MIL USHOR-2b Engine

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Gregory W Meeks (5th District of New York)

Washington, D.C. – Representative Gregory W. Meeks, Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, issued the following statement concerning the State Department’s release today of the 2024 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices: 

“By deliberately watering down or cutting factual reporting on global human rights violations—from denial of fair trial and inhumane prison conditions to restrictions on freedom of expression—the State Department under Secretary Rubio has shamelessly turned a once-credible tool of U.S. foreign policy mandated by Congress into yet another instrument to advance MAGA political grievances and culture war obsessions. This administration continues to do irreparable harm to America’s credibility and global leadership as it retreats from defending human rights abroad and attacks the rule of law and civil liberties of Americans here at home. Trump and Republicans care more about advancing their own power and political agenda than defending human rights, including yours.” 

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Nydia M Velázquez (D-NY)

BROOKLYN, NY– Yesterday, Congresswoman Nydia M. Velázquez (D-NY) gathered local health care workers, hospital leadership, and Medicaid recipients at Wyckoff Heights Medical Center in Bushwick to speak out against the deep Medicaid cuts included in the Republicans’ Big Ugly Bill, which strips health insurance from 17 million Americans.

The press conference focused on the devastating impact of nearly a trillion dollars in Medicaid cuts on working families in Brooklyn and Queens. Speakers also discussed the harm these cuts would do to safety net hospitals like Wyckoff, which serves a largely working-class and immigrant population that depends on Medicaid for essential care.

“The damage from this law is real, and it’s already underway,” said Congresswoman Velázquez. “Hospitals like Wyckoff are being asked to do more with less while serving the most vulnerable members of our community. We’re not going to stay quiet while families lose care and safety net providers are pushed to the brink.”

In New York State, the bill is projected to cut nearly $13 billion from the health care system and cause 1.5 million New Yorkers to lose their coverage. In New York’s 7th District alone, 45 percent of residents rely on Medicaid for essential care.

Speakers at the event included Wyckoff CEO Vail Gache, front-line health care workers, community health advocates, and Medicaid recipients who shared the threat this bill poses to critical care and services.

“Medicaid is the backbone of the whole-health, community-based care that organizations like ICL provide every single day,” said Jody Rudin, President and CEO of the Institute for Community Living (ICL). “From mobile mental health teams and supportive housing to substance use treatment and primary care coordination, Medicaid supports the full continuum of services that help New Yorkers with the most complex needs stay healthy, housed, and stable. We’re proud to stand with Congresswoman Velázquez to demand that Medicaid be protected—because without it, far too many New Yorkers will lose access to life-saving care.”

“The entire Wyckoff Heights Medical Center family, and the vibrant Brooklyn and Queens communities we care for every day are deeply grateful for the efforts of our Congresswoman Velázquez, our entire Congressional Delegation, Governor Hochul, the New York State Department of Health, our partners in Labor, and our City and Borough Leaders for their diligent and relentless work to mitigate the impact of the impending breathtaking cuts to New York’s Medicaid and safety net programs,” said Vali Gache, President & CEO of WHMC. “Now more than ever, our providers, patients, labor allies, and our governmental leaders across New York City and New York State must band together to ensure that we maintain excellent access to high quality care for vulnerable communities like ours.  We stand in solidarity with Congresswoman Velázquez and her allies in this critically important campaign to secure a healthy future for all New Yorkers.”
 
“At VNS Health, we support Veterans, many over 100-years-old, who rely on Medicaid for home-based care when VA facilities are full, unavailable, or too far from home,” said Satish Dhanna, LMSW, Supervisor of the VNS Health Veterans Program and U.S. Army Veteran. “For disabled and low-income Veterans, who often face unique healthcare challenges related to their service, Medicaid often means the difference between managing chronic conditions at home or ending up hospitalized—the difference between aging with dignity or living in crisis. Medicaid reduces out-of-pocket costs and provides a safety net for the most vulnerable members of our Veteran community. Cuts to Medicaid will harm those service men, women and families, who’ve already sacrificed so much.”

Velázquez pledged to continue fighting to reverse the cuts and protect the health care programs that millions of New Yorkers rely on.

“We are going to make sure every New Yorker, and every American understands the harm this bill will do,” she said. “And we won’t stop until we protect and strengthen Medicaid for the families who need it most.”

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas)

U.S. Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas) released a statement following U.S. District Judge David Counts’ order to lift environmental protections for the lesser prairie-chicken. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) requested Judge Counts vacate the 2022 decision that listed the bird as an endangered species, and Judge Counts granted their request. In 2021, under the Biden administration, the FWS relisted the lesser prairie-chicken as a threatened and endangered species. In response, Rep. Estes introduced the Promoting Local Management of the Lesser Prairie-Chicken Act in 2022. Rep. Estes has been active on this issue since the beginning of his tenure in Congress.

“The U.S. District Judge’s order to vacate a 2022 decision that granted the lesser prairie-chicken environmental protections is great news for Kansas farmers and energy producers. The inclusion of the lesser prairie-chicken on the endangered species list infringed upon the private property rights of Kansans for years,” said Rep. Estes. “Now the lesser prairie-chicken, and common sense Kansas farmers and ranchers, have been liberated from overbearing bureaucracy. Kansas agriculture and energy will benefit from this judicial decision, and I’m grateful President Trump and his administration advocated for this outcome.”

Background:

July 2024 – Rep. Estes Votes to Rein in D.C. Bureaucracy, Protect Kansans

November 2023 – Rep. Ron Estes Praises Restrictions to WOTUS, Limits on Lesser Prairie-Chicken Listing in Appropriations Bill

July 2023 – Rep. Estes Supports Lesser Prairie-Chicken Congressional Review Act

May 2023 – The Great Struggle Over the Lesser Prairie-Chicken

December 2022 – Rep. Estes Introduces Legislation to Protect Private Property Rights

June 2021 – Rep. Estes Leads Letter to Interior Secretary Haaland

May 2021 – Rep. Estes Reacts to Fish and Wildlife’s Lesser Prairie-Chicken Announcement

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Brad Schneider (D-IL)

Rep. Brad Schneider, a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement ahead of President Trump’s meeting with Vladimir Putin in Alaska:

“Ukraine won’t be in the room when President Trump meets with Vladimir Putin in Alaska. That’s a mistake. We should never negotiate about Ukraine without Ukraine.

“Moreover, for the future security of our allies in Europe and around the world, we cannot accept any nation taking another country’s territory by force – not in Ukraine, not anywhere.

“Trump has given in to dictators on too many occasions. I’ve worked across the aisle to cut off the tech, shut down the supply chains, and close the loopholes that fuel Putin’s war machine. That pressure must continue until Russia ends its war and leaves Ukraine.”

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Adam Smith (9th District of Washington)

SEATTLE, WA.  – Congressman Adam Smith (D-Wash.) spent the week of August 11 engaging with small business owners, healthcare providers, union leaders, conservation experts, and blood service professionals to discuss local priorities and the impacts of federal policy on their work.

On August 11, Smith joined the Washington Hospitality Association for a roundtable at Tutta Bella Neapolitan Pizzeria in Columbia City. Owners, managers, and hospitality leaders discussed the rising cost of doing business, workforce development needs, tariffs, and the Credit Card Competition Act.

The hospitality industry has faced mounting pressures in recent months, with U.S. hotel occupancy dropping by 2.3 percentage points in March compared to last year and international travel to the U.S. falling 3.1% in July— declines tied to tariffs and other Trump administration policies that have increased the average U.S. tariff rate from 2.5% to nearly 27%, the highest since the Great Depression era. In addition, the Seattle area specifically has seen a 30% decline in Canadian tourism.

On August 12, Smith hosted his regular Community Health Centers (CHC) Roundtable at HealthPoint Auburn North with leaders from HealthPoint, Neighborcare, International Community Health Services, and Sea Mar.

 
Participants discussed the threat posed by the Trump administration’s proposal to cut over $1.2 trillion from Medicaid and SNAP over ten years, which could leave 10.9 million Americans uninsured and reduce SNAP participation by 3 million. Such cuts would severely undermine the work of CHCs, which serve tens of thousands of patients in Washington’s Ninth District.

Later the same day, Smith met with representatives from education unions—including SEIU 925, SEIU 1948 PSE, WEA, AAUP, WFSE/AFSCME, and AFT—at AFT Washington’s Renton office to discuss teacher recruitment and retention, the rising cost of living, and defending collective bargaining rights. 

These conversations take place against the backdrop of broader economic inequality, with analysis showing that the bottom 10% of earners stand to lose $1,600 annually under Trump-backed budget cuts, while the wealthiest Americans benefit from large tax breaks.

On August 13, Smith toured the Issaquah Creek Ecological Restoration Project at Lake Sammamish State Park with the Mountains to Sound Greenway Trust. The project aims to restore salmon habitat, stabilize stream banks, and improve ecological resilience in the watershed.

Conservation leaders stressed the importance of sustained federal investment in environmental restoration given that earlier this year the Trump administration and the EPA had frozen federal funding for this project. I am glad to see this funding unfrozen since this work will preserve our public lands for years to come.

On August 14, Smith visited Bloodworks Northwest’s Renton facility for a tour and policy discussion with organizational leaders. They provide blood supply to 95% of hospitals in the Pacific Northwest. In addition to blood collection, testing, and distribution, Bloodworks Northwest leads an innovative research institute and provides lab expertise to support patients receiving critical treatments for cancer and organ transplantation.

He also met with leaders of the Washington State Labor Council on Thursday at his Kent office to talk about the Trump Administration’s plans to cut Medicaid and its proposed pilot project in WA state to use A.I. for Medicaid preauthorization.

“Strong communities require strong federal support,” said Smith. “Whether it’s fair economic policies for small businesses, protecting access to healthcare, safeguarding workers’ rights, restoring our natural environment, or strengthening emergency medical readiness, federal action matters. I will keep fighting for policies that invest in people and reject the shortsighted cuts and harmful trade policies that undermine our district’s economic, health, and environmental future.”

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

PLASKETT ANNOUNCES VIRGIN ISLANDS OFFICES CLOSED ON AUGUST 18TH IN OBSERVANCE OF FUNERAL SERVICES

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Greg Steube (FL-17)

August 15, 2025 | Press ReleasesWASHINGTON — U.S. Representative Greg Steube (R-Fla.) introduced today the Create Accountable Respectful Environments (CARE) for Children Act. This bill permits federal funds to be used on cottage family homes for the purpose of addressing shortfalls in housing for foster children. 
“Every son and daughter of America deserves a roof over their head with patient and supportive parents to guide them,” said Rep. Steube. “I am honored to introduce the Create Accountable Respectful Environments for Children Act to expand options for foster youth and improve overall access to care in child welfare.”
This legislation amends Part E of Title IV in the Social Security Act to grant eligibility for federal funds to cottage family homes.
Rep. Steube is co-leading this legislation alongside Representatives Dr. Neal Dunn (R-Fla.), Kat Cammack (R-Fla.), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-Fla.), and Darren Soto (D-Fla.).
“The CARE for Children Act aims to create safe, healthy environments for children by promoting capacity-building, keeping sibling groups together, and providing a normalized home and community environment for our youth in Florida,” said Rep. Cammack. “At a time when foster homes are in short supply, this bill ensures that cottage family homes keep children safe, nurtured, and cared for to help them grow into happy, healthy adults. I’m glad to join Rep. Dunn and my Florida colleagues in supporting the CARE Act.”
“It is essential we protect children and give them every opportunity to thrive. The Create Accountable Respectful Environments (CARE) for Children Act addresses the health, safety, and well-being of youngsters who face difficult challenges,” said Rep. Wasserman Schultz. “I’m proud to introduce this legislation with my colleagues so we can provide children with a normalized home and community environment when times are most difficult.”
“Every child deserves a safe, stable, and loving home. I’m proud to cosponsor the CARE for Children Act to help address the shortage of foster homes, keep siblings together, and strengthen protections to ensure every child’s safety and well-being,” said Rep. Soto. “Together, we can build a foster care system that puts children first and gives them the supportive environment they need to thrive.”
The CARE for Children Act has the support of The Baptist Children’s Village, Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranches, and the Coalition of Residential Excellence. 
“We believe the CARE Act not only expands the number of residential placement resources for children, but at the same time ensures safeguards and accountability to keep children safe. An additional strength of cottage family care is ability to keep sibling groups together. We are grateful that Rep. Steube is sensitive to the unmet needs of children in harm’s way and for the safeguards he has included in this legislation to ensure safety and well-being of children.” —Don Forrester, Executive Director, Coalition of Residential Excellence
“We are grateful for Congressman Steube, Congressman Dr. Dunn, Congresswoman Cammack, Congresswoman Wasserman-Schultz and Congressman Soto for seeing the need for safe, stable homes for the children from difficult places. We appreciate their commitment to quality homes that will provide strong foundations and a hope for the future.” —Maria Knapp, President, Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranches, Inc.
“Congress understands that the living conditions of some children require that they be removed and Congress refuses to ignore their plight.  The CARE Act reflects Congress’ commitment to these children buy engaging with and providing assistance to the state agencies that are working to provide home environments that are best suited and equipped to serve their unique needs.” —Sean Milner, Executive Director, The Baptist Children’s Village
Read the full bill text here.

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

Headline: Carter Introduces Bill Giving President Power to Fire Fed Chair

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) today introduced the Timely Oversight of Operations, Liquidity, Accountability, Targeting, and Effectiveness (TOO LATE) Act, a bill granting the president explicit power to fire the Chair of the Federal Reserve.  

Current law is ambiguous, stipulating that the president may fire the Chair of the Federal Reserve “for cause,” which some legal scholars have interpreted to mean malfeasance, neglect of duty, or inefficiency. This bill will explicitly broaden the scope of reasons a president may fire the Chair of the Federal Reserve.

“Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell needs to go, and the President should have the power to make that decision without question. Powell has been too late to cut rates, and it is directly harming the American people. With this bill, we will restore proper oversight of the Federal Reserve and give the president another tool in his tool chest to strengthen and grow the economy,” said Rep. Carter. 

Read full bill text here.

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

Headline: Carter Leads Resolution Honoring Fort Stewart Heroes in Wake of Recent Shooting

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Rep. Earl L. “Buddy” Carter (R-GA) today introduced a resolution honoring the six courageous Fort Stewart soldiers who subdued a gunman on August 6^th, 2025, saving lives and allowing medical professionals to tend to those wounded.

First Sergeant Joshua Arnold, Master Sergeant Justin Thomas, Staff Sergeant Melissa Taylor, Staff Sergeant Robert Pacheco, Sergeant Aaron Turner, and Sergeant Eve Rodarte swiftly jumped into action when a rogue gunman launched an unprovoked attack against soldiers on base, exemplifying the highest ideals of military service. Because of their bravery, no lives were lost in the shooting. 

“I am so proud of these six individuals for putting their own lives on the line to protect their fellow soldiers. While this devastating event should have never occurred, and we continue to pray for those wounded, it is encouraging that we have heroes in the First Congressional District who run towards danger when tragedy strikes. Thank you for your bravery and service to your country,” said Rep. Carter.

The resolution also expresses that Congress’ thoughts and prayers are with those injured in the attack and wishes them a full and speedy recovery.

Original Co-sponsors include: Reps. Sanford Bishop (D-GA), Rich McCormick (R-GA), Lucy McBath (D-GA), Barry Loudermilk (R-GA), Rick Allen (R-GA), and Mike Collins (R-GA). 

Read the full resolution text here. 

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

U.S. Virgin Islands — Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett concluded two successful “Breakfast with Stacey” community engagement events this week, meeting with Virgin Islands residents across St. Thomas/St. John and St. Croix to discuss federal legislation impacts, local challenges, and her advocacy priorities for the 119th Congress.   

The breakfast events, held Thursday at Victor’s Hideout on St. Thomas and Friday at the King Christian Hotel rooftop on St. Croix, provided residents with direct access to their congressional representative to discuss pressing community concerns and learn about available federal services.   

“These breakfast conversations are among my favorite events because they give us the opportunity to have real discussions about the issues that matter most to the Virgin Islands community,” said Congresswoman Plaskett. “The input I receive from these gatherings directly informs my work in Congress and helps ensure that Virgin Islands voices are heard in Washington.”  

During the events, Congresswoman Plaskett addressed recent federal legislation impacts, celebrating key victories including the permanent increase in the rum cover-over rate to $13.25 per proof gallon and successful protection against punitive port fees, while acknowledging challenges from the Republican Reconciliation Bill, H.R. 1’s cuts to Medicaid, Medicare, SNAP as well as higher education Pell Grant and loan repayment programs that will affect thousands of Virgin Islands families.   

Attendees raised concerns about healthcare access, senior housing, infrastructure challenges, housing affordability, and the high cost of living. Congresswoman Plaskett outlined her legislative priorities to address these issues, including the Affordable Shipping for All Act with several Members of Congress and the Supplemental Security Income Equality Act to extend benefits to territorial residents. 

“I heard directly from residents about infrastructure failures, hospital staffing shortages, and housing costs,” said Plaskett. “These local challenges require both federal advocacy and community solutions, which is why these face-to-face conversations are so critical.”   

Congresswoman Plaskett emphasized maximizing federal recovery opportunities, noting that the Biden-Harris Administration’s cost-share waiver has allocated billions in funding for schools, hospitals, water systems, and power grid improvements with reduced local matching requirements representing nearly $1.5 billion in savings for the local government.   

“We have an unprecedented window to complete our hurricane recovery while building economic growth,” Plaskett explained. “My district and Washington D.C. offices continues to provide assistance with federal agencies, and we are planning additional community forums because informed civic engagement is how we protect and advance our interests during these challenging times.”