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

Ahead of Termination Deadline, Judge Delays Trump Attempt to End Protections for 350,000 Haitian Nationals

Pressley Continues to Press for TPS Extension through Discharge Petition

Field Hearing Footage

WASHINGTON – Today, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley, Co-Chair of the House Haiti Caucus, applauded a federal judge’s ruling to temporarily block Trump’s move to terminate Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haitians. Ending TPS for Haitians wouldleave over 350,000 Haitian nationals at risk of deportation, many of whom reside in the Massachusetts 7^th congressional district.

Additionally, Rep. Pressley continues to push for a long-term extension for TPS for Haitians. Last month, Rep. Pressley announced a discharge petition that could compel the House vote on a bill to require the Trump Administration to extend TPS for Haiti for three years. The discharge petition continues to gain support and will need 218 signatures in the House to move forward.

“This ruling will be life changing for hundreds of thousands of Haitian nationals in the U.S., many of whom call the Massachusetts 7^th and the Commonwealth home,” said Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley. “The judge’s rejection of Trump’s TPS termination attempt makes plain: it is inhumane, deadly, and unlawful to deport people to a country experiencing political, economic, and humanitarian crises. This marks an essential step in defending Haitian families, but we won’t stop fighting for extended protections—my discharge petition would do just that, and we must move it forward without delay. Our Haitian neighbors are integral members of our communities, and they deserve safe homes here.”

Last month in Boston, Congresswoman Pressley and Senator Ed Markey (D-MA) held a field hearing on the importance of extending Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haiti. Footage from the hearing is available here and photos here.

Rep. Pressley also organized a press conference in D.C. last month to sound the alarm on the harm of terminating TPS for Haiti on seniors and the U.S. care economy.

As Representative for the Massachusetts 7th Congressional District, Congresswoman Pressley serves as Co-Chair for the House Haiti Caucus and represents one of the largest Haitian diaspora communities in the country.

• On June 28, 2025, Rep. Pressley condemned the Trump Administration’s abominable termination of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haiti.
• On June 5, 2025, Rep. Pressley and Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09) condemned Donald Trump’s executive order that bans citizens of 12 countries, including Haiti, from traveling to the United States, and places partial restrictions on citizens of seven more nations.
• On March 18, 2025, Rep. Pressley, Congresswoman Yvette Clarke (NY-09), and Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) led 62 of their colleagues in the House and 23 of their colleagues in the Senate in a letter to Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem demanding the Trump Administration redesignate and extend Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haiti, which the administration recently canceled on questionable legal authority:
• On February 20, 2025, Rep. Pressley and her Haiti Caucus Co-Chairs issued a statement condemning the Trump Administration’s decision to end Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haiti.
• On November 14, 2024, Rep. Pressley and her Haiti Caucus Co-Chairs issued a statement condemning violence in Haiti and calling on the Biden Administration to halt all deportations to Haiti.
• On September 25, 2024, Rep. Pressley and her Haiti Caucus Co-Chairs issued a statement condemning the false and dangerous lies about Haitian, Latino, and Asian immigrants.
• On September 20, 2024, Rep. Pressley and her Haiti Caucus Co-Chairs joined colleagues and advocates at a press conference to stand in solidarity with Haitian immigrants in Springfield, Ohio and across America, and to demand accountability for the harmful and false narratives perpetuated by Republicans.
• On June 28, 2024, Rep. Pressley issued a statement applauding the Biden-Harris Administration’s extension and redesignation of Haiti for Temporary Protected Status (TPS). 
• On April 23, 2024, Rep. Pressley, alongside Co-Chairs Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09) and Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), led a group of 50 lawmakers urging the Biden Administration to redesignate Haiti for Temporary Protected Status (TPS), pause on deportations back to Haiti, extend humanitarian parole to any Haitians currently detained in Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s detention centers, end detention of Haitian migrants intercepted at sea, and provide additional humanitarian assistance for Haiti.
• On April 18, 2024, Rep. Pressley and Haiti Caucus Co-Chairs led a letter to House Ways and Means Committee leadership emphasizing support for the early renewal of the Haitian Hemispheric Opportunity through Partnership Encouragement (HOPE) and the Haiti Economic Lift Program (HELP) Acts, commonly known as HOPE/HELP. 
• On April 12, 2024, Rep. Pressley joined Haitian-led activists, organizations, and a directly impacted person in Haiti for a press call urging federal action to address the worsening humanitarian crisis in Haiti.
• On March 27, 2024, Rep. Pressley joined Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and her colleagues on the Massachusetts congressional delegation in urging the Biden Administration to expedite visa processing for Haitians, particularly  for relatives of U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents.
• On March 18, Rep. Pressley, Senator Markey, and the House Haiti Caucus led 67 lawmakers on a letter urging the Biden Administration to extend TPS for Haiti and halt deportations.
• On March 12, 2024, Rep. Pressley and Haiti Caucus Co-Chairs Reps. Cherfilus McCormick and Yvette Clarke issued a statement on the resignation of Haitian Prime Minister Ariel Henry.
• On March 6, 2024, Rep. Pressley issued a statement on the recent jailbreak and State of Emergency in Haiti.
• On December 8, 2023, Rep. Pressley and Congresswoman Yvette Clarke urged the U.S. Department of State to withdraw U.S. support for an armed foreign intervention in Haiti and encourage negotiations for a Haitian-led democratic political transition.
• On December 6, 2022, Rep. Pressley issued a statement applauding the Biden Administration’s extension and re-designation of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haiti.
• On December 1, 2022, Rep. Pressley, Rep. Cori Bush, and Rep. Mondaire Jones led 14 of their colleagues on a letter to Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas urging the Department to extend and redesignate Haiti for Temporary Protected Status (TPS).
• In September 2022, Rep. Pressley and Rep. Velázquez led 54 of their colleagues on a letter calling on the Biden Administration to immediately halt deportations to Haiti and provide humanitarian parole protections for those seeking asylum. The lawmakers’ letter followed the Administration’s resumption of deportation flights to Haiti as thousands of Haitian migrants continue to await an opportunity to make an asylum claim at the border. 
• In September 2022, Rep. Pressley joined her colleagues on the House Oversight Committee in demanding answers regarding the inhumane treatment of migrants in Del Rio, Texas, by Border Patrol agents on horseback and pushing to Biden Administration to end the ongoing use and weaponization of Title 42.
• On August 17, 2022, Rep. Pressley, along with Haiti Caucus Co-Chairs Reps. Val Demings, Yvette Clarke, and Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), called on President Biden to appoint a new Special Envoy to Haiti, a position that has remained unfilled since September 2021.
• On July 7, 2022, Rep. Pressley and Haiti Caucus Co-Chairs Reps. Andy Levin (MI-09), Val Demings (FL-10) and Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09) released a statement marking the one-year anniversary of the assassination of Haitian President Jovenel Moïse.
• On May 31, 2022, Rep. Pressley and Reverend Dieufort Fleurissaint, chair of Haitian Americans United, published an op-ed in the Bay State Banner in which they called on the Biden administration to withdraw support for de facto ruler of Haiti, Ariel Henry, and instead support an inclusive, civil society-led process to restore stability and democracy on the island. 
• In April 2022, she joined her colleagues at a press conference reaffirming her support for President Biden’s decision to end Title 42. Full video of her remarks at the press conference is available here. Rep. Pressley applauded the Biden Administration’s end of Title 42 in a statement in April 2022.
• On May 26, 2022, Rep. Pressley, along with with Representatives Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Andy Levin (MI-09), Jim McGovern (MA-02), and Frederica Wilson (FL-24), led a letter to United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Administrator Power urging her to act to ensure food security in Haiti.
• On March 16, 2022, Rep. Pressley and Rep. Mondaire Jones called on Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Director Rochelle Walensky to fully end Title 42, cease deportations of people to Haiti and affirm their legal and fundamental human right to seek asylum.
• On February 16, 2022, Rep. Pressley joined Congresswoman Cori Bush (MO-01), Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), and 100 House and Senate colleagues in urging President Biden to reverse inhumane immigration policies – such as Title 42, originally introduced under the Trump Administration – that continue to disproportionately harm Black migrants.
• On February 14, 2022, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), alongside Representatives Judy Chu (CA-27) and Nydia Velázquez (NY-07), led 33 other House Democrats on a letter to Rochelle Walensky, Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, demanding answers about the agency’s justification for treating asylum seekers as a unique public health threat, how these expulsions are being coordinated, how asylum seekers being returned to dangerous situations are being cared for, and more.
• On February 14, 2022, Reps. Pressley, Judy Chu (CA-27), and Nydia Velázquez (NY-07) led 33 other House Democrats on a letter to CDC Director Walensky demanding answers about the agency’s justification for treating asylum seekers as a unique public health threat, how these expulsions are being coordinated, how asylum seekers being returned to dangerous situations are being cared for, and more. Days later, Rep. Pressley once again called on the Biden Administration to reverse the Title 42 Order and other anti-Black immigration policies.
• On January 12, 2022, Rep. Pressley and Haiti Caucus Co-Chairs Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09), Andy Levin (MI-09), and Val Demings (FL-10) released a statement on the 12-year anniversary of the catastrophic 7.0 magnitude earthquake that struck Haiti on January 12, 2010.
• On November 21, 2021, Rep. Pressley and Senator Elizabeth Warren led the Massachusetts congressional delegation on a letter to the Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) calling on them to coordinate with the government agencies of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts to assist newly arrived families from Haiti. 
• On October 18, 2021, Rep. Pressley, and Haiti Caucus Co-Chairs Reps. Val Demings (FL-10), Yvette Clarke (NY-09), and Andy Levin (MI-09) issued a statement following the kidnapping of American and Canadian missionaries in Haiti.
• On October 18, 2021, Rep. Pressley issued a statement on the civil rights complaint filed by Haitian families demanding a federal investigation into the heinous actions perpetrated by federal officials at the border.
• On October 22, 2021, Rep. Pressley, along with Oversight Chairwoman Carolyn B. Maloney, Subcommittee on Civil Rights and Civil Liberties Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-MD), and Reps. Rashida Tlaib (MI-13), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), and Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL), sent a letter to Troy A. Miller, the Acting Administrator of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), demanding a briefing and answers regarding press reports of the inhumane treatment of migrants in Del Rio, Texas, by Border Patrol agents on horseback. 
• On September 17, 2021, Rep. Pressley and Congresswoman Nydia M. Velázquez (NY-07) led 52 of their colleagues calling on the Biden Administration to immediately halt deportations to Haiti and take urgent action to address the concerns of the Haitian Diaspora after a 7.2 magnitude earthquake devastated Haiti.
• On August 14, 2021, Rep. Pressley Yvette Clarke (NY-09), Andy Levin (MI-09) and Val Demings (FL-10) and Mondaire Jones (NY-17) released a statement regarding the recent earthquake in Haiti.
• On July 14, 2021, Rep. Pressley and Haiti Caucus Co-Chairs Reps. Yvette Clarke (NY-09), Andy Levin (MI-09) and Val Demings (FL-10) sent a letter to U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas calling on him to take a series of steps to support the Haitian diaspora amid ongoing political turmoil in Haiti.
• In July 2021, the Reps. Pressley, Clarke, Demings and Levin issued a statement condemning the assassination of President Moïse and calling for swift and decisive action to bring political stability and peace to Haiti and the Haitian people.
• In May 2021, on Haitian Flag Day, Reps. Pressley, Levin, Clarke and Demings announced the formation of the House Haiti Caucus, a Congressional caucus dedicated to pursuing a just foreign policy that puts the needs and aspirations of the Haitian people first.

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

WASHINGTON — As Illinois farmers stand ready to deliver cleaner, more affordable fuel, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi called on President Trump to end his administration’s obstruction of year-round access to E15 and allow lower-cost ethanol blends to reach consumers:

“Illinois farmers are ready to deliver cleaner, more affordable fuel—but the Trump Administration and its allies keep standing in the way. Guaranteeing year-round access to E15 would give corn growers the certainty they need, strengthen America’s energy security, and help families save at the pump. At a time when families are feeling squeezed by higher prices, this is a straightforward way to lower costs at the pump and put affordability first.”

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky (9th District of Illinois)

WASHINGTON — Today, U.S. Representatives Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), Jason Crow (CO-06), and Mike Quigley (IL-05) reintroduced the ALS Better Care Act, bipartisan legislation to expand access to specialized, multidisciplinary care for people living with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) at no cost by creating a supplemental, facility-based payment in Medicare for ALS-related services. U.S. Senators Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) and Chris Coons (D-DE) introduced companion legislation in the Senate.

“Every year, thousands of people in the United States are newly diagnosed with ALS, with an average of 15 new cases each day. I watched as one of my dear friends suffered from this debilitating disease with little hope. While significant challenges remain, meaningful progress is being made in ALS clinical care,” said Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky. “Specialized, multidisciplinary care has been shown to extend survival and improve quality of life for people with ALS. Our bill, the ALS Better Care Act, provides hope and ensures clinics can continue delivering lifesaving, comprehensive care to ALS patients.”

“For people living with ALS, time is precious—and the health care system should never waste it. As Co-Chair of the ALS Caucus, I’ve spent years working alongside patients, families, clinicians, and advocates to strengthen access to the coordinated care ALS demands,” said Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick. “Multidisciplinary care has been proven to extend life and improve quality of life, yet outdated Medicare rules continue to stand in the way. This two-party solution removes those barriers by fully covering team-based care, supporting telehealth, and allowing families to focus on what matters most: their health and their time together.”

“ALS is a brutal disease. It’s already painful enough for those with the disease and their loved ones, without having to worry about getting care,” said Congressman Jason Crow, Co-Chair of the ALS Caucus. “As co-chair of the ALS Caucus, I’ll always support efforts to cut down on red tape and ensure folks living with ALS have access to the high-quality, affordable health care they need.”

“ALS is a devastating disease, and people living with it deserve care that matches its complexity,” said Congressman Mike Quigley. “Multidisciplinary care is proven to improve patients’ health outcomes and quality of life, which is why I’m proud to join my colleagues in introducing the ALS Better Care Act—to bring comprehensive ALS care to patients nationwide.”

“ALS remains one of the most indiscriminate and devastating diseases. This legislation will provide critical investments in research and care to improve the quality of life for those living with ALS,” said Senator Lisa Murkowski. “We must come together as legislators, healthcare providers, researchers, advocates, and caretakers to use every last resource at our disposal to show up for those affected by this ruthless disease.”

“To act on ALS is to address cruelty,” said Senator Chris Coons. “To know people living with ALS and to know those caring for them is to know hope, determination, and passion in the face of that cruelty. That’s why I’m proud to introduce the bipartisan ALS Better Care Act to help fight one of the most devastating diseases our friends and neighbors face. Together we can keep working to end this cruel disease.”

The ALS Better Care Act would strengthen Medicare coverage for multidisciplinary ALS clinic services, ensuring patients can receive coordinated care from neurologists, respiratory therapists, physical and occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, social workers, and other specialists in a single, integrated setting.

Leading ALS advocacy organizations, clinicians, patients, and caregivers support the legislation, emphasizing that access to multidisciplinary care is essential to improving outcomes and quality of life for people living with ALS.

“People with ALS live longer and more fulfilling lives when they have access to multidisciplinary ALS care,” said Laura Freveletti, CEO of the Les Turner ALS Foundation. “ALS is a challenging and complex disease, but we know how to treat it: at clinics that combine the expertise of occupational, respiratory, and physical therapists, along with other health care professionals. The ALS Better Care Act is a critical step forward that will reduce wait times and provide relief for people living with ALS and care teams everywhere.”

“The Muscular Dystrophy Association is proud to endorse the ALS Better Care Act. This legislation represents a critical step toward removing financial and structural barriers that prevent people living with ALS from accessing optimal care. If enacted, the bill would reduce the need for frequent travel, support more coordinated and comprehensive care both in and outside the clinic, and expand opportunities for research participation. Together, these improvements would significantly strengthen access to the high-quality care the ALS community deserves,” said Sharon Hesterlee, PhD, President and CEO, Muscular Dystrophy Association.

“Multidisciplinary care has been proven to help people with ALS live longer and with a better quality of life. Every person living with ALS deserves access to this level of care, which our nationwide network of certified multidisciplinary clinics provides,” said Calaneet Balas, CEO of the ALS Association. “We are grateful to Senators Coons and Murkowski and Representatives Schakowsky and Fitzpatrick for championing the ALS Better Care Act, which supports the needs of people living with ALS, their families, and the professionals who care for them.”

“ALS is a complex and demanding disease. For many people, coordinated clinic-based care is one of the few evidence-based approaches that can extend survival and improve quality of life. Unfortunately, inadequate Medicare reimbursement makes it difficult for multidisciplinary ALS clinics to sustain the comprehensive services patients need,” said Jerry Dawson, President and CEO of ALS United. “The ALS Better Care Act addresses this urgent gap by providing supplemental Medicare support so clinics can continue delivering the collaborative care patients depend on and expand access for families who may live hours from the nearest clinic. We commend Senators Coons and Murkowski and Representatives Schakowsky and Fitzpatrick for their leadership on the ALS Better Care Act and their commitment to improving care for people living with ALS and their families.”

ALS is a progressive and fatal neurodegenerative disease that affects thousands of Americans each year. Studies have shown that patients receiving coordinated, multidisciplinary care live longer and experience improved quality of life.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Joe Neguse (D-Co 2)

Lafayette, CO — Yesterday, Colorado Congressman Joe Neguse joined Senators John Hickenlooper and Michael Bennet, as well as the Democratic members of Colorado’s House delegation in condemning alarming reports that families in Eagle County, Colorado, found “death cards” left in the cars of family members taken by ICE agents. These specific cards had the address and phone number of the Aurora ICE detention facility printed on them. The lawmakers called on the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Office of Inspector General to open an investigation and requested a full DHS briefing on the incidents and steps taken to prevent further intimidation of Latino communities.

“As the son of immigrants and the father of two young children, I am horrified by the abuses being committed by the Trump administration — from the streets of Minneapolis to right here in Eagle County. These outrageous, aggressive intimidation tactics are meant to stoke fear among our neighbors, and it is immoral and wrong. This administration must be held accountable, and we cannot allow this to continue unchecked,” said Congressman Joe Neguse.

Congressman Neguse has expressed extreme outrage regarding the Trump administration’s cruel and violent immigration policies. He joined Colorado’s democratic delegation in demanding an investigation into the murder of Alex Pretti, calling the shooting of the 37-year-old Minnesotan by an ICE agent, and the prior shooting of Renee Good, “horrific” and “abhorrent.” 

Neguse also sued the Trump administration for blocking Members of Congress from unannounced oversight visits to federal immigration detention facilities. Yesterday, a federal court granted a temporary restraining order (TRO) in the case — Neguse et al. v. ICE et al. — reaffirming Congress’s constitutional authority to investigate detention conditions and ensure accountability.

Full text of the letter is available HERE and below. 

Dear Secretary Noem,

We are writing regarding disturbing reports about U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activities in Eagle County, Colorado. Reportedly, ICE agents in unmarked vehicles with attached sirens conducted imitation traffic stops and ultimately detained ten Latino individuals who are now being held at the Aurora Detention Facility. Additionally, according to multiple news reports and local community organizations, family members of the detained individuals found ace of spades cards inside multiple abandoned vehicles, printed with the address of the Aurora Detention Facility:

We are deeply concerned by the allegations that the federal agents were utilizing sirens to falsely act as local law enforcement. This behavior leads individuals to believe they are lawfully required to pull over for a traffic violation when in reality, the federal government has no authority over local or state traffic regulations. Federal agents acting in disguise as local law enforcement is misconduct and should be treated as such.

Moreover, the ace of spades card has long been known as the “death card” and has been used by white supremacist groups to inspire fear and threaten physical violence.  It is unacceptable and dangerous for federal law enforcement to use this symbol to intimidate Latino communities. This behavior undermines public trust in law enforcement, raises serious civil rights concerns, and falls far short of the professional standards expected of federal agents. 

We appreciate that Department of Homeland Security (DHS) condemned this conduct and directed the DHS Office of Professional Responsibility to investigate the incident. To ensure that ICE conducts operations in a professional manner that does not include racially-motivated intimidation tactics that undermine public trust in law enforcement, we request: 

1. A formal and detailed briefing on ICE activities in Eagle County

2. A written report detailing the findings of the ongoing DHS investigation into the incident

3. An independent investigation by the DHS Office of Inspector General into the activities of the Denver Field Office, which oversees ICE activity in Eagle County

4. Written confirmation of any disciplinary or corrective actions taken 

Thank you for your attention to this important matter. We respectfully request a response by February 13.

Sincerely,

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Robert Aderholt (AL-04)

WASHINGTON — Congressman Robert Aderholt (AL-04) is pleased to announce the launch of the 2026 Fourth Congressional District Art Competition, inviting all high school students in Alabama’s Fourth District to showcase their artistic talent. The category winners will all receive scholarship offers to Wallace State Community College and the overall winner, the “Best of Show,” will also have their piece displayed in the United States Capitol.

Congressman Aderholt pictured with the 2025 “Best of Show” winner Natalie Jones of DAR High School, along with her art teacher Zan Edmonds.

Now in its 45th year, the Congressional Art Competition is a nationwide visual arts contest sponsored by the U.S. House of Representatives and the Congressional Institute. The program celebrates the creativity of high school artists across the country and gives young creators a unique opportunity to have their artwork displayed in one of the nation’s most iconic buildings.

“The Congressional Art Competition gives students across the 4th District a chance to share their creativity with the world,” said Congressman Aderholt. “I am continually inspired by the imagination and dedication these young artists bring to their work. I encourage all eligible students to participate and show the extraordinary talent we have in our district.”

Competition Details
• Eligibility: Open to all high school students, grades 9-12, residing in Alabama’s Fourth Congressional District, including homeschooled students.
• Submission Deadline: April 8 by 4:00 p.m. to Congressman Aderholt’s district offices.
• Guidelines: Students may submit original artwork in various media including painting, drawing, collage, prints, mixed media, photography, and computer-generated art.
• Judging: A panel of local art professionals will review all entries and select the winning piece based on creativity, skill, and originality.

The artist selected as “Best of Show” will have their work displayed in the U.S. Capitol for approximately one year, where it will be viewed by Members of Congress, staff, and visitors from across the nation and around the world. Additionally, the winning student will be honored at a reception in Washington, D.C. 

All category winners will receive a scholarship offer to Wallace State that may be used for any course of study offered at the college.

About the Congressional Art Competition
Since its inception in 1982, the Congressional Art Competition has encouraged more than 650,000 students to participate, fostering artistic talent and civic engagement among young Americans.

For official rules, entry forms, and submission details, please contact Congressman Aderholt’s office or visit: https://aderholt.house.gov/2026-art-competition

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

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Representatives Doris Matsui (D-CA-07), Nicole Malliotakis (R-NY-11), Maxine Dexter (D-OR-03), Vern Buchanan (R-FL-16), Sarah Elfreth (D-MD-03), and Buddy Carter (R-GA-01) introduced the Whale CHARTS Act, bipartisan legislation that will direct the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to improve whale habitat maps and develop near-real time whale detection technologies to help prevent deadly collisions.

The Whale CHARTS Act is backed by a notable coalition of recreational fishing, boating, and conservation organizations aligned behind a shared goal: protect whales from vessel collisions using better data and tools, while ensuring mariners can keep doing their jobs safely and other ocean users can continue to enjoy recreation opportunities.

“For too long, whale protection has been treated like a zero-sum fight. This bill is about choosing a better way,” said Congresswoman Matsui. “With clearer whale maps and near real time detection tools, we can help captains avoid whales before a collision happens, protect endangered species, and keep fishermen on the water doing the work they love. That kind of progress only happens when people who care deeply about the ocean, from maritime workers to conservation advocates, come together to advance practical solutions.”

“Current predictive maps don’t give us a good picture of where whales are feeding and calving. That puts both these magnificent animals and boaters at risk of dangerous collisions,” said Congresswoman Malliotakis. “This legislation directs NOAA to conduct more research and mapping so we can protect our whales and keep our mariners and everyone who loves our waters safe.”

“Knowing where whales are in our waters is key to protecting whales and boaters alike,” said Congresswoman Dexter. “The Whale CHARTS Act will deploy the best available technology to improve whale tracking, helping prevent deadly collisions and protect these species for generations to come. This is a win-win policy for whales as well as for the people who work and recreate in marine waters.”  

“With a thriving global maritime industry, it’s critical that vessels can travel alongside whale populations without risking dangerous collisions,” said Congressman Buchanan. “The Whale CHARTS Act strengthens NOAA’s ability to map baleen and sperm whale habitats using better data and modern technology, protecting marine wildlife while keeping recreational and commercial boaters safe. As Co-Chair of the Animal Protection Caucus, I will always fight for solutions that safeguard animals without disrupting mariners and the public who rely on and enjoy our oceans.”

“Having dedicated a majority of my career to preserving the Chesapeake Bay, I know firsthand how crucial accurate data is to ensuring our work reflects a thoughtful balance between recreation and conservation,” said Congresswoman Elfreth. “I’m proud to co-sponsor the bipartisan Whale CHARTS Act to not only support conservation efforts for our critical marine mammals, but make our waters safer for our wildlife and our watermen.”

“The Whale CHARTS Act will protect whales and boaters alike by deploying cutting-edge technologies to better track and monitor migratory whales,” said Congressman Carter. “I am proud to co-lead this bipartisan effort to prevent vessel strikes and better understand America’s marine wildlife.”

The Whale CHARTS Act directs NOAA, in consultation with the Marine Mammal Commission and non-federal stakeholders, to develop high-resolution maps showing where migratory whales are located today and where they may be in the future, as well as conduct surveys for understudied whale populations. It encourages NOAA to use modern data sources, including passive acoustic monitoring and satellite-based detection, to improve map accuracy. NOAA must make these maps readily available in formats commercial and recreational mariners can use onboard to help reduce collisions. 

The bill also establishes a grant program to fund tools that will improve the near-real time detection of migratory whales, reducing deadly collisions and other harmful interactions between ocean users and these iconic species. Finally, NOAA is required to publicly report on its mapping and surveying efforts, and on the effectiveness of the projects funded by the grant program.

Congresswoman Matsui is co-chair of the Sustainable Energy and Environment Coalition (SEEC), and co-chairs the SEEC Lands, Waters, and Nature Task Force. She previously led efforts to improve whale habitat mapping through NOAA’s annual budget.

Full legislative text can be found here.

The following organizations have endorsed the Whale CHARTS Act: American Sportfishing Association, Animal Welfare Institute, Center for Sportfishing Policy, Coastal Conservation Association, Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation, Defenders of Wildlife, Endangered Species Coalition, Environmental Investigation Agency, Guy Harvey Foundation, International Fund for Animal Welfare, International Game Fish Association, International Marine Mammal Project of Earth Island Institute, Marine Retailers Association of the Americas, National Marine Manufacturers Association, NRDC, Oceana, Ocean Conservancy, South Carolina Boating and Fishing Alliance, Sportfishing Association of California, Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership. Their statements can be found below. 

“Ship strikes remain a leading, preventable cause of whale deaths off U.S. coasts. Better data can help prevent ship strikes before they happen,” said Taylor Mann, Federal Policy Manager, Oceana. “With a growing ocean-based economy and more vessel traffic at sea, the Whale CHARTS Act is an important tool that will help us better understand and predict where whales are most likely to be, even as those patterns shift in a changing ocean. By expanding access to best available science, this act will support safer navigation and help maritime industries and whales coexist. Oceana applauds this bipartisan step to protect one of the ocean’s most iconic creatures.” 

“Recreational anglers are among our nation’s leading conservationists, with a deep and longstanding commitment to the health of marine ecosystems,” said Glenn Hughes, President and CEO of the American Sportfishing Association. “The Whale CHARTS Act, led by Representatives Matsui, Malliotakis, Dexter, Buchanan, Carter and Elfreth, will improve our understanding of whale ranges and movements, ensuring managers have sound data to better conserve these species while also helping to minimize vessel strikes. Better data leads to better outcomes for whales, ocean users, and the marine environment we all depend on.”

“The Whale CHARTS Act is smart legislation that recognizes conservation and access can advance together,” said Jeff Angers, president of the Center for Sportfishing Policy. “By investing in better data and real-world detection technologies, this bill takes a practical, science-based approach to reducing vessel strike risk while keeping America’s public waters accessible for responsible recreation.”

“Migratory whales and other large cetaceans have long been understudied despite being some of the most vulnerable marine mammals to threats caused by humans,” said Kathleen Collins, IFAW Senior Marine Campaign Manager. “IFAW has worked tirelessly in the pursuit of conserving many of these species, and we’re grateful to Representatives Matsui, Malliotakis, Dexter, Buchanan, Carter and Elfreth for recognizing the plight of these animals and championing the Whale CHARTS Act.”

“Animal Welfare Institute welcomes the reintroduction of the Whale CHARTS Act, a critically needed effort to strengthen our understanding of whale habitat use and support evidence-based conservation,” said Georgia Hancock Director & Senior Attorney of the Marine Wildlife Program. “Too many whale populations, including baleen and sperm whales, remain imperiled by human impacts, especially as climate-driven changes alter where they live and feed. This legislation would help ensure NOAA has the resources to produce high-resolution distribution and predictive maps essential for protecting whales and their vital habitat.”

“Representative Doris Matsui’s Whale CHARTS Act is an excellent way to protect whales and avoid conflicts with shipping and fishing interests,” said David Phillips, Executive Director, International Marine Mammal Project, Earth Island Institute. “Nobody wants to see dead whales. Shipping companies and fishermen alike depend on a variety of information provided by the federal and state governments and, often, nonprofit organizations about where whales are located and can be avoided. But identifying where the whales are, and what alternatives are available, costs money, so Rep. Matsui has come up with legislation to fill funding gaps. The International Marine Mammal Project of Earth Island Institute supports the Whale CHARTS Act to enhance protections for our great whales.”

“More accurate information in our decision-making related to ocean resources will reduce uncertainty,” said Ken Franke, President of the Sportfishing Association of California. “The Whale CHARTS Act seeks to fill that data gap by improving our understanding of whale locations to help avoid conflicts.”

“We are very grateful for the leadership of Representatives Matsui, Malliotakis, Dexter, Buchanan, Elfreth and Carter in introducing the Whale CHARTS Act,” said Chris Horton, senior director of fisheries policy for the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation. “The angling community cares deeply about the conservation of our marine environment, not just the fish we pursue. This bill offers genuine, effective solutions for preventing vessel strikes and ensuring the safety of both whales and those of us who spend time on the water.”

“We are grateful for Representatives Matsui, Malliotakis, Dexter, Buchanan, Elfreth and Carter for supporting a science-based approach to helping anglers and recreational boaters avoid whale strikes while allowing access to the waters that are so important for fishing and coastal economies,” said Joel Pedersen, CEO of the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership. “Recreational anglers are conservationists and that includes caring about populations of marine mammals, birds and fish beyond just the ones we enjoy catching. By using technology, sharing information and advancing the science needed to help anglers and boaters avoid whales, we can ensure ample, consistent access to public waters for fishing while protecting whales and all marine mammals.”

“The Whale CHARTS Act would fund important mapping improvements and detection technologies in whale habitats,” said Daniel Moss, senior government relations representative for Defenders of Wildlife. “Vessel strikes are one of the primary killers of whales, including critically endangered species. They are also dangerous for mariners, particularly in smaller boats. While speed restrictions are the only proven mechanism to reduce vessel strike risk, this bill will advance research that may ultimately make our waters safer for whales and mariners. We salute Rep. Matsui for her leadership in promoting whale conservation and mariner safety.”

“Critically endangered baleen and toothed whales continually experience every day the constant barrage of anthropogenic threats to their ability to find food and reproduce”, said CT Harry, Senior Ocean Policy Analyst with Environmental Investigation Agency. “Science-based legislation like the WHALE CHARTS Act is critically important for understanding how these highly charismatic and unique species are having to change their migratory routes to locate new feeding and breeding areas in order to survive”.

“America’s whales are facing a world of challenges right now, from vessel strikes to industrial development to an ocean that is changing all around them,” said Michael Jasny, Director of Marine Mammal Protection at NRDC. ” The bipartisan Whale CHARTS Act supports the science we need to save the species we love.”

“NMMA is grateful to Rep. Matsui and Rep. Malliotakis for introducing the Whale CHARTS Act that improves NOAA’s monitoring and mitigation program and balances protecting access for recreational boaters and the habitats of marine mammals,” said Robyn Boerstling, NMMA Senior Vice President of Government Relations and Chief Advocacy Officer. “The recreational boating industry deeply cares about protecting marine life and supports and encourages efforts by the government to partner with industry experts to further develop whale detection technologies.”

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Adrian Smith (R-NE)

Today, Congressman Adrian Smith (NE-03), co-chair of the Congressional Biofuels Caucus and a senior member of the Ways and Means Committee, issued the following statement praising the Treasury Department’s release of official guidance for the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Tax Credit:

“During reconciliation, I fought to extend and strengthen the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Tax Credit to empower our biofuel producers and prioritize innovation over arbitrary climate standards. I am grateful for this administration’s action in releasing timely official guidance to ensure that America’s producers can fully utilize the credit this tax year and in years ahead. Moving forward, I will continue to support policies that expand biofuels markets and unleash more affordable, homegrown American energy.”

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Al Green (TX-9)

(Washington DC)—On Monday, December 1, 2025, the U.S. House of Representatives passed Congressman Al Green’s H.R. 3716 – the Systemic Risk Authority Transparency Act. This bill requires banking regulators and the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to issue timely reports to Congress after a bank failure leading to a systemic risk determination by the Treasury Department, detailing what went wrong and why regulators took the actions they did. It mandates two detailed reports from each relevant entity to ensure transparency and help Congress improve the safety and soundness of similar institutions. 

You can access and listen to Congressman Al Green’s speech on his official YouTube page or by clicking here. The floor speech highlighted is also accessible on various social media platforms, including Bluesky,Facebook,Instagram, and X (formerly known as Twitter).  

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Al Green (TX-9)

(Houston, TX) —Today, Thursday, January 29, 2026, Congressman Al Green held a press conference to address the seating of a new Member of Congress for Texas’s current 18th Congressional District, a seat that has been vacant for nearly a year, and to underscore the urgent need for the elected Member to be sworn in without delay amid a possible government shutdown. Congressman Green warned of the harmful impact continued delays would have on the district’s representation during the remainder of the 119th Congress, similar to what occurred with the delayed seating of Representative Adelita Grijalva. The letter is accessible by clicking here. The press conference took place via Facebook live stream.

Congressman Al Green stated, “The people of the 18th Congressional District have gone nearly a year without representation, and that must end as soon as possible. A government shutdown does not excuse delaying the swearing-in of a duly elected Member of Congress. Constituents deserve immediate representation, and House leadership has a clear responsibility to ensure the voters and voices of Texas’s 18th District are heard without further delay.”

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Al Green (TX-9)

(Houston, TX) —Today, Congressman Al Green will hold a press conference with live streaming, urging the immediate swearing-in of the winner of the 18th Congressional District Special Election amid a possible government shutdown. At the press conference, Congressman Green will share a letter with the public, sent to the Speaker of the House, Mike Johnson, addressing this issue. The press conference will take place via Facebook live stream at 1:00 p.m. CT.

Congressman Al Green stated, “The people of the 18th Congressional District have gone nearly a year without representation, and that must end as soon as possible. A government shutdown does not excuse delaying the swearing-in of a duly elected Member of Congress. Constituents deserve immediate representation, and House leadership has a clear responsibility to ensure the voices of the 18th District are heard without further delay.”

Click here to watch the Facebook Live Stream of the event.