MIL USHOR-2b Engine

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman John Garamendi – Representing California’s 3rd Congressional District

Source: United States House of Representatives – Rep Ro Khanna (CA-17)

Washington, DC — Today, Representative Ro Khanna reintroduced the Gasoline Export Ban Act of 2026 to prohibit the exportation of gasoline during periods of high gasoline prices. The export ban begins when the average price for gasoline in the United States has been equal to or higher than $3.12 per gallon for seven consecutive days and would lower costs at the pump for struggling Americans.  

This legislation comes as Trump’s illegal and immoral war in Iran drives the U.S. average gas price to over $4 per gallon, a more than $1 increase over the past two months. The bill would quickly issue relief to the 69% of Americans who are concerned about higher gas prices as Trump continues to execute reckless foreign policy. 

“As the Trump administration continues to betray Americans and extend the war with Iran, Congress needs to step in and put the interests of our hard-working constituents first. I’m proud to re-introduce the Gasoline Export Ban of 2026 and take action to lower gas prices and put America first,” said Rep. Ro Khanna

“As Trump-inspired chaos in the Middle East only deepens, America families are being fleeced at the pump by opportunistic oil companies seeking to boost domestic gasoline prices and keep them inflated indefinitely,” said Mitch Jones, managing director of policy and litigation at Food & Water Watch. “Rep. Khanna’s smart legislation to halt gasoline exports is suddenly more important than ever, as it would provide quick, substantive relief for everyday Americans who have been struggling with economy-wide inflation for years.”

Read the full text of the legislation here.

The bill seeks to:

•  Ban the export of gasoline beginning on any day on which the average price for gasoline in the United States has been equal to or higher than $3.12 per gallon for each of the preceding 7 days.
• End the export ban on the next day on which the average price for gasoline in the United States has been less than $3.12 per gallon for each of the preceding 7 days.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Suzan DelBene (1st District of Washington)

Today, Representatives Suzan DelBene (WA-01) and Greg Steube (FL-17) introduced the Optimizing Participant Tax Incentives through Optional Noncash Selections (OPTIONS) Act, bipartisan legislation that would clarify existing gaps in the Internal Revenue Service’s (IRS) rules governing employer contributions to employee benefit plans. 

In May 2024, the IRS allowed a single employer to implement a flexible benefits program allocating contributions to employee retirement accounts, Health Savings Accounts, Health Reimbursement Accounts, and educational assistance programs. While this was a positive step, the fact that it granted unique permission for one specific employer has created uncertainty for others interested in adopting a similar flexible benefit package for their employees. The OPTIONS Act resolves this problem, extending the flexible benefits model to all employers. 

“Workers want more flexibility in their financial planning, but employer contributions are mostly limited to retirement accounts currently. With many employees wanting to prioritize student loans and health care bills, this legislation would let them direct their employer contributions to these needs. This commonsense bipartisan bill would give workers more options while ensuring those focused on retirement can continue to save,” said DelBene.

“American workers deserve more freedom and true financial security when it comes to their benefits,” said Steube. “Unfortunately, ongoing confusion and inconsistencies with IRS rules governing employer contributions to benefit plans have shortchanged millions of Americans of potential savings. That is why I am introducing the OPTIONS Act to ensure workers have more choices and better benefits at the workplace.” 

“American workers don’t all face the same financial challenges, so their benefits shouldn’t be one-size-fits-all,” said American Retirement Association (ARA) CEO Brian Graff. “The OPTIONS Act is a smart, forward-looking solution that empowers employees to direct employer contributions where they need them most, whether that’s retirement savings, healthcare, or paying down student debt. ARA applauds Representatives Steube and DelBene for their bipartisan leadership on this important legislation, which strengthens financial security while preserving the integrity of our employer-sponsored system.”

Read the full bill text here.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jason Crow (CO-06)

WASHINGTON — Senator Michael Bennet (D-CO) and Congressman Jason Crow (D-CO) have introduced a congressional resolution recognizing the 10th anniversary of the Columbine Day of Service and remembering the victims of the Columbine High School shooting twenty-seven years ago. 

On the annual Columbine Day of Service, Americans are encouraged to honor and remember the lives lost at Columbine High School by doing good and giving back to their communities. In 2024, over 1,600 participants across six states and ten countries participated in sixty projects to better their communities.  

“Twenty-seven years ago, young lives were taken at Columbine High School and Colorado was forever changed,” said Senator Bennet. “Since then, entire generations have grown up with the fear that a mass shooting could touch their own lives. That cannot be our normal. Today is a time to honor those we lost, stand with those whose lives were forever changed, and renew our commitment to preventing such senseless violence across America.”

“April 20th remains a deeply painful day for Coloradans, especially for the community, survivors, and families of those we lost twenty-seven years ago. My heart is with them and every American who’s been impacted by gun violence,” said Congressman Crow. “I’m proud to represent a community that honors this day with service—embodying the best of Colorado and America—and I’m proud to join my friend Senator Michael Bennet in introducing this resolution. Today, Congress recognizes the resilience, strength, and service of Coloradans.”

Senator Bennet and Congressman Crow have consistently fought for lifesaving measures to end gun violence. Both leaders were champions of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, the first comprehensive gun safety reform package in nearly thirty years. Bennet and Crow have called to expand background checks on gun sales to help reduce gun violence across the country. 

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Sean Casten (IL-06)

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (12th District of Michigan)

 U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06), alongside U.S. Representatives Rudy Yakym (R-IN-02), Brad Schneider (D-IL-10), and Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA-01), introduced legislation to expand Medicare coverage for remote patient monitoring services furnished by nephrologists to individuals with end stage renal disease receiving home dialysis. The bipartisan legislation is called the Keeping Individuals with Dialysis Needs Equipped through Year-round Remote Monitoring Act, known as the KIDNEY Remote Monitoring Act.

“Kidney disease remains a serious and widespread health concern across the United States and demands more innovative care solutions,” Congresswoman Dingell said. “This legislation will help patients stay healthier, reduce costly appointments, and ensure they receive the treatment they need at a price they can afford. It will modernize life-saving care and make it more affordable, accessible, and effective.” 

End stage renal disease (ESRD) affects hundreds of thousands of Americans, many of whom manage their condition through home dialysis. Research shows remote patient monitoring (RPM) meaningfully improves outcomes for these patients, including a 45 percent lower rate of all-cause mortality, a 51 percent lower rate of cardiovascular-related deaths, and a 69 percent lower rate of hospitalizations from fluid overload. RPM has also been shown to reduce one to two hospitalizations, and two to five emergency room visits per patient annually, producing roughly $23,000 in cost savings per patient.

Despite these benefits, a Medicare billing quirk discourages nephrologists from using RPM. Cardiologists, endocrinologists, nephrologists, and other specialists can bill RPM through Medicare Part B for patients with chronic kidney disease. But when their disease progresses and they are diagnosed with ESRD, Medicare folds the cost of RPM into the Monthly Capitation Payment within the ESRD bundle, effectively limiting access to this technology. The KIDNEY Remote Monitoring Act corrects this disparity, allowing remote physiologic monitoring ordered by a nephrologist to be reimbursed outside the capitated payment bundle, ensuring better access to remote monitoring for patients with ESRD. 

“Home dialysis patients deserve access to the same tools other Medicare patients already benefit from,” Congressman Yakym said. “Right now, a cardiologist and a nephrologist can order the exact same remote monitoring service for the same patient, but only one of them gets reimbursed fairly for it. The KIDNEY Remote Monitoring Act is a commonsense fix that removes a bureaucratic barrier and better serves patients.”

“Expanding Medicare coverage for remote patient monitoring will strengthen kidney care to improve patient outcomes,” Congressman Schneider said. “I am proud that companies like Vantive Health – headquartered right here in my district – are at the forefront of developing and delivering this cutting-edge remote monitoring technology. The KIDNEY Remote Monitoring Act will ensure Medicare coverage for device setup, patient education, and the secure transmission of health data to physicians, providing reliable care for patients from the safety and comfort of their homes.”

“As a physician, I’ve seen how early intervention can make all the difference for patients with complex conditions like ESRD,” Congresswoman Miller-Meeks said. “Remote monitoring allows providers to stay connected to patients in real time, improving care and reducing costly complications. This is a commonsense step to modernize care and support patients on home dialysis.”

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Carol Miller (R-WV)

Washington, D.C. – Last week, Congresswoman Miller (R-WV) joined Representatives Bruce Westerman (R-AR) and Danny K. Davis (D-IL), as well as Senators Cramer (R-ND) and Klobuchar (D-MN) in reintroducing the bipartisan, bicameral Second Chance Month Resolution. 

“In West Virginia, we know how important it is to provide everyone with opportunities to succeed. Recognizing April as Second Chance Month gives hope to those who are reentering the workforce after serving their time incarcerated. When we invest in our communities and put in place resources and support for people released from prisons and jails, we build stronger and safer communities. This resolution will bring more visibility to Second Chance programs that are instrumental in helping people across the nation get back on the right path as they reenter their communities,” said Congresswoman Miller.

“This is a nation of second chances. Offering incarcerated Americans the opportunity to succeed by reducing barriers preventing them from establishing good-paying jobs and earning sought-after respect is a critical key to reducing recidivism rates. By investing in these individuals who have proven to be committed to rectifying their mistakes, we are investing in the future success and safety of our communities. I am proud to introduce this resolution to recognize April as Second Chance Month. This piece of legislation champions second chances while highlighting the importance of restoring hope to individuals looking to reintegrate back into their communities with dignity,” said Congressman Westerman.

“There are millions of individuals in our country who have civil and criminal records that serve as barriers to obtaining education, technical skills, training, jobs, and government benefits. Second chances – and especially the Second Chance Act – help to reduce and remove these barriers.  Therefore, I am proud to join my colleagues in recognizing Second Chance Month.  Second Chance Month honors the work of non-profit organizations, faith-based entities, communities, governments, employers, and individuals that help those with records gain the skills, education, and employment needed to thrive, thereby strengthening individuals, rebuilding families, and growing our economy,” said Congressman Davis.

“As Prison Fellowship marks its 50th anniversary, the Second Chance Month resolution reflects our longstanding commitment to justice that restores. We know that when unnecessary barriers to reentry are removed, people are better equipped to succeed, making our neighborhoods safer and stronger for everyone,” said Scott Peyton, Director of Government Affairs for Prison Fellowship.

Read the full resolution text here.

Background:

• This resolution recognizes April as Second Chance Month, raising awareness for unlocking opportunities for successful reentry into society following incarceration that ultimately reduces recidivism rates.
• Millions of American adults with a criminal record face enormous obstacles to successfully re-enter society upon release. When legal and social barriers prohibit a formerly incarcerated person from finding well-paying jobs, this not only negatively impacts them, but also has lasting negative effects for their families. Beyond that, securing gainful employment and being accepted in society has been proven to reduce the likelihood of these individuals returning to prison in the future, ultimately decreasing crime and improving public safety.
• This resolution is supported by Prison Fellowship, American Correctional Association, Brennan Center for Justice, CPAC, Due Process Institute, FAMM, Major County Sheriffs of America, Modern Fortis, National District Attorneys Association, Niskanen Center, Right on Crime, and Unify.US.

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

Washington, D.C. — Tuesday, April 14,  2026, Representatives Alma S. Adams, Ph.D. (NC-12), Joe Courtney (CT-02),Scott Peters (CA-50) along with Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA), Corey Booker (D-NJ), and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) introduced a Congressional Review Act. Legislation to prevent the executive branch from limiting eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program beyond the statutes that have been outlined by Congress. 

The bill, led by Rep. Courtney, comes amidst efforts from President Donald Trump and Education Secretary Linda McMahon to limit PSLF eligibility based on subjective criteria. 

“The Public Service Loan Forgiveness program is a lifeline for countless Americans who have chosen careers in teaching, nursing, social work, and other vital roles in public service,” said Adams, Ranking Member of the House Higher Education and Workforce Development Subcommittee. “In North Carolina, 1 in every 14 classrooms lacks a teacher with proper licensure and 13 percent of nursing positions sit unfilled. Easing the financial burden of education for these careers is vital. Allowing the Trump Administration to weaponize this program for political purposes is a betrayal of the promise we made to these dedicated workers. I am proud to stand with my colleagues in defending PSLF and ensuring that our public servants receive the loan forgiveness they have earned.”

“The Public Service Loan Forgiveness program was created in 2007 as a nonpolitical program to lower the cost of college, reward careers in public service ranging from military service, nursing, teaching, and public safety, and help fill critical positions that our communities need. This new rule by President Trump and Secretary of Education McMahon would pick and choose which public servants are eligible for forgiveness based on the Trump Administration’s ideological agenda, which clearly goes against Congressional intent,” said Courtney. “I will continue to fight against the Trump Department of Education’s unlawful degradation of PSLF, and I will continue working to improve this patriotic program so that it lives up to the promise it makes to America’s hardworking public servants.”

“San Diego’s public servants, teachers, nurses, and doctors tirelessly serve our community and rely on the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program’s promise that their student loans will eventually be forgiven. The PSLF program was created to reward those who choose to pursue careers in public service, yet the recent changes by the Trump Administration threaten to drive essential public servants out of these lines of work. We should strengthen this program, not undermine it. I am proud to co-lead this effort to protect the PSLF program for current and future public servants,” said Peters.

“Americans benefit from highly qualified teachers, firefighters, nonprofit hospital staff, social workers, and other critical public servants,” said Kaine. “But now the Department of Education wants to turn those incredible people into pawns in the Trump Administration’s ridiculous, politically motivated crusades. That’s unfair to the millions of Americans who have dedicated their careers to serving their fellow citizens and is a direct threat to the quality of the services our communities rely on. I’m proud to join my colleagues in leading an effort to protect the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program from needless and dangerous politicization.”

“Student loan forgiveness should not be ripped away from public servants based on the president’s political agenda,” said Gillibrand. “Student borrowers who have chosen to serve their communities in the nonprofit or public sector, often for less pay than they could have otherwise earned, are counting on a promise from their government that their loans will ultimately be forgiven. The Trump administration’s move to retroactively deny student borrowers this benefit is disgraceful. I urge the Department of Education to focus on lowering costs for the constituents we all serve, not furthering Donald Trump’s partisan games.”

“Public Service Loan Forgiveness represents a promise we made to Americans who dedicate their careers to serving others,” said Booker. “Efforts to weaponize that promise for political purposes or to exclude eligible public servants undermines both the integrity of the program and our commitment to public service.”

A brief overview of the PSLF program:

Congress enacted the PSLF program with strong bipartisan support through legislation that was signed into law by President George W. Bush. The Trump Administration’s new rule would undermine the intent of the program. Specifically, the Trump Administration’s changes would:

• Politicize and destabilize the PSLF program, by allowing Secretary McMahon to limit eligibility based on a nonprofit’s mission or perceived ideological alignment, making the program vulnerable to shifting political priorities under any future administration.
• Grant overly broad and subjective discretion to the Department of Education, by permitting disqualification of employers deemed to have a “substantial illegal purpose”—an undefined and subjective standard that invites arbitrary and inconsistent enforcement.
• Target marginalized communities and the nonprofits that serve them.
• Discourage public service careers and weaken the nonprofit workforce.

Read the full text of the Congressional Review Act here.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett (USVI)

CONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT OFFERS CONDOLENCES ON THE PASSING OF VIOLETTE ROACH BROWNE

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (12th District of Michigan)

Today, Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) and Congresswoman  Rashida Tlaib (D-MI-12) introduced the Water Access and Affordability Act to establish the first-ever permanent, federal low-income water affordability program in the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

“Access to clean water is a basic human right, but too many families struggle to cover the cost of their water bills,” said Congresswoman Debbie Dingell. “This legislation provides much-needed support to help meet those basic needs, take on the cost of living crisis, and ensure no family has to go without clean water in their home.”

“Our families can’t live without access to water. We have a federal program for electricity and gas, but no permanent program for water. Millions of our neighbors across our country are having their water shut off simply because they cannot afford the rising bills,” said Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib. “Safe, accessible, and affordable drinking water is essential to public health, and many water utilities cannot afford to maintain their infrastructure. I am proud to introduce this legislation to create a permanent water affordability program at the EPA.”

The Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) that Congresswomen Dingell and Tlaib helped establish in 2021 kept people’s water flowing during the pandemic and saved countless lives—but that money has now run out and Congress has failed to appropriate new funding. The federal government must rapidly increase water assistance to households and public water utilities so that every low-income household has the safe, reliable water they need to live and thrive. Thousands of Michigan families depend on water assistance, and thousands more are still waiting for help, as available support falls well short of the need.

The Water Access and Affordability Act amends part of the Safe Drinking Water Act to establish the Low-Income Drinking Water Assistance Program. The program will include drinking water access financial assistance to low-income households, technical assistance for community water systems, and data collection and reporting. $20 billion would be appropriated annually for the next 10 years to carry out the program. The program will promote universal access to drinking water for all low-income households.

This legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Representatives Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO-05), Chris Deluzio (D-PA-17), Jimmy Gomez (D-CA-34), Jared Huffman (D-CA-02), Sara Jacobs (D-CA-51), Pramila Jayapal (D-WA-07), Summer Lee (D-PA-12), Kevin Mullin (D-CA-15), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), Delia Ramirez (D-IL-03), Shri Thanedar (D-MI-13), and Nydia Velázquez (D-NY-07).

The Water Access and Affordability Act is endorsed by the Congressional Progressive Caucus.

A full copy of the legislation can be found HERE.