WASHINGTON – After whistleblowers asserted the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) Office of Inspector General (OIG) leadership made a series of wasteful and ill-advised financial decisions, U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa) is demanding answers from the watchdog agency.
The allegations range from using federal funds for personal vacations under the guise of work trips, sweeping locality pay abuse, and even that a manager routinely used a “mouse-jiggler” to fake the appearance of work.
“As the following allegations illustrate, under then-Deputy Inspector General Tyler Smith’s guidance, the distinction between ‘growth’ and reckless spending appears increasingly blurred. Moreover, a series of wasteful and ill-advised financial decisions allegedly have placed your agency in a dire financial position, leading to decisions that reportedly have hindered its core investigative function,” wrote Ernst.
Click here to view the letter.
Background:
Ernst has doggedly investigated allegations of wrongdoing at the FDIC, the agency the FDIC OIG is tasked with conducting oversight of, and was one of the first senators to call for FDIC Chair Martin Gruenberg’s resignation following reports of sexual harassment and discrimination at the agency.
In November 2023, she followed up by conducting critical oversight of this behavior at the FDIC and demanding any evidence of criminal wrongdoing by agency employees be turned over to the Department of Justice and local law enforcement for potential prosecution.
After a third-party investigation into the FDIC’s workplace culture, Ernst called for real consequences and the Department of Justice to investigate the agency from top to bottom. Even after this report, the Biden administration refused to immediately remove FDIC Chair Gruenberg.
In April 2024, Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP (Cleary Gottlieb), the firm hired to investigate FDIC’s workplace issues, released its report documenting over 500 allegations of harassment and other egregious behavior and revealed one in ten FDIC employees reported some form of misconduct.
However, Cleary Gottlieb was precluded from directly investigating claims of misconduct to hold perpetrators accountable, instead focusing on policies and shortfalls giving rise to the culture. In November 2024, Ernst demanded that the FDIC investigate the more than 500 allegations of misconduct and harassment.
Nominees will be vital in making the small business economy great again.
WASHINGTON – Today, under Chair Joni Ernst’s (R-Iowa) leadership, the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship advanced the nominations of William Briggs to serve as Deputy Administrator of the Small Business Administration (SBA) and Casey Mulligan to serve as Chief Counsel for Advocacy.
During their nomination hearing, Chair Ernst touted the pair of nominees and the vital role they will play in executing Administrator Kelly Loeffler’s bold new vision for the SBA.
“Administrator Loeffler has been working hard to return the agency to its core mission of serving Main Street,” said Chair Ernst. “From getting bureaucrats back to work to tracking down COVID fraudsters and strengthening key programs, the work is just beginning. Mr. Briggs and Dr. Mulligan will continue to restore strong leadership at the SBA and make the small business economy great again!”
Ernst has led the charge on many of the reforms the Trump SBA is carrying out including:
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman Emanuel Cleaver II (5th District Missouri)
(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Representatives Emanuel Cleaver, II (D-MO), David Scott (D-GA), and Nikema Williams (D-GA), members of the House Financial Services Committee, led 50 House Democrats in sending aletterto Travis Hill, the Acting Chairman of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC), opposing the Trump Administration’s effort to undermine the agency’s critical role of ensuring financial stability and protecting consumers from financial harm.
The letter follows ongoing reports that the Trump Administration and Elon Musk are planning to move forward with a proposed merger of the FDIC with other key banking regulators, including the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB), the Office of the Comptroller of the Currency (OCC), and the Federal Reserve’s supervisory division. In recent weeks, the Administration fired hundreds of bank examiners, failed to put forward Acting Director Hill’s nomination to officially lead the agency before the U.S. Senate, and reportedly asked the Treasury Department to draft recommendations streamlining the role of other banking regulators to exert more control over them.
“Since the Great Depression, the FDIC has played a vital role in supporting the wellbeing of American families and the economy, promoting stability and confidence in the banking system and guaranteeing that hard-earned deposits are protected,” said Congressman Cleaver. “Having been in Congress during the 2008 financial crisis, I’ve seen the horrible consequences that follow reckless deregulation and inadequate oversight of America’s financial system. While I pray to never see such an economic collapse again, the Trump Administration’s efforts to put special interests over the interests of everyday Americans by gutting the FDIC and those responsible for ensuring our financial system is sound leave me properly petrified. It’s imperative that the Acting FDIC Chair protect the mission and integrity of the independent agency before another tragedy occurs.”
“The notion that the President would consider merging or consolidating the FDIC is an outrageous, reckless, and profoundly irresponsible attack on the financial security of millions of Americans,” said Congressman David Scott. “The FDIC has been the backbone of our banking system for nearly a century, ensuring that depositors’ money is safe and protected against bank failures. To dismantle the institution by firing the very people tasked with overseeing bank soundness and safety, is to invite chaos, economic instability, and financial ruin for working families and small businesses across Georgia and the nation. Acting Chair Travis Hill must immediately rebuff any attempt to blunt or politicize the mission of the FDIC, oppose the mass layoff of key examiners and reaffirm his commitment to the agency’s independence.”
“Once again, President Trump is showing his laughable ignorance of our financial system,” said Congresswoman Williams. “The FDIC’s independence is essential to protecting confidence and stability in our banking system. Chairman Hill’s willingness to entertain consolidating the FDIC with other banking regulators, while it is already understaffed, is a direct threat to that stability. Dismantling this agency is another thinly veiled attempt to attack working families, many who look like my constituents in Atlanta, and a deliberate attempt to widen the racial wealth gap.”
“The National Treasury Employees Union (NTEU), representing the employees at FDIC, OCC and CFPB, is grateful for Representatives Scott, Cleaver, Williams and others for their letter to Acting Chair Hill. The current Administration is playing reckless games with the bank deposits of hard-working Americans. Firing hundreds of experienced bank examiners puts every American’s bank accounts at risk.” Doreen Greenwald, National President, National Treasury Employees Union.
“It is gravely misguided and dangerous to undermine the independence of the FDIC which has tirelessly and capably protected depositors and the economy for almost a century. People rely on the FDIC seal of approval and communities across the country rely on the FDIC to preserve the safety and soundness of local banks.” Patrick Woodall, Managing Director of Policy, Americans for Financial Reform.
The letter was endorsed by Americans for Financial Reform (AFR), the National Treasury Employees Union (NTEU) and Public Citizen.
The letter was cosigned by Representatives Becca Balint (D-VT), Joyce Beatty (D-OH), Brendan Boyle (D-PA), Shontel Brown (D-OH), André Carson (D-IN), Troy Carter (D-LA), Greg Casar (D-TX), Sean Casten (D-IL), Gilbert Cisneros (D-CA), Herbert Conaway (D-NJ), Danny Davis (D-IL), Dwight Evans (D-PA), Cleo Fields (D-LA), Bill Foster (D-IL), Sylvia Garcia (D-TX), Dan Goldman (D-NY), Al Green (D-TX), Glenn Ivey (D-MD), Jonathan Jackson (D-IL), Pramila Jayapal (D-WA), Hank Johnson (D-GA), Julie Johnson (D-TX), Robin Kelly (D-IL), Ro Khanna (D-CA), George Latimer (D-NY), Stephen Lynch (D-MA), Lucy McBath (D-GA), Jim McGovern (D-MA), Gregory Meeks (D-NY), Jerrold Nadler (D-NY), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY), Brittany Pettersen (D-CO), Ayanna Pressley (D-MA), Mike Quigley (D-IL), Delia Ramirez (D-IL), Deborah Ross (D-NC), Jan Schakowsky (D-IL), Terri Sewell (D-AL), Bennie Thompson (D-MS), Mike Thompson (D-CA), Rashida Tlaib (D-MI), Jill Tokuda (D-HI), Juan Vargas (D-CA), Nydia Velázquez (D-NY), and Frederica Wilson (D-FL).
The official letter from lawmakers is availablehere.
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 Senator for Arkansas Tom Cotton
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Caroline Tabler or Patrick McCann (202) 224-2353 April 2, 2025
Cotton, Colleagues: Allow Fish Farmers to Protect Ponds from Predatory Birds
Washington, D.C. — Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) today reintroduced the Cormorant Relief Act, legislation that would fully restore the ability of catfish farmers and other aquaculture producers to cull predatory double-crested cormorant populations. The legislation would restore U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service regulations to allow producers to fight the cormorants, which threaten the livelihoods of aquaculture operations in Arkansas, Mississippi, Alabama, and other states.
Senators Katie Britt (R-Alabama), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Mississippi), Tommy Tuberville (R-Alabama), and Roger Wicker (R-Mississippi) are cosponsoring the legislation. Congressman Mike Ezell (Mississippi-04) is leading companion legislation in the House.
“Double-crested cormorants pose a significant threat to Arkansas’s fish farmers, but unnecessary regulation currently prevents them from taking additional steps to protect their ponds. Our bill would once again give fish farmers the ability to adequately defend their fish populations from the birds that are eating into their bottom line,” said Senator Cotton.
“Every year, Alabama’s catfish farmers battle predatory double-crested cormorants in addition to the high input costs and overreaching regulations experienced by our entire agriculture industry. This commonsense bill allows our aquaculture producers the ability to better manage these cormorants that cause millions of dollars of losses year after year. Catfish is a vital part of our state’s economy, and I will always support our hardworking farmers and processors,” said Senator Britt.
“Mississippi catfish producers battle every day just to break even, something that is made harder because of the vast flocks of cormorants feasting at their ponds. The immediate losses due to bird predation, combined with subsequent losses due to disease, cost the aquaculture industry millions of dollars annually. It is essential that we allow producers to do more to protect their crops from bird predation, which is what this legislation will accomplish,” said Senator Hyde-Smith.
“Alabama is the number two state in American catfish production, raising one-third of the world’s catfish,” said Senator Tuberville. “As a former catfish restaurant owner, I know firsthand how critical catfish are to our economy. America’s catfish farmers should be able to protect their livelihoods against these invasive birds without fear of repercussions from the federal government. It is important that we put our American catfish farmers first!”
“Cormorant overpopulation is hurting fish populations and threatening industries that depend on healthy fisheries,” Congressman Ezell said. “This bipartisan bill gives Mississippians the ability to manage these predatory birds and keep our aquaculture industry protected. Protecting our fisheries is key to supporting local economies and farmers, and I’m proud to work with those leading this effort.”
Text of the legislation may be found here.
This legislation is supported by the National Aquaculture Association and the Catfish Farmers of America.
Background:
The double-crested cormorant is a large water bird that feeds primarily on fish, consuming approximately a pound of fish per day. The cormorant population in North America has been increasing for decades as they have no natural predators and a growing prey base. As a result, these birds cause millions of dollars in losses across the aquaculture industry each year.
From 1998 to 2016, an Aquaculture Depredation Order existed allowing aquaculture producers to take double-crested cormorants committing or about to commit depredation of aquaculture stocks. However, a lawsuit brought against the Fish and Wildlife Service challenged the Aquaculture Depredation Order renewal and in 2016 the order was vacated. Currently, aquaculture facilities must pursue individual depredation permits, which impose constraints on farmers and prevent them from adequately protecting their fish against this avian predator.
Source: United States Senator for Arkansas Tom Cotton
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Caroline Tabler or Patrick McCann (202) 224-2353 April 2, 2025
Cotton, Colleagues Introduce Stephen Hacala Poppy Seed Safety Act
Washington, D.C. — Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas), along with Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-Connecticut) and John Boozman (R-Arkansas), today introduced the Stephen Hacala Poppy Seed Safety Act. The legislation would prohibit the sale of poppy seeds that contain a harmful level of opiates and require the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to issue regulations that establish a maximum level of contamination.
Congressman Steve Womack (Arkansas-03) is leading companion legislation in the House. Representatives Rick Crawford (Arkansas-01), Rosa DeLauro (Connecticut-03), French Hill (Arkansas-02), and Bruce Westerman (Arkansas-04) are cosponsoring the legislation in the House.
“Stephen Hacala, Jr. died from an opioid overdose because of a dangerous gap in our nation’s drug laws. Despite government warnings, unwashed poppy seeds, which can contain lethal doses of morphine, are still entering our food supply. It’s time for the FDA to act so that no other families experience the pain the Hacala family has endured,” said Senator Cotton.
“This measure would close loopholes that have allowed dangerous and deadly opiates to be sold online. Unwashed poppy seeds available for sale online can contain deadly levels of morphine and have killed tens of Americans. Our bill would ensure stricter FDA regulations and prohibit unwashed poppy seeds from being sold to unwitting consumers,” said Senator Blumenthal.
“The sale of unwashed poppy seeds is a threat to the safety of Arkansans and all Americans. This legislation honors Stephen Hacala Jr.’s memory by protecting other consumers from falling victim to dangerous, toxin-laced poppy seeds sold online and families from experiencing the loss of a loved one from similar circumstances,” said Senator Boozman.
“I am proud to join my Arkansas colleagues in supporting this legislation and I hope it makes the changes necessary to protect individuals in the future from harm,” said Congressman Crawford.
“Because of negligent practices among poppy seed distributors, the Hacala family now grieves the loss of a loved one. Congress must act to ensure that the Food and Drug Administration issues the appropriate regulations to correctly warn the public on the level of opiates that could be consumed through contaminated poppy seeds. I’m proud to support this legislation alongside my fellow Arkansans and House Republicans to prevent other families from enduring the same loss the Hacala family is unfortunately all too familiar with,” said Congressman Westerman.
“The Hacala family of Rogers tragically lost their son, Stephen, because lethal substances find their way into our food supply through contaminated poppy seeds. In Stephen’s memory, my colleagues and I have created a solution to close an FDA loophole and ensure that only safe products are available for consumption. This bill can save lives and prevent another family from experiencing an unimaginable loss like the Hacalas,” said Congressman Womack.
Text of the legislation may be found here.
Background:
While most poppy seeds are harmless, some manufacturers sell seeds laced with morphine at a cost far higher than normal seeds. These seeds can contain more than 20 times the therapeutic dosage of morphine.
On April 3, 2016, Stephen Hacala of Fayetteville, Arkansas, died from morphine intoxication caused by morphine-laced poppy seeds purchased from Amazon. As many as 20 other Americans reportedly have died from overdoses caused by morphine-laced poppy seeds sold directly to consumers.
A research team led by Dr. Madeleine Swortwood, assistant professor of forensic science at Sam Houston State University, studied the morphine content in different bags of poppy seeds. The researchers found that some bags of poppy seeds contained morphine levels many times higher than a fatal dose.
In February 2023, the Department of Defense warned service members to avoid poppy seed products due to contamination and risk of failing drug tests.
Legislation will empower state and local law enforcement to protect Americans from drone threats
WASHINGTON – Sen. Mike Lee (R-UT) today introduced the Stopping Harmful Incidents to Enforce Lawful Drone Use (SHIELD-U) Act and the Drone Integration and Zoning Act to equip state and local law enforcement with the authority needed to protect their citizens and communities from drone threats.
“State and local law enforcement agencies cannot ensure the safety of their communities when the federal government restricts their ability to respond to active drone threats,” said Sen. Lee. “Rather than waiting on the federal government, which often lacks the resources and capital to respond to threats effectively, this bill grants local authorities the latitude to quickly identify and mitigate threats.”
BACKGROUND
These bills equip state and local law enforcement with the authority needed to protect their citizens, communities, and airports from drone threats.
The current regulatory environment stifles state and local governments’ ability to mitigate drone threats. The FAA currently regulates “navigable airspace” which is defined as “above the minimum altitudes of flight” which is typically 500 ft. However, the FAA has taken some liberties in recent years and stated that minimum altitudes of flight for drones is above a blade of grass.
Congress has exclusively granted limited authority to detect and takedown a drone only to the Department of Defense, Department of Homeland Security, Department of Justice, and Department of Energy. According to a Blue Ribbon Task Force Report commissioned by the Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI) and Airports Council International-North America (ACI-NA) one challenge in meeting current drone threats is the federal government’s lack of human resources or capital to invest in and operate counter drone technology at airports. When considered beyond an airport environment, the challenge becomes even greater, because federal law does not permit state or local law enforcement to mitigate a drone threat.
The SHIELD-U and Drone Integration and Zoning Acts provide essential tools for state and local law enforcement to address the growing drone threats that federal regulations have failed to adequately manage. By empowering local authorities, these bills ensure that communities and airports have the resources needed to safeguard their citizens and infrastructure from potential harm. With the increasing prevalence of drone-related incidents, it is vital to enable local enforcement to act swiftly and effectively in protecting public safety.
You can read the text of the SHIELD-U Act HERE.
You can read the text of the Drone Integration and Zoning Act HERE.
Source: United States Senator MarkWayne Mullin (R-Oklahoma)
Mullin, Padilla, Tillis Introduce the Ensuring Access to Specialty Care Everywhere Act
Washington, D.C. – Today,U.S. Senators Markwayne Mullin (R-OK), Alex Padilla (D-CA), and Thom Tillis (R-NC) introduced the Ensuring Access to Specialty Care Everywhere (EASE) Act, legislation that will increase access to specialty care for rural and underserved Medicare, Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) patients.
The U.S. House companion of this bipartisan bill was introduced by Reps. Jodey Arrington (R-TX) and Andrea Salinas (D-OR).
“Rural communities are disproportionately impacted by clinician shortages, an aging population, and transportation hurdles, which decrease individuals’ access to specialty care,” said Senator Mullin. “Harnessing the power of telehealth will address these needs and increase access to quality health care, of which many patients are in desperate need. I am glad to join my colleagues in reintroducing this bill to ensure access to quality health care regardless of a patients’ zip code.”
“Everyone deserves access to quality, efficient health care. However, people in rural communities often face unacceptable barriers to care, including unsustainably high wait times and impossibly long drives to connect with specialists,” said Senator Padilla. “Our bipartisan EASE Act would expand telehealth capabilities so rural communities can access specialty care, allowing for earlier intervention and reducing unnecessary emergency visits.”
“Telehealth has become an invaluable tool in increasing access to quality care for all Americans,” said Senator Tillis. “However, too many individuals in rural and underserved communities still face serious challenges in accessing specialty care, which results in worse outcomes and higher costs. This legislation leverages technology to create a virtual specialty network to ensure everyone – regardless of location – receives the necessary care when and where they need it.”
“The National Rural Health Association applauds Senators Mullin and Padilla and Representatives Arrington, Salinas, and LaHood and for the introduction of the EASE Act. A shortage of health care providers in rural areas means that patients can often have long wait times and challenges accessing needed specialty care. The EASE Act is an innovative piece of legislation that would leverage virtual technologies to reduce wait times, overcome geographic barriers, and improve care for rural Americans,” Alan Morgan, National Rural Health Association.
“We need to rethink how we ensure Rural America’s access to specialty care. The EASE Act is an innovative and cost-effective way to provide reliable and integrated access to specialists. OCHIN applauds Senators Mullin and Padilla for championing bi-partisan solutions that will redesign how high-quality care is delivered,” Jennifer Stoll, Chief External Affairs Officer at OCHIN.
The EASE Act is supported by the following groups: National Rural Health Association, America’s Health Centers (AHC), National Association of Community Health Centers, City of Hope Cancer Centers, American Podiatric Medical Association, Society of Interventional Radiology, Lupus and Allied Diseases Association, ATA Action, National Association of Rural Health Clinics, American Alliance of Orthopedic Executives, and LIBRE.
Read more about the EASE Act in the Washington Examiner.
Source: United States Senator Peter Welch (D-Vermont)
Welch slams Trump’s trade war on the Senate Floor: “These tariffs will be a dagger in the heart of the Vermont economy.”
WASHINGTON, D.C. – Tonight, U.S. Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.), a member of the Senate Finance and Senate Agriculture Committees, voted to end President Trump’s reckless tariffs on Canadian imports—a tax on Vermont businesses and manufactures, farmers, and families. The vote comes on the same day President Trump imposed new global tariffs, throwing the economy into chaos.
“These tariffs on Canada are terrible for Vermont’s economy, arbitrary, and frankly—really stupid. President Trump’s trade war has raised prices for working families across the country and eroded trust between our neighbor and best ally in trade. I voted to end these reckless tariffs and reassert Congress’s power over trade policy,” said Senator Peter Welch after the vote.
Before voting, Senator Welch took to the Senate Floor to denounce President Trump’s announcement of new, blanket tariffs, which will devastate Vermont and the global economy. The Senator’s remarks followed a press conference earlier today where Senator Welch described President Trump’s trade policy as “Totally bad. Totally wrong. Doomed.”
“I want to talk about how these tariffs will be a dagger in the heart of the Vermont economy. The question for this institution is will we, as the United States Senate, accept the responsibility that each and every one of us, as Senators, has to stand up for the independent authority and responsibility of this institution?” asked Senator Welch from the Senate Floor.
“…What I’m seeing is a lawless rampage on the part of the Executive, being accommodated by an appeasing Congress, not standing up for its authority in many different areas…A couple decades ago this Congress gave, and delegated, some authority to the President in a national emergency to impose tariffs. That authority was given with the expectation, and rightly so in a mutually respectful civil society, that a President would use it for the intended purpose and with restraint. Whether it was Republican or Democrat…” Welch continued. “What President Trump has done is run roughshod over that, showing no restraint and using that delegation of authority, not for a national emergency, but for whatever his latest policy idea is and whatever leverage he wants to extract. We cannot allow that to happen and maintain the separation of powers that is so fundamental to the long-term well-being of our country. Senator Kaine is absolutely right. This is not a partisan question, it’s an institutional question: Do we see our role—do we see our responsibility—for maintaining that system of checks and balances? I do. That’s the heart of this matter.”
In his remarks from the Senate Floor, Senator Welch shared the concerns of impacted Vermonters, including farmers, food banks, manufactures, construction companies and homebuilders, maple sugar makers, and more.
Watch his full remarks here:
Earlier today, Senator Welch joined Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), Senator Tim Kaine (D-Va.) and Senator Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.) to slam the Administration’s trade war:
“Nobody supports tariffs economically. Economists have looked at this and they don’t work, and they do a lot of hurt…. We have an affordability crisis in this country. Working families are struggling to pay their bills. And just in Vermont—to make it very concrete—we get a lot of our electricity from Canada. We get a lot of our gasoline—on the northern part of Vermont—from Canada. We get our home heating fuel from Canada. And those bills for folks are going to go up immediately,” Senator Welch said.
“Canada is our friend. It’s not China. And along the border, where we have decades and decades of mutual respect, that’s starting to change—into distrust. And a confident country treats its allies with respect, and these tariffs are going to do direct and immediate economic harm to everyday Vermont families and farmers, maple sugar producers. But it’s also going to start eroding the trust that is the benefit of good relations over time…Totally bad. Totally wrong. Doomed. And the only question is: How much pain will he inflict on everyday Vermonters before he comes to his senses and withdraws this tariff policy?” Senator Welch concluded.
View the livestream here:
Background on S.J.Res. 37 and the Trade War:
The bipartisan joint resolution of disapproval, cosponsored by Welch and led by Sen. Tim Kaine (D-Va.), would terminate President Trump’s February 1st emergency declaration used to launch the trade war with Canada and eliminate the tariffs on Canadian imports. President Trump’s order cites the International Economic Emergency Powers Act (IEEPA), an unprecedented use of IEEPA in its nearly half-century history.
Senator Welch has blasted Trump’s tariffs and trade war and shared stories from constituents about how President Trump’s economic policies have impacted their businesses, farms, and communities. Recently, Senator Welch hosted a roundtable in Newport with Vermont and Canadian business leaders to discuss President Trump’s Trade War. He has also held events in St. Albans and virtually to hear directly from impacted Vermonters.
Canada is the largest trading partner for 34 U.S. states, including Vermont. In 2024 alone, trade with Canada accounted for 35% of Vermont’s exports, 67% of imports, and 56% of its total trade. One in four businesses in Vermont relies on trade with Canada.
In many cases, Vermont manufacturers buy imports from Canada to manufacture products. Tariffs on Canada threaten business closures and job layoffs, higher homebuilding costs, increased grain costs for farmers, and more expensive equipment for maple producers—among other costs that will get passed on to working families.
A new poll from AP-NORC found that a majority of voters—60%—disapprove of the president’s handling of trade negotiations, and 58% disapprove of his handling of the economy.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn)
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Betty McCollum (MN-04), Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, released the following statement in response to a report published by The Atlantic detailing the use of a commercial, open-source messaging service by senior Trump Administration officials including the Vice President and Secretary of Defense to discuss highly classified national security intelligence.
“The National Security Council has verified the authenticity of this jaw-dropping story, confirming the deepest fears of those of us who take national security seriously: Our national security protocols are being flouted by the highest-ranking officials in the U.S. government. The Republican majorities in both the House and Senate must immediately launch Congressional oversight investigations into this outrageous incident to understand if the inappropriate use of Signal is a widespread practice within the Trump Administration, whether the Espionage Act was violated, and how this security lapse impacts our relationships with intelligence-sharing partners around the globe.”
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn)
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Democrats across the country, as well as health care providers and advocates, are highlighting the negative impacts that face seniors, children, and working parents if the House Republican budget becomes law. Republicans’ budget sets up billions of dollars of cuts to Medicaid in order to pay for tax cuts for the wealthiest Americans and large corporations.
“House Republicans are using their majority to serve their wealthy donors at the expense of working families, children, and seniors,” said Congresswoman McCollum. “The budget Republicans passed in February could cut Medicaid by as much as $880 billion, which would weaken a critical healthcare lifeline that over a million Minnesotans rely on.”
“Nearly 1.3 million Minnesotans—about one quarter of our state—rely on Medicaid,” said Congresswoman McCollum in a statement following a vote on the budget in February. “A cut of this magnitude would have severe consequences for our entire population. Here in the Fourth District, 54,000 Minnesotans rely on SNAP to put food on the table. 172,000 rely on Medicaid for healthcare access, including nearly 90,000 children on CHIP. The health and well-being of our communities are under attack by this Republican majority. I will continue to oppose all Republican efforts to take away food, healthcare, and basic government services that Minnesotans rely on.”
To highlight the importance of Medicaid to East Metro residents and Minnesotans living in every corner of the state, Congresswoman McCollum called upon leaders in healthcare, homecare, labor unions, and disability advocacy to share how Medicaid cuts would impact their work and harm Minnesotans who rely on Medical Assistance.
“Cutting federal Medicaid funding will have a significant impact on Minnesota children with complex medical conditions and disabilities,” said Barbara Joers, President and CEO of Gillette Children’s Hospital. “These children often rely on Medicaid for access to necessary healthcare services, therapies, medications, medical equipment, and home-based care. Cuts to Medicaid would result in reduced coverage, limited access to specialists, longer wait times for services, and decreased quality of care for these at-risk populations.”
Congresswoman McCollum visited President Joers at Gillette Children’s on Tuesday morning for a discussion on how Medicaid cuts could impact patients.
Click here to watch.
“Medicaid plays a crucial role in ensuring that every child has access to the quality healthcare they need,” said Dr. Marc Gorelick, President and CEO of Children’s Minnesota. “At Children’s Minnesota, we see firsthand the profound impact of Medicaid. Nearly half of the patients we serve rely on Medicaid, which helps set up kids for a lifetime of success by providing access to essential preventative care, such as check-ups and vaccines, and effective treatment for chronic conditions. This proactive approach prevents more serious health issues that ultimately cost society more in the long run. Cutting Medicaid threatens access to these essential services for the kids and families we serve. An investment in Medicaid is an investment in our children, and ultimately an investment in a healthier future for all.”
“Many older adults and people with disabilities count on support through the Medicaid program when they’re unable to receive life-sustaining supports elsewhere,” said Kathy Messerli, Executive Director, MN Home Care Association (MHCA). “Chronic underfunding of these essential home and community-based services has already led to the closure of agencies in Minnesota and resulted in worse and at times no access to care for people who need it. Further cuts will lead to more Minnesotans without access to care or turning to safety net hospitals, which shifts the government costs to a more expensive setting.”
Medicaid is a lifeline for Minnesotans with disabilities. Sumer Spika, a mother and home care worker from St. Paul with SEIU Healthcare MN & IA, shared what Medicaid cuts would mean to thousands of families like hers.
“As a mother and a longtime home care worker who provided support for a wonderful young woman named Jayla for over a decade, when I think of potential cuts I think, ‘what would Jayla do without Medicaid?’ If there was no funding, it would mean there would be no care for her and no access to equipment that allowed her to live her life,” said Spika. “Medicaid meant not just a person to help with her care, it meant things like hearing aids and fire alarms that have flashing lights because she can’t hear. It meant getting care for a heart disorder. It means a lifeline and coverage for millions of people. The thought of cutting even one penny to give tax breaks for billionaires is so offensive I can’t believe it is even being considered.”
“Medicaid allows people with disabilities to work, participate in community activities, volunteer and do everything other people often take for granted,” said Linda Wolford, M.S., Government Relations Director at the Minnesota Council on Disability. “Also, the direct care workers who provide care to people with disabilities contribute to the economy as Medicaid funding provides them with jobs. The unemployment rate would also likely increase if Medicaid payments are reduced or cut off as there are thousands of people who work in the service delivery system for people with disabilities and seniors.”
MINNESOTA MEDICAID SNAPSHOT:
1,184,597 Minnesotans are enrolled in Minnesota’s Medicaid program, known as Medical Assistance
33% of births in Minnesota are covered by Medicaid
1 in 3 Minnesota children are covered by Medicaid
5 in 9 nursing home residents are covered by Medicaid
1 in 3 working age adults are covered by Medicaid
In MN-04, the 172,477 people on Medicaid are at risk of losing their health care under Republican budget. This includes 89,871 children under the age of 19 and 14,000 seniors over 65 in MN-04.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn)
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Democrats across the country, as well as health care providers and advocates, are highlighting the negative impacts that face seniors, children, and working parents if the House Republican budget becomes law. Republicans’ budget sets up billions of dollars of cuts to Medicaid in order to pay for tax cuts for the wealthiest Americans and large corporations.
“House Republicans are using their majority to serve their wealthy donors at the expense of working families, children, and seniors,” said Congresswoman McCollum. “The budget Republicans passed in February could cut Medicaid by as much as $880 billion, which would weaken a critical healthcare lifeline that over a million Minnesotans rely on.”
“Nearly 1.3 million Minnesotans—about one quarter of our state—rely on Medicaid,” said Congresswoman McCollum in a
statement
following a vote on the budget in February. “A cut of this magnitude would have severe consequences for our entire population. Here in
To highlight the importance of Medicaid to East Metro residents and Minnesotans living in every corner of the state, Congresswoman McCollum called upon leaders in healthcare, homecare, labor unions, and disability advocacy to share how Medicaid cuts would impact their work and harm Minnesotans who rely on Medical Assistance.
“Cutting federal Medicaid funding will have a significant impact on Minnesota children with complex medical conditions and disabilities,” said Barbara Joers, President and CEO of Gillette Children’s Hospital. “These children often rely on Medicaid for access to necessary healthcare services, therapies, medications, medical equipment, and home-based care. Cuts to Medicaid would result in reduced coverage, limited access to specialists, longer wait times for services, and decreased quality of care for these at-risk populations.”
Congresswoman McCollum visited President Joers at Gillette Children’s on Tuesday morning for a discussion on how Medicaid cuts could impact patients.
Click here to watch.
“Medicaid plays a crucial role in ensuring that every child has access to the quality healthcare they need,” said Dr. Marc Gorelick, President and CEO of Children’s Minnesota. “At Children’s Minnesota, we see firsthand the profound impact of Medicaid. Nearly half of the patients we serve rely on Medicaid, which helps set up kids for a lifetime of success by providing access to essential preventative care, such as check-ups and vaccines, and effective treatment for chronic conditions. This proactive approach prevents more serious health issues that ultimately cost society more in the long run. Cutting Medicaid threatens access to these essential services for the kids and families we serve. An investment in Medicaid is an investment in our children, and ultimately an investment in a healthier future for all.”
“Many older adults and people with disabilities count on support through the Medicaid program when they’re unable to receive life-sustaining supports elsewhere,” said Kathy Messerli, Executive Director, MN Home Care Association (MHCA). “Chronic underfunding of these essential home and community-based services has already led to the closure of agencies in Minnesota and resulted in worse and at times no access to care for people who need it. Further cuts will lead to more Minnesotans without access to care or turning to safety net hospitals, which shifts the government costs to a more expensive setting.”
Medicaid is a lifeline for Minnesotans with disabilities. Sumer Spika, a mother and home care worker from St. Paul with SEIU Healthcare MN & IA, shared what Medicaid cuts would mean to thousands of families like hers.
“As a mother and a longtime home care worker who provided support for a wonderful young woman named Jayla for over a decade, when I think of potential cuts I think, ‘what would Jayla do without Medicaid?’ If there was no funding, it would mean there would be no care for her and no access to equipment that allowed her to live her life,” said Spika. “Medicaid meant not just a person to help with her care, it meant things like hearing aids and fire alarms that have flashing lights because she can’t hear. It meant getting care for a heart disorder. It means a lifeline and coverage for millions of people. The thought of cutting even one penny to give tax breaks for billionaires is so offensive I can’t believe it is even being considered.”
“Medicaid allows people with disabilities to work, participate in community activities, volunteer and do everything other people often take for granted,” said Linda Wolford, M.S., Government Relations Director at the Minnesota Council on Disability. “Also, the direct care workers who provide care to people with disabilities contribute to the economy as Medicaid funding provides them with jobs. The unemployment rate would also likely increase if Medicaid payments are reduced or cut off as there are thousands of people who work in the service delivery system for people with disabilities and seniors.”
MINNESOTA MEDICAID SNAPSHOT:
1,184,597 Minnesotans are enrolled in Minnesota’s Medicaid program, known as Medical Assistance
33% of births in Minnesota are covered by Medicaid
1 in 3 Minnesota children are covered by Medicaid
5 in 9 nursing home residents are covered by Medicaid
1 in 3 working age adults are covered by Medicaid
In MN-04, the 172,477 people on Medicaid are at risk of losing their health care under Republican budget. This includes 89,871 children under the age of 19 and 14,000 seniors over 65 in MN-04.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn)
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman Betty McCollum (D, MN-04), Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, released the following statement on Friday:
“Each of the 18 senior Trump administration national security officials on the ‘Signal Houthi PC’ group chat—including the Vice President, Secretary of Defense, Secretary of State, Treasury Secretary, CIA Director, Director of National Intelligence, National Security Advisor, and White House Chief of Staff—must be held accountable. Each of them failed in their sworn responsibility to ensure that a classified discussion take place on a secure channel. Each of them failed to intervene when this information was freely shared on an open commercial messaging app. Each of their actions fundamentally compromised an impending U.S. military operation and put the lives of American servicemembers at great risk.
“President Trump’s national security team clearly broke laws designed to protect the American people, including mishandling classified information and failing to preserve federal government records in accordance with the Presidential Records Act. The Trump Administration has broken the trust of the American people, especially the dedicated women and men of the Intelligence Community and those who serve in the military who were put in harm’s way.
“Several of these officials served in the military, including Vice President Vance, Secretary Hegseth, Director Gabbard, and Mr. Waltz. If any of them had released classified information while wearing the uniform, accountability would have been swift and severe. Yet as members of the Trump Administration, they’ve faced no accountability whatsoever.
“In the United States of America, it is unacceptable to have one set of a laws for political appointees of President Trump and another set of laws for everyone else. Congress must immediately issue subpoenas, hold hearings, and fully investigate this reckless and illegal conduct that put American lives at risk.”
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Betty McCollum (DFL-Minn)
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswoman McCollum (D, MN-04), Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, issued the following statement on Wednesday:
“The Department of Defense specificallyprohibitsDoD personnel from using Signal to share non-public information. Secretary Hegseth shared detailed information in the Signal chat about an impending military strike — a clear and obvious violation of his own department’s policy. This information in the hands of adversaries would certainly put American lives at risk.
“If anyone else in the military did what Secretary Hegseth did, they would be fired immediately, could be dishonorably discharged, and certainly would lose their security clearance.
“We cannot have one set of rules for the Secretary and another set of rules for everyone else. Everyone on the Signal chat must be held fully accountable, including the other 18 senior Trump Administration officials who had a duty to intervene immediately. Each of them failed to do that.
“Republicans in Congress must immediately issue subpoenas, hold hearings, and investigate this reckless conduct.”
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Trent Kelly (R-Miss)
Lawmakers Issue Letter Endorsing State Request for Federal Disaster Declaration
Washington, April 2, 2025
Washington, D.C. – The Mississippi congressional delegation today shared their strong support for Governor Tate Reeves’ request for a federal disaster declaration after deadly weather struck the state on March 14-15.
U.S. Senators Roger Wicker, R-Miss., and Cindy Hyde-Smith, R-Miss., and U.S. Representatives Bennie Thompson, D-Miss., Trent Kelly, R-Miss., Michael Guest, R-Miss., and Mike Ezell, R-Miss., sent President Trump a letter endorsing the governor’s request for an expedited major disaster declaration for the State of Mississippi, and for individual federal assistance for 14 counties. If approved, the presidential disaster declaration would unlock additional federal resources to supplement state recovery efforts.
“In the wake of recent extreme weather that brought severe thunderstorms and violent tornadoes to the State of Mississippi, we request your full consideration of Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves’ request for a federal disaster declaration,” the lawmakers wrote.
The letter follows a preliminary disaster assessment, which highlights the extent of loss of life, injuries, and damage.
“Available resources from state and local governments and volunteer organizations are inadequate to meet the state’s recovery needs. Significant federal assistance and cooperation are needed for Mississippi to rebuild,” the lawmakers wrote.
To read the full letter, please click on the link.
PHOENIX, Ariz. – Timothy Courchaine, United States Attorney for the District of Arizona, announces a 20-count indictment against 14 individuals from Arizona, for Conspiracy to Submit a Material False Statement During the Purchase of a Firearm and related charges. The indictment was unsealed today.
The indictment alleges that between July 15, 2023, and December 23, 2023, 13 individuals were paid to buy belt-fed rifles and Barrett .50 caliber semi-automatic rifles from licensed firearms dealers in and around Phoenix and Yuma for David Moreno Quevedo. As part of the conspiracy, these individuals lied on the Firearms Transaction Record, known as ATF Form 4473, claiming that they were purchasing the rifles for themselves. The charged conspirators include:
David Moreno Quevedo, 26, of El Mirage;
Mario Alberto Ayala, Jr., 23, of Maricopa;
Randy Obed Valenzuela Chinchillas, 24, of Phoenix;
Aidee Espinoza, 29, of Phoenix;
Todd Robert Nuttall, 52, of Gilbert;
Earl Marlow Burch, 49, of Mesa;
Wyatt Michael Fernandez, 26, of Tempe;
Jorge Luis Roman, 28, of Mesa;
Dylan Morgan Burch, 21, of Eloy;
Shawna Marie O’Shea, 56, of Tempe;
Damaris Davila Moreno, 22, of Phoenix;
Noelia Valenzuela Gomez, 25, of Chandler;
Melissa Osorio Talamante, 31, of San Tan Valley; and
Michael Andrew Wingate, 31, of Mesa.
A conviction for the crime of Conspiracy carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both. A conviction for the crime of Material False Statement During the Purchase of a Firearm carries a maximum penalty of 10 years, a $250,000 fine, or both.
An indictment is simply a method by which a person is charged with criminal activity and raises no inference of guilt. An individual is presumed innocent until evidence is presented to a jury that establishes guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation in this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Marcus W. Shand, District of Arizona, Phoenix, is handling the prosecution.
CASE NUMBER: CR-25-00432-PHX-MTL RELEASE NUMBER: 2025-048_Quevedo, et al
# # #
For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/ Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZfor the latest news.
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April 1, 2025
Albany, NY
“Under Presidents Biden and Trump, I have been clear that I would work with the federal government to help secure our borders and deport violent criminals who pose a threat. But I cannot think of any public safety justification for ICE agents to rip an innocent family, including a child in the third grade, from their Sackets Harbor home. That is not the immigration enforcement promised to the American people. It’s just plain cruel. I want this family returned to New York State and believe ICE needs to immediately answer for these actions.”
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April 2, 2025
Albany, NY
“Since the start of the Trump administration, the constant threat of tariffs has caused nothing but chaos and uncertainty. Tariffs are estimated to cost Americans upwards of $6,500, 401(k)s are plummeting and businesses that rely on tourism are feeling the negative impacts of the loss of our Canadian visitors from Niagara Falls to Montauk Point.
“Don’t be fooled, this so-called ‘Liberation Day’ is nothing but a reckless tax on hard working New Yorkers that is hurting small businesses, driving up costs for families and alienating our long standing global partnerships. This is not how you grow an economy, it’s how you tank one.”
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The State of New York does not imply approval of the listed destinations, warrant the accuracy of any information set out in those destinations, or endorse any opinions expressed therein. External web sites operate at the direction of their respective owners who should be contacted directly with questions regarding the content of these sites.
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April 2, 2025
Albany, NY
“Today, Donald Trump enacted the largest tax hike in American history, skyrocketed New Yorkers’ costs by over $6,000 per year, and sent Wall Street into a full blown panic.
“Trump’s tariff proposal isn’t ‘liberating.’ It’s destructive and devastating for the millions of Americans already struggling to make ends meet.
“Here in New York, I’m doing everything in my power to bring down costs and grow our economy. The White House needs to work with us, not against us.”
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e acerca el 15 de abril del 2025, la fecha límite para presentar su declaración de impuestos. Sin embargo, hay buenas noticias. Si no debe dinero en impuestos, tiene tres años para presentar su declaración de impuestos sin ninguna penalidad y aún recibir su reembolso. Además, gracias al Programa de Infraestructura Fiscal del Departamento de Servicios Humanos de Oregon, hay muchos lugares en donde puede obtener ayuda gratis para presentar su declaración de impuestos.
Para muchas personas, sobre todo para aquellas con ingresos bajos o que trabajan medio tiempo o por temporadas, les corresponde un reembolso gracias a los impuestos que les retuvieron de su pago durante el año y los créditos fiscales disponibles.
Pero, ¿por qué esperar tres años si le corresponde un reembolso de impuestos? No deje que la fecha límite del 15 de abril le impida presentar su declaración de impuestos este año. Puede que sea demasiado tarde para conseguir una cita antes del 15 de abril, pero muchos lugares en donde puede presentar su declaración de impuestos gratis toman un descanso después del 15 de abril, vuelven a abrir en mayo, y trabajan hasta el 15 de octubre.
También es bastante común que reciba una carta del Departamento de Impuestos de Oregon o del Servicio de Impuestos Internos federal de dos a tres meses después de que haya presentado su declaración de impuestos, pidiéndole más información. Los servicios gratuitos para presentar su declaración de impuestos pueden ayudarle a responder a la carta, incluyendo traducirla a otros idiomas si es necesario.
Obtenga más información sobre los créditos fiscales, fechas límite y dónde encontrar ayuda gratis para presentar sus impuestos en: https://www.oregon.gov/odhs/es/Pages/ayuda-con-impuestos.aspx
El Programa de Infraestructura Fiscal del Departamento de Servicios Humanos de Oregon (The Tax Infrastructure Grant Program) les da fondos a las organizaciones que son culturalmente relevantes o culturalmente específicas, a los gobiernos tribales y a las organizaciones comunitarias rurales para ayudar a educar y brindar ayuda gratuita para presentar declaraciones de impuestos a las personas con ingresos bajos. La ayuda está disponible en varios idiomas. El dinero de la ayuda también se usa para aumentar el número de preparadores de impuestos certificados en Oregon.
Dónde puede obtener ayuda gratis para presentar su declaración de impuestos
211Info: Llame al 2-1-1 or envíe un correo electrónico a help@211info.org para obtener una lista de toda la ayuda gratuita para presentar la declaración de impuestos.
Organización Comunitaria para Inmigrantes y Refugiados (Immigrant and Refugee Community Organization, IRCO); TAX@irco.org; 971-427-3993; Portland, Ontario
Having the freedom to choose your own health care provider is something many Americans take for granted. But the Supreme Court is weighing whether people who rely on Medicaid for their health insurance have that right, and if they do – is it enforceable by law?
“There’s a right, and the right is the right to choose your doctor,” said Justice Elena Kagan on April 2, 2025, during oral arguments on the case. John J. Bursch, the Alliance Defending Freedom lawyer who is representing South Carolina Director of Health and Human Services Eunice Medina, countered that none of the words in the underlying statute had what he called a “rights-creating pedigree.”
The case started with Julie Edwards, who is enrolled in Medicaid and lives in South Carolina. After she struggled to get contraceptive services, she was able to receive care from a Planned Parenthood South Atlantic clinic in Columbia, South Carolina.
Planned Parenthood and Edwards sued South Carolina, claiming that the state was violating the federal Medicare and Medicaid Act, which Congress passed in 1965, by not letting Edwards obtain care from the provider of her choice.
A ‘free-choice-of-provider’ requirement
Medicaid operates as a partnership between the federal government and the states. Congress passed the law that led to its creation based on its power under the Constitution’s spending clause, which allows Congress to subject federal funds to certain requirements.
Two years later, due to concerns that states were restricting which providers Medicaid recipients could choose, Congress added a “free-choice-of-provider” requirement to the program. It states that people enrolled in Medicaid “may obtain such assistance from any institution, agency, community pharmacy, or person, qualified to perform the service or services required.”
This provision is at the core of this case. At issue is whether a civil rights statute provides a right for Medicaid beneficiaries to sue a state when their federal rights have been violated. Known as Section 1983, it was enacted in 1871.
Bursch, backed by the Trump administration, argued before the court that the absence of words like “right” in the Medicaid provision that requires states to provide a free choice of provider means that neither Edwards nor Planned Parenthood has the authority to file a lawsuit to enforce this aspect of the Medicaid statute.
Nicole A. Saharsky, Planned Parenthood’s lawyer, argued that the creation of a right shouldn’t depend on “some kind of magic words test.” Instead, she said it was clear that the Medicaid statute created “a right to choose their own doctor” because “it’s mandatory” that the state provide this option to everyone with health insurance through Medicaid.
She also emphasized that Congress wanted to protect “an intensely personal right” to be able “to choose your doctor, the person that you see when you’re at your most vulnerable, facing … some of the most significant … challenges to your life and your health.”
Restricting Medicaid funds
Through a federal law known as the Hyde Amendment, Medicaid cannot reimburse health care providers for the cost of abortions, with a few exceptions: when a patient’s life is at risk or her pregnancy is due to rape or incest. Some states do cover abortion when their laws allow it, without using any federal funds.
McMaster explained that he removed “abortion clinics,” including Planned Parenthood, from the South Carolina Medicaid Program because he didn’t want state funds to indirectly subsidize abortions.
South Carolina “decided that Planned Parenthood was unqualified for many reasons, chiefly because they’re the nation’s largest abortion provider,” Bursch told the Supreme Court.
And the Supreme Court has long recognized that Section 1983 protects an individual’s ability to sue when their rights under a federal statute have been violated.
The court’s decision in the Medina case on whether Medicaid patients can choose their own health care provider could have consequences far beyond South Carolina. Arkansas, Missouri and Texas have already barred Planned Parenthood from getting reimbursed by Medicaid for any kind of health care. More states could follow suit.
In addition, given Planned Parenthood’s role in providing expansive contraceptive care, disqualifying it from Medicaid could harm access to health care and increase the already-high unintended pregnancy rate in America.
The ramifications, likewise, could extend beyond the finances of Planned Parenthood.
If the court rules in South Carolina’s favor, states could also try to exclude providers based on other characteristics, such as whether their employees belong to unions or if they provide their patients with gender-affirming care, further restricting patients’ choices.
Or, as Kagan observed, states could go the opposite direction and exclude providers that don’t provide abortions and so forth. What’s really at stake, she said, is whether a patient is “entitled to see” the provider they choose regardless of what their state happens to “think about contraception or abortion or gender transition treatment.”
If the Supreme Court rules that Edwards does have a right to get health care at a Planned Parenthood clinic, the controversy would not be over. The lower courts would then have to decide whether South Carolina appropriately removed Planned Parenthood from Medicaid as an “unqualified provider.”
And if the Supreme Court rules in favor of South Carolina, then Planned Parenthood could still sue South Carolina over its decision to find them to be unqualified.
The authors do not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and have disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
Source: United States Senator for Hawaii Brian Schatz
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) led a group of 16 senators in introducing a resolution designating April 2025 as “Preserving and Protecting Local News Month.” The resolution underscores the vital role of local journalism in American democracy, especially as the First Amendment faces mounting threats from the Trump administration.
“Americans rely on local news to stay informed about their communities and hold leaders accountable,” said Senator Schatz. “At a time when the free press is under attack — including from the current White House — it’s more important than ever to stand up for local journalism and the essential public service it provides.”
Overall employment in newspaper, television, radio, and digital newsrooms in the United States fell by roughly 26 percent, or 30,000 jobs, from 2008-2020. Schatz’s resolution affirms the significance of local news in increasing civic engagement and strengthening democratic norms and practices, and it recognizes the invaluable contributions of local journalists in maintaining healthy and vibrant communities.
The resolution is co-sponsored by U.S. Senators Angus King (I-Maine), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), and Michael Bennet (D-Colo.).
The resolution has been endorsed by PEN America.
“In an age defined by rampant falsehoods and receding civic trust, robust local journalism that informs and empowers communities is a prerequisite for renewing American democracy,” said Hadar Harris, Managing Director of PEN America Washington. “Congressional attention to the local news crisis helps shine a spotlight on why local news is so important. PEN America lauds Senator Schatz’s resolution, which reaffirms the role local news must play in our society as an essential and widely accessible public good.”
Schatz has led efforts in the Senate to strengthen local news, previously introducing the Future of Local News Act, legislation that would create a committee to study the state of local journalism and offer recommendations to Congress on the actions it can take to best support local news organizations.
The full text of the resolution is available here.
Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts Ed Markey
Washington (April 2, 2025) – Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) today joined Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) along with Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), and Senators Angela Alsobrooks (D-Md.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.) and the entire Senate Democratic Caucus in urging President Donald Trump to rescind his March 27 executive order to end collective bargaining agreements between public employee unions and dozens of federal agencies and bureaus. In their letter, the Democratic Senators blasted the move as a “gross overreach” of presidential authority, asserting that the executive order is a clear attempt to gut the federal merit-based civil service and implement a system of political cronyism. They stressed that the order poses a grave threat to the ability of over 1 million federal workers to carry out their missions and deliver important services for the American people – and thus should be rescinded immediately.
“We write today in outrage over your recent executive order entitled Exclusions from Federal Labor-Management Relations Programs, a gross overreach of the authority granted in the Civil Service Reform Act of 1978 (CSRA). This order is an insult to the hardworking public servants who go to work on behalf of the American people,” the Senators began.
“The executive order effectively classifies two thirds of the federal workforce as having national security missions, a blatant misuse of a limited authority intended to provide operational flexibility to address legitimate security needs,” they continued. “There is no evidence that the long-standing collective bargaining agreements at these agencies have jeopardized our nation’s security in any way; to the contrary, the protection collective bargaining has provided for employees allows them to conduct their work on behalf of the American people—including blowing the whistle on fraud or abuse—without political interference.”
“This Administration clearly does not have even a basic understanding of the legally binding nature of federal collective bargaining agreements and is actively trying to bend the law to undermine protections for federal civil servants. We urge you to immediately rescind this illegal executive order so that our dedicated public servants can continue to work on behalf of the American public without fear for their job or political retribution,” the Senators concluded.
The Senators’ letter is endorsed by the American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO), American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), National Treasury Employees Union (NTEU), International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE), and Service Employees International Union (SEIU).
Senator Van Hollen, Democratic Leader Schumer, and Senators Alsobrooks, Warner, and Kaine were joined on this letter by Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Ruben Gallego (D-Ariz.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Andy Kim (D-N.J.), Angus King (I-Maine), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Elissa Slotkin (D-Mich.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.).
A copy of the letter is available HERE.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-Florida 20th district))
WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congresswoman Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL) issued the following statement on a series of sweeping tariffs announced by the Administration.
“These across-the-board tariffs do absolutely nothing to bring down the cost of living for Florida households who are being stretched thin. Instead, they will mean the exact opposite — higher prices at a time of sky-rocketing costs. Tariffs will cause needless uncertainty for South Florida businesses unable to forecast and plan for trade wars that they have zero control over.
“I also remain concerned that these tariffs will gravely undermine long-standing relationships with trading partners and threaten America’s standing with critical allies. Our adversaries are the ones who stand to gain here.
“Plain and simple, these tariffs are a tax on South Florida families and fail to protect American jobs. I urge the Administration to pause before Floridians pay the price.”
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Dale Strong (Alabama)
WASHINGTON—Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed two bipartisan bills introduced by Representative Dale W. Strong: the SHIELD Against CCP Act and the Research Security and Accountability in DHS Act.
SHIELD Against CCP Act, H.R. 708
The SHIELD Against CCP Act would create a dedicated DHS working group to address threats from the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). This group would be responsible for examining, assessing, and reporting on the range of nontraditional tactics used by the CCP and DHS’s efforts to counter these activities.
“China is one of the biggest threats to our country, taking every opportunity over the last 4 years to exploit Biden’s open borders. This bill will ensure that DHS has a dedicated team actively working to combat this threat,” said Strong.
Research Security and Accountability in DHS Act, H.R. 901
The Research Security and Accountability in DHS Act would require the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) to establish a process for safeguarding sensitive information in research and development projects, preventing unauthorized access and disclosure. It would also require the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to report to Congress on DHS’s compliance with governmentwide policies to safeguard research and development.
“Chinese espionage is one of our country’s greatest threats. Preserving the integrity of DHS research and safeguarding innovation are essential to national security. This legislation strengthens protections against unauthorized access to sensitive information, ensuring the security of our nation’s research and development efforts,” said Strong.
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Rep. Strong championed the SHIELD Against CCP Act in the 118th Congress — which passed the House of Representatives with broad bipartisan support.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Dale Strong (Alabama)
WASHINGTON — Today, Representative Dale Strong (AL-05) led his first congressional hearing as the Chairman of the Subcommittee on Emergency Management and Technology.
The hearing evaluated the current role of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), particularly its handling of taxpayer dollars, expanding mission sets, and coordination with state and local governments in response to natural disasters and emergencies.
“In the interest of ensuring our homeland is resilient and prepared for all types of disasters, it is fitting that this Subcommittee’s first hearing is on FEMA — the nation’s primary disaster relief agency. FEMA oversees national preparedness grants and federal disaster assistance, coordinates relief efforts, and ensures our nation is able to prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters,” said Chairman Strong.
With over four decades of experience as a first responder, having served the people of Alabama as both an EMT and volunteer firefighter, Strong is committed to using this Subcommittee to advance the cause of first responders and emergency managers across the nation, making sure they are prepared and resilient against all challenges.
“Recent events have overwhelmed our states and localities and challenged their ability to mobilize and help their communities. Our states and localities deserve all the help they can get in protecting people’s lives and property against deadly disasters. The aid that FEMA delivers before and after disasters is greatly appreciated and greatly needed. But as recent events demonstrate, there is room for improvement,” said Strong.
Chairman Strong welcomed four witnesses to the hearing to testify, including Alabama Emergency Management Agency Director Jeff Smitherman.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Dale Strong (Alabama)
WASHINGTON— This week, Chairman Dale W. Strong invited unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) subject matter experts and industry leaders from Huntsville to testify before the Committee on Homeland Security on the use of UAS in support of the Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) mission.
“Huntsville, Alabama, is renowned for its leadership in cutting-edge research and development. As home to Redstone Arsenal, the nation’s second-largest research park, and several universities, Huntsville is a thriving hub for American innovation. I am pleased that Alabama’s fifth district is well represented on the witness panel,” said Chairman Dale Strong.
The joint hearing, entitled, “Exploring the Use of Unmanned Aircraft Systems Across the DHS Enterprise” was led by Representative Dale Strong (AL-05), Chairman of the Subcommittee on Emergency Management and Technology, and Representative Michael Guest (MS-03), Chairman of the Subcommittee on Border Security and Enforcement.
The hearing examined the Department of Homeland Security’s use of UAS for purposes such as disaster mitigation, emergency management, border protection, and drug interdiction.
“Emerging technologies like UAS are reshaping the way we respond to disasters. Drones enable the protection of emergency management personnel in high-risk situations, while at the same time increase the effectiveness of the work they do.
“DHS also utilizes UAS to safeguard our borders. They leverage this technology to protect our homeland from illegal crossings and combat illicit activities such as human and drug smuggling. Customs and Border Protection face tremendous challenges, from dangerous environments and a broadening mission set to adversaries that continue to evolve their tactics and capabilities,” said Chairman Strong.
Two witnesses from Huntsville— Dr. Michael Ledbetter, Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, of COLSA Corporation, and Jerry Hendrix, Executive Director of Rotorcraft Systems Engineering and Simulation Center, the University of Alabama in Huntsville— shared the work they are doing in this space.
“COLSA has designed and developed highly reliable and resilient UAS, and manufactured thousands of units currently deployed worldwide. We also developed software to coordinate UAS swarming. COLSA is now a leading provider of low-cost, non-developmental, deployable Group 1 and Group 2 Swarm UAS. As the Prime contractor, the primary objective of drone program is to provide realistic responses to emerging battlespace threats from UAS by rapidly designing, manufacturing, producing, and delivering representative threat capabilities,” said Dr. Michael Ledbetter.
The hearing also examined the Department’s efforts to develop these systems by collaborating with academia and industry to integrate emerging technologies into the DHS mission.
“UAH is part of a tier 1 research university that ranks 6th in federal investment in aeronautical and aerospace engineering research. The center specializes in autonomous research focusing on uncrewed systems and counter-uncrewed systems. Our unmanned aircraft system (UAS) disaster research has been recognized nationally by the Commercial Drone Alliance in testimony to the House Space, Science, and Technology Committee in 2023. UAH’s research was specified as one of the top 8 UAS programs to ‘Bring benefit to the American People,’” said Jerry Hendrix.
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Dale Strong (Alabama)
WASHINGTON—Today, Representative Dale W. Strong (AL-05) visited with the Scottsboro Police Department after securing $120,000 for new vehicles through community project funding in the Fiscal Year 2024 (FY24) appropriations package.
The congressionally directed spending enabled the Scottsboro Police Department to purchase new vehicles for their law enforcement officers to replace vehicles approaching the end of their operational life.
“I am proud to have secured $120,000 in funding for the Scottsboro Police Department to purchase and outfit new patrol vehicles. This investment ensures our officers have the reliable equipment they need to protect and serve their community.
“Supporting our law enforcement is essential to maintaining the safety and well-being of North Alabama’s residents. Investments like this not only enhance public safety but demonstrate our unwavering support for the brave men and women who serve,” said Representative Dale Strong.
Scottsboro Police Department was able to purchase two fully outfitted Ford Police Inceptor Utility vehicles. These vehicles permit the Department to investigate crimes on all severity levels with better and more up-to-date equipment.
“We would like to thank Congressman Dale Strong and his office for allowing the Scottsboro Police Department the opportunity to apply for and obtain federal dollars through his office,” said Scottsboro Police Lieutenant Coty Durham. “With the funding from Congressman Strong, the Scottsboro Police Department was able to purchase new patrol vehicles in order to better serve our citizens!”
Source: United States House of Representatives – Representative Dale Strong (Alabama)
WASHINGTON — The U.S. House of Representatives unanimously passed Representative Dale W. Strong’s DHS Biodetection Improvement Act, marking the third bill led by the Congressman to pass the House just this week.
The DHS Biodetection Improvement Act, H.R. 706, would strengthen U.S. biodefense by ensuring the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) is prepared to counter bioterrorism threats.
“The threats we face today are increasingly complex and evolving. It is important that we stay one step ahead of our adversaries. This will improve the effectiveness of DHS’s mission to protect our national security and safeguard our interests,” said Representative Dale Strong.
Following the 2001 anthrax attacks, DHS launched the BioWatch program to monitor, collect, and test air samples for biological threats; however, breakdowns in accurate and timely information sharing and lagging technological upgrades show that DHS has fallen behind.
“As a first responder, I know there is more work to be done to harden our defenses against bioterrorism. This legislation will ensure DHS is utilizing every possible tool to protect Americans,” said Strong.
Earlier this week, the House of Representatives passed two pieces of legislation introduced by Rep. Strong to improve DHS’s mission to protect our national security and safeguard American interests.
H.R. 708, the SHIELD Against CCP Act, would establish a dedicated DHS working group to counter threats from the Chinese Communist Party. It passed the House on March 10 by a vote of 410 to 1.
H.R. 901, the Research Security and Accountability in DHS Act, would require DHS to implement policies to safeguard sensitive research and development projects and prevent unauthorized access to, and disclosure of, such information. It passed the House unanimously on March 10.
“The Biden Administration’s reckless open border policies diverted DHS from completing its core mission to keep America safe. While the agency was stretched thin, they were unable to focus on priorities that matter most, like countering China’s influence, safeguarding sensitive information, and combatting bioterrorism threats. These bills are a step towards improving the effectiveness of DHS,” said Strong.
All three bills now await consideration in the Senate.
April 2, 2025Miami, FL, United StatesEnforcement and Removal
MIAMI – U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement announced today the reinstatement of the intergovernmental service agreement with the Glades County Board of County Commissioners to house ICE detainees at the Glades County Jail in Moore Haven, Florida. This agreement reestablishes the federal immigration processing and detention center and creates up to 500 additional beds.
“The Glades County Jail center will serve as a staging area and allow greater capacity to address our immigration enforcement mission,” said acting Miami ICE Field Office Director Juan Agudelo. “The central location streamlines logistics and helps facilitate the timely processing of illegal aliens in our custody that are subject to arrest, detention and removal from our country.”
The facility will expand ICE’s detention capacity in Florida, enhancing the agency’s ability to manage the region’s growing enforcement and removal operations.
Source: United States Senator for Massachusetts – Elizabeth Warren
April 02, 2025
Warren, Schumer, Hirono Open Investigation into DOGE’s AI Chatbot Plan to Replace Education Department Call Centers
This comes as Senator Warren launches Save Our Schools campaign
“Given DOGE’s record of prioritizing chaos over competence, there is little reason to believe that DOGE’s AI chatbot would genuinely serve the needs of borrowers and families.”
Text of Letter (PDF)
Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), along with Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), sent a letter to Secretary of Education Linda McMahon regarding the Department of Government Efficiency’s (DOGE) proposed plan to replace the Department of Education’s (ED or the Department) federal student aid call centers with generative artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots.
“DOGE’s proposal threatens to misinform borrowers and families, lead to data privacy breaches, and pose conflicts of interest arising from Elon Musk’s financial stake in AI development,” wrote the senators.
Given that generative AI chatbots, such as Chat-GPT and Gemini, are known to “hallucinate” convincing but factually incorrect information, the senators raised concerns that a generative AI student aid chatbot could provide inaccurate information that, among other problems, could lead borrowers to enroll in a student loan repayment plan that is inappropriate for their financial situation, mislead students about their Pell Grant eligibility, or provide incorrect advice on how to interpret colleges’ financial aid offers or misinform families on how to fill out the FAFSA.
According to the senators, DOGE’s proposal also raises concerns regarding the privacy of students, families, and borrowers. Experts warn that if sensitive data is not properly safeguarded, generative AI chatbots could inadvertently leak personal data during interactions with users or even leave that data vulnerable to cybercriminals. The AI chatbot’s conversations with users would constitute yet another stream of government data that Mr. Musk could use to gain a competitive advantage for xAI.
“Given DOGE’s record of prioritizing chaos over competence, there is little reason to believe that DOGE’s AI chatbot would genuinely serve the needs of borrowers and families,” wrote the senators.
The senators demand a response from Secretary McMahon regarding their concerns by April 15, 2025. This letter comes on the same day that Senator Warren launches her Save Our Schools campaign to fight back against the Trump Administration’s efforts to dismantle the Department of Education and highlight the consequences for every student and public school in America.
