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Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Nanette Diaz Barragán (CA-44)

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  

December 12, 2025

Contact: Jin.Choi@mail.house.gov

Rep. Barragán Responds to FCC’s Decision to Publish Multilingual Wireless Emergency Alerts Requirements, After Leading Letter Demanding Their Implementation

Washington, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Nanette Barragán (CA-44) released the following statement in response to the FCC’s recent publishing of the multilingual wireless emergency alert order in the Federal Register:

“I’m pleased to see the FCC take this important first step toward ensuring that immigrants, tourists, and other non-English speakers have the information they need to stay safe during emergency situations. Lives are on the line, and I’ll be watching closely to ensure that the FCC and mobile service providers follow through and work in good faith to implement this critical policy.”

Earlier this year, Rep. Barragán led a letter to the FCC to demand that it stop delaying and publish the order so that communities with limited English proficiency could have the information they need to stay safe during emergencies. 

Companies will now have 30 months to update standards, design, develop, and deploy the templates.

To see the full text of the letter, click HERE. 

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mike Thompson Representing the 5th District of CALIFORNIA

Washington, D.C. — Today, Rep. Mike Thompson (CA-04) released the following statement in response to the House’s passage of the National Defense Authorization Act: 

“As a combat veteran, I know the horrors of war and will do everything in my power to prevent unnecessary conflict.

“That’s why I voted yes on the National Defense Authorization Act today. This bill restricts the President’s ability to direct military strikes without Congressional authorization and requires this administration turn over all documents on its Venezuelan boat strikes to Congress for an investigation.

“I’m proud that Democrats got the anti-trans healthcare provisions removed from this bill and fought to ensure this bill cracks down on wasteful defense purchases.”

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mike Thompson Representing the 5th District of CALIFORNIA

Washington – Today, the House Ways and Means Committee voted unanimously to advance H.R. 227, Rep. Mike Thompson’s Clergy Act, a major step forward in giving pastors and clergy members greater retirement security. Congressman Thompson co-leads this bipartisan bill with colleague Rep. Vince Fong (CA-20).

“Faith leaders play a critical role in supporting our communities — offering them the flexibility to opt in to Social Security as they plan for retirement just makes sense. I’m glad to co-lead this bipartisan effort with Rep. Fong and I look forward to continuing our work to pass this into law,” said Thompson.

“We know our faith leaders are the backbone of our communities, guiding moral and spiritual life across the Central Valley and our entire nation,” said Fong. “The Clergy Act gives them the freedom to re-enroll in Social Security if they previously opted out, empowering them to take greater control of their financial future.”

BACKGROUND 

The Clergy Act would establish a one-time re-enrollment window for clergy members who previously opted out of Social Security, many in their youth, to voluntarily opt back in. Some of our faith leaders opted out decades ago, often due to inaccurate advice or conscientious objection, only to later face significant financial hardship. Under current law, this opt-out is permanent. For clergy who have spent their lives serving their communities and congregations, this legislation restores the freedom to secure basic financial protection in retirement.

The Clergy Act creates a two-year window – covering taxable years beginning January 1, 2028, and January 1, 2029 – for eligible clergy members who previously opted out of Social Security to revoke their exemption and begin contributing. Importantly, this legislation does not modify existing Social Security regulations. Eligible clergy must still meet the standard 10-year contribution requirement to earn full retired-worker benefits, receiving benefits proportional to their contributions. The bill also requires the Internal Revenue System (IRS) and Social Security Administration to submit a plan to Congress outlining their strategy to inform clergy members of their eligibility to re-enroll. Historically, Congress has approved limited re-enrollment windows, including in 1999 under the Ticket to Work Act. 

The Clergy Act is supported by a broad coalition of faith-based and retirement security organizations, including the National Association of Evangelicals, Church Alliance, Evangelical Council of Financial Accountability (ECFA), and GuideStone Financial Resources, and Lancaster Baptist Church.

Today, the House Ways and Means Committee advanced the Clergy Act with overwhelming bipartisan support on a 40–0 vote. Now, the bill is ready to be considered by and voted on the House floor. Rep. Thompson will continue to work to urge the Speaker to bring the bill up for a vote. 

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

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman John Garamendi (CA-08), senior member of the House Armed Services Committee and Ranking Member of the Readiness Subcommittee, joined Rep. Ryan (NY-18) and 17 other Congressional Armed Services Committee Democrats demanding that the Department of Defense release any audio and/or visual footage of controversial follow-on strikes in the Caribbean on September 2nd, 2025. In addition to Congressional Democrats, President Trump previously called on the footage to be released.

“If Hegseth has nothing to hide, releasing all audio/visual footage from the Venezuela boat strikes should not be an issue for Hegseth,” said Congressman Garamendi. “I urge Hegseth to do the right thing and let the American people judge for themselves the whole story.”

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is reported to have given the order to ‘kill’ everyone aboard an alleged drug-trafficking boat coming from Venezuela. Additional strikes were ordered on the already-inoperable vessel, aimed at killing two survivors clinging to the wreckage.

Only eight Representatives have been granted access to the footage, which shows additional kinetic strikes on an alleged drug-trafficking boat in the Caribbean to kill two survivors clinging to the wreck.

House Intelligence Committee Ranking Member Jim Himes called the footage “one of the most troubling things” he has seen as a lawmaker, asserting that the survivors “were not in the position to continue their mission in any way.”

In addition to Reps. Garamendi and Ryan, the letter to Secretary Hegseth was signed by: Representatives Wesley Bell (MO-01), Gilbert Cisneros (CA-31), Herbert Conaway (NJ-03), Joe Courtney (CT-02), Jason Crow (CO-06), Chris Deluzio (PA-17), Sarah Elfreth (MD-03), Chrissy Houlahan (PA-06), Sara Jacobs (CA-52), Ro Khanna (CA-17), Seth Moulton (MA-02), Donald Norcross (NJ-01), Eric Sorensen (IL-17), Marilyn Strickland (WA-10), Jill Tokuda (HI-02), Derek Tran (CA-45), and Eugene Vindman (VA-07).

A copy of the letter to Secretary Hegseth is included below:

Dear Secretary Hegseth,

We write to request that you release all audio and video footage from the kinetic strikes on alleged drug boats in the Caribbean on September 2, 2025, including the follow-on strikes.

Our concern stems from reports that you, as Secretary of Defense, issued an order to “kill everybody,” followed by additional strikes seeking to kill the two remaining unarmed, shipwrecked individuals.

The American people deserve transparency on these attacks; it is your obligation to release the footage. We look forward to your prompt response and release of this footage to the public, as has already been promised by President Trump.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO-02)

Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO) released the following statement after she voted in support of the National Defense Authorization Act: 

“Our adversaries have made it clear they intend to exert their own reckless influence around the globe at the expense of our nation’s safety and security.  The stability of our world and the safety of Americans here at home and worldwide depends on our military being an effective deterrent to dictators who seek to expand their power at all costs.  I voted in support of today’s National Defense Authorization Act to support our military at a critical time in history and bolster our national security, deter destructive nations like China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea, and ensure America’s military remains the strongest in the world. 

“Today’s NDAA will bring significant investments to the major St. Louis-area programs to the tune of $4 billion, including $2.6 billion for the F-47 fighter jet, $460 million for MQ-25 Stingray refueling drone procurement, $400 million for F-18 modifications and sustainment, $372 million for F-15 procurement, and $187 million for JDAM procurement. 

“This bill also increases much-needed resources for our troops, including a pay raise for all service members and new barracks and family housing to support the family members who sacrifice when their spouse and parents are away fighting for our freedoms.  The NDAA also expands access to sexual assault forensic kits and programs to prevent and punish sexual misconduct. 

“This vote authorizes $2.7 billion to bolster our defense capabilities in the Indo-Pacific to prevent China from growing its already dangerously expansive influence.  We also fought to include important funding to support our greatest ally in the Middle East, Israel, in the form of $70 million in anti-drone initiatives and full funding for joint U.S.-Israel defense programs like the Iron Dome and David’s Sling.  And in another win for our area and the Bosnian-American community, I’m happy to say this bill codifies important sanctions to promote peace in the Western Balkans, language I have championed through my bill to protect Bosnia’s Dayton Peace Agreement.”

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Ann Wagner (R-MO-02)

Washington, D.C. – Today, the Incentivizing New Ventures and Economic Strength Through Capital Formation (INVEST) Act passed the U.S. House of Representatives by 302 to 123.  Led by Capital Markets Subcommittee Chairman Ann Wagner (R-MO), House Committee on Financial Services Chairman French Hill (R-AR), Rep. Gregory Meeks (D-NY), and Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ), the INVEST Act will cut red tape in Washington, empower entrepreneurs and small businesses, and provide Americans with the opportunity to more freely invest. 

Chair Wagner said, “I work every day to ensure that Americans across the nation, especially in our heartland, can better save for their future, build, and innovate.  As Chair of the Capital Markets Subcommittee, I have worked with all of my colleagues to craft vital policies that strengthen our markets so they can continue to be the strongest in the world and support Main Street investors who are saving for important goals like home ownership, a child’s education, or their own retirement.  The INVEST Act will supercharge our economy, provide stability for investors, and help small business owners grow and create jobs in communities around the nation.  For too long, capital has been concentrated largely in the coastal regions, leaving out critical regions like the great Midwest.  The INVEST Act will alleviate that imbalance and support growth in our neighborhoods in Missouri and beyond.  It will invest in our community, in our jobs, and in our future.  I thank my colleagues for their strong support of my legislation and look forward to the Senate quickly taking action.”

Chairman Hill said, “Today, we ensured the American Dream remains within reach for every family and community across our nation. I applaud the House’s passage of the INVEST Act, which will keep our economy the envy of the world and secure a brighter future for generations to come. Through this bipartisan package, we expanded access to investment capital for new and expanding businesses; provided new investment options for investors and retirement plans; and lowered the costs for companies seeking to go public. I commend Subcommittee Chair Ann Wagner for her tremendous work in leading this legislation that will benefit all Americans in a profound way and am eager for INVEST to be signed into law.”

Rep. Meeks said, “Across our country, hardworking families are invested in the stock market to build a future. These are the everyday Americans who rely on strong, fair, and accessible markets. Today, with the House’s passage of this bipartisan INVEST Act, we took a major step forward. This bill strengthens our markets, expands opportunities for small businesses, and gives millions of Americans a greater chance to grow their retirement savings and achieve real financial security. At a time when families feel the squeeze of rising costs, this legislation is an opportunity to strengthen the financial future of every American household. I look forward to the INVEST Act becoming law so we can see real progress in closing the financial wealth gap in this country.”

Rep. Gottheimer added, “The bipartisan INVEST Act takes vital steps to give Jersey small businesses and start-ups the resources they need to grow and thrive, which is becoming increasingly important as costs continue to surge. This bill also includes my bipartisan legislation, the Senior Security Act, to protect our vulnerable seniors from fraudsters who seek to take financial advantage of them. Millions of seniors across the country, including my own mother, have been the victims of financial scams, and this bipartisan legislation will help protect our seniors from having their hard-earned retirement savings stolen right out from under them.”

Click here for the Rules Committee Print of the INVEST Act.

Click here for a one-pager.

Click here for a section-by-section. 

Click here for a three-pager.

Click here to read Chairman Hill’s letter to the editor in the Wall Street Journal. 

Further Background on the Committee’s work on capital formation legislation:

• On December 2, 2025, the Full Committee introduced the INVEST Act.
• The Full Committee held markups on all legislation included in the INVEST Act in May, June, July, and September.
• On March 25, 2025, the Full Committee held a hearing entitled: Beyond Silicon Valley: Expanding Access to Capital Across America.
• On February 26, 2025, the Committee issued a request for feedback on legislative proposals to increase investor access and facilitate capital formation.
• On February 26, 2025, the Subcommittee on Capital Markets held a hearing entitled: The Future of American Capital: Strengthening Public and Private Markets by Increasing Investor Access and Facilitating Capital Formation.
• On April 19, 2023, the Subcommittee on Capital Markets held a hearing entitled: A Roadmap for Growth: Reforms to Encourage Capital Formation and Investment Opportunities for All Americans.
• On March 09, 2023, the Subcommittee on Capital Markets held a hearing entitled: U.S. Public Markets Built for the 21st Century: Exploring Reforms to Make Our Public Markets Attractive for Small and Emerging Companies Raising Capital.
• On February 08, 2023, the Subcommittee on Capital Markets held a hearing entitled: Sophistication or Discrimination? How the Accredited Investor Definition Unfairly Limits Investment Access for the Non-wealthy and the Need for Reform.
• On February 08, 2023, the Subcommittee on Capital Markets held a hearing entitled:  Empowering Entrepreneurs: Removing Barriers to Capital Access for Small Businesses.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Mike Quigley (IL-05)

U.S. Representative Mike Quigley (IL-05) released the following statement in honor of the start of Hanukkah this weekend, and issued a reminder to condemn antisemitism:

“This weekend, Jewish families across Chicago, the country, and the world, are celebrating Hanukkah. The Festival of Lights is a time for reflection and celebration – a time to find gratitude for life’s blessings. As we celebrate the resilience of the Jewish people, we must also recognize the struggles the community continues to face.

“Last year, anti-Jewish hate crimes rose almost 60 percent. Across the city, we have seen racist flyers, synagogue windows smashed, and schools defaced with hate symbols. Though three percent of Chicago’s residents are Jewish, the community makes up almost 40 percent of hate crime victims. The way to fight antisemitism and prejudice here at home is to identify it, speak out against it, and take action. We must work together to make sure every member of our community feels protected. That requires each of us to show up for our neighbors and reject attempts to divide us.

“I am committed to taking steps to fight antisemitism at the federal level. This includes by supporting the Holocaust Education and Antisemitism Lessons (HEAL) Act, which directs the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum to study and report on Holocaust education efforts and the Countering Antisemitism Act, which would take comprehensive action to combat antisemitism in America.

“The story of Hanukkah and the Jewish people is one of trial and triumph, throughout history and in the present day. I wish all of my Jewish friends a Chag Sameach!”

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE)

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE), Chairman of the Subcommittee on Trade, released the following statement after the House Ways and Means Committee reported three pieces of trade legislation on a bipartisan basis. 

“President Trump has rightly recognized the importance of trade as a tool for partnership, diplomacy, and economic development. Promoting stability through economic opportunity in Haiti and Sub-Saharan Africa provides opportunities for American consumers, creates new supply chains, and encourages those nations to look to the United States as a model for political and economic freedom, rather than to communist China. Likewise, empowering Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) with additional tools to address counterfeit products and protect American intellectual property is vital to advancing legal trade, now and into the future. 

“I appreciate the partnership of Chairman Jason Smith and bipartisan supporters across the committee in moving constructive trade legislation forward, and I look forward to continuing our work to see these bills through the legislative process.” 

BACKGROUND:  

The Ways and Means Committee advanced three pieces of trade legislation in today’s mark-up 

•  H.R. 6500, The AGOA Extension Act, introduced by full committee Chairman Jason Smith (R-MO), would provide a clean three-year extension of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). Smith is an original cosponsor of H.R. 6500, which was approved by committee 37-3
• H.R. 6504, the Haiti Economic Lift Program, introduced by Rep. Greg Murphy (R-NC), would provide a clean three-year extension of the HOPE and HELP for Haiti programs. Smith is an original cosponsor of H.R. 6504, which was approved by the committee 41-0
• H.R. 4930, A bill to expand sharing of information with respect to suspected violations of intellectual property rights in trade, introduced by Rep. Blake Moore (R-UT), would clarify existing law to ensure CBP can utilize packing materials and work with appropriate stakeholders to better counteract the attempted importation of goods violating U.S. copyright laws. Smith is a cosponsor of H.R. 4930, which was approved by the committee 40-0.

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

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, President Donald Trump will sign into law the Miracle on Ice Congressional Gold Medal Act, authored by Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08). The bipartisan legislation honors the 1980 United States Olympic Men’s Ice Hockey Team for their historic victory over the Soviet Union in the Winter Olympics. The signing ceremony will take place at the White House this afternoon, 3 PM EST, and will be attended by Rep. Stauber and several members of the 1980 U.S. Olympic hockey team.

The Congressional Gold Medal is the highest civilian honor bestowed by Congress, recognizing individuals or groups with profound, enduring impact on American history and culture. Stauber’s bill authorizes three medals: one for the U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame in Eveleth, Minnesota (in MN-08); one for the Lake Placid Olympic Center in Lake Placid, New York; and one for the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Museum in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

In order for a Congressional Gold Medal bill to move through Congress, the legislation must receive 290 cosponsors in the House and 67 in the Senate, of which the bill received 299 and 75 cosponsors, respectively. Congressman Stauber’s advocacy for the bill was built on personal ties to hockey and the Iron Range’s deep roots in the sport, rallying huge bipartisan support.

“As a hockey guy, it was a tremendous honor to author this bill, and I thank President Trump for recognizing this extraordinary team,” said Congressman Stauber. “The Miracle on Ice is the greatest sports victory in U.S. history. It continues to inspire our nation as it embodies the fighting spirit that helped win the Cold War. Coach Herb Brooks and his team deserve this honor, and I thank all who supported it.”

“Minnesota played a pivotal role in this victory, and it’s extra special that one medal will reside in our district,” Stauber added. “Once minted, I hope Midwest visitors flock to Eveleth to see it and that all Americans celebrate this triumph.”

STATEMENTS FROM PLAYERS ATTENDING THE SIGNING CEREMONY:

“Witnessing the signing of this bill at the White House is one of the greatest honors of my life. Our team’s legacy continues to inspire, and this recognition is a powerful reminder of what belief and unity can accomplish. It’s an honor to be here for this historic moment, and I’m grateful to Congressman Stauber for his leadership in making this recognition a reality. Our team never imagined anything like this, and we truly appreciate his dedication and support.” – Mike Eruzione, team captain

“This moment at the White House is deeply meaningful. Our team has carried the Miracle story with pride for 45 years, and seeing it honored at the highest level of our nation is incredibly special. I sincerely thank Congressman Stauber for championing this effort and honoring our team. His commitment to recognizing our story is something we truly appreciate.” – Jim Craig

“Being here at the White House for this signing is very meaningful to me. I’m grateful to be part of a team that continues to be remembered in this way. It’s meaningful to be in Washington for this moment, and I sincerely appreciate Congressman Stauber’s work in helping make this recognition possible. Our team is truly grateful.” – Phil Verchota

“Being at the White House for this historic moment is an incredible honor. Our team’s story has meant so much to so many, and to see it recognized in this way is truly humbling.” – Bill Baker

“It’s an unbelievable privilege to be in Washington to witness this bill being signed. What we accomplished in 1980 has lived on far beyond the rink, and this recognition means more than words can express.” – Neal Broten

“To stand alongside my teammates at the White House for the signing of the Congressional Gold Medal bill is an honor I’ll never forget. It’s a testament to the spirit of teamwork and belief that defined our journey. It’s a privilege to witness this moment, and I want to thank Congressman Stauber for all he did to help make it possible. Our team is grateful for his support and for the honor being given today.” – Dave Christian

“It’s a privilege to join my teammates in Washington to witness this historic moment. I’m grateful to be part of a team whose impact continues to resonate with people across the country.” – Steve Janaszak

“Being present at the White House for the Congressional Gold Medal signing is an extraordinary honor. Our team shared something truly unique in 1980, and this recognition brings that feeling back in a profound way.” – Rob McClanahan

“It’s incredibly humbling to be at the White House for such an important milestone. The Congressional Gold Medal is an honor that reflects not just a moment in sports, but a moment in American history.” – Ken Morrow

“To witness this bill being signed into law is truly special. Our team’s story continues to remind people of what’s possible when you believe in one another, and this recognition means the world.” – Jack O’Callahan

“I’m honored to be in Washington for the signing of this historic bill. The Miracle has touched generations, and this recognition is something our team will treasure forever.” – Mike Ramsey

“It’s a wonderful honor to be at the White House to witness this bill becoming law. Our team’s journey was unforgettable, and moments like this remind us of its lasting impact. I’m thankful to be part of this special day, and I want to express my appreciation to Congressman Stauber for helping bring this honor forward. It means a great deal to all of us who lived that experience together.” – Buzz Schneider

“Being part of this ceremony at the White House is incredibly meaningful. The recognition of our team’s place in history is something I’m proud to share with my teammates and with the country.” – Dave Silk

STATEMENTS FROM REPRESENTATIVES IN ATTENDANCE FOR DECEASED TEAM MEMBERS:

“It is an honor to stand on my father’s behalf at the White House. The Miracle team meant everything to him, and I know he would be deeply moved to see this recognition bestowed upon the teammates he cherished.” – Tarja Lewis, daughter of Mark Pavelich

“Representing my dad at the White House is incredibly special. He was so proud to be part of the 1980 team, and this moment reflects the legacy he carried with him throughout his life.” – Ryan Suter, son of Bob Suter

“It’s a privilege to honor Mark by being here today. The Miracle team was one of the greatest joys of his life, and this recognition is a powerful tribute to his memory and to the entire team.” – John Wells, brother of Mark Wells

“Being here on my father’s behalf is a profound honor. The Miracle team represented everything he believed in—hard work, belief, and the power of a unified team. This recognition is a beautiful acknowledgment of that legacy.” – Dan Brooks, son of Head Coach Herb Brooks

STATEMENTS FROM PLAYERS & STAFF WHO ARE NOT ATTENDING:

“Although I’m unable to be in Washington, I am deeply honored by this recognition. The Miracle team holds a special place in my heart, and the Congressional Gold Medal is a meaningful tribute to what we accomplished together.” – Steve Christoff

“I’m disappointed to miss the ceremony but I’m tremendously honored by the Congressional Gold Medal recognition. Our 1980 team shared something unforgettable, and this moment reflects the bond and belief that carried us all those years ago.” – John Harrington

“While I cannot attend the event, I am truly humbled by this extraordinary honor. The Miracle continues to inspire across generations, and being recognized with the Congressional Gold Medal is something I will forever cherish.” – Mark Johnson

“I’m honored by the Congressional Gold Medal recognition even though I won’t be at the signing ceremony. What our team achieved has lived far beyond 1980, and this honor is a wonderful acknowledgment of that legacy.” – Eric Strobel

“It is a great honor for our team to receive this recognition. Though I am unable to be in Washington, I am incredibly proud of what we accomplished together and grateful that the Miracle continues to be celebrated in such a meaningful way.” – Craig Patrick, assistant coach

Background:

On February 22, 1980, the U.S. Olympic Men’s Ice Hockey Team defeated the Soviet Union in Lake Placid, New York. This game is now known as the “Miracle on Ice.” The United States team was comprised of amateur college athletes, while the Soviet team featured some of the best players ever to play the game. Prior to this game, the Soviet Union had not lost an Olympic game since 1968. Eight years after this game, Congressman Stauber and the Lake Superior State University Division 1 hockey team won the National Championship at the same rink in Lake Placid, New York. For more information on the U.S Hockey Hall of Fame, visit https://www.ushockeyhall.com.

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

WASHINGTON, D.C. – This evening, Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) supported S. 356, the Secure Rural Schools Reauthorization Act of 2025, when it passed on the House Floor. The legislation, which is now headed to the President’s desk for signature, reauthorizes the Secure Rural Schools (SRS) program, ensuring critical funding reaches rural schools and communities across Minnesota’s Eighth District. Congressman Stauber issued the following statement regarding the passage of the bill:

“For over a century, the federal government has made a commitment to rural communities: to share the revenues generated from responsible natural resource development, like mining and timber harvesting, on National Forest System land,” said Congressman Stauber. “Unfortunately, thanks to our broken permitting system and endless lawsuits brought by activists seeking to lock up our public lands, this responsible development has declined in recent decades, and subsequently, the payments to our rural counties. The Secure Rural Schools program helps bridge the gap, and this reauthorization is a massive win for Northern Minnesota, ensuring that many of our rural counties continue to receive the resources they need to maintain roads, support our schools, and fund essential services. I was proud to champion this legislation to give our rural communities the certainty and stability they deserve, and I look forward to seeing it signed into law.”

Watch my full remarks here

Background on Secure Rural Schools (SRS):

The SRS program provides critical funding to rural schools and counties that house large areas of tax-exempt national forests and federal lands. Because these lands cannot be taxed locally, SRS delivers payments generated from leasing and resource management activities within the Forest Service back to the county governments where those forests are located.

Originally signed into law in 2000, the Secure Rural Schools and Community Self-Determination Act was created to stabilize payments to rural counties impacted by declining timber sales and federal revenue sharing that had existed since 1908. For years, rural communities in Minnesota’s Eighth District have utilized these funds to update and maintain school facilities, provide quality supplies for students, and invest in vital conservation and infrastructure projects.

The reauthorization will secure payments for counties across Minnesota, including Beltrami, Cass, Cook, Itasca, Koochiching, Lake, and St. Louis counties, protecting them from budget shortfalls caused by the fluctuating nature of federal land revenues. In 2024, the SRS program provided nearly $7 million in payments to counties across Minnesota’s Eighth Congressional District.

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