MIL USHOR-2b Engine

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

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Recently, Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) participated in the House Small Business Committee’s 3^rd Annual Small Business Showcase, held in the United States Capitol. At the invitation of Congressman Stauber, Bemidji Woolen Mills, an innovative small business from Minnesota’s 8^th Congressional District, was featured. 

Bemidji Woolen Mills is a retail store and clothing manufacturer in Bemidji, Minnesota. This iconic company was started by Ira Preston Betchelder in 1920 and is now headed up by his great grandson, Bill Batchelder. Over the century this company has been in business, it has become an iconic staple not only in the Bemidji community, but globally. During the 2012 election campaign, Bemidji Woolen Mills vests were named as TIME Magazine’s No. 15 Most Memorable Item, as presidential candidate Rick Santorum purchased 6,500 vests for his team. Other notables who have been seen wearing sweaters, vests or jackets that came from this business are South African President Nelson Mandela, comedian Billy Crystal, and actor John Goodman. 

Congressman Stauber stated, “Bemidji Woolen Mills embodies the resilience, craftsmanship, and community spirit that define America’s small businesses. It was an honor to invite them to the Small Business Showcase to celebrate their success and highlight exactly who the House Small Business Committee is fighting for here in Washington, D.C. As a former small business owner, I understand firsthand the challenges entrepreneurs face every day, which is why I am proud to have delivered meaningful victories for Main Street businesses through the passage of the Working Families Tax Cuts legislation. I will continue fighting to ensure small businesses like Bemidji Woolen Mills have the opportunity to grow, create jobs, and strengthen communities across our country.”

Of his visit, Bill Batchelder stated, “The employees of Bemidji Woolen Mills and the Batchelder family were humbled, blessed, and thankful to be part of the Small Business Showcase in Washington D.C. For 106 years, we have been afforded the opportunity by our great State of Minnesota to operate a family-owned small business in historic downtown Bemidji, Minnesota.

“Looking to the future, we are concerned with the barriers to entry for future entrepreneurs: rules, regulations, taxes, zoning, etc. We need to look no further than northern Minnesota to see the incredible family businesses that have been created and have added so much to their communities and our state. Small town America is where entrepreneurs can thrive the best. How many individuals’ dreams will come to fruition in basements, garages and backyards? Let’s make it happen for today’s generation.

“We measure success not by how much money you have at the end of the day, but by the positive impact you have in your community. Our wish is to mentor those in our community that have never experienced generational wealth and to make it happen, one person at a time. There are very few places in the world, like the United States of America, that still supports the American Dream and the entrepreneurial spirit. God bless America.”

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

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman David Valadao (CA-22) introduced the Tulare Youth Recreation and Women’s History Enhancement Act alongside Congressman Vince Fong (CA-20). This bill authorizes the sale of two parcels of lands from Union Pacific Railroad to Tulare County in order to restore the City Skate Park and historic Tulare Women’s Club. 

“For years, the Tulare Skate Park and the historic Tulare Women’s Club have been important community spaces, but outdated ownership restrictions have prevented the City from making long-overdue improvements,” said Congressman Valadao. “These parcels were originally set aside for railroad construction more than 150 years ago, and it’s past time to transfer ownership to the City so these facilities can be properly upgraded for future generations. I appreciate Union Pacific’s partnership in helping move this solution forward, and I look forward to seeing these sites continue to serve Tulare families and preserve the community’s history for years to come.”

“Tulare is a community with a proud history, strong values and a bright future, and I’m honored to support this legislation alongside my friend Congressman Valadao,” said Rep. Fong. “The Tulare Youth Recreation and Women’s History Enhancement Act invests in the people and places that make our community stronger by eliminating barriers so Tulare can celebrate its history and enrich the lives of residents for generations to come. It’s a win for our community and our history and I’m proud to support it.”

“The City of Tulare is immensely grateful for Congressman Valadao’s action to preserve two valued community assets and ensure they remain in local hands for generations to come. The Tulare Historic Women’s Clubhouse has long been a landmark that reflects our city’s history and civic identity, while the adjacent Rotary Skate Plaza serves as an important recreational space for Tulare’s youth and families. Bringing these properties under City ownership will allow us to protect, improve, and fully activate these sites for the benefit of our community. We appreciate the leadership of our Congressional delegation in advancing a practical, community-focused solution that recognizes the importance of the City’s commitment to historic preservation and our sense of community, ensuring these properties continue serving the people of Tulare as places of gathering, recreation, and community pride,” said Mayor Patrick Isherwood.

Background:

The Tulare Youth Recreation and Women’s History Enhancement Act, first introduced in the 116th Congress, would authorize the City of Tulare to acquire ownership of two parcels of land currently held by Union Pacific Railroad. Originally retained in 1866 for railroad construction, the parcels have remained subject to federal reversionary interests, limiting the City’s ability to improve and develop the sites. By authorizing the conveyance of the Tulare Railroad Proposed Parcels and relinquishing the United States’ reversionary interest, the legislation would enable the City to expand youth recreational opportunities and enhance efforts to commemorate women’s history in Tulare.

Read the full bill here.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Pete Aguilar (31 CD Ca)

Installing emergency generators will make San Bernardino’s infrastructure more resilient in the event of a power disruption

SAN BERNARDINO, CA – Rep. Pete Aguilar (CA-33) announced that he secured $1,145,144 in community project funding for the City of San Bernardino’s Emergency Hazard Mitigation Infrastructure Resiliency project. The grant funding will strengthen the City’s emergency power and water infrastructure and improve wildfire response by providing backup power generators and water booster pump stations and installing backup batteries for fifty traffic signals throughout the City, enabling them to continue operating during power disruptions.
The placement of emergency generators at the Verdemont and Meyers/Magnolia water booster pump stations will sustain water pressure if the primary power source is lost. This is particularly important for fighting wildfires, which can cut off the primary power source and otherwise put homes, businesses, and public infrastructure at risk. You can watch the full video of the press conference here.
“I’m proud to deliver more than $1 million for emergency water and infrastructure projects that will help reduce the impact of power outages and make it easier for first responders to do their job,” said Rep. Pete Aguilar. “The upgrades to these backup energy systems will reduce the disruptions residents and firefighters experience when we lose power, especially during disasters like worsening wildfires. I’ll keep working in Congress to deliver federal investments in our infrastructure to improve the quality of life for families here in the Inland Empire.”
“Today’s announcement is about preparedness, resilience, and protecting San Bernardino residents and businesses,” said Mayor Helen Tran, City of San Bernardino. “The funding from Congressman Aguilar helps us deliver safer streets, improved emergency response, and greater continuity during power outages and emergencies.”
“Ensuring reliable water service for the residents and businesses that depend on us every day is our highest priority,” said Toni Callicott, Board President, San Bernardino Municipal Water Department. “The funding from Congressman Aguilar’s efforts will strengthen the Water Department’s ability to maintain essential services during power outages and emergencies and help provide water when and where most needed.”
“The need for backup emergency power supply is expected to grow as severe fire and wind conditions become more frequent,” said Miguel Guerrero, General Manager, San Bernardino Municipal Water Department. “It is critical that water systems acquire onsite alternative power sources as part of contingency planning and these permanent generators funded through Congressman Aguilar’s advocacy will support water service continuity during emergency response operations, power outages, and natural disasters.”
As a Member of the House Appropriations Committee, Rep. Aguilar secured $19.7 million for 15 projects in California’s 33rd Congressional District in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026.

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

Washington, DC – Congresswoman Dina Titus (NV-01) reintroduced the Animal Violence Exposes Real Threat of (AVERT) Future Violence Act. This legislation is co-led by Representatives Vern Buchanan (R-FL) and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA). Companion legislation was introduced in the U.S. Senate by Senators Gary Peters (D-MI) and Thom Tillis (R-NC).

“Animal abusers have a significantly higher likelihood of committing acts of interpersonal violence,” said Congresswoman Titus. “Despite this, animal abuse continues to be treated as an isolated act rather than an indicator of violent behavior. By collecting data to study the link between animal and domestic abuse, we will be able to make informed legislative decisions that improve public safety, decrease incidents of domestic violence, and protect animals.”

“Not surprisingly, deranged individuals who abuse innocent animals are significantly more likely to go on to commit violence against people,” said Congressman Buchanan. “In fact, studies have shown that nearly 40 percent of known animal abusers commit crimes against humans as well. I’m pleased to lead efforts with Congresswoman Titus to study the troubling connection between domestic abusers and animal violence.”

“There is a clear connection between animal abuse and interpersonal violence, but more research is needed to help our communities effectively prevent and respond to red flags when we see them,” said Senator Peters. “This commonsense, bipartisan bill would improve our understanding of how a history of animal abuse can lead to future violence, while directing needed federal resources to the local partners who work to protect our communities each and every day.”

“Acts of animal cruelty are often a warning sign of future violence, and we should treat them with the seriousness they deserve,” said Senator Tillis. “This bipartisan legislation will help law enforcement, mental health professionals, and local communities better identify threats early, intervene effectively, and prevent future acts of violence before they happen.”

Background
The bipartisan Animal Violence Exposes Real Threat of (AVERT) Future Violence Act of 2026 would:

1. Commission a definitive study within the Department of Justice to assess the link between acts of animal cruelty and violence against others, developing effective interventions for offenders convicted of animal cruelty to prevent their future participation in domestic abuse.

2. Require that the National Institute of Justice to submit a report to Congress detailing the findings of the study and offering evidence-informed policy recommendations; and

3. Authorize a $2 million annual grant program to support mental health experts, law enforcement, and animal welfare organizations in their efforts to stop animal cruelty and rehabilitate offenders.

Individuals who commit animal abuse are far more likely to commit crimes than non-animal abusers. Studies show that 70% of convicted animal abusers have committed another crime, with nearly 40% having committed violent crimes against people. To better understand this link, the Federal Bureau of Investigation began collecting data in 2016 through the National Incident-Based Reporting System (NIBRS) specifically on animal abuse.

The AVERT Future Violence Act is endorsed by the Animal Welfare Institute, Humane World Action Fund, and Humane World for Animals.

Congresswoman Titus has been a lifelong advocate for animal protection, earning a 100% rating from the Humane World Action Fund on their 2025 Humane Scorecard. She has led efforts to stop government agencies from wasting taxpayer dollars on inhumane animal experiments and introduced legislation to ensure animals are rescued and cared for during emergencies and natural disasters.

The full bill text can be found HERE.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Rick Larsen (2nd Congressional District Washington)

Larsen Condemns San Diego Shooting at Mosque

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

Washington, DC – Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) today reintroduced a resolution in the U.S. House of Representatives honoring the 130th anniversary of the Jewish War Veterans of the United States of America during Jewish American Heritage Month.

Founded in 1896 by Jewish Civil War veterans responding to false claims that Jews had not served their country, the Jewish War Veterans is the nation’s oldest active veterans service organization. The resolution recognizes the organization’s role in defending the rights of veterans, preserving Jewish military history, supporting military families, and confronting antisemitism for more than a century.

Pallone introduced the resolution as new data from the Anti-Defamation League found assaults against Jewish Americans reached their highest level in more than four decades in 2025, with antisemitic incidents remaining near record highs nationwide. Northern New Jersey was identified as one of the country’s major hotspots for antisemitic activity.

“At a time when Jewish Americans are facing a deeply troubling rise in violence and harassment, it is critical to recognize organizations that have spent generations standing up to hate and defending the truth,” Pallone said. “For 130 years, the Jewish War Veterans have served this country with distinction while preserving the legacy of Jewish servicemembers and advocating for veterans and military families. Their history is a powerful reminder that fighting bigotry and defending democracy go hand in hand.”

“Founded in 1896, JWV is the longest-serving veterans service organization dedicated to combating the antisemitic claim that Jews did not serve in the military,” said National Commander Scott P. Stevens. “Sixty-three Civil War veterans met for the first time at the Lexington Avenue Opera House to proclaim their proud military service as Jewish Americans. JWV led a protest march in the streets of New York in 1933, calling for a boycott of German goods and drawing international attention to the threat posed by Nazi Germany.” Stevens noted that “Jews served from before the Revolutionary War to the present, with 19 Jewish servicemen receiving the Congressional Medal of Honor. JWV led the effort to advocate for and secure the MOH for William Shemin. (WWI) in 2015 and Tibor Rubin (KOR) in 2005. Now, as always, JWV will continue to fight for the benefits and services earned by all veterans and to combat all forms of bigotry, hatred, and discrimination, including antisemitism.”

The resolution also highlights the organization’s leadership in protesting Nazi Germany in the 1930s, supporting Holocaust education, helping establish the National Museum of American Jewish Military History, and continuing to advocate for equality and veterans’ rights.

The resolution affirms Congress’ support for the organization’s mission to preserve history, promote justice, and combat antisemitism in all its forms.

Read Pallone’s full resolution here.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Dan Newhouse (4th District of Washington)

Headline: Newhouse Statement on Passing of Davis "Yellowash" Washines

Press Release 
For Immediate Release: May 16, 2026
Contact: Juan Ayala, (202) 713-7750

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (WA-04) released the following statement regarding the passing of Yakama Nation elder, Davis “Yellowash” Washines. 

“I am saddened to hear of the passing of the esteemed elder, Davis Washines, known to many as Yellowash, of the Yakama Nation,” said Rep. Newhouse. “He was a fierce advocate for tribal rights and it was an honor working with him as he fought for many causes. My condolences are with his family, loved ones, and the Confederated Tribes and Bands of the Yakama Nation.” 

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

U.S. Representatives Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) and Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01) raised concerns after the Trump administration announced it was rolling back drinking water protections for toxic forever chemicals known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). The policy being targeted required water systems to filter out a certain limit of the toxic substances by a 2029 deadline. The administration has proposed eliminating limits for four of the most dangerous forever chemicals and allowing corporations to delay the removal of two other chemicals by two years which means communities could be left drinking contaminated water for longer. 

“PFAS contamination is a real and urgent public health crisis across our country, and this rollback only serves to undermine the core purpose of SDWA to ensure communities have access to safe drinking water. Nearly 98% of Americans have PFAS detectable in their blood, and as of March 2026, about 176 million Americans drink water contaminated with PFAS. Rolling back drinking water standards for PFAS will further the existing public health crisis our communities are already facing due to these forever chemicals,” the lawmakers wrote. 

In a new bipartisan effort, the lawmakers are raising their concerns directly with the Trump Administration and strongly encouraged the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to reconsider this dangerous rollback of safe drinking water standards.

Representatives Dingell and Fitzpatrick are co-chairs of the Congressional PFAS Task Force. In June 2025, the lawmakers introduced bipartisan legislation to put these safe drinking water regulations into law. In July 2025, the lawmakers led 69 of their colleagues in urging the EPA to uphold the first-ever national primary drinking water regulation for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).

A copy of the letter can be found HERE and text is below:

Dear Administrator Zeldin:

We write to express concerns surrounding the Agency’s decision related to the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) rule. While we applaud efforts by the Administration to invest nearly $1 billion dollars in new funding to states to address PFAS in drinking water, potential for erosion of the SDWA must be taken seriously.

PFAS contamination is a real and urgent public health crisis across our country, and this rollback only serves to undermine the core purpose of SDWA to ensure communities have access to safe drinking water. Nearly 98% of Americans have PFAS detectable in their blood, and as of March 2026, about 176 million Americans drink water contaminated with PFAS. Rolling back drinking water standards for PFAS will further the existing public health crisis our communities are already facing due to these forever chemicals.

The finalized 2024 rule established an enforceable maximum contaminant level (MCL) standard of four parts per trillion for two of the most dangerous PFAS variants, PFOS and PFOA. It also regulated other times of PFAS, PFNA, PFHxS, PFBS, and GenX with an enforceable MCL standard of ten parts per trillion. It required that public water systems monitor for PFAS, notify the public of PFAS, and reduce PFAS in drinking water through phased-in approaches.

EPA finalized its 2024 rulemaking in response to its own extensive scientific research that reflected the correlation of PFAS to high cholesterol, kidney cancer, decreases in birth weight, and other serious health risks. When issued, the EPA estimated that this rule would prevent PFAS exposure in drinking water for as many as 100 million Americans, prevent thousands of deaths, and reduce tens of thousands of serious PFAS-attributable illnesses. The finalization of the 2024 rule was an important step in the fight to keep forever chemicals out of our homes and communities and rescinding this standard means harmful PFAS contamination will continue to spread through drinking water.

Safe drinking water should never be a luxury or a legal debate. For families facing PFAS contamination, this is about the water they pour into a glass, cook with, and give to their children. America should be moving faster to get PFAS out of our drinking water—not giving families more years of uncertainty and harm. We will not stand by while protections are weakened and working families are left waiting. We will continue fighting to protect clean water, hold polluters accountable, and put public health ahead of the interests that created this crisis.

We encourage EPA to reconsider the dangerous rollback of its 2024 PFAS National Drinking Water Standard.

Thank you for your attention to this matter and we look forward to your response

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

U.S. Representatives Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) and Bill Huizenga (R-MI-04), co-chairs of the Congressional Great Lakes Task Force, requested Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney to confirm Canada has completed its commitment to transfer oversight and funding responsibilities for the Great Lakes Fishery Commission (GLFC) from the Department of Fisheries and Oceans to Global Affairs Canada. The change would align Canada’s approach with the United States and strengthen binational stewardship of the Great Lakes fisheries under the Convention on Great Lakes Fisheries of 1954. The representatives value the long and lasting relationship between the United States and Canada and will continue working to strengthen the bonds tying the two nations together. 

A copy of the letter can be found HERE and text is below:

Dear Prime Minister Carney,

We are writing to follow up on a letter we sent to your predecessor on June 6, 2023. This letter brought attention to a matter of concern regarding the implementation of the Convention on Great Lakes Fisheries of 1954, the bilateral treaty that governs the approach to Great Lakes fishery management between the United States and Canada.

Since 1954, the Great Lakes Fishery Commission (GLFC) has been instrumental in addressing shared, binational issues related to the fishery between our two nations, including controlling the invasive, destructive sea lamprey that threaten these shared waters. Thanks to the Commission’s tireless work, native species have recovered and our world-class recreational fishery has rebounded along with a mass of new scientific research and information. The Commission has united our two nations for our mutual benefit, and for the benefit of future generations of Canadians and Americans. 

On May 1, 2023, the House of Commons Standing Committee on Fisheries and Oceans adopted a motion to study the manner and mechanism in which the GLFC interfaces with the Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO). After hearing from witnesses, the Committee found, “…that a conflict of interest exists and that the machinery of government function for the GLFC should be transitioned from DFO to Global Affairs Canada (GAC).” This finding was later supported by the House of Commons Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs, by the Senate of Canada’s Standing Committee on Fisheries and Oceans Committee, and by several MPs and Canadian Senators.

On September 10, 2024, Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs advised the Commission, in writing (and later verbally), that the Commission’s machinery of government would be transitioned from DFO to GAC. That commitment was also communicated to numerous Members of Congress, and to Members of your own Parliament when, on November 10, 2024, GAC representative Niall Cronin publicly informed the Senate Fisheries Committee that, “…the $19.6 million annual contribution that was part of DFO’s budget will come to Global Affairs…” These are positive developments for which Canada should be commended. The purpose of this letter is simply to confirm that these commitments fully and entirely transfer the Commission’s machinery of government functions and budget from DFO to GAC.

As co-chairs of the bipartisan Great Lakes Task Force and as close allies and partners in the stewardship of these shared waters, we respectfully bring this matter to your attention. Stakeholders including the Great Lakes Fishery Commission, more than 80 Members of your Parliament, and many U.S. legislators, support this important change for GAC to fully assume all machinery of government functions and budget appropriations for the Great Lakes Fishery Commission from DFO, aligning Canada’s organizational approach with that of the United States.

Thank you for your attention to this important binational matter. We look forward to your confirmation that these commitments have been completed.

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

U.S. Representatives Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) and Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY-11) introduced the bipartisan End Government Pension for Sexual Abusers Act, which would revoke federal retirement benefits for current or former Members of Congress convicted of serious sexual offenses, including sexual assault, rape, child sex trafficking, sexual exploitation of minors, and related crimes. 

“Public service is a privilege, and anyone convicted of these horrific crimes should not receive taxpayer-funded pensions. Congress must hold itself to the same standards of accountability we expect everywhere else. Congresswoman Malliotakis and I will keep working to ensure survivors get the justice they deserve,” said Congresswoman Dingell. 

“Members of Congress are elected to serve the public and must be held to the highest standard,” said Congresswoman Malliotakis. “Anyone convicted of sexual abuse, exploitation, or trafficking should not be rewarded with a taxpayer-funded pension. I join Rep. Debbie Dingell in this bipartisan effort to ensure those benefits are stripped from convicted offenders and make sure they go to the victims who deserve justice.”

In recent months, multiple Members of Congress have resigned following serious allegations of sexual misconduct and abuse. Taxpayers should not be forced to fund retirement benefits for elected officials who are convicted of these horrific crimes. Public service is a privilege, not an entitlement and Members of Congress are entrusted with serving the public and must hold themselves to the highest ethical and moral standards. Those who commit acts of sexual abuse, exploitation, or trafficking should not continue receiving federal taxpayer-funded benefits.

The End Government Pension for Sexual Abusers Act would deny federal retirement benefits to Members of Congress or former members convicted of sexual offenses, including:

• Transfer or production of obscene material to minors.

• Sex trafficking of children.

• Sexual abuse, including sexual assault or rape. 

• Sexual abuse or exploitation of a minor.

• Sexual abuse resulting in death.

The legislation also applies to current or former Members convicted of similar crimes in foreign countries, holding them to the same standard. Any pension benefits stripped from convicted offenders would instead be awarded to the victims, helping provide support and justice to those harmed.