Bonamici, Valadao, Bacon Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Provide Rides to Sobering Centers, Support Services

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

WASHINGTON, DC [6/5/26] – Representatives Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), David Valadao (R-CA), and Don Bacon (R-NE) introduced bipartisan legislation to provide safe transportation to aid for people experiencing substance use and mental health challenges.

The Connections to Health Infrastructure and Emergency Recovery Services (CHIERS) Act would create a grant program to fund rides to sobering centers, behavioral health providers, and other supportive services, including outpatient health services, case management, and mental health services. The legislation is inspired by the van service that the health and housing nonprofit Central City Concern provided for years to transport people in need to a sobering center in Portland, Oregon.

“People shouldn’t be held back from getting the care they need because they do not have a way to get there,” said Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici. “For years people in Portland benefitted from the CHIERS van, which helped transport people in need to sobering centers. I’m working with my bipartisan colleagues to expand on this model and make rides to treatment available to more people across the country who are intoxicated or at risk.”  

“In the Central Valley, we’ve seen firsthand the devastating impact of the opioid epidemic,” said Congressman Valadao. “Too often, people seeking treatment in our communities face long travel times, high transportation costs, and difficulty receiving timely care. We should be doing everything we can to make it easier for people suffering from substance use disorder to get the help they need and break the cycle of addiction. I’m proud to help introduce the bipartisan CHIERS Act to remove barriers to treatment and expand access to timely, life-saving care.” 

“Everyone deserves a second chance,” said Rep. Bacon. “The CHIERS Act will improve access to developing services that provide individuals with transportation to and from substance use disorder treatments or support services. This program will help thousands of citizens get the help they need, and I’m grateful to work with Rep. Bonamici on this important effort.” 

“Central City Concern (CCC) is proud and honored to see the legacy of a long-running former CCC program recognized through the CHIERS Act. Communities across the country will benefit from dedicated funding to support transportation to essential services such as outpatient care, behavioral health counseling, and mental health treatment. This investment is especially meaningful for individuals navigating their recovery journeys, helping ensure they can access the care, support, and services they need along the way,” said Dr. Andy Mendenhall, President and CEO of Central City Concern in Portland, Oregon.

Funding from the CHERS Act could be used to train staff, purchase vehicles, and contract with ridesharing services to cover transportation. The grant program would be run jointly through the Department of Health and Human Services and the Department of Housing and Urban Development, and eligible entities include community health centers, Continuum of Care Program participants, opioid recovery centers, state, Tribal and local governments, and nonprofit organizations.

The legislation is endorsed by Central City Concern, National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), Drug Policy Alliance, and Uber.

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Rep. Adams, House Democrats Force Vote to End Trump’s Costly and Deadly Iran War

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

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Wednesday night, Congresswoman Alma S. Adams, Ph.D. (NC-12) and House Democrats supported the passage of a war powers resolution to end President Trump’s costly war with Iran. For over 90 days, the Trump administration has waged war on Iran without a defined exit strategy or congressional authorization, dragging our country further into Trump’s self-declared war of choice and a deepening financial crisis.

“This vote reaffirms the Constitutional principle that only Congress can declare war. Four Republicans joined House Democrats to pass legislation to end Trump’s war in Iran and rein in this president’s risky, expensive war,” said Congresswoman Adams. “While families in North Carolina are struggling with climbing costs in grocery stores and gas stations, the Pentagon is estimating that the war in Iran has already cost an estimated $25 billion — money that could be better spent on SNAP, federal education and job development programs, or medical research. The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) costs $7.3 billion annually. We could triple the number of children that program cares for with the amount of money this administration has wasted on this war.”

“The people of North Carolina’s 12th District want lower costs, accessible healthcare, and affordable housing — not an endless war. House Democrats are working hard to make our constituents’ lives safer, healthier, and more affordable while holding this out-of-control administration accountable.”

Underwood Releases Report on Her Farm Conservation Law

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Lauren Underwood (IL-14)

WASHINGTON – Today, Rep. Lauren Underwood released a new report detailing the impact and success of her Farmers Fighting Climate Change Act since the legislation was signed into law four years ago. Since 2022, the law made sure farmers are paid for their contributions to our nation’s climate solutions and has led to a substantial increase in conservation on American farmland nationwide.

“Five years ago, I introduced the Farmers Fighting Climate Change Act after hearing from so many Illinois farmers who are facing flooding, delayed planting, and a need for better tools to fight our climate crisis. As we continue our work to support our agricultural communities, I am so proud to share this report on the success of the Farmers Fighting Climate Change Act,” said Representative Lauren Underwood. “This law is making a real impact on the ground, lowering costs, and helping farmers transition to sustainable farming practices that build resilience, improve soil health, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.”

The Farmers Fighting Climate Change Act expanded the resources available to farmers through the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP). The legislation was signed into law as part of the Inflation Reduction Act in 2022, and its impact is now reaching producers and improving climate resilience across agricultural communities.

Under the Farmers Fighting Climate Change Act:

  • More than $3.25 billion in funding was made available to farmers for sustainable farming practices. So far, more than $620 million has been allocated.
  • More than 11 million acres of American farmland have enrolled in climate-smart conservation efforts.
  • Farmers in Illinois have so far received more than $65 million to support conservation efforts on their land.

Read the full report on how the Farmer’s Fighting Climate Act is building a more sustainable future for American Agriculture here.

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Rep. Neguse Receives Public Service Award for Leadership in Protecting Public Lands, Parks, and Water Resources

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

Washington, D.C. — Colorado Congressman Joe Neguse was awarded the National Park Trust’s prestigious Bruce F. Vento Public Service Award, an annual national award that recognizes an elected official for exemplary service, skill, and innovation in protecting and preserving America’s public lands and waters.

Neguse, who serves as Ranking Member of the House Natural Resources Committee’s Federal Lands Subcommittee, received the award for his efforts toward protecting the environment and safeguarding public lands. His dedicated leadership has led to the creation of the Camp Hale-Continental Divide National Monument and the Amache National Historic Site—both in Colorado. Neguse has also authored laws to expand access to outdoor recreation, protect our public lands and wildlife, secure pay increases for Federal wildland firefighters, and more. 

The Colorado Congressman was named the most effective Democratic member of the U.S. House of Representatives in both environment and public lands policy areas for the 118th Congress. 

“Colorado’s public lands are part of the spirit of our great state, and I believe there has never been a more important time to stand up for protecting and preserving these treasured spaces for future generations,” said Congressman Neguse. “As a kid growing up in the West, spending time outdoors was an integral part of my life—and my appreciation for our public lands is something I’ve proudly carried with me during my time in Congress, fighting to advance legislation that safeguards our nation’s lands, waters, and natural resources. I’m honored to receive this year’s Bruce F. Vento Public Service Award for this work and will continue advancing proposals that act in the best interest of all of our hunters, ranchers, fishermen, recreationists, conservationists, and outdoor enthusiasts.”

Over the course of the last year, Neguse played a key role in ultimately putting a stop to Congressional Republicans’ plot to sell off millions of acres of America’s public lands. He used his platform to expose the last-minute move to force the sale as part of the so-called “One, Big, Beautiful Bill Act” and worked across party lines to build a bipartisan coalition in opposition to provisions that would’ve permitted the widespread sale or transfer of treasures spaces across the Rocky Mountain West. 

“National Park Trust is proud to recognize Congressman Joe Neguse with the bipartisan Bruce F. Vento Public Service Award,” said Scott Stone, Board Chair of the National Park Trust. “He joins a distinguished group of leaders from both parties whose commitment to conservation has strengthened our nation’s parks and public lands. His dedication to protecting these treasured places makes him a deserving recipient of this honor.” 

Sue Vento, National Park Trust Advisory Board Member shared, “U.S. Representative Joe Neguse is a tireless advocate for our public lands, national parks, and water resources. His wisdom and passion plus his fierce determination to protect our most treasured assets merit great and celebrated recognition.” 

The National Park Trust established the Bruce F. Vento Public Service Award in 2001 to honor the memory and legacy of Bruce F. Vento, a twelve-term Minnesota congressman and former chair of the National Resources Subcommittee on National Parks,  Forests, and Public Lands. As a dedicated environmentalist, Vento championed more than 300 bills protecting our nation’s public lands and water.  

Find additional information about the award and a list of previous recipients HERE

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LEADER JEFFRIES ON CNN: “WHY DOES DONALD TRUMP ALWAYS HAVE TO RUIN A GOOD THING?”

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Hakeem Jeffries (8th District of New York)


JOHN BERMAN:
 Joining me now is the top Democrat in the House, Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries. Leader Jeffries, thank you so much for being with us this morning. You now have this $70 billion bill in front of you that funds ICE fully for the next few years. What recourse do you have?

LEADER JEFFRIES: House Democrats are going to strongly oppose this effort to spend $70 billion in taxpayer funds on continuing to provide support for an ICE agency that the American people know is out of control. At the end of the day, right, taxpayer dollars should be used to make life more affordable for the American people, particularly in an environment where the cost of living is far too high. Instead, what Republicans want to do is use $70 billion to continue to unleash masked and untrained ICE agents on American citizens, in some cases brutalizing or killing them, as was the case in Minnesota, or target violently law-abiding immigrant families. It’s unacceptable and we’re going to fight it to the very end.

JOHN BERMAN: As for the $1.8 billion compensation fund, some people call it a retribution fund, the President calls it anti-weaponization. There’s been a lot of talk among even some Republicans about trying to legislate it out of even the possibility of existence. In the end, they didn’t. What’s your view there of why they were not able to get that done, and what will you do about that now?

LEADER JEFFRIES: It was a close fight in the Senate. Unfortunately, the effort to permanently ban the $1.8 billion corrupt slush fund that Donald Trump is trying to visit upon the American people in such an out-of-control fashion, it fell just short. But in the House, we’re going to work incredibly hard to permanently ban it legislatively because this administration, this President, this Acting Attorney General, can’t be trusted to do the right thing on behalf of the American people. The notion that anyone who violently beat police officers on January 6 should get a dime of taxpayer dollars is so abhorrent to the American people, we’re going to fight it tooth and nail in the House of Representatives. We’ll introduce amendments to permanently ban it. It may be on life support, according to some. We’ve got to permanently pull the plug.

JOHN BERMAN: Leader Jeffries, I know this is the other chamber, but Maine Democratic Senate candidate Graham Platner—there’s a new story in the New York Times where there are allegations of physically threatening behavior by him against at least one former girlfriend. I want to play you his response to that story. Let’s listen.

RECORDING OF GRAHAM PLATNER: There are some allegations in this piece that I just want to be kind of unequivocal about are simply not true. Anything alleging physicality, anything alleging that I knew what my tattoo was, these are the statements of someone who is politically motivated.

JOHN BERMAN: Now, Congressman Ro Khanna, who is part of your conference, is going to campaign with him tonight. He says that Platner—the alleged behavior is wrong and toxic, but still going to campaign with him. What would be your advice to House Democrats about whether or not they should support Graham Platner?

LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, let me say more generally, violence against women in any way, shape or form is completely and totally unacceptable. And that should be clear to everyone, and everyone needs to draw that bright line in the sand. In terms of the allegations that have been waged with respect to this particular candidate for the Senate, I haven’t followed it closely. I will continue to defer to Leader Schumer and Senator Gillibrand in terms of the best path forward in Maine. I haven’t had a conversation with Ro Khanna about this. Listen, John, we’re focused on trying to take back control of the House of Representatives so we can actually serve as a check-and-balance on an out-of-control administration and focus on the things that matter to the American people, like driving down the high cost of living, fixing our broken healthcare system and cleaning up corruption here in Washington, DC.

JOHN BERMAN: He denies the behavior—we played that sound—but you also just said that any violence of women is unacceptable. Does that mean if it is in any way proven to be true, it should be disqualified?

LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, let’s cross that bridge when we get to it.

JOHN BERMAN: Congressman, I want to play some sound. Kate Bolduan, my co-anchor, esteemed co-anchor, had an interview with Congressman Seth Moulton from Massachusetts yesterday. He’s running for Senate in Massachusetts, but he also has some comments about the Democratic establishment in general. I want you to listen to what he said.

RECORDING OF REP. MOULTON: I think there comes a time to pass the torch to the next generation, and what better time than when the Democratic establishment is just not getting it done? I mean, if you honestly are a Democrat today who says Democrats are knocking it out of the park, we’re winning all across the board, we shouldn’t change a thing, then vote for the establishment, vote for Chuck Schumer, vote for the status quo.

JOHN BERMAN: What do you say to the suggestion that the Democratic establishment—you are the House Leader of Democrats—the Democrat establishment is not getting it done?

LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, we’re continuing to work hard in the House of Representatives to do what’s necessary to both push back against the extremism that Donald Trump is unleashing against the American people and to chart a path forward that actually is designed to make life better for working-class Americans, middle-class Americans and hardworking American taxpayers. Just this week, House Democrats were successful in passing a War Powers Resolution to end Donald Trump’s reckless and costly war of choice that hasn’t made the American people safer. Iran is in a stronger position now than what they were prior to the start of this war, and of course, this war is increasing gas prices and putting economic pressure on the American people. We’re continuing to do what we need to do aggressively to push back against Donald Trump. We’ve been winning races for the last 16 months, but we have a task ahead of us that we have to accomplish. And ultimately, I think we’ll be judged by whether we take back control of the House in November. That’s what we intend to do.

JOHN BERMAN: Other big items. Game two of the NBA finals tonight in San Antonio. Game three will be next week in New York City. President Trump says he plans to attend. What do you think the reception will be?

LEADER JEFFRIES:I’m not sure it’s going to be a good reception for him, but why does Donald Trump always have to ruin a good thing? Like, literally, the Knicks haven’t been in the NBA finals for 27 years. The city is trying to celebrate this. We’ve embraced this team, and this guy has to inject himself. I mean, come on, seriously, give us a break. Why doesn’t this guy just focus on trying to improve the quality of life of the American people because the Trump economy has been a disaster?

JOHN BERMAN: Are you going when they’re in New York?

LEADER JEFFRIES: No, next week we’re in session. We’ll be here in Washington, D.C., but I hope to gather with a group of friends and colleagues and watch the Knicks be successful in both game three and game four in the world’s most famous arena, Madison Square Garden.

JOHN BERMAN: Leader Jeffries, we just got an alert, if someone could tell me where it’s from, that Janet Mills, the Governor of Maine, has been encouraged to reenter the Senate race. She suspended her campaign. She never went through. Could someone tell me, encouraged by whom? Hang on. A source close to her. According to sources, she is being encouraged, I imagine by maybe Democrats, I’m not sure, to reenter the race or unsuspend her campaign. What do you think of that, just days before the actual primary?

LEADER JEFFRIES: Well, listen, we’re just three seats short of taking back control of the House of Representatives. We need to do that because House Republicans have been functioning like a reckless rubber stamp for Donald Trump’s extreme agenda, and they haven’t done a damn thing to make life better for the American people. I’m going to stay in that lane and focus on doing what we have to do, which is reclaiming the gavels in the Congress.

JOHN BERMAN: House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, I appreciate you rolling with the breaking news. I appreciate the Knicks discussion. Sorry you won’t be at the games next week. Tickets are tough to afford anyway.

Full interview can be watched here.

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Rep. Huffman Fights Back to Protect Families, Pets from Cyanide Bombs

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

Republicans Repeatedly Block Legislation After Trump Reopens Door to Poisonous M-44 Devices on Public Lands

June 05, 2026

Washington, D.C. — This week, House Republicans blocked Representative Jared Huffman’s (CA-02) latest attempt to end the use of M-44 cyanide ejectors, commonly known as cyanide bombs, on public lands.

After years of pressure from lawmakers and advocates, the Bureau of Land Management prohibited the use of M-44s on BLM lands in 2023. But just last month, the Trump administration reversed that policy despite widespread public outcry.

Huffman submitted an amendment to the Fiscal Year 2027 Agriculture Appropriations Act that would restore the ban. However, the Majority refused to allow the amendment to receive a vote.

“I’ve spent years fighting to get cyanide bombs off public lands because they are extremely dangerous and ineffective tools that have no business being anywhere near families, pets, or wildlife,” said Rep. Huffman. “We made real change that can save lives. But this administration has a bad habit of undoing common-sense protections and calling it progress, and that’s exactly what they did here. Reversing course and bringing cyanide bombs back is reckless, unnecessary, and unacceptable. I’m disappointed Republicans keep stonewalling me, but I’m not deterred. I will keep fighting until these devices are permanently banned.”

Huffman additionally submitted an amendment to ban the use of M-44 cyanide ejectors on all public lands to the Farm Bill earlier this year. Republicans also refused to allow the amendment to receive a vote.

Background

M-44 ejectors are spring-loaded devices containing sodium cyanide that are used to kill predators such as coyotes and foxes. When triggered, they release a toxic cloud that can kill within minutes.

Rep. Huffman introduced Canyon’s Law, a piece of legislation to permanently ban M-44 cyanide ejectors on public lands. The bill is named after Canyon Mansfield, an Idaho teenager who was exposed to cyanide in 2017 after his dog triggered an M-44 near their home. The incident killed his dog and sent Canyon to the hospital, drawing national attention to the dangers posed by the devices.

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Carter secures $1.37 million for Blackshear critical infrastructure upgrades

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

Headline: Carter secures $1.37 million for Blackshear critical infrastructure upgrades

WASHINGTON, DC – Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) today announced $1.37 million in funding for the Blackshear, Georgia, Highway 84 Water and Sewer Infrastructure Expansion Project as part of the House-passed Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Appropriations Act of 2027.

This funding will support the city’s rapid growth, fueled by recent economic development projects, and provide enhanced services for current residents.

“Investments in basic infrastructure unlock the future potential of Georgia’s communities and cities, and Blackshear is no exception. The $1,375,000 expansion of water and sewer infrastructure is precisely the type of project that enabled Pooler to become the fastest-growing city in Georgia, quadrupling its population during my tenure as Mayor,” said Rep. Carter. “I’m excited to see what the future holds for Blackshear and will continue supporting these investments in rural Georgia.”

“Highway 84 is one of the most important corridors in our area, and expanding water and sewer infrastructure along this route will help ensure Blackshear is prepared for future growth. This project will create new opportunities for economic development, support existing businesses, and provide the infrastructure needed to meet future demands,” said Keith Brooks, Mayor of Blackshear. “We appreciate Congressman Carter’s support and his efforts to help move this important project forward for our community.”

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Amodei Secures $20 Million for Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority Terminal Modernization Project

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mark Amodei (NV-02)

Washington, D.C. – Today, Rep. Mark Amodei announced $20 million in funding for the Reno-Tahoe International Airport after years of work to advance this priority.

The investment is part of nearly $1 billion Secretary Duffy has announced as part of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act Airport Terminal Program.

“It’s a breath of fresh air to see this initiative finally cross the finish line thanks to the leadership of Secretary Sean Duffy,” said Rep. Mark Amodei. “I appreciate the professionalism and leadership of my former House colleague, the Secretary, and his team in working directly with me to emphasize the importance of this project. Northern Nevada continues to grow as a destination for travel, business expansion, and corporate relocation, and our airport must keep pace through timely infrastructure upgrades and modernization efforts that create a more efficient and enjoyable travel experience for families and visitors. Thank you again to the Department of Transportation and the Federal Aviation Administration for recognizing the vital role our airport plays in our state’s growth and for making these improvements a priority. I join countless Nevadans in looking forward to its completion.”

“The New Gen A&B concourse project, part of our MoreRNO infrastructure program, will reimagine the airport experience in our community with more space, modernized concessions, as well as more accessible and family friendly features,” Cris Jensen, interim CEO, Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority. “We are very grateful for these grant funds to support this important investment in our hometown airport and we thank our federal congressional delegation and the FAA for their steadfast support over the life of this grant program.”

Grothman’s State Emissions Authority Act Considered in House Energy and Commerce Committee

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Glenn Grothman (R-Glenbeulah 6th District Wisconsin)

Congressman Glenn Grothman’s (R-WI) State Emissions Authority Act, legislation to remove burdensome federal vehicle emissions testing requirements and restore state authority, was considered by the House Energy and Commerce’s Environment Subcommittee today. 

For decades, the Clean Air Act has required certain states to operate vehicle emissions testing programs under federal mandates based on standards developed long before modern advances in vehicle technology. Grothman’s legislation would give states greater flexibility by eliminating these Clean Air Act requirements, which impose unnecessary costs and administrative burdens on drivers, businesses, and state governments. 

“Federal emissions testing mandates were enacted decades ago to address challenges that have since been addressed through technological innovation and cleaner vehicles,” said Congressman Grothman. “Yet, federal law continues to require many states, including Wisconsin, to maintain costly testing programs that place unnecessary burdens on drivers and businesses. My bill restores flexibility to the states, reduces unnecessary costs, and updates federal law to reflect the realities of today’s vehicles. I am pleased to see the Energy and Commerce Committee consider this legislation.” 

“The State Emissions Authority Act is a timely update to current federal requirements. It empowers states, aligns with modern vehicle technology, and reduces unnecessary costs for drivers and businesses.” – Debbie Sparks, Executive Director of the National Motor Freight Traffic Association 

“The State Emissions Authority Act restores a basic principle: states, not Washington, should decide whether vehicle emissions-testing programs make sense for their residents. These federal mandates impose real costs on families, small businesses, and state governments, even as vehicle technology has changed and states are fully capable of making these decisions for themselves. This bill ends the one-size-fits-all federal requirement and returns that authority to the states.” – Jason Hayes, Director of Energy and Environment at the America First Policy Institute  

“States are spending much-needed taxpayer dollars on vehicle inspection programs that are often a waste of time and money. Cars rarely fail the emissions tests. The federal government should stop forcing these inspection requirements onto states. Let states decide if such programs make sense. And make no mistake, states have every reason to figure out how best to meet the stringent federal air quality standards. If inspections make sense, then states will keep them. If not, then states can identify better and different ways to improve air quality. The State Emissions Authority Act addresses this one-size-fits-all and outdated federal mandate.” – Daren Bakst, Competitive Enterprise Institute’s Director of the Center for Energy and Environment 

“As air quality continues to improve across the country, allowing states more flexibility to meet ambient air quality standards is appropriate and acknowledges that new vehicle technologies will continue to provide lasting air quality benefits.” – The American Trucking Association 

Background Information 

Congressman Grothman introduced the State Emissions Authority Act to amend the Clean Air Act and eliminate federal mandates requiring states to operate vehicle inspection and maintenance (I/M) programs, commonly known as emissions testing. 

These requirements were established in the 1970s and 1990s, before major improvements in vehicle technology, cleaner fuels, and modern emissions-control systems. As vehicle emissions have declined significantly over the past several decades, many states and drivers continue to face the costs and inconveniences associated with federally mandated testing programs. 

The State Emissions Authority Act would: 

The legislation is supported by the America First Policy Institute, American Trucking Associations, Competitive Enterprise Institute, National Motor Freight Traffic Association, and Truckload Carriers Association. 

The State Emissions Authority Act was highlighted by the House Energy and Commerce Environment Subcommittee on June 3, 2026. 

U.S. Rep. Glenn Grothman (R-Glenbeulah) proudly serves the people of Wisconsin’s 6th Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives. 

Democratic Members Slam NSF for Covert Blacklisting of Universities

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

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Science Committee Democratic Members sent a letter to National Science Foundation Acting Director Brian Stone demanding answers on NSF secretly blocking research grants to top universities. On May 27, 2026, it was reported in Nature that NSF had been blocking awards to Duke University, Harvard University, Princeton University, and Yale University since April 9, 2026. The Science Committee learned of this politicization of the grant awarding process from media reports seven weeks after NSF implemented this policy — a true testament to the lack of transparency from the Trump administration.

“The Committee on Science, Space, and Technology has had a long history of working closely with NSF toward shared goals – under both Republican and Democratic administrations. Clearly the cooperative, transparent relationship this Committee has enjoyed with the agency has expired,” the Members wrote in their letter.

The Members continued, “NSF silently blocking awards for meritorious proposals coming from certain institutions shows that the agency is no longer aligned with NSF’s founding principle that meritorious research, identified by expert review panels and expert NSF program officers, should be funded without political interference.”

In the letter, Members requested answers to the following questions by June 9, 2026:

  • Why and when was the “Future Awards to Organization on Hold” designation applied to Duke, Harvard, Yale, and Princeton?
  • Why and when was the “Future Awards to Organization on Hold” designation lifted from Duke, Harvard, and Yale?
  • Since January 21, 2025, have any additional institutions been tagged with the “Future Awards to Organization on Hold” designation, or have there been alternative mechanisms put in place to flag organizations in order to stall funding? If so, please share the institutions, the time period during which this designation applied, and the reasoning for applying and then lifting this designation.

Read the letter here.

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