U.S. Congress
Here's a look at documents from all members of the U.S. House and the U.S. Senate
Featured Stories
Congressman Bean Announces 2026 Congressional Art Competition Winners in Florida's Fourth District
WASHINGTON, April 13 -- Rep. Aaron Bean, R-Florida, issued the following news release:
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Congressman Bean Announces 2026 Congressional Art Competition Winners in Florida's Fourth District
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WASHINGTON -U.S. Congressman Aaron Bean (FL-04) announced the winners of the 2026 Congressional Art Competition for Florida's Fourth Congressional District during a celebratory reception held at the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens. A total of 17 students from across the district submitted 19 artistic pieces pertaining to the theme "Sunshine, Strength and Service."
The winners of the 2026 Congressional
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, April 13 -- Rep. Aaron Bean, R-Florida, issued the following news release:
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Congressman Bean Announces 2026 Congressional Art Competition Winners in Florida's Fourth District
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WASHINGTON -U.S. Congressman Aaron Bean (FL-04) announced the winners of the 2026 Congressional Art Competition for Florida's Fourth Congressional District during a celebratory reception held at the Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens. A total of 17 students from across the district submitted 19 artistic pieces pertaining to the theme "Sunshine, Strength and Service."
The winners of the 2026 CongressionalArt Competition are listed below:
GRAND PRIZE WINNER : Hailey Nalepa, It Doesn't Happen Alone, Clay High School
CLAY COUNTY
Winner: Maya Vasquez, 6th Period, Orange Park High School
Runner-Up: Lily Porrazza, Firehouse Companions, Orange Park High School
DUVAL COUNTY
Winner: Jennet Koroglu, The Garden of Growth, Stanton College Preparatory School
Runner-up: Jackson Sanders, Bravery, William Raines High School
NASSAU COUNTY
Winner: Breanna Rodriguez-Rollins, Daddy's Girl, Fernandina Beach High School
Runner-Up: Shelby Rothenberg, Patience, Fernandina Beach High School
BACKGROUND
This year's theme honors the workers, neighbors, and everyday heroes who shape American life. It highlights the contributions of hardworking Floridians, including teachers, postal workers, nurses, veterans, and many others whose daily efforts often go unseen but are essential to strengthening our communities.
Each spring, the House of Representatives and the Congressional Institute sponsor a nationwide competition as an opportunity for high school students to showcase their talents. Students from Clay, Duval, and Nassau counties submitted their artwork for the competition, and local artistic professionals judged the pieces.
The winning artwork will be displayed for one year in the Cannon Tunnel at the U.S. Capitol Building.
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Original text here: https://bean.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-bean-announces-2026-congressional-art-competition-winners-floridas
Committee Cliff Notes: Weekly Preview - Week of April 13, 2026
WASHINGTON, April 13 -- House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, R-Louisiana, issued the following news release:
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Committee Cliff Notes: Weekly Preview - Week of April 13, 2026
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Here's what to watch for from House Republican committees during the week:
Agriculture
On Thursday, April 16, the Committee on Agriculture will hold a full committee hearing called "For the Purpose of Receiving Testimony from the Honorable Michael S. Selig, Chairman, U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission."
Appropriations
On Wednesday, April 15, the Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development and Related
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, April 13 -- House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, R-Louisiana, issued the following news release:
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Committee Cliff Notes: Weekly Preview - Week of April 13, 2026
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Here's what to watch for from House Republican committees during the week:
Agriculture
On Thursday, April 16, the Committee on Agriculture will hold a full committee hearing called "For the Purpose of Receiving Testimony from the Honorable Michael S. Selig, Chairman, U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission."
Appropriations
On Wednesday, April 15, the Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development and RelatedAgencies will hold a budget hearing called "Department of Energy."
On Thursday, April 16, the Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies will hold a budget hearing called "Army Corps of Engineers and Bureau of Reclamation."
On Thursday, April 16, the Subcommittee on Homeland Security will hold a budget hearing called "Department of Homeland Security: CBP, ICE, and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services."
On Thursday, April 16, the Subcommittee on Defense will hold a budget hearing called "The United States Army."
On Thursday, April 16, the Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies will hold a budget hearing called "Department of Agriculture."
On Thursday, April 16, the Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies will hold a budget hearing called "The Office of the United States Trade Representative."
On Thursday, April 16, the Subcommittee on Homeland Security will hold a budget hearing called "Department of Homeland Security: CISA, TSA, U.S. Coast Guard, U.S. Secret Service, and FEMA."
On Thursday, April 16, the Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies will hold a budget hearing called "Department of Health and Human Services."
On Thursday, April 16, the Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies will hold a budget hearing called "United States Forest Service."
On Friday, April 17, the Subcommittee on Defense will hold a budget hearing called "National Guard and Reserve Forces."
Armed Services
On Wednesday, April 15, the Committee on Armed Services will hold a hearing called "Member Day."
On Wednesday, April 15, the Subcommittee on Strategic Forces will hold a hearing called "FY27 Missile Defense & Missile Defeat Programs and Activities."
On Wednesday, April 15, the Subcommittee on Readiness will hold a hearing called "Military Readiness for Fiscal Year 2027."
On Thursday, April 16, the Subcommittee on Military Personnel will hold a hearing called "Military Department Personnel Chiefs: Personnel Posture."
On Thursday, April 16, the Subcommittee on Intelligence and Special Operations will hold a hearing called "Defense Intelligence Enterprise - Challenges, Priorities, and Resourcing for Fiscal Year 2027."
On Friday, April 17, the Subcommittee on Cyber, Information Technologies, and Innovation will hold a hearing called "Science, Technology, and Innovation Posture of the Department of Defense."
Budget
On Wednesday, April 15, the Committee on the Budget will hold a full committee hearing called "The President's Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Request."
Education & Workforce
On Wednesday, April 15, the Subcommittee on Workforce Protections will hold a hearing called "Building an AI-Ready America: Understanding AI's Economic Impact on Workers and Employers."
On Thursday, April 16, the Subcommittee on Health, Employment, Labor, and Pensions will hold a hearing called "Examining the Policies and Priorities of the Employee Benefits Security Administration."
On Friday, April 17, the Committee on Education & Workforce will hold a hearing called "Examining the Policies and Priorities of the Department of Health and Human Services."
Energy & Commerce
On Wednesday, April 15, the Subcommittee on Health will hold a hearing called "Healthier America: Legislative Proposals to Improve Public Health."
On Wednesday, April 15, the Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade will hold a hearing called "Computing Power and Competition: Examining the Semiconductor Ecosystem."
On Thursday, April 16, the Subcommittee on Energy will hold a hearing called "The Fiscal Year 2027 Department of Energy Budget."
Financial Services
On Wednesday, April 15, the Subcommittee on Capital Markets will hold a hearing called "Safeguarding Main Street: Combatting Fraud and Exploitation in Our Capital Markets."
On Thursday, April 16, the Subcommittee on Financial Institutions will hold a hearing called "Promoting Access to Credit for Everyday Americans."
Foreign Affairs
On Wednesday, April 15, the East Asia and Pacific Subcommittee will hold a hearing called "Helping American Businesses Win Abroad: Strengthening U.S. Commercial Diplomacy."
On Thursday, April 16, the Western Hemisphere Subcommittee will hold a hearing called "Latin America After the Fall of Maduro."
House Administration
On Thursday, April 16, the Committee on House Administration will hold a full committee hearing called "Oversight with Secretaries of State: List Maintenance and Eligibility Verification."
House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence
On Thursday, April 16, the Subcommittee on Defense Intelligence and Overhead Architecture will hold a closed hearing called "Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Request for the National Reconnaissance Office, the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency, and the United States Space Force."
Judiciary
On Wednesday, April 15, the Subcommittee on Crime and Federal Government Surveillance will hold a hearing called "Restricted Rights: Second Amendment Under Fire."
On Thursday, April 16, the Subcommittee on Oversight will hold a hearing called "The Human Toll of Sanctuary Policies: Stories from Victims and Families."
Natural Resources
On Thursday, April 16, the Subcommittee on Water, Wildlife and Fisheries will hold a legislative hearing on the following bills:
* H.R. 4219, the National Wildlife Refuge System Invasive Species Strike Team Act of 2025 (Case)
* H.R. 6251, To amend the Marine Mammal Protection Act of 1972 to allow importation of polar bear trophies taken in sport hunts in Canada before the date the polar bear was determined to be a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (Begich)
* H.R. 7288, the Western South Dakota Water Supply Project Feasibility Study Act (Johnson)
* H.R. 8195, the Responsible Cormorant Management and Control Act of 2026 (Walberg)
Oversight and Government Reform
On Wednesday, April 15, the Subcommittee on Government Operations will hold a hearing called "Fraud Prevention: Understanding Fraud in Federally Funded Programs Run by the States."
On Wednesday, April 15, the Subcommittee on Delivering on Government Efficiency will hold a hearing called "The IRS Under Audit: A Review of Operations at the Nation's Tax Collector."
On Thursday, April 16, the Subcommittee on Economic Growth, Energy Policy, and Regulatory Affairs and the Subcommittee on Military and Foreign Affairs will hold a joint hearing called "Artificial Intelligence and American Power: Leadership, Security, and Prosperity."
Rules
On Tuesday, April 14, the Committee on Rules will meet on the following measure:
* H.R. 6387, the FIRE Act (Evans)
* H.R. 6398, the RED Tape Act (Joyce)
* H.R. 6409, the FENCES Act (Pfluger)
* H. Res. 1156, Expressing support for tax policies that support working families (Kelly)
* H.R. 8035, To amend the FISA Amendments Act of 2008 to extend the authorities of title VII of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of 1978 through October 20, 2027, and for other purposes (Crawford)
Science, Space, and Technology
On Wednesday, April 15, the Subcommittee on Investigations and Oversight will hold a hearing called "The State of Scientific Publishing: Assessing Trends, Emerging Issues, and Policy Considerations."
On Thursday, April 16, the Subcommittee on Energy will hold a hearing called "Subsurface Science and Technology: American Energy and Mineral Dominance."
Select Committee on China
On Thursday, April 16, the Select Committee on the Strategic Competition Between the United States and the Chinese Communist Party will hold a hearing called "China's Campaign to Steal America's AI Edge."
Small Business
On Wednesday, April 15, the Committee on Small Business will hold a full committee hearing called "Lower Taxes, Stronger Main Street: The Benefits of the Working Families Tax Cuts."
Veterans Affairs
On Wednesday, April 15, the Committee on Veterans' Affairs will hold a full committee hearing called "Faster Decisions, Stronger Outcomes: VA's Work to Streamline the Disability Claims Backlog."
On Wednesday, April 15, the Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations will hold a markup on the following bills:
* H.R. 7319, the VA Bonus and Relocation Recovery Act (Self)
* H.R. 7950, To amend title 38, United States Code, to establish the Office of Congressional and Legislative Affairs in the Department of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes (Self)
* H.R. 7683, the VA Fiscal Management Modernization Act (Bergman)
* H.R. 8041, To establish an entitlement to a supplemental period of unpaid parental leave for employees of the Department of Veterans Affairs (Bynum)
* H.R. 8057, To amend title 38, United States Code, to modify the rate of pay for care or services provided under the Community Care Program of the Department of Veterans Affairs based on the location at which such care or services were provided, and for other purposes (Miller-Meeks)
* H.R. 8052, the Veterans Infection Prevention Act (Kiggans)
* H.R. 8010, the VA Police Recruitment and Retention Act of 2026 (Kennedy)
* H.R. 7280, the Veteran DATA Act (Budzinski)
* H.R. 6654, the VAMOSA Act of 2025 (Mace)
* H.R. 8043, the Vets CLEAR Act (Ciscomani)
On Thursday, April 16, the Subcommittee on Economic Opportunity will hold an oversight hearing called "Bounce Houses, Drones, and Massage Chairs: A Review of VA's Purchase History in the Veteran Readiness and Employment Program."
On Thursday, April 16, the Subcommittee on Health will hold a markup on the following bills:
* H.R. 2283, the Recognizing Community Organizations for Veteran Engagement and Recovery Act (Bost)
* H.R. 6993, the BEACON Act of 2026 (Bergman)
* H.R. 6652, the U.S. Vets of the FAS Act (King-Hinds)
* H.R. 6444, the Blast Overpressure Research and Mitigation Task Force Act (Jackson)
* H.R. 5999, To amend title 38, United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to furnish an opioid antagonist to a veteran without requiring a prescription or copayment (Conaway)
* H.R. 6848, the Whole Health for Veterans Act (Deluzio)
* H.R. 6001, the Veterans with ALS Reporting Act (Crow)
Ways and Means
On Tuesday, April 14, the Subcommittee on Health will hold a field hearing called "Health Subcommittee Field Hearing on Modernized Health Care in Practice: Empowering Americans to Live Healthier Lives."
On Thursday, April 16, the Committee on Ways and Means will hold a full committee hearing called "Full Committee Hearing with Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr."
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Original text here: https://www.majorityleader.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=5911
Bynum Requests Over $36 Million for Oregon
WASHINGTON, April 13 -- Rep. Janelle Bynum, D-Oregon, issued the following news release:
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Bynum Requests Over $36 Million for Oregon
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Today, Congresswoman Janelle Bynum (OR-05) announced 20 Community Project Funding requests for Oregon's 5th district for Fiscal Year 2027. The projects, which total over $36 million, span the entire district and include investments in clean drinking water, infrastructure, public safety, child care, and workforce development. Over $10 million of the funding would go to Central Oregon.
"When there's money on the table for Oregon, I'm always first in line,
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, April 13 -- Rep. Janelle Bynum, D-Oregon, issued the following news release:
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Bynum Requests Over $36 Million for Oregon
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Today, Congresswoman Janelle Bynum (OR-05) announced 20 Community Project Funding requests for Oregon's 5th district for Fiscal Year 2027. The projects, which total over $36 million, span the entire district and include investments in clean drinking water, infrastructure, public safety, child care, and workforce development. Over $10 million of the funding would go to Central Oregon.
"When there's money on the table for Oregon, I'm always first in line,elbows out, bringing home every dollar available," said. Rep. Bynum. "These projects are a vital step in making Oregon a better place to live. The funding will open doors to affordable child care, good-paying jobs, infrastructure upgrades, and better public safety resources. This money would make a real difference for our communities, and I will continue to fight for this funding in Congress."
In January, in an effort to confront the rising economic pressures on young Americans, Rep. Bynum launched her signature "K-30" agenda - a platform focused on supporting young Americans by improving access to education, housing, and the job market. Funding these projects is a continuation of Rep. Bynum's work to support the next generation by making Oregon more affordable and by increasing access to opportunity.
Projects
$1,501,408 for Expanding Manufacturing Technology Workforce Training in Central Oregon
* Recipient Name: Central Oregon Community College
* Project Purpose: Funds will be used to purchase advanced manufacturing equipment as part of Central Oregon Community College's Manufacturing Technology labs in Redmond, Oregon.
$1,536,242 for the Redmond Childcare and Family Services Hub
* Recipient Name: Central Oregon Regional Housing Authority, dba Housing Works
* Project Purpose: Funds will be used to construct a childcare and family services center in Redmond, Oregon.
$2,000,000 for the Cox Creek Sewer Interceptor Replacement
* Recipient Name: City of Albany
* Project Purpose: Funds will be used to replace undersized sewer pipe with larger pipe to minimize surcharging that leads to sanitary sewer overflows and facilitate downstream development.
$3,500,000 for the Canby Transit Operations Center
* Recipient Name: City of Canby
* Project Purpose: Funds will be used to construct the Canby Transit Campus, creating a permanent Transit Operations Center that consolidates offices, dispatch, and operational functions on a public site.
$2,000,000 for the City of Lebanon's Wastewater Treatment Plant Improvement Project
* Recipient Name: City of Lebanon
* Project Purpose : Funds will be used to purchase equipment to improve the efficiency and reliability of the City of Lebanon's wastewater treatment operations.
$450,000 for Wastewater Filter and UV Cover
* Recipient Name: City of Molalla
* Project Purpose: Funds will be used to plan, permit, and construct a protective cover over a wastewater treatment area to safeguard equipment and improve operational performance.
$1,475,040 for the City of Mt. Angel's Water Reservoir Replacement Project
* Recipient Name: City of Mt. Angel
* Project Purpose: Funds will be used to replace an aging water reservoir to ensure adequate fire flows.
$2,000,000 for the City of Redmond's Helmholtz Water Transmission Main
* Recipient Name: City of Redmond
* Project Purpose: Funds will be used to complete a water transmission main to increase hydraulic capacity and ensure adequate fire flows.
$2,500,000 for the City of Silverton's Edison Water Tank
* Recipient Name: City of Silverton
* Project Purpose: Funds will be used to construct a water storage tank and pump to provide backup drinking water and improve system reliability for the City of Silverton.
$2,000,000 for the City of Stayton's Emergency Drinking Water Intertie
* Recipient Name: City of Stayton
* Project Purpose: Funds will be used to construct an emergency drinking water intertie to improve connectivity.
$900,000 for the Sublimity City Hall Improvements
* Recipient Name: City of Sublimity
* Project Purpose: Funds will be used to construct a new, expanded City Hall and meeting space in the City of Sublimity.
$919,000 for the City of Sweet Home's Water Treatment Plant Emergency Power Resiliency Project
* Recipient Name: City of Sweet Home
* Project Purpose: Funds will be used to install an emergency backup generator to enhance the reliability of critical infrastructure within a municipal water system.
$1,250,000 for the City of West Linn's Stormwater Infrastructure Improvements
* Recipient Name: City of West Linn
* Project Purpose: Funds will be used to install a new storm main line and other improvements to enhance drainage capacity and stormwater management in the City of West Linn.
$3,000,000 for Clackamas County's Middle Clackamas Interceptor Project
* Recipient Name: Clackamas County
* Project Purpose: Funds will be used to construct the Middle Clackamas Interceptor.
$412,000 for Colton Fire Engine Replacement
* Recipient Name: Colton Rural Fire District
* Project Purpose: Funds would be used to replace an aging Fire Apparatus and associated equipment.
$2,298,673 for the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office Equipment Acquisition
* Recipient Name: Deschutes County Sheriff's Office
* Project Purpose: $2,298,673 for the Deschutes County Sheriff's Office to purchase new body-worn cameras, supporting hardware and software, and a taser package to enhance officer accountability and community safety.
$2,000,000 for the Marion County Sheriff's Office Incident Command Center
* Recipient Name: Marion County Sheriff's Office
* Project Purpose: $2,000,000 for the Marion County Sheriff's Office to purchase an incident command center to improve emergency coordination and enhance regional resiliency across the county.
$2,387,307 for the Redmond Fire District Aerial Fire Truck and Equipment Acquisition
* Recipient Name: Redmond Fire and Rescue
* Project Purpose: Funds will be used to replace an Aerial Fire Truck and associated equipment.
$4,500,000 for Rivergrove Water District's Asbestos Cement Pipe Replacement
* Recipient Name: Rivergrove Water District
* Project Purpose: Funds will be used to replace aging asbestos cement water pipes.
$309,750 Sisters-Camp Sherman Fire District Wildfire Resiliency Program Expansion
* Recipient Name: Sisters-Camp Sherman Rural Fire Protection District
* Project Purpose: Funds will be used to purchase equipment and further implement a fuels reduction and community-engagement program.
***
Original text here: https://bynum.house.gov/media/press-releases/bynum-requests-over-36-million-oregon
Barrett, Agriculture Secretary Rollins Meet with Lansing Area Farmers and Livingston County Emergency Dispatchers
WASHINGTON, April 13 -- Rep. Tom Barrett, R-Michigan, issued the following news release:
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Barrett, Agriculture Secretary Rollins Meet with Lansing Area Farmers and Livingston County Emergency Dispatchers
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Lansing, Mich. - Today, Congressman Tom Barrett (MI-07) hosted U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins in mid-Michigan to meet with local farmers who are benefiting from both the tax relief and farm provisions Barrett and the president delivered through the Working Families Tax Cuts.
The congressman and secretary participated in a roundtable meeting with local farmers, toured
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, April 13 -- Rep. Tom Barrett, R-Michigan, issued the following news release:
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Barrett, Agriculture Secretary Rollins Meet with Lansing Area Farmers and Livingston County Emergency Dispatchers
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Lansing, Mich. - Today, Congressman Tom Barrett (MI-07) hosted U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins in mid-Michigan to meet with local farmers who are benefiting from both the tax relief and farm provisions Barrett and the president delivered through the Working Families Tax Cuts.
The congressman and secretary participated in a roundtable meeting with local farmers, touredthe MSU Dairy Cattle Teaching and Research Center, and visited Livingston County 911 Central Dispatch where Barrett recently secured federal U.S. Department of Agriculture funding to upgrade their dispatch computer system.
"Michigan's farmers deserve a federal government that understands their challenges and ensures they can keep feeding our communities," said Barrett. "The Working Families Tax Cuts are putting more money back in the pockets of farmers and families, and I'm grateful to Secretary Rollins for joining me to hear it directly from the people of mid-Michigan. I was also proud to welcome her to Livingston County to highlight federal funding I secured for the new computer-aided dispatch system, providing emergency dispatchers the tools they need to keep our communities safe. I'll continue fighting to bring Michiganders' tax dollars home to benefit our communities."
"The Working Families Tax Cuts provided the largest investment in American agriculture, including boosting support for America's row crop and specialty crop farmers," said U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins. "It's thanks to members of Congress like Tom Barrett that the Michigan agricultural industry and those around the country will be able to use these investments."
At the Michigan State University Dairy Research Facility, Barrett and Rollins hosted a roundtable with farmers from across mid-Michigan to discuss the challenges they face and how the tax relief and farm provisions in the Working Family Tax Cuts are essential to their operations. After the roundtable, the officials toured the Dairy Research Facility.The officials then toured Livingston County 911 Central Dispatch, where Barrett recently secured a $495,000 federal investment for the county to purchase a new computer-aided dispatch (CAD) system. This new streamlined system will improve call intake, location verification, dispatching the appropriate emergency response, record management, and more."Modernizing our computer-aided dispatch system will enable our team of professionals to efficiently field emergency calls and deploy first responders and law enforcement throughout Livingston County," said Livingston County 911 Director Kecia Williams. "Congressman Barrett's work to secure federal funding made this much-needed technological upgrade possible. We are grateful to Congressman Barrett and Secretary Rollins for visiting 911 Central Dispatch and supporting our mission to keep Livingston County residents safe."
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Original text here: https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases/barrett-agriculture-secretary-rollins-meet-lansing-area-farmers-and-livingston
As Trump Administration Weighs Resuming Explosive Nuclear Testing, Rosen Visits the Nevada National Security Site to Observe Nuclear Stockpile Certification
WASHINGTON, April 13 -- Sen. Jacky Rosen, D-Nevada, issued the following news release:
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As Trump Administration Weighs Resuming Explosive Nuclear Testing, Rosen Visits the Nevada National Security Site to Observe Nuclear Stockpile Certification
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Senator Rosen Has Been An Outspoken Leader Against Resuming Explosive Nuclear Testing In Nevada
LAS VEGAS, NV - Last week, U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen visited the Nevada National Security Site (NNSS) to see firsthand the work being done to certify the nation's nuclear stockpile without conducting explosive testing. The NNSS and its related facilities
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, April 13 -- Sen. Jacky Rosen, D-Nevada, issued the following news release:
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As Trump Administration Weighs Resuming Explosive Nuclear Testing, Rosen Visits the Nevada National Security Site to Observe Nuclear Stockpile Certification
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Senator Rosen Has Been An Outspoken Leader Against Resuming Explosive Nuclear Testing In Nevada
LAS VEGAS, NV - Last week, U.S. Senator Jacky Rosen visited the Nevada National Security Site (NNSS) to see firsthand the work being done to certify the nation's nuclear stockpile without conducting explosive testing. The NNSS and its related facilitiesplay a crucial role in ensuring the safety, reliability, and effectiveness of the nation's nuclear stockpile as the only place in the country where subcritical experiments are conducted so that we never again have to detonate a nuclear weapon. Senator Rosen toured the Site's underground laboratory, which is undergoing a major mining and construction project that will host two of the most advanced radiographic machines in the world, which will provide greater certainty and data about the performance of the stockpile. This is far better data, experts say, than the information that could be obtained if the U.S. were to break the current testing moratorium and conduct an explosive nuclear test. In Senate Armed Services Committee hearings, Senator Rosen has received commitments from every nominee to lead the National Nuclear Security Administration and the commander of U.S. Strategic Command, that there is not a need to resume explosive nuclear testing and that they would not recommend a resumption.
"Nevada knows firsthand the terrible effects from explosive nuclear testing. When it comes to the radiation unleashed by these tests, what happens in Nevada won't just stay in Nevada - the entire country will feel the harm from these explosives tests," said Senator Rosen. "That's why the Nevada National Security Site is a facility of national importance as the only place in the country where state-of-the-art, science-based subcritical experiments verify the military effectiveness of our nuclear stockpile without needing to perform explosive tests. I've had the pleasure of visiting NNSS again and seeing firsthand how they perform their work to keep our nation safe, without resuming explosive nuclear testing. I will continue fighting in the Senate against any proposed measures that would expose our state to harmful radiation and hurt our economy."
Senator Rosen has been outspoken against a resumption of explosive nuclear testing in Nevada. She has helped introduce legislation to stop President Trump's reckless plans to resume explosive nuclear testing and led the Nevada delegation in sending a letter to the Trump Administration expressing outrage over the President's directive to resume explosive nuclear testing. In a recent committee hearing, Senator Rosen pushed back against a Trump Administration official who left the door open for restarting explosive nuclear testing. Senator Rosen also helped pass a bipartisan bill to support Nevadans harmed by radiation from Cold War nuclear testing.
The NNSS was the primary location for U.S. nuclear testing from 1951 to 1992, where 100 atmospheric and 828 underground tests were conducted. After President George H.W. Bush signed the testing moratorium in 1992, the U.S. developed the Stockpile Stewardship Program and science-based subcritical experiments to certify the reliability, safety, and effectiveness of our nuclear stockpile without the need for explosive testing. For decades, the directors of the national laboratories, commanders of U.S. Strategic Command, and the Secretaries of Defense and Energy - including during both terms of the Trump Administration - have annually certified the military effectiveness of our stockpile, and confirmed that it does not require a resumption of explosive testing.
***
Original text here: https://www.rosen.senate.gov/2026/04/13/as-trump-administration-weighs-resuming-explosive-nuclear-testing-rosen-visits-the-nevada-national-security-site-to-observe-nuclear-stockpile-certification/
Artificial Intelligence Acquisitions: Agencies Should Collect and Apply Lessons Learned to Improve Future Procurements
WASHINGTON, April 13 (TNSLrpt) -- The Government Accountability Office issued the following report:
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Artificial Intelligence Acquisitions: Agencies Should Collect and Apply Lessons Learned to Improve Future Procurements
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Fast Facts
Federal agencies use AI for facial recognition at airports, analyzing veterans' benefit claims, and more. They often work with private sector companies to acquire and support AI.
We talked with many agency officials about challenges acquiring AI. For example, some said there was difficulty accessing AI technical experts, like data scientists, to evaluate
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, April 13 (TNSLrpt) -- The Government Accountability Office issued the following report:
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Artificial Intelligence Acquisitions: Agencies Should Collect and Apply Lessons Learned to Improve Future Procurements
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Fast Facts
Federal agencies use AI for facial recognition at airports, analyzing veterans' benefit claims, and more. They often work with private sector companies to acquire and support AI.
We talked with many agency officials about challenges acquiring AI. For example, some said there was difficulty accessing AI technical experts, like data scientists, to evaluatecontractor proposals. Officials also said it was hard to understand AI-related costs.
But the agencies we spoke with didn't regularly collect and share lessons learned from acquiring AI. Doing so could help them better prepare for using AI in the future.
Our recommendations address this issue.
A person with their hands facing up, with several icons and infographic elements floating over the hands with the letters A and I in the middle of the image inside an outlined box.
Highlights
What GAO Found
Federal agencies reportedly more than doubled their use of artificial intelligence (AI) from 2023 to 2024, and they used a range of approaches to acquire additional AI capabilities through fiscal year 2025. GAO identified trade-offs facing agencies as they acquire AI, and some associated challenges and benefits. For example:
* Agency-directed vs. vendor-driven approaches. Some agencies awarded new contracts in pursuit of AI solutions. In other instances, industry introduced capabilities to agencies in the absence of specific AI requirements.
* Contracts vs. other agreements. Agencies used different types of contracts to acquire AI capabilities. In some instances, agencies also leveraged other agreements not governed by federal acquisition regulations to develop more advanced AI capabilities.
* AI as a service vs. a product. Some agencies bought AI as a product, such as software. However, agency officials told GAO they acquire AI as a service where the vendor provides AI capabilities and outputs on an ongoing basis.
GAO identified several strategic and programmatic challenges agencies faced when acquiring AI capabilities.
Key Procurement Challenge Areas Identified by Selected Agencies
In April 2025, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) issued guidance to help agencies acquire AI responsibly. OMB directed agencies to update their AI policies to comply with OMB's requirements. GAO previously reported that agency-level implementation is critical to achieving acquisition goals directed by OMB ( GAO-25-107398 ).
In this review, GAO found the selected agencies were not yet systematically collecting lessons learned from AI acquisitions-a necessary first step to share knowledge about AI acquisitions in accordance with OMB guidance. OMB has stated that agencies should share knowledge about AI acquisitions through a web-based repository developed by the General Services Administration (GSA). However, officials at four agencies-GSA and the Departments of Defense (DOD), Homeland Security (DHS), and Veterans Affairs (VA)-told GAO they were not prepared to do so because their agency policies did not require them to collect lessons learned. As a result, the agencies are missing opportunities to identify and apply best practices-such as contract terms related to data rights or testing requirements-or to avoid mistakes as agencies increasingly acquire AI.
Why GAO Did This Study
Industry leads AI development, reportedly investing over $250 billion in 2024 alone. Federal agencies are finding many opportunities to use AI to execute their missions. They already use AI for veteran services, enhancements to weapon systems, and administrative tasks. To realize the benefits of AI, federal agencies often contract with companies to acquire solutions. Members of Congress and others have raised concerns about federal AI acquisitions. These concerns include long-standing acquisition issues, such as fostering competition, as well as issues specific to AI, such as training AI models on flawed data.
GAO was asked to review federal AI acquisitions. This report addresses (1) acquisition approaches agencies are using to adopt AI, (2) types of challenges agencies face when acquiring AI capabilities, and (3) the extent to which selected agencies are prepared to share knowledge related to acquiring AI solutions.
GAO conducted in-depth reviews of 13 AI acquisitions at four federal agencies-DOD, DHS, GSA, and VA. GAO selected these agencies based on maturity of AI acquisition efforts and approaches to acquiring AI capabilities, among other factors. GAO reviewed the agencies' relevant policies, and interviewed senior AI acquisition leaders at the selected agencies. GAO also analyzed OMB guidance.
Recommendations
GAO is making a total of four recommendations. Specifically, GAO is recommending that DOD, DHS, GSA, and VA update their policies to require officials to systematically collect lessons learned from AI acquisitions to enable sharing and application by other agencies. The agencies concurred with all of the recommendations.
Recommendations for Executive Action
Agency Affected Recommendation Status
Department of Defense The Secretary of Defense should ensure that the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment updates the department's policies to establish processes and require officials to systematically collect lessons learned from AI acquisitions-including best practices involving contract clauses-and submit them to the GSA-managed repository to enable sharing and application by other agencies. (Recommendation 1)
Open Actions to satisfy the intent of the recommendation have not been taken or are being planned.
When we confirm what actions the agency has taken in response to this recommendation, we will provide updated information.
Department of Homeland Security The Secretary of Homeland Security should ensure that the Under Secretary for Management updates the department's policies to establish processes and require officials to systematically collect lessons learned from AI acquisitions-including best practices involving contract clauses-and submit them to the GSA-managed repository to enable sharing and application by other agencies. (Recommendation 2)
Open Actions to satisfy the intent of the recommendation have not been taken or are being planned.
When we confirm what actions the agency has taken in response to this recommendation, we will provide updated information.
General Services Administration The Administrator of the General Services Administration should ensure that the Chief Acquisition Officer updates the agency's policies to establish processes and require officials to systematically collect lessons learned from AI acquisitions-including best practices involving contract clauses-and submit them to the GSA-managed repository to enable sharing and application by other agencies. (Recommendation 3)
Open Actions to satisfy the intent of the recommendation have not been taken or are being planned.
When we confirm what actions the agency has taken in response to this recommendation, we will provide updated information.
Department of Veterans Affairs The Secretary of Veterans Affairs should ensure that the Principal Executive Director of the Office of Acquisition, Logistics, and Construction updates the department's policies to establish processes and require officials to systematically collect lessons learned from AI acquisitions-including best practices involving contract clauses-and submit them to the GSA-managed repository to enable sharing and application by other agencies. (Recommendation 4)
Open Actions to satisfy the intent of the recommendation have not been taken or are being planned.
When we confirm what actions the agency has taken in response to this recommendation, we will provide updated information.
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Original text here: https://www.gao.gov/products/gao-26-107859
Amazon Claims to Warren, Hank Johnson "No Improper" Bids in Melania Movie, Despite Reportedly Paying Three Times as Much as Next Highest Bidder
WASHINGTON, April 13 -- Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Massachusetts, issued the following news release:
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Amazon Claims to Warren, Hank Johnson "No Improper" Bids in Melania Movie, Despite Reportedly Paying Three Times as Much as Next Highest Bidder
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Warren: "Amazon's response reeks of desperation to please Donald Trump...This looks like bribery in plain sight. "
Text of Amazon Response (PDF)
Washington, D.C. - In a new response to Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Representative Hank Johnson (D-Ga.), Amazon claimed that there was "no improper" activity in its bid for the new Melania
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, April 13 -- Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Massachusetts, issued the following news release:
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Amazon Claims to Warren, Hank Johnson "No Improper" Bids in Melania Movie, Despite Reportedly Paying Three Times as Much as Next Highest Bidder
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Warren: "Amazon's response reeks of desperation to please Donald Trump...This looks like bribery in plain sight. "
Text of Amazon Response (PDF)
Washington, D.C. - In a new response to Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Representative Hank Johnson (D-Ga.), Amazon claimed that there was "no improper" activity in its bid for the new Melaniadocumentary despite what appears to be a corrupt pay-to-play arrangement with the Trump administration. Last month, the lawmakers opened an investigation into Amazon's investment in the Melania film and questioned whether it was used to secure favorable treatment from the Trump administration on antitrust suits, potential tariff exemptions, foreign trade deals, federal contracts, and tax cuts.
The company refused to explain its massive overpayment for the film's rights, insisting that it followed a "thorough and competitive bidding process" despite reportedly paying more than three times as the next closest bidder.
Amazon also said that its decision to license the film was "based on the film and series itself -the access, the story, and its cultural and historical relevance," again providing no business justification for the investment.
In reaction to Amazon's insufficient response, Senator Warren released the following statement :
"Amazon's response reeks of desperation to please Donald Trump. If there's nothing corrupt about this deal and the bidding process was truly "competitive", why won't Amazon explain why it reportedly paid three times as much as the next highest bidder? The logical explanation is that Amazon is trying to buy the President's favor by dumping millions into the Trump family's pockets. This looks like bribery in plain sight, and Amazon must give Congress -and the American people -answers now."
Representative Hank Johnson (D-Ga.) also released the following statement :
"When we saw the oligarchs and tech bros gather in front-row seats at Trump's second inauguration - some of whom gave him millions for his re-election campaign - it raised the specter that the rich and powerful were going to wield dangerous levels of power and influence on the nation through their largess to this transactional and corrupt president. Amazon's 'nothing-to-see-here' response makes this fear even more of a reality. If there were truly nothing to see, then Amazon would have answered these basic questions."
Amazon reportedly invested at least $75 million in the documentary -with reports indicating that about $28 million of that will go directly to Melania Trump. To date, the film has only grossed around $16 million, raising questions about whether Amazon ever planned to break even on the film.
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Original text here: https://www.warren.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/amazon-claims-to-warren-hank-johnson-no-improper-bids-in-melania-movie-despite-reportedly-paying-three-times-as-much-as-next-highest-bidder
Amata Welcomes HHS Newborn Hearing Grant
WASHINGTON, April 13 (Rep.) -- Del. Aumua Amata Radewagen, R-American Samoa, issued the following news release:
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Amata Welcomes HHS Newborn Hearing Grant
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Washington, D.C. - Congresswoman Uifa'atali Amata is pleased to welcome notice of a health services grant for universal newborn hearing screening and intervention.Dr. Anaise Uso in Congresswoman Amata's office just last month in a health delegation to DC with Dr. Aifili John Tufa, Annie Noa, Emma Reid-Alo, Langahelotu Vivao, Francis Vivao, and some of the group's family members
This is a discretionary continuation grant of $78,537
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, April 13 (Rep.) -- Del. Aumua Amata Radewagen, R-American Samoa, issued the following news release:
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Amata Welcomes HHS Newborn Hearing Grant
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Washington, D.C. - Congresswoman Uifa'atali Amata is pleased to welcome notice of a health services grant for universal newborn hearing screening and intervention.Dr. Anaise Uso in Congresswoman Amata's office just last month in a health delegation to DC with Dr. Aifili John Tufa, Annie Noa, Emma Reid-Alo, Langahelotu Vivao, Francis Vivao, and some of the group's family members
This is a discretionary continuation grant of $78,537for the American Samoa Department of Health (ASDOH) from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) through the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA).
"Thank you especially to Saposapoaluga Tuiolosega for the work leading to this grant, and everyone who helps ensure this essential program is active and available," said Congresswoman Amata. "This grant funds ongoing efforts to make sure our people's newborns are healthy and hearing properly right from the start, or get the treatment they need immediately. Thank you to all our medical professionals providing all the various kinds of services that are needed throughout our islands."
Maternal Child Health Information Systems Grant
Congresswoman Amata was also notified of a $2,096 discretionary health services grant, also from HRSA, for Maternal Child Health Programs Information Systems, under the MCHB State Systems Development Initiative program.
"Thank you to Dr. Anaise Uso for her work safeguarding the well-being of our mothers and young children. Every part of these programs is important and grants like these keep our systems up to date," concluded Amata.
ASDOH is led by Director Dr. Saipale Fuimaono under the administration of Governor Pulaali'i Nikolao Pula and Lt. Gov. Pulumataala Ae Ae, Jr., and in Washington, D.C., HHS is led by Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., and HRSA by Administrator Thomas Engels.
Issues : Healthcare
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Original text here: https://radewagen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/amata-welcomes-hhs-newborn-hearing-grant
Alford Welcomes SBA Administrator Loeffler to KC, Celebrates Historic Success of Working Families Tax Cuts
WASHINGTON, April 13 -- Rep. Mark Alford, R-Missouri, issued the following news release:
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Alford Welcomes SBA Administrator Loeffler to KC, Celebrates Historic Success of Working Families Tax Cuts
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Today, Congressman Mark Alford (MO-04) welcomed Small Business Administration (SBA) Administrator Kelly Loeffler to Kansas City, MO to tout the historic success of Republicans' Working Families Tax Cuts at Cupini's Italian restaurant.
"I was proud to welcome Administrator Loeffler to Kansas City to show her the positive impact our Working Families Tax Cuts are having right here in our community,"
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, April 13 -- Rep. Mark Alford, R-Missouri, issued the following news release:
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Alford Welcomes SBA Administrator Loeffler to KC, Celebrates Historic Success of Working Families Tax Cuts
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Today, Congressman Mark Alford (MO-04) welcomed Small Business Administration (SBA) Administrator Kelly Loeffler to Kansas City, MO to tout the historic success of Republicans' Working Families Tax Cuts at Cupini's Italian restaurant.
"I was proud to welcome Administrator Loeffler to Kansas City to show her the positive impact our Working Families Tax Cuts are having right here in our community,"said Congressman Alford. "From no tax on tips to relief for job creators, the Trump Tax Cuts are putting more money back into the pockets of small business owners and employees alike, just like those at Cupini's. This is what Main Street success looks like, and it's thanks to the Working Families Tax Cuts. It's not often we have a member of the President's Cabinet in KC, and I was proud to host this historic visit.
Watch a video recap of Administrator Loeffler and Congressman Alford's visit with owner Franco Cupini here or by clicking the image above.
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Original text here: https://alford.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1541
