MIL USHOR-2b Engine

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Jimmy Panetta (D-Calif)

Monterey, CA – United States Representative Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) authored and led a letter to the Trump Administration strongly opposing its recent decision by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) to end funding for illicit drug test strips. In his letter to Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., Rep. Panetta and his colleagues emphasized that test strips are bipartisan, science-based tools that are critical to avoiding preventable deaths amid the rise of synthetic opioids and emerging adulterants like xylazine.

Rep. Panetta and his colleagues highlighted that Congress, on a bipartisan basis, has repeatedly authorized and funded test strips, including through last year’s reauthorization of the SUPPORT Act. They also underscored that unilaterally limiting funding for drug test strips goes against Congress’s consensus and puts Americans across the country at risk from growing drug threats such as xylazine.

“Communities across the country, including those we represent, are facing an increasingly volatile and dangerous drug supply,” wrote Rep. Panetta and his colleagues. “Fentanyl remains the leading cause of overdose deaths nationwide, and the rise of xylazine and medetomidine-adulterated fentanyl has further complicated both overdose response and treatment. Test strips for fentanyl, xylazine, and other substances are proven, cost-effective public health tools to detect lethal adulterants, reduce the risk of fatality from illicit drug use.”

“Eliminating federal support for these test strips would have immediate and damaging consequences. State, tribal, and local health agencies rely heavily on SAMHSA funding to distribute these supplies through trusted community partners, first responders, and public health departments,” continued the lawmakers. “Removing this support would force many programs to scale back or shut down, increasing the likelihood of fatal overdoses—particularly in the rural and underserved communities that already experience treatment gaps.”

The letter is co-signed by Representatives Judy Chu (CA-28), Madeleine Dean (PA-04), Debbie Dingell (MI-06), Adelita Grijalva (AZ-07), April McClain Delaney (MD-06), Dave Min (CA-47), Gwen Moore (WI-04), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-AL), Lori Trahan (MA-03), and Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12).

Rep. Panetta is the lead author and sponsor of the bicameral, bipartisan Combating Illicit Xylazine Act. This bill would stem the flow of xylazine while protecting the drug’s legal use by veterinarians, farmers, and ranchers.

Full text of the letter is available here and below:

Dear Secretary Kennedy:

We write to express our strong opposition to the recent Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) policy ending funding for illicit drug test strips. At a time when synthetic opioids and emerging adulterants such as xylazine continue to drive unprecedented preventable deaths, the federal government must reinforce, not retreat from, bipartisan, evidence-based tools that save lives. 

Communities across the country, including those we represent, are facing an increasingly volatile and dangerous drug supply. Fentanyl remains the leading cause of overdose deaths nationwide, and the rise of xylazine and medetomidine-adulterated fentanyl has further complicated both overdose response and treatment. Test strips for fentanyl, xylazine, and other substances are proven, cost-effective public health tools to detect lethal adulterants, reduce the risk of fatality from illicit drug use. While they may not prevent addiction, test strips can lessen its toll and give drug users the chance to survive and recover. 

Eliminating federal support for these test strips would have immediate and damaging consequences. State, tribal, and local health agencies rely heavily on SAMHSA funding to distribute these supplies through trusted community partners, first responders, and public health departments. Removing this support would force many programs to scale back or shut down, increasing the likelihood of fatal overdoses—particularly in the rural and underserved communities that already experience treatment gaps.

Congress has consistently funded test strips in a bipartisan manner, most recently mandating them last year in the bipartisan SUPPORT Act reauthorization, and has worked productively with Democratic and Republican administrations to address the threat of emerging drug threats such as xylazine. Last year, the Trump Administration called on Congress to pass popular legislation to limit the spread of illicit xylazine, and explicitly endorsed test strips. Limiting these funds, especially through a unilateral mandate, undermines this bipartisan consensus and will be felt in Democrat- and Republican-represented congressional districts across the country. 

We respectfully request that HHS reverse any directive restricting funding for fentanyl or xylazine test strips and promptly clarify to grantees that these supplies remain eligible for federal support. Moving forward, we urge the administration to consult with Congress on this shared priority. Thank you for your continued partnership in the bipartisan fight against the overdose epidemic.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Randy Weber (14th District of Texas)

Washington, D.C. – Ahead of Mother’s Day, Congressman Randy Weber (TX-14) introduced a resolution recognizing the importance of motherhood and honoring the women who raise and shape the next generation of Americans. The resolution reaffirms the significance of mothers, the sacrifices they make for their families, and the lasting impact they have on communities across the country.

“Motherhood is one of God’s greatest blessings and one of the strongest foundations of our country,” said Rep. Weber. “For generations, mothers have raised families, strengthened communities, and shaped the character of our nation. As some continue trying to redefine or diminish what motherhood means, we are standing firm in recognizing and celebrating the women who give life, love, and sacrifice so much for the next generation. On Mother’s Day, and every day, we honor the mothers who keep America strong!”

This resolution:

• Supports policies that recognize mothers as mothers;
• Acknowledges that Mother’s Day is intended specifically to commemorate motherhood and to honor the mothers of the United States;
• Recognizes the importance of motherhood, the sacrifices women make when choosing to raise a family, and the invaluable contributions of motherhood to the family, community, states, and the country as a whole;
• And encourages the people of the United States to observe Mother’s Day in celebration of the women who have chosen to bring life into the world and nurture the next generation.

Cosponsors include: Reps. Don Bacon (NE-02), Brian Babin (TX-36), Stephanie Bice (OK-05), Buddy Carter (GA-01), Craig Goldman (TX-12), Harriet Hageman (WY-At Large), Diana Harshbarger (TN-01), Wesley Hunt (TX-38), Barry Loudermilk (GA-11), Mary Miller (IL-15), Blake Moore (UT-01), Barry Moore (AL-01), Nathaniel Moran (TX-01), Rich McCormick (GA-07), Addison McDowell (NC-06), John Moolenaar (MI-02), Michael Rulli (OH-06), Maria Salazar (FL-27), Pete Sessions (TX-17), Chris Smith (NJ-04), Brian Mast (FL-21), and Claudia Tenney (NY-24).

Read the full bill text here.

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

Washington, D.C. – In case you missed it, Michigan Congresswoman Haley Stevens introduced the “Homeownership Savings Act,” a bill designed to help Michiganders afford their first home. With housing prices and mortgage costs continuing to rise, Stevens’ proposal would create tax-free savings accounts that first-time buyers could use to save for down payments and closing costs.

Here’s what Michiganders are seeing and reading about Rep. Haley Stevens’ efforts to make homeownership more affordable for working families across the state:

In Detroit:
WMYD

• Being able to buy a new home is one of the affordability issues that many people are trying to deal with now, and a Michigan lawmaker wants to help out. Congresswoman Haley Stevens is introducing the “Homeownership Savings Act.”
• This bill would create a tax-free savings account for first-time homebuyers to save for down payments and closing costs tax-free.
• Eligible buyers would be able to contribute up to $40,000 of the lifetime of that account.
• You would also be able to deduct your contributions from your taxes each year.
• Employers could also add money to those accounts.

In Flint:
WNEM

• Michigan Congresswoman Haley Stevens introducing a new bill known as the Homeownerships Savings Act to reduce costs for first time homebuyers.
• The bill would create homeownership savings accounts so every first time buyer can contribute up to $40,000 for down payments and closing costs.
• Contributions would be tax deductible up to annual limits. Employers could also contribute to employee accounts.

In Lansing:
WLNS

• Housing affordability has emerged as one of the defining issues of 2026.
• The latest among them is U.S. Rep. Haley Stevens, a Birmingham Democrat. Stevens’ legislation would create tax-advantaged savings accounts for first-time homebuyers. It would also allow individuals to deduct annual contributions to a dedicated account, and withdrawals used for a down payment or closing costs on a primary residence would be tax-free, subject to income limits.
• “For too many Michiganders, the American Dream of owning a home is slipping away,” Stevens said in a statement. “Families are working hard just to keep up with everyday costs while homeownership moves further out of reach.”

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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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