LEADER JEFFRIES STATEMENT ON THE PASSING OF ELIOT ENGEL

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

Know Your Immigration Rights

If you or a loved one encounter immigration enforcement officials, it is essential that you know your rights and have prepared your household for all possible outcomes.

Ask for a warrant: The Fourth Amendment of the Constitution protects you from unreasonable search and seizure. You do not have to open your door until you see a valid warrant to enter your home or search your belongings.

Your right to remain silent: The Fifth Amendment protects your right to remain silent and not incriminate yourself. You are not required to share any personal information such as your place of birth, immigration status or criminal history.

Always consult an attorney: You have a right to speak with an attorney. You do not have to sign anything or hand officials any documents without speaking to an attorney. Try to identify and consult one in advance.

The New York City Office of Civil Justice and the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs (MOIA) support a variety of free immigration legal services through local nonprofit legal organizations. To access these resources, dial 311 and say “Action NYC,” call the MOIA Immigration Legal Support Hotline at 800-354-0365 Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. or visit MOIA’s website.

Learn more here: KNOW YOUR IMMIGRATION RIGHTS  – Congressman Hakeem Jeffries

Pelosi Statement on the Passing of Chairman Eliot Engel

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi Representing the 12th District of California

San Francisco – Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi issued the following statement released the following statement on the passing of former Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Eliot Engel:

“It is with great sadness that I learned of the passing of a great Member of Congress, Chairman Eliot Engel. For more than three decades in the Congress, Eliot was a champion for his constituents in the Bronx and Westchester and a deeply respected leader on the world stage. As Chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee, he helped shape American foreign policy with strength and principle—advancing democracy, standing up for human rights and reinforcing our alliances. He was a persistent advocate on global security and public health, including the fight against HIV/AIDS.

“As a legislator who believed deeply in bipartisan progress, Eliot brought deep knowledge, moral clarity and a steady, thoughtful voice to every challenge. He was always guided by his belief in America’s responsibility to lead with both power and purpose. But beyond his extraordinary record of service, I will remember Eliot for his warmth, his decency and his quiet kindness. I was proud to work alongside him and to call him a friend. May it be a comfort to Eliot’s wife Pat, children Julia, Jonathan and Philip, and all who loved him that so many are praying for them at this sad time.”

Congressman Cohen Commemorates 47th Anniversary of United States-Taiwan Relations Act

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09)

WASHINGTON – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9), a member of the Congressional Taiwan Caucus, today released the following statement to commemorate the 47th anniversary of the Taiwan Relations Act:

“This landmark statute has served as the bedrock of the United States–Taiwan relationship for nearly five decades.

“Since its enactment in 1979, the Taiwan Relations Act has provided a framework for peace, stability, and continued partnership in the Indo-Pacific region. It has ensured that the United States maintains a commitment to Taiwan’s security, enabling Taiwan to preserve the autonomy and resilience that define its vibrant democracy.

“Over the years, Taiwan has become not only a vital economic partner but also a trusted friend and global ally whose shared values of democracy and respect for human rights mirror our own. I look forward to the continued long-term cooperation between the United States and Taiwan based on these shared values. 

“On this anniversary, we reaffirm our commitment to the Taiwan Relations Act and peace, stability, and prosperity across the Indo-Pacific.”

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Rep. Mike Levin Honors Susan Parmelee as March 2026 Constituent of the Month

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

March 31, 2026

Susan Parmelee

San Clemente, CA—Today, Rep. Mike Levin (CA-49) recognized Susan Parmelee, an outstanding San Clemente resident, founder and Executive Director of the Wellness & Prevention Center, as his March 2026 Constituent of the Month. The Wellness & Prevention Center is a nonprofit dedicated to mental health prevention and intervention for youth ages 12 to 25 years old and their families.

Through her tireless commitment to the young people of South Orange County and North County San Diego, Susan has created a welcoming and accessible space where youth can receive the mental health support they need to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives. Her leadership and vision have made a measurable difference in our communities.

Susan has dedicated more than 15 years to providing mental health services for youth and their families, with prior leadership roles at the Illumination Foundation and iHOPEoc.

Her unwavering dedication continues to uplift and support countless youth and their families, strengthen mental health infrastructure, and build a foundation where young people can thrive.

See below for Rep. Levin’s statement recognizing Susan Parmelee in the Congressional Record:

“Mr. Speaker, I am proud to recognize Susan Parmelee as my March 2026 Constituent of the Month.

“Susan is truly an advocate for change. At a time when so many of our youth are struggling with anxiety and depression, she created a place where they don’t have to struggle alone.

“The Wellness & Prevention Center provides a safe and welcoming space for young people and their families to turn to when they need support most. The Center offers peer support, clinical training, policy advocacy, community education, and so much more. It is truly remarkable work.

“I know Susan does not do this work for recognition, but it is truly an honor to select her for this distinction, and our district is better off because of her work.”

ABOUT THE CONSTITUENT OF THE MONTH PROGRAM:

Rep. Levin’s Constituent of the Month program recognizes outstanding North County San Diego and South Orange County residents who have gone above and beyond to help their neighbors, give back to their community, and represent the best of our country. Rep. Levin’s February 2026 Constituent of the Month was Rob Howard, an outstanding Oceanside resident, six-year Navy veteran, and recipient of this year’s Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Community Service Award. The January 2026 Constituent of the Month was John Resnick, leader of four acclaimed restaurants, recipient of two Michelin Stars, and winner of the 2025 North County Steward Award.

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Pappas Introduces Bill to Ban Corporations from Using AI to Raise Food Prices

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Chris Pappas (D-NH)

Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) is introducing the Lower Grocery Prices Act, legislation to ban the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) surveillance pricing by companies to raise food and grocery prices.  
New Hampshire families continue to face rising food costs and food insecurity. 1 in 9 Granite Staters, including 1 in 7 children, face food insecurity, and grocery prices are up almost 30% since 2020. Now, big corporations are using surveillance pricing and AI to charge individuals more based on their personal data.

“Big corporations are raking in record profits while using surveillance pricing to raise prices for families who are struggling to put food on the table. It’s outrageous, and Congress needs to step up and put a stop to it immediately,” said Congressman Pappas. “That’s why I’m introducing the Lower Grocery Prices Act to ban this practice by corporations to jack up food prices and rip off Granite Staters. The work of lowering costs for hardworking families, seniors, and veterans includes taking on corporate greed, and I will always fight to put people before profits.”

Specifically, the Lower Grocery Prices Act would prohibit the use of surveillance-based price setting for food, groceries, or agricultural commodities, with exceptions for regional differences, group discounts (such as veterans or seniors), and loyalty programs. 

Background: 

Pappas is a fierce advocate for lowering costs for New Hampshire families, seniors, and small businesses, including pushing back on President Trump’s widespread tariffs and against cuts to health care and SNAP. He is a co-sponsor of the No Tariffs on Groceries Act, which would require Congressional approval for any tariff levied on food or agricultural products, and the Restoring Food Security for American Families and Farmers Act of 2025, which would repeal the cuts to SNAP in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. 

As Deadline Approaches, Norton Says Federal Tax Filing Season is a Reminder that D.C. Residents Remain Under Taxation Without Representation

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (District of Columbia)

D.C. pays more federal taxes per capita than any state and more total federal taxes than 26 states.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – As the federal tax filing season kicks off, Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC) issued a statement reminding the public that the District of Columbia pays more federal taxes per capita than any state and more federal taxes overall than 26 states, while being denied the same voting representation in Congress or full local self-government accorded to residents of the states. Norton said that the remedy is for Congress to pass her D.C. statehood bill.

“As the deadline for filing federal taxes approaches, I remind the public that D.C. still does not have voting representation in Congress nor full local self-government – rights accorded to residents of the states,” Norton said. “’No taxation without representation’ was the slogan that gave birth to our nation itself. The principle should particularly apply to the citizens of the nation’s capital today, who have all the obligations of citizenship and pay more federal taxes per capita than residents of any state. 

“I introduced my D.C. statehood bill in the House on the first day bills were allowed to be introduced this Congress. The residents of our nation’s capital are owed the same rights afforded to residents of the states.”

The D.C. statehood bill has passed the House twice, most recently in April of 2021. 

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House Foreign Affairs Ranking Member Meeks, Keating Introduce Bill to Terminate Russian Oil Licenses and Sanction Russian Oil Companies

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Gregory W Meeks (5th District of New York)

Washington, D.C. – Representatives Gregory W. Meeks, Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, and William R. Keating, Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Europe, today introduced the “End Russian Oil Windfalls Act” to curtail Russia’s ability to exploit the global rise in energy costs to fund its war against Ukraine.

A PDF of the bill can be found here.

“The Trump Administration’s war of choice in the Middle East has caused prices at the gas pump for everyday Americans to skyrocket. To offset this reckless decision, Trump issued licenses that gave Putin a free pass to take advantage of the global rise in energy costs and fill Russia’s coffers for its illegal war against Ukraine — all while Russia helped Iran target and kill American service members in the Middle East. We’re introducing this bill to end the existing licenses, prevent them from being issued in the future, and starve Russia of the oil revenues it so desperately needs,” wrote the lawmakers.

The “End Russian Oil Windfalls Act” would:

  • Terminate Russia-related General Licenses for the sale of Russian oil issued by the Department of the Treasury
  • Prohibit the issuance of such licenses in the future
  • Impose sanctions on Russian oil companies
  • Require reports on Russian oil revenues and on the involvement by Russian energy companies in the abduction, deportation, or indoctrination of Ukrainian civilians, including children 

House Foreign Affairs Ranking Member Meeks Statement on Continued Violence Against Civilians in Lebanon

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Gregory W Meeks (5th District of New York)

Washington, D.C. – Representative Gregory W. Meeks, Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, today issued a statement on ongoing strikes in Lebanon:

“While I welcome the ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran, I am deeply concerned by the continued violence in Lebanon, where Israel’s attacks have resulted in more than 1,500 people killed, over 4,000 wounded, and over 1 million displaced.

“The continued violence risks undermining the fragile ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran. Strikes on civilian infrastructure, health workers, and UN peacekeepers must immediately cease, as should any Israeli incursions beyond the Blue Line.

“At the same time, Hezbollah’s attacks on Israel must cease. Lebanon’s efforts to assert full control over its territory are essential, and must accelerate the disarmament of Hezbollah for long-term stability.

“The United States must support deescalation on all sides and reinforce Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. I stand by President Aoun, the Lebanese Armed Forces, and the Lebanese people toward a fully sovereign, independent, and secure Lebanon.” 

Rep. Craig Joins Minnesota Valley Transit Authority for Burnsville Bus Garage Renovation Ribbon Cutting

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Angie Craig (MN-02)

BURNSVILLE, MN – Today, U.S. Representative Angie Craig joined the ribbon cutting ceremony for the new Minnesota Valley Transit Authority (MVTA) Bus Garage in Burnsville. Rep. Craig offered remarks and received the Burnsville Bus Garage Modernization Project Transit Partner Award from MVTA at the event.  

Rep. Craig was joined by Burnsville Mayor Elizabeth Kautz, Burnsville Chamber President Jennifer Harmening, MVTA Chair Jay Whiting and MVTA Executive Director Luther Wynder. 

In total, Rep Craig has secured more than $7 million in federal funding for the Burnsville Bus Garage renovation, including $2.72 million in 2025 for phase IV of construction and $4.96 million in 2022 to break ground on the project. In 2025, Rep. Craig also secured $8 million from the Department of Transportation’s Low-or-No-Emission Grant Program to support the Bus Garage’s fleet expansion. 

“For Minnesotans, reliable and safe public transportation isn’t just a convenience – it’s a necessity,” said Rep. Craig. “I was proud to support this project from the beginning and help secure more than $7 million in federal funding for the renovation. Today’s celebration should serve as an important reminder of what we can accomplish when community leaders and officials on the local, state and federal levels come together around a common goal.”   

Rep. Craig has helped secure critical investments for the Burnsville Bus Garage renovation through the Department of Transportation’s Buses and Bus Facilities Competitive Grant Program, which makes federal resources available to states and direct recipients to replace, rehabilitate and purchase buses and related equipment and to construct bus-related facilities. 

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Rep. Craig Joins Farmers, Mental Health Professionals, Educators, Ag Leaders for Farmer Mental Health Roundtable in Farmington

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Angie Craig (MN-02)

BURNSVILLE, MN – Today, U.S. Representative Angie Craig joined the ribbon cutting ceremony for the new Minnesota Valley Transit Authority (MVTA) Bus Garage in Burnsville. Rep. Craig offered remarks and received the Burnsville Bus Garage Modernization Project Transit Partner Award from MVTA at the event.  

Rep. Craig was joined by Burnsville Mayor Elizabeth Kautz, Burnsville Chamber President Jennifer Harmening, MVTA Chair Jay Whiting and MVTA Executive Director Luther Wynder. 

In total, Rep Craig has secured more than $7 million in federal funding for the Burnsville Bus Garage renovation, including $2.72 million in 2025 for phase IV of construction and $4.96 million in 2022 to break ground on the project. In 2025, Rep. Craig also secured $8 million from the Department of Transportation’s Low-or-No-Emission Grant Program to support the Bus Garage’s fleet expansion. 

“For Minnesotans, reliable and safe public transportation isn’t just a convenience – it’s a necessity,” said Rep. Craig. “I was proud to support this project from the beginning and help secure more than $7 million in federal funding for the renovation. Today’s celebration should serve as an important reminder of what we can accomplish when community leaders and officials on the local, state and federal levels come together around a common goal.”   

Rep. Craig has helped secure critical investments for the Burnsville Bus Garage renovation through the Department of Transportation’s Buses and Bus Facilities Competitive Grant Program, which makes federal resources available to states and direct recipients to replace, rehabilitate and purchase buses and related equipment and to construct bus-related facilities. 

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