MIL USHOR-2b Engine

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Bryan Steil (Wisconsin-1)

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Bryan Steil (WI-01), House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs Chairman Mike Bost (IL-12), Congressman Derrick Van Orden (WI-03), Congressman Jack Bergman (MI-01), Congressman Scott Fitzgerald (WI-05), Congressman Glenn Grothman (WI-06), and Congresswoman Gwen Moore (WI-04) introduced H.R. 3999, the American Flags to Honor Our Veterans Act.  This legislation recognizes our veterans and servicemembers by amending the U.S. Flag Code to allow American flags to be placed next to their graves year-round.

Municipal and private cemeteries will often remove American flags from the graves of veterans and servicemembers due to conflicting guidance in the U.S. Flag Code. When these flags are removed, they can sometimes be disposed of in an undignified and disrespectful manner. This can cause frustration and anger among Americans who believe they should be allowed to honor deceased servicemembers and veterans year-round. This legislation will allow U.S. flags to be placed in an upright position next to servicemembers’ graves throughout the year, ensuring families’ efforts to honor their deceased loved ones are respected by cemeteries.

“Veterans, servicemembers, and their families made sacrifices for our country that must be honored and remembered,” said Steil. “Families should be able to honor our veterans and fly our nation’s flag at the gravesites of those who have defended our freedom year-round. Thank you to each of my colleagues for supporting this legislation.”

“As Chairman of the House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs and a proud Marine, I believe honoring our veterans should never be limited by the squares on a calendar,” said Bost. “The American Flag is a symbol of sacrifice, and families should have the right to place one on their loved one’s grave year-round. I’m proud to support this commonsense bill ensuring our heroes receive the respect they’ve earned.”

“Families and loved ones shouldn’t have to fight to keep an American flag at the grave of someone who wore the uniform. The American Flags to Honor Our Veterans Act ensures that servicemembers can be honored with our nation’s flag 365 days a year, no matter where they’re laid to rest. It’s a respectful way to preserve the memory of those who served and protect a tradition that means so much to so many Americans,” stated Fitzgerald.

“Family members often honor their memories of their veterans and service members with an American flag at their gravesite. Rep. Steil’s bipartisan bill will ensure this can happen every day, which is why I’m proud to support such a meaningful effort for those who have served our country,” said Moore.

Background:

H.R. 3999 amends the U.S. flag code (4 U.S.C. §6) to expressly state that if the American flag is displayed in a secured, upright position directly adjacent to the grave site of a deceased servicemember or veteran it should not be removed. 

The Flag Code provides guidance provides cemeteries and officials with appropriate discretion to manage their facilities as they see fit.

CLICK HERE to read the bill.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Bryan Steil (Wisconsin-1)

Muskego, WI – Today, Congressman Bryan Steil (WI-01) joined Congressman Scott Fitzgerald (WI-05) and community leaders for the dedication of the Colonel Hans Christian Heg Post Office in Muskego, Wisconsin. Steil joined Fitzgerald in sponsoring H.R. 7199, which was signed into law renaming the post office to honor Col. Heg, a noted abolitionist and civil war hero, following the destruction of his statute during riots in 2020.

“Colonel Heg was an abolitionist, patriot, and military leader who died fighting to end slavery,” said Steil. “The destruction of his statue in Madison was a sad chapter of the 2020 riots. I’m proud to have helped lead legislation that will honor Col. Heg for generations to come. Thank you to Rep. Fitzgerald, our local officials, and my colleagues in Wisconsin’s congressional delegation for their work to preserve Col. Heg’s legacy.”

Representative Steil speaking at the ceremony

 

The plaque dedicating the post office after Col. Heg

 

“Colonel Hans Christian Heg exemplified courage, patriotism, and selfless service to our nation,” said Fitzgerald. “It’s only fitting that the Muskego Post Office will bear his name as a lasting tribute to his leadership in the Civil War and his deep ties to Wisconsin. This dedication honors not just a local hero, but the enduring values he fought to defend.”

   

Background:

• During the June 2020 riots in Madison, the statue of Colonel Heg that stood on Wisconsin Capitol grounds was destroyed by protestors.
• Col. Heg was a Norwegian immigrant who spent his childhood in Muskego, Wisconsin and Norway, Wisconsin. The Heg family immigrated to America and settled on the shores of Lake Muskego. Heg led his community and state as an anti-slavery activist. A staunch abolitionist throughout his entire life, Heg also led an anti-slave catching militia in effort to protect escaped slaves.
• In 1861, Heg was appointed Colonel of the 15th Wisconsin Infantry, a Scandinavian regiment. The 15th was recruited to fight for the Union against the Confederacy. The regiment shipped out from Camp Randall to the South in 1862. Heg and the 15th quickly gained attention for their bravery on the battlefield.
• In 1863, Heg was mortally wounded in Chickamauga, Georgia leading a charge against the Confederate lines. After his death, the Wisconsin State Journal reported that “The State has sent no braver soldier, and no truer patriot to aid in this mighty struggle for national unity, than Hans Christian Heg.” Col. Heg was the highest-ranked Wisconsin officer killed in combat during the Civil War.
• Congressman Steil originally introduced this proposal in 2020.
• The legislation was led by Congressman Fitzgerald and cosponsored by Steil, and the rest of Wisconsin’s congressional delegation to honor the sacrifice and service of Col. Heg. 

 

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Bennie G Thompson (D-MS)

July 2, 2025

Washington, D.C. – Today, Rep. Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS), former Chairman of the Select Committee to Investigate the January 6th Attack on the United States Capitol, released the following statement on news the Trump Justice Department has hired a January 6 defendant and rioter who encouraged the murder of law enforcement: “News that a disgraced FBI agent and right-wing extremist charged with encouraging the murder of police officers on January 6 is now working at the Department of Justice is not only an insult to every honorable law enforcement officer across the country – it is an insult to our democracy and all those that have fought to preserve it.   It also makes it clear that political violence won’t just be excused under this administration, it will be celebrated and awarded.  Mr. Wise should have faced justice and served time in jail for his crimes. He should be nowhere near DOJ – let alone on the so called “weaponization” task force – plotting revenge on behalf of President Trump.”

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Bennie G Thompson (D-MS)

July 3, 2025

BOLTON, MS – Today, Congressman Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS) announced two federal grants awarded through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to support critical airport infrastructure improvements in Mississippi’s Second Congressional District. The City of Kosciusko has been awarded $600,000 under the FY25 Airport Improvement Program (AIP) to enhance operations at the Kosciusko-Attala County Airport (OSX). The funding will support multiple infrastructure projects, including: Reconstructing 200 feet of existing hangar access taxilane pavement that has reached the end of its useful life; Constructing a new 2,500 square foot sponsor-owned hangar for aircraft storage, helping the airport generate revenue and remain self-sustaining; Extending the existing hangar access taxilane an additional 35 feet to provide access to a non-exclusive hangar development area, bringing the airport into compliance with current FAA standards. Additionally, the City of Winona and Montgomery County will receive $139,320 for improvements at the Winona-Montgomery County Airport (5A6). This grant will fund: Construction of a new 3,600 square foot sponsor-owned hangar to support aircraft storage and generate revenue; Reconstruction of the precision approach path indicator systems for Runway 03/21 at both ends, ensuring continued safety and reliability as the systems have reached the end of their operational life. The grants are part of the FAA’s Airport Improvement Program, which provides funding for the planning and development of public-use airports across the United States.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Bennie G Thompson (D-MS)

Washington, D.C. – Today, Rep. Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS) voted against House Republicans’ ‘One Big Ugly Bill’ (H.R. 1).  The legislation includes drastic cuts to Medicaid, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), College Education, Grants and Loans, Veterans Benefits and other programs essential for Mississippians to enjoy a basic quality of life. 

Congressman Thompson releases the following statement:

“From the beginning of my public service, I’ve made one thing clear:  My vote will never hurt people who struggle to make ends meet through no fault of their own.  Additionally, as the richest country in the world, we should not penalize people who have not had the same benefits as others by passing legislation targeted at them.  Donald Trump makes no bones about his dislike for people who don’t travel in his circle.

“The Republican bill cuts Medicaid, slashes SNAP, and forces working families to pay more so the wealthy can get another tax break.  This bill takes food out of children’s mouths, strips health care from our seniors, and puts college further out of reach for young people just trying to get ahead.

“For my district, this means closed hospitals, nursing homes, families struggling to afford groceries, and educational opportunities deferred.  Republicans priorities are very simple: tax cuts for wealthy and nothing for the people who make this country work.

“The people of Mississippi, and this country deserve better.  I will keep fighting to stop the cruelty pushed by Trump and House Republicans, and I will continue working for a government that delivers for working folks.”

WHAT THIS BILL MEANS FOR MISSISSIPPI:

Food Assistance on the Chopping Block

In Mississippi’s Second Congressional District, 139,000 people are at risk of losing some or all of their SNAP benefits.  This bill includes the largest proposed cuts to food assistance in our nation’s history, putting countless families at risk of going hungry.

Health Care Coverage Slashed
The bill cuts more than $1 trillion from Medicaid, Medicare, and the Affordable Care Act.  Over 153,000 Mississippians would lose health care coverage, including seniors, people with disabilities, and working families.

Rural Hospitals in Danger
Across the country, 300 rural hospitals could be forced to close.  In Mississippi, 8 hospitals are at risk of shutting down, including 4 in the Second Congressional District.  These closures would leave many families without access to basic medical care.

Higher Education Out of Reach
The bill eliminates Grad PLUS loans and reduces Pell Grant support.  More than 50,000 students in Mississippi could lose their Pell Grants, including over 20,000 students in the Second District.  That means higher costs and fewer opportunities for those trying to earn a college degree.

Jobs Lost and Bills Raised
Mississippi could lose 22,000 manufacturing and energy jobs under this proposal.  On top of that, families would face an average increase of $540 per year on their energy bills.  Meanwhile, millionaires would receive an average of $80,000 each year in new tax breaks.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Bennie G Thompson (D-MS)

BOLTON, MS – Congressman Bennie G. Thompson (MS-02) is pleased to announce that the National Science Foundation (NSF) has awarded Tougaloo College a grant totaling $2,245,846.00 for the project titled “Implementation Project: Strengthening the STEM Pathway through a Holistic Multi-layer Approach.” The award, under the direction of Dr. Manliang Feng, will begin on August 1, 2025.

This funding will support a comprehensive institutional effort aimed at increasing the number of students earning undergraduate degrees in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), while also building research capacity in STEM education.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Bennie G Thompson (D-MS)

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Sam Graves (6th District of Missouri)

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Sam Graves (MO-06) released the following statement after voting for the One Big Beautiful Bill Act:

“The One Big Beautiful Bill Act delivers historic tax relief for families, seniors and American workers. It cuts wasteful spending, secures the border, and unleashes American energy, while ensuring we have a strong military. As Chairman of the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, I’m proud that we were able to include major investments in the U.S. Coast Guard to strengthen our border and national security. It will also jumpstart the process of modernizing our nation’s aging air traffic control system and hiring more air traffic controllers to keep the flying public safe. This bill makes good on President Trump’s America First agenda and I look forward to seeing it signed into law.”

 

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Lloyd Smucker (PA-16)

WASHINGTON — Reps. Lloyd Smucker and Vern Buchanan, Chair of the Health Subcommittee on Ways and Means, announced that he introduced the Hospital Inpatient Services Modernization Act alongside Dwight Evans (D-Pa.). Senators Tim Scott (R-S.C.) and Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.) introduced companion legislation in the Senate. This bipartisan legislation would enable hospitals to extend successful “Hospital at Home” programs for an additional five years. 

In November 2020, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) established the Acute Hospital Care at Home waiver to provide hospitals with increased flexibility to care for certain patients from the comfort and convenience of their homes, rather than in a hospital setting. According to the American Hospital Association, this model has been proven to “reduce costs, improve outcomes and enhance the patient experience.” 

“Innovative care models, like delivering acute care through Hospital at Home, provide patients high-quality care at lower costs. Extending this commonsense policy is a clear win for both patients and taxpayers. Hospital systems across my district have successfully used Hospital at Home to care for patients safely and effectively. Congress should come together again to extend these provisions and give more patients the flexibility to receive acute care and recover comfortably in their own homes,” said Rep. Smucker. 

“Our nation is getting sicker and sicker, but programs like ‘Hospital at Home’ allow us to treat patients more efficiently while delivering high-quality care at a lower cost,” said Buchanan. “Home health services are especially crucial for the nearly 200,000 seniors in my district. The Hospital Inpatient Services Modernization Act would ensure that more than 200 hospitals across 34 states, including 23 in Florida, can continue participating in this program and provide quality care to those in need. We must ensure this life-changing model remains available for years to come.” 

A recent report from CMS shows that allowing patients to be treated in a more familiar environment and routine accelerates recovery time, lowers the mortality rate and reduces the risk of hospital-acquired infections and falls. This legislation would extend the current hospital-at-home waiver program through 2030, allowing hospitals to continue participating and providing quality care to patients. 

The legislation also requires the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and CMS to conduct a comprehensive study comparing home-based care and inpatient care across several key criteria, including care quality, rates of infection, hospital readmission and levels of satisfaction among patients and their caregivers. Based on the findings of this evaluation, CMS would then be directed to issue formal health and safety regulations to govern the program moving forward. 

“The American healthcare system must evolve to meet the needs of the patients in the 21st century,” said Senator Scott. “Hospital-at-home care provides better outcomes for patients while reducing costs. This legislation ensures that successful programs like this can continue to serve families across South Carolina and the nation.” 

“This legislation is about protecting access to quality health care, lowering costs for patients, and improving the health and well-being of our family and neighbors,” said Senator Warnock. “I will always work to lower costs and increase health care access for Georgians, and I urge my colleagues to support this bipartisan effort.” 

“The Hospital at Home program has been working for patients of Redeemer Health in the Philadelphia area, and for patients of other health systems across the country. I’m happy to partner with my Ways and Means Committee colleague to continue, improve and expand this program that helps a lot of people,” said Rep. Evans. 

The legislation is supported by the American Hospital Association. 

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Lloyd Smucker (PA-16)

WASHINGTON—Rep. Lloyd Smucker (PA-11) voted in favor of H.R. 1, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. It was approved for final passage in the House by a vote of 218to 214. 

Rep. Smucker released the following statement after voting in favor of the legislation: 

“Congressional Republicans, working with President Trump, have delivered on our promise to extend tax relief for hardworking families and small businesses. The One Big Beautiful Bill puts more money back in families’ pockets, provides tax certainty for small businesses, secures our border, unleashes America’s energy potential, and strengthens our national security — all while producing the greatest savings of any reconciliation legislation in our nation’s history.

This legislation marks real progress in slowing the growth of Washington’s spending and enacts the pro-growth policies needed to create new opportunities and lay the foundation for a stronger economy. By tapping into the promise of greater economic growth, we can strengthen America’s financial future and make it easier for families to plan and build a better life. I remain committed to changing America’s fiscal trajectory so future generations can thrive.”

Background on the One Big Beautiful Bill 

Working Families Receive Permanent Tax Relief, courtesy of the Committee on Ways and Means 

• Makes permanent the lower tax rates and brackets for working families, preventing a tax increase that would have occurred at the end of the year.
• Average family of four in Pennsylvania will see take-home pay increase between $7,700 and $13,100, according to the Council of Economic Advisers.
• No tax on tips, overtime pay, car loan interest, and tax relief for seniors will put more money in Americans’ pockets each year.
• Locks in and further boosts the doubled Child Tax Credit to $2,200 for more than 40 million American families.
• Locks in and further boosts the doubled Standard Deduction, increasing it to $31,500 for families.
• Supports working families and small businesses by expanding access to the child care credit and making permanent the paid leave tax credit. Enhances the Adoption tax credit and indexes it for inflation to help more families experience the joy of adoption and grows the child and dependent care credit as well as Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs).
• Puts American families in control of their health care by expanding Health Savings Accounts (HSAs). 

The legislation contains provisions authored by Rep. Smucker, including: 

• Permanent Tax Relief and Certainty for Small Businesses: Provides permanency to the small business tax deduction, known as Section 199A of the tax code. Smucker’s Main Street Tax Certainty Act has broad support among stakeholders in PA-11 and across the nation.
   
• Expanded Support for Individuals with Disabilities Using ABLE Accounts: Smucker’s bipartisan ENABLE Act will allow individuals with disabilities and their families to save and invest in tax-advantaged accounts without jeopardizing their eligibility for essential federal support programs like Medicaid and Supplemental Security Income. 
   
• Improved Access to Primary Care: The Ways and Means Committee’s proposals include Smucker’s Primary Care Enhancement Act, which would clarify provisions of the Internal Revenue Code to remove barriers for individuals with HSAs from using those funds to access Direct Primary Care, a health care delivery model which provides high-quality care at lower cost for individuals of all ages and incomes across America.

Additional background on key policies in the One Big Beautiful Bill: 

Securing our Border

• Makes significant investments in personnel, resources, and technology to maintain operational control of the border and enforce America’s immigration laws, building on President Trump’s administration’s immediate work to make America safer.

Unleashing American Energy Dominance 

• Acts to ramp up American energy production including by cutting bureaucracy and streamlining permitting processes.
• Ends wasteful spending and ineffective energy programs including those in the “Green New Deal.” 

Achieving Peace Through Strength 

• Invests in America’s arsenal to ensure our selfless servicemen and women continue to be the best equipped fighting force in the world ready to respond to any threat, including targeted investments in improving servicemember quality of life programs.
• Expands naval capabilities, restocks American munitions, supports soldier readiness.
• Defends America through the creation of a Golden Dome missile defense system and continued funding of nuclear deterrence programs. 

Preserving And Protecting Critical Safety Net Programs and Encouraging Personal Accountability

• Preserves critical programs like Medicaid for those truly in need.
• Roots out waste, fraud, and abuse of federal safety net programs to ensure they remain accessible to those in need.
• Asks able-bodied adults without dependents to work, volunteer, pursue education, or attend job training for 20 hours per week to remain eligible.
• Ensures states cannot support illegal immigrants through Medicaid.

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