MIL USHOR-2b Engine

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Salud Carbajal (CA-24)

This week, U.S. Representative Salud Carbajal (D-CA-24) was recognized by the International Propeller Club and received the Frank Courtenay “Salute to Congress” Award for championing legislation to support the American maritime industry. The Salute to Congress Award recognizes members of the U.S. Congress for their leadership and support of the American maritime industry.

“I am honored to receive this recognition from the International Propeller Club, an organization that understands the importance of investing in our maritime industry,” said Rep. Carbajal. “Throughout my time in Congress, I have been committed to protecting the Jones Act, revitalizing the U.S.-flagged fleet, and ensuring that our ports remain competitive. Moving forward, I am committed to bolstering the Jones Act, the Maritime Security Program, and cargo preference laws to revitalize the American maritime industry.”

Carbajal served as Chairman of the House Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee in the 117th Congress and has served as Ranking Member of the Subcommittee in the 118th and 119th Congresses. 

In 2020, Carbajal’s Small Passenger Vessel Safety Act was signed into law at the end of the 116th Congress as part of the Elijah E. Cummings Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2020. This bill closes loopholes to improve safety in small passenger vessels.

As Chairman of the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee, Carbajal’s Small Passenger Vessel Liability Fairness Act was signed into law in 2022. The bill updates antiquated liability laws so that victims and their families receive fair compensation in the wake of maritime accidents onboard small vessels. 

In addition, as Chairman of the House Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee, Rep. Salud Carbajal helped lead congressional efforts to address supply chain disruptions and strengthen oversight of the shipping industry to reduce everyday costs for all Americans. In 2022, Carbajal joined President Joe Biden at the White House for the signing of the bipartisan Ocean Shipping Reform Act into law.

Since FY22, Carbajal has led the bipartisan appropriations letter requesting robust funding for the Small Shipyard Grant Program. The program is designed to support small shipyard projects that make capital and related improvements; or provide training for workers in shipbuilding, ship repair, and associated industries.

Small shipyards are a critical component of U.S. maritime operations and economic security, employing more than 100,000 Americans and contributing tens of billions in gross domestic product.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Andy Harris (MD-01)

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Andy Harris, M.D. (MD-01), announced Angie Webb of Saints Peter and Paul High School as the winner of the First Congressional District of Maryland’s 2026 Congressional Art Competition. Her artwork, “Soaring Eagle,” was selected as this year’s winning submission and will be displayed in the halls of the United States Capitol for one year. Angie will also be honored at the annual Congressional Art Competition reception in Washington, D.C.

Statement from Congressman Harris:

“Congratulations to Angie Webb on winning the 2026 Congressional Art Competition. In recognition of this year’s theme celebrating the 250th anniversary of America, “Soaring Eagle” is a powerful piece that reflects the strength, freedom, and spirit of our nation through impressive artistic talent and patriotic imagery. I am proud to have Angie’s artwork represent Maryland’s First District in the halls of the United States Capitol, and I thank all of the students who participated in this year’s competition.”

For media inquiries, please contact Michella Carter at Michella.Carter@mail.house.gov

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Dan Newhouse (4th District of Washington)

Headline: Newhouse Legislation Honors Longtime Yakima Airport Employee

Press Release 
For Immediate Release: May 7, 2026
Contact: Juan Ayala, (202) 713-7750

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Dan Newhouse (WA-04) introduced legislation to name the Yakima Control Tower after Roy A. Rutherford, a decades-long employee at the Yakima Airport. 

“Roy Rutherford had a career spanning over four decades in the Yakima Airport control tower,” said Rep. Newhouse. “A Navy veteran, Roy began and ended his career at Yakima Air-Terminal-McAllister Field, ensuring the safety of the hundreds of thousands of pilots and passengers who took off and landed at Yakima. This legislation will recognize Roy’s tenure at YKM by renaming the air traffic control tower in his honor. I thank Roy for his years of service to the Yakima community and wish him the best in his retirement.”

Robert Davis, Air Traffic Manager at Yakima Air Terminal said, “Roy has served as an air traffic controller in the Yakima Control Tower since August 31, 1981. For more than four decades, he has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to aviation safety and operational excellence. His dedication to the facility and his colleagues is second to none. Nobody deserves this honor more than Roy, and we wholeheartedly support his recognition.”

Dave Ritchey, Serco Director of Aviation said, “Roy’s unwavering dedication to the YKM control tower, spanning over 44 years, is nothing short of remarkable. Beginning his air traffic control journey at YKM in 1981 with the FAA and later with Serco in 1997, Roy has consistently demonstrated professionalism, commitment, and passion for air traffic control and the Yakima community. Naming the tower the ‘Roy A. Rutherford Air Traffic Control Tower’ is a fitting tribute to someone whose legacy has shaped the safety and operations of YKM for decades. This recognition reflects not only Roy’s exceptional service but also the deep respect and admiration held by all who have worked alongside Roy.”

Ron Pierce, Serco Air Traffic Controller said, “I have known Roy for 20 plus years, he is one of the finest people you could every meet. Hope this gets the real consideration it deserves, he is more than deserving.” 

Full bill text can be found here. 

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

Know Your Immigration Rights

If you or a loved one encounter immigration enforcement officials, it is essential that you know your rights and have prepared your household for all possible outcomes.

Ask for a warrant: The Fourth Amendment of the Constitution protects you from unreasonable search and seizure. You do not have to open your door until you see a valid warrant to enter your home or search your belongings.

Your right to remain silent: The Fifth Amendment protects your right to remain silent and not incriminate yourself. You are not required to share any personal information such as your place of birth, immigration status or criminal history.

Always consult an attorney: You have a right to speak with an attorney. You do not have to sign anything or hand officials any documents without speaking to an attorney. Try to identify and consult one in advance.

The New York City Office of Civil Justice and the Mayor’s Office of Immigrant Affairs (MOIA) support a variety of free immigration legal services through local nonprofit legal organizations. To access these resources, dial 311 and say “Action NYC,” call the MOIA Immigration Legal Support Hotline at 800-354-0365 Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. or visit MOIA’s website.

Learn more here: KNOW YOUR IMMIGRATION RIGHTS  – Congressman Hakeem Jeffries

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

New facility manufactures aviation communication systems that help prevent midair collisions

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi Representing the 12th District of California

San Francisco – Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi issued the following statement marking eight years since President Trump withdrew from the Iran Nuclear Agreement:

“Eight years ago, Donald Trump followed through on a misguided and uninformed campaign promise by recklessly ripping up the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action—a landmark multilateral diplomatic agreement masterfully negotiated by President Obama that successfully strengthened global security and verifiably prevented Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon.

“Eight years after destroying that working agreement, Donald Trump has cost American lives by engulfing the region in the very conflict that serious diplomacy was meant to prevent. Even now, the President seeks concessions to end his war of choice that would leave the world less secure than under the very deal he dismantled.”

“Democrats have never had any illusions about the Iranian regime. We remain firmly committed to countering Iran’s support for terrorism, confronting its ballistic missile program and preventing it from obtaining a nuclear weapon. But the President’s reckless decisions are no substitute for serious statecraft.”

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

SCHENECTADY, NY — Congressman Paul D. Tonko held a reception last week at the Nott Memorial at Union College to announce the winners of the 2026 Congressional Art Competition for New York’s 20^th Congressional District. The winning artworks were chosen from among 42 student submissions representing 21 high schools across the Capital Region.

“Each year I am inspired anew by the incredible talent and creativity displayed by the students entering our Congressional Art Competition, and this year was no different,” Congressman Tonko said. “Last week, I had the honor of joining a group of remarkable local students to celebrate both their artistic skill and their dedication to the creative process. Art plays a vital role in our students’ education, giving them a powerful outlet to share their ideas, their talents, and their unique perspectives on the world. I’m thrilled to recognize this year’s gifted participants, and I’m incredibly grateful to the parents, teachers, and supporters who have helped guide and encourage them along the way.”

This year’s honorees are as follows:

·         Winner: Sofia Kennedy, Shaker High School, “Composed”

·         Runner-Up: Emma Schweitzer, Academy of the Holy Names, “1900s Breakfast”

·         Runner-Up: Sienna Stewart, Albany High School, “The Pink Room”

·         Runner-Up: May Nyein, The Doane Stuart School, “Eudora”

·         Honorable Mention: Anastazia Valachovic, Averill Park High School, “And Still They Laugh”

·         Honorable Mention: Avery Lobban, Bethlehem High School, “Bits and Pieces”

·         Honorable Mention: Lachlan Flores, Niskayuna High School, “United States of Amnesia”

“Congratulations to Sofia on her incredible winning piece,” Tonko continued, “and congratulations to all who participated in this year’s competition. Thank you all for sharing your talents with us!”

This year’s awardees were chosen by a distinguished panel of local artists. The winner will be honored at a reception in Washington D.C. this fall, and her artwork will be displayed at the U.S. Capitol for the remainder of the year.

The annual Congressional Art Competition celebrates the artistic achievements of the nation’s high school students. Since the competition began in 1982, more than 650,000 high school students have participated, with more than 10,000 student artworks displayed at the U.S. Capitol.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Ed Case (Hawai‘i – District 1)

(Honolulu, HI) – U.S. Representative Ed Case (Hawai‘i-First District) today announced the winners of his 2026 Congressional Art Competition at Bishop Museum, where entries were on public display.

Seventeen art pieces were entered this year from seven schools throughout his district.

“All of this year’s participants demonstrated remarkable dedication and creativity, contributing to a competition that once again challenged our judges with its exceptional caliber of work,” said Case.

“The breadth of perspectives and artistic expression on display speaks volumes about the talent within our community. I am honored to recognize these young artists and look forward to showcasing the winning piece in the U.S. Capitol as a reflection of the vibrant spirit of our district.”

Each spring since 1982, the Congressional Institute sponsors a nationwide high school visual arts competition to recognize and encourage artistic talents in each Congressional district. The winners for Case’s event this year are:

1^st Place

Atona Chan

Grade 12

Kalani High School

Title: “As the Land Breathes”

Medium: Acrylic paint on wood canvas

Atona and a guest will receive a round trip for two on Southwest Airlines to attend the National Awards Competition in Washington, D.C., among other prizes.  Her image representing Hawai‘i’s 1^st Congressional District will also be displayed in the U.S. Capitol for one year along with those of the winners in other districts.

2^nd Place

Deinalyn Theodore

Grade 12

Farrington High School

Title: “Intertwined by Love”

Medium: photography

Deinalyn’s image will be displayed in the Washington, D.C. Office of Congressman Case for one year, along with a certificate.

3^rd Place

Bjorn Ian Dy

Grade 10

Farrington High School

Title: “Overcoming”

Medium: photography

Bjorn’s image will be displayed in the District Office of Congressman Case in downtown Honolulu for one year, along with a certificate.

Honorable Mentions

Gryson Gapasin

Grade 12

Moanalua High School

Title: “Light of a Pure Heart”

Medium: mixed media

Hana Kawai

Grade 12

Kalani High School

Title: “Voyage from the Land of the Rising Sun”

Medium: pencil and watercolor

May Shiraishi

Grade 10

Hawai‘i Baptist Academy

Title: “Legacy Across the Horizon”

Medium: acrylic

“I want to especially thank our panel of judges who reviewed the works and made some very tough decisions”, said Case. The judges were:

–      Sheanae Tam

Sheanae Tam was born and raised in Koʻolaupoko, Oʻahu. In 2017, she graduated with a BFA from the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa, laying the foundation for her multifaceted career. Since then, Sheanae has embraced a diverse range of roles, blending her passions for public education, art, and regenerative farming. With a deep-rooted commitment to her island home, Sheanae endeavors to create meaningful connections between people, culture, and ʻāina.

–      Kamakani Konia

Kamakani Konia is the Art in Public Places Director for the State Foundation on Culture and the Arts. He is a proud graduate of Kamehameha Schools Kapālama and the University of Hawai’i at Mānoa where he received both a Bachelor of Fine Arts and a Master of Public Administration. His work seeks to support local artists by promoting public accessibility to the arts and humanities.   

–      Eddie Freeman

Eddie Freeman‘s passion for photography was ignited flying helicopters over Vietnam during the war, serving as a US Marine. His arrival in Hawai‘i after the evacuation of Saigon in 1975 energized this pursuit due to the good fortune of a continued career over and throughout our islands.  The beauty of our ‘āina, our music, our culture and our people allowed his photographic journey to thrive both professionally and personally, he never left Hawai‘i and continues to shoot and share his craft at every opportunity.  Eddie is honored to judge this competition, and he encourages all young artists to pursue their dreams.

Eddie and his wife Sue Bauer were also the co-chairs of the “Wall That Heals”, organizing the exhibition at UH West O‘ahu earlier this year.

Attachments: pictures of the event

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Austin Scott (GA-08)

Washington, D.C—U.S. Representative Austin Scott (GA-08), Vice Chairman of the House Agriculture Committee, today issued the following statement after H.R. 7567, the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026, passed out of the House of Representatives by a vote of 224 – 200, sending it to the Senate for consideration:

“Our country’s farmers and ranchers are currently experiencing years of high input cost, shrinking margins, and uncertainty heading into the growing season.  Through House Republicans’ work on H.R. 1, we achieved the first meaningful investment in the farm safety net since 2002, we brought integrity back to our nutrition programs, and we provided relief to our farming families through tax cuts. 

The Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026 builds on those accomplishments and completes the long-delayed Farm Bill process. This legislation modernizes trade and global food assistance, bolsters the future of American agriculture by improving access to farm credit, invests in broadband, child care, health care, workforce needs, and critical water infrastructure projects that strengthen our rural communities and give them much needed support for the years to come.  This is a major win for America’s growers, ranchers, and all of rural America.”

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett (USVI)

For Immediate Release                             Contact: Tionee Scotland
May 7, 2026                                                    202-808-6129

PRESS RELEASE

CONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT SECURES AQUACULTURE STUDY PROVISION FOR VIRGIN ISLANDS IN HOUSE-PASSED FARM BILL

Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett (D-VI) announces the inclusion of her amendment directing the Secretary of Agriculture to conduct a study identifying locations in the U.S. Virgin Islands suitable for the development of aquaculture small businesses in the Farm Bill (H.R. 7567), which passed in the U.S. House of Representatives on April 30, 2026.

The amendment requires the Agriculture Secretary to complete the study within 180 days of enactment and mandates consultation with the Virgin Islands Department of Planning and Natural Resources. The study will assess water quality, coastal access, infrastructure needs, and applicable environmental and regulatory requirements, laying critical groundwork for the growth of a sustainable aquaculture economy in the Territory.

“The Virgin Islands has everything it takes to be a leader in aquaculture — our waters, our geography, our people. What we have lacked is the federal investment and infrastructure assessment needed to turn that potential into real economic opportunity for our small business owners and our community. This study is a meaningful step toward ensuring that the Virgin Islands is not left out of the blue economy, and is the outgrowth of discussions with John Farchette while he was with the Virgin Islands Department of Planning and Natural Resources (DPNR). I am excited about the possibility of deep-sea farming for export, the potential development of high-value fisheries (crustaceans) and mechanisms for effective sargassum management here in the Virgin Islands. I will continue to fight to make sure that federal resources and federal attention reach our shores,” said Congresswoman Stacey Plaskett.

Territorial aquaculture leaders welcomed the amendment as a turning point for the industry. Mr. Farchette, a leading voice on marine aquaculture development in the Virgin Islands, offered the following statement:

“Thank you to the Delegate and her staff for the opportunity to comment on this most important subject. Aquaculture and mariculture in our region would go a long way to ensuring our economic future in the U.S. Virgin Islands. We are uniquely fortunate to have and be surrounded by the U.S. Exclusive Economic Zone. We currently have a seafood trade deficit of $20 billion dollars annually — most of that from China, India, and Ecuador. Promoting marine aquaculture helps in the resiliency of coastal areas, creates meaningful employment, grows our economic future, and brings a new industry to the U.S. Virgin Islands.

“Exportation of manufactured seafood products to the U.S. market would offset that trade deficit we currently have with Asian countries and Ecuador, shared Mr. Farchette. “Our waters can produce 25% more biomass than areas currently being fish farmed in the United States, and we have unique incentives to promote the exportation of manufactured products from the Virgin Islands. The U.S. Virgin Islands has established rules and regulations to govern this new industry and a VI 5-Year Aquaculture Plan pursuant to Act 6471 — we are currently the only Caribbean territory under the U.S. flag to have done so. We look forward to working with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the Department of the Interior, the Department of Commerce, NOAA’s Office of Aquaculture, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the U.S. Coast Guard, and other federal institutions to ensure that our environment and public health are protected as this industry grows. Again, we would like to thank Delegate Stacey Plaskett for her invaluable support over the years. God bless the United States of America and the people of the United States Virgin Islands.”

The Farm Bill passed the House on April 30, 2026, and now moves to the U.S. Senate for consideration. If passed, it will proceed to the President’s desk to be signed into law.

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