MIL USHOR-2b Engine

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (25th District of FLORIDA)

NAPLES, FL – Representative Mario Díaz-Balart (FL-26) is pleased to invite members of the media to attend a special check presentation ceremony on Monday, May 11^th at 11:45 a.m.

 

The event celebrates the $2.5 million in federal funding secured by Congressman Diaz-Balart for the Collier County Sheriff’s Office Marked Vehicle Expansion Project. This project will consist of upgrades to essential equipment that are in critical need of replacement. These include marked patrol vehicles, as well as specialty vehicles such as a jail transport bus, a hostage negotiation van, and a safe boat. 

WHAT: Check Presentation Ceremony 

WHO:

• Rep. Mario Díaz-Balart (FL-26), Vice Chair of the House Appropriations Committee
• Sheriff Kevin Rambosk, Collier County Sheriff’s Office

WHEN:

Monday, May 11^th at 11:45 a.m.

WHERE:

250 Patriot Way

Naples 34104

All interested credentialed media may RSVP to  Andrea.Morales@mail.house.gov

Background: This project received funding through the Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act of 2026, which was approved by Congress and signed by the President on January 23^rd, 2026.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (25th District of FLORIDA)

NAPLES, FL – Representative Mario Díaz-Balart (FL-26) is pleased to invite members of the media to attend a special check presentation ceremony on Monday, May 11th, at 11 a.m.  

The event celebrates the $2 million in funding secured for the feasibility analysis for the proposed interchange at I-75 and the Everglades Boulevard Project. This project would be used to assess the possibility of opening the existing Everglades Boulevard interchange located on a portion of I-75. 

WHAT: Check Presentation Ceremony 

WHO: 

• Rep. Mario Díaz-Balart (FL-26), Vice Chair of the House Appropriations Committee 
• Chairman and Collier County Commissioner Dan Kowal 
• Vice Chairman and Collier County Commissioner William L. McDaniel 
• Collier County Commissioner Burt Saunders 

WHEN: 

Monday, May 11th at 11:00 a.m. 

WHERE: 

3299 Tamiami Trail East, 3rd Floor, Naples, FL 34112 

All interested credentialed media must RSVP to Andrea.Morales@mail.house.gov 

Background: This project received funding through the Senate Amendment to H.R. 7148, the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2026, which was approved by Congress and signed into law by the President on February 3^rd, 2026. 

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Source: {United States House of Representatives – Congressman Bobby Scott (3rd District of Virginia)

Headline: Scott Statement on Virginia Supreme Court Decision on Redistricting Referendum

NEWPORT NEWS, VA – Congressman Bobby Scott (VA-03) issued the following statement: 

“Two weeks ago, Virginia’s voters stood up to Donald Trump and MAGA Republicans’ unprecedented attempt to redraw congressional maps in the middle of the decade in an effort to rig the midterms. And now the Virginia Supreme Court has overridden the will of Virginia’s voters with this unprecedented interpretation of the Virginia Constitution, preventing Virginia from responding to partisan and racially discriminatory gerrymandering all over the country. As Chief Justice Powell noted in her dissent, the majority relied on a convoluted interpretation of the law and definition of ‘election’ to overturn the clearly expressed will of Virginia’s voters. In fact, the majority spent significant time in their opinion describing what they thought the law ought to be instead of what it is. 

“This happens in the context of the U.S. Supreme Court repeatedly allowing partisan and racial gerrymandering. Just last week in the Louisiana v. Callais case, the Court destroyed what remained of the Voting Rights Act, making it easier for many states to silence the voices of African American communities. Texas, Florida, North Carolina, Texas, and Missouri have already acted to eliminate many seats held by Black and Hispanic Members of Congress. Just yesterday, the Tennessee legislature approved a plan that eliminated a majority Black district in Memphis that had allowed Black voters to elect a candidate of their choice for over 50 years. And we expect further action in Louisiana, Alabama and Mississippi. 

“Republican politicians across the country are trying to dilute voters’ voices, but we cannot allow that to happen. Ultimately, Virginia’s voters will have the final say on who represents them in Washington this fall.”

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman David Schweikert (AZ-06)

Before visiting a foreign country, you should ensure that all your travel concerns are addressed. Here are a few of the most common questions my office receives that deal with passports:

How do I apply for a U.S. Passport?

If you are applying for a Passport for the first time, you will need to apply in person at a designated Passport Acceptance Office. A list of the necessary documents and other detailed information can be found here.

You can find the closest Passport Acceptance Office by using the search on this U.S. Department of State Search Engine.

How can I renew my existing passport?

If you already have a passport that is not damaged, was issued in the past 15 years, was received after your 16th birthday, and has your same name, you can apply for a passport renewal by mail.

For more information on renewing your passport, visit the Passport Renewal Page at the U.S. Consular Affairs Web Site.

I can’t wait for the standard 8-11 week processing time for my application. Can I request an expedite?

Yes. For an additional fee, you can request expedited processing which currently takes 5-7 weeks.

For more information on expediting processing, visit the Expedited Service Page at the U.S. Consular Affairs Web Site or call 1-877-487-2778.

If you would like my help with a passport issue, please do not hesitate to contact my Scottsdale District Office staff at 480-946-2411.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Julia Brownley (D-CA)

Federal funding will strengthen emergency preparedness, modernize aging infrastructure, and improve access to clean drinking water

Thousand Oaks, CA – On Thursday, May 7, Congresswoman Julia Brownley presented checks to the City of Camarillo and the City of Oxnard for community projects she secured federal funding for through the Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations process.

Congresswoman Brownley presented the City of Camarillo with $1,145,144 for its Hybrid Microgrid Standby Power Resiliency Project and the City of Oxnard with $1,092,000 for its Cast Iron Pipe Replacement Project.

“Working alongside federal, state, and local leaders, I am proud to have secured funding for these critical infrastructure investments in Camarillo and Oxnard,” said Congresswoman Brownley. “From replacing aging pipelines that are essential to delivering clean drinking water to strengthening energy-resilient infrastructure that can withstand the demands of our disaster-prone region, these investments will help keep our communities safe, connected, and prepared for the future. This funding is about delivering real, lasting results for the people we serve.”

“We thank Congresswoman Brownley for helping secure this critical funding to bolster Camarillo’s operational resiliency,” said Camarillo Mayor David Tennessen. “With these investments in backup power technology, the City will be able to continue to provide essential services to the community under adverse conditions such as power outages during high-wind events and wildfires.”

“Investing in critical water infrastructure is a top priority for Oxnard’s future. This investment towards the cast iron pipeline replacement project will make a meaningful difference, improving the reliability, safety, and long-term sustainability of our water system for years to come,” said Oxnard Mayor Luis Mc Arthur. “These essential projects ensure Oxnard’s infrastructure can continue to support future generations. We are grateful to Congresswoman Julia Brownley for her support and partnership in securing these important federal funds for the City of Oxnard.”

“I appreciate Congresswoman Brownley’s dedication and efforts to ensure our local projects remain a priority,” said Ventura County Supervisor Vianey Lopez, District 5. “Projects like the Cast Iron Pipe Replacement Project improve the wellbeing of our community. With these funds, the City will be able to make progress in replacing old pipes in the Kamala Park neighborhood where frequent repairs to the current 60-year-old pipes cause disruption to residents by installing new PVC water pipelines in the community.”

About the Projects

The Hybrid Microgrid Standby Power Resiliency Project will fortify critical response operations by integrating power generators, solar technology, and battery storage with advanced switchgear controls, ensuring uninterrupted power and services during emergencies. The need for the project was proven in November 2024 when the Mountain Fire devastated hundreds of structures in and around Camarillo. The city regularly faces disruptions from power shutoffs during Santa Ana wind conditions, compromising emergency services. This important infrastructure project allows Camarillo to maintain operational capacity during grid disruption, with substantial cost savings, while strengthening its capacity to serve residents during emergencies. 

The Cast Iron Pipe Replacement Project will replace aging cast iron waterline pipes at risk of failure. Many of the cast iron potable water pipelines in Oxnard are over 60 years old, have reached the end of their useful life, and are constantly in need of repairs, which is disruptive and costly to the residents of the city. Replacement of these aged pipelines will ensure access to clean drinking water for residents of the Kamala Park neighborhood in Oxnard.

Background on FY2026 Community Projects

Congresswoman Brownley secured more than $62 million in federal funding for 15 community projects and for other programmatic requests across Ventura County and the Conejo Valley in the Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations process.

An initial list of FY26 community projects and investments secured by Congresswoman Brownley is available here. A list of additional community projects and investments secured by Congresswoman Brownley in the FY26 appropriations packages is available here.

Photos from the check presentation in Camarillo can be found here. Photos from the check presentation in Oxnard can be found here.

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Issues: 119th Congress, Transportation and Infrastructure

Source: United States House of Representatives – Julia Brownley (D-CA)

In total, Brownley secured more than $62 million for local infrastructure, transportation, and resilience projects in the FY26 appropriations process

Washington, DC – Today, Congresswoman Julia Brownley (CA-26) announced additional funding that she secured for California’s 26th Congressional District in the Fiscal Year 2026 appropriations process. The funding ensures continued federal support for important transportation and infrastructure investments throughout Ventura County and the Conejo Valley.

“I am proud to have played a part in keeping our communities moving forward,” said Congresswoman Brownley. “I am especially grateful to our local leaders and community stakeholders whose partnership helped make these projects possible.

“A strong future for Ventura and Los Angeles Counties depends on modern, reliable infrastructure and transportation networks that keep our communities connected and our economy moving. These investments will strengthen public safety, improve disaster resilience, modernize critical infrastructure, and create good-paying jobs throughout our region.”

The final FY2026 Transportation, and Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act included the following Community Projects:

• $250,000 for the Southern California Regional Railroad Authority (Metrolink) Arroyo Simi Bridges Scour Mitigation Project
• $1,120,000 for Additional In-Route Charges for the City of Simi Valley Transit Hub Project
• $2,600,000 for the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s (Metro) Regional Bus Stop Enhancement Program 
• $250,000 for the Clean Power Alliance Power Ready Program for Critical Public Facilities Improvements
• $850,000 for the City of Calabasas Citywide Green Street Project
• $850,000 for the City of Agoura Hills Affordable Housing Microgrid
• $250,000 for the Ventura County Agricultural Training, Resource, and Community Center Development and Reconstruction

The FY2026 Homeland Security and Related Agencies Appropriations Act included the following Community Projects:

• $1,145,144 for the City of Camarillo Hybrid Microgrid Standby Power Resiliency Project
• $1,145,144 for the City of Thousand Oaks Community Resilience Center Project 
• $336,000 for the City of Westlake Village Emergency Operations Center Resilience Project

Congresswoman Brownley also announced that the final FY2026 Work Plan, which Congress requires be released by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, included additional funds from the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund for the Channel Islands Harbor, bringing the harbor’s FY2026 total allotment to $18,646,000.

The Army Corps’ FY2026 work plan also provided additional donor port funds for the Port of Hueneme, bringing the port’s FY2026 total allotment to $23,381,610. 

In 2016, Congresswoman Brownley authored a provision in the Water Resources Development Act of 2016 (P.L. 114-322) that ensured the Port of Hueneme would be eligible to receive donor port funds. Since coming to Congress, Brownley has been a leading advocate for California’s donor ports, including the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach.

“California’s ports are essential economic engines that support jobs, trade, and supply chains across the country, and Congress has a responsibility to ensure they receive fair and equitable funding. I will continue working alongside California’s donor ports to ensure they have the resources necessary to grow and thrive.”

In total, Brownley secured over $62 million for critical investments throughout Ventura County and the Conejo Valley in the final FY26 appropriations legislation and Corps’ work plan.

To view the list of previously announced FY26 funding, click here.

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Issues: 119th Congress, Transportation and Infrastructure

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative for Western Samoa Congresswoman Aumua Amata

Headline: Amata Honors Law Enforcement for Police Week  

Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata is honoring American Samoa’s law enforcement officers in recognition of National Police Week (May 10-16), and National Peace Officers Memorial Day (May 15th yearly).

“Thank you to our law enforcement officers for their dedication and service. National Police Week is a good reminder that we depend on law enforcement to respond in time of need and provide safeguards to the community,” said Congresswoman Amata. “Since we rely on professional officers, it’s important to support their training, readiness, situational planning, and equipment. In turn, these officers we support serve honorably in upholding rights and protecting people. May God keep our law enforcement and peace officers daily.”

On Wednesday, the National Law Enforcement Memorial and Museum will hold the 38th Annual Candlelight Vigil for fallen officers. “Peace Officers Memorial Day is a poignant reminder of the sacrifice of thousands of officers and their families,” Amata said.

Congress established National Police Week in 1962, and President John F. Kennedy proclaimed May 15 as National Peace Officers Memorial Day. In April, 10,000 daffodils bloom at the Memorial, which opened in 1991, featuring two curving, 304-foot-long blue-gray limestone walls. Carved on these walls are the names of more than 24,000 officers who have died in the line of duty throughout U.S. history, dating back to the first known death in 1786. Names are added yearly, in conjunction with National Police Week.

Honoring Police Week 2026

Each year, Congress passes a Resolution for special use of the U.S. Capitol grounds, including this year’s 45th Annual National Peace Officers Memorial Service, and the National Honor Guard and Pipe Band Exhibition. In her time in Congress, Amata has cosponsored various Resolutions honoring and supporting law enforcement. In 2019, she cosponsored the House bill authorizing the National Law Enforcement Memorial and Museum Commemorative Coin, which was signed into law.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jimmy Gomez (CA-34)

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Representatives and Jimmy Gomez (CA-34) and Dan Goldman (NY-10), founding members of the Congressional Dads Caucus, introduced the Afterschool for All Act, new legislation that would provide $10 billion in federal funding annually for 10 years after school and summer learning programming. The programming would be fully paid for by a 1% increase in the corporate income tax rate. 

“I’m introducing this bill because families need real support between the end of the school day and the end of the workday, and right now too many parents are left scrambling to cover this gap in care. I launched the Dads Caucus because I’ve seen firsthand how hard parents work to balance their jobs, the high cost of living, and being there for their kids. This bill will invest in afterschool programs to give children a safe place to learn and grow while helping parents get through the day with one less thing hanging over their heads,” said Dads Caucus Chair Jimmy Gomez.

“Afterschool and summer learning programs are a lifeline for working parents and an invaluable source of enrichment for kids,” said Rep. Goldman. “But too often, the low-income families who need these programs the most are the ones who don’t have access to them. I am proud to be introducing this legislation to provide $10 billion a year to dramatically expand the availability of afterschool programs in communities nationwide and help make sure all of our kids are safe and supported, our parents can pursue their careers, and our economy can grow.”

“Afterschool programs are vital to keeping kids safe, supervised, and supported after school, delivering crucial academic enrichment and allowing parents to make a living,” said David Garza, President & CEO of Henry Street Settlement, which operates eight after school programs on Manhattan’s Lower East Side. “High-quality afterschool is a particularly urgent need for children of low-income parents like those Henry Street serves, who struggle with inconsistent hours, frequent layoffs, and neighborhood safety issues. A positive afterschool experience is a launching pad that lasts a lifetime, and we applaud Reps. Dan Goldman and Jimmy Gomez’s Afterschool for All Act, which will extend these benefits to children throughout the United States who live in poverty.”

The Afterschool for All Act reauthorizes the Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers program and provides a tenfold increase in funding. This program, which expired in 2023, is the only federal funding source for afterschool and summer learning programming. The program enables state educational agencies to provide grants to schools and community organizations to offer afterschool activities focused on STEM, physical fitness and wellness, academic enrichment, nutrition and health education, service learning, financial literacy, apprenticeships, and other career readiness opportunities. Research consistently shows that high-quality afterschool programs improve grades, boost attendance, strengthen long-term earnings, and reduce juvenile crime.

The need for these programs remains substantial. Millions of working parents face a persistent care gap between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m., the hours when juvenile crime and risky behaviors peak and when many families cannot secure safe, affordable supervision. Without these programs, parents can be forced to cut hours or leave jobs, and local businesses lose the stable workforce they depend on. In the 2022–2023 school year, Community Learning Centers served more than a million pre-K–12 students, but demand for afterschool programs far exceeds available funding.

The Afterschool for All Act would ensure that all students have access to afterschool opportunities by reauthorizing the Nita M. Lowey Community Learning Centers program and increasing its funding to $10 billion annually for the next decade. This tenfold expansion in funding would ensure that every low-income K-12 student – more than 10 million students nationwide – can access afterschool and summer learning programs, thereby giving them the same opportunities and support as their peers.

The bill is endorsed by RaisingHealth Partners, Chinese-American Planning Council (CPC), Henry Street Settlement, Center for Family Life In Sunset Park, and Grand Street Settlement

Representatives Tim Kennedy (NY-26), George Latimer (NY-16), Seth Moulton (MA-06), Steve Cohen (TN-09), Joyce Beatty (OH-03), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-AL), Andre Carson (IN-07), Gil Cisneros (CA-31), and Cleo Fields (LA-06) cosponsor the legislation.

Read the full bill text here.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman John Garamendi – Representing California’s 3rd Congressional District

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman John Garamendi – Representing California’s 3rd Congressional District