MIL USHOR-2b Engine

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Don Bacon (2nd District of Nebraska)

Bacon, Golden, and Colleagues Introduce Bill to Formally Review Mental Health Programs for Servicemembers and Veterans

WASHINGTON — Congressmen Don Bacon (NE-02), Jared Golden (ME-02), Jack Bergman (MI-01), and Tom Suozzi (NY-03), introduced the Improving Mental Health Support for Servicemembers and Veterans Act, which would launch a formal review into the effectiveness of the federal government’s mental health programs for veterans and transitioning servicemembers in an effort to address longstanding accessibility issues.

“The transition to civilian life is one of the most vulnerable periods in a servicemember’s career. We must ensure our mental health screening tools are validated, effective, and connecting people to care,” Bacon said. “The Improving Mental Health Support for Servicemembers and Veterans Act strengthens oversight, improves coordination between the Department of Defense and the VA, and helps ensure no servicemember falls through the cracks. I’m pleased to co-lead this bipartisan legislation with Rep. Golden on this important effort to better support our servicemembers and veterans.”

“When I came home from the Marines, I saw how important it is to have a strong support system in your corner. The VA is full of skilled public servants who do that work, but there’s only so much an individual employee can do about the fundamental gaps in service created by an imperfect system,” Golden said. “I’m grateful for the partnership of Congressmen Bergman, Bacon and Suozzi in the effort to show VA leaders just how lacking the agency’s outreach, rural logistics, and staffing efforts have been.”

“I’ve seen firsthand how the transition from active duty to civilian life can be one of the most vulnerable periods in a servicemember’s career. We owe our men and women in uniform more than gratitude – we owe them accountability and results,” Bergman said. “The Improving Mental Health Support for Servicemembers and Veterans Act ensures the Department of War and VA are working together effectively, eliminating gaps and duplication, and delivering real access to mental health care when it matters most. By requiring measurable standards, regular review, and transparency to Congress, this bill strengthens the transition process and helps ensure no Veteran falls through the cracks.”

“Too many veterans and service members fall through the cracks when transitioning from active duty to civilian life. We have to do better,” Suozzi said. “It’s our responsibility as lawmakers and Americans to make sure that everyone who serves our country receives the healthcare, including mental healthcare, they deserve,” said Congressman Tom Suozzi. “It’s common sense to assess and improve veterans’ health services of all kinds as time goes on. This bipartisan bill does just that, and I’m glad to join my colleagues, Congressmen Golden, Bergman, and Bacon, who I also thank for their service. Never forget the vet!”

The Improving Mental Health Support for Servicemembers and Veterans Act would require the Department of Defense-Veterans Affairs Joint Executive Committee (JEC) to assess the effectiveness of their programs and processes in facilitating access to mental health services for veterans returning to civilian life.

Included in JEC’s review would be a complete inventory of the government’s mental health programs, along with metrics, milestones and plans of actions to identify inefficiencies and gaps in programming. There would be a 180-day deadline to present the report to the House and Senate Veterans Affairs Committees.

The legislation would also require the JEC to update its existing Joint Separation Health Assessment (SHA) every two years. The SHA currently uses an outdated process to infrequently catalog veterans’ generalized health needs — an issue that forces policymakers to contend with data that isn’t specific nor timely enough.

Full text of the legislation can be found here.

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

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has awarded two Hurricane Helene-related grants to the Commonwealth of Virginia. 

One FEMA grant, worth $5,648,662.50, will help the Washington County Service Authority build water line that restores service to Damascus, Virginia. 

A second FEMA grant, worth $2,997,545.85, will assist the Rye Valley Water Authority, located in Sugar Grove, Virginia, repair a local potable water treatment and delivery system.

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

“Progress continues to be made in our efforts to rebuild Southwest Virginia communities impacted by Hurricane Helene.

“This latest round of grants worth more than $8.6 million helps local water authorities conduct water line repairs for the communities of Damascus and Sugar Grove.

BACKGROUND

 

FEMA funds are obligated to the Commonwealth of Virginia. The Commonwealth will be responsible for providing the funds to the sub-recipients.

In January 2025, Rep. Griffith announced $46.67 million in Helene relief to Virginia from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

In April 2025, Congressman Griffith announced nearly $6 million in Helene relief in a separate grant for Washington County water line repairs.

In January 2026, Congressman Griffith announced more than $4.2 million in Helene relief for a Wytheville wastewater treatment system.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Don Bacon (2nd District of Nebraska)

Bacon, Nebraska Delegation Announce Military Service Academy Days

Washington – U.S. Representatives Don Bacon (NE-02), Mike Flood (NE-01), and Adrian Smith (NE-03), and U.S. Senators Deb Fischer (R-NE) and Pete Ricketts (R-NE) announced four Military Service Academy Days across Nebraska.

Service Academy Days serve to inform high school students about the process to apply for a congressional nomination to a United States military service academy. Service academy representatives and alumni will be present.

“As a veteran who served nearly 30 years in the Air Force, I cannot share enough how much my military career meant to me and these academies help our youth get a start on their own exciting and fulfilling careers. I encourage our high school students to check out each of the academies and wish them the best as they start their application process,” said Rep. Bacon.

“America’s military service academies became the best in the world by developing unparalleled leaders for our nation’s Armed Forces. Our Congressional Delegation’s Academy Days provide an excellent opportunity to learn more about the nomination process and what it takes to earn a spot at one of these distinguished institutions. If you are interested in applying to a service academy, I encourage you to attend one of these events so or teams can help you begin your application journey with confidence,” said Rep. Flood.

“For generations, Nebraskans have served others in their communities, across our state, and around the world. This tradition of service remains one of our greatest strengths. I am proud to partner with our congressional delegation to host Academy Days and provide the next generation of military leaders an opportunity to learn about the nomination process and explore the possibilities our nation’s service academies offer,” said Rep. Smith. 

“Nebraska is home to thousands of dedicated service members who set the standard for those looking to serve. It is my pleasure to host Academy Days as an opportunity for students to learn about our nation’s exceptional military service academies and take the first steps towards becoming the future of the United States Armed Services,” said Sen. Fischer.

“Nebraska’s commitment to our Armed Forces is second to none. Each year, I honor that commitment by nominating outstanding young Nebraskans to attend our United States service academies. I encourage high school students from across our state to attend these Service Academy Days to learn more about the nomination process,” said Sen. Ricketts.    

All high school students, parents, and guidance counselors who have an interest in the nation’s service academies are welcome and no preregistration is required. The targeted audience is high school freshmen through juniors.

See below for dates, locations, and more information: 

Bellevue

March 14, 2026

8:00am-12:00pm

Bellevue University, John B. Muller Admin Building, 812 Bruin Blvd, Bellevue, NE

Columbus

March 18, 2026

6:00pm-8:00pm

Columbus Chamber of Commerce, 753 33^rd Avenue, Columbus, NE

North Platte

March 28, 2026

9:00am-12:00pm

Mid-Plains Community College, 1101 Halligan Drive, North Platte, NE

Norfolk

April 1, 2026

6:00pm-8:00pm

Norfolk Chamber of Commerce, 609 West Norfolk Avenue, Norfolk, NE

Additional locations to be announced. 

Please contact Shannon Howard, Rep. Bacon’s Director of Outreach, at (402) 938-0300 with any questions.

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

OLATHE, KS — Today, Representative Sharice Davids joined local housing and community development professionals to better understand the challenges and opportunities Kansans face in accessing affordable housing. The roundtable focused on practical, bipartisan solutions to ensure families across the Third District can find safe, stable, and affordable places to live — whether they are first-time homebuyers, renters, or looking to downsize or upsize as their needs change.

 

“Housing isn’t just about having a roof over your head — it’s about stability, opportunity, and dignity,” said Davids. “When families are forced to spend more than half of their income on rent, they’re making impossible choices between housing, food, health care, and child care. I’m committed to working across the aisle to expand affordable housing options so Kansans can build secure futures in the communities they call home.”

Across Kansas, there is a shortage of rental homes that are affordable and available to low-income households, causing many families to spend more than half of their monthly income on housing. It’s estimated that in 2021, Kansas had more than 55,000 fewer rental homes than needed. Also, currently 40 percent of renters in Johnson County are housing cost-burdened, meaning these families and others across the state must forego necessities — food, health care, child care — to afford rent.

 

Last year, Davids released her Housing Affordability Agenda, outlining a path forward for bipartisan legislation in Congress to ensure every American has access to safe, decent, affordable housing and the amenities needed to thrive. Her agenda centers on expanding supply, reducing cost burdens, and strengthening consumer protections in the housing market.

 

Earlier this month, Davids voted to pass the Housing for the 21st Century Act, the first comprehensive, bipartisan housing package in nearly a decade. The landmark legislation incorporates key provisions to:

• expand access to homeownership,
• accelerate the construction of manufactured housing,
• increase the availability of small-dollar mortgages,
• strengthen protections for borrowers and families living in public and assisted housing,
• enhance federal oversight of housing providers,
• and help lay the groundwork for new affordable housing development nationwide.

 

Along with her affordable housing agenda, Davids has worked across the aisle with her Kansas colleagues to make housing more affordable and accessible. She and former Rep. Jake LaTurner (R-KS-02) urged U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson to schedule a vote on bipartisan legislation that boosts affordable rental housing options in rural, suburban, and urban Kansas. Davids has also secured federal funding for multiple housing projects across Kansas’ Third District, from rural to urban to suburban communities.

 

Representatives at today’s conversation, which took place at Habitat for Humanity’s Pathway at Heritage Park project, included: Brennan Crawford, Executive Director and CEO, Build WyCo; Lindsay Hicks, President and CEO, Habitat KC; Megan Foreman, Housing Coordinator, Johnson County; Will Ruder, Executive Vice President, Home Builders Association of Greater Kansas City; Tim Holverson, President, De Soto Chamber of Commerce; and Ryan Vincent, Executive Director, Kansas Housing Corporation.

 

“We are pleased to see Congress taking meaningful action to address our nation’s housing crisis, including the House’s recent passage of the Housing for the 21st Century Act,” said Lindsay Hicks, President and CEO, Habitat KC. “This legislation marks an important step toward expanding access to safe, affordable housing for families nationwide. We appreciate Rep. Sharice Davids for convening today’s discussion and for taking time to hear about the housing challenges facing Johnson County. We urge both the House and Senate to move swiftly to pass comprehensive, bipartisan federal housing legislation.”

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (8th District of Illinois)

Oversight Subcommittee Ranking Member Warns Technology Could Enable Widespread Surveillance Without Meaningful Consent

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi (8th District of Illinois)

Krishnamoorthi’s Free Elections Act would block federal emergency powers from being used to interfere in elections

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Lois Frankel (FL-21)

Led by Representative Lois Frankel (FL-22), Florida’s Democratic congressional delegation introduced a resolution affirming the importance of maintaining scientifically recommended fluoride levels in public drinking water and urging states to continue this proven public health practice. Last year, Florida became one of only two states to prohibit adding fluoride to public water systems—threatening to reverse decades of progress in preventing tooth decay and protecting public health.

“Fluoride is safe, effective, and backed by decades of science,” said Rep. Frankel. “Ignoring the experts puts children and families at risk. This resolution is about protecting public health and standing firmly on the side of science.”

“Every day, dental hygienists educate patients about the important role fluoride has in preventing disease,” said Lancette VanGuilder, BS, RDH, PHEDH, CAES, FADHA, and former ADHA President (2025-2026). “Community water fluoridation delivers that protection to entire populations in the United States, including those who don’t have regular access to dental care. The American Dental Hygienists’ Association thanks Representative Frankel for introducing a resolution that reinforces what evidence has shown for more than 75 years: fluoridated water prevents tooth decay and strengthens American public health.” 

“As pediatric dentists and child health advocates, we see firsthand the transformative impact that community water fluoridation has on a child’s smile and their overall well-being. This legislation is a vital step forward,” said Thomas G. Ison, DMD, President of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD). “It recognizes water fluoridation for what it truly is: a safe, effective, and foundational public health intervention that levels the playing field for oral health. It proactively encourages states and local communities to maintain optimal, recommended levels of fluoride in water, ensuring our collective efforts are backed by science. A child’s oral health isn’t just about what happens in dental chairs — what happens throughout the day at home and school to prevent disease is critically important. We applaud the introduction of this legislation during National Children’s Dental Health Month, and we look forward to continued partnership with lawmakers at the national, state, and local levels to move closer to a future where preventable tooth decay is a thing of the past for every child.” 

“AADOCR strongly supports community water fluoridation as a safe, effective, and evidence-based public health measure that prevents tooth decay and improves oral health across the lifespan,” said the American Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research (AADOCR). “Decades of rigorous research confirm its safety and its vital role in reducing oral health disparities. We commend Representative Frankel for introducing this resolution and for her leadership in reaffirming this cornerstone of public health.” 

“Community water fluoridation remains one of the most studied and successful public health initiatives in our nation’s history,” said the American Association of Public Health Dentistry (AAPHD). “The science is clear—it is safe, effective, and one of the most cost-efficient ways to prevent tooth decay across the lifespan.  At AAPHD, we are committed to advancing evidence-based policies that promote health equity. Community water fluoridation does exactly that—it reaches everyone, regardless of age, income, or access to dental care. It is a smart investment in prevention and a cornerstone of a healthier future for all.” 

Community water fluoridation reduces tooth decay by about 25 percent and has been recognized by the CDC as one of the greatest public health achievements of the last century. Tooth decay remains one of the most common chronic diseases—especially affecting children and families with limited access to dental care.

The resolution recognizes fluoridation as a safe and cost-effective public health measure, encourages states and local communities to maintain recommended fluoride levels, and supports continued education and investment in oral health.

The resolution:

• Recognizes community water fluoridation as a safe, effective public health intervention to prevent tooth decay and promote oral health;
• Encourages States and localities to initiate or maintain fluoridation of community water systems at optimal levels recommended by public health experts;
• Recognizes the role of public health professionals, dental providers, and community leaders in promoting evidence-based oral health initiatives;
• Supports continued research, education, and investment in community water fluoridation programs to improve the oral health of the public; and
• Recognizes “National Children’s Dental Health Month’’.

Rep. Frankel was joined by 11 original cosponsors: Reps. Nanette Barragán (CA-44), Kathy Castor (FL-14), Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), Maxwell Frost (FL-10), Hank Johnson (GA-04), Betty McCollum (MN-04), Kelly Morrison (MN-03), Jared Moskowitz (FL-23), Darren Soto (FL-09), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), and Frederica Wilson (FL-24).

The resolution is supported by leading dental and public health organizations nationwide, including American Dental Hygienists’ Association (ADHA), the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), the American Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research (AADOCR), and the American Association of Public Health Dentistry (AAPHD)

For full text of the resolution, click here.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn)

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Betty McCollum (MN-04) invites high school students in Minnesota’s Fourth Congressional District to participate in the 2026 Congressional Art Competition. Announcing the competition, the congresswoman released the following statement:

“I’m pleased to announce my office’s participation in the Congressional Art Competition,” Congresswoman McCollum said. “Minnesota is a national leader in the arts, and every year I am so impressed by the talent and creativity of our young artists here in the Fourth District. This is a wonderful opportunity to showcase the artistic talents of students in our community, and I look forward to seeing all the entries displayed at the 2026 Spring Saint Paul Art Crawl!”

Background: 
Submissions are due Friday, April 10, 2026, no later than 5:00pm Central Time.

The competition is open to all high school students who either attend school or reside in the Fourth Congressional District. All entries will be displayed in the Atrium Gallery of the Schmidt Artist Lofts as part of the 2026 Spring Saint Paul Art Crawl, April 17-19, 2026. All entries will also be displayed in a digital exhibit on Congresswoman McCollum’s official website, mccollum.house.gov.

The winning entry from the Fourth District will be displayed as part of a national exhibit in the U.S. Capitol. Entries from the runners-up will be displayed in Congresswoman McCollum’s offices in Saint Paul and in Washington, D.C.

Please contact Congresswoman McCollum’s Saint Paul office at 651-224-9191 with any questions. Find complete rules and instructions at mccollum.house.gov/art-competition.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28)

Today, Congressman Henry Cuellar announced that the National Association of Community Health Centers presented him with the 2026 Distinguished Community Health Center Advocate Award in recognition of his work to protect and strengthen access to health care across South Texas and the country.

Community health centers serve as a lifeline for rural families, seniors, and working parents who depend on affordable, quality care close to home. Across TX-28, these centers provide primary care, mental health services, and critical public health support to thousands of residents each year.

In the most recent government funding bill signed into law, Congressman Cuellar secured key provisions to prevent federal agencies from delaying or canceling health care grants by cutting the staff responsible for administering them. These safeguards ensure that funding from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, the Health Resources and Services Administration, and other essential agencies continues reaching local clinics as Congress intended.

“These dollars keep clinic doors open and support the frontline professionals who deliver care in our communities,” said Congressman Cuellar. “I’ll continue working with our community health partners to ensure reliable federal support for the patients and providers who depend on these services.”

Cuellar Recibe el Premio al Defensor Distinguido de los Centros de Salud Comunitarios 2026

La Asociación Nacional de Centros de Salud Comunitarios Reconoce su Labor para Proteger Fondos Federales de Salud en el Sur de Texas

Washington, DC – Hoy, el Congresista Henry Cuellar anunció que la Asociación Nacional de Centros de Salud Comunitarios le presentó el Premio al Defensor Distinguido de los Centros de Salud Comunitarios 2026 en reconocimiento a su labor para proteger y fortalecer el acceso a la atención médica en el sur de Texas.

Los centros de salud comunitarios son un salvavidas para las familias rurales, las personas mayores y los padres trabajadores que dependen de atención médica asequible y de calidad cerca de sus hogares. En todo el Distrito 28 de Texas, estos centros brindan atención primaria, servicios de salud mental y apoyo esencial de salud pública a miles de residentes cada año.

En la más reciente ley de financiamiento del gobierno promulgada, el Congresista Cuellar aseguró disposiciones que impiden que las agencias federales retrasen o cancelen subvenciones de salud al reducir el personal necesario para administrarlas. Estas salvaguardas garantizan que los fondos de los Centros para el Control y la Prevención de Enfermedades, la Administración de Servicios de Salud Mental y Abuso de Sustancias, la Administración de Recursos y Servicios de Salud y otras agencias esenciales continúen llegando a las clínicas locales según lo previsto por el Congreso.

“Estos recursos mantienen las puertas abiertas y respaldan a los profesionales de primera línea que brindan atención en nuestras comunidades,” dijo el Congresista Cuellar. “Seguiré trabajando con nuestros socios comunitarios de salud para garantizar un apoyo federal confiable para los pacientes y proveedores que dependen de estos servicios.”

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28)

Today, U.S. Congressman Henry Cuellar, Ph.D. (TX-28), Ranking Member of the Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee, issued the following statement regarding U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) purchase and expansion of large-scale detention facilities, including a processing center facility in San Antonio:

“I oppose ICE’s plans to purchase and expand large-scale detention facilities, including the processing center facility in San Antonio, and I’m pressing for clear answers from ICE as this project moves forward.

“It is clear ICE failed to consult with the community ahead of this purchase, but ICE officials have said the agency intends to brief Congress as plans develop.  Based on the information that’s been shared so far, the proposed acquisition and retrofitting of the San Antonio facility could include about 1,500 beds and wrap-around services like medical care, but we still need more details concerning the plans, timing, and potential impact on our community’s infrastructure.

“ICE has also stated that these operations would be funded through the so-called One Big Beautiful Bill, which I voted against. 

“ICE hasn’t confirmed a timeline for the San Antonio site, and final staffing and capacity could still change. Nationally, ICE has indicated these facilities altogether could total more than 80,000 beds, though ICE has yet to provide full details to Congress. 

“As Ranking Member of the Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee, I don’t believe this is a responsible use of taxpayer dollars, and I don’t support this approach.”

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Congressman Henry Cuellar, Ph.D. is a senior member of the U.S. House Appropriations Committee. Previously, he served as a Texas State Representative and Texas Secretary of State.

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