MIL USHOR-2b Engine

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

April 11, 2025

Washington, D.C.- Today, U.S. Representatives Mike Levin (CA-49), Brian Mast (FL-21), Suzanne Bonamici (OR-1), and Jen Kiggans (VA-2) reintroduced the bipartisan Resilient Coasts and Estuaries Act, which would revitalize federal efforts to strengthen and protect lagoons and estuaries. This bill would reauthorize and enhance the Coastal and Estuarine Land Conservation Program (CELCP) and require the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to work toward designating five new National Estuarine Research Reserves and to enhance the Reserve System.

Congress established the CELCP to provide grants to state and local governments to protect coastal and estuarine areas deemed to have conservation, recreation, ecological, historical, or aesthetic value. This program supports locally driven efforts to protect coastal and estuarine lands for conservation, research, and recreation. CELCP’s authorization expired in fiscal year 2013 and other federal funding mechanisms ran out in 2017.

The Resilient Coasts and Estuaries Act would revive funding for CELCP at $60 million per year and expand the eligibility for program to include nongovernmental organizations. The bill would prioritize funding for projects in communities that lack resources for coastal hazards, areas threatened by climate change, and areas that might help mitigate the effects of environmental changes through blue carbon storage.

The Resilient Coasts and Estuaries Act would also support and expand the National Estuarine Research Reserve System (NERRS), which the Tijuana River Estuarine Research Reserve is a part of. The NERRS is a network of 30 coastal sites covering 1.4 million acres designated to protect and study estuarine systems. The Reserves specialize in research and data monitoring to support conservation and management efforts locally and around the country.

“As the proud representative of a coastal community, I know the critical role lagoons and estuaries play in safeguarding against environmental hazards and enhancing our local economy,” said Rep. Levin. “This bill restores a common-sense measure to protect coastal and estuary habitats. As we continue to find creative solutions to combat coastal erosion and rising sea levels, and protect our environment, I’m eager to work with my colleagues on this bipartisan bill to advance this priority for our communities.”

“Healthy estuaries are important to thriving coastal communities and a robust economy,” said Rep. Bonamici. “This bipartisan effort to conserve and rehabilitate these vital ecosystems will improve resilience along our country’s waterways and coasts, and I thank my co-sponsors for their support.”

“Coastal Virginia is blessed to be home to a large network of estuaries and other wetlands that act as critical barriers against hurricanes, tropical storms, and other natural disasters,” said Congresswoman Kiggans. “Through this important legislation, we can provide state and local governments the resources they need ensure these lands in southeast Virginia and around the country are protected. I’m proud to join my colleagues on this bipartisan effort to preserve our wetlands and support our coastal communities!”

“Estuaries are an essential part of our community. The problems facing the Indian River Lagoon, Caloosahatchee, St. Lucie, and Lake Worth Lagoon have shown repeatedly that our work to protect and restore our waterways is not over,” said Rep. Brian Mast. “I’m proud to support the bipartisan Resilient Coasts and Estuaries Act to reauthorize a successful program that allows us to better safeguard our coastal environments for future generations to come.”

“With over 80 percent of America’s population living in coastal states, millions of hunters and anglers rely on coastal habitats to support recreational passions and economies. The Coastal and Estuarine Land Conservation Program and the National Estuarine Research Reserve System have provided vital state and local stewardship for these habitats, safeguarding at-risk ecosystems and promoting public access for all. The TRCP is proud to support the bipartisan Resilient Coasts and Estuaries Act, and we commend Reps. Levin, Mast, Bonamici, and Kiggans for working to reauthorize common-sense conservation funding,” said Joel Pedersen, President and CEO, Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership

“Surfrider applauds Representative Levin and the introduction of this bill to establish a Coastal and Estuarine Resilience and Restoration Program. For too long our shorelines and coastal wetlands have been overlooked as critical natural defenses against climate change. This bill will help bolster the resilience of vulnerable coastal ecosystems and communities from the impacts of sea level rise and climate change while protecting the rich habitats and wildlife that they support,” said Zach Plopper, Sr, Environmental Director, Surfrider Foundation

“We welcome the reintroduction of the Resilient Coasts and Estuaries Act which reauthorizes critical programs that will increase conservation of coastal land, improve estuarine data and research, and provide more public access and recreational opportunities in an era of massive coastal change. By balancing the protection, conservation, responsible use, and sustainable economic development of America’s coasts and ensuring every state can manage its own coastal zone, coastal communities and habitats can thrive into the future.” said Derek Brockbank, Executive Director of Coastal States Organization.

“Thank you to Representatives Levin, Mast, Bonamici and Kiggans for their leadership; they know that as the challenges facing our coasts intensify, we need strong, effective programs that protect people, places, and economies,” said Rebecca Roth, director of the National Estuarine Research Reserve Association (NERRA). “The National Estuarine Research Reserve System and the Coastal and Estuarine Land Conservation Program are time tested initiatives that consistently meet coastal community needs with training, science, data, education, land protection and more. Reauthorization of these programs will ensure they remain a cornerstone of our national policy, a value added for states, and a direct benefit to local communities and economies for generations to come.”

“Healthy estuaries support our coastal communities and serve as nurseries and feeding grounds for birds, fish, and other wildlife,” said Romaric Moncrieffe, marine conservation policy manager at the National Audubon Society. “The Resilient Coasts and Estuaries Act will fund the essential federal programs that protect coastal habitats from threats like sea-level rise, flooding, and erosion.”

The bill would provide support for several estuary habitats in the 49^th District and Southern California, including the San Mateo Lagoon, San Luis Rey River, and San Elijo Lagoon. Additionally, the bill would provide support to the Tijuana River Estuarine Research Reserve, which supports ecosystem management and the cleanup of the Tijuana River Valley.

The Resilient Coasts and Estuaries Act is endorsed by the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership, Coastal States Organization, National Estuarine Research Reserve Association, Backcountry Hunters & Anglers, Surfrider Foundation, Oceana, National Audubon Society, American Sportsfishing Association, National Wildlife Federation, Bonefish & Tarpon Trust, American Fly Fishing Trade Association (AFFTA), American Shore & Beach Preservation Association, Bass Anglers Sportsman Society (B.A.S.S.), American Fisheries Society, North American Falconers Association, International Game Fish Association, Land Trust Alliance, Wild Salmon Center, and Angler Action Foundation.

###

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

Headline: Carter introduces bill preventing unnecessary animal testing

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) today introduced the FDA Modernization Act 3.0, alongside bipartisan colleagues Reps. Nanette Barragán (D-CA), Vern Buchanan (R-FL), Rosa DeLauro (D-CT), Diana Harshbarger (R-TN), and Troy Carter (D-LA), a bill directing the FDA to fully implement provisions intended to reduce unnecessary animal testing for drug development. 

This bill will require FDA to fully implement the FDA Modernization Act 2.0, signed into law in 2022, ensuring that safe and effective treatments are developed for patients using advanced and innovative non-animal testing methods.

“It is inhumane to rely solely on animal testing of medical products when other, harmless methods exist that are more predictive of human outcomes. The FDA Modernization Act 2.0, and recent actions by the Trump administration, have paved the way for modernizing FDA’s testing methods. This bill will put these wins into practice, accelerating innovation and getting safer, more effective drugs to market quickly by cutting unnecessary red tape,” said Rep. Buddy Carter.

“The FDA Modernization Act of 2021 was a monumental win that will streamline drug development and spur innovation without having to sacrifice at the expense of animal welfare,” said Rep. Vern Buchanan. “I look forward to building upon that success with Congressman Carter and ensuring the FDA follows through on delivering speedier cures for diseases without subjecting animals to inhumane and counterproductive experiments.”

“The FDA’s outdated animal testing rules are harming animals, hurting patients, and stalling medical innovation,” said Rep. Diana Harshbarger. “The FDA Modernization Act 3.0 will cut burdensome red tape to allow drug manufacturers to use modern and more humane alternatives to improve safety for animals and patients alike. As a compound pharmacist for more than 30 years, I understand that ensuring East Tennesseans have affordable access to safe medicines is of the utmost priority, and this bill is a step toward delivering safe medicines in a more humane way.”

“This bill will transform drug development for the 21st century. By requiring full implementation of the FDA Modernization Act 2.0, this legislation ensures that advanced, human-based testing methods are actively adopted in the drug development process. It’s a win for patients, a win for innovation, and a win for animal welfare. I’m proud to be join this bipartisan measure to accelerate safer, more humane, and more effective medical breakthroughs,” said Rep. Troy A. Carter, Sr.

Read full bill text here. 

###

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Bill Huizenga (MI-02)

Today, Congressman Bill Huizenga (R-MI) and Congressman Marc Veasey (D-TX) announced the introduction of the bipartisan and bicameral Youth Sports Facilities Act. This bipartisan bill amends Title II of the Public Works and Economic Development Act to add Youth Sports Facilities to the list of eligible uses of Economic Development Assistance grants. This will help build and improve youth sports facilities across the nation, increase tourism, and strengthen small business.

After introducing this bipartisan legislation, Congressmen Huizenga and Veasey released the following statements:

“The Youth Sports Facilities Act is a bipartisan solution designed to bring communities together, create economic opportunity, and improve the physical and mental well-being of students across the nation,” said Congressman Bill Huizenga. “For too long, an area code has determined whether students could have access to facilities or resources necessary to participate and compete. I am proud to champion the Youth Sports Facilities Act because it opens the doors for communities across Michigan and around the country to create new opportunities for children to develop critical skills, enhance local tourism, and foster small business growth.”

“Youth development is about more than academics—it’s about access to safe spaces where kids can play, grow, and thrive,” said Congressman Marc Veasey, Co-chair of the Youth Sports Caucus. “This bill empowers states like Texas to invest in the sports and recreation facilities our communities need. By unlocking EDA funding, the Youth Sports Facilities Act gives underserved areas the tools to build healthier futures and stronger local economies. I’m proud to work with my colleagues to make this long-overdue investment in our kids and neighborhoods.”

The companion bill has been introduced in the U.S. Senate by Senators Jon Ossoff (D-GA) and Todd Young (R-IN).

“Georgia families deserve modern and safe sports facilities where their kids can play, grow, and thrive,” said Sen. Ossoff. “This bipartisan bill will help Georgia communities expand youth sports facilities, strengthen local economies, and foster mental and physical health for the next generation.”

“Youth sports play a vital role in promoting healthy lifestyles from an early age while teaching essential life skills like teamwork and discipline. This bill would empower communities to use existing grant resources to improve youth sports facilities for children living in areas of need, encouraging greater youth sports participation across the nation,” said Sen. Young.

 

This legislation is also endorsed by several national and local stakeholders.

“As the leading nonprofit provider of youth sports programs, YMCA of the USA supports the Youth Sports Facilities Act. Youth sports facilities often lead to growth in local economies as families attend sporting events, support local business, hotels and restaurants. Youth sports programs create a space for families and the community to belong, improve health outcomes and strengthen the fabric of the economy and the community.” Jeffrey Britt, Chief Government Affairs Officer, YMCA of the USA

“The Youth Sports Facilities Act will provide a new federal funding opportunity through the Economic Development Administration for municipalities like Portage to develop safe, accessible recreation facilities for the next generation to help strengthen and connect our community,” said Mayor Patricia Randall, City of Portage, Michigan. “I applaud the bipartisan leadership in Congress for reintroducing this important legislation prioritizing children’s health while spurring economic investments within communities.”

“Because we see firsthand the role sports can play in shaping young people and growing communities, Pop Warner fully supports the re-introduction of the Youth Sports Facilities Act. By expanding the Economic Development Assistance grant program to include investments in youth sports facilities, this bill will ensure every community has the resources it needs to create safe and accessible sports environments. We urge you to pass this bill, investing in our children’s futures and in the well-being of our communities.” Steve Strawbridge, President & CEO, Pop Warner Little Scholars

“The West Michigan Sports Commission was founded in 2007 as an economic generator to spur visitor spending for the region. One of its key tenets is generating overnight stays from event visitors, which drives spending in area hotels, restaurants, and support of other businesses, sustaining and creating jobs.  However, sports tourism and investment in sport facilities goes beyond these metrics. Investment in sport infrastructure provides a launching pad for health and wellness, vibrancy, and community activity and access to sport.” Mike Guswiler, President, West Michigan Sports Commission

“The access barrier to sports participation keeps America’s youth off the playing field and denies them the opportunity to realize the mental & physical health benefits and develop the social skills so important to a child’s development.  SFIA fully endorses the Youth Sports Facilities Act to give communities the resources needed for investments in youth sports facilities to lower the access barrier to participation.” Todd Smith, President & CEO, Sports & Fitness Industry Association 

 

Background:

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted how physical activity in communities plays a significant role in mental and physical health, especially among children. However, children who could not participate in these activities due to a lack of access to sports facilities had worse outcomes.

For example, studies show that children playing sports can reduce anxiety and depression, ultimately saving the health system billions. Moreover, participation in youth sports could reduce cases of weight-related diseases such as type 2 diabetes, coronary heart disease, stroke, and cancers in children.

The Economic Development Administration was created to assist state and local stakeholders with developing the conditions and amenities to grow businesses, create jobs, and expand investment in economically distressed areas. Allowing communities to access federal grants to build youth sports facilities will lead to better health outcomes for future generations of children. Not only do youth sports encourage athletic growth and teamwork, but they also create significant economic impact by attracting events and visitors to the community.

The Youth Sports Facility Act is supported by the Sports & Fitness Industry Association, the YMCA, the National Federation of High Schools, the American College of Sports Medicine, U.S. Soccer, the NHL, the PWHL, USA Hockey, Pop Warner Little Scholars, the Michigan Sports Commission, and the National Recreation and Parks Association.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jerrold Nadler (10th District of New York)

WASHINGTON, DC –  Today, U.S. Representatives Jerrold Nadler (NY-12), Tim Kennedy (NY-26), and Grace Meng (NY-06) led a letter to Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and Senior Official Performing the Duties of FEMA Administrator Cameron Hamilton urging the Trump Administration to reverse its decision to eliminate over $325 million in funding for New York State through the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities (BRIC) program.

They were joined on the letter by Representatives Yvette Clarke (NY-09), Dan Goldman (NY-10), Ritchie Torres (NY-15), Paul Tonko (NY-20), Hakeem Jeffries (NY-08), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), John Mannion (NY-22), Nydia Velázquez (NY-07), Gregory Meeks (NY-05), Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), George Latimer (NY-16), Tom Suozzi (NY-3), Pat Ryan (NY-18), and Laura Gillen (NY-04).

The Trump Administration’s decision to eliminate BRIC threatens over $325 million in hazard and flood mitigation projects across New York State. The Members also called on the Trump Administration to immediately release $1.6 billion in Disaster Relief Funds designated for New York, which remains unjustly frozen.

In their letter, the Members wrote: “We urge you to reverse your decision to eliminate BRIC funding, take immediate steps to reinstate previously approved grants without delay, and unfreeze the $1.6 billion in additional Disaster Relief Funds for New York that remain unjustly withheld.

During Hurricane Ida, 14 New Yorkers lost their lives—11 drowned in basement apartments. Nearly a decade earlier, Superstorm Sandy devastated our state, claiming 48 lives in New York and causing billions in damage,” the Members continued. “Entire neighborhoods were left underwater, infrastructure was destroyed, and vulnerable communities were pushed to the brink. In December 2022, after a historic winter storm claimed 47 lives in Western New York, a report found that investments in building upgrades were critical to building resilience and preventing this kind of devastation during future storms.”

“The projects now being cut by the Trump Administration were designed to prevent these levels of suffering from happening again. Canceling them now, especially as construction was poised to begin, sends a message that our communities’ lives, safety, and futures are disposable. They are not,” the Members concluded.

Among the projects now at risk are:

• $50 million for flood mitigation infrastructure in Central Harlem, home to schools, hospitals, elder care facilities, and thousands of low-income families.
• $50 million for East Elmhurst to prevent stormwater overflow in a largely residential area hit hard during Hurricane Ida.
• $42.4 million for coastal protection around the South Street Seaport, a vital economic and cultural hub of Lower Manhattan.
• $47 million for the Corona Corridor Cloudburst Hub, a green infrastructure project in Queens aimed at reducing storm-related runoff and flooding.
• $46.6 million for the Kissena Corridor Cloudburst Hub, an integrated green infrastructure project in Queens aimed at mitigating flooding.
• $13 million to protect Hunts Point—critical to New York City’s food supply and emergency response capacity.
• $11.5 million for storm surge barriers around the NYCHA Polo Grounds public housing and the adjacent P.S. 046 in Harlem.
• And many others, including nearly $20 million in protection for public housing developments in Brooklyn, such as Sheepshead Bay, Nostrand, and Breukelen Houses.

Beyond New York City, FEMA’s reversal also threatens urgently needed projects across the state. This includes $24 million for flood and ice jam mitigation along the Erie Canal in the Capital Region and $731,000 for dam decommissioning and floodplain restoration in Westchester. Communities in Buffalo, slated to benefit from much-needed infrastructure modernization, will lose out on $284,000 in critical funding for sustainable building construction support.

The full text of the members’ letter is available HERE. 

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (12th District of Michigan)

Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (MI-06) today led the Michigan Democratic delegation in sending a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Attorney General Pam Bondi, and Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem requesting answers about the sudden and seemingly arbitrary revocations of international students’ visas at universities in Michigan and across the country.

“In the past week, the nation learned that the Trump administration has begun revoking international students’ visas without explanation,” the lawmakers wrote. “In light of these visa revocations, international students are experiencing great anxiety about how the administration’s policies will affect their ability to continue studying at academic institutions across the United States.”

“Academic institutions in Michigan and across the United States are trying their best to address students’ concerns and help impacted students understand required actions, but much remains unclear,” the lawmakers continued. “Students, parents, and academic institutions are trying to understand what appears to be arbitrary decisions to revoke student visas. The timing of this is especially difficult just weeks before the end of the semester, with some students expecting to graduate within the month.”

“Equally perplexing, academic institutions are not receiving any clear guidance from the administration. Universities are only learning of their students’ visas being revoked by checking the Student Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS). Beyond upending current international students’ studies and lives, we are deeply concerned these revocations are having a chilling effect on international student enrollments.”

The lawmakers requested answers to the following questions within two weeks:

1. What student records are being reviewed by DHS?
2. What specific factors are being considered in the decision to terminate a visa?
3. How are students being notified that their visa is being terminated? Are they receiving information regarding the exact basis of the decision?
4. How much time do impacted students have to understand the implications and determine next steps?
5. What guidance is being given to impacted students? What are their options? Can you outline any appeal processes that are available if a SEVIS record is terminated/a student’s visa has been revoked?
6. If a student decides to stay after their visa is terminated, would that constitute unlawful presence and affect their ability to obtain a different visa?
7. How are academic institutions being notified when the visa of an enrolled student is revoked?
8. In the past, revocation of a student’s visa did not result in the termination of a student’s SEVIS record. Why has this changed, and what is the legal basis for terminating a student’s SEVIS record when a student’s visa has been revoked?
9. Will DHS clarify with principal designated school officials (PDSOs) what the exact basis was for students having their records terminated?
10. Can USCIS clarify the social media vetting announcement vis-a-vis the proposed regulation on social media handle collection (https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/news-releases/dhs-to-begin-screening-aliens-social-media-activity-for-antisemitism)
11. What is the status of state-side visa renewal implementation?
12. Are individual U.S. consulates/embassies able to offer more liberal visa interview waivers than the revised DOS guidance permits?

The letter is signed by every member of the U.S. House Michigan Democratic delegation: Representatives Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Haley Stevens (MI-11), Hillary Scholten (MI-03), Shri Thanedar (MI-13), and Kristen McDonald Rivet (MI-08).

View the full text of the letter here.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09)

Toledo, Ohio — Today, Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development, and Senator Patty Murray (D-WA), Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee and Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development, sent a letter to the Government Accountability Office (GAO) requesting it review whether a recent order issued by Department of Energy (DOE) Secretary Chris Wright that seeks to accelerate project execution might actually lead to more cost overruns, project delays and failures, and waste, fraud, and abuse at America’s national labs.

“We write to you today to raise concerns regarding the Department of Energy’s recent Secretarial Order titled ‘Strengthening National Laboratory Efficiency and Mission Execution,’ announced by Secretary Wright on March 27, 2025. The stated purpose of the Secretarial Order is to remove ‘red tape’ and accelerate mission execution. While the objective of enhancing efficiency is a laudable one,” Kaptur and Murray write, “the approach outlined in this order, curtailing oversight and regulatory processes, presents significant risks that warrant thorough evaluation.”

“Specifically, we are concerned that reducing oversight, rather than strengthening it, could lead to greater cost overruns and project delays, ultimately undermining the very mission objectives that this order intends to support,” they add.

Kaptur and Murray note that DOE oversees a wide range of sensitive, complex programs that require robust oversight to protect taxpayer dollars and prevent waste, delays, and hazards: “The Department is responsible for an extensive range of activities, including managing nuclear facilities, clean energy initiatives, and critical infrastructure. Each of these areas requires detailed oversight, rigorous financial controls, and transparent decision-making processes to ensure that taxpayer dollars are spent effectively. Reducing these safeguards in the name of efficiency could expose these programs to a higher risk of financial mismanagement and project failure, as we have seen with past projects where inadequate supervision led to significant delays and budget overruns.”

Kaptur and Murray conclude by requesting GAO review the implications of Secretary Wright’s order: “Given these concerns, we respectfully request the GAO to review the potential implications of this Secretarial Order on the Department of Energy’s major programs and projects. Specifically, we ask that your office evaluate whether the removal of key oversight measures could increase the likelihood of cost overruns that cost Americans taxpayers and whether these changes provide sufficient safeguards to prevent waste, fraud, and abuse and protect taxpayer interests.”

The full letter is available by clicking here and reading below:

April 11, 2025

The Honorable Gene L. Dodaro
Comptroller General of the United States
Government Accountability Office
441 G Street NW
Washington, DC 20548

Dear Mr. Dodaro,

We write to you today to raise concerns regarding the Department of Energy’s recent Secretarial Order titled “Strengthening National Laboratory Efficiency and Mission Execution,” announced by Secretary Wright on March 27, 2025.  The stated purpose of the Secretarial Order is to remove “red tape” and accelerate mission execution.  While the objective of enhancing efficiency is a laudable one, the approach outlined in this order, curtailing oversight and regulatory processes, presents significant risks that warrant thorough evaluation. Specifically, we are concerned that reducing oversight, rather than strengthening it, could lead to greater cost overruns and project delays, ultimately undermining the very mission objectives that this order intends to support.

This new policy seeks to expedite the Department’s ability to carry out its projects and initiatives by scaling back existing government controls, particularly those related to procurement, contracting, and oversight. While streamlining processes can indeed be beneficial in certain contexts, the absence of proper federal oversight mechanisms often leads to unintended consequences—cost overruns, inefficiencies, and failures to meet project timelines. The Government Accountability Office (GAO) has consistently highlighted the importance of strong project management and oversight in federal projects, particularly in areas as complex and high-stakes as those under the purview of the Department.

The Department is responsible for an extensive range of activities, including managing nuclear facilities, clean energy initiatives, and critical infrastructure. Each of these areas requires detailed oversight, rigorous financial controls, and transparent decision-making processes to ensure that taxpayer dollars are spent effectively. Reducing these safeguards in the name of efficiency could expose these programs to a higher risk of financial mismanagement and project failure, as we have seen with past projects where inadequate supervision led to significant delays and budget overruns.

GAO’s body of work underscores the importance of maintaining a balance between the need for speed and the need for accountability. And the Department’s own tracking confirms the risk. For example, 53 percent – representing over $24 Billion – of the Department’s total project portfolio is currently at risk or expected to breach its performance baseline. Without sufficient oversight, there is a higher likelihood that projects will not meet their cost estimates or will fail to be completed within the allocated timelines. These issues can be especially pronounced in large-scale, long-term projects, where the absence of regular evaluations and assessments creates opportunities for waste, fraud, and abuse.

Furthermore, an “accelerated mission execution” culture risks prioritizing expediency over quality, safety, and long-term sustainability. For instance, the rush to move projects forward without adequate risk assessments or regulatory reviews could expose the Department to safety hazards, environmental risks, and long-term maintenance burdens that are costly to correct down the line. This risk is heightened given the high-hazard activities of the National Nuclear Security Administration, which involve nuclear weapons and radiation safety, and the Office of Environmental Management, which include addressing the cleanup and safe disposal of radioactive waste.

Given these concerns, we respectfully request the GAO to review the potential implications of this Secretarial Order on the Department of Energy’s major programs and projects. Specifically, we ask that your office evaluate whether the removal of key oversight measures could increase the likelihood of cost overruns that cost Americans taxpayers and whether these changes provide sufficient safeguards to prevent waste, fraud, and abuse and protect taxpayer interests.

We look forward to your insights on this matter and any recommendations your office might provide to mitigate these risks.

Sincerely,

# # #

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

WASHINGTON – Congressman David Valadao (CA-22) introduced the Combatting Organized Retail Crime (CORCA) Act alongside Reps. Dave Joyce (OH-14), Susie Lee (NV-03), Dina Titus (NV-01), Brad Schneider (IL-10), Laurel Lee (Fl-15), Lou Correa (CA-46), and Michael Baumgartner (WA-05). This bipartisan, bicameral bill takes important steps to strengthen legal tools for law enforcement and crack down on interstate and transnational crime. The Senate companion bill is led by Senators Chuck Grassley (R-IA) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV).

The CORCA Act builds off initiatives in the Safeguarding our Supply Chains Act, which was introduced by Congressman David Valadao and Congressman Brad Schneider (IL-10) in the 118th Congress.

“Organized retail crime and supply chain theft are hitting families and small businesses hard in the Central Valley and beyond,” said Congressman Valadao. “These crimes are largely run by sophisticated criminal networks that endanger public safety and drive-up costs for consumers. In the 118th Congress, I introduced the Safeguarding our Supply Chains Act to fight back against cargo theft, and I’m happy to see some of that language included in this bill. The CORCA Act gives law enforcement the tools they need to hold criminals accountable, and I’m proud to work with my colleagues to get this across the finish line.”

“Businesses throughout my district are facing the burdens of a rise in organized retail crimes and fraud schemes that are sweeping the nation,” said Rep. Joyce. “These criminal organizations are not only harming small businesses and retailers in our communities, but are also putting American consumers at risk of violence and fraud. These crimes also have more widespread consequences for public safety, as these organized groups often resell stolen goods to finance other illicit activities, including drug and human trafficking operations. Our bipartisan, bicameral legislation will give law enforcement the tools they need to put a stop to these rampant crimes. I want to thank Senator Grassley for his steadfast leadership on this effort and all our House and Senate colleagues on both sides of the aisle for their partnership in addressing this critical issue.” 

“Organized retail crime puts all of us in danger, while hurting consumers, taxpayers, and businesses of all sizes. And the stolen goods fund human trafficking and terrorism,” said Rep. Susie Lee. “Our local and state law enforcement are doing incredible work, but we need coordination at the federal level to investigate and prosecute these crimes. Our bipartisan legislation will support law enforcement with the tools they need to crack down on these criminal operations.”

“By establishing a coordinated federal response, the Combating Organized Retail Crime Act would target the criminals who endanger consumers, local businesses, and transportation networks, along with the nefarious transnational groups that fund their operations,” said Rep. Titus. “This legislation will help law enforcement better pursue and prosecute these bad actors, while protecting businesses and saving consumer dollars.”

“Organized cargo and retail theft are a real and growing problem in Illinois and across the country – it’s time Congress step in to counteract it,” said Rep. Schneider. “Cargo and retail theft are not just local issues — organized groups are stealing goods at all points in the supply chain, oftentimes well before products make it to shelves, and resell stolen items across state lines. I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing this legislation to safeguard commerce, consumer confidence, and national security.”

“The rise in sophisticated criminal activities targeting retail stores and the broader supply chain has become a critical threat to our national economy, consumer safety, and public security,” said Rep. Laurel Lee. “With retail theft surging by 93 percent over the last four years, the time to act is now. We must equip law enforcement with the necessary resources and tools to combat these criminals on a federal level, as they operate across state lines and international borders. I am proud to co-sponsor the Combatting Organized Retail Crime Act to protect our businesses and keep our communities safe.”

“The damage of organized retail crime is real, and it hurts hard-working American taxpayers and businesses here in Orange County across the country,” Rep. Correa said. “Our state and local public safety officers work tirelessly to keep our communities safe from this crime, and they deserve the best possible tools to take down these criminal syndicates. Retail crime affects everyone—so I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing the Combating Organized Retail Crime Act today to help stop this threat dead in its tracks.”

“Every time these criminals loot a store, fleece a supplier, highjack a trucker, shakedown a warehouse, honest Americans pay more. Prices go up, shelves go empty, and the working families in places like Spokane and Walla Walla get hit with a hidden tax — all because prosecutors are unable to prosecute, and thieves think they can get away with it,” said Rep. Baumgartner. “This bill hits back. It takes on the crime rings behind the theft, shuts down the online black market for stolen goods, and backs the blue with real support. Do you want to lower prices? Start by locking up the people who are robbing us blind.”

“The Home Depot applauds Congressman Valadao for committing to the safety of our associates and customers by introducing the Combatting Organized Retail Crime Act,” said Scott Glenn, VP of Asset Protection, The Home Depot. “This legislation will help stop dangerous criminals from stealing from our stores.”

“The Major County Sheriffs of America (MCSA) strongly supports efforts to combat organized retail crime, and we appreciate the strong bipartisan support behind the reintroduction of the Combating Organized Retail Crime Act,” said Megan Noland, MCSA Executive Director. “With provisions to strengthen penalties and the creation of a dedicated center for coordination and information sharing, this legislation is a vital step toward supporting law enforcement in our fight against organized crime. We look forward to working together to advance this important legislation during this Congress.”

“Organized cargo theft and fraud disrupt intermodal freight supply chains, risk the safety of our workforce, and harm the U.S. economy,” said Anne Reinke, President & CEO of the Intermodal Association of North America. “The Intermodal Association of North America (IANA) applauds Senator Grassley (R-IA), Senator Cortez Masto (D-NV), and Reps. Joyce (R-OH), Lee (D-NV), Valadao (R-CA), Titus (D-NV), Baumgartner (R-WA), Schneider (D-IL), Lee (R-FL), and Correa (D-CA) for their leadership in championing critical legislation to address this urgent threat. The bipartisan Combating Organized Retail Crime Act will provide important resources to detect and fight organized crime throughout the supply chain, ensuring that our industry can continue delivering goods to American consumers safely and efficiently.”

“Organized criminal operations continue to evolve and escalate their targeted attacks against our nation’s supply chain and retailers,” said Association of American Railroads President and CEO Ian Jefferies. “This alarming trend affects every industry — including the nation’s largest railroads, which experienced a 40% spike in cargo theft last year. Rep. Valadao’s long-term leadership on developing a unified, federal response has been pivotal in shaping the legislation introduced today. CORCA’s economy-wide strategic framework will go a long way in disrupting these criminal networks and safeguarding our supply chain.”

“UPS supports the Combatting Organized Retail Crime Act as it provides the necessary resources and coordination to protect the movement of American goods throughout our country while safeguarding the integrity of our national supply chain from rail to road, to retail,” said President of UPS Global Public Affairs Michael Kiely.

“Across the United States, communities small and large are facing an unprecedented number of Organized Retail Crime (ORC) incidents. The Combatting Organized Retail Crime Act would provide the necessary resources to bring the people and organizations behind this nationwide problem to justice by establishing formal coordination between law enforcement and the private sector,” said ICSC President and CEO, Tom McGee. “We applaud Reps. Joyce, Lee, Titus, and Valadao for reintroducing the Combatting Organized Retail Crime Act. We believe the bill represents a huge step in the right direction towards addressing this growing issue.”

“The trucking industry takes great pride in delivering America’s freight safely and on time; however, the billions of tons of goods transported by trucks from coast to coast have increasingly become a prime target for organized crime rings, including transnational organizations, putting truck drivers at risk and raising costs for consumers,” said American Trucking Associations President & CEO Chris Spear.  “ATA commends this bipartisan group of leaders for addressing this alarming trend and safeguarding our supply chain.  By empowering federal agencies to improve cooperation across jurisdictions and ramp up enforcement actions, this bill would strike an effective blow against organized crime.”

“Sophisticated criminal gangs are targeting retailers through brazen organized retail crime schemes, defrauding customers via gift card scams and attacking our supply chains by hijacking our rails and truck shipments. These criminal activities put retail employees, customers and supply chain partners in danger and allow criminal gangs to use ill-gotten profits to fund nefarious activities such as drug smuggling and human trafficking. Dismantling these organized criminal rings requires cooperation and collaboration. RILA thanks Reps. Joyce (R-OH), Lee (D-NV), Valadao (R-CA), Titus (D-NV), Baumgartner (R-WA), Schneider (D-IL), Lee (R-FL), and Correa (D-CA) for their leadership and commitment to enacting the Combating Organized Retail Crime Act (CORCA), which brings federal, state, and local law enforcement together to intercept and prosecute these criminal enterprises. RILA looks forward to working with them to get this critical piece of legislation signed into law,” said Michael Hanson, Retail Industry Leaders Association, Senior Executive Vice President, Public Affairs. 

“NRF applauds Rep. Dave Joyce (R-OH-14) for his continued leadership to address one of retail’s biggest challenges, the rise of organized retail crime. ORC is a multibillion-dollar crisis impacting retailers, their associates and the customers they serve. ORC is occurring across the retail enterprise – supply chains, bricks-and-mortar stores, warehouses and online – with stolen product sold for a profit, oftentimes to fund other crimes. The Combating Organized Retail Crime Act of 2025 will align efforts within a new Organized Retail and Supply Chain Crime Coordination Center to ensure that resources and information-sharing will be available across local, state, federal and private-sector partners to bring cases and prosecutions against organized theft groups. This legislation is an important step to help prevent ORC from infiltrating local communities across the country,” said NRF Executive Vice President of Government Relations David French.

Background:

Sophisticated criminal organizations have been increasingly involved in theft, fraud, and other property crimes against retail stores and various components of the supply chain. These crimes have escalated in scope and impact, threatening the national economy, consumer safety, and public security. According to the National Retail Federation, retail larceny incidents increased by 93% from 2019 to 2023, and stores lost $121.6 billion to retail theft in 2023. This surge in retail crime is often orchestrated by organized groups to resell stolen goods through physical and online marketplaces, further fueling illicit profits and financing additional criminal enterprises.

At the same time, product manufacturers and supply chains are experiencing a rise in organized cargo theft across rails, roads, and the various distribution points across the United States. CargoNet reported a 27% increase in cargo theft incidents in 2024 over 2023. These thefts range from large-scale physical theft of goods from containers and storage to sophisticated cybercriminal methods that divert shipments to illicit receivers. This causes significant financial losses and operational supply chain disruptions.

The CORCA Act would:

• Strengthen legal tools for law enforcement by allowing criminal forfeitures for interstate shipment, transportation of stolen goods, or sale of stolen goods convictions.
• Expand money laundering statutes.
• Enable prosecution of organized retail and supply chain groups using interstate or foreign commerce to facilitate crimes.
• Mandate the creation of the Organized Retail and Supply Chain Crime Coordination Center within Homeland Security Investigations (HIS) and the Department of Homeland Security.

The Combating Organized Retail Crime Act is also supported by the Federal Law Enforcement Officers Association, the Reusable Packaging Association, DHL, the U.S. Dairy Export Council, the National Milk Producers Foundation, the Transportation Intermediaries Association, the PASS (Protect America’s Small Sellers) Coalition, the International Downtown Association, Amazon, the World Shipping Council, Pirate Ship, the National Shooting Sports Foundation, Walgreens Co., CVS Health, Kroger, Walmart, and Target.

Read the full bill here.

###

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Kelly (R-PA)

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representatives Mike Kelly (R-PA), Chairman of the House Ways and Means Subcommittee on Tax. Lloyd Doggett (D-TX), senior member of the House Ways and Means Committee, Danny K. Davis (D-IL), Ranking Member of the House Ways and Means Subcommittee on Worker and Family Support, and Randy Feenstra (R-IA) introduced the bipartisan Tax-Free Pell Grants Act to remove a financial and logistical barrier impairing students from securing higher education opportunities. 

Specifically, the legislation expands the usage of Pell Grants on a tax-free basis, improves coordination with the American Opportunity Tax Credit (AOTC), and ensures students do not lose out on any AOTC benefits. An incredibly timely solution as ongoing cuts to postsecondary institutions and research labs across the country result in lost revenue and financial gaps in operating costs, potentially leading to increases in tuition and fees for students and their families.

“Pell Grants are an important way for more lower-income Americans to get an education and work toward a successful career,” said Rep. Kelly. “More than 216,000 Pennsylvania students benefitted from Pell Grants last year. I’m again proud to join Congressman Doggett on this bipartisan legislation that will expand what these grants can be used for – including child care and computers — so many more Americans, particularly single mothers, have the ability to access higher education to achieve long-term financial stability for themselves and their families.”

“Everyone deserves a chance at success, and we should be simplifying our tax code to unlock more support for students interested in going to college but who may need a little financial help to get there,” said Rep. Doggett. “This legislation would also expand eligible expenses under the existing tax credit to include computers and childcare, which for many is essential to achieving their dreams and growing our economy.”

“Education is fundamental to our democracy,” said Rep. Davis. “I am proud to join Representatives Doggett, Kelly, and Feenstra in leading this bill that helps low-income students get the most from the American Opportunity Tax Credit. In my District, relatively few taxpayers use the AOTC because many attend community colleges and can’t claim their childcare and computer costs. Ensuring that students can fully benefit from the AOTC credit without worry about being taxed on the Pell grant helps educate our citizenry and strengthen them economically.”

“I have long supported Pell Grants because they offer academic opportunities to our students and ensure that Iowans who might otherwise skip higher education because of the cost can pursue advanced studies. These grants are an important investment in the next generation of leaders, farmers, innovators, and entrepreneurs who will support our communities and power our economy forward,” said Rep. Feenstra. “However, current law still requires some students to pay taxes on their Pell Grants, reducing the financial support that these grants are intended to provide. That’s why I’m glad to help introduce legislation to make Pell Grants completely tax-free so that our kids can focus on their studies without worrying about the cost.”

“The Tax-Free Pell Grant Act is a commonsense, bipartisan solution that ensures students—especially those at community colleges—can fully benefit from the financial aid they’ve earned without facing burdensome tax rules,” said Megan Coval, President of Butler County Community College (BC3). “As a proud member of the Pennsylvania Commission for Community Colleges, Butler County Community College joins our colleagues across the commonwealth in supporting this important legislation. By making Pell Grants fully tax-free and aligning them with the American Opportunity Tax Credit, the bill removes barriers that disproportionately impact low-income students and those attending lower-cost institutions, like BC3. We applaud Congressman Kelly and Congressman Doggett for their leadership and strongly support this effort to expand opportunity, reduce financial uncertainty, and empower community college students in Butler County and across the nation.”

BACKGROUND

While Pell Grant awards used to pay for tuition and fees are already treated as tax-free income, any portion of a Pell Grant used for other education-related items like living expenses is taxed. Currently, using Pell Grants to cover tuition reduces potential AOTC eligibility and creates complications for students in maximizing their educational benefits. As a result, many students simply forgo the AOTC, leaving an estimated hundreds of millions of dollars unclaimed each year. By increasing compatibility with the AOTC, we can ensure that Pell Grants are not treated as taxable income, even if they are used for non-tuition education expenses.

The AOTC covers up to $2,500 in annual college tuition, fees, and other education-related expenses — 40% of the credit, up to $1,000, is refundable. With more than 3 million undergraduate students in the United States being parents—nearly one in five college students—access to affordable childcare can be the difference between completing a degree program or not. The Tax-Free Pell Grants Act meets this need by adding childcare and computer costs as qualifying expenses for the AOTC.

Endorsing organizations: American Association of Community Colleges, American Association of State Colleges and Universities, American Council on Education, Association of American Universities, Association of Public and Land-grant Universities, and the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities.

The bill text is available here.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jim Baird (R-IN-04)

Today, Congressman Jim Baird (IN-04) introduced the Small Modular Reactor Commercialization Act of 2025 (SMRCA) to secure the United States’ preeminent position in commercializing and industrializing grid-scale small modular reactor (SMR) technology.

“We want the United States to be the nuclear energy manufacturing powerhouse of the world,” said Congressman Baird. “To get there, we must ensure the U.S. is uniquely poised to attract top SMR companies and get them to build their factories here. Last year, Congress passed the ADVANCE Act to support the initial deployment of advanced nuclear reactors. This legislation builds on the ADVANCE Act to tackle the next question of how our nation can compete on truly commercializing and manufacturing this technology at-scale.”

“I’m proud to co-lead this bill with Congressman Baird to make America the global leader in advanced nuclear manufacturing,” said Congressman Harrigan. “Small modular reactors are the future of clean, reliable power, and the country that builds them at scale will set the rules. This legislation ensures that country is the United States.”

The Small Modular Reactor Commercialization Act of 2025 addresses the U.S. SMR industrialization competitiveness through:

• Creating an SMR Industrialization Competitiveness Working Group: This bill directs the Secretary of Energy to establish a long-term working group responsible for positioning the United States to compete for long-term SMR industrialization, beyond first-of-a-kind demonstrator production volumes.
• Modernizing SMR Electrical Output Thresholds, Reducing Cost-of-Electricity: This bill brings the definition of a Small Modular Reactor up to modern technology standards, in alignment with the ADVANCE Act. The new definition increases the electrical output threshold for “Small Modular Reactors” from 300MWe (enacted in 2005) to 500MWe. By increasing this figure, domestic (U.S.) industrialization and accelerated deployment of SMRs with higher electrical outputs become possible.

The 500MWe figure threshold encompasses all Small Modular Reactor designs currently undergoing pre-application or licensing activities with the NRC. The threshold also adheres to the definition of an Advanced Reactor set forth in the ADVANCE Act—whereby, it is below the lowest electrical output of a previous generation reactor in operation on December 27, 2020 (519 MWe).

Representatives Pat Harrigan (NC-10) and Claudia Tenney (NY-24) joined Congressman Jim Baird in the introduction of this legislation.

###

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jerrold Nadler (10th District of New York)

WASHINGTON, DC –  Today, Congressman Jerrold Nadler (NY-12) and Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14) led New York’s entire Democratic Congressional delegation in writing to Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy requesting a meeting to discuss the unprecedented attacks on New York State’s health funding. 

“We write regarding the Trump administration’s recent attempt to rescind more than $11 billion in congressionally authorized funding from state and local health departments across the country. Under these cuts, New York state health departments will lose an estimated $400 million in critical health funding, with $100 million of that being pulled from the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene alone,” the lawmakers wrote. “As a result of these actions, the New York State Department of Health has laid off more than 200 public health workers, including 50 full time staff and 168 public health fellows… Every single one of our constituents will be impacted by these actions.” 

A total of 19 lawmakers signed the letter. In addition to Rep. Ocasio-Cortez and Rep. Nadler, the following members joined in signing: Representatives Hakeem Jeffries (NY-08), Yvette Clarke (NY-09), Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), Laura Gillen (NY-04), Daniel Goldman (NY-10), Timothy Kennedy (NY-26), George Latimer (NY-16), John Mannion (NY-22), Gregory Meeks (NY-05), Grace Meng (NY-06), Joseph Morelle (NY-25), Josh Riley (NY-19), Patrick Ryan (NY-18), Tom Suozzi (NY-03), Paul Tonko (NY-20), Ritchie Torres (NY-15), and Nydia Velázquez (NY-07). 

The letter details that at least 200 community-based organizations that provide mental health, maternal health, and other life-saving services have had their funding jeopardized, and that rescinding congressional mandated funding is illegal and has already been blocked by a federal judge. The lawmakers conclude by requesting a meeting with HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy and his staff no later than April 22, 2025. 

The full letter is available here.