MIL USHOR-2b Engine

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Don Beyer (D-VA)

Congressman Don Beyer (D-VA), Congressman Don Bacon (R-NE), and Congresswoman Andrea Salinas (D-OR) today welcomed Congressman Mike Kelly (R-PA) as a new Co-Chair of the Congressional Mental Health Caucus. 

“As more Americans recognize the importance of addressing and supporting mental health, Congress must continue to address these critical issues as well. That’s why I’m proud to join my colleagues, Reps. Don Beyer, Don Bacon, and Andrea Salinas as Mental Health Caucus co-chair. Mental health isn’t a partisan issue,” said Rep. Kelly.

“I’m thrilled to welcome Congressman Mike Kelly as Co-Chair of the Mental Health Caucus. Mike has been a strong bipartisan partner on efforts to support youth mental health and expand investment in mental health research,” said Rep. Beyer. “His leadership will strengthen our work, and I look forward to continuing our partnership to advance meaningful legislation to build a stronger, more accessible system of care to tackle the mental health crisis.”

“We know our country faces a mental health crisis, and that means we must keep working together toward solutions,” said Rep. Bacon. “I’m pleased to welcome Rep. Kelly as a Co-Chair of the Mental Health Caucus as we continue advancing bipartisan efforts to improve care.”

“I am excited to welcome Congressman Mike Kelly as a fellow co-chair of the Mental Health Caucus. Congressman Kelly has worked across the aisle to ensure Americans can access the treatment they need,” said Rep. Salinas.  “I look forward to working alongside him to strengthen bipartisan legislation to ensure every person can access high-quality, affordable mental healthcare.”

Kelly has worked on bipartisan efforts focused on youth mental health and mental health research. Together with Congressman Beyer, he co-leads the Peer-to-Peer Mental Health Support Act, which would help schools establish student-led peer support programs to identify and respond to youth mental health challenges. Kelly also leads the Mental Health Research Accelerator Act to encourage public-private partnerships and expand investment in mental health and neurological research.

Beyer is a Co-Chair of the Mental Health Caucus’ Suicide Prevention Task Force and author of the bipartisan Barriers to Suicide Act, which would require the Department of Transportation to establish grants to help state and local governments fund nets and barriers that have been shown to reduce suicide on bridges and other high-risk infrastructure. Beyer also leads an annual appropriations letter on bipartisan suicide prevention programs, which supports funding for 988, and suicide prevention programs at the CDC and SAMHSA.

Bacon leads mental health initiatives focused on crisis response and veterans’ mental health, including the STOP Suicide Act to expand federal support for services for individuals in crisis and recovery. He also introduced the Improving Mental Health Support for Servicemembers and Veterans Act, which would improve coordination of mental health programs for veterans and transitioning servicemembers.

Salinas has introduced several bills to improve access to mental health care, including the HOPE and Mental Wellbeing Act, which would provide three free behavioral health visits per year for Medicare and Medicaid recipients, as well as the Home-Based Telemental Health Care Act, which would expand access to telehealth services for rural Americans who continue to face barriers to in-person mental health care. She is also a co-founder of the bipartisan Rural Health Caucus that seeks to address health care gaps in rural communities, especially related to mental health care.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Riley Moore (WV-02)

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Riley M. Moore presented a $1,668,750 check in federal funding for the construction of a new Barbour County Ambulance Authority Station, a major investment in emergency response infrastructure and public safety for North Central West Virginia. Congressman Moore secured this funding through his work on the House Appropriations Committee.

The new facility will strengthen emergency medical response capabilities across Barbour County, provide expanded space for public safety and emergency response training programs, and serve as an emergency shelter and distribution site during natural disasters and other emergencies.

The project represents a long-term investment in the region’s emergency preparedness capabilities and will help ensure first responders have modern facilities to effectively serve residents throughout Barbour County and the surrounding area.

Congressman Riley M. Moore released the following statement:

“Barbour County’s first responders put their lives on the line every day to protect our communities, and they deserve facilities and resources that match the importance of their mission. This new ambulance authority station will improve emergency response times, expand training opportunities for first responders, and ensure the community has a first-class emergency shelter and distribution center during natural disasters. I was proud to secure these funds through my position on the House Appropriations Committee. They will strengthen public safety infrastructure and keep West Virginians safe.”

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Riley Moore (WV-02)

Washington, D.C. – On March 17, 2026, the Taylor County Public Service District reached a major milestone as water flowed through a newly constructed temporary water main to the PSD’s treatment plant for the first time since May 2022. This temporary water main is a much-needed work around after the raw water main suffered catastrophic breaks that left the pipeline transporting water to the treatment plant inoperable.

The original breaks forced the PSD to rely on costly emergency pumps to maintain water service, placing a severe financial strain on the district and threatening its long-term viability. Following years of regulatory delays and stalled progress, Congressman Riley M. Moore worked directly with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and local stakeholders to help broker an agreement that moved the project forward.

A key turning point came on July 24, 2025, when representatives from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Taylor County PSD, the Taylor County Commission, and the City of Grafton met at Congressman Moore’s Morgantown office to negotiate a preliminary agreement. That meeting ultimately led to the Memorandum of Understanding that cleared the way for construction of the emergency waterline.

The emergency waterline is expected to provide critical stability for the PSD while long-term infrastructure solutions continue to be evaluated and developed.

Congressman Riley M. Moore released the following statement:

“After years of delays and uncertainty, I’m proud we were able to bring everyone to the table to get this project moving. The people of Taylor County deserve reliable access to clean water, and this emergency line ensures the PSD can continue serving residents without the crushing financial burden caused by temporary pumping operations. I appreciate the Army Corps of Engineers, Taylor County PSD, the Taylor County Commission, and the City of Grafton for working together to get the job done.”

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

With games 36 days away, New Jersey lawmakers cite soaring prices, misleading seat maps, and deceptive sales tactics

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Hakeem Jeffries (8th District of New York)

Today, Office of the Democratic Leader spokesperson Christie Stephenson released the following statement: 

“Jen Kiggans had her chance to disavow the vile, racist and dehumanizing comments from far-right talk show host Rich Herrera. Instead, she doubled down. Then, Jen Kiggans tripled down and attempted to blame partisanship in a pathetic follow-up statement. It was a stunning failure of judgment and leadership for a so-called moderate Member of Congress representing a large, vibrant African American community in Virginia.

Extremists who endorse disgusting, vile and racist language are pathetic. Jen Kiggans has no interest in our nation’s progress toward a multi-racial democracy and apparently craves a return to the days of Jim Crow racial oppression in the South. That’s why MAGA Republicans in legislatures and courts across America have launched a full-scale assault on Black representation. 

Jen Kiggans pretends to be a centrist, but even a cursory analysis of her record makes clear that she is a phony. The Congresswoman enthusiastically supports Donald Trump’s One Big Ugly Bill, harmful tariffs and skyrocketing gas prices. 

Thanks to Jen Kiggans, life is more expensive for the people of Virginia, healthcare is being ripped away, hospitals are closing, veterans benefits are being cut and children are going hungry. The voters of Virginia will hold her accountable at the ballot box in November.”

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sharice Davids (KS-3)

Today, Representatives Sharice Davids (D-KS-03), Don Bacon (R-NE-02), and Teresa Leger Fernández (D-NM-03) and Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-NM) introduced the bipartisanRespect Tribal IDs Act to improve how Department of Homeland Security (DHS) personnel recognize and interact with tribal identification documents during immigration enforcement. The legislation comes amid growing reports of Native Americans being questioned, delayed, or detained after federal officers failed to recognize valid tribal IDs and documentation as proof of citizenship. 

“Tribal sovereignty is a legal and constitutional recognition of Tribal Nations and their citizens, and the federal government has a responsibility to respect that,” said Davids. “But lately, we’ve seen troubling reports of Native Americans being questioned or detained because federal officers lacked the training needed to recognize tribal documentation or understand Tribal Nation citizenship. This bipartisan bill is about preventing those failures, improving training and accountability, and making sure all people are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.”

The Respect Tribal IDs Act would require DHS, in coordination with the Bureau of Indian Affairs and Tribal Nations, to develop standardized training for officers and employees involved in immigration enforcement. The training would include how to identify tribal documents, when tribal IDs qualify as proof of U.S. citizenship, proper protocols for interacting with enrolled tribal members, and the federal government’s trust responsibility to Tribal Nations. 

The bill also requires DHS to create region-specific guidance and reference materials for officers, including examples of tribal IDs used by federally recognized tribes in areas where agents operate. Officers would be required to complete the training annually and whenever they are reassigned to a new region. 

“The Respect Tribal IDs Act is a commonsense bill to ensure DHS personnel are properly trained to recognize Tribal IDs and work respectfully with Tribal communities,” said Representative Don Bacon (R-NE-02). “Federal agencies have a responsibility to protect and support Tribal citizens, and this legislation helps ensure they do that.”

“We’ve seen Trump’s Department of Homeland Security violate the rights of the first Americans countless times. Indigenous people in New Mexico and across the country have been unfairly questioned, harassed, and detained. This bill will require that DHS officers be trained to recognize Tribal IDs and prevent wrongful detentions,” said Representative Teresa Leger Fernández (D-NM-03), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Indian and Insular Affairs. “All law enforcement officials must respect tribal governments and the documents they provide their citizens. ICE and CBP agents must follow the law  and respect tribal sovereignty.”  

“In New Mexico and across the country, our Tribal brothers and sisters deserve to be treated with dignity and respect,” said Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), member of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs. “Under the Trump Administration, we’ve seen disturbing incidents where Tribal members were stopped, questioned, and harassed by ICE officers simply because of their appearance or because officers failed to recognize their Tribal IDs. That is unacceptable and deeply wrong. To address these failures, my legislation would establish clear standards and ensure DHS officers are properly trained to recognize and accept Tribal IDs. No one should have to fear being harassed because of a failure in training or accountability.”

The legislation follows multiple high-profile incidents and reports involving Native Americans whose tribal documentation was reportedly rejected or questioned during federal enforcement encounters. Tribal leaders and advocates have raised concerns that inconsistent training and lack of familiarity with tribal IDs have contributed to wrongful stops and confusion involving U.S. citizens, particularly in border states and regions with large Native populations. The legislation seeks to establish clearer standards and prevent future incidents by ensuring federal personnel are properly trained before conducting enforcement activities.

“The National Congress of American Indians supports this legislation to ensure that federal agents within the U.S. Department of Homeland Security are properly trained to recognize and respect Tribal identification documents,” said Larry Wright, Executive Director, National Congress of American Indians (NCAI). “Too often, the lack of consistent training has led to confusion, delays, and the improper treatment of Tribal citizens. By requiring comprehensive training on Tribal IDs, this bill affirms the validity of Tribal governments and strengthens the federal trust responsibility. NCAI urges its passage to promote respectful interactions, enhance security, and uphold the rights of Tribal citizens.”

“We’ve seen federal immigration agents reject valid Tribal IDs and question the citizenship of Native people — something that should never happen,” said John E. Echohawk, Executive Director, Native American Rights Fund. “Tribal IDs are official documents issued by sovereign Tribal Nations and must be recognized as such. The Respect Tribal IDs Act provides a common-sense, bipartisan fix by ensuring agents are properly trained to identify and accept these documents and understand the federal trust responsibility. We strongly support Sharice Davids’ leadership on this issue, alongside the National Congress of American Indians. This bill will help prevent unlawful detentions and protect Native citizens.”

Davids is a member of the Ho-Chunk Nation of Wisconsin and one of the first two Native women ever elected to Congress. As co-chair of the Congressional Native American Caucus, she is dedicated to strengthening Tribal sovereignty, improving the federal government’s relationship with Tribal Nations, and advancing policies that support Native communities across the country.

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

Rep. Aguilar is working to pass legislation to better protect victims of mail theft and strengthen protections for mail carriers 

REDLANDS, CA – Today, Rep. Pete Aguilar (CA-33) held a press conference in front of the Redlands Post Office to highlight his efforts to combat mailbox theft and vandalism, protect mail carriers and improve public safety in the Inland Empire.
As a member of the House Appropriations Committee, Rep. Aguilar secured changes to the Fiscal Year (FY) 2027 Financial Services and General Government funding (FSGG) bill, urging the United States Postal Service (USPS) to respond to mailbox theft and vandalism more quickly and strengthen protections for consumers. Passing through committee with bipartisan support, these changes urge USPS to notify victims of mail theft sooner so they can take immediate steps to protect their finances and personal information. 
Additionally, as a co-sponsor of the bipartisan Protect Our Letter Carriers Act, Rep. Aguilar is working to strengthen protections for postal workers so they can do their jobs without fear of robbery or assault while delivering mail. You can watch the full video of the press conference here.
“Whether you live in an apartment building or a house, people in the Inland Empire deserve to receive their letters and packages safely and on time,” said Rep. Pete Aguilar. “I’ve heard from countless constituents, law enforcement and mail carriers about their frustrations with mail theft and the risks it poses to our community. That’s why I pushed for bipartisan changes in a recent funding bill to urge the Postal Service to respond faster to these problems and why I’m proud to support legislation to make it safer for mail carriers to do their jobs. I’ll keep fighting for these policies until they become law so everyone in our region can send, receive and deliver mail securely and without delay.” 
“Residents can help prevent theft by retrieving mail daily and as soon as possible after delivery, since mail left unattended creates greater opportunities for theft,” said Chief Rachel Tolber, Redlands Police Department. “If you are traveling or away from home, consider placing a temporary mail hold through the United States Postal Service so your mail can be securely held until your return. And if you become the victim of mail theft, report it to your local police department as soon as possible. Timely reporting helps law enforcement identify patterns, connect related crimes, investigate and alert the community when necessary. Preventing mail theft requires a strong partnership between local police, the United States Postal Service, legislators, and the community. Awareness, prevention, and timely reporting remain some of the most effective tools we have to combat these crimes.”
“NALC appreciates Rep. Aguilar for bringing letter carriers’ voice to this important event,” said Brian L. Renfroe, President, National Association of Letter Carriers (NALC). “Mail security starts with protecting the dedicated, hardworking letter carriers who deliver it. We appreciate the congressman’s support of the Protect Our Letter Carriers Act (H.R. 1065), and we look forward to working with Congress on ways to protect letter carriers and America’s mail.”

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Salud Carbajal (CA-24)

Today, U.S. Representative Salud Carbajal (D-CA-24) issued the statement below following the fire on Platform Habitat.

“I want to thank the U.S. Coast Guard, Santa Barbara Harbor Patrol, Santa Barbara City Fire Department, and the Santa Barbara and Ventura County Fire Departments for safely evacuating the crew and extinguishing the fire on Platform Habitat. While we await a full investigation into the cause of the fire and any potential environmental impacts, today’s incident serves as a sobering reminder of the inherent risks that offshore drilling poses to our coast. Our community shouldn’t have to gamble with our environment, economy, and public health just to pad the pockets of Big Oil. I will continue to fight any plans to expand offshore drilling in our region, and advocate for alternative energy sources like wind and solar. These alternative energy sources are safer, reduce our dependence on volatile global oil markets, and lower energy costs for families.”

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

Santa Rosa, CA – This week, Rep. Mike Thompson (CA-04) presented a $250,000 check to the Sonoma County Community Development Commission to build a playground at the Tierra de Rosas Public Plaza in Roseland. This park is part of an affordable housing development under construction.  

“Proud to have secured $250,000 for the Tierra de Rosas Public Plaza playground,” said Thompson. “This funding will help provide a public space for local parents and kids to enjoy. Everyone deserves access to beautiful public spaces to come together as a community. Thank you to our local leaders who helped identify the need for this funding.”

“The contribution provided by Congressman Thompson helps create a neighborhood park that will be enjoyed by Roseland residents for decades to come,” said Supervisor Chris Coursey.

The funding will go to the Sonoma County Community Development Commission for the Tierra de Rosas Public Plaza Park Furnishings and Equipment. This is a final piece of the Tierra de Rosas Public Infrastructure Improvements Project to prepare for construction of a mixed-use development on a largely vacant shopping center property situated in the heart of Santa Rosa’s Roseland neighborhood.

The funding for this project is part of the $14,351,487 secured this year by Thompson for community projects in our district.

Each year, Members of Congress may direct federal funding to a limited number of community projects through the appropriations process. Under this program, each House member may submit a limited number of requests on behalf of their district for competitive review by the House Appropriations Committee. Projects selected for funding must meet strict transparency and accountability requirements before being included in federal appropriations legislation.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Ted Lieu (33 District of California)

WASHINGTON – Last Thursday, Congressman Ted W. Lieu (D-Los Angeles County) hosted his congressional district’s twelfth-annual reception for the Congressional Art Competition at the Otis College of Art and Design.

Students from 16 different high schools submitted 135 pieces of art for this year’s competition. These submissions included 35 photographs, 38 paintings, 48 drawings, 9 mixed-media pieces, and 5 other pieces that included computer-generated art. The winner, Hugh Saetia from Mira Costa High School, submitted a piece called “Denial.” 

The Congressional Art Competition is open to all high school students who reside in California’s 36th District. The first-place winner’s art will be displayed for one year in the U.S. Capitol along with winners from Congressional districts across the country. The winner will receive a trip to Washington D.C. in June to be recognized at an awards ceremony. The second and third place winners will have their art displayed for one year in the Congressman’s D.C. and District offices.  All winners received scholarships. All student participants received certificates and swag bags.

“Each year I am blown away by the creativity displayed in the students’ artwork. This year was no exception.” Rep. Lieu said. “I am always excited to see the great talent of the students in our community. As I work in D.C. to represent the values and priorities of our district, it inspires me to see a piece of home hanging proudly in the halls of Congress. I look forward to seeing Hugh’s artwork take the place of representing our community.”

Below are the results of the 2026 Congressional Art Competition:

Overall Winners:

• 1st Place: Hugh Saetia, “Denial” | Grade 11, Mira Costa High School
• 2nd Place: Ayla Dowdell, “Weaving of Cultures” | Grade 10, Redondo Union High School
• 3rd Place: Elizabeth Le, “A Child’s Mind” | Grade 12, West High School

Honorable Mentions:

• Photography: Natalie Soliman, “American Dream” | Grade 12, Palos Verdes High School
• Painting: Trevor Huo, “Summer Day” | Grade 11, Mira Costa High School
• Drawing: Eli Kano, “Seen” | Grade 11, Redondo Union High School
• Mixed Media: Coralie Foucher, “Quilted” | Grade 10, Santa Monica High School
• Other: Keegan Zarefsky, “Presidents Cup” | Grade 12, Redondo Union High School
• Member’s Choice: Jasmine De Baris, “Farewell” | Grade 12, Venice High School