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Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Paul Tonko (Capital Region New York)

WASHINGTON, DC — Today, Congressman Paul D. Tonko (D-NY) announced that he has secured a total of $14,093,000 in federal funding for a slate of 15 community development and improvement projects across New York’s 20^th Congressional District. Tonko secured this critical funding as part of the Fiscal Year 2026 government appropriations packages, which were signed into law.

“I’m proud to have secured federal funding for this incredible slate of community projects in our Capital Region, each of which brings great promise for our communities,” Congressman Tonko said. “With key federal investments, these projects will help drive economic growth across our district and deliver support to those in our communities who need it most. For two years, my team and I have pushed hard to ensure these worthy projects were included in the federal spending package. Now, after a long and arduous process, I’m delighted to announce that that determined effort has been successful. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated local leaders who proposed and developed these initiatives, and I am eager to see how these federal dollars will help unleash our Capital Region’s untapped potential.”

Tonko championed funding for 15 local projects that will bring direct benefits to Capital Region residents. In alphabetical order, these include:

·         $250,000 for ADA-accessible sidewalks in Ballston Spa

·         $1,015,000 for a Community Corner creation in Mechanicville

·         $500,000 for Community Park improvements in Scotia

·         $1,000,000 for the Crossroads Center for Children in Schenectady for renovations and expansion

·         $1,000,000 for Glenville Hill Fire District No. 8 for essential building repairs and updates

·         $850,000 for Hudson Valley Community College in Troy for an Autonomous and Electric Vehicle Lab

·         $850,000 for Lincoln Park Southwest Gateway improvements in Albany

·         $1,031,000 for Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy for equipment and technology to support quantum innovation

·         $500,000 for the Town of Milton’s Town Hall expansion

·         $1,092,000 for the Town of Stillwater’s water main replacements

·         $2,000,000 for the Troy Public Library’s indoor air quality system improvements

·         $1,521,000 for the University at Albany’s CNSE 200mm Wafer Cleanroom equipment upgrade

·         $1,092,000 for the Village of Altamont’s wastewater treatment plant upgrades

·         $1,092,000 for the Village of Menands for water system improvements

·         $300,000 for Voorheesville sewage infrastructure improvements

More detailed descriptions of each project can be found HERE on Congressman Tonko’s website.

 

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Aumua Amata (Western Samoa)

Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Uifa’atali Amata is honoring the life of the Reverend Jesse Jackson:

“The Reverend Jackson was an influential civil rights icon, who marched with and worked for the Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. He was a trailblazing presidential candidate in 1984 and again in 1988, when he won 11 states in the Democratic primaries. An ordained Baptist minister, his historic campaigns helped set the stage for politicians to follow, and he was an enduring part of our nation’s story and public policy discussions for the past generation. 

“I was able to talk with him and shake his hand a few years ago at a funeral for a colleague in Congress. He will be missed.

“His many legacies include the voter registrations of millions of Americans, and efforts against poverty. He was a passionate advocate for his progressive beliefs, always helping clarify the national political debates of his time. In 2000, President Bill Clinton awarded the Rev. Jackson the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

“He is the father of my current House colleague, Rep. Jonathan Luther Jackson, and we serve together on the Foreign Affairs Committee.

“My condolences to the entire Jackson family and the millions of Americans who have held him in high esteem for decades. May God be with and bless them in this time, and may God bless the United States.”

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA)

Griffith Statement on Passing of Reverend Jesse Jackson

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Jesús Chuy García (IL-04)

CHICAGO — Congressman Jesús “Chuy” García (IL-04) issued the following statement on the passing of Reverend Jesse Jackson:

“Today, our country has lost a beacon of civil rights and a champion for equality. As a longtime friend to Reverend Jesse Jackson and his family the news of his passing is profoundly sad to me.

“Throughout his life, Reverend Jackson fearlessly advocated for the rights and dignity of working class communities, serving as a beacon of hope for millions.

“His presidential campaigns in 1984 and 1988 were transformational, not only for our brothers and sisters in the Black community, but for all Americans who believe in a more inclusive society. I was proud to be a Jackson Delegate at both Democratic conventions, representing Illinois. His speech in 1988 deeply inspired me to never surrender in our pursuit of justice.

“Reverend Jackson taught us many lessons, among them, that political participation is vital to improving community conditions.

“He inspired countless individuals, particularly in communities of color, to exercise their right to vote and dedicated his life to ensure every voice is heard and every vote is counted.

“I have no doubt that his relentless pursuit of a multiracial alliance through the Rainbow Coalition played a crucial role in the election of our friend Harold Washington in 1983 as the first Black mayor of Chicago.

“Reverend Jackson’s unwavering commitment to equality and justice has left an indelible mark not only on Chicago’s history but also our nation’s history. My thoughts are with his wife Jackie, and his children Ashley, Jesse Jr., and my dear colleague Jonathan. Rest in power, my friend.”

 

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Judy Chu (CA2-27)

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last week, Rep. Judy Chu (CA-28) joined Rep. Brian Mast (FL-21), Rep. Dina Titus (NV-01), Rep. Vern Buchanan (FL-16), and Senator Adam Schiff (CA) in introducing bipartisan legislation to strengthen emergency preparedness for companion animals. 

During weather-related disasters, families are frequently forced to evacuate with minimal time. For pet owners, evacuation can mean an impossible choice: leave their pets behind or risk their own safety by staying home. Too often, families choose the latter—endangering themselves and complicating rescue efforts for first responders. The Los Angeles Times documented many of these stories in the wake of the Eaton and Palisades fires. 

The Providing Essential Temporary Shelter for Emergencies (PETSAFE) Act expands the allowable use of existing emergency management funds so states and local governments can better plan for animal evacuation, sheltering, veterinary care, training, and specialized rescue equipment during disasters.

Under current law, many animal preparedness efforts are limited by high local cost-share requirements. The PETSAFE Act lowers that barrier by increasing the federal cost share for eligible companion animal preparedness activities from 50 percent to 90 percent, making it more affordable for communities to implement protective plans for people and pets.

“When the Eaton Fire tore through my district, so many families were forced into an impossible choice. As a result, many families delayed evacuating because they couldn’t bear to leave their pets behind. Thankfully, local shelters and community members across California stepped up to care for animals of all kinds that had to be relocated out of the fire’s path,” said Rep. Judy Chu. “Disasters like these make it clear that emergency planning must also account for the safety and wellbeing of pets. That’s why I’m teaming up with Representative Brian Mast and Senator Adam Schiff to introduce the PETSAFE Act. Our bill would ensure that state and local governments can utilize FEMA grant money to purchase the resources they need to protect animals during disasters,” she added.

“When we plan better for animals, we save human lives too,” said Rep. Brian Mast. “This bill helps communities prepare smarter, respond faster, and keep families together when disaster strikes.”

“Our pets are part of our families, and when disaster strikes, it’s important that communities have the resources to ensure they aren’t left behind. I’m proud to partner with Representative Brian Mast to reintroduce this legislation which will help us protect our animals during major disasters and emergencies,” said Senator Adam Schiff. 

“Protecting pets during disasters is not just compassionate, it is responsible. As an original supporter of the bipartisan PETSAFE Act, I am advancing a practical, lifesaving approach that helps families evacuate safely without leaving their furry friends behind,” said Rep. Dina Titus. 

“For millions of families, pets are part of the family and in disaster-prone states like Florida, families often won’t evacuate if they can’t bring them, putting lives at risk,” said Rep. Vern Buchanan. “The PETSAFE Act improves preparedness and removes unnecessary cost barriers, so states and local governments have the flexibility they need to protect animals, families and first responders during hurricanes and other emergencies. As co-chair of the Congressional Animal Protection Caucus, I am proud to join Congressman Brian Mast in leading this commonsense, bipartisan effort.”

“The Eaton Fire showed us that disasters don’t just displace people—they endanger the animals who depend on us. Allowing FEMA funds to support local efforts to protect pets during emergencies helps keep families together and saves lives,” said Chris Ramon, President & CEO of Pasadena Humane.

“Americans consider their pets to be a part of the family, and many won’t evacuate during an emergency without them. Empowering communities to include animals in emergency response plans is critical to preventing further devastation and helps save the lives of animals, families, and first responders,” said Daniel Leonardini, director of federal legislation for the ASPCA.

During the Eaton Fire, Pasadena Humane alone took in more than 450 pets. The ASPCA responded to 112 service calls, helping 538 animals — including chickens, cats, goats, pigs, parakeets, and even a gecko and a tortoise, many of which were safely reunited with their families.

You can read the full bill here. 

Photo Caption: After the devastating Eaton Fire, Rep. Chu visited the more than 450 pets that Pasadena Humane took in as families rushed to evacuate their homes. 

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Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Emanuel Cleaver II (5th District Missouri)

(Kansas City, MO) – Today, U.S. Representative Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO) released the following statement on the passing of Reverend Jesse Jackson.

“I am deeply saddened by the passing of my dear friend, Reverend Jesse Jackson.

“For decades, Reverend Jackson served as the head of Operation Breadbasket – a program of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference and later founded his own organization in Chicago, Operation Push, which later became The Rainbow Coalition. Rev. Jesse Jackson stood at the forefront of the struggle for justice, equality, and human dignity. From the days of the Civil Rights Movement to his relentless advocacy for voting rights, economic opportunity, and peace, he never stopped pushing America to live up to its highest ideals. His faith was not quiet, it was active, courageous, and unwavering.

“In Kansas City, and across this nation, we felt the impact of his organizing, his preaching, and his belief that ordinary people could do extraordinary things when they stood together.

“On a personal level, I lost a friend, a mentor, and a brother in the movement. Our conversations about faith, justice, and the long arc of history strengthened me more than he knew. 

“His life was a testament to the power of hope and persistence. And while we mourn his passing, we honor him best by continuing the work. 

“May he rest in power.” 

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Emanuel Cleaver, II is the U.S. Representative for Missouri’s Fifth Congressional District, which includes Kansas City, Independence, Lee’s Summit, Raytown, Grandview, Sugar Creek, Greenwood, Blue Springs, North Kansas City, Gladstone, and Claycomo. He is a member of the exclusive House Financial Services Committee and Ranking Member of the House Subcommittee on Housing and Insurance.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Chris Pappas (D-NH)

Congressman Chris Pappas (NH-01) and U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan (NH) introduced bipartisan legislation to improve access to affordable child care for parents working nontraditional hours. The After Hours Child Care Act would help child care providers expand operating hours and build partnerships with businesses, so that parents can remain in the workforce and provide for their families while working outside of the traditional work hours of 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. 

“There are many successful child care models that could work for New Hampshire families, and we must expand affordable child care options to meet the needs of parents working all types of jobs and hours,” said Congressman Pappas. “This bipartisan, bicameral legislation would expand existing programs and encourage the establishment of new ones, supporting working parents and strengthening our workforce and economy.” 

“At a time when many families are struggling with high costs, we need to do more to help parents find and afford child care so that they can work and support their families, including when their jobs require early mornings, late nights, or weekend shifts,” said Senator Hassan. “This commonsense, bipartisan bill will help families across New Hampshire and the country access affordable child care that works with their schedules.”  

In communities across America, major industries such as health care, advanced manufacturing, and logistics rely on workers for early morning or late-night shifts, as well as weekend availability. The After Hours Child Care Act would help fill these high-demand roles by removing barriers created by a lack of child care accessibility, especially in rural communities.

If enacted, the After Hours Child Care Act would:

• Expand capacity for an existing child care program to serve families working nontraditional hours
• Support efforts to establish an on-site child care program at a workplace
• Ensure that federal funds supplement current efforts by requiring a 25 percent match
• Require a report every two years on the bill’s effectiveness in improving child care availability

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Bob Latta (R-Bowling Green Ohio)

Latta Has Pay Withheld During Partial Government Shutdown

Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Gus Bilirakis (FL-12)

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representatives Gus Bilirakis (FL-12), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01), and Anna Paulina Luna (FL-13) have introduced the Permanent Tax Relief for Seniors Act, legislation that would make permanent the historic $6,000 Social Security tax deduction for seniors established under the Working Families Tax Cuts Act.  The deduction – which provides up to $6,000 in tax relief for individuals over the age of 65 and $12,000 for married couples filing jointly – was signed into law in 2025, but is currently set to expire in 2028. This legislation eliminates the sunset provision and ensures that seniors can rely on this tax relief for years to come.

“As I travel throughout my district and speak with seniors, I hear firsthand how much they appreciate the new $6,000 tax deduction that was recently signed into law. It represents meaningful progress and real relief,” said Congressman Bilirakis. “However, many retirees living on fixed incomes continue to struggle to make ends meet, and we must do more. Social Security is not a government handout – it is a benefit earned through decades of hard work and payroll contributions. Seniors planned their retirements around these benefits, and they deserve to receive every dollar they were promised. Fully eliminating the federal tax on Social Security would strengthen financial stability for retirees, simplify the filing process, and provide lasting peace of mind to millions of older Americans. Our seniors have spent a lifetime contributing to our communities and strengthening our nation. They have earned these benefits, and they should be able to keep them in full. While I’m still pursuing legislation to achieve this goal, the Permanent Tax Relief for Seniors Act will make sure they keep this new $6,000 deduction.”

“After a lifetime of hard work, Iowa seniors deserve real peace of mind – not more tax season headaches,” said Congresswoman Miller-Meeks. “This deduction was a game-changer for older Americans living on fixed incomes. Our bill ensures those savings don’t expire, because seniors have earned the right to keep more of what they worked their whole lives for.”

The Permanent Tax Relief for Seniors Act builds on the success of the original tax relief by providing certainty and long-term stability for retirees who depend on Social Security benefits as a primary source of income.

Background:

• The Permanent Tax Relief for Seniors Act amends the Internal Revenue Code to remove the expiration date on the seniors deduction.
• The $6,000 individual and $12,000 joint deduction, when combined with the standard deduction and existing seniors tax credit, effectively eliminates federal taxes on Social Security benefits for the vast majority of older Americans.
• More than 88% of Social Security recipients will no longer pay federal income taxes on their benefits due to this provision.
• The measure provides meaningful financial breathing room, particularly for the 38% of seniors who remain in the workforce or are seeking employment because they cannot yet afford full retirement.

By permanently securing this tax relief, the legislation honors the promise made to America’s seniors – ensuring they can retire with dignity, stability, and the full benefit of what they have earned.

Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09)

MEMPHIS — Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-9) made the following statement after learning of the passing of civil rights leader and presidential candidate Jesse Jackson:

“Jesse Jackson was a man in the arena for most of his life and was one of the prominent civil rights and human rights leaders in our nation’s history. He was a splendid orator and a courageous leader. I extend my profound condolences to his family, particularly his sons Jesse Jr. and Jonathan, friends with whom I have served in the House, and his many friends, supporters and admirers. Jesse Jackson made a difference and will be missed.”

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