MIL USHOR-2b Engine

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Linda Sanchez (38th District of CA)

WASHINGTON – Congresswoman Linda T. Sánchez (D-Calif.) and Senator Mark Warner (D-Va.) today introduced the Hospice Care Accountability, Reform, and Enforcement (Hospice CARE) Act to modernize the Medicare hospice benefit, protect patients and taxpayers from fraud, and expand access to essential services and caregiver support.

Medicare’s hospice benefit has remained largely unchanged since its inception in 1982. However, the hospice industry has changed dramatically both in terms of the types of providers delivering and patients receiving end-of-life services. At the same time, documented and burgeoning fraud and abuse have raised questions about how to ensure the benefit continues to promote patient access while safeguarding the Medicare Trust Fund.

The Hospice CARE Act would strengthen the Medicare hospice benefit through a combination of program integrity provisions and payment reforms to ensure it better meets the needs of terminally ill patients and their families.

“Hospice should provide comfort and dignity at the end of life, yet the benefit has not evolved to meet families where there is need,” said Congresswoman Sánchez. “This bill strengthens and enhances Medicare’s hospice benefit so it provides the critical care patients and their families need – like respite care for caregivers and coverage of palliative treatments like dialysis and radiation – all while protecting the program from those trying to exploit it.”

“Making decisions about hospice and end-of-life care is one of the most difficult moments that families can endure, yet Medicare’s hospice benefit is out-of-touch with the needs of patients and providers,” said Senator Warner. “I’m proud to introduce this legislation that will prioritize patient comfort at home as well as in a health care facility, and protect patients and taxpayers from bad actors attempting to steal essential resources.”

Program Integrity: The bill creates additional safeguards to prevent fraudulent providers from enrolling in Medicare and increases oversight of hospices, especially new hospices. Specifically, it:

• Temporarily prevents new hospices from enrolling in Medicare, while allowing exceptions for instances where additional access to care is needed.
   
• Requires increased transparency of hospice ownership and managing control information, ensuring CMS’s enrollment records are up to date.
   
• Increases survey frequency for new hospices to ensure they meet hospice health and safety standards and prohibits payments to hospices that do not submit required quality data to the Secretary, with appropriate exceptions.
   
• Reduces the potential for inappropriate financial conflicts of interest when certifying individuals’ eligibility for hospice care, while allowing nurse practitioners and physician assistants to also certify eligibility.
   
• Requires CMS to conduct additional oversight activities to ensure hospices are providing holistic and comprehensive care.
   
• Provides patients with an explanation of benefits within 15 days of an individual’s hospice election to increase beneficiary awareness of hospice enrollment and prevent extended periods of fraudulent billing.

Payment Reform: The bill ensures that providers are incentivized to deliver high-quality care to individuals and their families. Specifically, it:

• Revises the payment structure for routine home care to reward hospices for providing in-person care.
   
• Increases payments to hospices for furnishing palliative radiation, chemotherapy, blood transfusions, and dialysis to address access barriers for individuals that require these costly treatments under a hospice election. Additionally, it creates an outlier payment policy to provide a backstop for providers delivering care to high-cost patients.
   
• Adds home respite care to the Medicare hospice benefit, allowing individuals to receive respite care at home rather than in a facility, which is a key benefit for families and caregivers that are taking care of loved ones at the end-of-life.
   
• Creates a new transitional inpatient respite benefit to support patients and families through their transition from a hospital into hospice care in the setting of their choice, allowing patients to move from hospital to general inpatient care to transitional respite, when appropriate. This new transitional payment seeks to eliminate the current pattern of care whereby terminally ill individuals are discharged from the hospital and inappropriately admitted to a skilled nursing facility in lieu of electing hospice care.

A section-by-section analysis of the bill is available HERE.

A one-pager of the bill is available HERE.

“The American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine (AAHPM) greatly supports the work being done on the need to address hospice fraud,” said Kristina Newport, MD, FAAHPM, HMDC, chief medical officer for AAHPM. “Patients and families in need of the care, comfort and quality of life that hospice care provides need to trust that they are receiving the best possible services. We look forward to working with Representative Sánchez and Senator Warner on these important issues and to ensure that all patients have access to this vital care.”

“The Alliance thanks Representative Sánchez and Senator Warner for their commitment to ensuring Americans have access to high-quality hospice care. The reintroduction of the Hospice CARE Act reflects their dedication to meeting the evolving needs of our aging population and strengthening the long-term sustainability and integrity of the hospice benefit,” said Jennifer Sheets, chief executive officer for the National Alliance for Care at Home. “Hospice care is one of the most profound services our healthcare system offers, providing patients and families with compassionate, dignified care during life’s most difficult moments. As the number of Americans turning to hospice continues to grow, it is critical that the benefit keeps pace with how care is delivered today and what patients, families, and providers actually need. The Alliance looks forward to working with Representative Sánchez and Senator Warner and their congressional colleagues on this legislation. We are committed to being a constructive partner in any effort to protect what’s working, address what isn’t, and modernize the Medicare hospice benefit in ways that serve patients, families, and the future of care in our country.”

“Hospice is a vital and deeply valued benefit, with a critical role in America’s health care system,” said Katie Smith Sloan, president and CEO of LeadingAge. “At its best, compassionate, high-quality, person-centered care is delivered to beneficiaries and families by ethical, forward-thinking, competent providers, in keeping with the sector’s nonprofit origins, which established a standard of quality care. Currently, however, hospice is at an inflection point. Increased scrutiny – an appropriate response to fraudulent behavior of a limited group of bad actors – highlights the need for modernization. This moment calls for thoughtful reform to ensure this valuable benefit continues to serve patients and families, support high-quality providers, protect against the rise of dishonest players, and preserve the core promise of hospice care. Done right, changes will expand the benefit to support the realities of modern-day hospice care, address the benefit’s vulnerabilities now being exploited, and help ensure quality to support strong funding. We thank Congresswoman Sánchez and Senator Warner for their leadership on this bill and their longstanding commitment to the need for high quality care for people with serious illness and at the end of life. There is more work to do, and we look forward to continuing to work with Congresswoman Sánchez and Senator Warner to ensure this bill achieves these goals.”

“In addition to significant payment reforms and program integrity measures, this bill takes important steps towards improving access to care for individuals on hospice,” said David Lipschutz, co-director of the Center for Medicare Advocacy. “This includes incentivizing in-person clinical visits and care to higher-cost patients and allowing respite care to be provided in the home. It also would create a transitional 15-day inpatient respite period to give eligible patients and their families adequate time to arrange for a safe transition into receive hospice at home following a hospital stay.”

“The National Partnership for Healthcare and Hospice Innovation (NPHI) thanks Senator Mark Warner and Congresswoman Linda Sánchez for their continued leadership on improving the experience for patients and families at the end-of-life, including with today’s introduction of the Hospice CARE Actof 2026,” said Tom Koutsoumpas, founder and CEO of NPHI.“This legislation provides an important opportunity to pursue thoughtful reforms to the Medicare hospice benefit that both preserve patient access and address ongoing concerns related to program integrity. While the bill represents meaningful progress toward modernizing the benefit and reducing incentives for fraud, waste, and abuse, NPHI believes certain provisions – particularly those related to payment reform – present opportunities for further discussion and refinement. We look forward to working closely with Senator Warner, Representative Sánchez, the Senate Finance Committee, and the House Ways and Means Committee to ensure the legislation delivers thoughtful reforms that strengthen the hospice benefit for mission-driven providers and the patients they serve.”

 

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

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman David G Valadao (CA-21)

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman David Valadao (CA-22), joined by Reps. Troy Carter (LA-02), Laurel Lee (FL-15), and Lucy McBath (GA-06), launched the Combating Human Trafficking Congressional Caucus. This caucus is a bipartisan coalition of members committed to advancing legislation and policy initiatives that raise public awareness of human trafficking, strengthen the United States’ prevention and prosecution efforts, hold traffickers accountable, and protect human trafficking victims. 

“Human trafficking is a devastating crime that preys on the most vulnerable in our Central Valley communities, and while there’s no silver bullet solution, there are actions we can take to fight back,” said Congressman Valadao. “I’m proud to launch the bipartisan Combating Human Trafficking Congressional Caucus to strengthen support for victims and survivors, improve coordination across federal, state, and local partners, and hold traffickers accountable. This caucus will engage lived-experience experts and key stakeholders to help guide future legislative action, and I look forward to working with my co-chairs to confront this crisis head on.”

“Human trafficking is an urgent threat in communities across our nation, and New Orleans is especially vulnerable as a hub for tourism and major events, leading to an increased rate of trafficking. I’m proud to join my colleagues in launching this bipartisan caucus to strengthen coordination at every level of government and hold traffickers accountable. I am committed to elevating survivor voices, protecting vulnerable populations, and ensuring victims have access to the support and opportunities they need to rebuild their lives,” said Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr.

“Human trafficking is an insidious crime that exploits both children and adults and preys on the most vulnerable in our communities,” said Rep. Lee. “I am proud to join the Congressional Combatting Human Trafficking Caucus and work alongside my colleagues to combat this abuse and hold traffickers accountable. Throughout my time in Congress, I have introduced and supported legislation focused on protecting victims and strengthening the tools law enforcement needs to stop traffickers. I look forward to continuing that work through this caucus and advancing policies that help protect vulnerable individuals and bring traffickers to justice.”

“We are proud to launch the Congressional Combating Human Trafficking Caucus, a bipartisan effort to strengthen Congress’s commitment to preventing human trafficking, protecting victims, and holding traffickers accountable,” said Rep. McBath, Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Subcommittee on Crime. “Human trafficking is a grave violation of human rights that demands sustained action at every level of government. Through this caucus, we will work to raise public awareness, advance meaningful legislation, and coordinate closely with federal agencies, advocates, and community partners to confront this crime wherever it occurs. I thank my colleagues for their support on this issue. By bringing together members on both sides of the aisle, we are reinforcing our shared responsibility to combat trafficking and ensure that victims are protected.”

Supporting organizations include the American Hotel & Lodging Association, U.S. Chamber of Commerce, American Gaming Association, Interparliamentary Taskforce on Human Trafficking, Kids in Need of Defense, Polaris, TAT, Protect All Children from Trafficking, the Empowerment Dess Perkins Foundation, Kings County Sheriff’s Department, the Central Valley Justice Coalition, Central Valley Against Human Trafficking, It’s a Penalty, 3Strands Global Foundation, Without Permission, Kern Coalition Against Human Trafficking, Kings Community Action Organization, California Commission on Sexual Exploitation, Wellspring Living, and Street Grace.

“The creation of the Combating Human Trafficking Congressional Caucus is a powerful signal that our leaders in Washington are committed to treating this heinous crime with the urgency it demands. The hotel industry has been a leading voice in prevention through our No Room for Trafficking initiative which trains employees and supports survivors. We’ve long believed that preventing human trafficking requires partnership between the business community and government, and are eager to work more closely with the caucus co-chairs – Representatives David Valadao (R-CA), Laurel Lee (R-FL), Troy Carter (D-LA), and Lucy McBath (D-GA) – and all members of Congress to advance policies that strengthen prevention and support survivors on their path to stability and recovery,” said Rosanna Maietta, President and CEO, American Hotel & Lodging Association.

“The U.S. Chamber and our members are committed to combating human trafficking and we commend Rep. David Valadao, Rep. Troy Carter, Rep. Laurel Lee, and Rep. Lucy McBath for launching the Combating Human Trafficking Caucus. The U.S. Chamber looks forward to working with the Combating Human Trafficking Caucus in the fight to stop this heinous crime,” said Rodney Davis, Head of Government Affairs, U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

“The AGA is proud to support the launch of the Combating Human Trafficking Congressional Caucus. Human trafficking is an issue that affects communities in all 50 states and requires strong collaboration across government, law enforcement, and community partners. We look forward to working closely with the Caucus and its stakeholders to advance policies and initiatives that strengthen prevention, awareness, and support for survivors,” said Alex Costello, Vice President, American Gaming Association (AGA).

“Human trafficking does not respect borders, and neither can the response to it. The formation of this caucus sends a clear signal that Congress is ready to match the urgency of this crisis with sustained, bipartisan commitment. Combating human trafficking requires more than good intentions, it requires coordinated legislative action. The launch of this caucus strengthens this coordination,” said Anne Basham, Chair, Interparliamentary Taskforce on Human Trafficking.

“KIND applauds Representatives David Valadao, Troy Carter, Laurel Lee, and Lucy McBath for launching the vital Combating Human Trafficking Congressional Caucus. The unaccompanied children that KIND serves too often face trafficking and other exploitation in their countries of origin and the United States alike. For decades, Congress has worked to address these abuses in a robust bipartisan fashion, including by helping ensure that unaccompanied children have attorneys who identify trafficking risks and guide children’s cooperation as victim-witnesses in the investigation and prosecution of perpetrators. The caucus embodies this bipartisan approach to preventing and combating trafficking. KIND looks forward to engaging with its members on pragmatic solutions that keep children safe and hold bad actors to account,” said Wendy Young, President, Kids in Need of Defense.

“We welcome the establishment of this Caucus and are encouraged by its commitment to elevating the experiences and leadership of those most directly impacted by trafficking. Policies are strongest when they are informed by the realities people face in communities across the country, and when survivor insight and credible data guide the path forward. At Polaris, we believe effective policy must center survivors, protect their privacy and dignity, and draw on the best available data and insights from the field. We look forward to engaging with the Caucus as its agenda develops to help ensure these values remain at the forefront of legislative and policy efforts,” said Megan Lundstrom, CEO, Polaris.

“As a non-profit organization that partners with the transportation industry to combat human trafficking, TAT welcomes the establishment of a bipartisan Combating Human Trafficking Congressional Caucus. Since its founding in 2009, TAT has trained over 2.5 million transportation professionals on how to recognize and report human trafficking. We also train law enforcement and facilitate the creation of public-private partnerships. Recognizing that coordinated approaches are essential, TAT supports the Caucus’ goals of elevating the voices of survivors and partnering with experts to advance policies to prevent human trafficking, recover and support survivors, and hold traffickers accountable,” said Esther Goetsch, Executive Director, TAT.

“PACT—Protect All Children from Trafficking—is thrilled to support the reconstitution of the bipartisan Combating Human Trafficking Congressional Caucus. Human trafficking in general, and the commercial sexual exploitation of children in particular, is a terrible crime that transcends national and international borders, and efforts to prevent it must transcend political divisions. PACT looks forward to working with caucus co-chairs David Valadao, Laurel Lee, Lucy McBath, and Troy Carter to advance survivor-centered legislation that strengthens federal anti-trafficking efforts, from supporting the work of federal agencies to prevent trafficking to ensuring accountability for platforms that facilitate exploitation,” said Aram Schvey, Senior Director of Policy and Government Relations, PACT.

“The Empowerment Dess Perkins Foundation, is honored to be a part of the Combating Human Trafficking Congressional Caucus, standing in commitment to protecting our youth, vulnerable individuals, and advancing meaningful solutions to end human trafficking. As a survivor, I believe that what happens to one of us should be the business of all of us. I speak for those who cannot, turning my pain into purpose, helping create legislation, and using my voice to advocate for prevention, protection future generations, and hope for survivors everywhere,” said Dess Perkins, CEO, the Empowerment Dess Perkins Foundation.

“As Sheriff of Kings County, I’m fully committed to this coordinated effort to combat human trafficking both locally and across California’s Central Valley. Like many smaller communities, Kings County has been directly impacted by this crime, and I strongly support measures that increase penalties and strengthen collaborative enforcement efforts. Human trafficking is far more widespread than many realize and often goes unreported. I’m grateful to the Combating Human Trafficking Congressional Caucus for taking meaningful action to fight back,” said Dave Putnam, Sheriff, Kings County.

“The Central Valley Justice Coalition is deeply grateful and encouraged by the formation of the bipartisan Combating Human Trafficking Congressional Caucus. Since 2010, the Justice Coalition has been focused on preventing human trafficking through education, partnership, and outreach. We are pleased to see our elected officials giving appropriate priority to prevention and early intervention combined with systemic change and informed by survivor voice. We look forward to future conversations as together we work to bring freedom and flourishing to every member of our community,” said Christa Wiens, Executive Director, Central Valley Justice Coalition.

“Fresno EOC Central Valley Against Human Trafficking is proud to support the launch of the bipartisan Combating Human Trafficking Congressional Caucus. We are encouraged to see leaders coming together to strengthen national efforts to prevent trafficking and support survivors. As a direct service provider and leading organization of the Central Valley Freedom Coalition, a regional collaborative within California’s Central Valley, we recognize the critical role federal leadership plays in advancing victim-centered responses and prevention strategies. We look forward to continued collaboration to ensure all survivors receive the support and protection they deserve,” said Misty Gattie-Blanco, MS, Director for Sanctuary and Support Services, Central Valley Against Human Trafficking.

“We support the launch of the bipartisan Combating Human Trafficking Congressional Caucus and the opportunity it creates to strengthen coordination and prevention across sectors. Our work, delivered in partnership with frontline organizations and informed by lived experience, shows that addressing trafficking and exploitation requires trauma-informed approaches, stronger systems, and sustained collaboration. Human trafficking is a global issue that demands shared accountability, and we are committed to strengthening prevention and supporting vulnerable populations,” said Sarah de Carvalho, CEO, It’s a Penalty.

“Human trafficking cannot be addressed without centering the expertise of survivors and the organizations working alongside them every day. The formation of the Congressional Combating Human Trafficking Caucus signals a meaningful commitment to bipartisan leadership and survivor-informed policymaking. At 3Strands Global Foundation, we believe prevention, protection, and accountability must work together, and we look forward to partnering with members of Congress to advance solutions that strengthen communities and ensure survivors are not only heard, but empowered to help shape the policies that impact their lives,” said Ashlie Bryant, CEO and Co-Founder, 3Strands Global Foundation.

“Since 2012 Without Permission has served 1,162 survivors of sex trafficking throughout Stanislaus and San Joaquin counties, 732 of those were children under the age of 18. Without Permission has three pillars, Prevention, Restoration, and Justice. In Prevention alone we have educated over 50,000 students. In Restoration we work to restore the survivors and support their families on their healing journey. Our Justice department works with District Attorneys, Law Enforcement agencies, and collaborates to provide trainings and education for further victim support and prevention. Without Permission exists to end sex trafficking and we are thrilled and honored to support the Combatting Human Trafficking Congressional Caucus. We believe this Caucus will make a huge difference in the fight against Human Trafficking,” said Clint Rangel, Director of Prevention, Without Permission.

“The Kern Coalition Against Human Trafficking (KCAHT) stands in staunch support of victims and survivors of human trafficking through coordinated, community-based action. Since 2012, KCAHT has led a multidisciplinary approach that unites law enforcement, service providers, and community partners to deliver survivor-centered solutions and disrupt exploitation. KCAHT supports the Combating Human Trafficking Congressional Caucus and its commitment to advancing evidence-based policy, strengthening prevention and enforcement efforts, and elevating survivor voices at the national level. We commend the Caucus for its bipartisan leadership and focus on practical, survivor-informed solutions. We stay committed to working alongside federal, state, and local leaders to drive meaningful policy, expand access to critical services, and hold traffickers accountable. Thank you for your continued leadership and dedication to combating human trafficking across the United States,” said Dustin Contreras, Co-Director, Kern Coalition Against Human Trafficking.

“Kings Community Action Organization is proud to support the Combating Human Trafficking Congressional Caucus and its bipartisan commitment to strengthening prevention, protection, and prosecution efforts nationwide. The caucus’s focus on elevating survivor voices, improving coordination across all levels of government, and advancing evidence based policies reflects our shared mission to protect vulnerable populations and hold traffickers accountable. We look forward to collaborating on initiatives that promote safety, justice, and meaningful support for all impacted by trafficking,” said Joey Cox, M.A, Director of Intervention, Prevention, and Support Services, Kings Community Action Organization.

“The California Commission on Sexual Exploitation is proud to support the launch of the bipartisan Combating Human Trafficking Congressional Caucus. This effort represents a critical step toward strengthening national coordination to prevent trafficking, protect survivors, and hold perpetrators accountable. We commend the leadership of the caucus founders for prioritizing this urgent issue and fostering collaboration across sectors. We look forward to supporting the caucus’s work to advance meaningful policies and solutions that address human trafficking in all its forms,” said Dr. Tiara King, CEO, California Commission on Sexual Exploitation.

“The formation of the Congressional Combating Human Trafficking Caucus is a critical step forward in our nation’s fight against one of the most heinous crimes imaginable. We are grateful to Rep. Valadao, McBath, Lee, and Carter for standing together in this bipartisan effort. At Street Grace, we know that lasting change requires bold policy, survivor-centered solutions, and unwavering political will and this caucus represents all three. We look forward to partnering with Congress to ensure that every child is protected and every trafficker is held accountable.” said Bob Rodgers, CEO, Street Grace.

Caucus priorities include:

• Highlighting legislation that advances evidence-based prevention, programs, and other initiatives to combat human trafficking, including sex and labor trafficking.
• Supporting and enhancing the work of federal agencies to prevent trafficking, disrupt financial networks, improve data collection, hold perpetrators accountable, and protect trafficking survivors.
• Promoting sustained coordination among federal, state, and local partners to address trafficking ahead of large-scale events.
• Advancing policies that ensure access to economic stability, legal remedies, and supportive services for victims of human trafficking. 
• Protecting youth and vulnerable populations through online safety safeguards, early intervention, and accountability for platforms that facilitate exploitation.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Dina Titus (1st District of Nevada)

Today Congresswoman Dina Titus (NV-01) and Congressman Johnny Olszewski (MD-02) introduced legislation to help ensure that the State Department makes disability rights an international priority. 

The State Department Disability Policy and Accommodations Act would establish in law the Office of International Disability Rights at the U.S. State Department, to be supervised by a Special Advisor of International Disability Rights. The Special Advisor position has not been filled since the start of the Trump Administration. 

Under the bipartisan bill, the Office of International Disability Rights would lead efforts to promote the rights of people with disabilities around the world. The legislation also requires State Department personnel to undergo disability inclusion training.

“The full inclusion of people with disabilities is a fundamental aspect of democracy, and it must be a priority for U.S. foreign policy,” said Congresswoman Titus (NV-01), a senior member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee. “This legislation will help ensure that the State Department uses its diplomatic tools to lead by example and promote the empowerment of persons with disabilities worldwide. We must regain our footing on the world stage as the champion of human rights for all people.”

“America leads best when we lead with our values,” said Congressman Johnny Olszewski (MD-02). “This bill ensures that inclusion isn’t an afterthought but a cornerstone of U.S. foreign policy. It gives our diplomats the tools, training, and structure to build a world where every person can contribute fully, freely, and has a seat at the table. It’s the right thing to do and the smart thing to do for long-term peace and prosperity.”

Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA) Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) also introduced their companion bill to the State Department Disability Policy and Accommodations Act today. 

“Promoting international disability rights is the right thing to do and can significantly boost global security and prosperity,” said Senator Kaine (D-VA), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations and Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committees. “There’s so much more the U.S. can do on this issue. I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing this legislation to enhance U.S. engagement on disability rights around the world and ensure State Department staff with disabilities have access to equal opportunities.”

“Every single one of us is just one bad day away from becoming disabled, and we should do everything we can to ensure that members of the disability community can live full lives wherever they reside,” said Senator Duckworth (D-IL). “I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing this bill to highlight the importance of protecting the rights of people with disabilities around the world and to help ensure that all State Department programs provide equal access to the opportunities people deserve.”

Full text of the House legislation is available here.

Background

This bill seeks to strengthen how the U.S. Department of State promotes disability rights internationally and ensures accessibility and inclusion within its own workforce and overseas facilities.

1. Elevating Disability Rights in U.S. Foreign Policy

• Declares that promoting international disability rights is essential to global peace, stability, and prosperity.
• Requires the Secretary of State, within 180 days, to develop a formal policy guiding U.S. diplomacy and foreign assistance on disability rights.
• The policy must be developed in consultation with U.S. missions, civil society, international organizations, and individuals with disabilities, including women, indigenous persons, youth, and combat-injured partners abroad.
• The policy must be incorporated into the Foreign Affairs Manual and made publicly available.

2. Strengthening the Office of International Disability Rights

• Codifies and strengthens the Office of International Disability Rights at the State Department.
• Requires the office to:
  • Coordinate U.S. international disability policy and assistance across the government.
  • Collect and track data on spending and programs promoting disability rights abroad.
  • Facilitate interagency cooperation and promote exchanges with disability policymakers and advocates.
• The office will be led by a Senate-confirmed Ambassador-at-Large for International Disability Rights.
• Requires the State Department to develop an International Disability Rights Strategy within one year, including priority countries, funding sources, and partnerships.
• Mandates annual reports to Congress on implementation and funding.
• Authorizes $6 million annually (FY2025–FY2030) to support the office.

3. Accessibility and Hiring within the State Department

• Requires the State Department to ensure equal access to hiring, recruitment, and overseas assignments for employees with disabilities and family members with disabilities.
• Mandates accessibility of embassies, consulates, websites, and communications, consistent with U.S. accessibility standards.
• Encourages contractors and overseas partners to hire workers with disabilities.
• Requires policies to ensure reasonable accommodations for both U.S. personnel and locally employed staff abroad.

4. Training and Capacity Building

• Requires mandatory disability policy training for State Department civil service and Foreign Service personnel and chiefs of mission.
• Training must cover inclusive policymaking, workplace compliance with disability law, engagement with disability organizations, and integrating disability considerations into humanitarian and development programs.
• Foreign Service training must include country-specific disability rights contexts.

5. Reporting Requirements

• Requires the State Department to provide annual reports and briefings to Congress describing:
  • Implementation of the law
  • Disability-inclusive diplomacy and programming
  • Accessibility of overseas facilities
  • Data collection and program outcomes
  • Remaining policy or staffing gaps.

6. Judy Heumann Foreign and Civil Service Disability Fellowship

• Establishes a Judy Heumann Disability Fellowship for State Department personnel.
• Each year at least two civil or Foreign Service officers will complete 6–12 month placements with organizations led by persons with disabilities.
• Fellows will study international disability frameworks and participate in global disability rights forums.
• Annual reports to Congress will summarize the fellowship’s outcomes.

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

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology is holding a Full Committee Markup for H.R. 7813, NOAA Weather Radio Modernization Act.

Ranking Member Zoe Lofgren’s (D-CA) opening statement as prepared for the record is below:

Thank you, Chairman Babin. Today, we are considering the NOAA Weather Radio Modernization Act. 

 I am excited to consider this bill today because the NOAA weather radio is a valued service used by many Americans across the country. Countless lives and immeasurable property have been saved by the timely and accurate reporting provided by NOAA weather radio. Now we will modernize it and make it even more remarkable and accessible. This bill is a long time in the making and will help the public prepare for all sorts of inclement weather as well as floods and other serious natural hazards. 

Just on Monday, here in Washington, we had numerous storm systems that brought dangerous weather to the area. During these types of storms, NOAA weather radio provides life saving warnings to alert people when to take shelter.

This is something that is critical for all areas of our country. In my own district, just a few years ago we had widespread flooding from “atmospheric rivers” that dumped huge amounts of rain in California. This led to the failure of a local levee, which caused devastating flooding to the community of Pajaro.

Last year, flash floods in Texas led to the Central Texas Flood Tragedy where at least 135 people were lost – many of them children. I want to continue to extend my deepest sympathies to the families and friends of the victims of that horrible tragedy. I hope that what we accomplish today may prevent a similar event from ever happening again.

While I support this bipartisan bill, I would be remiss if I did not bring up that this bill is Republican led, much like the Weather Act Reauthorization and the NASA reauthorization, making this the third markup in a row without any Democratic Member-led bills. In fact, the last time we marked up Democratic Member-led bill was last June. I sincerely hope that before we hold another markup in the Science Committee, we can work together to identify some bipartisan Democratic Member-led bills to add to the agenda.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman, I yield back. 

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Darren Soto (D-FL)

The funds are granted to support transit agencies in buying and rehabilitating buses, as well as building and rehabilitating bus facilities

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Brett Guthrie (2nd District Kentucky)

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Brett Guthrie (KY-02) released the following statement following the House Committee on Natural Resources Subcommittee on Federal Lands’ Legislative Hearing on his Mammoth Cave National Park Boundary Adjustment Act. This hearing featured testimony from Edmonson County Judge Executive Scott Lindsey, who testified to the significant economic and cultural impacts this bill would have on Kentucky’s Second District. 

“I’m grateful to the House Committee on Natural Resources for taking an important step to advance my Mammoth Cave National Park Boundary Adjustment Act by conducting today’s legislative hearing,” said Congressman Guthrie. “My bill will not only improve the visitor experience at the Park, but it will also expand countless economic opportunities for the local communities surrounding Mammoth Cave.”

A written statement for the record, submitted by Congressman Guthrie, can be found here.

A written statement for the record, submitted by Judge Lindsey, can be found here.

Photos from today’s hearing can be found here.
Background:

The Mammoth Cave National Park Boundary Adjustment Act was introduced by Congressman Guthrie and Senator Mitch McConnell on May 8, 2025. 

This bill would give the park the ability to acquire an additional 551.14 acres of land from The Nature Conservancy. This newly acquired land would enhance protections in the Green River watershed, further conserving the area’s wildlife and cultural heritage while generating additional tourism to Kentucky’s Second District.

Edmonson County Judge Executive Scott Lindsey’s Opening Statement as prepared for delivery:

“Chairman Tiffany, Ranking Member Neguse, and members of the Subcommittee, thank you for allowing me to testify today on behalf of Congressman Brett Guthrie and his bill, H.R. 3286, the Mammoth Cave National Park Boundary Adjustment Act of 2025. I appreciate the opportunity to speak about the importance of Mammoth Cave National Park not only to my county, Edmonson County, but to surrounding counties and the entire Commonwealth of Kentucky.

“Officially established as a National Park in 1941, Mammoth Cave National Park is home to the world’s longest known cave system, with more than 400 miles of surveyed underground passageways and miles still unexplored. The park’s roughly 52,000 acres extend across Edmonson, Barren, and Hart counties and provide a wide range of recreational opportunities including cave tours, hiking, camping, horseback riding, canoeing, kayaking, and fishing.

“What makes Mammoth Cave truly unique is that it operates on two levels: a rich forested landscape and river system above ground, and an extraordinary cave network below. Together, these features create one of the most remarkable natural environments in the United States.

“For generations, Mammoth Cave has served as a place of discovery for visitors, scientists, and students. The cave system preserves an incredible record of geological history while also protecting important cultural resources. Evidence of early exploration, prehistoric activity, and historic mining remains throughout the cave system. These resources make Mammoth Cave not only a natural wonder, but also a valuable site for scientific research, education, and historical preservation.

“The park is also a major economic engine for our region. Visitors from across the country and around the world travel to Kentucky not only for horse racing, bourbon, and Abraham Lincoln’s birthplace, but also to explore Mammoth Cave National Park. In 2024 alone, approximately 747,000 visitors came to the park and spent an estimated $73.2 million in nearby communities. Those expenditures supported more than 880 jobs and generated nearly $100 million in economic output for the local economy.

“For rural communities like mine, those numbers matter. Tourism connected to Mammoth Cave supports local restaurants, hotels, outfitters, and small businesses throughout the region.

“The legislation before you today would help strengthen that impact while also protecting critical natural resources. H.R. 3286 would authorize the Secretary of the Interior to acquire approximately 551 acres of land currently owned by The Nature Conservancy and incorporate it into Mammoth Cave National Park.

“This property lies within the Green River watershed, one of the most biologically diverse aquatic ecosystems in the United States. The area contains numerous cave passages, including Coach Cave and James Cave, which provide important habitat for endangered bat species. Protecting these habitats is essential for the recovery of these species and for the long-term ecological health of the region.

“Equally important, these caves contain significant cultural and archaeological resources. Evidence suggests these caves played a role in early American history through saltpeter mining during the War of 1812 and contains signatures left by Civil War soldiers who explored the cave in 1862.

“No organization is better equipped to protect these natural and cultural resources than the National Park Service and the experts at Mammoth Cave National Park.

“I also want to emphasize an important point: this acquisition involves land already owned by The Nature Conservancy. No additional private property is involved. The property is already under a conservation easement that restricts development, and because of its nonprofit ownership status, the county is not currently collecting property taxes on it. Therefore, the transfer of this land into the park will not reduce our local tax base.

“The purchase price for the property is just under $1 million and will be funded through the Land and Water Conservation Fund along with National Park Service allocations. Importantly, it is my understanding that all sale proceeds received by The Nature Conservancy will be reimbursed back to the Imperiled Bat Conservation Fund to support future conservation efforts.  

“This legislation has strong support from local leaders, regional organizations, and conservation partners across Kentucky.

“As County Judge Executive, one of my priorities is supporting local businesses and encouraging economic growth in our rural communities. Expanding and protecting Mammoth Cave National Park helps accomplish both goals. This investment will safeguard critical habitat, preserve irreplaceable historical resources, and expand recreational opportunities for future generations.

“Most importantly, it will continue to drive tourism and economic development for communities across south-central Kentucky.

“Thank you again, Chairman Tiffany, Ranking Member Neguse, and members of the Subcommittee, for holding this hearing and for the opportunity to testify today. I appreciate your consideration of H.R. 3286 and look forward to answering any questions you may have.”

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

Source: United States House of Representatives – Reprepsentative Kathy Castor (FL14)

WASHINGTON, D.C.  – Today, U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL-14) and 122 House Democrats, led by House Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition (SEEC) Clean Energy Deployment Task Force Co-Chairs U.S. Reps. Sean Casten (IL-06) and Mike Levin (CA-49) introduced the Energy Bills Relief Act, a family- and consumer-focused approach to United States energy policy that ensures Americans have access to the most reliable and low-cost source of power available – renewable energy.

The SEEC Energy Bills Relief Act incorporates legislative priorities to lower energy costs for hardworking American families that U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor has championed in Congress, including policies to connect more clean energy to the grid, deploy advanced technologies, and protect families and small businesses from rising power demand.

“Trump and Congressional Republicans are making electric bills unaffordable for our neighbors back home,” said Castor. “American families deserve better than a constant struggle with the high cost of living. Clean energy is the fastest, lowest-cost resource we can add to our electric grid to help lower bills. I’m thankful for Reps. Casten and Levin’s leadership, and I’m proud to support legislation that lowers costs and commits to clean energy innovation.”

Text of the legislation can be found here.

A section-by-section can be found here.

A one-page summary can be found here. A three-page summary can be found here.

Statements of support from key issues advocacy organizations and industry leaders can be found here.

The Energy Bills Relief Act prioritizes consumers and ensures access to low-cost energy for our homes, businesses, and economy by:

• Reinstating tax credits for home and system-wide energy improvements that were ended by President Trump and Congressional Republicans
• Incentivizing utility companies to save consumers’ money by rewarding them for making their systems more efficient, thereby lowering bills 
• Providing financial assistance to American families to make sure their power isn’t shut off
• Cracking down on price gouging, so energy companies can’t take advantage of you to boost their profits
• Ensuring that facilities like data centers are paying for their own costs because it’s not fair for their expenses to be pushed onto your household if one opens in your area
• Giving a voice to the American people so they can benefit from energy projects in their community

Electricity rates are surging nationwide, and millions of households are struggling to pay their rising energy bills. The most effective way to lower utility costs for American households is to expand access to renewable energy — the most reliable and low-cost energy source.

We have the tools to power America with abundant, reliable, American-made clean energy. The missing link between those tools and expanded access to that low-cost and efficient energy is a consumer-first energy policy. 

For too long, U.S. energy policy has boosted the profits of energy producers at the expense of energy consumers. The Energy Bills Relief Act shifts our focus to lowering costs and increasing reliability for American homes and businesses by deploying more renewable energy. It is firmly rooted in the American values of choice and competition. It prioritizes consumers and ensures access to low-cost energy for our homes, businesses, and economy.

The Energy Bills Relief Act is what American families need to see costs go down, reliability go up, and ensure our electric grid can meet rising demand.

Last September, Reps. Casten and Levin released a discussion draft of the legislation under the name of the Cheap Energy Act.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Hank Johnson (GA-04)

Congressman Scores 100% – Top in GA Delegation – Highest Lifetime Score of 97% 

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) announced today he earned a perfect 100 percent from The League of Conservation Voters (LCV) on their 2025 National Environmental Scorecard, which tallies the performance of every member of Congress every year on key environmental votes.

Rep. Johnson’s lifetime LCV score is 97 percent, one of the highest in the Georgia delegation. Congressman Johnson, a member of the Safe Climate Caucus, is regularly honored for his environmental voting record and advocacy on part of the National Park System and advocacy for the expansion of clean energy.

“As the Trump administration pursues its disastrous ‘drill-baby-drill’ policies, the American people and the planet suffer,” said Rep. Johnson. “We see what over-reliance on fossil fuels and a myopic energy policy looks like, and it’s not good. Voting to protect our natural resources and the planet from existential climate change isn’t difficult, it’s just common sense. I urge my Republican colleagues to get the heads out of Trump’s ass, find a backbone and a little common sense themselves before it’s too late.”

The average House score was 48 percent.

For more than 50 years, the National Environmental Scorecard issued by LCV has been the nationally accepted yardstick used to rate members of Congress on environmental, public health, and energy issues. For more information, visit http://scorecard.lcv.org.

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