MIL USHOR-2b Engine

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

WASHINGTON – U.S. Representative Pramila Jayapal (WA-07) and U.S. Senator Mazie Hirono (D-HI) are introducing a resolution honoring library workers during National Library Week.

“Libraries and library workers are vital to every single community in this country. They facilitate our access to information, provide often lifesaving social resources, and host critical educational programming,” said Jayapal. “As the Trump administration seeks to eliminate the Institute of Museum and Library Services, libraries and library staff across the country are facing threats to their jobs. Today, I am proud to reaffirm my support for these dedicated workers and thank them for the critical work they do for our communities.”

“From accessing books to providing safe spaces for people to work and learn, the resources that libraries provide are essential to our communities,” said Senator Hirono. “I’m proud to lead this resolution with Congresswoman Jayapal, commemorating National Library Week in recognition of our country’s libraries and their dedicated staff. As the Trump Administration and Republicans work to systemically erase diverse voices from our history, schools, and libraries, it is crucial that we reaffirm our right to free and unfettered access to books and information without obstruction. Libraries are an important hub for information exchange and learning, and I will keep working to protect the indispensable services they provide.”

Over 350,000 public servants work at an estimated 120,000 libraries across the nation. Library workers provide the public with a host of critical services, from access to books, media, and the internet, to offering high-quality educational and cultural programming geared toward visitors of all ages, including connecting visitors to social services. These services are often essential to meeting the needs of underserved communities, including low-income and unhoused individuals and families. Overall, the public highly values libraries, 69 percent of U.S. adults age 16 or older felt their local libraries substantially contributed to providing a safe place for people to spend time, and 58 percent felt they substantially contributed toward creating educational opportunities. 

Unfortunately, libraries and library staff across this country are currently facing unprecedented challenges that harm their ability to provide critical resources, especially in rural, Tribal, and other underserved communities. In the wake of President Trump’s executive order to eliminate the Institute of Museum and Library Services, libraries across the country are already starting to receive notice of their federal grants being terminated. 

“Library workers are always there for us—offering knowledge, support, and safe spaces for all,” said AFSCME President Lee Saunders. “This National Library Week, we not only thank these dedicated public service professionals—we recognize the serious threats they’re up against. They are facing a disturbing rise in intimidation, censorship, and even violence, all while the Trump administration works to defund libraries and undermine their essential work. We proudly stand with Senator Hirono and Representative Jayapal in fighting for their rights, and we’ll continue organizing alongside library workers to secure the respect, safety, and stability that only a union contract can provide.”

“We thank Congresswoman Jayapal for giving voice to the many library workers in Washington state who provide our communities something special – a free place where all are invited to read, think, gather, connect, and grow.” said Tom Fay, Chief Librarian and Executive Director of The Seattle Public Library. “At a time when division and isolation are impacting many Americans, libraries provide an antidote by bringing people together to explore and celebrate a diversity of ideas. At a time when goods and services are costing more, libraries provide tremendous value, boosting educational and economic community outcomes. We need more of this, not less, if we are to foster a healthy and flourishing democracy.”

The resolution is sponsored by Representatives Nanette Barragán (CA-44), Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Brendan Boyle (PA-02), Greg Casar (TX-35), Angie Craig (MN-02), Lloyd Doggett (TX-37), Dwight Evans (PA-03), Jared Huffman (CA-02), Summer Lee (PA-12), Jerrold Nadler (NY-12), Donald Norcross (NJ-01), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-At-Large), Mark Pocan (WI-02), Andrea Salinas (OR-06), and Linda Sánchez  (CA-38) and Senators Jack Reed (D-RI), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Ron Wyden (D-OR), and Chris Van Hollen (D-MD)..

The resolution is endorsed by The American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME).

Issues: Arts & Education

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Bennie G Thompson (D-MS)

BOLTON, MS – Congressman Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS) is pleased to announce that the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) has been awarded $2,458,383 through a Performance Partnership Grant (PPG) from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This funding, part of a larger $16,187,623 approved amount, will support the State of Mississippi’s continuing environmental programs (CEP) aimed at protecting public health, restoring ecosystems, and improving environmental quality.

The grant, authorized under the 1996 Appropriations Act (PL 104-134) and the 1998 Appropriations Act (PL 105-65), will provide MDEQ with greater flexibility to address its highest environmental priorities, enhance performance, and strengthen its partnership with the EPA. The funds will be used for a variety of activities, including:

• Monitoring, inspections, permitting, and enforcement to ensure compliance with federal environmental regulations.
• Ambient air and water quality monitoring to detect and mitigate pollution.
• Cleanup and revitalization of contaminated areas to promote safe and productive land use.
• Technical assistance to government and the private sector to reduce pollution and protect natural resources.

The expected outcomes of the project include improved water quality, reduced contamination risks, enhanced air quality standards, and restored land for productive use. These efforts will ultimately support a healthier environment and stronger communities for all Mississippians.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Bennie G Thompson (D-MS)

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Bennie G Thompson (D-MS)

BOLTON, MS – Congressman Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS) will host a town hall to address Trump’s cuts to the Department of Education, Department of Health & Human Services, Social Security Administration, and other key government programs in Mississippi’s Second Congressional District.  The discussion will cover how these proposed cuts could impact students, seniors, and low-income families who depend on federal programs.

• WHO: Congressman Bennie G. Thompson   
• WHAT: Town Hall Events – Federal Budget Cuts and Other Key Programs

• WHEN & WHERE: 

  Tuesday, April 15, 2025, 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. (CT) 

                                   New Beginnings M.B. Church

                                   35 Triumph Ln

                                   Natchez, MS 39120

                 Thursday, April 24, 2025, 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. (CT)

                                    New Hope First Baptist Church

                                    705 Nelson Street

                                    Greenville, MS 38701

Members of the media who wish to attend are asked to RSVP by emailing Stephanie Booker at stephanie.booker@mail.house.gov .

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO-02)

Washington, D.C. –Rep. Ann Wagner (MO-02), Co-Chair of the bipartisan, bicameral Abraham Accords Caucus, hosted His Excellency Nasser Bourita, Foreign Minister of the Kingdom of Morocco for a closed-door roundtable with members of Congress on Tuesday, April 8. The discussion focused on Morocco’s growing role, under the leadership of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, in advancing regional peace, economic integration, and security cooperation, particularly within the framework of the Abraham Accords.

The event was co-hosted by Caucus Co-Chair Rep. Brad Schneider (IL-10) and provided Members an opportunity to engage directly with one of the region’s most active and strategic diplomatic leaders.

“The Kingdom of Morocco has been a vital partner with the United States in pursuit of peace, stability, and prosperity in Africa and the Middle East,” said Rep. Wagner. “As co-chair of the Abraham Accords Caucus, I have worked to deepen the economic, diplomatic, and security relationships between the United States, Morocco, Israel, and Arab nations in the region as well as address Iran’s efforts to undermine and destabilize the historic normalization agreement.  Today’s roundtable with Foreign Minister Bourita advances those shared interests and I appreciated the Foreign Minister’s vital perspective on our efforts.”

“The U.S.-Morocco relationship is centuries old and has never been more relevant,” said Rep. Schneider. “From joint military exercises to trilateral cooperation with Israel, Morocco plays a vital role in advancing our shared interests in stability, prosperity, and peace. We were grateful for the chance to have an open and strategic dialogue with Foreign Minister Bourita about the opportunities and challenges facing the region.”

Coming up on 5 years since Morocco established full ties with Israel and the US recognized Moroccan sovereignty over the Western Sahara, Members of Congress and the Foreign Minister discussed the future of the bilateral relationship, as well as the trilateral relationship with Israel.

The roundtable highlighted recent progress in the U.S.-Morocco-Israel trilateral dialogue, which serves as a platform for collaboration on issues such as trade, energy, water, and regional security. Members also discussed the deepening U.S.-Morocco bilateral relationship, which includes robust military, economic, and diplomatic cooperation.

Morocco’s hosting of African Lion, the largest annual joint military exercise on the African continent, was spotlighted as a key example of U.S.-Morocco defense partnership and multilateral coordination in North Africa.

Members also discussed US recognition of Morocco’s sovereignty over the Western Sahara, the evolving international diplomatic context, and the potential consequences for long-term regional stability.

The Abraham Accords Caucus is committed to advancing normalization, supporting U.S. diplomacy, and fostering long-term partnerships that contribute to peace, opportunity, and integration across the Middle East and North Africa.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Suzanne Bonamici (1st District Oregon)

Lawmakers press Trump’s Department of Education about its abrupt halt of funding for state governments and school districts that adds an unnecessary hurdle to reimbursement and will harm students following the pandemic.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Brendan Boyle (13th District of Pennsylvania)

PHILADELPHIA, PA – Yesterday, Congressman Brendan F. Boyle (PA-02) held a press conference to sound the alarm about the catastrophic consequences that the Medicaid cuts proposed by President Trump and Republicans in Congress would have in Philadelphia. He was joined by Susan Post, Chief Executive Officer of Esperanza Health Center, and Suzanne O’Grady Laurito, Director of Catholic Housing and Community Services at the Archdiocese of Philadelphia.

At the press conference, Congressman Boyle, Ranking Member of the House Budget Committee, warned that the Republican budget would make the largest Medicaid cuts in US history, even as it proposes massive handouts for billionaires. The event also spotlighted the story of a 64-year-old Navy veteran from Northeast Philadelphia who receives in-home care through Medicaid, allowing him to live with dignity.

“In Philadelphia, well over half a million people get their health care from Medicaid. This is the greatest threat to Medicaid in the history of its existence. And why? To pay for tax cuts for the top 1% — it is absolutely unconscionable,” said Congressman Boyle. “The bill that already passed out of the House of Representatives included over $800 billion worth of cuts to Medicaid — the largest cuts to Medicaid in American history. Now the good news is that that was just the beginning of the process, not the end of it. As soon  as we’re done here, I will be hopping on a train to go to Washington, DC, where as the Ranking Member of the Budget Committee, I have been asked to lead the opposition to these Medicaid cuts.”

“In the geographical area that Esparanza takes care of, which is about a three-mile radius from here, we have a population that’s almost 400,000 people. And of those 400,000, almost 200,000 of them rely on Medicaid insurance for all of their health care needs,” said Susan Post, Chief Executive Officer of Esperanza Health Center. “I also live in North Philly. I’ve lived here 25 years. These are not just a statistic, these are actual people, people that I love … thank you so much, Congressman Boyle, for your concern about this important, devastating situation for us here in North Philadelphia.”

“Medicaid is not just a health care program, although that is critical, but it is a lifeline for many we serve. It’s the thread that holds stability, independence, and dignity together,” said Suzanne O’Grady Laurito, Director of Catholic Housing and Community Services at the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. “We stand with Congressman Boyle today to protect and preserve Medicaid. It’s not just a program. It’s a promise.”

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08)

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) released the following statement after Senator Tina Smith (D-MN) introduced legislation to enact a moratorium on copper-nickel mining in the Superior National Forest. 

“I am disappointed yet not surprised that another harmful piece of pro-China legislation has been introduced by an out of touch Democrat trying to prevent the responsible development of the Duluth Complex. If this last election taught us anything, it’s that Democrats have lost the confidence of working Americans, and legislation like this is a large reason for that. 

“Not only would critical mineral mining in northern Minnesota create good-paying union jobs and revitalize our economy, but it would provide much-needed funding for every school district in Minnesota and reduce our nation’s dependence on foreign adversaries like China. It is offensive to oppose these worthy goals.

“With the introduction of this legislation, Senator Smith has once again proven herself to be anti-union. Fortunately, Senator Smith is in the minority and retiring soon, so any chance of this legislation becoming law is virtually impossible.”

Recently, Stauber reintroduced his Superior National Forest Restoration Act, legislation to overturn the Biden administration’s harmful mineral withdrawal of 225,504 acres in the Superior National Forest, restore long-held mineral leases, and ensure timely reviews of Mine Plans of Operation. 

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08)

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) made the following statement after attending the Unleashing American Energy Event at the White House, where President Donald Trump signed an Executive Order to reinvigorate America’s coal industry.

“Coal is one of the most reliable and abundant sources of energy available to us, yet the previous administration did nearly everything in their power to eliminate the coal industry,” said Representative Stauber. “I applaud President Trump for taking decisive action to end Biden’s war on coal and boost America’s energy independence. This Executive Order represents a significant victory for American miners, many of whom are returning to work, and for American consumers, who will benefit from lower energy prices soon. The Golden Age of America is truly underway.”

President Trump’s Executive Order on coal does the following:

• Designates coal as a critical mineral.
• Directs agencies to identify coal resources on federal lands, lift barriers to coal mining, and prioritize coal leasing on these lands.
• Directs the Secretary of the Interior to acknowledge the end of the Jewell Moratorium, which paused coal leasing on federal lands.
• Requires agencies to rescind any agency policy that seeks to transition the nation away from coal production.
• Directs CEQ to assist agencies in adopting coal-related categorical exclusions under NEPA.
• Seeks to promote coal and coal technology exports, facilitate international offtake agreements for U.S. coal, and accelerate development of coal technologies.
• Calls the Secretary of Energy to determine whether coal used in the production of steel meets the definition of a “critical mineral” and “critical material” under the Energy Act of 2020, and if so, add it to the relevant lists.
• Pushes for using coal to power new artificial intelligence (AI) data.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Ilhan Omar (DFL-MN)

Pair of Bills Would Address Pushout of Black Girls, Invest in Counselors and End Over-Policing of Public K-12 Schools