MIL USHOR-2b Engine

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Donald Norcross (1st District of New Jersey)

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Representatives Donald Norcross (D-NJ) and Don Bacon (R-NE) reintroduced the Save Our Ships Act to help preserve historic U.S. Navy and Coast Guard ships and submarines to display in museums and memorials.

Ship museums across the country provide educational programs to over half a million youth and support over 2,000 enlistments, retirements, and commissioning ceremonies every year, all while contributing $1 billion annually to the economy. However, many historic naval ships don’t get the opportunity to be put on display due to the challenges of physical preservation and maintenance.

The Save Our Ships Act addresses this problem by creating the Historic Naval Ship Preservation Grant Program, which would provide funding for physical upkeep and educational programs for these ships and submarines.

“I’m proud to introduce the Save Our Ships Act to make it easier to preserve our historic naval ships and submarines, like the Battleship New Jersey in Camden City,” said Congressman Donald Norcross. “The educational opportunities that come from preserving these historic vessels are priceless. We must ensure students and families can learn about the rich history of our Navy and Coast Guard and inspire the next generation of shipbuilders and servicemembers.”    

“Omaha’s Freedom Park is home to the USS Marlin SST-2 and the USS Hazard AM-240, a minesweeper and submarine, which have both undergone major restoration work over the years due to flooding in 2011, 2015 and 2019,” said Congressman Don Bacon. “But a dedicated group of volunteers work tirelessly to keep these and other items at the park in pristine condition so that visitors can get a taste of living history. I’m thrilled to join Rep. Norcross on this legislation that will create a competitive grant program to help museums that house these treasures perform some of the needed maintenance.”

“The Battleship New Jersey — the most decorated battleship in the 250-year history of the United States Navy — is proud to stand in full support of the bipartisan Save Our Ships Act,” said Marshall Spevak, Chief Executive Officer of the Battleship New Jersey Museum & Memorial on the Camden Waterfront. “No museum ship in America is federally owned; we’re all nonprofit organizations facing the same challenges as other museums — only our work is even more costly. Congressman Norcross, one of our longest and most dedicated advocates, understands that, and we’re deeply grateful to him and the bill’s co-sponsors for their commitment to preserving our nation’s military and maritime history.”

The members were joined by Representatives Troy Carter (D-LA), Jimmy Panetta (D-CA), Tim Kennedy (D-NY), Nanette Barragán (D-CA), Brendan Boyle (D-PA), and Bennie Thompson (D-MS) in introducing the bill.

Read the one-pager here.

Read the full bill text here. 

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Chris Pappas (D-NH)

Yesterday Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01), a member of the House Veterans’ Affairs Committee, and Congressman Ryan Mackenzie (PA-07) introduced the Improving Veteran Access to Care Act. This bipartisan legislation will improve the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) appointment scheduling process to ensure veterans can more easily schedule and manage their medical care, including primary care, mental health services, and specialty appointments.

Currently, veterans often have to coordinate appointments across multiple VA clinics and services, which can require several phone calls and separate scheduling steps. The Improving Veterans Access to Care Act directs the VA to create a plan to streamline scheduling systems, improve online self-service platforms, and ensure veterans can schedule appointments through a phone call if they choose. The bill also requires VA to report progress and implement system improvements on a clear timeline.

“For veterans trying to make health care appointments at VA, and especially for those in rural areas who have to travel long distances, the current scheduling system is too burdensome and uncoordinated. Creating a one-stop scheduling platform at VA will help veterans make appointments that work for them, saving their time and money and improving access to care,” said Congressman Pappas. “This commonsense, bipartisan legislation will help deliver veterans the quality care that they have earned and deserve.”

“Veterans deserve a clear, straightforward pathway for receiving the care they need,” said Congressman Mackenzie. “As we honor Veterans Day this week, we can ensure that every veteran has access to the care they’ve earned without delay, confusion, or frustration. This bipartisan bill will make it easier for veterans to schedule appointments by streamlining systems and providing clearer, more user-friendly options. Our veterans served our country, now it’s our responsibility to ensure their care is delivered efficiently and effectively.”

This bill is the House companion to the bipartisan Senate bill introduced by Senators Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and John Boozman (R-AR).

Veterans service organizations strongly support this bill: 

“Veterans seeking care at Department of Veterans Affairs medical facilities deserve to have the most efficient, streamlined scheduling process available. By requiring a plan to make scheduling appointments easier, the Improving Veteran Access to Care Act aims to do just that. DAV applauds Rep. Pappas for introducing this critical legislation that focuses on timely delivery of care, enhanced access, improved customer experience and greater efficiency, as it will help ensure our veterans receive the high-quality, accessible care they have earned and urgently need,” said Joy Ilem, National Legislative Director, Disabled American Veterans (DAV)

“Creating a single, transparent scheduling system across VA facilities is long overdue. The Improving Veteran Access to Care Act reflects a pragmatic, bipartisan solution to a long-standing access challenge. Veterans should not have to navigate multiple systems just to see a doctor — and this bipartisan bill moves us closer to a modern VA that meets the needs of those it serves”, said Maj. Gen. April Vogel, USAF (Ret), Military Officers Association of America (MOAA) Vice President of Government Relations.

The legislation is also supported by the American Legion, Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA), and Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW).

The bill text is here. 

The bill would:

• Require VA to create a unified scheduling improvement plan and timeline;

• Improve both online and phone-based systems for appointment scheduling;

• Ensure veterans can schedule, cancel, or reschedule appointments more easily;

• Require regular reporting to Congress to ensure accountability and progress.

• Ensure improvements are compatible with ongoing Electronic Health Record modernization efforts.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Chris Pappas (D-NH)

Today Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) released the following statement about his commitment to lowering costs and fighting to make life more affordable for Granite Staters:

“The deal reached in the Senate on government funding fails to prevent a massive increase in health insurance costs for families and small businesses, and for that reason I can’t support it. I’ll keep fighting to get legislation to the House floor that will extend premium tax credits, but just hoping Speaker Johnson will do the right thing isn’t good enough for New Hampshire.”

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Chris Pappas (D-NH)

On Friday New Hampshire’s Congressional Delegation honored members of the New Hampshire law enforcement community for exemplary service at the New Hampshire Congressional Law Enforcement Awards (NH-CLEA) ceremony in Concord. 

“Congratulations to the men and women of law enforcement who were honored this year for going above and beyond to protect and serve our communities,” said Congressman Pappas. “Tonight we heard stories of courage under fire, uncommon valor, and selflessness that defines what it means to be in law enforcement and to do this work. That’s why it is vital we provide our law enforcement with the support, resources, and respect that they have earned. I’m grateful for the dedication of the New Hampshire law enforcement community which ensures our state is safe and strong.”

“Every day, New Hampshire’s law enforcement officers demonstrate tremendous courage and dedication as they take on difficult and often dangerous work that doesn’t always receive the recognition it deserves,” said Senator Shaheen. “The individuals honored at this year’s Congressional Law Enforcement Awards have exemplified leadership, professionalism, dedication and courage, frequently at great personal risk. I deeply appreciate their commitment to our communities and all they do to keep Granite Staters safe.”

“At the heart of the mission of law enforcement officers to serve and protect is selflessness,” said Senator Hassan. “Every day, they know that they may be called to put their lives on the line to save others, and they always answer this call with courage, integrity and devotion to duty. For this and more, I’m deeply grateful to this year’s Congressional Law Enforcement Award winners and to all those who help keep our communities safe.”

“It was an inspiring night honoring brave and true Granite State public servants,” said Congresswoman Maggie Goodlander. “I am forever grateful to New Hampshire’s law enforcement officers and to their family and loved ones for their service to the state we love and for the sacrifices they make for us all.  It is the honor of my lifetime to work for you in Congress and alongside you in upholding our Constitution and the rule of law.”

The New Hampshire Congressional Law Enforcement Awards were started in 1998. All New Hampshire law enforcement officers – whether they are serving full or part-time – are eligible to be nominated for recognition from the New Hampshire Congressional Delegation. Awardees are selected by an independent committee of law enforcement officers composed of current and retired federal, state, county, and local officials.

At the ceremony, Goodlander and Pappas honored the following law enforcement personnel with certificates of recognition on Friday:

2025 Congressional Law Enforcement Award Recipients

Above and Beyond the Call of Duty Award

This award recognizes officers who put their lives in harm’s way to help others. The NH-CLEA committee realizes that this is always part of any officer’s duties, but there are times when heroism and sacrifice in extreme circumstances need to be recognized.

• Officer Jeffrey Hennessy (Manchester PD)
• Detective Brendan Langton (Manchester PD)
• Lieutenant William Gudzinowicz (Merrimack PD)
• Sergeant. Stephen Wallin (Merrimack PD)
• Sgt. Sean McGuire (Merrimack PD)
• Officer Colin Leblanc (Merrimack PD)
• Officer Peter D’Ortona (Merrimack PD)
• Trooper First Class James Powers (NH State Police)
• Trooper Aramus Caraballo (NH State Police)

Officer Richard W. Bateman Dedication and Professionalism Award

This award, named in honor of Officer Richard W. Bateman, recognizes law enforcement personnel that go beyond their normal duties in service to others. 

• Detective John Dunleavy (Manchester PD)
• Detective Max Rahill (Manchester PD)
• Officer Thomas Crowley (Nashua PD)
• Officer Ryan Linehan (Nashua PD)
• Officer Garrett Murray (Nashua PD)
• Detective Raymond Lamy (Manchester PD)
• Detective Kevin Lally (Manchester PD)
• Detective Steven Carter (Concord PD)

Associate Service Award

This award recognizes that non-law enforcement personnel and civilians have come to the assistance of law enforcement officers in the course of their duties, at times putting their own lives in harm’s way and deserved recognition by the law enforcement community for their assistance.

• Chief Warrant Officer 4 Jeremy Gray (NH Army National Guard)
• Chief Warrant Officer 4 Luke Koladish (NH Army National Guard
• Sergeant First Class Aaron DeAngelis (NH Army National Guard)
• Sergeant First Class Ethan Major (NH Army National Guard)
• Sergeant Dan Bourque (NH Army National Guard)
• Pemigewasset Valley Search and Rescue Team 

Unit Citation Award

The Unit Citation Award is designated for actions that involved a group of officers in situations that the Committee deems appropriate. Examples include SWAT team activations or mountain rescue operations.

• Officer Garret O’Brien (Merrimack PD)
• Chief Daniel Poirier (Franklin Police Department)
• Lieutenant Ralph Hale (Franklin Police Department)
• Lieutenant Daniel Ball (Franklin Police Department)
• Sergeant Kent Matthews (Franklin Police Department)
• Sergeant Jon Francis (Franklin Police Department)
• Detective Kendall Poirier (Franklin Police Department)     
• Officer Jagger Bell (Franklin Police Department)   
• Officer Spencer Marvin (Franklin Police Department)
• Officer Brendan Merchant (Franklin Police Department)                 
• Officer Ainsley Bruno (Franklin Police Department)                                          
• Dispatch Supervisor Kate Burton (Franklin Police Department)
• Dispatcher Jordana Wing (Franklin Police Department)
• Lieutenant Allysia Burton (Northfield Police Department)
• Officer Adam Morton (Sanbornton Police Department)    
• Trooper Stefan Wong-Wagner (NH State Police)
• Chief Matthew Currier (Gilmanton Police Department)
• Conservation Officer Ronald Arsenault (NH Fish and Game)
• Sergeant Kevin Bronson (NH Fish and Game)
• Sergeant Geoffrey Pushee (NH Fish and Game)
• Conservation Officer Robert McDermott (NH Fish and Game)
• Lieutenant Robert Mancini (NH Fish and Game)
• Conservation Officer Joseph Canfield (NH Fish and Game)
• Conservation Officer James Cyrs (NH Fish and Game)
• Conservation Officer Christopher McKee (NH Fish and Game)
• Corporal Michael Simes (Pelham PD)
• Officer Taylor McCarthy (Pelham PD)
• Officer W. Max McQuaide (Pelham PD)
• Officer Richard Glynn (Pelham PD)
• Sgt. Adam Thistle (Pelham PD)
• Detective Bismark Montano (Pelham PD)
• Detective Jaime Huertas (Pelham PD)
• Corporal James Locke (Pelham PD)

Career Service Award

This award recognizes an individual that has, over the course of his or her career, shown an outstanding dedication to law enforcement and their community.

• Chief Paul Dean (Ret.) (UNH PD)

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Josh Harder (CA-10)

WASHINGTON – Today, as the U.S. Supreme Court considers overturning skyhigh tariffs, Rep. Josh Harder (CA-09) released the following statement urging the Court to deliver immediate price relief by striking down tariffs and called on Washington to pass his plan to bring long-term price stability. Today’s hearing will decide whether to uphold lower court rulings that the President cannot unilaterally impose broad tariffs, with a decision expected in the coming weeks.

“Make no mistake – these reckless tariffs are the largest tax hike on working families in decades, raising the price of everything from groceries to cars to clothes for your kids,” said Rep. Harder. “Families are already stretched to the limit. The Supreme Court should shut down this tariff insanity and give families some much-needed breathing room. But we can’t just play defense against rising prices. Congress needs to pass my plan to restore common-sense trade policy and deliver lasting affordability for Valley families.”

Valley products still facing major tariff increases:

Harder also called on congressional leaders to deliver long-term price and trade stability by passing his 3-step tariff plan:

1. Restore Trade Sanity — Harder is championing legislation to return Congress’ constitutionally authorized role in setting and approving U.S. trade policy.
2. Clear Labels — Harder is also supporting a bill to uncover exactly how tariffs are affecting prices.
3. New trade deals — Harder is calling on the U.S. Trade Representative to prioritize new trade deals as soon as possible to give long-term stability to consumers and businesses.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Josh Harder (CA-10)

WASHINGTON – Today, as food assistance funding runs out, Rep. Josh Harder (CA-09) released the following statement condemning the ongoing and preventable government shutdown that will cut food assistance for more than 100,000 San Joaquin County residents and 5.5 million people across California: 

“I’m infuriated that Washington is so broken that in a few days this shutdown is going to mean millions of people will lose access to CalFresh food assistance benefits. These are real families right here in our community who are going to go hungry. The CalFresh program is a critical lifeline for more than 100,000 of our neighbors and Congress needs to get its act together, come to a deal, and open the government before it’s too late.”

In response, Harder sent a letter to U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins calling for the Department to use contingency reserve funds to ensure continued access to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and CalFresh benefits.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Josh Harder (CA-10)

Candy prices up by nearly 80% in the last five years

Average 100-piece assorted candy bag has almost doubled in price to $16.39
 

WASHINGTON – Today, ahead of the busiest days of the month for Halloween shopping, Rep. Josh Harder (CA-09) announced a new 3-step plan to tackle rising tariffs that are causing prices to rise across the board. Harder is pushing to restore oversight of chaotic trade policy, investigate tariff price hikes, and prioritize new market stability for consumers. 

Halloween shoppers are getting spooked by tariff sticker shock:

• Candy prices have risen by 78% in the last five years, and a 100-piece candy bag is now up to $16.39.
• 86% of consumers say they’ve noticed candy prices are higher this year, and 79% anticipate higher prices due to tariffs.
• About half of U.S. cocoa imports come from Côte d’Ivoire, which now faces a 21% tariff on products shipped to the U.S.

“Halloween is supposed to be a fun time for parents and kids, not a holiday that’s going to break the bank,” said Rep. Harder. “We’re seeing prices soar across the board because of idiotic tariffs that are squeezing Valley families, and Halloween candy is just the latest example. We need to stop these tariffs, push for smart trade deals, and make it affordable to raise our families again.”

Harder’s 3-step plan to stop the endless trade war:

1. Restore Trade Sanity — Harder is championing legislation to return Congress’ constitutionally authorized role in setting and approving U.S. trade policy.
2. Clear Labels — Harder is also supporting a bill to uncover exactly how tariffs are affecting prices.
3. New trade deals — Harder is calling on the U.S. Trade Representative to prioritize new trade deals as soon as possible to give long-term stability to consumers and businesses.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Lauren Underwood (IL-14)

WASHINGTON — Rep. Lauren Underwood released the following statement on the Senate agreement to pass a continuing resolution that does not include an extension of the popular tax credits from her Health Care Affordability Act, and threatens health coverage for millions:

“This “deal” is nothing more than an empty promise from the same people who just passed the largest cut to health care in our nation’s history,” Underwood said. “Republicans created this crisis, and I will not support a bill that fails to address the skyrocketing health care costs that millions of families are facing. If this reaches the House, I will vote NO.”

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Angie Craig (MN-02)

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Representative Angie Craig released the following statement on her vote against the government funding bill that fails to extend the Affordable Care Act premium tax credits and raises health care costs for millions of Americans. 

“I have said from the beginning of this shutdown that I refuse to abandon the tens of thousands of Minnesotans who could lose their health coverage because of Republicans’ unrelenting attacks on health care. 

“I voted against this so-called ‘deal’ today because Minnesotans are asking their leaders to stand up to the Trump Administration and fight for them when it matters most. 

“Minnesota, I heard you loud and clear. It’s past time for us to lower costs for working folks in this country, and this bill doesn’t do that.” 

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Angie Craig (MN-02)

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Representative and Ranking Member of the House Committee on Agriculture Angie Craig and Assistant Leader Joe Neguse (CO-02) hosted a press conference on the Trump Administration’s deliberate suspension of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits. Reps. Craig and Neguse were joined by Reps. Nikki Budzinski (IL-13), Salud Carbajal (CA-24), Shontel Brown (OH-11), Melanie Stansbury (NM-01) and Alma Adams (NC-12).

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has sufficient SNAP contingency funding to provide full benefits for the month of November, despite the Republicans’ government shutdown. However, President Trump and Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins are refusing to release more than $5 billion in available funding taking away food assistance from nearly 42 million Americans.

“In the case of November SNAP benefits, this Administration’s hands are not tied,” Rep. Craig said in her remarks. “Withholding food from hungry children, seniors, people with disabilities and veterans is a choice.”

“The law is clear and unambiguous on this point,” she continued. “I am calling on the President to get back from Asia – to do the right thing and the moral thing. I am calling on the President to follow the law. And where are my Republican colleagues? Silent. Complicit. They have a responsibility to their constituents not to go along with this cruel behavior.”

“This Administration must stop playing politics with America’s hungry seniors, veterans and children,” Rep. Craig concluded.

Yesterday, Rep. Craig joined House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (NY-08) and Ranking Member of the House Committee on Appropriations Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) in a press conference to demand the Trump Administration use previously appropriated funding to fund SNAP in November.

The press conference followed a lawsuit filed by 25 states and the District of Columbia against the Trump Administration for illegally withholding Congressionally appropriated funds that would have helped fund food assistance benefits through November. You can read Rep. Craig’s statement on the lawsuit here. You can watch her interview with MSNBC’s Chris Jansing on the lawsuit and the Administration’s assault on SNAP here. 

You can watch the full clip of Rep. Craig’s remarks from today’s press conference here.

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