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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Kim Schrier, M.D. (WA-08)

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Kim Schrier, M.D. (WA-08) introduced the bipartisan INSULIN Act to cap out-of-pocket insulin costs at $35, or 25% of the list price per month, for all Americans with diabetes. Congresswoman Schrier is joined in introducing this legislation by Reps. Diana Degette (CO-01), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01), Rob Bresnahan (PA-08), and Angie Craig (MN-02).

“As a doctor with Type 1 diabetes who depends on insulin, I understand the immediate need to bring down the cost of insulin – especially at a time when so many Americans are already struggling with high costs,” said Congresswoman Schrier. “I am proud to introduce this groundbreaking bipartisan legislation that will cap the price of insulin for all Americans and make a meaningful difference in the lives and the health of everyone in our districts.” 

Background: Currently, insulin costs are capped at $35 per month for people on Medicare, and nearly 30 states have separate price caps for state-regulated and private plans. The INSULIN Act would limit out-of-pocket costs for patients with diabetes by ensuring that group and individual market health plans waive any deductible and limit cost-sharing to no more than $35 or 25% of list price per month for at least one insulin of each type and dosage form.

The bipartisan bill would also:

• Require a study report on uninsured Americans who use insulin, including where they live, why they’re uninsured, and demographic and income data. 
• Create a new expedited FDA approval pathway to get biosimilar insulin to market more quickly. 
• Establish an insulin resource center and hotline to connect uninsured diabetes patients with diabetes resources and programs.

“Insulin insecurity is not a partisan issue. It’s a life-or-death issue,” said Rep. DeGette. “I have fought for years to lower the price of insulin for the over 40 million Americans living with diabetes. I have met with too many Coloradans who have shared their painful experience of rationing their insulin so they could afford groceries. No one in America should be forced to choose between their life-saving medication or feeding their families.”

“As a doctor, I have spent my career fighting for patients, and I’ve watched too many of them ration a hundred-year-old medicine because the price tag made it impossible to afford. That’s not right, and it never should have taken this long to fix. I’m proud to lead this effort in the House, and I won’t stop until every American with diabetes can afford the insulin that keeps them alive,” said Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks, M.D.

“Diabetes stole the lives of 100,000 Americans last year. Tens of millions of Americans are living with diabetes, and for many, insulin is a matter of life and death,” said Rep. Bresnahan. “No American should have to choose between paying the bills and getting the insulin they need, or risk their life rationing the doses they have left. This legislation isn’t just a Band-Aid on the problem. It delivers immediate relief for patients and reforms that will increase competition and drive down prices over the long term. Lowering the cost of insulin puts money back where it belongs: in the pockets of working families who need every dollar they earn. Middlemen and big corporations shouldn’t be making extra cash off the backs of working people who rely on insulin to survive.”

This bill has broad support among diabetes advocates.

“The American Diabetes Association (ADA) appreciates and applauds the House’s bipartisan introduction of the INSULIN Act, which would limit out-of-pocket insulin costs for patients at $35 a month,” said Lisa Murdock, Chief Advocacy Officer of ADA. “A recent survey, commissioned by ADA, showed that 40% of insulin users currently pay $150 each month, and there is widespread bipartisan support across the U.S. for making insulin affordable. The INSULIN Act would ensure no one has to choose between paying for insulin and other necessities. This bill puts people first and is a commonsense way to lower health care costs for Americans depending on insulin to live.”

“For the millions of Americans who rely on insulin every day, no one should have to choose between paying for their medication and meeting other basic needs,” said Dr. Robert Lash, Chief Medical Officer with the Endocrine Society. “The Endocrine Society applauds Representatives DeGette, Schrier, Miller-Meeks, Bresnahan, and Craig for introducing the INSULIN Act, which would help make insulin more affordable for people with private insurance while connecting uninsured patients to resources that can help them access this lifesaving medication. This bipartisan legislation is an important step toward ensuring that all people who need insulin can obtain it and stay healthy.”

“The Diabetes Leadership Council (DLC) and Diabetes Patient Advocacy Coalition (DPAC) applaud and thank Representatives DeGette, Miller-Meeks, Schrier, and Bresnahan for introducing the INSULIN Act of 2026,” said George Huntley, CEO. “This legislation will greatly improve access to affordable insulins for people living with diabetes, and it is time that the $35 monthly insulin co-pay cap apply to everyone as it does to Medicare beneficiaries today. We look forward to working to get this legislation across the finish line before the end of the 119th Congress.”

“For the more than 1.5 million Americans with type one diabetes (T1D), insulin access is life-or-death,” said Lynn Starr, Breakthrough T1D Chief Global Advocacy Officer. “By capping out-of-pocket cost at $35, the INSULIN Act ensures that people have dependable, affordable access to the insulin they require to live. We applaud Representatives DeGette, Miller-Meeks, Schrier, Bresnahan, and Craig for introducing the House INSULIN Act and urge their colleagues to stand with them on the side of all those living with T1D. While there is still more work to be done, we are hopeful that, together with the Senate, we will finally have the access to affordable insulin the entire T1D community deserves and depends on.” 

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Suzanne Bonamici (1st District Oregon)

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA), a member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee and former civil rights attorney, and U.S. Representative Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR-01) led 29 of their Democratic colleagues in both chambers of Congress in issuing a letter to U.S. Secretary of Education Linda McMahon opposing the decision from the U.S. Department of Education (ED) to end-run federal law and rescind federal guidelines in place for nearly half a century that are designed to proactively root out discrimination based on race, national origin, sex, and disability in career and technical education (CTE) programs.

“We write to express our strong opposition to the Department of Education’s … decision on July 23, 2026, to rescind guidelines from 1979 that worked to eliminate discrimination and denied services based on race, color, national origin, sex, and disability for career and technical education (CTE) programs, and urge you to reinstate the guidelines,” wrote the members. “As proponents of CTE, we know that fair and equitable access is critical to our students and the strength of our economy.”

“The 1979 Guidelines … established the Methods of Administration between states and the federal government to provide a framework for CTE programs to proactively root out discrimination. To date, this is the only mechanism within ED that actively works to prevent discrimination, as the Department’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR) responds retroactively to filed complaints,” the members continued. “The Guidelines were issued with a clear purpose, in the government’s own words: to end unlawful discrimination against people seeking the skills necessary for gainful and meaningful employment.”

They continued, “Despite the rescission of the Guidelines, the underlying nondiscrimination statutes remain in force, and we are hopeful that states will continue to fulfill their duty to prioritize practices adopted under the Guidelines. We believe the Guidelines remain critical, and we urge you to rescind your final rule.”

“Furthermore, the Department rescinded the Guidelines without following the law. While the Administrative Procedure Act (APA) includes an exception for notice-and-comment rulemaking before issuing or rescinding a final rule when the matter relates to ‘public property, loans, grants, benefits, or contracts,’ this exception does not apply in this case,” the group wrote. “Therefore, ED is required to go through notice-and-comment rulemaking before rescinding the Guidelines. This is all taking place while ED is being dismantled illegally without congressional input or oversight.”

The bicameral group of Democratic members requested responses to the following questions by Secretary McMahon:

1. What analysis led the Department to the decision to rescind the 1979 Guidelines?
2. What legal authority did the Department rely on to rescind the Guidelines?
3. Did the Department consult with any state CTE directors or civil rights organizations before rescinding the Guidelines, and if so, who?
4. What alternative mechanism will replace the Guidelines framework for proactive monitoring?
5. Was any equity or impact analysis conducted on how rescission would affect students of color, students with disabilities, and girls and women in CTE programs?
6. Will the Department commit to a public comment period before any permanent replacement policy is issued?

In addition to Kaine and Bonamici, the letter was signed by U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Angus King (I-ME), Ed Markey (D-MA), Patty Murray (D-WA), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), and Ron Wyden (D-OR) and U.S. Representatives Shontel Brown (D-OH-11), André Carson (D-IN-07), Judy Chu (D-CA-28), Yvette Clarke (D-NY-09), Danny Davis (D-IL-07), Mark DeSaulnier (D-CA-10), Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06), Dwight Evans (D-PA-03), Jesús García (D-IL-04), Daniel Goldman (D-NY-10), Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ-05), Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL-08), Seth Magaziner (D-RI-02), Jennifer McClellan (D-VA-04), Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-D.C.-AL), Chellie Pingree (D-ME-01), Andrea Salinas (D-OR-06), Lateefah Simon (D-CA-12), Suhas Subramanyam (D-VA-10), Dina Titus (D-NV-01), Paul Tonko (D-NY-20), and Frederica Wilson (D-FL-24).

Full text of the letter can be found here and below:

Dear Secretary McMahon:

We write to express our strong opposition to the Department of Education’s (Department, or ED) decision on July 23, 2026, to rescind guidelines from 1979 that worked to eliminate discrimination and denied services based on race, color, national origin, sex, and disability for career and technical education (CTE) programs, and urge you to reinstate the guidelines. As proponents of CTE, we know that fair and equitable access is critical to our students and the strength of our economy.

Before 1979, the provisions of Title VI (34 C.F.R. Part 100, Appendix B), Section 504 (34 C.F.R. Part 104, Appendix B), and Title IX (34 C.F.R. Part 106, Appendix A) were not adequately enforced in CTE programs. The Department of Health, Education and Welfare was sued in 1973 for failing to enforce Title VI. As a result of injunctive orders from the U.S. District Court of D.C., the 1979 Guidelines for Eliminating Discrimination and Denial of Services on the Basis of Race, Color, National Origin, Sex and Handicap in Vocational Education Programs (Guidelines) established the Methods of Administration between states and the federal government to provide a framework for CTE programs to proactively root out discrimination. To date, this is the only mechanism within ED that actively works to prevent discrimination, as the Department’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR) responds retroactively to filed complaints.

The Guidelines require each state CTE agency to run a compliance program that collects and analyzes civil rights data, conducts periodic reviews of local programs, provides technical assistance, and reports findings to OCR. While Title VI, Title IX, and Section 504 prohibit discrimination, the Guidelines turn those prohibitions into a working system of prevention, monitoring, and remedy, so that no student is steered into or shut out of a career path because of race, color, national origin, sex, or disability. The Guidelines were issued with a clear purpose, in the government’s own words: to end unlawful discrimination against people “seeking the skills necessary for gainful and meaningful employment.”

Career and technical education continues to grow nationwide, currently serving nearly 12 million students in K-12 and higher education. Congress annually recognizes the significant benefit CTE provides students in academic rigor, high school completion, employability skills, and college readiness. Despite the overall benefits, it is vital that the enforcement of nondiscrimination protections remains in place to end occupational segregation. Although Black students enroll in CTE programs at rates that roughly match their share of the overall student population, they tend to cluster in service-focused fields that often have lower earning potential. Research shows that students with disabilities who take at least four CTE courses in high school have better academic and employment outcomes, yet there are significant gaps in enrollment. Women continue to be significantly underrepresented in male-dominated, higher-paying fields6 , and middle and high school girls make up one in three students in STEM CTE programs, one in four in manufacturing and construction-related programs, and one in four in transportation, distribution, and logistics programs.

The Guidelines are also valuable to students who do not participate in CTE, as these programs are offered at 86% of public schools nationwide. For example, ensuring that facilities are accessible to CTE students with disabilities consequently ensures accessibility for all students with disabilities, regardless of their course enrollment. The Department’s argument is that it will continue to enforce federal civil rights laws. Yet ED announced, through an Interagency Agreement (IAA) in June 2026, that OCR would move to the Department of Justice. DOJ’s enforcement approach to civil rights differs significantly from ED’s, which raises concerns even if the Guidelines were still in effect. Prior to the announcement, OCR at ED had already been a target of this administration, with nearly half of its staff placed on administrative leave and seven of its 12 regional offices closing in March 2025. Meanwhile, the agency dismissed about 90 percent of the complaints it received over a seven-month period and reached zero resolution agreements involving seclusion and restraint, sexual harassment or violence, racial harassment, or discriminatory school discipline in all of 2025.

This is occurring while the administration systematically strips away other sweeping civil rights protections. When the Office of Career, Technical, and Adult Education, which oversees CTE programs, was transferred by IAA to the Department of Labor (DOL) last summer, the transfer was not officially announced by ED or DOL officials; it was only disclosed in court documents. The Department has now compounded that disruption to federal CTE oversight by rescinding the Guidelines that established the proactive civil rights compliance framework specifically applicable to CTE programs.

Furthermore, the Department rescinded the Guidelines without following the law. While the Administrative Procedure Act (APA) includes an exception for notice-and-comment rulemaking before issuing or rescinding a final rule when the matter relates to “public property, loans, grants, benefits, or contracts”, this exception does not apply in this case. Section 437 of the General Education Provisions Act (GEPA), which governs ED programs, explicitly overrides this APA exception for ED programs and states that the exception only applies in two limited circumstances. The first circumstance is for regulations that “govern the first grant competition under a new or substantially revised program authority,” which is not at issue here because no authority has been revised. The second circumstance is where the Secretary determines that following the APA procedures would “cause extreme hardship to the intended beneficiaries of the program affected by such regulations”.

ED’s final rule does not make that claim under GEPA, includes no finding that grantees would be under “extreme hardship,” and, in fact, has no mention of GEPA at all. Therefore, ED is required to go through notice-and-comment rulemaking before rescinding the Guidelines. This is all taking place while ED is being dismantled illegally without congressional input or oversight.

At the same time, the Department has implemented other measures that weaken civil rights protections for CTE students. These include eliminating longstanding disparate impact provisions from Title VI regulations and proposing to rescind the rules governing Equity Assistance Centers. These centers provide technical assistance to state and local educational agencies to address discrimination and desegregation challenges. Together, these actions weaken established systems of CTE oversight, civil rights enforcement, and technical assistance that have historically prevented discrimination that otherwise might have denied CTE students educational and career opportunities. 

Despite the rescission of the Guidelines, the underlying nondiscrimination statutes remain in force, and we are hopeful that states will continue to fulfill their duty to prioritize practices adopted under the Guidelines. We believe the Guidelines remain critical, and we urge you to rescind your final rule.

We also respectfully request responses to the following questions by October 5, 2026. 

1. What analysis led the Department to the decision to rescind the 1979 Guidelines?  
2. What legal authority did the Department rely on to rescind the Guidelines?
3. Did the Department consult with any state CTE directors or civil rights organizations before rescinding the Guidelines, and if so, who?
4. What alternative mechanism will replace the Guidelines framework for proactive monitoring?
5. Was any equity or impact analysis conducted on how rescission would affect students of color, students with disabilities, and girls and women in CTE programs?
6. Will the Department commit to a public comment period before any permanent replacement policy is issued? 

Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Doris Matsui (D-CA)

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Ahead of 988 Day, Congresswoman Doris Matsui (CA-07) and Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) reintroduced the 988 Implementation Act today with Congressmembers Nanette Barragán (CA-44), Troy Carter (LA-02), Lori Trahan (MA-03), Seth Moulton (MA-06), Jamie Raskin (MD-08), Dan Goldman (NY-10), Don Beyer (VA-08), Jennifer McClellan (VA-04), Becca Balint (VT-AL), and Kim Schrier (WA-08). The comprehensive legislative package will provide states with federal resources to build the crisis response infrastructure behind the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

“When someone reaches out for help in a moment of crisis, we have a responsibility to make sure help is there,” said Congresswoman Matsui. “988 has become a lifesaving resource for millions of Americans, but answering the call cannot be where our responsibility ends. We built a national front door to crisis care with 988. Now we need to strengthen what comes next by expanding mobile crisis response, increasing access to immediate community-based care, and connecting people to the treatment and support they need.”

“Everyday, millions of Americans face mental challenges and are unsure where to go for help,” said Congressman Fitzpatrick, Co-Chair of the Bipartisan Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Taskforce. “The 988 hotline streamlines resources for those in need, as part of a network of over 200 local crisis centers, yet only thirteen-percent of adults are aware of this critical resource. I am proud to join a bipartisan group of colleagues in introducing the 988 Implementation Act to build upon the critical progress we have made, and further ensure that our communities are properly equipped with crisis-response services.”

“Americans deserve compassionate care when they are experiencing a mental health or substance use crisis,” said Congresswoman Barragán. “That is why I am joining Representatives Matsui and Fitzpatrick in introducing the 988 Implementation Act, bipartisan legislation to strengthen the 988 Crisis Lifeline. It includes the 988 Community Infrastructure Act, a bill I introduced to help communities build or expand the facilities they need, so people in crisis can get timely care in a more welcoming and appropriate setting—not an emergency room or with law enforcement. By investing in the critical 988 lifeline, we can improve access to trained mental health specialists and ensure that no one falls through the cracks when they need help most.”

“Our nation is facing an unprecedented mental health crisis, and all too often people who are struggling don’t know where to turn to for help,” said Congressman Carter. “The 988 Crisis Line is a lifeline for so many people in our country. It connects them to care, to treatment, and to hope. I’m proud to support this important legislation that prioritizes the mental health and wellbeing of American citizens by investing in community-based crisis response, breaking down barriers to accessing mental healthcare treatment, and ensuring everyone knows where to turn to in moments of crisis.”

“Calling 988 takes courage, and answering takes patience and care. Our job is to support both,” said Congresswoman Trahan, Co-Chair of the Bipartisan Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Task Force. “We all know someone who has struggled with mental health or substance use and wished there was more help within reach. This bill delivers it, with a faster response, a real place to turn, and trained professionals ready to pick up the phone.”

“I’m extraordinarily proud of the success of the 988 lifeline since its implementation. The high volume of calls and messages to 988 shows that Americans are still in dire need of improved mental health resources,” said Congressman Moulton. “It is critical that we continue advocating for more funding and expanded 988 services. The suite of bills contained within the 988 Implementation Act will provide federal support for states to enact 988 and crisis services, improve 988 implementation at the local level, expand access to critical services, and broaden awareness of available resources.”

“America’s mental health epidemic leaves millions of our neighbors without access to the care they desperately need,” said Congressman Raskin. “I’m proud to join my colleagues to introduce this critical bipartisan legislation that will greatly expand access to mental health crisis response teams, an expert presence beside our people during the darkest moments.”

“Too many Americans in crisis are left without safe access to care,” said Congressman Goldman. “The 988 Lifeline is a proven system for getting people the help they need when they need it most. That’s why I’m proud to join in introducing the 988 Implementation Act to give states better resources to bolster their crisis response infrastructure and develop a full continuum of care that prioritizes safety and dignity for all communities.”

“Since its launch, the 988 Lifeline has connected more than 26 million Americans with the support they need in moments of crisis,” said Congressman Beyer. “That’s an extraordinary achievement, and we must build on that success to save more lives and ensure no one falls through the cracks. Our 988 Implementation Act would further strengthen our crisis response system by ensuring trained professionals are available around the clock, crisis teams are equipped to respond in communities, and those in need can access care and services without facing financial barriers.”

“Every year, 988 call centers respond to hundreds of thousands of calls and work around the clock to provide callers with the mental health and crisis management care they need. The 988 Implementation Act will increase access to care with greater support, workforce development opportunities and more,” said Congresswoman McClellan. “I applaud Reps. Matsui and Fitzpatrick for their leadership on this critical issue, and I’m grateful that they incorporated my legislation to provide and expand coverage for behavioral health crisis response services into the bill. Together, we can improve mental health nationwide and ensure 988 continues to help those in our communities who need it most.”

“Especially during Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, I’m incredibly proud to be introducing the 988 and 911 Integration Act,” said Congresswoman Balint. “One of my top priorities in Congress is reducing stigma and taking real action to improve access to mental healthcare. We know that mental health affects not just individuals, but also their families and communities, too. This bill, alongside the broader 988 Implementation Act, would help local communities strengthen and better utilize 988 resources–a lifeline for those experiencing a behavioral health crisis–and bridge gaps in care in communities all over the country.”

“As a pediatrician, I have seen firsthand how severe our youth and adult mental health crisis has become,” said Congresswoman Schrier, M.D. “It is so important that when our family members, loved ones, and neighbors are in crisis, they can get immediate help. The 988 Crisis Line saves lives and strengthens our communities. We need to make sure that 988 teams are always available for every American as a reliable resource when our community members need help.”

But answering the call is only the first step. Someone experiencing a mental health or substance use crisis may also need a trained professional to respond in person, a safe place to receive immediate care, or assistance with continued treatment. Today, access to those services still vary significantly depending on where someone lives.

The 988 Implementation Act will help address those gaps in access to care by:

• Strengthening federal funding for 988 regional and local call centers to deliver timely, 24/7 response to callers

• Expanding community-based and mobile crisis response so trained behavioral health professionals can reach someone who needs in-person support

• Improving access and affordability by requiring health insurance plans to cover crisis services

• Growing crisis workforce development with more funding for training and scholarship opportunities

• Increasing awareness of 988 through a national suicide prevention and crisis services campaign

The legislation is supported by more than 35 organizations including mental health advocates, clinical and medical professionals, state and local government officials, civil rights advocates, veterans, and more.

“The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline has transformed how people can access support during mental health, substance use and suicide crises,” said Hannah Wesolowski, Chief Advocacy Officer at the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). “We must continue building this progress by ensuring 988 has the resources, infrastructure and workforce needed to meet the needs of people in crisis. NAMI is grateful to Rep. Matsui for the introduction of the 988 Implementation Act, which will help strengthen the Lifeline and ensure communities can deliver the compassionate, timely mental health response that people deserve.” 

The 988 Implementation Act is endorsed by the following organizations: American Association for Psychoanalysis in Clinical Social Work, American Association of Psychiatric Pharmacists (AAPP), American Association on Health and Disability, American Group Psychotherapy Association, Anxiety and Depression Association of America, Association for Ambulatory Behavioral Healthcare (AABH), American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, Children and Adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD), Connections Health Solutions, Crisis Text Line, Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA), Easterseals, Inc., Global Alliance for Behavioral Health and Social Justice, Huntington’s Disease Society of America, International Society for Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurses, Lakeshore Foundation, Legal Action Center, NAMI, National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners, National Association of Social Workers, National Association of State Directors of Developmental Disabilities Services, National Association of State Mental Health Program Directors, National League for Nursing, Overdose Prevention Initiative at the Global Health Advocacy Incubator Psychotherapy Action Network (PsiAN), SMART Recovery, Steinberg Institute, Sycamores, The American Counseling Association, The Miles Hall Foundation, The National Alliance to Advance Adolescent Health, The National Federation of Families, The Paramedic Foundation/American College of Paramedics/American Paramedic Association, The Trevor Project, Tourette Association of America, and Treatment Advocacy Center (TAC).

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Brian Babin (R-TX)

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Congressman Brian Babin (R-TX), Chairman of the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee and senior member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, introduced the I-47 Future Interstate Act of 2026, to designate U.S. Route 287 as Interstate Route I-47.

“US-287 plays a critical role in facilitating transportation and bolstering economic opportunities across Texas and our nation,” said Congressman Babin. “Accounting for 25% of Texas’ GDP in 2021, it supports some of the state’s largest economic sectors, including, but not limited to, energy production, maritime, agriculture, cattle, and timber industries. Designating US-287 as I-47 and a High-Priority Corridor will help strengthen safety standards, improve regional connectivity, spur infrastructure investment, and support continued economic growth not only in Texas but also across the western United States. Texas is growing, and our infrastructure must grow with it. Establishing I-47 is a forward-looking investment in the communities, industries, and hardworking Americans who rely on this critical corridor every day.”

“Transportation Excellence for the 21^st Century (TEX-21) applauds Congressman Babin for his unwavering commitment to bolstering the nation’s economy and creating a safer transportation system,” said Chris Brown, Chair of TEX-21. “The organization also thanks Texas Department of Transportation for completing the US-287 Interstate Feasibility Study in 2025, which found a potential 161% return on investment should US-287 convert to an interstate, and an estimated 28% reduction in crash rates in Texas alone.”

“I-47 should be the prototype for all future interstates and for US highway conversions to interstate,” said Jeff Branick, Vice Chair of TEX-21 and County Judge of Jefferson County. “It should be the safest, smartest, most environmentally responsible, and most technologically adaptable interstate in the country.”

The I-47 Future Interstate Act of 2026:

·         Redesignates US-287 as I-47 and a High-Priority Corridor.

·         Increases economic growth throughout Texas and beyond.

·         Establishes uniform safety standards across five states.

·         Facilitates improved infrastructure development.

This legislation is supported by the Transportation Excellence for the 21^st Century (TEX-21).

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

WASHINGTON – Today Congresswoman Dina Titus (NV-01), senior member of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, introduced her Southern Nevada Wastewater Infrastructure Lands Act. This legislation would enhance water security for Southern Nevada by conveying approximately 250 acres of federal land underlying the Flamingo Water Resource and Desert Breeze Centers to the Clark County Water Reclamation District. 

“By giving the Clark County Water Reclamation District flexibility to adapt the sites of the Flamingo Water Resource and Desert Breeze Centers, I am ensuring they are able to continue providing reliable wastewater services to the more than 265,000 customers and 40 million annual visitors who depend on them,” said Congresswoman Dina Titus. “I have always been a strong champion for keeping our infrastructure strong and resilient. Just this year, I helped secure over $1.1 million for the Flamingo Water Resource Center to manage power outages and avoid incursions of wastewater.” 

The bill would direct the Secretary of the Interior, acting through the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), to convey approximately 250 acres of federal land to the District for public purposes. This land underlies two of the District’s core wastewater facilities. This legislation is necessary to remove restrictions in the District’s current federal land tenure that limit how these facilities can be operated, modernized, and repurposed to meet the community’s evolving wastewater and infrastructure needs.

“We thank Congresswoman Dina Titus for championing this important legislation. The Southern Nevada Wastewater Infrastructure Lands Act allows the District to  secure resources that ensure the continued and uninterrupted operations of some of Nevada’s most critical infrastructure.  This legislation helps enhance reliability of the operations at our facilities and enables us to responsibly plan for the future while continuing to provide essential wastewater services to the residents, businesses, and visitors who depend on them every day. This is a practical, forward-looking solution that supports the long-term reliability of Southern Nevada’s infrastructure,” said Tom Minwegen, General Manager of Clark County Water Reclamation District.

Key provisions of the legislation include:

• Directed conveyance. The Secretary shall convey the land within 180 days of receiving a request from the District, notwithstanding the land-use planning requirements of Sections 202 and 203 of the Federal Land Policy and Management Act of 1976 (FLPMA), and subject to valid existing rights.
• Public-purpose use. The land is to be used for public purposes at District facilities, including the construction, operation, and management of infrastructure supporting critical wastewater services.
• District pays costs. As a condition of conveyance, the District pays all costs of land surveys and other associated conveyance costs.
• Maps and legal descriptions. The Secretary prepares the legal descriptions of the parcels, may correct minor errors, and keeps the maps and descriptions on file for public inspection.
• Acquisition of reversionary interest. The District may request to acquire the federal reversionary interest; the Secretary would appraise that interest consistent with FLPMA, the Uniform Appraisal Standards for Federal Land Acquisitions, and the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Jesús Chuy García (IL-04)

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Jesús “Chuy” García issued the following statement on the passing of Gloria Steinem:

“Gloria Steinem was not just a journalist, activist, organizer — she was a force of nature and a change-maker. As a towering icon of the women’s movement, she dedicated her life to raise awareness, educate and fight for reproductive rights, equality in the workplace and at home, and to end violence against women. 

“Her own experiences facing sexism ignited a lifelong fire to fight on behalf of women. She stood at the forefront of the movement, giving voice and power to a post-war generation trying to find their place in a world dominated by men. 

“On a personal level, I am forever humbled and grateful for her support during my 2015 mayoral campaign in Chicago. Gloria believed in our cause, in me, and in the transformation we envisioned for our city.

“At a time when the Trump administration is stripping away fundamental rights and women’s bodily autonomy is under siege, as immigrant women face unimaginable cruelty, as working mothers drawn under the cost of childcare and healthcare, and as women’s military service to our nation is questioned, the urge to continue Gloria’s work has never been more vital.

“We have a moral obligation to protect reproductive rights, provide paid maternity and paternity leave, affordable childcare, equal pay for equal work, and protections against domestic violence. We must do this for Gloria, for our partners and wives, for our sisters, our daughters and granddaughters who deserve a more just world.  Rest in power Gloria Steinem.”

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Zoe Lofgren (D-San Jose)

WATSONVILLE, CA — Today, Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren (CA-18) announced that the City of Watsonville Police Department received a $22,285 Byrne JAG grant for crime analysis software. This will allow the agency to collect and analyze data on crime patterns, trends, and hot spots. Crime analysis will help identify areas with high levels of crime and assist in the deployment of limited resources to address crime more efficiently.

“One of my top priorities as a Member of Congress is ensuring that our communities are safe,” said Rep. Lofgren. “That’s why I’ve been supportive of federal funding that will provide law enforcement with the tools they need to help stop crime. I’m thankful for the Watsonville Police Department, and I hope that this new software will be useful as they work around the clock to protect and serve this city.”

“The support provided through this grant will give the Watsonville Police Department another valuable tool to better understand crime trends in our community and where our resources are needed most,” said Watsonville Police Department Chief Brian Shab. “By using reliable information to guide our decisions, we can focus our efforts where they will have the greatest impact and continue working toward a safer Watsonville. We are grateful to Congresswoman Zoe Lofgren for her continued commitment to our department and the Watsonville community.” 

The Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program is a formula grant program which serves as the leading source of federal justice funding to state and local jurisdictions. Since 2005, BJA has funded nearly 26,000 direct JAG awards, totaling over $8.2 billion.
 

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA)

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has awarded Virginia Tech, based in Blacksburg, Virginia, a grant for $750,993. The funding supports research of pulse-echo speed-of-sound imaging technologies.

In response to this grant notice, U.S. Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA) issued the following statement:

“Technological innovation studies at Virginia Tech project American strength in health care and science.

“This HHS grant for more than $750,000 helps Virginia Tech assess pulse-echo technologies for the benefit of health care providers and patients.”

BACKGROUND

As a member of the House Committee on Energy and Commerce, Congressman Griffith serves as the Chairman of the Health Subcommittee.

This project will be administered by faculty of the Biomedical Engineering department at Virginia Tech.

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

UPDATE: Termination of Temporary Protected Status for Haitians and Syrians

On Tuesday, June 25, 2026, the Supreme Court ruled that the Trump administration could move forward with its plans to rip legal status away from nearly 350,000 current Haitian and Syrian Temporary Protected Status (TPS) holders. Following this decision, the Department of Homeland Security announced the termination of TPS for Haitians and Syrians, effective July 27, 2026.

Individuals who have lost TPS may be impacted in different ways, including loss of protection from deportation and loss of work authorization. However, there may be alternative legal pathways to remain and work in the United States. To learn more about what the end of TPS means for you and your family:

• All TPS holders regardless of designation should visit the USCIS website for the latest updates on their TPS status. 
• Visit the NYC Mayor’s Office of Immigration Affairs website to learn more about what the expiration of TPS status means for impacted New Yorkers. Resource documents are available in English, Arabic, French and Haitian Creole.
• Contact the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs (MOIA), whose Legal Support Centers offer free, confidential immigration legal help. Free, safe and confidential immigration legal services are available regardless of your immigration status and in your language by calling the MOIA legal support hotline at 800-354-0365 or visiting nyc.gov/knowyourrights.

Donald Trump’s cruel immigration agenda will force hundreds of thousands of TPS holders to return to a dangerous and deeply unstable environment, putting people at great risk. House Democrats will continue pushing back to protect our communities, including the vibrant Haitian diaspora that calls New York City home.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07)

“Trump’s termination of Haiti TPS robbed this young man of his humanity, stripped him of his dignity, and inflicted mental trauma that became too much for him to bear.”

Pressley Renews Calls for Senate to Pass Her Legislation to Extend TPS for Haiti

Video (YouTube)

WASHINGTON – Today, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Co-Chair of the House Haiti Caucus, delivered a floor speech in which she mourned the loss of Pierre Damas Bel, a 20-year-old college student and Haitian immigrant on Temporary Protected Status (TPS) who reportedly died of suicide after the Trump Administration terminated TPS for Haiti and placed him in an ankle monitor. Congresswoman Pressley, who passed legislation out of the House to extend TPS for Haiti, renewed her calls for the Senate to follow suit without delay.

A transcript of the Congresswoman’s remarks is available below and the video is available here.

Transcript: Pressley Mourns Pierre Damas Bel, Haitian TPS Holder and Student Athlete Who Died of Suicide

U.S. House of Representatives

September 3, 2026

Mr. Speaker, I rise for the family and loved ones of Pierre Damas Bel, a beloved son and brother, 20-year-old college student and Haitian immigrant with Temporary Protected Status. 

He found joy on the soccer field and dreamed of studying medicine until the Trump administration forced an ankle monitor, really a shackle, on him and threatened his deportation. 

Trump’s termination of Haiti TPS robbed this young man of his humanity, stripped him of his dignity, and inflicted mental trauma that became too much for him to bear. 

He simply could not go on. 

Trump’s cruel attacks on our Haitian neighbors certainly will take a toll on our economy and our national security, but also a psychological and emotional toll. 

Mr. Speaker, no parent should lose their child, no sibling, their older brother. 

Yet Trump is traumatizing communities in every corner of our country. 

Pierre should be alive today, falling in love, playing soccer, on path to becoming a doctor. 

We honor his memory by doing everything we can to save lives and extend TPS for Haiti. 

The House has already passed our legislation to do just that, and the Senate must follow suit without delay.

Pierre’s father’s last words to him were, “Pierre, come home.”

Because of the cruelty, anti-blackness, and anti-immigrant policies of this administration, which I consider to be un-American, sadly, Pierre never will make it home. 

Rest in eternal peace.

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Congresswoman Pressley has been a leading voice in Congress pushing back against Trump’s threats to terminate Temporary Protected Status for Haitians. She has stood in vigorous defense for Haitian communities and all immigrant neighbors amid Trump and ICE’s attacks against immigrant communities.

In April 2026, Rep. Pressley secured a major victory in the House of Representatives, passing critical legislation to extend Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haiti by a vote of 224-204. The effort, which Congresswoman Pressley championed through a bipartisan discharge petition, is a watershed moment in her years-long advocacy for Haitian communities and immigrant families and marks an essential step forward in the fight to defend Haitian nationals from deportation.

• In August 2026, Congresswomen Pressley and Clarke, Co-Chairs of the House Haiti Caucus, issued a statement condemning the deportation and dehumanizationv of Haitian nationals. 
• In August 2026, Rep. Pressley issued a statement denouncing the termination of TPS for Haiti and Syria and standing in vigorous support of TPS holders and their families.
• In July 2026, Rep. Pressley alongside Congresswoman Laura Gillen, urged Senators to support legislation to extend Haiti TPS and protect the lives and livelihoods of Haitians and Americans alike.
• In June 2026, Rep. Pressley commended Senators Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) and Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), along with Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) and 16 other Senate colleagues, for introducing legislation to designate Haiti for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) in the Senate.
• In June 2026, Rep. Pressley denounced the Supreme Court’s devastating ruling to allow Trump’s attempt to terminate Temporary Protected Status for Haitians and Syrians. 
• In June 2026, Rep. Pressley held a press conference outside of the Supreme Court with Senator Markey, other lawmakers, advocates, and impacted community members to highlight the catastrophic impact the termination of TPS would have on our communities, businesses, schools, care economy, and more.
• In May 2026, Rep. Pressley, Senator Warren, and Senator Markey released a new investigative report revealing how President Trump’s attempts to end Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haiti would devastate the health care, elder care, and disability care workforce, harm patients, and hurt communities.
• In April 2026, Rep. Pressley held a press conference alongside colleagues and a coalition of seniors, care workers, advocates, and allies to demand the Supreme Court defend Temporary Protected Status (TPS).
• In April 2026, Rep. Pressley, alongside Rep. Wasserman Schultz and Senators Ed Markey and Chris Van Hollen, led 26 Senators and 157 Representatives in filing an amicus brief in the U.S. Supreme Court in Miot v. Trump, a consolidated case challenging the Trump administration’s unlawful termination of Haiti and Syria Temporary Protected Status (TPS).
• On March 28, 2026, Rep. Pressley’s discharge petition to force a House vote on extending Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haiti successfully met the 218-signature threshold to move forward with bipartisan support.
• In March 2026, Rep. Pressley joined Haitian faith leaders and advocates to urge the Supreme Court to affirm the lower courts’ rulings that deemed Trump’s push to terminate Haiti TPS unlawful.
• In February 2026, Rep. Pressley applauded a federal judge’s ruling to temporarily block Trump’s move to terminate Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haitians. Ending TPS for Haitians would leave over 350,000 Haitian nationals at risk of deportation, many of whom reside in the Massachusetts 7th congressional district.
• In January 2026, Congresswoman Pressley, alongside Senator Markey, held a field hearing on the importance of extending Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haiti. She documented this testimony in the legislative record. Footage from the hearing is available here and photos here.
• In January 2026, Rep. Pressley also organized a press conference in D.C. in January to sound the alarm on the harm of terminating TPS for Haiti on seniors and the U.S. care economy.

• On June 28, 2025, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) issued the following statement condemning the Trump Administration’s abominable termination of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haiti effective September 2nd, 2025.
• On June 5, 2025, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) and Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09) issued the following statement on Donald Trump’s executive order that bans citizens of 12 countries, including Haiti, from traveling to the United States, and places partial restrictions on citizens of seven more nations.
• On March 18, 2025,  Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Congresswoman Yvette Clarke (NY-09), and Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) led 62 of their colleagues in the House and 23 of their colleagues in the Senate in a letter to Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem demanding the Trump Administration redesignate and extend Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haiti, which the administration recently canceled on questionable legal authority.
• On February 20, 2025, Congresswomen Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Yvette Clarke (NY-12), and Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20) issued the following statement condemning the Trump Administration’s decision to end Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haiti.
• On April 23, 2024, Rep. Pressley, alongside Co-Chairs Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09) and Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), led a group of 50 lawmakers urging the Biden Administration to redesignate Haiti for Temporary Protected Status (TPS), pause on deportations back to Haiti, extend humanitarian parole to any Haitians currently detained in Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s detention centers, end detention of Haitian migrants intercepted at sea, and provide additional humanitarian assistance for Haiti.
• On April 18, 2024, Rep. Pressley and Haiti Caucus Co-Chairs led a letter to House Ways and Means Committee leadership emphasizing support for the early renewal of the Haitian Hemispheric Opportunity through Partnership Encouragement (HOPE) and the Haiti Economic Lift Program (HELP) Acts, commonly known as HOPE/HELP.
• On April 12, 2024, Rep. Pressley joined Haitian-led activists, organizations, and a directly impacted person in Haiti for a press call urging federal action to address the worsening humanitarian crisis in Haiti.
• On March 27, 2024, Rep. Pressley joined Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and her colleagues on the Massachusetts congressional delegation in urging the Biden Administration to expedite visa processing for Haitians, particularly  for relatives of U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents.
• On March 12, 2024, Rep. Pressley and Haiti Caucus Co-Chairs Reps. Cherfilus McCormick and Yvette Clarke issued a statement on the resignation of Haitian Prime Minister Ariel Henry.
• On March 6, 2024, Rep. Pressley issued a statement on the recent jailbreak and State of Emergency in Haiti.
• On December 8, 2023, Rep. Pressley and Congresswoman Yvette Clarke urged the U.S. Department of State to withdraw U.S. support for an armed foreign intervention in Haiti and encourage negotiations for a Haitian-led democratic political transition.
• On December 6, 2022, Rep. Pressley issued a statement applauding the Biden Administration’s extension and re-designation of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haiti.
• On December 1, 2022, Rep. Pressley, Rep. Cori Bush, and Rep. Mondaire Jones led 14 of their colleagues on a letter to Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas urging the Department to extend and redesignate Haiti for Temporary Protected Status (TPS).
• On August 17, 2022, Rep. Pressley, along with Haiti Caucus Co-Chairs Reps. Val Demings, Yvette Clarke, and Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), called on President Biden to appoint a new Special Envoy to Haiti, a position that has remained unfilled since September 2021.
• On May 31, 2022, Rep. Pressley and Reverend Dieufort Fleurissaint, chair of Haitian Americans United, published an op-ed in the Bay State Banner in which they called on the Biden administration to withdraw support for de facto ruler of Haiti, Ariel Henry, and instead support an inclusive, civil society-led process to restore stability and democracy on the island. 
• On May 26, 2022, Rep. Pressley, along with Representatives Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Andy Levin (MI-09), Jim McGovern (MA-02), and Frederica Wilson (FL-24), led a letter to United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Administrator Power urging her to act to ensure food security in Haiti.
• In February 2022, Reps. Pressley, Judy Chu (CA-27), and Nydia Velázquez (NY-07) led 33 other House Democrats on a letter to CDC Director Walensky demanding answers about the agency’s justification for treating asylum seekers as a unique public health threat, how these expulsions are being coordinated, how asylum seekers being returned to dangerous situations are being cared for, and more. Days later, Rep. Pressley once again called on the Biden Administration to reverse the Title 42 Order and other anti-Black immigration policies.
• On March 16, 2022, Rep. Pressley and Rep. Mondaire Jones called on Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Director Rochelle Walensky to fully end Title 42, cease deportations of people to Haiti and affirm their legal and fundamental human right to seek asylum.
• On February 16, 2022, Rep. Pressley joined Congresswoman Cori Bush (MO-01), Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), and 100 House and Senate colleagues in urging President Biden to reverse inhumane immigration policies – such as Title 42, originally introduced under the Trump Administration – that continue to disproportionately harm Black migrants.
• On February 14, 2022, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), alongside Representatives Judy Chu (CA-27) and Nydia Velázquez (NY-07), led 33 other House Democrats on a letter to Rochelle Walensky, Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, demanding answers about the agency’s justification for treating asylum seekers as a unique public health threat, how these expulsions are being coordinated, how asylum seekers being returned to dangerous situations are being cared for, and more.
• In April 2022, she joined her colleagues at a press conference reaffirming her support for President Biden’s decision to end Title 42. Full video of her remarks at the press conference is available here. Rep. Pressley applauded the Biden Administration’s end of Title 42 in a statement in April 2022.
• In September 2022, Rep. Pressley and Rep. Velázquez led 54 of their colleagues on a letter calling on the Biden Administration to immediately halt deportations to Haiti and provide humanitarian parole protections for those seeking asylum. The lawmakers’ letter followed the Administration’s resumption of deportation flights to Haiti as thousands of Haitian migrants continue to await an opportunity to make an asylum claim at the border. 
• In September 2022, Rep. Pressley joined her colleagues on the House Oversight Committee in demanding answers regarding the inhumane treatment of migrants in Del Rio, Texas, by Border Patrol agents on horseback and pushing to Biden Administration to end the ongoing use and weaponization of Title 42.
• On July 7, 2022, Rep. Pressley and Haiti Caucus Co-Chairs Reps. Andy Levin (MI-09), Val Demings (FL-10) and Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09) released a statement marking the one-year anniversary of the assassination of Haitian President Jovenel Moïse.
• On November 21, 2021, Rep. Pressley and Senator Elizabeth Warren led the Massachusetts congressional delegation on a letter to the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) calling on them to coordinate with the government agencies of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to assist newly arrived families from Haiti. 
• On October 18, 2021, Rep. Pressley, and Haiti Caucus Co-Chairs Reps. Val Demings (FL-10), Yvette Clarke (NY-09), and Andy Levin (MI-09) issued a statement following the kidnapping of American and Canadian missionaries in Haiti.
• On October 18, 2021, Rep. Pressley issued a statement on the civil rights complaint filed by Haitian families demanding a federal investigation into the heinous actions perpetrated by federal officials at the border.
• On October 22, 2021, Rep. Pressley, along with Oversight Chairwoman Carolyn B. Maloney, Subcommittee on Civil Rights and Civil Liberties Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-MD), and Reps. Rashida Tlaib (MI-13), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), and Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL), sent a letter to Troy A. Miller, the Acting Administrator of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), demanding a briefing and answers regarding press reports of the inhumane treatment of migrants in Del Rio, Texas, by Border Patrol agents on horseback. 
• On September 17, 2021, Rep. Pressley and Congresswoman Nydia M. Velázquez (NY-07) led 52 of their colleagues calling on the Biden Administration to immediately halt deportations to Haiti and take urgent action to address the concerns of the Haitian Diaspora after a 7.2 magnitude earthquake devastated Haiti.
• On August 14, 2021, Rep. Pressley Yvette Clarke (NY-09), Andy Levin (MI-09) and Val Demings (FL-10) and Mondaire Jones (NY-17) released a statement regarding the recent earthquake in Haiti.
• On July 14, 2021, Rep. Pressley and Haiti Caucus Co-Chairs Reps. Yvette Clarke (NY-09), Andy Levin (MI-09) and Val Demings (FL-10) sent a letter to U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas calling on him to take a series of steps to support the Haitian diaspora amid ongoing political turmoil in Haiti.
• In July 2021, the Reps. Pressley, Clarke, Demings and Levin issued a statement condemning the assassination of President Moïse and calling for swift and decisive action to bring political stability and peace to Haiti and the Haitian people.
• In May 2021, on Haitian Flag Day, Reps. Pressley, Levin, Clarke and Demings announced the formation of the House Haiti Caucus, a Congressional caucus dedicated to pursuing a just foreign policy that puts the needs and aspirations of the Haitian people first.

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