MIL USHOR-2b Engine

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

Congressman Don Beyer (D-VA) today requested detailed updates from CoreCivic on medical staffing levels, access-to-care protocols, and measures to ensure timely medication access at the Farmville Detention Center. The request follows an August 8, 2025 oversight visit that highlighted a significant need for increased medical staffing amid prolonged delays in access to care and medication, emphasizing ongoing concerns over the facility’s troubling pattern of substandard medical and safety standards. CoreCivic, which assumed operations of the Farmville facility from Abyon LLC in June 2025, had indicated plans to invest in upgrades, including a transition to electronic health records.

In a letter addressed to President and Chief Operating Officer at CoreCivic, Beyer wrote:

“Dear Mr. Swindle:

I am writing to follow up on my oversight visit to Farmville Detention Center on August 8, 2025 to ensure that the facility has increased medical personnel on staff and has updated protocols to allow for immediate access to medical staff.

When I visited in August, CoreCivic had recently taken over the Farmville Detention Center contract from Abyon LLC and had expressed plans in both news reporting and to me about investing in upgrades to the facility. At the time of the visit, it was clear that the medical staff were overwhelmed, could not relay to us the amount of medical staff that were employed by the facility, and that requests for medical attention were not met in a timely fashion, with some detainees waiting days for simple requests like medication for a headache (at which point such request would likely be moot). I understood that the facility was changing electronic health records and pharmacies as a result of the contract change, but the circumstances we witnessed could not simply be explained away by those stresses, and it was evident that the facility needed increased personnel and updated standards to meet the humanitarian standards required by law.

Farmville Detention Center has a history of failing to meet medical standards. In January 2021, a DHS audit of the Detention Center found various standards at the facility were not met, including access to emergency medical and mental health services. That was found again to be a standard that was unmet in a September 2023 audit. Due to the systemic nature of the issue when Farmville was under the management of Immigration Centers of America, I wrote to ICE after Abyon LLC took over the contract in March of 2024 to inquire about what improvements were being made in the new contract. Specifically, I inquired about what improvements were being made to health and safety standards so that issues like medical neglect would not continue and access to emergency medical and mental health services would improve.

I was therefore concerned to hear that these issues were still apparent upon my visit in August. My team and I had to personally intervene in a medication access case, which despite repeated phone and email communications, was only resolved after my in-person visit and confirmation with the detainee that it had not been resolved, despite communication to me otherwise.

Now that sufficient time has passed for any natural hiccups in a contract switch over to be addressed, I am writing to request an update on the staffing at the facility and protocols on access to medical care. Specifically, I request the following information:

1. How many medical staff were employed by Abyon LLC as of May 2025? How many medical staff are currently employed by CoreCivic as of November 2025? Please indicate the number and their professional title.
2. Are there plans to hire more medical personnel? Please elaborate in detail and include hiring timelines.
3. What protocols are in place to ensure that detainees can meet with a medical provider or receive access to their medication in a time-sensitive manner? Please describe the current protocol, and if there have been any changes since my oversight visit. If yes, indicate what they were.
4. Please indicate if there have been any updates to mental health access protocols specifically. Please describe the current protocol, and if there have been any changes since my oversight visit. If yes, indicate what they were.

As you know, Congress passed legislation in July that provided $170 billion for immigration and border enforcement, including funding specifically allocated for detention and deportation operations. Therefore, CoreCivic should have sufficient access to resources to make upgrades and hire the staff needed to ensure the facility can meet the requisite medical and safety standards.

Please provide a response to my questions in this letter no later than December 16, 2025. I look forward to hearing from you.”

A signed copy of the letter is available here.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Rick Larsen (2nd Congressional District Washington)

Today, Representative Rick Larsen (D-WA-02), Ranking Member of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, and Representative Burgess Owens (R-UT-04) introduced the Transportation Assistance for Olympic and World Cup Cities Act to authorize $50 million in funding each year to improve transportation infrastructure in the cities hosting next year’s—and future—Olympic and World Cup games.

“USMNT’s success on the field is inevitable, and this bipartisan bill makes sure the United States succeeds off the field, too,” Rep. Larsen said. “The World Cup needs world-class infrastructure to ensure teams and their fans can safely travel to and from every game. That’s why we’re unlocking millions of dollars in funding for host cities—like Seattle in my home state—to improve their transportation infrastructure before the opening whistle.”

“As the host of the 2002 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games, Utah knows how to welcome the world, and we’re gearing up to do it again in 2034,” Rep. Owens said. “I’m proud to be Utah’s top advocate on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and to co-lead this effort to give host cities across America the dependable federal partner they need while preparing to host major international sporting events like the Olympics and World Cup. This support strengthens transportation planning, boosts local collaboration, and ensures the United States is ready to shine on the global stage.”

Legislation Background

Funds authorized by this legislation can be used to help host cities prepare their transit routes, roads, sidewalks and other transportation infrastructure for multiday international sporting events, including the FIFA Women’s and Men’s World Cups, the Olympics, Paralympics and Special Olympics. Hosting a single World Cup match can cost cities roughly $100 to $200 million. Under this legislation, cities would be eligible for up to $10 million per event per year. To learn more, click here.

This legislation is a House companion to the identically named bill introduced by Senators Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Jerry Moran (R-KS).

World Cup Background

The 2026 World Cup will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico. Seventy-eight games will be played in the United States across 11 host cities: Atlanta, Boston, Dallas, Houston, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Miami, New York and New Jersey, Philadelphia, Seattle and the San Francisco Bay Area. For the 2022 World Cup, Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) estimated its television viewership at 2.7 billion people.

This Friday, December 5th, the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts will host the FIFA 2026 World Cup Final Draw in Washington, D.C.

For more information about the 2026 World Cup, click here.

###

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Earl L Buddy Carter (GA-01)

Headline: E&C holds hearing on Carter’s bill protecting kids’ online safety

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Energy and Commerce Committee (E&C) today held a Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade Subcommittee hearing entitled “Legislative Solutions to Protect Children and Teens Online,” which included Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter’s (R-GA) bipartisan bill, Sammy’s Law. 

Sammy’s Law is a bill safeguarding children online by informing parents about dangerous interactions on social media. The bill, which gives parents the choice to use third-party safety software to protect their children from harmful situations on social media, is named after Sammy Chapman, who, at the age of 16, was approached by a drug dealer on Snapchat and was unknowingly a victim of fentanyl poisoning.

“Our children are being victimized by bad actors on social media,” said Rep. Carter. “As a father and a grandfather, my heart aches for Sammy’s parents and any others who have lost a child too soon. No parent should have to endure that pain. I believe Sammy’s Law is essential to addressing this silent epidemic that is in homes across America, as it would offer effective barriers against drug abuse, human trafficking, mental health crises, eating disorders, and other harmful situations before they endanger our children. I thank the Energy and Commerce Committee for holding this hearing today and urge continued bipartisan support for this critical, life-saving legislation.”

Read full bill text here.

###

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Bob Latta (R-Bowling Green Ohio)

Today, Congressman Bob Latta (OH-5), Senator Pete Ricketts (NE-R), Senator Jacky Rosen (IL-D), and Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (LA-2) announced that they will co-chair the relaunch of the bipartisan, bicameral Wi-Fi Caucus. Initially founded in 2018, the Wi-Fi Caucus is dedicated to assisting Members of Congress in better understanding how Wi-Fi benefits the American public, consumers, economy, and the larger geopolitical standing of the United States. 

“Wi-Fi is the backbone of how Americans connect today, whether they are accessing the Internet, working remotely, or managing smart devices at home or in their businesses. As this technology continues to shape our daily lives, Congress must have a clear understanding of its role in our modern economy. I look forward to the Wi-Fi Caucus working to inform our efforts in Congress to keep consumers connected and our country competitive,” said Congressman Bob Latta (OH-5). 

“Supporting American technologies is the best way to combat Communist China. We must strengthen domestic access to Wi-Fi to promote innovation and avoid reliance on foreign networks. The Wi-Fi Caucus will focus on smart spectrum policy that strengthens security and hardens data privacy for all Americans,” said Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE). 

“Affordable, reliable high-speed internet is no longer a luxury; it’s a critical tool that connects communities, supports businesses, and makes education and health care accessible,” said Senator Jacky Rosen (D-NV). “That’s why my colleagues and I are launching the first ever bipartisan, bicameral Wi-Fi Caucus to increase connectivity and innovation through high speed, wireless internet. The Wi-Fi Caucus will highlight the importance of investing in American broadband technology, which will enhance security, boost our digital economy, and ensure that all Americans can benefit from this technology.”  

“Now more than ever before, access to reliable internet is a necessity for Americans of all backgrounds for their education, health care, jobs, and essential public services. Bridging the digital divide is critical to ensure every community can fully participate in today’s economy and democratic society. As policymakers, we have an obligation to ensure every citizen has access to reliable, equitable, and affordable high-speed internet – and close the digital divide once and for all. By relaunching the Wi-Fi Caucus, we take a crucial step towards bipartisan policy solutions that ensure digital equality and access to the internet for all of our constituents,” said Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (LA-2). 

In addition to the co-chairs, relevant groups and organizations have applauded the formation of this new, bipartisan, bicameral caucus.  

“WifiForward applauds the establishment of a bipartisan, bicameral Wi-Fi Caucus and thanks co-chairs Sen. Pete Ricketts, Sen. Jacky Rosen, Rep. Bob Latta, and Rep. Troy Carter for their leadership on an American innovation success story that impacts every single American, regardless of party, district, or state,” said Mary Brown, Executive Director, WifiForward. “We thank all the members for being champions of Wi-Fi and their commitment to uplifting its uniquely American success story. WifiForward looks forward to working with the Caucus on critical priorities, like unleashing more unlicensed spectrum, to expand fast, affordable connectivity for all Americans.” 

“Robust, reliable Wi-Fi is the backbone of America’s digital economy and everyday life,” said Gary Shapiro, CEO and Vice Chair, Consumer Technology Association (CTA). “We thank Senators Pete Ricketts and Jacky Rosen, and Representatives Bob Latta and Troy Carter, for relaunching the bipartisan Wi-Fi Caucus and reaffirming their commitment to connecting every community. CTA looks forward to engaging with the Caucus to unlock additional unlicensed spectrum to support Wi-Fi driven innovation.” 

“Wi-Fi Alliance applauds the bipartisan leadership of Senators Pete Ricketts and Jacky Rosen and Representatives Bob Latta and Troy Carter for reestablishing the Wi-Fi Caucus to advance policies that sustain U.S. leadership in wireless innovation,” said Kevin Robinson, President and CEO of Wi-Fi Alliance. “Wi-Fi is the primary way Americans connect to the internet, delivering hundreds of billions of dollars in annual economic value. Ensuring continued access to vital unlicensed spectrum, including the full 6 GHz band, and other innovation-enabling policies will empower Wi-Fi to meet the nation’s growing connectivity needs and extend digital opportunity to every community.” 

“Congratulations to the co-leaders of the Wi-Fi Caucus. This caucus will play an essential role in helping Members of Congress and their staff understand the dynamic and rapidly evolving technologies that underpin the success of Wi-Fi. Since our founding, the WBA has been dedicated to resolving business challenges and fostering collaboration among service providers, enterprises, and cities so they can deliver outstanding and secure Wi-Fi experiences and fully realize the commercial opportunities emerging across the ecosystem. Through convening industry stakeholders and publishing technical reports and standards throughout the year, we work to advance innovation and best practices across the sectors. We look forward to working with the Wi-Fi Caucus to share insights, support its educational mission, and highlight the WBA’s role in driving progress for the entire wireless community,” said Tiago Rodrigues, President and CEO at the Wireless Broadband Alliance (WBA). 

“Wi-Fi is the workhorse of the internet, carrying the majority of internet traffic — including nearly 90% of mobile data — and powering consumers and businesses in countless ways. Its impact on American ingenuity and innovation is massive, fueling broad-based economic growth and generating more than $2.1 trillion in value between 2025 and 2027. The creation of the bipartisan Congressional Wi-Fi Caucus recognizes Wi-Fi’s essential role in connecting lives, advancing this home-grown technology, and driving the growth of our digital economy. We thank Caucus co-chairs Senators Ricketts and Rosen and Representatives Latta and Carter for their leadership in promoting America’s Wi-Fi interests,” said Hon. Cory Gardner, President & CEO, NCTA – The Internet & Television Association. 

“WISPA has long supported the advancement, maintenance, and growth of Wi-Fi and unlicensed spectrum by Congress. The recently launched Wi-Fi Caucus provides an excellent bipartisan forum for open and informed dialogue. We look forward to working with House Chairs Latta and Carter and Senate Chairs Ricketts and Rosen on this critical issue for our members and industry,” said WISPA President and CEO David Zumwalt. 

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Paul Tonko (Capital Region New York)

WASHINGTON, DC — Congressman Paul D. Tonko (NY-20), Co-Chair of the Congressional Addiction, Treatment and Recovery (ATR) Caucus, today joined in a training titled, Caring Communities: Guidance for Supporting Survivors of Suicide Loss. The training — hosted by the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), Capital Region NY Chapter in collaboration with the ATR Caucus and the Bipartisan Mental Health Caucus — delivered information, resources, and practical guidance for attendees, including congressmembers and staff, on how to best support and interact with someone who has experienced a loss to suicide.

“I first became an advocate for mental health treatment during my time in the New York State Assembly, after meeting a bright, vibrant young man, Timothy O’Clair,” Congressman Tonko said. “Timothy suffered from significant mental health challenges and, due to a lack of mental health parity, lost his health care coverage. As a result of losing that coverage, he completed suicide. He was 12 years old. His spirit inspired me to write and advance Timothy’s Law in New York State, one of the first mental health parity laws in the nation.

Tonko continued, “Right now, every 11 minutes one person dies by suicide making suicide one of the top 8 leading causes of death for people aged 10 to 64 in 2023. Behind each statistic is a person. And behind each loss, a circle of loved ones, friends, and entire communities left to grieve.

“They deserve our compassion, care, and commitment, which is why today’s training is so important. I’m so grateful to our Capital Region NY Chapter of AFSP for bringing their expertise and resources so that we in Congress can provide the support our communities need and deserve.”

The training was led by Dan Egan, AFSP Board, and Loss and Healing Council Chair, and Ali Walker, AFSP National Chapter Leadership Council. Congressman Tonko is a longtime supporter of AFSP Capital Region NY, and earlier this year received their 2025 Joe Albert – Starfish Award.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jared Huffman Representing the 2nd District of California

December 02, 2025

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representatives Jared Huffman (D-Calif.), Glenn Thompson (R-Pa.), Hillary Scholten (D-Mich.), and John James (R-Mich.), along with U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) and Bill Cassidy (R-La.), introduced a bipartisan, bicameral resolution recognizing the 50th anniversary of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and the historic step this legislation took by mandating that every child with a disability in America be given equal access to a free, appropriate public education.

In the House, this resolution is cosponsored by U.S. Representatives Alma Adams (D-N.C.-12), Don Bacon (R-Neb.-02), Dina Titus (D-Nev.-01), Emily Randall (D-Wash.-06), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-Pa.-01), Gabe Evans (R-Colo.-08), Kevin Hern (R-Okla.-01), Jack Bergman (R-Mich.-01), Janelle Bynum (D-Ore.-05), Kevin Kiley (R-Calif.-03), Kimberlyn King-Hinds (R-Northern Mariana Islands), Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-Ill.-08), Doug LaMalfa (R-Calif-01), Julie Fedorchak (R-N.D.) Laura Friedman (D-Calif-30), John Mannion (D-N.Y.-22), James Moylan (R-Guam), Maria Elvira Salazar (R-Fla.-27), Claudia Tenney (R-N.Y.-24), David Valadao (R-Calif.-22).

This resolution is cosponsored in the Senate by U.S. Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Andy Kim (D-N.J.), Angus King (I-Maine), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Ben Ray Lujan (D-N.M.), Edward Markey (D-Mass.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.).

“Every child – no matter their zip code, race, disability, or any other factor –deserves the education they need to succeed,” said Rep. Huffman. “50 years ago, Congress passed IDEA to transform classrooms for kids with disabilities and finally make that happen. Now, we won’t stop pushing for full funding and fighting to ensure Congress delivers on this promise.”

“Since its passage fifty years ago, IDEA has opened the doors to a quality education for millions of students with disabilities across America. On IDEA’s anniversary, we honor all those who fought to make IDEA a reality and celebrate the dedicated educators who support students with disabilities in and out of the classroom. While we take stock of the progress that has been made because of this landmark legislation, I remain committed to the fight to fully fund IDEA – to move us closer to delivering greater, more equal access to high-quality education for every student in this country,” said Senator Van Hollen.

“All children deserve an education that gives them the resources they need to reach their full potential,” said Dr. Cassidy. “By empowering parents to partner in their child’s education and equipping teachers with resources, IDEA ensures children with disabilities have the opportunity to succeed in the classroom.”

“Fifty years ago, Congress passed the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act to ensure that every child with a disability has access to a high-quality education. IDEA opened classroom doors, expanded opportunities, and transformed education for millions of students with disabilities. Today, we celebrate half a century of inclusive education that provided every child the opportunity to thrive,” said Rep. Thompson.

“Since President Ford signed it into law 50 years ago, IDEA has opened doors for millions of children with disabilities,” said Rep. Scholten. “I represent the same West Michigan seat that President Ford once held, and as the proud daughter of a special education teacher, I have seen how this law has transformed classrooms and strengthened opportunity for every child. It has allowed students to learn alongside their peers, participate fully in their communities, and pursue futures that were once out of reach. As we mark this anniversary, we must recommit to President Ford’s vision of investing in special education and ensuring every student has what they need to learn and thrive.”

The resolution is endorsed by The School Superintendents Association (AASA), Association of School Business Officials International (ASBO), Council for Exceptional Children, the National Center for Learning Disabilities, and National PTA.

“IDEA’s promise has always been about more than access – it’s about opportunity. It opened doors to possibility, respect, and belonging for millions of students who had long been denied access to public education. It transformed what families could expect and reshaped what our schools could provide. But opportunity demands resources. As we reflect on 50 years of IDEA, we thank members of Congress for recognizing this important milestone and urge them to put forward the resources so we can continue to implement the law with fidelity,” said David R. Schuler, Executive Director of AASA, The School Superintendents Association.

“Fifty years ago, Public Law 94 142 ignited a culture shift that affirmed the inherent potential and rights of children with disabilities. CEC’s members have led the charge- opening school doors, designing curriculum and supports, and translating research into practice across the country. This week we honor that legacy and look forward with determination to building on that progress to improve education and outcomes for infants, toddlers, children, and youth with disabilities,” said Chad Rummel, Executive Director, Council for Exceptional Children.

“Fifty years of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act is an incredibly important milestone and on behalf of the students, families, and educators we serve, I am privileged to remark on the tremendous progress that has been made in educating students with disabilities,” said Dr. Jacqueline Rodriguez CEO of the National Center for Learning Disabilities. “We commend the bipartisan leadership in celebrating this anniversary and upholding the importance and significance of this federal law that ensures a free appropriate public education in the United States.”

The full text of the resolution is available here.

###

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal (7th District of Washington)

Washington (December 2, 2025) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), member of the Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee, and Representative Yvette Clarke (NY-09), Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus, held a press conference today to reintroduce their Artificial Intelligence (AI) Civil Rights Act, comprehensive legislation to prevent companies from using biased and discriminatory AI-powered algorithms to help make critical decisions in Americans’ lives, ensure algorithms are tested before and after deployment, and increase transparency of complex algorithms used for critical decisions.

The legislation is co-led in the House by Representatives Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Summer Lee (PA-12), and Ayanna Pressley (MA-07). The legislation is co-sponsored by Senators Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), and Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), and Representatives Wesley Bell (MO-01), André Carson (IN-07), Judy Chu (CA-28), Danny K. Davis (IL-07), Chris Deluzio (PA-17), Jonathan Jackson (IL-01), Robin Kelly (IL-02), Jim McGovern (MA-02), Eleanor Holmes-Norton (D-D.C.), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), Mark Pocan (WI-02), Delia Ramirez (IL-03), Bennie Thompson (MS-02), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), Frederica Wilson (FL-24), Jesús G. “Chuy” García (IL-04), and Valerie Foushee (NC-04).

“We must address AI-powered bias and discrimination in the AI age,” said Senator Markey. “Under the AI Civil Rights Act, America would show leadership in AI—not just technological leadership, but moral leadership. We cannot abandon our principles in reckless pursuit of technological superiority. Otherwise, we risk building a future where innovation races ahead, but justice falls behind. I am grateful for Congresswomen Clarke, Pressley, Jayapal, and Lee for their partnership on the AI Civil Rights Act. We will not allow for AI to stand for accelerating injustice.”

“The AI Civil Rights Act represents a bold new front in our ongoing battle to protect the rights, dignity, and safety of every American. From developers to deployers, this legislation will place strict, strong, and unambiguous guardrails on the creation and use of artificial intelligence. I am deeply grateful to Senator Ed Markey for his steadfast leadership in introducing this critical bill. Together, we are making it very clear that innovation must never come at the expense of civil rights or justice,” said Rep. Clarke.

“As AI innovation grows, it is incumbent on us all to prioritize the safety, rights, and opportunity of all people—especially the Black, brown, and marginalized communities who disproportionately bear the burden of biased and discriminatory systems,” said Rep. Pressley. “We cannot allow AI to be the latest chapter in America’s history of exploiting marginalized people. That is why the AI Civil Rights Act is necessary—to invest in an approach rooted in equity that safeguards all of our civil rights and liberties.”

“This legislation comes at an inflection point for our country. Artificial intelligence has become a part of our everyday lives and grown into a projected $244 billion industry. A major risk of this new technology is the biases and discrimination that are built into algorithms – denying people housing or jobs based on race or gender. Our bill would place critical guardrails to ensure that the technologies of the future do not harden the injustices of the past,” said Rep. Jayapal.

“I represent neighborhoods that know what it feels like to be overpoliced, underinvested, and overlooked. If artificial intelligence is shaping people’s lives, then we must mitigate the harm it causes. This legislation puts up the necessary guardrails in an age of disinformation and misinformation. I’m grateful to Representatives Yvette Clarke, Pramila Jayapal, and Ayanna Pressley for co-leading this effort and for Senator Ed Markey for his partnership on this bill. We can and should be innovative with our technology, but never at the cost of our civil rights,” said Rep. Lee.

“The Lawyers’ Committee is proud to work in partnership with Senator Markey, Representatives Yvette Clarke, Summer Lee, Ayanna Pressley, and Pramila Jayapal as they introduce the AI Civil Rights Act to help ensure that AI systems are fair and equitable, as they become a large part of our daily lives. Most AI tools are built using data that reflects generations of racial discrimination, redlining, and segregation. Algorithms built on information about a troubled past can create new models that replicate these traumas as if they should be the norm for the future. So, increased transparency and accountability in the development and deployment of these technologies are critical steps for combating algorithmic bias. The Lawyers’ Committee has been on the front lines of this issue, litigating in the courts and leading policy debates focused on the impacts and opportunities of emerging technology for Black people and other communities of color. We all deserve technology that works for us, not against us.  Adopting appropriate human-centered guardrails is both logical and a critical need. We know that with fierce defenders of civil rights and democracy in Congress like the sponsors and co-sponsors of the AI Civil Rights Act, we can make that ambition a reality,” said Damon Hewitt, President and Executive Director of the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law.

“Technologies, including AI systems, are only innovative if they help people. AI should be a tool that works for all of us, no matter where we come from, the color of our skin, our age, or how much money we have. But every day, qualified people are unjustly locked out of jobs, housing, education opportunities, and health care, or are wrongly jailed or imprisoned because of AI systems that discriminate. AI is powerful, so when it discriminates it can supercharge bias,” said Maya Wiley, President and CEO of The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights. “The AI Civil Rights Act offers a way forward towards fairness and accountability by helping us see how AI is working, ensuring better accuracy, and holding companies that create and use AI accountable for protecting our rights. We are grateful for Senator Markey and Congresswoman Clarke’s commitment to creating a strong pro-civil rights federal standard that ensures we can all reap the benefits of the AI revolution.”

“With corporations increasingly using AI systems to hire, fire, surveil, and make disciplinary decisions, workers need common-sense civil rights protections. The Artificial Intelligence (AI) Civil Rights Act introduced by Senator Markey and Congresswoman Clarke will do just that. It establishes critical guardrails to prevent AI discrimination, requires transparency from corporations around how they use AI, and holds corporations accountable when their AI systems perpetuate bias. This bill will be helpful in the labor movement’s ongoing fight to make sure that AI benefits workers instead of harming their jobs, rights, and freedoms,” said Jody Calemine, Director of Advocacy at the AFL-CIO.

“The AI Civil Rights Act is the bold, innovative policy we need today to ensure a just tomorrow for us all. The premise is simple: the AI tools and systems used at the most critical decision points in our lives – mediating our access to homes, employment, healthcare, and opportunities –should be demonstrated to be accessible and fair before being unleashed on the American public. With this technologically sophisticated bill, anchored in enduring American commitments to freedom, Senator Markey ushers in a new day for civil rights and digital equity,” said Alondra Nelson, Distinguished Senior Fellow, Center for American Progress, and former Acting Director, White House Office of Science and Technology Policy.

“AI is shaping access to opportunity across the country. ‘Black box’ systems make decisions about who gets a loan, receives a job offer, or is eligible for parole, often with little understanding of how those decisions are made. The AI Civil Rights Act makes sure that AI systems are transparent and give everyone a fair chance to compete,” said Cody Venzke, Senior Policy Counsel, American Civil Liberties Union.

“Artificial intelligence is fast becoming a part of everyday life, impacting all of our major decisions from housing and employment to education and healthcare. We thank Senators Markey and Booker, and Representative Clarke, for their proactive leadership in safeguarding our civil rights. The AI Civil Rights Act ensures that AI technologies do not reinforce existing inequalities, and instead contribute to a more just and equitable society,” said the National Urban League.

The AI Civil Rights Act is endorsed by the Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, the AFL-CIO, National Urban League, Alondra Nelson, Distinguished Senior Fellow, Center for American Progress and former Acting Director, White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, Sam Levine, Former Director of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection, A Better Balance, Access Now, ACLU MA, American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), American Federation of Teachers (AFT), Asian Americans Advancing Justice | AAJC, Autistic Women & Nonbinary Network, Brennan Center for Justice, Center for AI and Digital Policy, Center for Digital Democracy, Color of Change, Common Cause, Common Sense, Communications Workers of America, Deaf Equality, Demand Progress, Economic Policy Institute, Electronic Privacy Information Center (EPIC), Fight for the Future, Free Press Action, Hearing Loss Association of America, Immigrant Defenders Law Center, InnovateEDU, Interfaith Center on Corporate Responsibility, International Brotherhood of Teamsters, Investor Alliance for Human Rights, Japanese American Citizens League, Justice in Aging, NAACP, National Action Network, National Association of Consumer Advocates, National Education Association, National Housing Law Project, NETWORK Lobby for Catholic Social Justice, New America’s Open Technology Institute, Open MIC, Oxfam America, Paralyzed Veterans of America, Seventh Generation Interfaith Coalition for Responsible Investment, Sojourners, The National Alliance to End Homelessness, The National Hispanic Media Coalition (NHMC), The NYU Policing Project, The Trevor Project, The Value Alliance, UnidosUS, United Church of Christ Media Justice Ministry, United Steelworkers, Writers Guild of America East (WGAE), Youth Power Project, Third Act , LGBT Tech, Consumer Federation of America, Movement Advancement Project , League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC), Disability Rights Education & Defense Fund (DREDF), The Loop Lab / The Hope Group, National Partnership for Women & Families, and Kapor Center Advocacy.

A full list of endorsement statements is available HERE.

Issues: Civil Rights

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Haley Stevens (MI-11)

“Michigan can’t afford any more Trump-driven manufacturing setbacks.”

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, a new report from the Institute for Supply Management showed that U.S. manufacturing has shrunk for the ninth month in a row, with nearly two-thirds of manufacturers now ‘managing head count’ as opposed to hiring.

In response to the ongoing Trump tariff chaos squeezing manufacturers, Michigan Congresswoman Haley Stevens issued the following statement:

“Trump’s reckless tariffs are slamming Michigan manufacturers: driving up costs, slowing production, and making it harder for Michigan workers to get good-paying jobs. Michigan can’t afford any more Trump-driven manufacturing setbacks.

“We need real solutions that strengthen our manufacturing economy, lower costs, and protect our workers. I will keep working to keep Michigan at the center of American manufacturing and support hard-working families across our state.”

 

###

 

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Haley Stevens (MI-11)

Stevens: “The integrity of college sports must not be sacrificed for short-term financial gain”

WASHINGTON, D.C. – ICYMI: Congresswoman Haley Stevens criticized the Big Ten’s consideration of a $2.4 billion deal with UC Investments – a move she warned would put corporate greed ahead of Michigan students, athletes, and long-held traditions.

In a letter sent to Big Ten Commissioner Tony Petitti on November 25, Stevens warned the proposal would open the door to private equity firms buying their way into college sports, escalating realignment chaos, and undermining the mission of public universities.

Here’s what Michiganders are reading about the bill:

Michigan Advance: Stevens says Big Ten’s private equity deal marks ‘dangerous expansion’ of influence

By: Kyle Davidson

• Reports that the Big Ten Conference could sell a stake of its media rights to a private equity group have led Michigan U.S. Rep. Haley Stevens (D-Birmingham) to send a letter to the conference’s commissioner stating her opposition to the deal and requesting additional information.
• Publicly reported details show the Big Ten would sell 10% of its media rights to UC Investments, a group affiliated with the University of California system pension fund, for $2.4 billion.
• In her letter to the conference commissioner Tony Petitti, Stevens warned the deal would be a “dangerous expansion of private equity influence over our nation’s universities, harming the quality of college sports and the integrity of university governance.”
• The influence of wealthy non-university interests has already created issues for college sports, Stevens said, pointing to the role of television networks in eliminating the regional nature of conferences through realignment.
• The deal would open the door for other conferences to seek investment from private enquiry groups, Stevens said, arguing it would further undermine regional cohesion. She also warned that giving private investment firms control of sports television revenue would create undue influence over university decisionmaking.
• Big Ten member universities should be focused on their mission to educate and prepare young people for fulfilling and productive lives instead of maximizing television revenue in partnership with wealthy financial institutions.
• Stevens requested Petitti respond with an answer to the following questions by Dec. 12.

Deadline Detroit: Michigan Congresswoman Haley Stevens Fires Off Letter to Commissioner Opposing Big 10 Private Equity Deal

By: Allan Lengel

• Michigan Democratic U.S. Rep. Haley Stevens fired off a letter Tuesday to Big Ten Commissioner Tony Petitti warning against a proposed plan that calls for the conference to sell a 10 percent stake in its media rights to UC Investments for $2.4 billion.
• Stevens insists the deal would put corporate profits ahead of student-athletes, college sports, and university integrity.
• “Such an agreement would be a dangerous expansion of private equity influence over our nation’s universities, harming the quality of college sports and the integrity of university governance,” she wrote in the letter.
• “The influence of extremely wealthy, non-university interests has already created significant problems in college sports. Television networks’ quest for increasing market share of fan viewership has led to nonsensical conference realignment that destroyed the regional nature of college sports cherished by generations of fans.”
• “These race-to-the-bottom deals in search of more athletics media revenue will inevitably create future conference realignment, further undermining regional cohesion in college sports. There are already reports that legacy Big Ten member universities opposed to the deal are considering leaving the conference if it is adopted, further contributing to the revolving door of conference realignment.”

Crain’s Detroit Business: Pressure on Big Ten mounts as Michigan lawmaker questions $2.4B private equity deal

By: Jay Davis

• A Michigan Congresswoman has joined those questioning whether a proposed $2.4 billion deal with a California-based investment fund is good for the Big Ten.
• U.S. Rep. Haley Stevens on Tuesday sent a letter to Big Ten Commissioner Tony Pettiti saying the league’s reported proposal to sell a 10% stake of its media rights to the University of California’s investment arm risks putting profits ahead of student-athletes, college sports and university integrity.
• Stevens, D-Birmingham, in the letter criticized the proposal, calling it the latest step in a troubling pattern of corporate influence overwhelming college sports and leading to nonsensical conference realignment.
• “College sports are a uniquely American tradition that have provided valuable experience for generations of college athletes, students, and fans. Nowhere is that more true than in the Big Ten,” Stevens said in the letter.
• “As policymakers, we have a responsibility to ensure that the integrity of college sports, the Big Ten, and its member universities is preserved for future generations, not sacrificed for short-term financial gain.”
• Stevens in her letter demanded answers from Pettiti by Dec. 12 on three questions related to how the Big Ten would protect the independence and internal governance of its member schools from private equity influence; how the league would safeguard non-revenue and Title IX athletic programs in a TV revenue-driven environment; and how leadership would ensure that the financial interests of UC Investments or other potential PE investors do not supersede the public-serving mission of Big Ten schools.

WLNS:  University of Michigan ‘committed’ to Big Ten despite private equity deal

By Brad LaPlante

• The University of Michigan governing board declared its opposition to the possibility of giving up a stake in the Big Ten for $2.4 billion in private investment.
• U.S. Rep. Haley Stevens (D-Birmingham) said she sent a letter to Big Ten Commissioner Tony Pettiti this week, saying, “The influence of extremely wealthy, non-university interests has already created significant problems in college sports.”
• “College sports are a uniquely American tradition that have provided valuable experience for generations of college athletes, students, and fans,” Stevens wrote.
• “Nowhere is that more true than in the Big Ten. As policymakers, we have a responsibility to ensure that the integrity of college sports, the Big Ten, and its member universities is preserved for future generations, not sacrificed for short-term financial gain.”

###

Source: United States House of Representatives – Reprepsentative Kathy Castor (FL14)

WASHINGTON, D.C.  – Today, U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL-14) released the following statement on House Republicans’ weakened child online safety legislation:

“Children and teenagers deserve safe online spaces that are free from manipulation and harm.  Last Congress, I was proud to co-lead bipartisan KOSA and COPPA 2.0 bills in the House. I was encouraged by the Senate’s reintroduction of the strong bipartisan versions of these bills this year as well. Unfortunately, House Republicans are offering weak, ineffectual versions of COPPA 2.0 and KOSA that would diminish protections for children online.

“KOSA is intended to give young people and parents meaningful content-neutral tools and transparency to keep young people safe online, while holding Big Tech accountable for addictive design features and predatory algorithms that push harmful and inappropriate content to our kids. The House version fails to do either. COPPA 2.0 should modernize and strengthen privacy protections for kids and teens in the digital age and not allow Big Tech companies and online predators to exploit America’s children. The House version of COPPA 2.0 is also riddled with loopholes that fail to protect kids and allow tech companies to avoid accountability.

“House Republicans need to strengthen the bills to protect kids in the modern age and to gain bipartisan support. I encourage House Republicans to spend more time listening to families who support a strong federal law and less time meeting with Big Tech executives who value profits over kids’ best interests.”