MIL USHOR-2b Engine

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11)

WASHINGTON, DC — Today, Representative Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11) reintroduced the Donut Dollies Congressional Gold Medal Act to honor a group of women who risked their lives supporting troops on the frontlines in Vietnam. The Donut Dollies were a group of 627 women who traveled millions of miles across Vietnam to boost morale and provide emotional support to American troops — this bill would recognize their sacrifices with Congress’s highest honor.

“The Donut Dollies were on the frontlines of the Vietnam War, experiencing many of the same difficult conditions as active duty service members on the frontlines. However, the Donut Dollies’ heroism and bravery have never been honored with the recognition they deserve. I have been proud to work alongside the Donut Dollies and New Jersey veterans to reintroduce this legislation, and will continue to fight for long-overdue recognition of their service and sacrifices,” said Rep. Sherrill.

“The Donut Dollies spent countless hours traveling by jeep, truck, boat, and helicopter to often remote bases throughout South Vietnam, and they were subject to the same sniper fire, mortars, and rocket attacks as service members. Yet through all the dangers and hardships they faced, these young women remained calm, courageous, and respectful of the military situation. They proved themselves brave, strong, and compassionate – and their exemplary efforts in a war zone undoubtedly helped to open doors and expand the scope of women’s roles in the military.” said Gail J. McGovern, American Red Cross, Chairman of the Board of Governors.

“The Dollies’ work was in an active combat zone, dangerous, and some died fulfilling their mission…..Donut Dollies must be recognized for what they did and the importance of their presence on troop morale.” said Brigadier General Doug Satterfield, U.S. Army (retired).

Original co-sponsors of this legislation include Representatives André Carson (IN-07), Gerry Connolly (VA-11), Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), Andy Harris (MD-01), Chrissy Houlahan (PA-6), Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), and Andrea Salinas (OR-06).

During the Vietnam War, hundreds of women from the American Red Cross, known as the “Donut Dollies,” served overseas and provided critical support to over 280,500 U.S. servicemembers. These Red Cross workers, most of whom were between the ages of 21-24, were part of the Red Cross Supplemental Recreational Activities Overseas (SRAO) program. Throughout the war, the Donut Dollies traveled over 2,125,000 miles by helicopter, truck, and jeep to reach servicemembers and comfort those who had experienced the horrors of war. The Donut Dollies program was started in World War II and returned to support the conflicts in Korea and Vietnam.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11)

WASHINGTON, DC — Representative Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11) is calling for inspectors general at eight federal agencies to open investigations into Elon Musk and the Department of Government Efficiency’s (DOGE) conflicts of interest. Inspectors General are independent watchdogs at federal agencies who investigate waste, fraud, abuse, and corruption. This comes as part of Rep. Sherrill’s ongoing efforts to stand up for New Jersey and fight back against Elon Musk and Donald Trump in Washington.

“Elon Musk is not only the world’s richest man but also one of the federal government’s largest contractors — handing the keys of our government over to him reeks of corruption and vast conflicts of interest. He is working to cut Social Security and Medicare, strip funding from our public schools, and fire the government employees who keep our food, roads, and skies safe — all while his own companies get sweetheart deals. I am calling on the independent watchdogs at eight of our federal agencies to investigate Musk and DOGE’s actions to ensure that an unelected billionaire cannot steal New Jersey families’ federal tax dollars to turn an even greater profit. The self-dealing must be put to an end,” said Rep. Sherrill.

Read the full letter here or below:

March 21, 2025

Dear Inspectors General:

I write to you today with concerns regarding potential conflicts of interest and use of federal resources to benefit private interests within a number of federal agencies. Specifically, I am concerned that Elon Musk – named as the head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) by President Trump during his Joint Address to Congress on March 4, 2025 – continues to hold financial interests in companies directly affected by recent DOGE and federal agency actions. Managing a governmental body that is directly affecting an individual’s own personal finances is an unacceptable conflict of interest and degradation of the public trust. I ask that you review the actions of DOGE and Mr. Musk in your departments and agencies where there are potential conflicts of interest regarding Mr. Musk’s companies to ensure that improper or illegal behavior to benefit those companies has not taken place.

Mr. Musk currently serves as a Special Government Employee (SGE), allowing him to avoid required divestments of financial interests that may conflict with his federal work in the Trump Administration, unlike other federal civilian employees. As the head of DOGE, Mr. Musk is leading the Trump Administration’s efforts to eliminate entire agencies, cut contracts with the private sector and nonprofits, and fire career civilian employees – many of which have been challenged and halted in court for unconstitutionally circumventing the power granted to Congress. To carry out these actions, Mr. Musk and DOGE have been granted vast authority to implement contract and staffing decisions at a large number of federal agencies with limited oversight.

However, Mr. Musk’s companies continue to receive billions of dollars in federal contracts. A review of federal records conducted by the Washington Post found that Mr. Musk’s companies have received at least $38 billion in federal funds, including $6.3 billion in 2024 alone. The 52 current federal contracts with Mr. Musk’s companies would pay $11.8 billion over the next several years, representing a clear conflict of interest as Mr. Musk leads the effort to cut tens of billions of dollars in federal contracts. 

Additionally, Mr. Musk’s companies have been the subject of several recent complaints and investigations by your departments and agencies. Both the National Labor Relations Board and the Securities and Exchange Commission have active, ongoing cases against Mr. Musk’s companies for unlawful firings and securities violations, which could lead to millions of dollars in penalties if successful.  The involvement of DOGE and Mr. Musk at these agencies, when they are investigating his companies and considering layoffs that could greatly impede their ability to win cases, represents a clear conflict of interest that the public deserves to have investigated.

Given the broad authority that Mr. Musk has been granted by President Trump at agencies that manage contracts and regulatory proceedings involving Mr. Musk’s companies, the potential for conflicts of interest and self-dealing is significant. Specifically, Mr. Musk has the following potential conflicts of interest with your departments and agencies:

Department of Transportation

In 2023, the Federal Aviation Administration awarded Verizon a $2.4 billion contract to upgrade its communications infrastructure over 15 years. However, in February 2025, Mr. Musk posted on X that he wanted to pivot the FAA’s communications system to Starlink, a system wholly owned by Musk’s SpaceX, and there are ongoing discussions within the FAA about handing the contract to Mr. Musk’s company. At the same time, he approved a shipment of 4,000 Starlink terminals to the FAA, with one system already installed at an FAA facility in Atlantic City. This abrupt shift in the FAA’s procurement policy, with a separate company already contracted to provide communications equipment, towards a company owned by Mr. Musk presents serious self-dealing questions about Mr. Musk using federal funds to support his own businesses.

Department of State

In February 2025, the State Department indicated that it intended to purchase approximately $400 million worth of armored Tesla Cybertrucks to transport State Department personnel overseas. After public reporting of the planned purchase, the State Department said it would not proceed with the contract and claimed that it had been initiated during the Biden Administration. Public reporting, however, showed that in November 2024, the State Department had only approved $483,000 to purchase electric vehicles, less than one eighth the amount ultimately announced in February 2025. This dramatic increase in a proposed contract for Tesla is deeply troubling given Mr. Musk’s influence over federal contracts and spending. 

Department of Commerce

In March 2025, the Department of Commerce announced that it would be changing requirements for the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program – designed to extend broadband coverage to remote parts of the country – that will expand access to the program for Mr. Musk’s Starlink service and open the door to millions of dollars in federal contracts for Mr. Musk’s business. The program rules were created to favor fiber-optic cable lines attached to homes, until abruptly being changed by the Administration last month. Evan Feinman, the director of the BEAD Program, wrote to staff in a departing email that Starlink would offer slower speeds at higher costs to households than fiber-optic cables.

Department of Defense

SpaceX is one of the Department of Defense’s primary contractors for space launch services, with DoD providing at least $7.6 billion in funding for SpaceX since 2003. This includes contracts of $733 million for the National Security Space Launch program awarded in 2024 and $23 million to provide SpaceX’s Starlink internet service to Ukraine. Additionally, public reporting has indicated that SpaceX has also been awarded nearly $2 billion worth of classified contracts by DoD. As DoD has prioritized space systems development and operations in recent years, it has increasingly come to rely on SpaceX’s launch capabilities. Public reporting indicates that DOGE is currently reviewing DoD contracts and budgets, providing the staff the opportunity to potentially improperly funnel additional funding to SpaceX contracts. 

National Aeronautics and Space Administration

Like the Department of Defense, NASA maintains extensive contracts with SpaceX for space launch services and other products. On February 1, 2025, after Mr. Musk began his work at DOGE, NASA announced it had selected SpaceX for an approximately $100 million contract to provide launch services for the Near-Earth Object Surveyor mission, which will monitor objects that could potentially impact Earth. Mr. Musk has also advocated for the early dismantling of the International Space Station in the next two years, which SpaceX is currently contracted to deorbit in early 2031. In total, SpaceX CEO Gwynne Shotwell has said the company has approximately $15 billion in NASA contracts. This number is likely to increase as NASA continues to rely heavily on SpaceX for key components of its Artemis Moon exploration program. Public reporting indicates that DOGE staff are currently embedded in NASA developing budget and personnel cuts, giving them the opportunity to potentially impact future SpaceX contracts. 

General Services Administration

In February 2025, the General Services Administration installed a Starlink terminal at the agency’s Washington headquarters at the request of DOGE staffers and for their use. The installation happened within days of the request, compared to the typical weeks- or months-long process needed for security and procurement review. DOGE and GSA have not provided any explanation for why GSA’s existing internet would be insufficient to support the handful of DOGE staffers working in the GSA headquarters. In addition, Starlink terminals have now been installed across the White House complex. Specific requests by DOGE staff and Mr. Musk to use federal funds for the purchase of equipment manufactured by Mr. Musk’s companies, or to expand the visibility of this equipment by high-profile usage at government facilities, raise significant conflict of interest questions.

Securities and Exchange Commission

In January 2025, the Securities and Exchange Commission filed a lawsuit against Mr. Musk alleging that he misled investors about his purchase of Twitter in 2022. The SEC previously won a securities fraud settlement against Mr. Musk requiring him and Tesla to each pay $20 million in penalties. SEC employees were among the federal employees offered $50,000 “buyouts” to voluntarily resign, which could impact the ability of the agency to bring and win enforcement actions like those filed against Musk. DOGE is currently active at the SEC and is reportedly working to cut additional SEC staff in the coming months.

National Labor Relations Board

The National Labor Relations Board is currently considering a case against SpaceX brought by eight employees who allege they were illegally fired for criticizing Mr. Musk. In response, SpaceX filed a suit challenging the constitutionality of the NLRB entirely in 2024. The NLRB has also filed complaints against Tesla accusing the automaker of illegally discouraging workers from forming a union, including tweets by Mr. Musk himself threatening the compensation of employees who unionized. In February 2025, the General Services Administration – acting on behalf of DOGE – attempted to unilaterally cancel the lease for the NLRB’s Buffalo office, which would greatly impede their ability to proceed with labor protection cases. President Trump also illegally fired an NLRB board member – before she was reinstated by a federal judge in March – which would have paralyzed the agency’s ability to hear cases like the ones pending against SpaceX and Tesla.

Across a large number of agencies and regulatory bodies, the Trump Administration and DOGE have abruptly shifted federal policy to favor companies owned by Mr. Musk and limit the effectiveness of bodies actively investigating Mr. Musk. Given the lack of financial divestment by Mr. Musk or recusal from DOGE activities on the basis of conflicts of interest, these actions paint a disturbing picture whereby Mr. Musk is actively profiting from his role within the federal government. It is essential that our constituents know that federal officials are acting in the best interests of the American people, not their own financial interests. 

As a result, I ask that you investigate the policy and procurement decisions made by Mr. Musk, DOGE, and the Trump Administration within your agencies to determine whether any have been made to directly benefit Mr. Musk’s companies, and to determine whether any of Mr. Musk’s financial conflicts of interest have impacted his decision-making as the head of DOGE. I look forward to staying in touch as you conduct these reviews and ensure that the federal government is not used to benefit the financial interests of officials within the Trump Administration.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28)

LAREDO, TX – Today, Congressman Henry Cuellar, Ph.D. (TX-28) announced $20 million in federal funding for water infrastructure in Laredo as well as other funding priorities secured in the recent government funding bill. He also announced the passage of legislation that he helped champion that restores full social security benefits for our public servants.

“We successfully secured integral funding and support through the recent government bill to address critical water infrastructure needs in Laredo,” said Dr. Cuellar, a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee. “This achievement was made possible by a bipartisan Texas delegation letter that I led on the issue of Laredo’s water infrastructure needs to both Democratic and Republican leadership. I want to thank the House Appropriations Committee leadership for including funding for these vital projects in the recent government funding bill. These initiatives represent a significant step forward in enhancing our water infrastructure and supporting our communities. Let’s continue working together to build a better future for Laredo and beyond.”

The government funding bill includes $300 million for the Army Corps of Engineers’ environmental infrastructure assistance program, which, combined with the recent Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) authorities, secured by the Congressman, will support $20 million in funding for wastewater infrastructure and water supply in Webb County. This program supports the design and construction of infrastructure in specified municipalities, counties, and states. Projects encompass water distribution works, stormwater management, surface water protection, and environmental restoration, among others. 

Congressman Cuellar also announced the following federal funding priorities secured in the recent government funding bill: 

• $110 billion in overall disaster assistance for relief efforts across the country including:
  • $10 billion in economic assistance for farmers and ranchers,
  • $21 billion in disaster assistance for farmers and ranchers,
  • $2.2 billion in federal funding to support small businesses and individuals through the Small Business Administration disaster loan program,
• $250 million in federal funding for the International Boundary and Water Commission for emergency water infrastructure repairs and to address sewage contamination of United States communities. 

Furthermore, Congressman Cuellar announced that he helped secure language in the government funding bill to provide economic support to farmers who have been negatively impacted by Mexico’s failure to deliver water to the United States in accordance with the 1944 Water Treaty.  

Finally, Congressman Cuellar announced that he helped pass the bipartisan Social Security Fairness Act of 2023, legislation that restores social security benefits for public servants including teachers, firefighters, police officers, and postal workers. 

The Social Security Fairness Act, which Congressman Cuellar championed, repeals provisions that reduce Social Security benefits for individuals who receive other benefits, such as a pension from a state or local government.

Specifically, the bill eliminates the government pension offset, which in various instances reduces Social Security benefits for spouses, widows, and widowers who also receive government pensions of their own.

The bill also eliminates the windfall elimination provision, which in some instances reduces Social Security benefits for individuals who also receive a pension or disability benefit from an employer that did not withhold Social Security taxes.

The Social Security Fairness Act of 2023 has passed both the House of Representatives and Senate and is on its way to the President’s desk to be signed into law.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28)

Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28) announced that the Social Security Fairness Act has been signed into law, legislation that he supported as a co-sponsor, helped pass, and supported as a co-signer of a discharge petition to force a floor vote. This bill removes provisions that reduce Social Security benefits for teachers, law enforcement officers, firefighters, postal workers, and other critical public servants. 

“The time is now to help our teachers, law enforcement, postal workers, and other public servants,” said Dr. Cuellar. “I am pleased to have supported public servants in my district by co-sponsoring and passing legislation that ensures they get the benefits they’ve rightfully earned, which has now been signed into law by the President. Over the years, I’ve worked across the aisle to restore full social security benefits for our workers and to get this bill across the finish line. I am thankful for the support from my colleagues in helping push this legislation through Congress. I want to thank Congressman Graves and Congresswoman Spanberger for their leadership in pushing this legislation forward.”

The Social Security Fairness Act repeals provisions that reduce Social Security benefits for individuals who receive other benefits, such as a pension from a state or local government.

Specifically, the bill eliminates the government pension offset, which in various instances reduces Social Security benefits for spouses, widows, and widowers who also receive government pensions of their own.

The bill also eliminates the windfall elimination provision, which in some instances reduces Social Security benefits for individuals who also receive a pension or disability benefit from an employer that did not withhold Social Security taxes.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28)

Washington, DC – Today, U.S. Congressman Henry Cuellar (D-TX-28), Congressman Tony Gonzales (R-TX-23), Congresswoman Veronica Escobar (D-TX-16), Congressman Vicente Gonzalez (D-TX-34), and Congressman Gabe Vasquez (D-NM-2) introduced the Land Port of Entry (LPOE) Modernization Trust Fund Act. This legislation will establish a trust fund that will be used to (1) construct new ports of entry, (2) expand and improve existing ports of entry, (3) procure technology for inspecting and processing traffic passing through ports of entry, and (4) hire U.S. Customs and Border Protection staff. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will also establish the Land Port of Entry Modernization Oversight Board to advise DHS on how to use the trust fund and to review the trust fund’s expenditures.

“While waterway-based ports of entry have long had the benefit of a consistent source of federal resources via the authorization of a similar trust fund, our overburdened land-based ports of entry have struggled. The LPOE Modernization Trust Fund Act is needed to properly redistribute much needed resources to LPOE facilities and to ensure the United States’ long-term economic prosperity through international trade,” said Congressman Henry Cuellar. “Improved trade infrastructure along the southern border is critical. 68% of all trade between the United States and Mexico occurs along the Texas-Mexico border, including $129.6 billion in U.S. exports to Mexico and $142.7 billion in U.S. imports from Mexico. The LPOE Trust Fund will expand, improve, and construct new U.S. ports of entry and support infrastructure to accommodate high volumes of commercial, vehicle, and pedestrian traffic. It will also help critical transit and trade facilities more efficiently complete the inspection and processing of commercial, vehicle, and pedestrian traffic. I applaud my fellow border colleagues for working together in a bipartisan manner to support crucial investments in our land port infrastructure.”

“Land ports of entry do not just serve as the frontlines for defending against illicit smuggling of drugs and other contraband—they are essential to facilitating international trade and boosting our nation’s economy. The Land Port of Entry (LPOE) Modernization Trust Fund Act will ensure there are resources available solely dedicated to making much-needed improvements to our nation’s land ports of entry infrastructure. I am proud to have worked with my colleagues across the aisle to introduce this important legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives,” said Congressman Tony Gonzales.

“South Texas is one of the main arteries for trade, travel, and tourism in the nation, but its ports of entry sorely need to be expanded and updated to accommodate the travel demand and increasing traffic in the region,” said Congressman Vicente Gonzalez. “I’m proud to partner with Congressman Cuellar to advance legislation that would provide federal funding to adequately staff, update, and create additional ports of entry in the United States. We have made historic investments in our nation’s infrastructure in recent years, and we can’t let our land ports of entry fall by the wayside any longer.”

“The infrastructure at our ports of entry is in dire need of upgrades,” said Congresswoman Veronica Escobar. “We live in a country where our airports are revered in our communities, offering world-class customer service without sacrificing comfort or security; I want that same sentiment expressed when it comes to our ports. I’m thrilled to join my fellow co-sponsors of this legislation to use funds to make the necessary investments to modernize the technology and infrastructure at our ports.”

“Modernizing our land ports of entry is essential to strengthening our border communities, enhancing security, and boosting our economy,” said Congressman Gabe Vasquez. “In New Mexico, investments in ports like the Santa Teresa Port of Entry mean more efficient trade, stronger infrastructure, and better jobs for our communities. This legislation takes a proactive approach to ensure our land ports have the resources they need to improve technology, expand capacity, and keep pace with growing demand. I’m proud to work alongside my colleagues to advance this bipartisan effort that supports both economic growth and border security.”

“The Border Trade Alliance thanks Rep. Cuellar and this bipartisan group of lawmakers for working to ensure our land border ports of entry are properly resourced to keep pace with today’s trade and travel volumes. Adequately staffed ports of entry with modern inspection technology and updated infrastructure are essential to the economic health of the entire country. We strongly support this bill, and we look forward to working with Rep. Cuellar and the original cosponsors to see this important legislation through to passage,” said Britton Mullen, President of the Border Trade Alliance.

“Trucks move 76% of the freight that crosses our borders with Canada and Mexico.  When supply chain bottlenecks arise, they raise prices for consumers, delay shipments for businesses, cause headaches for truck drivers, and jeopardize American jobs,” said Henry Hanscom, Senior Vice President of Legislative Affairs for the American Trucking Associations. “Modernizing our land ports of entry is a key component of building a 21st century transportation network befitting the world’s greatest nation. The trucking industry thanks Reps. Cuellar, Gonzalez, Escobar, Gonzales, and Vasquez for directing attention and investments to these important gateways so that cross-border freight can move safely and efficiently.”

“The Land Port of Entry Modernization Trust Fund Act is a game-changer for the trucking industry in Texas and across the nation. The Texas Trucking Association applauds longtime friend to the industry and champion of the Texas economy, Congressman Cuellar in his outstanding leadership in championing this legislation and his dedication to modernizing our ports. This will revolutionize cross-border trade, enhance security, and drive economic growth,” said John D. Esparza, President & CEO of the Texas Trucking Association.

For more information on the Land Port of Entry (LPOE) Modernization Trust Fund Act, click here.

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Washington, DC – Hoy, el Congresista Henry Cuellar (D-TX-28), el Congresista Tony Gonzales (R-TX-23), la Congresista Veronica Escobar (D-TX-16), el Congresista Vicente Gonzalez (D-TX-34), y el Congresista Gabe Vasquez (D-NM-2) presentaron la Ley del Fondo Fiduciario para la Modernización de los Puertos Terrestres de Entrada (LPOE). Esta legislación establecerá un fondo fiduciario que se utilizará para (1) construir nuevos puertos de entrada, (2) ampliar y mejorar los puertos de entrada existentes, (3) adquirir tecnología para inspeccionar y procesar el tráfico que pasa por los puertos de entrada, y (4) contratar personal de Aduanas y Protección Fronteriza de Estados Unidos. El Departamento de Seguridad Nacional (DHS) también creará el Consejo de Supervisión de la Modernización de los Puertos Terrestres de Entrada para asesorar al DHS sobre cómo utilizar el fondo fiduciario y revisar sus gastos.

“Mientras que los puertos de entradas por vía navegable se han beneficiado durante mucho tiempo de una fuente constante de recursos federales a través de la autorización de un fondo fiduciario similar, nuestros sobrecargados puertos de entrada terrestres han tenido dificultades. La Ley del Fondo Fiduciario para la Modernización de los LPOE es necesaria para redistribuir adecuadamente los recursos que tanto necesitan las instalaciones de los LPOE y para garantizar la prosperidad económica a largo plazo de Estados Unidos a través del comercio internacional”, dijo el Congresista Henry Cuellar. “La infraestructura comercial mejorada a lo largo de la frontera sur es fundamental. El 68% de todo el comercio entre Estados Unidos y México se realiza a lo largo de la frontera entre Texas y México, incluidos 129.600 mil millones de dólares en exportaciones estadounidenses a México y 142.700 mil millones de dólares en importaciones estadounidenses procedentes de México. El Fondo Fiduciario LPOE ampliará, mejorará y construirá nuevos puertos de entrada a Estados Unidos e infraestructura de soporte para acomodar altos volúmenes de tráfico comercial, vehicular y peatonal. También ayudará a las instalaciones críticas de tránsito y comercio a completar de manera más eficiente la inspección y el procesamiento del tráfico comercial, vehicular y peatonal. Aplaudo a mis colegas de la frontera por trabajar juntos de manera bipartidista para apoyar inversiones cruciales en nuestra infraestructura portuaria terrestre.”

“Los puertos de entrada terrestres no sólo sirven como primera línea de defensa contra el contrabando ilícito de drogas y otros productos de contrabando, sino que son esenciales para facilitar el comercio internacional e impulsar la economía de nuestro país. La Ley del Fondo Fiduciario para la Modernización de los Puertos Terrestres de Entrada (LPOE) garantizará la disponibilidad de recursos dedicados exclusivamente a realizar las mejoras que tanto necesitan las infraestructuras de los puertos terrestres de entrada de nuestro país. Estoy orgulloso de haber trabajado con mis colegas de todos los partidos para presentar esta importante legislación en la Cámara de Representantes de Estados Unidos,” dijo el Congresista Tony Gonzales.

“El sur de Texas es una de las principales arterias para el comercio, los viajes y el turismo en la nación, pero sus puertos de entrada necesitan urgentemente ser ampliados y actualizados para dar cabida a la demanda de viajes y el aumento del tráfico en la región,” dijo el Congresista Vicente González. “Estoy orgulloso de colaborar con el congresista Cuellar para avanzar la legislación que proporcionaría fondos federales para dotar adecuadamente de personal, actualizar y crear puertos de entrada adicionales en los Estados Unidos. Hemos hecho inversiones históricas en la infraestructura de nuestra nación en los últimos años, y no podemos dejar que nuestros puertos de entrada terrestres se queden en el camino por más tiempo.”

“La infraestructura de nuestros puertos de entradas necesita mejoras urgentes,” dijo la Congresista Veronica Escobar. “Vivimos en un país donde nuestros aeropuertos son venerados en nuestras comunidades, ofreciendo un servicio al cliente de primera clase sin sacrificar la comodidad o la seguridad; quiero que ese mismo sentimiento se exprese cuando se trata de nuestros puertos. Estoy encantado de unirme a mis colegas copatrocinadores de esta legislación para utilizar los fondos para hacer las inversiones necesarias para modernizar la tecnología y la infraestructura en nuestros puertos.”

” La modernización de nuestros puertos de entrada terrestres es esencial para reforzar nuestras comunidades fronterizas, mejorar la seguridad e impulsar nuestra economía,” dijo el Congresista Gabe Vasquez. “En Nuevo México, las inversiones en puertos como el Puerto de Entrada de Santa Teresa significan un comercio más eficiente, una infraestructura más fuerte y mejores empleos para nuestras comunidades. Esta legislación adopta un enfoque proactivo para asegurar que nuestros puertos terrestres tengan los recursos que necesitan para mejorar la tecnología, ampliar la capacidad y mantener el ritmo de la creciente demanda. Estoy orgulloso de trabajar junto con mis colegas para avanzar en este esfuerzo bipartidista que apoya tanto el crecimiento económico como la seguridad fronteriza.”

“La Alianza de Comercio Fronterizo agradece al Representante Cuellar y a este grupo bipartidista de legisladores por trabajar para asegurar que nuestros puertos de entrada fronterizos terrestres cuenten con los recursos adecuados para seguir el ritmo de los volúmenes de comercio y viajes de hoy en día. Para la salud económica de todo el país es esencial que los puertos de entrada cuenten con personal suficiente, tecnología de inspección moderna e infraestructuras actualizadas. Apoyamos firmemente este proyecto de ley, y esperamos con interés trabajar con el Representante Cuellar y los copatrocinadores originales para ver esta importante legislación hasta su aprobación,” dijo Britton Mullen, Presidente de la Alianza para el Comercio Fronterizo.

“Los camiones mueven el 76% de la carga que cruza nuestras fronteras con Canadá y México.  Cuando aparecen cuellos de botella en la cadena de suministro, suben los precios para los consumidores, retrasan los envíos para las empresas, causan dolores de cabeza a los camioneros y ponen en peligro los puestos de trabajo estadounidenses,” dijo Henry Hanscom, Vicepresidente Senior de Asuntos Legislativos de la American Trucking Associations. “La modernización de nuestros puertos de entrada terrestres es un componente clave de la construcción de una red de transporte del siglo 21 digna de la nación más grande del mundo. La industria del transporte por carretera gracias Reps. Cuellar, González, Escobar, Gonzales y Vasquez por dirigir la atención y las inversiones a estas importantes puertas de entrada para que la carga transfronteriza pueda moverse con seguridad y eficiencia.”

“La Ley del Fondo Fiduciario para la Modernización de los Puertos de Entrada Terrestres cambia las reglas del juego para la industria del transporte por carretera en Texas y en todo el país. La Asociación de Camioneros de Texas aplaude al Congresista Cuellar, amigo de la industria desde hace mucho tiempo y campeón de la economía de Texas, por su destacado liderazgo en la defensa de esta legislación y su dedicación a la modernización de nuestros puertos. Esto revolucionará el comercio transfronterizo, mejorará la seguridad e impulsará el crecimiento económico,” dijo John D. Esparza, Presidente y Director General de la Texas Trucking Association.

Para más información sobre la Ley del Fondo Fiduciario para la Modernización de los Puertos Terrestres de Entrada (LPOE), haga clic aquí.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28)

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Henry Cuellar, Ph.D. (TX-28) announced that he will be returning to the powerful House Appropriations Committee for the 119^th Congress. The House Appropriations Committee is responsible for funding federal departments and agencies and is critical to various programs that support Americans across the nation. Furthermore, he looks forward to serving as a senior member on the three House Appropriations Subcommittees on Defense, Homeland Security, and Military Construction/Veterans Affairs.  

“Protecting our nation, supporting our troops, and securing our border have always been longstanding priorities of mine,” said Dr. Cuellar, a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee. “I am pleased to continue serving on the House Appropriations Committee. I look forward to working with Ranking Member Rosa DeLauro and the rest of the House Appropriations Committee in a bipartisan manner to support programs that benefit the American people.”

Born and raised in Laredo, TX, Congressman Cuellar is deeply committed to safeguarding our nation against evolving international security threats. He advocates for forward-thinking, 21st-century solutions to address our country’s challenges. Serving on the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security, Congressman Cuellar has secured critical funding for priorities in the district, such as funding a record number of border patrol agents, increasing the number of CBP officers, modernizing land ports of entry, upgrading security infrastructure, strengthening checkpoints, and increasing overtime pay for border patrol agents.

As a senior member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, which oversees the Departments of the Army, Navy, Air Force, and the Central Intelligence Agency, Congressman Cuellar is dedicated to ensuring that taxpayer dollars are allocated efficiently and responsibly. Rep. Cuellar works to make sure that the United States military has the funding it needs to pay its soldiers fairly and to protect our country. Moreover, he holds the Department of Defense to the highest standards of accountability, ensuring that funds are spent wisely and effectively to ensure our nation’s security.

As a senior member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Military Construction/Veterans Affairs, which oversees programs important to our nation’s veterans and helps fund construction critical to our San Antonio military bases, Congressman Cuellar believes we have an obligation to care for and honor America’s veterans and their families for their service. This includes supporting programs that benefit American veterans and increasing their support systems at home. In the past, Congressman Cuellar has worked with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and local service agencies across the district, including in small and rural communities.

As a senior member of the House Appropriations Committee in the 119^th Congress, Rep. Cuellar will continue to work hard for his community and deliver results.

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WASHINGTON, DC – El congresista Henry Cuellar, Ph.D. (TX-28) anunció que regresará al poderoso Comité de Asignaciones de la Cámara de Representantes para el 119 Congreso. El Comité de Asignaciones de la Cámara es responsable de la financiación de los departamentos y agencias federales y es fundamental para diversos programas que apoyan a los estadounidenses en todo el país. Además, espera servir como miembro principal en los tres Subcomités de Asignaciones de la Cámara de Representantes sobre Defensa, Seguridad Nacional y Construcción Militar/Asuntos de los Veteranos.   

“Proteger nuestra nación, apoyar a nuestras tropas y asegurar nuestra frontera han sido siempre prioridades mías desde hace mucho tiempo,” dijo el Dr. Cuellar, miembro sénior del Comité de Asignaciones de la Cámara de Representantes. “Me complace seguir formando parte del Comité de Asignaciones de la Cámara de Representantes. Espero con interés trabajar con la miembro de rango Rosa DeLauro y el resto del Comité de Asignaciones de la Cámara de manera bipartidista para apoyar los programas que benefician a los americanos.” 

Nacido y criado en Laredo, Texas, el congresista Cuéllar está profundamente comprometido con la protección de nuestra nación frente a las cambiantes amenazas a la seguridad internacional. Aboga por soluciones del siglo 21 con visión de futuro para hacer frente a los retos de nuestro país. Como miembro del Subcomité de Asignaciones para la Seguridad Nacional de la Cámara de Representantes, el congresista Cuéllar ha conseguido  financiación crítica para las prioridades del distrito, como la financiación de un número récord de agentes de la patrulla fronteriza, el aumento del número de funcionarios de la CBP, la modernización de los puertos de entrada terrestres, mejorando las infraestructuras de seguridad, el refuerzo de los puestos de control y el aumento de la remuneración de las horas extraordinarias de los agentes de la patrulla fronteriza. 

Como miembro sénior del Subcomité de Asignaciones de la Cámara de Representantes para Defensa, que supervisa los Departamentos del Ejército, la Armada, las Fuerzas Aéreas y la Agencia Central de Inteligencia, el Congresista Cuellar se dedica a garantizar que el dinero de los contribuyentes se asigne de forma eficiente y responsable. El congresista Cuellar trabaja para garantizar que las fuerzas armadas de Estados Unidos dispongan de la financiación necesaria para pagar a sus soldados de forma justa y proteger a nuestro país. Además, hace que el Departamento de Defensa cumpla las normas más estrictas de rendición de cuentas, garantizando que los fondos se gasten de forma inteligente y eficaz para garantizar la seguridad de nuestra nación. 

Como miembro sénior de la Subcomisión de Asignaciones de la Cámara de Representantes sobre Construcción Militar/Asuntos de Veteranos, que supervisa programas importantes para los veteranos de nuestra nación y ayuda a financiar la construcción crítica para nuestras bases militares de San Antonio, el congresista Cuellar cree que tenemos la obligación de cuidar y honrar a los veteranos de Estados Unidos y sus familias por su servicio. Esto incluye apoyar programas que beneficien a los veteranos estadounidenses y aumentar sus sistemas de apoyo en casa. En el pasado, el Congresista Cuellar ha trabajado con el Departamento de Asuntos de Veteranos de Estados Unidos (VA) y las agencias de servicios locales en todo el distrito, incluso en las comunidades pequeñas y rurales. 

Como miembro sénior del Comité de Asignaciones de la Cámara de Representantes en el 119 Congreso, el representante Cuellar seguirá trabajando duro por su comunidad y obteniendo resultados. 

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Henry Cuellar (TX-28)

Washington, DC – Today, Congressman Henry Cuellar, Ph.D. (TX-28) announced that the Social Security Administration is immediately beginning to pay retroactive benefits and will increase monthly benefit payments to people whose benefits have been affected by the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and Government Pension Offset (GPO), thanks to the Social Security Fairness Act, which Congressman Cuellar helped champion into law.

“The time is now to help our teachers, law enforcement, postal workers, and other public servants,” said Dr. Cuellar. “I am pleased to have supported public servants in my district by co-sponsoring and passing legislation that ensures they get the benefits they’ve rightfully earned, which is now being implemented across the country. Over the years, I’ve worked across the aisle to restore full social security benefits for our workers. I am thankful for the support from my colleagues in helping get money in the pockets of those most in need.”

Most people will receive their one-time retroactive payment by the end of March, which will be deposited into their bank account on record with Social Security.

Many of these people will also receive higher monthly benefits, which will first be reflected in the benefit payment they receive in April. Depending on factors such as the type of Social Security benefit received and the amount of the person’s pension, the change in payment amount will vary from person to person.

Anyone whose monthly benefit is adjusted, or who will get a retroactive payment, will receive a mailed notice from Social Security explaining the benefit change or retroactive payment. Most people will receive their retroactive payment two to three weeks before they receive their notice in the mail.

Social Security urges beneficiaries to wait until April to ask about the status of their retroactive payment, since these payments will process incrementally into March. Since the new monthly payment amount will begin with the April payment, beneficiaries should wait until after receiving their April payment, before contacting Social Security with questions about their monthly benefit amount.

Visit the agency’s Social Security Fairness Act webpage to learn more and stay up to date on its progress. Visitors can subscribe to be alerted when the webpage is updated.

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Washington, DC – Hoy, el Congresista Henry Cuellar, Ph.D. (TX-28) anunció que la Administración del Seguro Social está comenzando inmediatamente a pagar beneficios retroactivos y aumentará los pagos mensuales de beneficios a las personas cuyos beneficios han sido afectados por la Disposición de Eliminación de Ganancias Extraordinarias (WEP) y la Compensación de Pensión del Gobierno (GPO), gracias a la Ley de Equidad del Seguro Social, que el Congresista Cuellar ayudó a defender para que se convirtiera en ley.

“Ahora es el momento de ayudar a nuestros profesores, fuerzas del orden, trabajadores de correos y otros funcionarios públicos”, dijo el Dr. Cuéllar. “Me complace haber apoyado a los servidores públicos de mi distrito co-patrocinando y aprobando una legislación que garantiza que reciban las prestaciones que se han ganado por derecho, y que ahora se está aplicando en todo el país. A lo largo de los años, he trabajado para restablecer todas las prestaciones de la Seguridad Social para nuestros trabajadores. Agradezco el apoyo de mis colegas para ayudar a que el dinero llegue a los bolsillos de los más necesitados.”

La mayoría de las personas recibirán su pago único retroactivo a finales de marzo, que se ingresará en su cuenta bancaria registrada en la Seguridad Social.

Muchas de estas personas recibirán también prestaciones mensuales más elevadas, que se reflejarán primero en el pago de la prestación que reciban en abril. Dependiendo de factores como el tipo de prestación de la Seguridad Social recibida y la cantidad de la pensión de la persona, el cambio en la cuantía del pago variará de una persona a otra.

Cualquier persona cuya prestación mensual se ajuste, o que vaya a recibir un pago retroactivo, recibirá un aviso por correo de la Seguridad Social explicando el cambio de prestación o el pago retroactivo. La mayoría de las personas recibirán el pago retroactivo dos o tres semanas antes de recibir el aviso por correo.

La Seguridad Social recomienda a los beneficiarios que esperen hasta abril para preguntar sobre el estado de su pago retroactivo, ya que estos pagos se procesarán de forma incremental en marzo. Dado que la nueva cuantía de la mensualidad comenzará con el pago de abril, los beneficiarios deben esperar hasta después de recibir su pago de abril, antes de ponerse en contacto con la Seguridad Social con preguntas sobre la cantidad de su prestación mensual.

Visite la página web de la Agencia sobre la Ley de Equidad de la Seguridad Social para obtener más información y seguir sus avances. Los visitantes pueden suscribirse para recibir alertas cuando se actualiza la página web.

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Brian Babin (R-TX)

Washington, D.C. — Congressman Brian Babin (R-TX), Chairman of the House Science, Space, and Technology Committee introduced The Birthright Citizenship Act to restore the 14^th  Amendment to its original purpose and end the misuse of birthright citizenship. This legislation ensures that automatic citizenship is granted only to children born in the United States with at least one parent who meets one of the following criteria:

1. A citizen or national of the United States
2. A lawful permanent resident whose residence is in the United States; or
3. A lawful immigrant performing active service in the United States Armed Forces.

The introduction of this bill aligns with President Donald Trump’s commitment to make birthright citizenship reform a top priority. Granting automatic citizenship to children of illegal immigrants is based on a flawed interpretation of the 14^thAmendment, which was originally intended to ensure recently freed slaves gained full rights as Americans. It was never intended to confer citizenship to children of individuals who enter or remain in the United States illegally.

“America’s citizenship laws should reflect fairness and respect for the rule of law,” said Congressman Babin. “This common-sense legislation corrects decades of misuse and closes the loophole that incentivizes illegal immigration and exploits U.S. citizenship through birth tourism. Citizenship is one of our nation’s most precious privileges. By introducing this legislation, we are taking an important step to restore integrity to our immigration system and prioritize the interests of American citizens.”

According to the Center for Immigration Studies (CIS), one out of every ten births in the United States is to an illegal immigrant mother. Additionally, nearly 400,000 expectant mothers cross the border illegally each year intending to give birth in the United States. Once granted automatic citizenship, these children can initiate chain migration, opening pathways for extended family members to gain legal residency. This practice has also fueled a global birth tourism industry, which takes advantage of the current loophole in U.S. immigration laws.

The Birthright Citizenship Act has already garnered exclusive coverage in Fox News.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Brian Babin (R-TX)

Babin Votes Yes on Budget Resolution to Restore Fiscal Responsibility and Secure America’s Future

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Brian Babin (R-TX)

WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Congressman Brian Babin (TX-36) and U.S. Congresswoman Chrissy Houlahan (PA-06) issued the following statements on the reintroduction of the Resident Education Deferred Interest Act (REDI Act), which addresses the growing doctor shortage, makes medical education more affordable, and boosts health care outcomes in Southeast Texas and across America.

“The growing doctor shortage is a crisis we can’t afford to ignore. By passing the Resident Education Deferred Interest (REDI) Act, we can remove a major financial barrier for future physicians and dentists, making their education more accessible and strengthening our health care workforce,” said Rep. Babin. “This bill will not only save residents thousands of dollars in accrued interest but also encourage specialization and make it easier for providers to serve in rural communities. With strong bipartisan support and backing from leading medical and dental organizations, I urge my colleagues to support the REDI Act and invest in the future of American health care.”

“College and university students in undergraduate and graduate programs are not required to start paying their loans until they complete them. That same policy should extend to dental and medical students through their internship and residency requirements,” said Rep. Houlahan. “I’m proud to support this bipartisan legislation to help those pursuing a medical or dental degree by eliminating an unfair burden. We must continue to make these career paths more accessible, and this is a great first step in encouraging more people to enter this sector of the workforce.

Supporting organizations:

Academy of General Dentistry

American Academy of Family Physicians

American Academy of Neurology

American Academy of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology

American Academy of Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology

American Academy of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery

American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry

American Academy of Periodontology

American Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research

American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology & Strabismus

American Association of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry

American Association of Endodontists 

American Association of Neurological Surgeons

American Academy of Ophthalmology 

American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons

American Association of Orthodontists 

American Association of Orthopedic Surgeons

American College of Emergency Physicians

American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists 

American College of Physicians

American College of Rheumatology

American College of Surgeons

American Dental Association

American Dental Education Association

American Gastroenterological Association

American Medical Association

American Osteopathic Association

American Psychiatric Association

American Society for Radiation Oncology

American Society of Anesthesiologists

American Society of Dentist Anesthesiologists

American Student Dental Association

American Urological Association, Inc.

College of American Pathologists

Congress of Neurological Surgeons

Hispanic Dental Association

Renal Physicians Association

Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions

Society for Vascular Surgery

Society of Interventional Radiology

The Society of Thoracic Surgeons

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