appreciate the Committee’s attention to these Michigan priorities, and I will keep working to ensure Michigan’s Second Congressional District receives the support it needs.” 

The testimony can be found here. Moolenaar highlighted the need for investment in aviation infrastructure at the Gerald R. Ford International Airport, including replacement of the aging air traffic control tower to improve safety and support future expansion. He also stressed the importance of expediting FEMA funding to complete restoration of the Midland Center for the Arts following the 2020 dam failures, allowing the community to fully reopen this vital cultural hub. Additionally, Moolenaar emphasized continued support for the Army Corps of Engineers Tittabawassee River Watershed study to advance long-term flood mitigation solutions for mid-Michigan communities. 

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | Contact: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165

Congress has made steady progress towards full-year government funding. In November, President Trump signed the first three appropriations bills into law. Building off that momentum, the U.S. House of Representatives passed three more appropriations bills last Thursday. Following that big win, the Appropriations Committee took another step in moving full-year funding measures forward by introducing two more bills over the weekend.

As Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee, I am of course very proud to see the progress we are making. We are giving policy force, focusing on our priorities, and implementing the mandate of the American people. Through these bills, we are advancing President Trump’s golden age and ensuring the government remains open and working for the taxpayers.

However, one of the most significant achievements of the appropriations bills, which are often not talked about enough, is the delivery of critical community projects nationwide.

Last Spring, every member of the House was given the opportunity to participate in the annual appropriations process. Through something referred to as “community project funding,” we were able to request funding for specific projects in our communities, so long as the projects have a federal nexus and meet other requirements established by the law, House Rules, and the Appropriations Committee. 
So, now, as we move forward in passing funding legislation ahead of the January 30^th deadline, we are seeing Members’ requests become law as part of these bills – an achievement we can all, no matter our political preferences, take pride in.

I know that I, for one, can confidently say I am very proud to see what I have been able to secure for Oklahoma’s Fourth District through these appropriations bills. 

For example, in November, through the Military Construction appropriations legislation, I was able to secure funding for both Tinker Air Force Base and Fort Sill Army Installation. Then, just last week, I secured funding for the Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office to acquire Rapid DNA technology systems that they have wanted for quite some time. Additionally, a critical $1.351 billion for the National Weather Service, including the National Weather Center in Norman, and $20.9 million for tornado severe storm research, including the NOAA National Severe Storms Laboratory at the University of Oklahoma, was secured. 

Through the Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, I secured funding for the Moore Public Works Authority Water Transmission Line Project and to support tribes throughout the Fourth District. From money for activities that lead to lower costs for rural homes and farms to projects at the Chickasaw National Recreation Area and so much more, I can truly say these funding packages will make a difference in Oklahoma and in Members’ districts throughout the country – and there is so much more to be secured in the next six appropriations bills.

So, as we continue to work to pass full-year funding for the government, I look forward to sending more appropriations bills to President Trump’s desk and I hope my colleagues will join me in supporting these critical pieces of legislation.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE | CONTACT: Olivia Porcaro 202-225-6165

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Tom Cole (OK-04) voted in favor of H.R. 7006, a two-bill funding package covering the Financial Services and General Government (FSGG) and the National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs (NSRP) appropriations measures for the fiscal year 2026. After voting in favor of the package, he released the following statement: 

“Congress is maintaining momentum on full-year government funding. President Trump signed the first three appropriations bills into law in November. Then, last Thursday, the House passed a package of three more funding bills. Now, today, we added two more bills to that tally,” said Congressman Cole.

“With this two-bill funding package, we are advancing the mandate of the American people and continuing to reign in President Trump’s golden age. Small businesses and entrepreneurs are supported, and consumer freedom is safeguarded. We protect our nation by strengthening cyber defenses and dismantling the networks that enable terrorism and drug trafficking. By realigning our diplomacy and national posture to deter threats, peace through strength is being restored,” said Congressman Cole.

“I am very proud of the hard work the Appropriations Committee, our Cardinals, Democratic Ranking Members, and Republican leadership has put in to get this legislation through the finish line. These bills serve a clear purpose – safety, security, and freedom – and I look forward to sending it to President Trump’s desk,” said Congressman Cole.

Key Provisions in the Financial Services and General Government and National Security, Department of State, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act of 2026

Financial Services and General Government

• Modernizes the IRS to better support taxpayers and crack down on fraud.
• Supports entrepreneurship and small business development.
• Maintains “Buy American” provisions.
• Protects consumer freedom in kitchen appliance, other tool, and recreational vehicle products through prohibition of Biden-era regulations.
• Maintains critical pro-life riders.
• Invests in the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Program to strengthen interdiction efforts and stop narcotics from entering our borders.
• Takes steps to identify underutilized federal office spaces to cut wasteful Washington spending.

National Security, Department of State, and Related Agencies

Oklahoma Priorities/ Congressman Cole Secured in the Financial Services and General Government and National Security, Department of State, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act of 2026

Financial Services and General Government 

• $28 million for Native Initiatives at the Community Development Financial Institution Fun, improving financial capacity for tribal nations to expand community development.
• $5.3 million for Native American outreach through the Small Business Association’s Office of Native American Affairs.
• $324 million for the Community Development Financial Institution Fund, allowing for access to opportunities and economic growth in rural communities.
• $27 million for the Small Business Association’s Women’s Business Centers.
• $45 million for the Election Assistance Commission’s Election Security Grants to ensure our elections are safe from cyber threats and other bad actors.
• Secured language requiring the General Services Administration to audit all its technology to identify IT products that were produced by companies with ties to the People’s Republic of China.
• Secured language requiring the Office of Management and Budget to work with the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency and the Office of the National Cyber Director to submit a report to Congress on the status of the deployment of Endpoint Detection and Response solutions, as well as a timeline of full coverage to combat cyber threats from sophisticated adversaries like Russia and China.

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