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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Dan Newhouse (4th District of Washington)

Headline: What They Are Saying: Lawmakers, Industry Groups Applaud Newhouse's "Build More Hydro" Legislation Passing House

Press Release
For Immediate Release: April 22, 2026
Contact: Juan Ayala, (202) 713-7750

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Lawmakers and industry groups who rely on hydropower released statements applauding the House passage of S. 1020, the Senate companion to Rep. Newhouse’s HR. 2072.

Chairman of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce Brett Guthrie said, “As we work to secure our grid and unleash American energy, hydropower can deliver affordable and reliable electricity to American families. Today’s passage of the ‘Build More Hydro’ bill provides the essential permitting reform needed to ensure that the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) can extend construction deadlines for critical hydropower projects in communities across the country.”

Chairman of the House Subcommittee on Energy Bob Latta said, “Hydropower remains one of the cornerstones of America’s energy system, delivering reliable baseload power to roughly 30 million homes and businesses and providing nearly 40 percent of our black start capacity. The House passage of S. 1020 is an important step forward, giving FERC the flexibility to extend construction timelines for key projects that were delayed by pandemic-era supply chain disruptions and shutdowns.”

Congressman Michael Baumgartner (WA-05) said, “Everyone agrees – we need more energy, not less. I’m proud to be an original cosponsor on the House version of the ‘Build More Hydro’ bill, so we can focus on moving forward developing viable energy sources – not backward. This legislation is a critical component for hydropower development, and this vote shows that Congress strongly supports the construction and maintenance of our dams.”

Congressman Russ Fulcher (ID-01) said, “I am proud to be an original co-sponsor of H.R. 2072, the Build More Hydro Act. Hydropower is foundational to the Northwest’s power system, providing nearly 50 percent of our annual electricity generation. I am glad to see this legislation clear the House, ensuring this source of affordable, clean, and reliable energy remains available to communities across our region.”

Malcolm Woolf, President and CEO, National Hydropower Association said, “In an era of rising demand and new challenges for the energy sector, we need to get every megawatt of reliable hydropower on the grid possible. NHA has worked hard to get this bill across the finish line, and it should come as no surprise why; the 37 projects this legislation supports are more than just 2,600 MWs of baseload power and $6.5 billion in private sector investment. They also mean good jobs for communities that need them, reliable energy that powers local economies, lower energy bills for consumers, and a lot more. I thank Rep. Newhouse, Sen. Daines, and their colleagues for working alongside us to get this bill passed in the House, and I can’t wait to see it become law.”

Kurt Miller, CEO & Executive Director of the Northwest Public Power Association (NWPPA) said, “Hydropower is one of our nation’s greatest energy assets and is critical to a clean, reliable, and affordable electric grid. But licensed projects should not be lost because of delays, inflation, and supply chain challenges outside developers’ control. NWPPA applauds Rep. Newhouse’s leadership to keep these projects moving and ensure hydropower remains a vital part of America’s energy future.”

Paul Jacob, CEO of Rye Development said, “Hydropower delivers reliable, baseload energy that keeps the lights on throughout the county. Thanks to Rep. Newhouse, projects delayed by the COVID pandemic will get a second chance to create thousands of jobs, spur economic development, and support a more resilient grid.”

Clark Mather, Executive Director of the Northwest RiverPartners said, “We are grateful for the leadership of Representative Newhouse and Senator Daines on important legislation that creates more certainty for hydropower project developers. Hydropower is the Northwest’s largest source of affordable, reliable electricity. This common-sense legislation provides greater stability and confidence as we work to meet our growing energy needs.”

David Reeploeg, Vice President of Federal Programs at TRIDEC, Tri-City Development Council said, “At a time when energy demand is rapidly increasing, the “Build More Hydro” bill takes an important step toward expanding reliable, affordable hydropower. This legislation will help drive economic growth and job creation while strengthening our nation’s energy security. Throughout his time in Congress, Dan Newhouse has consistently championed hydropower, and we appreciate his leadership in advancing solutions like this.”

Desmarie Waterhouse, Senior Vice President, Advocacy & Communications and General Counsel, American Public Power Association said, “The American Public Power Association applauds Congress for passing S. 1020, the “Build More Hydro Act.” This bipartisan legislation would allow hydropower owners to petition the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to extend a hydropower license for an additional six years if that license was issued before March 13, 2020. Without legislative action, nearly 40 unconstructed and FERC-licensed hydropower projects are at risk of termination, representing more than 2.6 gigawatts of baseload power. The Build More Hydro Act will make full use of these key resources to ensure that the nation’s grid remains reliable and resilient for the millions of people who rely on hydropower to provide affordable power generation. We encourage President Trump to sign the legislation into law expeditiously.”  

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

Headline: Carter issues statement on wildfire in Brantley County

Carter issues statement on wildfire in Brantley County

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

Headline: Carter-led bill passes House to improve health care access in rural America

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) this week celebrated House passage of the Improving Care in Rural America Reauthorization Act of 2025, a bill that extends critical programs that increase access to health care services in rural communities.

Rural residents often encounter barriers to accessing health care, including workforce shortages, distance and transportation issues, facility closures, and health insurance coverage. These roadblocks result in unmet health care needs for rural Americans, leading to a 43 percent higher mortality rate compared to those living in cities and suburbs.

By reauthorizing Rural Health Services Outreach programs, this bill will increase access to health care services and preventive screenings, improve chronic disease management and health outcomes, expand telehealth services, and reduce emergency department visits for the nearly 500,000 individuals who receive direct services from these programs annually.

“Health care outcomes should not depend on a patient’s zip code. However, this is the reality for millions of Americans living in rural communities, said Rep. Carter. “Rural Health Care Services Outreach Programs address this issue, expanding vitally important health services to reach people in all communities. I thank my colleagues for their support in reauthorizing these critical programs to address the chronic health care needs of rural communities through flexible, community-driven solutions.”

Read bill text here.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Joe Neguse (D-Co 2)

Lafayette, CO — Colorado Congressman Joe Neguse announced that $4.28 million in federal funding for the Global Monitoring Lab (GML) housed at NOAA in Boulder has been released by the U.S. Office of Management and Budget (OMB). The funds have been received by the Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Science (CIRES) and allow work to resume and furlough notices to be rescinded after a weekslong funding lapse began on March 24, 2026. 

Neguse and his office pressed the Department of Commerce and Federal officials to ensure continued support for the Cooperative Institutes (CIs), underscoring the important role they play both in Colorado and across the nation. The Congressman also forcefully condemned budget cuts proposed by the Trump administration to the agency that would gut support for vital atmospheric and climate science research.  

“The Cooperative Institute for Research in Environmental Sciences (CIRES) is not only vital to our state, employing hundreds of folks in Colorado, but to our country, advancing research that protects millions across the nation through research on weather, drought, and fire events. The critical work these folks are doing each and every day cannot be overstated, and the heeding of our call to release funds that allow for their work to continue is an important step forward,” said Congressman Neguse. 

“We must continue to push for reversal of any plans to eliminate funding for these critical institutions or diminish the strength of our national labs, and stand strongly opposed to reckless and short-sighted proposals that undermine American science research.” 

During the Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) appropriations process, Rep. Neguse succeeded in protecting funding for vital programs at NOAA in the Commerce, Justice, Science (CJS); Energy and Water Development; and Interior and Environment Appropriations Act. He continues to lead the charge in the fight to protect the National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) from outrageous and unlawful attempts by the Trump administration to dismantle the cutting-edge institution. 

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Zoe Lofgren (D-San Jose)

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren (D-CA) released the following statement on the passing of Congressman David Scott (D-GA):

I’m saddened by the passing of my colleague, David Scott from Georgia. We worked together during his time as House Ag Chair to support America’s farmers, ranchers, and farmworkers. My thoughts are with his family and his constituents at this time.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Salud Carbajal (CA-24)

U.S. Representative Salud Carbajal (D-CA), along with U.S. Representatives Gabe Evans (R-CO), Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA), and Mike Ezell (R-MS), introduced the bipartisan Commission on Natural Disaster Risk Management and Insurance Act, a bill to create a nonpartisan commission to study natural disaster insurance affordability and report policy recommendations to Congress within two years.

Read the full text of the legislation here.

As economic losses from natural disasters have increased, homeowners’ and business insurance costs have risen. Meanwhile, availability has declined, leading to a growing insurance coverage gap.

“As extreme weather drives insurance costs higher and pushes coverage out of reach for too many families and small businesses, the bipartisan Commission on Natural Disaster Risk Management and Insurance Act will give Congress the clear roadmap we need to strengthen access to affordable, reliable insurance,” said Rep. Carbajal. “The increasing frequency of billion-dollar natural disasters demands that we proactively confront the growing insurance coverage gaps, and this bipartisan effort is an important step toward doing exactly that.”

“Across Colorado, homeowners are facing rising insurance prices as providers are driven out of the state and forced to pull back coverage — leaving behind thousands of families in high-risk natural disasters areas searching for new plans. I’m proud to co-lead this bipartisan effort to combat the surge in expensive policies and help protect access to affordable, reliable insurance that Coloradans and Americans deserve,” said Rep. Evans.

“Louisiana families and businesses are facing a crisis of rising homeowners and flood insurance premiums, worsening our housing affordability issues. We’ve seen premiums skyrocket, forcing families to make impossible choices between protecting their homes and paying for groceries, healthcare, or their children’s education. This expert commission will provide Congress with data and recommendations needed to tackle this emergency so that generations of Louisianians can afford to work and live in the place we proudly call home,” said Rep. Carter.

“As communities like those along the Gulf Coast know all too well, natural disasters don’t just threaten lives — they threaten livelihoods,” said Rep. Ezell. “Families and small businesses are facing rising insurance costs and fewer coverage options, creating real financial uncertainty. This bipartisan commission will help us take a closer look at the challenges in our insurance markets and identify practical solutions to ensure Americans can access affordable, reliable coverage when they need it most.”

The Senate Joint Economic Committee reported that roughly 70% of Americans stated that their community experienced an extreme weather event in 2023. Between 2019 and 2023, the average annual cost of billion-dollar disasters in the United States was $120.6 billion, more than double the 44-year inflation-adjusted annual average.

For many Americans whose home or small business is their largest financial asset, growing insurance gaps and reduced coverage pose a vital risk to their financial health. Underinsurance also poses a risk to local governments whose tax bases rely largely on property values.

The Commission on Natural Disaster Risk Management and Insurance Act would represent a step toward protecting homeowners, small businesses, and local governments from the growing insurance gaps.

In developing the report, the commission would be directed to:

• Assess the current state of natural disaster insurance markets in the U.S.
• Identify gaps in coverage and affordability challenges, especially for vulnerable populations and high-risk areas.
• Evaluate the role of the federal government to improve insurance access and reduce costs.

The commission’s membership would include representatives from:

• Insurance industry
• State insurance regulators
• Emergency management experts
• Academic Institutions and researchers in climate and risk management

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

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Andy Harris, M.D. (MD-01) applauded the U.S. Air Force’s decision to preserve the A-10 Thunderbolt II program through 2030, halting more than a decade of efforts to retire the aircraft.

Air Force Secretary Troy E. Meink said the decision preserves combat power as the Defense Industrial Base works to increase combat aircraft production. The A-10 continues to provide critical close air support and direct protection to U.S. troops on the ground.

Statement from Congressman Harris:

“We are pleased that the A-10 program is now being extended. The Maryland Guard has extensive experience to bring to the table, and we are in contact with the Office of the Air Force Secretary to urge them to bring A-10s back to Maryland so our airmen can help defend the nation.”

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

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

Washington, D.C. – In a new op-ed in the Washington Times, Congressman Randy Weber (TX-14) outlined why pipeline cybersecurity must be treated as a national priority in the face of growing cyber threats. Rep. Weber detailed how vulnerabilities in America’s energy infrastructure pose serious risks to economic stability and national security, emphasizing the need for stronger coordination and preparedness to protect the systems that power our country.

In case you missed it…

In the Face of Growing Cyber Threats, Pipeline Security Must be a Priority
Washington Times
Congressman Randy Weber
April 22, 2026

In Ma 2021, Americans received a stark reminder that the infrastructure powering our country is not immune to attack.

A ransomware group known as DarkSide infiltrated the computer systems of the Colonial Pipeline, the largest refined fuel pipeline in the United States. Out of caution, the company shut down operations across its entire system while it worked to contain the breach.

The consequences were felt almost immediately.

Colonial Pipeline operates a 5,500-mile network stretching from Texas to New Jersey, carrying gasoline, diesel and jet fuel to markets across the eastern United States. Every day, the system moves roughly 2.5 million barrels of fuel, supplying nearly 45% of the gasoline and diesel consumed along the East Coas.

When that system stopped moving fuel, even temporarily, the effects rippled across more than 12,000 gas stations and impacted tens of millions of Americans.

Within days of the shutdown, drivers lined up for miles to fill their tanks, and panic-buying spread across several states. The national average gasoline price climbed to levels not seen since 2014, while some states saw increases of more than 20 cents in a single week.

For many Americans, it was the first time they realized just how much their daily lives depend on energy infrastructure that operates quietly in the background.

But what made the Colonial Pipeline attack particularly alarming was not just the disruption itself; it was how it happened.

The attackers never physically touched the pipeline.

Cybercriminals believed to be operating out of Russia gained access to Colonial’s computer network using a compromised password and deployed ransomware designed to lock the company out of its own systems until a ransom payment was made.

In other words, criminals thousands of miles away disrupted one of the most critical energy systems in the United States using nothing more than a laptop and malicious code.

That reality should concern every American. The Colonial Pipeline attack revealed that the systems we depend on every day are no longer threatened solely by physical sabotage or traditional acts of war; They are also vulnerable in cyberspace.

Energy infrastructure has always been vital to the strength of our economy, but the 2021 Colonial Pipeline attack showed just how equally important it is to our national security. Pipelines move the fuel that powers our cars, trucks, airplanes, farms and factories. Refineries turn crude oil into the gasoline and diesel that keep commerce moving. Ports and terminals carry that energy to communities across the country and markets around the world.

The Colonial Pipeline attack revealed what happens when one link in that chain is disrupted. Brief interruptions to a single system can spread quickly across the country. When fuel deliveries slow, transportation costs rise. When prices increase, families feel it at the pump. And when uncertainty spreads across energy markets, the effects are felt throughout the broader economy.

Nearly five years later, the lesson learned from the Colonial Pipeline attack is undeniable: cybersecurity is inseparable from energy and national security.

President Donald Trump’s Cyber Strategy for America recognizes this reality and places securing critical infrastructure at the center of our national cyber posture. One of the strategy’s key priorities is Pillar Four: Secure Critical Infrastructure. This pillar focuses on identifying, prioritizing, and hardening the systems that power our country, including pipelines, energy grids and the digital networks that support them.

That same mission is driving action in Congress.

My Pipeline Cybersecurity Preparedness Act, a bipartisan effort with Rep. Debbie Dingell, D-Mich., designates the Department of Energy to lead pipeline cybersecurity preparedness and response, strengthen coordination and improve information-sharing, all without adding new regulatory burdens.

Because what we saw in 2021 cannot happen again.

The United States possesses one of the most advanced and productive energy systems in the world. From the energy fields of Texas and the refining complexes along the Gulf Coast to the pipelines that move fuel to communities across the country, this network remains a pillar of American strength.

But if we are going to retain that strength, we must remain vigilant in cyberspace.

The infrastructure that powers America must be protected with the same seriousness we devote to protecting the nation itself.

That means strengthening cybersecurity across our energy infrastructure now. Not tomorrow. Today.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Kim Schrier, M.D. (WA-08)

ICYMI: Yesterday, at an Energy and Commerce Health Subcommittee hearing, Congresswoman Kim Schrier, M.D. (WA-08), the first pediatrician elected to Congress and chair of the Democratic Doctors Caucus, blasted Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for his refusal to take accountability for growing distrust in vitamin K shots for newborns, and his undermining of vaccine efficacy and safety.

“Vitamin K prevents catastrophic brain bleeds, and now that you’ve made parents distrust doctors and shots, some parents are now refusing the vitamin K shot and other routine care, putting these babies at risk for bleeding out. This has a name, it’s called the ‘RFK Jr. Spillover Effect’: You spread misinformation, you scare parents and confuse them, parents don’t immunize their children or give them other routine care and then the kids get sick and they might even die,” Congresswoman Schrier said. 

She continued: “This is going to be your legacy: The HHS Secretary that caused kids to die. You’re secretary of HHS, your job is to protect us and you are putting kids in danger and I believe you should resign or you should be fired.”

To watch Congresswoman Schrier’s full remarks, click here.

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

WASHINGTON — Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL), a senior member of the House Oversight Committee, today reintroduced the Baby Food Safety Act of 2026, legislation to establish enforceable limits on toxic heavy metals in infant and toddler food and strengthen testing and transparency requirements for manufacturers. The legislation is co-sponsored by Representatives Melanie Stansbury (D-NM), Seth Magaziner (D-RI), Emilia Sykes (D-OH), Rashida Tlaib (D-MI), Rosa DeLauro (D-CT), Madeleine Dean (D-PA), and Ted Lieu (D-CA), as well as Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC).

“For years, parents have been forced to navigate a marketplace where too many baby foods contain dangerous levels of toxic heavy metals, and the federal government has not acted quickly or effectively to fix it,” said Congressman Krishnamoorthi. “Our legislation sets clear, enforceable limits, puts real deadlines on the FDA, and requires rigorous testing and transparency from manufacturers. Parents must be able to trust that the food they’re feeding their children is safe.”

The legislation builds on Congressman Krishnamoorthi’s groundbreaking congressional investigation that uncovered dangerously high levels of toxic heavy metals in leading baby food products and helped spur federal action on the issue.

The Baby Food Safety Act would require the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to set limits on dangerous contaminants—including lead, cadmium, mercury, and arsenic—in baby food, while mandating regular testing, recordkeeping, and accountability across the industry. The legislation improves the FDA’s “Closer to Zero” initiative by establishing enforceable timelines and a structured process to drive continuous reductions in toxic exposure. It also complements state-level laws that require testing and public disclosure of contaminant levels.

Stakeholder Support

“Unleaded Kids strongly supports the Baby Food Safety Act provides a framework for FDA to fulfill its long overdue promise in its Closer to Zero. It establishes a process and deadlines that will drive continuous improvement. It also complements the state laws that require baby food companies to test each lot of each of their products and make the results publicly available. We applaud Congressman Krishnamoorthi for his continued leadership on this important children’s health issue.” — Tom Neltner, National Director of Unleaded Kids

“We know that food companies can reduce toxic metals because they’ve done so before – when FDA has set tough standards. Today, 10,000 babies will start eating solid food, so we have no more time to waste if we want to protect our babies’ brains. Thank goodness Congressman Krishnamoorthi’s leadership. Without laws, we can’t count on the FDA to act.” — Scott Faber, Senior Vice President, Government Affairs, Environmental Working Group.

“The need to establish public health limits on toxic elements in baby food is long overdue,” said Brian Ronholm, Director of Food Policy at Consumer Reports. “Parents and caregivers need assurances that the food they feed their babies won’t increase health risks. Consumer Reports commends Rep. Krishnamoorthi for his continued work on this issue.”

The bill is also endorsed by the Environmental Defense Fund.

Baby Food Safety Act Summary

The Baby Food Safety Act of 2026 would:

• Establish enforceable limits on toxic heavy metals—including lead, arsenic, cadmium, and mercury—in infant and toddler food. 

• Require the FDA to set these limits within specific, time-bound deadlines and update them regularly based on the latest science. 

• Mandate routine sampling and testing of baby food products by manufacturers, including finished products. 

• Require manufacturers to maintain records and make testing data available to regulators to ensure compliance. 

• Strengthen FDA enforcement authority and oversight of both domestic and imported baby food products. 

• Support ongoing review and improvement of standards to further reduce toxic exposure over time.

The text of the legislation is available here.