MIL USHOR-2b Engine

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mark Amodei (NV-02)

Washington, D.C. – Rep. Mark Amodei released the following statement after celebrating the annual Capitol Christmas Tree lighting. This year’s tree was selected from the Carson Ranger District of the Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, marking the first time Nevada has been represented in this tradition. 

“Watching a tree, grown in the heart of Nevada’s Second Congressional District, light up the West Lawn of the Capitol stands as one of the most memorable and meaningful moments of my service in Congress,” said Rep. Mark Amodei. “Nevadans know the beauty of our state, and this year, for the first time since this tradition began, that beauty was shared with the nation.

“I’d like to extend a special thank you to everyone who was involved, from the selection of the tree to its careful journey to Washington, D.C. This was a proud day for Nevada, and I was honored to be part of it.”

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Dwight Evans (2nd District of Pennsylvania)

63 million Americans provide unpaid, essential care to loved ones who have chronic illnesses or disabilities or face age-related health challenges

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

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Recently, Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) and Rep. Kristen McDonald Rivet (MI-08) introduced the American Water Stewardship Act, bipartisan legislation to reauthorize funding for several long-standing programs to maintain and improve water quality throughout the nation, including the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI).

“The Great Lakes are not only national treasures, but economic powerhouses, and the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative helps keep these waters clean and safe for all Americans to enjoy,” said Congressman Stauber. “Lake Superior is the backdrop of countless special memories for many Minnesota families, and I am proud to work on legislation that will preserve and protect these waters for future generations.”

“The Great Lakes are one of the best things about living in Michigan. They’re important to our jobs, how we spend our time off, and our drinking water; so many things depend on the health of the Great Lakes,” said Congresswoman McDonald Rivet. “I’m working with Democrats and Republicans to make sure the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative keeps going so we have this treasure for generations.”

In addition to the GLRI, the American Water Stewardship Act reauthorizes the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Long Island Sound and Columbia River Basin Restoration programs, the National Estuary Program, and the EPA’s BEACH Act program. All of these programs will help address water quality issues and carry out ecosystem restoration projects around the country.

Background: The GLRI provides the most significant investment in the Great Lakes ecosystem – the largest system of fresh surface water in the world – targeting Areas of Concern, invasive species, non-point source pollution, and projects to support habitats and local species. More than 8,000 projects have been carried out through the GLRI program in partnership with states, non-profits, and other community partners, generating more than $3 in economic activity for every federal dollar invested through the GLRI program.

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

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, the Minnesota Republicans and several other members of Congress sent a letter to Governor Tim Walz demanding immediate action to revoke a substantial number of illegally issued non-domiciled Commercial Driver’s Licenses (CDLs) in Minnesota, a failure exposed by a recent federal audit by the Department of Transportation. The letter highlights the latest example of Governor Walz’s failed leadership and chronic mismanagement of state affairs, putting the safety of Minnesotans and Americans at risk.

“First, it was the rampant fraud schemes like Feeding Our Future and Housing Stabilization Services, where billions in taxpayer dollars were siphoned off, some even making its way to terrorists. Now, this administration is actively compromising the safety drivers on our roads.” Said Congressman Stauber. “This waste, fraud, and abuse must come to an end. Minnesotans and the American people deserve better.”

The Minnesota GOP federal delegation has repeatedly called for transparency and accountability from the Walz Administration regarding its handling of multiple major fraud crises, receiving no substantive response to date. This latest development only reinforces concerns regarding the Walz Administration’s priorities and competence.

To read the letter, please click here.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Ilhan Omar (DFL-MN)

WASHINGTON — Congressional Progressive Caucus (CPC) Deputy Chair Rep. Ilhan Omar (MN-05) released the following statement regarding agents of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) using physical force against Rep. Adelita Grijalva (AZ-07) when she conducted oversight into the due-process rights of her constituents affected by raids in her district: 

“I strongly condemn today’s disgusting display of violence against Congresswoman Grijalva, who was pepper-sprayed along with her staff and pushed aside by ICE agents as she asked questions about her community members being disappeared off the streets by ICE raids.

“We are in a dangerous moment for American democracy. ICE agents are continuing to act with lawlessness and impunity and are cheered on by the President of the United States. If they are allowed to intimidate, harass, and physically assault members of Congress for doing their jobs, no one is safe in this country.

“The Trump Administration is attacking the most basic liberties and freedoms Americans enjoy. Masked, armed, and often unidentified men now roam our neighborhoods, kidnap community members, and use undue force against those who might protest—including sitting lawmakers with the constitutional authority to conduct oversight into ICE’s practices. 

“We need an immediate Congressional investigation into these agents’ use of pepper spray and force against Representative Grijalva. And Congress must pass the Progressive Caucus’s legislative slate to rein in these abusive practices and restore accountability.” 

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Ilhan Omar (DFL-MN)

WASHINGTON— Today, Congresswomen Ilhan Omar (D-MN) and Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA), Lateefah Simon (D-CA), and Dina Titus (D-NV), leaders in the Congressional Cannabis Caucus, introduced the Realizing Equitable & Sustainable Participation in Emerging Cannabis Trades (RESPECT) Resolution. This sense of Congress acknowledges steps and practices to create an equitable cannabis industry that addresses, reverses, and repairs the consequences of the failed “War on Drugs.”

“For decades, harsh cannabis laws devastated Black, Brown, and low-income communities. Today, those same communities are facing new barriers that prevent many of them from benefiting from the opportunities offered by a multi-billion-dollar industry,” said Rep. Omar. Congress has a responsibility to ensure that cannabis policy expands access to capital and invests in entrepreneurs whose communities were most harmed by outdated drug laws.”

Arrest and incarceration rates for marijuana offenses have been wildly disproportionate, with people of color far more likely to be targeted despite using marijuana at similar rates as white Americans. These laws have entrenched cycles of poverty and inequality. As more states continue to implement or expand marijuana legalization policies, job growth will continue in the industry, making it imperative to create a pathway to economic empowerment for Black and Brown communities to become entrepreneurs, leaders, and educators in this space.

“Marijuana prohibition has failed our communities,” said Rep. Carter. “It has disproportionately harmed people of color, fueling mass incarceration, ruining families, taking away opportunities, and burdening them with criminal records. It’s past time for the federal government to address the racial disparities that persist in the cannabis space and create inclusive pathways for people to access economic wealth.”

“We must elevate the role of equity in the legal cannabis marketplace and take bold, deliberate action to close persistent disparities. The war on drugs has devastated communities of color, and it is long past time to repair the harm and move beyond outdated, punitive cannabis policies,” said Rep. Simon. “I am proud to stand alongside my colleagues in introducing this Resolution, which will serve as a meaningful step towards economic and reparative justice.”

“For too long federal and state governments have unfairly prosecuted cannabis usage as a Schedule 1 drug,” said Rep. Titus.“The RESPECT Resolution is a critical step towards policy that addresses the disparities caused by the outdated scheduling of cannabis and the so-called War on Drugs. As Co-Chair of the Cannabis Caucus, I am advancing solutions that will finally put an end to the cycle of unjust incarceration and unequal enforcement.”

In addition to Reps. Carter, Omar, Simon, and Titus, The RESPECT Resolution is co-sponsored by Reps. Eleanor Holmes-Norton (D-DC), Hank Johnson, Jr. (D-GA), Mark Pocan (D-WI), and Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ).

This legislation is endorsed by Drug Policy Alliance, Last Prisoner Project, the Minority Cannabis Business Association, and the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML).

“The Drug Policy Alliance is proud to endorse the RESPECT Resolution, which calls for urgent action to ensure that cannabis markets and policies are fair for all communities. By highlighting state and local best practices, supporting global decriminalization, and urging states to end criminal penalties, restore rights, and ensure equitable participation in the emerging cannabis economy, the resolution charts a clear path toward meaningful reform. At a time when criminalization remains the law of the land and inequities remain deeply embedded in cannabis markets and policy, this resolution is both timely and critically necessary,” said Cat Packer, Director of Drug Markets and Legal Regulation for the Drug Policy Alliance.

“Last Prisoner Project is grateful to the sponsors of the RESPECT Resolution for their leadership in confronting the deep racial and economic inequities created by decades of cannabis criminalization. This resolution recognizes that while state cannabis laws have evolved, far too many people and communities are still living with the consequences of outdated federal policies. By calling for record clearance, community investment, and equitable licensing, this resolution is a crucial reminder that those most harmed by prohibition must be able to participate in — and benefit from — any legal cannabis market,” said Jason Ortiz, Director of Strategic Initiatives with Last Prisoner Project.

“It is important to remind lawmakers of the ongoing harms caused by marijuana prohibition and the opportunities to begin addressing them through sensible legislation. This resolution should serve as a call for Congress to prioritize dismantling failed criminalization policies, as well as a blueprint for doing so in a way that focuses on repairing the damage inflicted by decades of unjust enforcement,” said Morgan Fox, Political Director at the National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML).

Background:

The RESPECT Resolution:

• Urges cannabis reform by encouraging states and localities to adopt the best steps and practices to address equity in the industry and provide economic empowerment to communities of color disenfranchised by the “War on Drugs.”

• Acknowledges the racial disparities that exist in the cannabis industry, particularly for those who have criminal records for a substance that is now legal and regulated in most states.

• Calls on Congress to address, reverse, and repair the consequences of failed cannabis policies and regulations.

• Directs the United States to use its platform to advocate at the United Nations to de-schedule cannabis from international drug control treaties, expunge low-level marijuana offenses, study the impacts of controlling cannabis through international treaties, and treat cannabis as a legal commodity.

Read the full resolution text here.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Ilhan Omar (DFL-MN)

WASHINGTON–Ranking Member Ilhan Omar (MN-05) delivered the following opening statement at a Workforce Protections Subcommittee hearing entitled, “In Their Corner: Creating More Opportunities for American Boxers.”

“Thank you, Mr. Chairman, and thank you to our witnesses for your testimony today.

“When Republicans first notified us of today’s hearing, I was immediately excited. I have long been a fan of professional boxing and mixed martial arts, and I was hopeful that we could have a bipartisan discussion about revitalizing a sport that I love.  I came to this issue not just as a legislator, but as someone who admires the courage and craft of fighters who put their bodies on the line in the pursuit of greatness.

“At the turn of the century, Congress passed two landmark pieces of legislation to protect and support American boxers.  In 1996, Congress passed the Professional Boxing Safety Act (or the PBSA), which outlined health and safety provisions and mandated state athletic commissions to oversee all professional boxing events.  In 2000, Congress strengthened the PBSA with the Muhammad Ali Boxing Reform Act.  

“The Ali Act was designed to clean up the business side of boxing after decades of corruption that harmed boxers’ livelihoods and the integrity of the sport.  It required better financial disclosures, increased transparency of ranking and title decisions, and limited conflicts of interest so that a single company or individual could not both control a boxer’s contract and access to titles.  This was meant to stop promoters from demanding that boxers sign away their entire career just to have a chance at a title. 

“In practice, the Ali Act’s provisions helped give boxers more information and leverage to negotiate for a fairer share of the money that their fights generated and free themselves from any coercive and restrictive contract terms.  We should build on these successes and take time to explore other critical issues, such as the long-term cost of brain injury and the need for athletes in other combat sports, like MMA, to enjoy these protections.

“My hope is that we can use this hearing to discuss these issues thoughtfully and productively. However, my fear is that we are likely to focus on just one bill— H.R. 4624, the Muhammad Ali American Boxing Revival Act—and consider moving it quickly.

“But I urge my colleagues to take a moment to pause and hold two things in our minds at once.  First, there are some genuinely promising provisions in the Revival Act.  For example, a national one hundred and fifty dollar per-round minimum payment would lessen financial strain on boxers who are still finding their footing in the sport.  The bill would also set a national twenty-five-thousand-dollar floor for insurance coverage that the PBSA currently requires for every fight.

“Unfortunately, there are sections of the Revival Act that raise serious questions about who will actually control the future of boxing.  It would remove guardrails that prevent influential promoters from controlling the industry and forcing boxers into contracts that they do not benefit from.  This legislation could also allow major corporations to completely take over the sport, leaving boxers without the leverage or the ability to advocate for themselves and their physical and financial health.

“These provisions prioritize Goliath to the detriment of David.  Boxers, who put their bodies on the line, deserve to fight in an industry that pays them well, values their health and safety, and does not make them vulnerable to economic exploitation.  While not entirely harmful, this bill – as drafted – gives more power to promoters and big corporations than to boxers.  This is why many professional boxers are speaking out against it, including Evander Holyfield, Oscar de la Hoya, Claressa Shields, Jake Paul, and Nico Ali Walsh.

“I am not here to reflexively support or oppose H.R. 4624.  I am here to ask important questions to everyone involved—the promoters, the regulators, and especially the corporations that stand to gain the most.  Because we have to make sure that any ‘revival’ of boxing does not come at the expense of the very athletes we say we are here to protect.

“I want this hearing to be the start of a longer, serious bipartisan conversation about how we support our boxers and bring investment into the sport without sacrificing the necessary anti-monopoly firewalls that prevent American boxers from being exploited by powerful corporate actors and foreign investors.

“I look forward to our discussion today, and I yield back.”

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Ilhan Omar (DFL-MN)

WASHINGTON– Today, Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) spoke on the House Floor to honor Minneapolis Fire Department Chief Bryan Tyner for over 30 years of service to Minneapolis’s communities. Chief Tyner has announced he will retire at the end of 2025.

The full video can be found here.

Full transcript below:

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Minneapolis Fire Chief Bryan Tyner for over 30 years of selfless, dedicated service to our city.

“Serving as the second Black chief in the department’s history, Fire Chief Tyner  led Minneapolis Fire through some of the city’s most significant public safety challenges, including the Covid-19 pandemic.

“Throughout his tenure, Chief Tyner has worked tirelessly to advance the department’s health and safety initiatives, improve operations, and promote inclusion within the ranks.

“At the end of this year, the Chief will be transitioning into a new role, continuing his devoted service to our city as Executive Director of the Phyllis Wheatley Community Center.

“It’s been an honor to work alongside such a dedicated public servant and I’m incredibly grateful for his work to keep our communities safe.

“Thank you and I yield back.”

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Ilhan Omar (DFL-MN)

WASHINGTON– Today, Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN) spoke on the House Floor to honor the Minneapolis American Indian Center for their 50 years of service to Minnesota’s indigenous communities.

The full video can be found here.

Full transcript below:

“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Minneapolis American Indian Center and to celebrate their 50th anniversary.

The Minneapolis American Indian Center has carried out its mission of celebrating and uplifting Native culture through a wide range of programs and services that preserve important traditions. 

The center creates pathways for opportunity for over 35,000 tribally diverse American Indians living in the metropolitan area.

I am proud that my office was able to secure three million dollars in federal funding to support their renovation and expansion.

The Center stands as a powerful example of resilience and the enduring strength of the Native community. 

I ask my colleagues to join me in celebrating the Minneapolis American Indian Center’s 50 years of service.

Thank you and I yield back.”

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

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Representative Angie Craig blasted U.S. Postal Service (USPS) leadership in Minnesota following the release of the USPS Office of Inspector General’s (OIG) Fiscal Year 2025 (FY25) 4^th quarter (Q4) service performance report, which ranked the MN-ND District 47^th out of 50 nationwide.

According to the USPS OIG, the service standard for first-class two-day service in the Minnesota-North Dakota region has declined since last quarter – with only 82% of mail arriving on time, 5 points below USPS’ national target of 87%. The national average this quarter was 86.3%.

In FY25 Q3, the region saw 84.4% of mail delivered on time and ranked 32^nd in the nation for two-day service.

“Here in Minnesota, we started the year with unacceptable postal performance levels, and we’re ending with yet another startling quarterly report that puts our region in the bottom four districts nationwide,” said Rep. Craig. “This is beyond unacceptable. It’s well past time for USPS to re-evaluate their local leadership and start ensuring that letter carriers and postal workers have what they need to get Minnesotans their mail on time.”

Rep. Craig has consistently spoken out against unacceptable USPS performance in the South Metro and has led the charge to improve mail service and protect USPS from privatization. Local letter carriers and others have also raised the alarm about leadership changes that are impacting morale and culture in Minnesota post offices.

This Congress, Rep. Craig introduced her Deliver for Democracy Act, which would limit price increases on stamps until the USPS can achieve at least a 95% on-time delivery rate for periodicals and require the USPS to report annually to the U.S. Postal Regulatory Commission on its progress – including on-time delivery data for newspapers in its periodical service performance measurement.

In October, Rep. Craig successfully pushed USPS to launch an internal investigation into reports of delayed delivery of the New Prague Times. And in January, she led a resolution urging her Congressional colleagues to take all appropriate measures to reject the privatization of USPS.

Last year, following Rep. Craig’s bipartisan call for a statewide investigation, the USPS OIG announced an investigation into the entire MN-ND postal district.

And in January 2023, she launched an online USPS survey to gauge the extent of postal issues in the Second District and received more than 3,300 responses from Minnesotans. Rep. Craig delivered those responses directly to Postmaster General DeJoy’s office in Washington DC.

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