MIL USHOR-2b Engine

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (1st District of Maine)

Just hours after returning to Maine from San Antonio, Texas, Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-Maine) shared news that a federal district court judge has ordered Olivia Andre’s release from the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) processing center in Dilley, Texas. According to Olivia’s lawyer, Elora Mukherjee, the judge’s order states she must be released by no later than Friday, May 8. 

“I am overwhelmed with joy and relief that Olivia will finally be released and reunited with her family. Yesterday, I sat with Olivia in Dilley and heard how she struggled through every second of her time in detention. Words cannot describe how heartbreaking it was to leave knowing she was still trapped there in utter despair. Olivia should never have been left locked away in Dilley, far from her family, her community, and the life she was building in Portland. But today, after six months of fear, pain, and uncertainty, Olivia is finally coming home,” Pingree said. “Olivia’s release is a testament to the power of public pressure, persistent advocacy, and the simple truth that no one seeking safety should be subjected to this kind of needless cruelty. Now, ICE must release Olivia without delay so she can be reunited with her family and begin to heal where she belongs: at home in Maine.”

“I just spoke with Olivia. She is overwhelmed with emotion to learn that she will be coming home to Maine. Olivia and her family should never have been detained. The federal court ordered her release because the Trump administration had no lawful basis for detaining her. She suffered in detention for six months in violation of federal law and the U.S. Constitution’s protections. Her mental and physical health deteriorated during this time because she did not have access to sufficient clean drinking water, palatable food, or appropriate medical care,” Mukherjee said. “All children and families should be released from Dilley immediately. There are cost-effective and humane alternatives to detaining children and families. Protecting children from needless cruelty is not an enormous ask. Our humanity demands it of us.”

On Tuesday, Pingree—along with colleagues U.S. Representatives Joaquin Castro (D-Texas), Henry Cuellar (D-Texas), Sylvia Garcia (D-Texas), Adelita Grijalva (D-Ariz.), Christian Menefee (D-Texas), and Mark Takano (D-Calif.)—conducted an official oversight visit of the Dilley detention center. They had the opportunity to meet with more than 60 people detained there and heard firsthand accounts of their treatment and the facility conditions. Pingree met with Olivia during the visit.

Olivia and her family are asylum seekers from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and have been living in Portland, where Olivia was a first-year nursing student. The rest of her family—mother Carine Balenda Mbizi; brother Joel Andre, 16; and sister Estafania Andre, 14—were released from the Dilley Processing Center in March. 

Pingree previously conducted oversight visits of the ICE field office in Scarborough, Maine and the ICE facility in Burlington, Mass. 

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (1st District of Maine)

Maine Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-Maine) is once again calling for the release of her constituent, Olivia Andre, from the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) processing center in Dilley, Texas following an official Congressional oversight visit on Tuesday. Pingree—along with colleagues U.S. Representatives Joaquin Castro (D-Texas), Henry Cuellar (D-Texas), Sylvia Garcia (D-Texas), Adelita Grijalva (D-Ariz.), Christian Menefee (D-Texas.), and Mark Takano (D-Calif.)—held a press conference where they detailed what they witnessed at the Dilley facility and shared stories of those they met with.

“I came here today for one specific reason and one specific constituent. [But] I want to validate all of the things that my colleagues have been saying, and everything you’re hearing is true: We need to close Dilley, we need to close these facilities, there was nothing about the conditions that were humane—and it’s done with our tax dollars, in our name, and it has to stop,” Pingree said during the press conference.

In April, Pingree called on ICE to immediately release Olivia Andre, a 19-year-old student who has been detained in the Dilley Immigration Processing Center in Texas since November. In a letter to ICE Acting Director Todd Lyons, Pingree questioned the legal basis for Olivia’s continued detention, as no explanation has been given to Andre or her legal counsel. 

Olivia and her family are asylum seekers from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and have been living in Portland, where Olivia was a first-year nursing student. The rest of her family—mother Carine Balenda Mbizi; brother Joel Andre, 16; and sister Estafania Andre, 14—were released from the Dilley Processing Center in March. 

Pingree previously conducted oversight visits of the ICE field office in Scarborough, Maine and the ICE facility in Burlington, Mass. 

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jack Bergman (MI-1)

Today, Representative Jack Bergman highlighted new record-setting progress by the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) in suicide prevention efforts, alongside historic funding secured through the appropriations process to support at-risk Veterans.

This week, the VA announced that it has reached the highest levels on record for both suicide risk screenings and follow-up evaluations for Veterans. As of March 2026, 88% of Veterans receiving VA care completed an annual suicide risk screening – the highest rate since tracking began in 2021.

Additionally, 96% of Veterans identified as at risk received a comprehensive follow-up evaluation and support plan within 24 hours, also a record high.

In March, Rep. Bergman led a bipartisan request signed by 29 Members urging the House Appropriations Committee to provide full funding for VA suicide prevention and treatment programs in the FY27 Military Construction and Veterans Affairs (MilCon-VA) funding bill. The request called for funding at not less than the VA’s FY27 Advance Appropriations request of $3.09 billion, including $713.4 million for suicide prevention outreach.

Earlier this month, the Appropriations Committee released its FY27 MilCon-VA bill and accompanying report, outlining $3.67 billion in funding for VA suicide prevention and treatment, of which $726.7 million is directed toward outreach efforts.

“These numbers represent real lives being reached and real progress in the fight to end Veteran suicide, but we know the mission is far from over, and we must continue to match progress with resources. This is exactly how the process should work. We identified the need, fought for the resources, and delivered even more support than requested to help save Veterans’ lives,” said Bergman.

The VA’s progress follows increased focus on improving suicide risk screening and timely follow-up care, including addressing concerns raised in a 2024 Office of Inspector General report. Expanded outreach has also played a key role, particularly in reaching unenrolled Veterans, who account for more than 60% of Veteran suicides.

Veterans in crisis, or those concerned about a Veteran, can contact the Veterans Crisis Line for 24/7 confidential support by dialing 988 and pressing 1, texting 838255, or visiting VeteransCrisisLine.net.

The full release from the VA can be found here.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA)

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has awarded New River Community Action, Inc., based in Radford, Virginia, a $3,710,694 grant. The funding supports local head start projects. U.S. Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA) issued the following statement:

“New River Valley communities access head start services thanks to the work of New River Community Action.

“This HHS grant for more than $3.7 million helps New River Community Action administer its head start programs in the region.”

BACKGROUND

According to its website, New River Community Action supports head start services in the City of Radford as well as Floyd, Giles, Montgomery and Pulaski Counties. More than 200 children in the New River Valley benefit from its head start program.

As a member of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, Congressman Griffith serves as the Chairman of the Health Subcommittee. 

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Frank Pallone (6th District of New Jersey)

LONG BRANCH, NJ – Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) today announced $1 million for Women Aware Inc. in New Brunswick to strengthen services for survivors of domestic violence in Middlesex County. 

“Women Aware provides lifesaving support for survivors at some of the most difficult moments in their lives, and this funding will help strengthen those services in Middlesex County,” Pallone said. “At a time when many victim service organizations are facing devastating funding uncertainty, this investment is especially important. Survivors deserve stability, safety, and access to care without wondering whether support programs will disappear. I will keep fighting to ensure New Jersey organizations have the federal resources they need to continue this work.”

The funding will support the development and expansion of the Middlesex County Family Justice Center, direct services for survivors, and specialized training for law enforcement, prosecutors, and emergency room personnel responding to domestic violence and strangulation cases. 

Last year, Pallone led a push urging the Trump Administration to release nearly $10 million in aid for New Jersey programs supporting survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse, and human trafficking after delays threatened critical services statewide.

Women Aware previously warned that reductions in federal Victims of Crime Act funding could force cuts to residential and non-residential programs that help survivors rebuild their lives and regain stability. Pallone has continued pressing the federal government to release delayed victim assistance funding to prevent layoffs, service reductions, and closures at organizations across New Jersey.

“This grant strengthens the cornerstone of safety in our community by allowing us to provide critical training for law enforcement and medical personnel. It ensures that when a survivor reaches out, whether in an emergency room or a courtroom, they are met with a response that is trauma-informed, expert, and rooted in justice,” said Women Aware CEO Phyllis Yonta, MSW, MA, DVS.

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

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Representative Mike Kelly (R-PA) announced the opening of the 2026 Congressional App Challenge for middle and high school students in Pennsylvania’s 16th Congressional District. This annual competition encourages students to explore science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) by creating and showcasing their own software applications.

“The Congressional App Challenge offers local students a chance to showcase their creativity and technical skills,” said Rep. Kelly. “I am continually impressed by the talent and ingenuity of our students, and I look forward to seeing the innovative apps they develop this year.”

The 2025 winner was Giovanni Di Domenico of Cranberry Township, Butler County.

Competition Details:

Eligibility: Open to all middle and high school students residing or attending school in Pennsylvania’s 16th Congressional District.
Submission Deadline: October 26, 2026.

Students are encouraged to register early to receive updates and resources. 

How to Participate:

• Register for the competition at: www.CongressionalAppChallenge.us
• Develop an original app on any platform (e.g., mobile, web, desktop).
• Submit the app along with a demonstration video and required documentation by the submission deadline.

The winning app from Pennsylvania’s 16th District will be featured on the Congressional App Challenge website and displayed in the U.S. Capitol Building. Winners will also be invited to the #HouseOfCode celebration in Washington, D.C., where they can showcase their app to Members of Congress and the tech community.

For more information, please contact Julie Swartfager, Director of Constituent Services, at Julie.Swartfager@mail.house.gov.

Learn more about the competition at Kelly.House.Gov/Services/Congressional-App-Challenge and at www.congressionalappchallenge.us

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Brad Sherman (D-CA)

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today Congressman Brad Sherman (CA-32) introduced the Stop Oil Exports to Lower Gas Prices Act to protect American consumers from rising energy costs and economic instability by halting exports of U.S.-produced crude oil during the ongoing war with Iran.

America produces more oil than we use and is a net exporter of both petroleum and refined products. If we prohibit exports, the supply will exceed the demand, and prices for American consumers will drop. Currently, American oil is going to Europe and Asia to replace Middle East oil, reducing the domestic supply and raising the prices Americans pay.

“During this period of international instability, we have a responsibility to use all available tools to defend American families and our economy,” said Congressman Sherman. “This bill prioritizes consumers by directing our energy resources toward lowering costs here at home instead of allowing companies to chase higher profits at the expense of American consumers,” Sherman added.

The legislation would prohibit U.S. crude oil exports until (1) the President certifies that hostilities with Iran have ceased and (2) the Strait of Hormuz is fully reopened to global commerce. 

The bill would implement a targeted export ban designed to stabilize domestic energy markets, reduce inflationary pressure, and prioritize U.S. supply during a period of international crisis. It also includes limited flexibility for cases where certain crude oil cannot be efficiently refined domestically, allowing narrowly tailored export licenses provided that refined products are returned to the United States.

Recently, Congressman Sherman pressed President Trump to immediately exercise this authority and pause U.S. petroleum exports until hostilities with Iran cease and global energy markets stabilize. In his letter to Trump, Sherman emphasized that such action would help shield American consumers from unnecessary price increases, reduce inflationary pressure, and ensure domestic energy supplies remain available during a period of global instability. 

“Suspending crude oil exports during the Iran War is a lawful, targeted, and necessary step,” Sherman added. “American oil should first and foremost benefit the American people, who continue to suffer from the affordability crisis cause by President Trump’s reckless policies.”

To read Sherman’s letter to Trump, click here. 

To view bill text, click here. 

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Norma Torres (35th District of California)

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

WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) sent a letter to Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) Director Andrea Gacki requesting more information on how the federal government monitors large amounts of cash being transported internationally. This letter comes on the heels of reports that fraudsters in Minnesota were able to able to send large amounts of taxpayer money from Minnesota through Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) to Somalia, where some the cash ultimately ended up in the hands of the Al-Shabaab terrorist group.

Current law requires individuals carrying more than $10,000 in U.S. currency out of the country to file FinCEN Form 105, Report of International Transportation of Currency or Monetary Instruments (CMIR). However, recent reports raise questions about whether existing oversight and coordination between federal agencies is sufficient to identify potential abuse.

Rep. Stauber penned the following questions to Secretary Bessent and FinCEN Director Gacki: 

1. What process does FinCEN use to confirm the accuracy and completeness of CMIR filings submitted at airports and other ports of entry?
2. Does FinCEN share CMIR data with other federal agencies – such as Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, Health and Human Service Office of Inspector General, or state Medicaid fraud control units – to assist with identifying potential fraud involving federal benefit programs?
3. What tools are used to observe patterns of unusually large amounts of cash being transported out of the country or frequent currency exports that could indicate fraud or abuse of federal assistance programs?
4. Are there significant differences in the levels of declared currency exports across U.S. airports, and if so, what factors might explain elevated levels of outbound cash as specific locations such as MSP?
5. How does FinCEN coordinate with federal agencies, such as the Department of Justice, Customs and Border Patrol, and other federal law enforcement entities, to investigate suspicious activity identified through CMIR filings?
6.  From an enforcement and investigative perspective, would a temporary pause or restriction on international remittance transfers, including those involving individuals under investigation for fraud or abuse of federal benefit programs, be an effective tool in exposing potential fraud, or could such a policy negatively impact ongoing investigations or intelligence gathering efforts? 

In this letter, Rep. Stauber concludes, “Strong oversight of large international cash transfers is essential to protecting taxpayer dollars and preventing fraud in federally funded programs. Greater transparency in how this data is monitored and shared among federal agencies will help Congress determine whether additional safeguards or legislative action are needed.”

Read the full letter HERE. 

This is not the first action Congressman Stauber has taken to prevent fraudsters from sending American taxpayer money overseas. Last month, the Congressman joined Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach in introducing the Preventing the Repatriation of American Benefits Act to restrict the amount of money noncitizens receiving federal benefits can send abroad, ensuring money meant for American assistance stays at home.

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

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) and Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach (MN-07) introduced the Preventing the Repatriation of American Benefits Act in response to the fraud and national security threats exposed across Minnesota’s social service programs. 

This legislation is designed to ensure that federal assistance remains within the United States by restricting the amount of money noncitizens receiving federal benefits can send abroad. The bill revokes welfare eligibility for non-citizens who send more than $1,000 back to their country annually.

This comes in the wake of reports that at least $9 billion of American taxpayer dollars were siphoned off through fraud schemes in Minnesota. Investigations have revealed that millions of these defrauded dollars were sent overseas, including to the Al-Qaeda linked terrorist organization Al-Shabaab.

“It was deeply disturbing to learn that millions in stolen Minnesota welfare dollars were sent back to Somalia and landed in the hands of the terrorist group Al-Shabaab,” said Rep. Stauber. “Hard-earned Minnesota taxpayer dollars must help our own citizens, not foreign criminals. I’m proud to co-author this legislation with Rep. Fischbach to put an end to the madness and ensure every dollar intended for American families stays in America.”

“We are done watching our hard-earned money be sent overseas while the programs meant for our own citizens are gutted by fraud,” said Rep. Fischbach. “This bill puts a stop to the flow of American dollars out of our country. It is time we prioritize our own communities and ensure money meant for American assistance stays right here at home.”

By closing the loopholes that allowed fraud to flourish, this legislation ensures that federal assistance supports vulnerable individuals and families within the United States, rather than funding criminals abroad.

View the bill text here. 

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