Congress
U.S. Congress
Here's a look at documents from all members of the U.S. House and the U.S. Senate
Featured Stories
Cantwell Demands Accountability for Prediction Markets Offering Sports Betting
WASHINGTON, May 21 -- Sen. Maria Cantwell, D-Washington, ranking member of the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee, issued the following news release on May 20, 2026:* * *
Cantwell Demands Accountability for Prediction Markets Offering Sports Betting
Senator calls out prediction markets for threatening tribal communities and exposing children to predatory practices
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U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation, pressed witnesses at a Senate Commerce subcommittee hearing on the unchecked expansion of ... Show Full Article WASHINGTON, May 21 -- Sen. Maria Cantwell, D-Washington, ranking member of the Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee, issued the following news release on May 20, 2026: * * * Cantwell Demands Accountability for Prediction Markets Offering Sports Betting Senator calls out prediction markets for threatening tribal communities and exposing children to predatory practices * U.S. Senator Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation, pressed witnesses at a Senate Commerce subcommittee hearing on the unchecked expansion ofprediction markets into sports gambling -- demanding answers about how these platforms are undermining tribal sovereignty, threatening the economic vitality of Indian Country and exposing vulnerable individuals, including minors, to predatory gambling practices. Senator Cantwell drew a parallel to the explosion of subprime mortgage lending leading up to the 2008 financial crisis, warning that the failure to act to rein in prediction markets risks repeating the same disastrous results for millions of Americans.
"It [was] a conservative journalist who basically said, the lack of clarity is fraud," said Sen. Cantwell. "It was P.J. O'Rourke and he said 'complexity is fraud.' His point was if it's so complex and you can't understand it, then complexity is the fraud. So that's where we are today."
In 2010, Congress amended the Commodity Exchange Act to authorize the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) to prohibit prediction markets from offering contracts involving gaming or activities that violate state laws. The CFTC issued a rule in 2011 banning prediction markets from offering sports betting contracts.
"[T]he CFTC prohibited sports betting contracts for more than 15 years under this rule. But all of a sudden, starting in 2025, prediction markets began offering sports gambling contracts," said Sen. Cantwell.
"So, my state wants to know why the Indian gaming [operations] - who basically have lived by the rules in their state and lived by the rules of a regulated entity - are now all of a sudden competing with somebody that is not a regulated entity that's basically offering the same product," she continued. "If the prediction markets are allowed to keep operating unchecked does this pose an existential threat to both tribal sovereignty and to Indian Country, and what can Congress do to better protect Indian gaming?"
Bill Miller, representing the American Gaming Association, responded that prediction markets absolutely pose a direct threat to the economic opportunities tribal gaming has created, including the more than 680,000 jobs that tribal gaming supported in 2025.
"And so, yes, there's real harm here," said Mr. Miller. "Indian country is scared. They believe that gaming has been a transformational economic opportunity for some of the people that have been treated worse than almost anybody else in this country's history. Gaming has created economic vitality and an opportunity for them, and that opportunity is very much at risk because of prediction markets."
Sen. Cantwell also raised alarming new data from the 2025 Washington State Healthy Youth Survey, showing that gambling is on the rise among Washington state's children. Sen. Cantwell asked gambling addiction expert Dr. Harry Levant about the predatory tactics that prediction markets use to reach new customers as young as 18 years old, and keep them hooked.
"People are being targeted relentlessly and this discussion of prediction markets has done something that others would have predicted 'small p' impossible: that's Mr. Miller and I agreeing on an issue," responded Dr. Levant. "The prediction markets take this and [are] not only infringing upon sovereign rights [and] tribal gaming, but 18-year-olds, and they're being told it's investment. I've had six clients in my recovery group who have relapsed because they were told this is an investment. I'm not gambling, I'm making an investment. It's just so fundamentally wrong."
The number of Washingtonians seeking help for problem gambling increased dramatically in 2025, coinciding with the rise in usage of prediction markets like Kalshi. Data from the National Problem Gambling Helpline dashboardshows contacts from Washington state increased 30.0% from 2024 to 2025.
In Washington state, sports gambling is only allowed at certain tribal casinos. In March, Washington state sued Kalshi, asserting that the platform "attempts to skirt state law by branding its betting platform as a 'prediction market.'" The lawsuit argues Kalshi violates the Washington state Gambling Act and Consumer Protection Act, and would block Kalshi from operating in Washington, recover money lost by Washingtonians, and assess civil penalties.
As part of their ongoing bipartisan investigation into gambling corruption in professional sports, last year Ranking Member Cantwell and Chairman Ted Cruz (R-Texas) sent letters to the Commissioner of the National Basketball Association (NBA) and the Commissioner of Major League Baseball (MLB), following alarming indictments detailing schemes where players rigged their performance to win fraudulent bets.
"[F]ans must have confidence that games are being played fairly and honestly, so I agree with the Chairman on that," said Sen. Cantwell. "That's what makes competition great, and that is why Senator Cruz and I are conducting a bipartisan inquiry into how the leagues, the sports books, and the stakeholders are protecting the integrity of sports and teams."
A complete transcript is HERE (https://www.commerce.senate.gov/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/commerce_sports_betting_hearing_transcript.pdf).
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Original text here: https://www.commerce.senate.gov/press/dem/release/cantwell-demands-accountability-for-prediction-markets-offering-sports-betting/
Budd Leads Group of Bipartisan Senators in Introducing FARM AI Act to Expand Access to Technology for American Farmers
WASHINGTON, May 21 -- Sen. Ted Budd, R-North Carolina, issued the following news release:* * *
Budd Leads Group of Bipartisan Senators in Introducing FARM AI Act to Expand Access to Technology for American Farmers
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Washington, D.C. -U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) led a bipartisan group of his Senate colleagues, including U.S. Senators Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Jim Banks (R-Ind.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), and Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), in introducing the Fostering Agricultural Research and Modernization through Artificial Intelligence (FARM AI) Act today. The ... Show Full Article WASHINGTON, May 21 -- Sen. Ted Budd, R-North Carolina, issued the following news release: * * * Budd Leads Group of Bipartisan Senators in Introducing FARM AI Act to Expand Access to Technology for American Farmers * Washington, D.C. -U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) led a bipartisan group of his Senate colleagues, including U.S. Senators Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Jim Banks (R-Ind.), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), and Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-Del.), in introducing the Fostering Agricultural Research and Modernization through Artificial Intelligence (FARM AI) Act today. Thebill would increase capital for AI projects through U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) grants and ensure USDA programs are deployed to educate farmers on the latest AI technologies to advance American production. By investing in agricultural workforce development, this bipartisan legislation will expand access to AI in farming, enabling America's producers to compete more effectively in the global marketplace.
"AI technologies are advancing at a rapid pace, and if we fail to address the barriers of access to AI deployment in agriculture, America's producers will fall behind. Precision technologies have the potential to enhance innovation and productivity in farming and ranching, but outdated USDA programs are holding this potential back from reaching our rural communities. I am proud to be leading the bipartisan FARM AI Act to unlock the untapped potential of AI technology to advance American agriculture," said Senator Budd.
"We must ensure that America's farmers and ranchers are not left behind in utilizing AI innovations and cutting edge technologies to keep our food systems and rural economies strong. I'm proud to join my colleagues in introducing the FARM AI Act, because American agriculture must have access to AI advances to stay competitive in our increasingly global economy," said Senator Schiff.
"Nevada's farmers and ranchers work hard every day to help American families put food on the table. New artificial intelligence technology could help the agriculture industry cut costs, boost productivity, and expand U.S. competitiveness. That's why I'm proud to support bipartisan legislation to responsibly invest in this technology to help farmers and ranchers across the country," said Senator Cortez Masto.
"Artificial intelligence has real potential to transform agriculture operations, particularly with regard to precision technologies and data management. Our legislation would support the use of AI in agriculture by giving the U.S. Department of Agriculture more authority to prioritize AI in their research and extension programs," said Senator Rounds.
"Emerging technologies, like Artificial Intelligence, offer an opportunity to advance innovation across all industries, but not without access to proper resources and training. The FARM AI Act will increase investments in the agricultural industry's use of AI and ensure rural communities are empowered to successfully harness its promise," said Senator Blunt Rochester.
The FARM AI Act is supported by North Carolina State University and the North Carolina Life Sciences Organization (NCLifeSci).
"The FARM AI Act provides a crucial framework to accelerate innovation and workforce development across the agricultural sector. By increasing capital for artificial intelligence (AI) projects through USDA grants and ensuring that USDA programs are precisely tailored to include AI development, this legislation will directly empower researchers to develop and deploy cutting-edge solutions. The College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (CALS) at North Carolina State University deeply appreciates Sen. Budd's leadership in recognizing the transformative potential of AI in agriculture and his commitment to empowering land-grant universities to lead this vital frontier," said Garey Fox, Ph.D., P.E., Dean, North Carolina State University's College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.
"NCLifeSci applauds Senator Budd's introduction of the FARM AI Act. North Carolina leads the nation in both agriculture and agricultural technology, making this legislation especially relevant to our state. The bill addresses two critical gaps facing farmers: a lack of capital to adopt AI tools and a shortage of trained workers in rural communities to implement them. By directing USDA resources toward AI research, workforce development and Extension outreach, the act strengthens the U.S. food supply chain and positions American farmers to compete internationally," said Laura Gunter, President, NCLifeSci.
Read the full bill text HERE.
BACKGROUND
Farm AI Act :
* Adds AI Development as a Priority Research Area Under the USDA's Agriculture and Food Research Initiative (AFRI): Modifying the AFRI will enable more research into AI and workforce development to develop and deploy AI technologies on farms.
* Emphasizes AI as an Explicit Focus for Research Under USDA's Agriculture Advanced Research and Development Authority (AgARDA): Amending the focus of the AgARDA will further expand AI research for more complex projects.
* Ensures Extension Teaches Farmers How to Harness the Benefits of AI: Ensuring USDA Extension provides outreach and education to farmers on the adoption and responsible use of AI systems will rapidly increase the productivity and security of rural communities.
* Expands Agricultural Workforce Training to Include AI and Precision Agriculture: Expanding USDA grants and fellowships for food and agricultural sciences education to fund workforce development and technical training programs in rural communities on artificial intelligence and precision agriculture will equip the next generation of agricultural workers with the skills needed to adopt and utilize modern farming technologies.
* Nominate a Senior USDA Official to Serve as the AI in Ag Advisor: Nominating a senior official under USDA's AFRI will ensure grants and outreach programs are tailored to include AI development and implementation, along with ensuring USDA collaborates with the Department of Commerce's National Institute of Standards and Technology to establish national AI standards for the agriculture sector.
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Original text here: https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/05/21/budd-leads-group-of-bipartisan-senators-in-introducing-farm-ai-act/
Budd Leads Colleagues in Introducing Legislation to Prevent Thousands of Illegal Aliens from Escaping Mandatory Detention
WASHINGTON, May 21 -- Sen. Ted Budd, R-North Carolina, issued the following news release:* * *
Budd Leads Colleagues in Introducing Legislation to Prevent Thousands of Illegal Aliens from Escaping Mandatory Detention
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Washington, D.C. -U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) led several Senate Republican colleagues in introducing the Detention Authority Clarification Act today, which would amend the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) to make unambiguous Congress' intent that illegal aliens be subject to detention without bond pending removal from the United States. This is in response to split ... Show Full Article WASHINGTON, May 21 -- Sen. Ted Budd, R-North Carolina, issued the following news release: * * * Budd Leads Colleagues in Introducing Legislation to Prevent Thousands of Illegal Aliens from Escaping Mandatory Detention * Washington, D.C. -U.S. Senator Ted Budd (R-N.C.) led several Senate Republican colleagues in introducing the Detention Authority Clarification Act today, which would amend the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) to make unambiguous Congress' intent that illegal aliens be subject to detention without bond pending removal from the United States. This is in response to splitdecisions by federal courts across the country about what should already be clear in section 235 of the INA-all who have entered the United States illegally are subject to mandatory detention.
"We are a nation of laws, and those who break these laws by coming to our country illegally must be held accountable for their actions. President Trump has worked hard to reaffirm the integrity of our nation's immigration system, yet hundreds of federal district court judges are allowing illegal aliens to avoid mandatory detention based on a supposed loophole. The Detention Authority Clarification Act would eliminate any doubt by reaffirming mandatory detention for those who have violated U.S. law by entering the country illegally," said Senator Budd.
"Aliens who enter our country illegally and threaten American lives must face mandatory detention and should not be able to seek bond to be released into our communities," said Senator Cornyn. "This legislation would clarify current law to stop woke judges from allowing illegal aliens to roam American streets and commit further crimes while they await deportation from the United States."
"Illegal immigrants who break our laws must be detained while they await deportation," said Senator Scott. "The Detention Authority Clarification Act would make sure that no one can enter our country illegally and evade removal. Illegal immigrants must be detained and deported promptly. This is a nation of laws, and breaking the law has consequences."
"During the four years under Biden, weak and ineffective enforcement of our nation's immigration laws created an opportunity for millions of dangerous illegal aliens to pour into our country. Instead of detaining these unvetted and unauthorized individuals, the Biden Administration let these lawbreakers walk free, many of whom went on to prey on innocent Americans, like Laken Riley. I am pleased to join Senator Budd and my colleagues in introducing the Detention Authority Clarification Act to ensure that when illegal immigrants break into our country, they remain in immigration detention until they are deported. This legislation will keep Americans safe and end the cycle of catch and release once and for all," said Senator Graham.
"Illegal aliens who gained entry under Biden's open border continue to endanger Americans' lives and must be removed as swiftly as possible," said Senator Blackburn. "The Detention Authority Clarification Act would ensure that these individuals must be detained without bond until they are promptly deported and are not allowed to evade the consequences of their crimes."
U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-Texas), Tim Scott (R-S.C.), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), and Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) joined in introducing the Detention Authority Clarification Act.
The Detention Authority Clarification Act is supported by the Immigration Accountability Project (IAP).
Read the full bill text HERE.
BACKGROUND
The Immigration and Nationality Act, as amended, requires the detention of illegal aliens. Previous administrations allowed these illegal aliens to be released on bond. However, the Trump administration now detains these illegal aliens in compliance with the statute and with Congress' intent. Thousands of detained, illegal aliens have filed lawsuits in federal courts challenging the Trump administration's interpretation of the INA, and hundreds of federal district judges have granted their request for release. Split panels of circuit court judges on the federal courts of appeals have sided with and against the Trump administration, and one such panel of judges deadlocked entirely on this question.
Specifically, section 235 of the INA, as amended by the Illegal Immigration Reform and Immigrant Responsibility Act (IIRIRA), provides that an alien who enters the U.S., including those who enter illegally, is deemed an "applicant for admission" and is to be subject to detention until the alien is lawfully admitted to the U.S. or removed from the U.S. in the case of an illegal alien.
Detention Authority Clarification Act :
* Clarifies the intent of section 235 of the INA to eliminate alleged ambiguity by stating that all who have entered the United States illegally are subject to mandatory detention.
* Requires mandatory detention for illegal aliens in section 236 of the INA to harmonize the language of sections 235 and 236.
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Original text here: https://www.budd.senate.gov/2026/05/21/budd-leads-colleagues-in-introducing-legislation-to-prevent-thousands-of-illegal-aliens-from-escaping-mandatory-detention/
Boozman, Lujan Champion Greater Access to Radiology Services
WASHINGTON, May 21 -- Sen. John Boozman, R-Arkansas, issued the following news release:* * *
Boozman, Lujan Champion Greater Access to Radiology Services
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WASHINGTON- U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR) and Ben Ray Lujan (D-NM) introduced legislation to improve Medicare beneficiaries' access to medical imaging services and address the provider shortage that exists nationwide, particularly in rural America. The Medicare Access to Radiology Care Act (MARCA) would allow radiologists to submit claims to Medicare for non-diagnostic services performed by radiologist assistants (RAs) they directly ... Show Full Article WASHINGTON, May 21 -- Sen. John Boozman, R-Arkansas, issued the following news release: * * * Boozman, Lujan Champion Greater Access to Radiology Services * WASHINGTON- U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR) and Ben Ray Lujan (D-NM) introduced legislation to improve Medicare beneficiaries' access to medical imaging services and address the provider shortage that exists nationwide, particularly in rural America. The Medicare Access to Radiology Care Act (MARCA) would allow radiologists to submit claims to Medicare for non-diagnostic services performed by radiologist assistants (RAs) they directlysupervise in both the hospital and office setting.
While RAs are recognized under Medicare to perform services under direct supervision, the radiology practices that employ them are unable to submit claims to Medicare for RA-performed services in hospitals, where they most frequently work.
"Medicare patients need timely access to medical imaging, but current guidelines continue to limit providers' ability to utilize this important diagnostic tool. We can remedy that by ensuring radiologist assistants, who are well qualified to assist on diagnostic and therapeutic radiology procedures, have the same opportunity whether in a hospital or doctor's office. Updating the regulations to allow reimbursement in either setting is a commonsense solution that I am pleased has bipartisan support," Boozman said.
"Too many Medicare patients, especially in rural communities across New Mexico, are struggling to access timely care because of health care workforce shortages and unnecessary barriers," said Lujan. "Qualified RAs are already playing an important role in delivering care, and Medicare policy should reflect that. This legislation will help expand access to quality care, reduce strain on providers, and ensure more seniors get the care they need closer to home."
In 2019, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services adjusted RA supervision requirements, which allowed providers to be reimbursed by Medicare for services performed by RAs in the office setting. However, the adjustment did not include reimbursement by Medicare for RA services performed in the hospital setting, creating a disparity that negatively impacts the radiology care available in hospitals. The bipartisan MARCA bill addresses that gap to restore access for patients in either setting and removes disincentives that jeopardize the ability of radiologists to meet demand for diagnosis and treatment.
Supporters of the legislation include the Arkansas Society of Radiologic Technologists, Arkansas Radiological Society, American College of Radiology, American Registry of Radiologic Technologists, American Society of Radiologic Technologists, Society of Radiology Physician Extenders, Association for Medical Imaging Management and RAYUS Radiology.
Click here to view bill text.
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Original text here: https://www.boozman.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/press-releases?ID=DC352216-08C1-48DC-8866-EB65D75CD6F1
Bean Bill to Crack Down on Medicare Fraud Passes Committee
WASHINGTON, May 21 -- Rep. Aaron Bean, R-Florida, issued the following news release:* * *
Bean Bill to Crack Down on Medicare Fraud Passes Committee
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WASHINGTON -Today, U.S. Congressman Aaron Bean's (FL-04) bill to combat fraud in the durable medical equipment (DME) system passed the House Ways and Means Committee. H.R. 8871, the DME Scammer Prevention Act, would strengthen oversight and modernize claims processing requirements to prevent bad actors from defrauding Medicare beneficiaries and stealing taxpayer dollars.
Watch Congressman Bean's full remarks in committee markup on the bill ... Show Full Article WASHINGTON, May 21 -- Rep. Aaron Bean, R-Florida, issued the following news release: * * * Bean Bill to Crack Down on Medicare Fraud Passes Committee * WASHINGTON -Today, U.S. Congressman Aaron Bean's (FL-04) bill to combat fraud in the durable medical equipment (DME) system passed the House Ways and Means Committee. H.R. 8871, the DME Scammer Prevention Act, would strengthen oversight and modernize claims processing requirements to prevent bad actors from defrauding Medicare beneficiaries and stealing taxpayer dollars. Watch Congressman Bean's full remarks in committee markup on the billhere.
Upon committee passage, Congressman Bean said, "Rising fraud and criminal activity in the DME industry threaten to undermine our Medicare system and drive up costs. My bill will crack down on fraud, strengthen oversight, and ensure Medicare dollars are spent on legitimate patient care."
"Seniors pay into Medicare their whole lives, but foreign fraudsters and transnational criminal rings are treating their earned benefits like a blank check," said Ways and Means Committee Chairman Jason Smith. "Thanks to Representative Bean's leadership, we're making it harder for these bad actors to prey on seniors and get rich on the taxpayers' dime and easier to stop fraud with digital tools. The DME Scammer Prevention Act modernizes Medicare fraud prevention so we can prevent scams, protect tax dollars, and preserve the benefits our seniors have earned."
BACKGROUND
The DME Scammer Prevention Act would require the electronic submission of DME products most susceptible to fraud within 90 days of the initial claim date. The current submission deadline is 365 days, which allows fraudulent vendors to take advantage of the payment system and cheat the American taxpayer.
The bill would also direct the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to conduct a comprehensive review of the technology used by Medicare Administrative Contractors to screen and process claims. This report will help identify gaps in current fraud detection tools and recommend improvements to better protect the Medicare system.
Importantly, widespread fraud has been enabled in part by outdated systems and paper-based processes, including the continued allowance of fax submissions. In fact, more than 40,000 durable medical equipment (DME) claims have been submitted on paper and faxed to CMS for reimbursement in the past year alone, underscoring the need for modernization and stronger electronic safeguards.
Full text of Congressman Bean's bill can be found HERE.
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Original text here: https://bean.house.gov/media/press-releases/bean-bill-crack-down-medicare-fraud-passes-committee
As Trump Administration Sets Up $1.8 Billion Slush Fund To Funnel Money to Trump Allies Committing Crimes on Behalf of the President, Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher Introduces Bill To Prohibit Self-Dealing Settlements
WASHINGTON, May 21 -- Rep. Lizzie Fletcher, D-Texas, issued the following news release:* * *
As Trump Administration Sets Up $1.8 Billion Slush Fund To Funnel Money to Trump Allies Committing Crimes on Behalf of the President, Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher Introduces Bill To Prohibit Self-Dealing Settlements
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Today, Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher (TX-07) introduced the No Presidential Self-Serving Lawsuits Act to bar any president from initiating civil lawsuits against the U.S. government while in office and to prohibit use of the Treasury's Judgement Fund to settle civil claims a president ... Show Full Article WASHINGTON, May 21 -- Rep. Lizzie Fletcher, D-Texas, issued the following news release: * * * As Trump Administration Sets Up $1.8 Billion Slush Fund To Funnel Money to Trump Allies Committing Crimes on Behalf of the President, Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher Introduces Bill To Prohibit Self-Dealing Settlements * Today, Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher (TX-07) introduced the No Presidential Self-Serving Lawsuits Act to bar any president from initiating civil lawsuits against the U.S. government while in office and to prohibit use of the Treasury's Judgement Fund to settle civil claims a presidentfiled, even after leaving office. The bill follows the announcement that President Trump initiated a lawsuit against the IRS and settled it by creating a slush fund to pay his allies for purported claims on "weaponization" of the legal system, including those charged in connection with the January 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol.
"President Trump's $10 billion lawsuit and unvetted 'settlement' agreement with a government department acting at his behest is a perversion of our system of justice," said Congresswoman Lizzie Fletcher. "Most of us could not have imagined that such a 'settlement' could occur, or that there are not more clear and obvious prohibitions to this outcome. But here we are: the President of the United States brought a lawsuit against the United States, appointed his personal attorney to the Department of Justice, and then 'settled' with the United States by creating a nearly $2 billion slush fund of our tax money to hand out to his supporters, including those who stormed the Capitol on January 6, without oversight, disclosure or guardrails. The corruption and abuse is staggering, even for this administration. That is why I am introducing the No Presidential Self-Serving Lawsuits Act to ensure that no president can use the power of the office to turn the courts and the Treasury into a personal rewards program for their political allies. And I am glad to lead the effort on this bill with the support of many original co-sponsors and endorsing organizations. It's hard to believe we have to do this, but we do."
In January, President Trump, his eldest sons, and the Trump Organization sued the IRS and Treasury Department for $10 billion over the leak of his private tax returns during his first term. Federal judges questioned whether the two sides were genuinely adverse-given that Trump controls the agencies he's suing-and pressured both parties to settle.
The proposed settlement would draw from the Treasury's Judgment Fund, a taxpayer-funded account for settled government claims, to compensate individuals allegedly targeted or "weaponized" against by the Biden administration. Eligible recipients could include Trump political allies, Trump-affiliated entities, and the nearly 1,600 defendants charged in connection with January 6. Trump would control a five-member commission with authority to approve awards, retain power to fire members without cause, and keep recipient identities private.
Congressman Gabe Amo (RI-01), Congresswoman Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Congressman Andre Carson (IN-07), Congressman Troy Carter (LA-02), Congressman Joaquin Castro (TX-20), Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09), Congresswoman Angie Craig (MN-02), Congresswoman Dianna DeGette (CO-01), Congressman Lloyd Doggett (TX-37), Congresswoman Lois Frankel (FL-22), Congressman Al Green (TX09), Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC-AL), Congressman Jared Huffman (CA-02), Congresswoman Jennifer McClellan (VA-04), Congressman Christian Menefee (TX-18), Congresswoman Gwen Moore (WI-04), Congressman Seth Moulton (MA-06), Congressman Jerrold Nadler (NY-12), Congressman Scott Peters (CA-50), Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (ME-01), Congresswoman Emily Randall (WA-06), Congresswoman Andrea Salinas (OR-06), Congressman Paul Tonko (NY-20), Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), and Congresswoman Nikema Williams (GA-05) joined Congresswoman Fletcher as original co-sponsors of this legislation.
Lawyers for Good Government and Public Citizen endorsed the legislation.
Congresswoman Fletcher is a member of the Democratic Litigation and Response Taskforce. On Monday, she joined 92 of her Democratic colleagues in filing an amicus brief on a motion to block the settlement.
To view the full text of the bill, click here.
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Original text here: https://fletcher.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=7367
Amodei Honors Departing Chief of Staff, Announces Successor
WASHINGTON, May 21 -- Rep. Mark Amodei, R-Nevada, issued the following news release:* * *
Amodei Honors Departing Chief of Staff, Announces Successor
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Washington, D.C. - Rep. Mark Amodei released the following statement announcing the departure of his Chief of Staff, Molly Cutrona, who has served Nevada's Second District for eight years. Ken Brooke, the current Deputy Chief of Staff, will succeed her.
"It is with a heavy heart that I announce the departure of one of my closest advisors and Chief of Staff, Molly Cutrona," said Rep. Mark Amodei. "While she hails from our neighbor California, ... Show Full Article WASHINGTON, May 21 -- Rep. Mark Amodei, R-Nevada, issued the following news release: * * * Amodei Honors Departing Chief of Staff, Announces Successor * Washington, D.C. - Rep. Mark Amodei released the following statement announcing the departure of his Chief of Staff, Molly Cutrona, who has served Nevada's Second District for eight years. Ken Brooke, the current Deputy Chief of Staff, will succeed her. "It is with a heavy heart that I announce the departure of one of my closest advisors and Chief of Staff, Molly Cutrona," said Rep. Mark Amodei. "While she hails from our neighbor California,we've chosen not to hold that against her and proudly consider her an honorary Nevadan.
Molly joined my team eight years ago as Legislative Director and in 2020 stepped into the role of Chief of Staff. She is without question one of the hardest working individuals I have had the privilege to work with, a beloved mentor, and a fierce defender of the values of Nevada's Second District. She led my D.C. office with integrity, grace, and unwavering loyalty, and earned the trust of all as a decisive problem solver in the face of Washington's many challenges.
She began her career in Rep. Ken Calvert's (CA-41) office after graduating from Pepperdine University. During her time with my office, she also got married and started a family, welcoming twins. It has been an honor to see her grow both professionally and personally over the years. While we are sad to see her leave, we are grateful for the privilege of working alongside her and have no doubt she will find continued success in the private sector.
We are excited to have Ken Brooke step into the role of Chief of Staff. A native Nevadan, Ken was first introduced to the office when he volunteered as an intern on my campaign in 2011. While studying at the University of Nevada, Reno, he served in our District Office beginning in 2013, before moving to Washington, D.C. in 2017 as a Legislative Assistant and most recently as Deputy Chief of Staff. Ken brings a deep understanding of the issues facing Nevadans, and I am confident he will excel in this new role."
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Original text here: https://amodei.house.gov/news-releases/amodei-honors-departing-chief-staff-announces-successor
Amid Pentagon Censorship Campaign, Senators Shaheen and Blumenthal Introduce Bill to Preserve Stars and Stripes Editorial Independence
WASHINGTON, May 21 -- Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, D-New Hampshire, issued the following news release:* * *
Amid Pentagon Censorship Campaign, Senators Shaheen and Blumenthal Introduce Bill to Preserve Stars and Stripes Editorial Independence
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**Senators' new bill comes as the Pentagon doubles down on new policies that tighten control over the military publication**
(Washington, DC) - U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), senior members of the Senate Armed Services Committee, are today introducing new legislation that preserves the independence of Stars and Stripes, ... Show Full Article WASHINGTON, May 21 -- Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, D-New Hampshire, issued the following news release: * * * Amid Pentagon Censorship Campaign, Senators Shaheen and Blumenthal Introduce Bill to Preserve Stars and Stripes Editorial Independence * **Senators' new bill comes as the Pentagon doubles down on new policies that tighten control over the military publication** (Washington, DC) - U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), senior members of the Senate Armed Services Committee, are today introducing new legislation that preserves the independence of Stars and Stripes,which has been subjected to repeated attacks from the Pentagon amid efforts to restrict freedom of the press. The legislation led by Shaheen, Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and Blumenthal, Ranking Member of the U.S. Senate Veterans' Affairs Committee, clarifies Stars and Stripes' editorial operations are independent of the military chain of command, military public affairs activities or other external influences and prohibit withholding of information unfavorable to the Department of Defense-standards that have governed the paper since the Civil War.
"For more than a century and a half, Stars and Stripes has told the story of our nation's military with accuracy and integrity," said Senator Shaheen. "Our legislation makes clear that Stars and Stripes ' independence is not negotiable-nor can it be intimidated into only reporting stories that Secretary Hegseth approves of."
"Stars and Stripes must be free from political influence and interference. Servicemembers, veterans, and their families across the globe have relied on this newspaper to provide honest, credible reporting on the issues facing them without ideological or political narratives for more than a century. The Administration's assault on Stars and Stripes constitutes unacceptable censorship, and our legislation will protect the newspaper's editorial independence now and forever," said Senator Blumenthal.
Click HERE to view legislative text.
In March, the Pentagon accused Stars and Stripes of focusing on "woke distractions" and announced it would expand oversight, including imposing new restrictions on content, of the independent publication. Last month, Stars and Stripes ombudsman Jacqueline Smith-a non-partial watchdog charged with monitoring the paper's independence- was fired. In a Stars and Stripes column, Smith alleged that the Pentagon was trying to silence her.
Shaheen and Blumenthal's bill comes as the Pentagon attempts to restrict press access writ large.
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Original text here: https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/amid-pentagon-censorship-campaign-senators-shaheen-and-blumenthal-introduce-bill-to-preserve-stars-and-stripes-editorial-independence
"We Cannot Look Away": Murkowski Details Devastating Toll of Ex-Typhoon Halong on Western Alaska Villages, Need to Address Critical Gaps in Disaster Recovery and Relocation
WASHINGTON, May 21 -- Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, issued the following news release:* * *
"We Cannot Look Away": Murkowski Details Devastating Toll of Ex-Typhoon Halong on Western Alaska Villages, Need to Address Critical Gaps in Disaster Recovery and Relocation
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WASHINGTON, DC- U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Chairman of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, delivered a floor statement on the impacts of ex-Typhoon Halong, which displaced more than 1,000 Alaskans and devastated communities along the coast of Western Alaska last October. Murkowski convened a two-part field hearing ... Show Full Article WASHINGTON, May 21 -- Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, issued the following news release: * * * "We Cannot Look Away": Murkowski Details Devastating Toll of Ex-Typhoon Halong on Western Alaska Villages, Need to Address Critical Gaps in Disaster Recovery and Relocation * WASHINGTON, DC- U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Chairman of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, delivered a floor statement on the impacts of ex-Typhoon Halong, which displaced more than 1,000 Alaskans and devastated communities along the coast of Western Alaska last October. Murkowski convened a two-part field hearingin Anchorage and Bethel during the May recess to hear firsthand from Alaskans impacted by the storm. During her floor remarks, the Senator discussed ongoing recovery efforts, challenges with the potential relocation of villages, and the need to strengthen federal mitigation and recovery programs.
Watch Senator Murkowski's full remarks here.
Transcript (edited for clarity):
"Earlier this month when I was back home in Alaska, I had an opportunity to have a two-part field hearing in my role as Chairman of the Senate committee on Indian affairs, and what the Committee was seeking to do was to examine the impacts of ex-Typhoon Halong. This was a major, major storm that devastated much of Western Alaska back in October 2025 and the committee looked to explore the various federal responses of the mitigation efforts and recovery programs that are available for Tribal communities.
"As I begin my comments today, I want to acknowledge the ever-present reality of the environmental threats to our coastal Western Alaska villages. This has been a problem - a challenge - for us for some period of time.
"It was 22 years ago that I sat at a different field hearing in Anchorage. It was convened by Senator Ted Stevens. At the time he was, I believe, chairing the Commerce Committee. But we heard testimony about the erosion and the flooding that was affecting coastal Alaskan Native villages, and even then Senator Stevens and I heard about the challenges that were faced by these typically very small, very rural communities in our state. And even back then, many of these communities were considering relocation, and it was from that initial field hearing that it was identified the many threatened communities - threatened by erosion, threatened by permafrost thaw. And so, I think it's important to try to understand why we have so many Alaska villages that face this threat.
"We're an Arctic state. We are a state that is seeing the impact of warming more dramatically than any other place in the country. We're also a big, big state.
"But it also goes back to the way that many Tribal communities were established across the Yukon-Kuskokwim Delta, which we refer to as the YK-Delta. The Native people of that region are largely Cup'ik and Yup'ik. They were historically nomadic people, and they moved with the seasons. They basically followed the subsistence resources, whether it was the game or the fish. When the fall came, which is the time when we see stronger storm surges, they would often move onto higher ground to avoid the worst of the storm's effects.
"But history moved forward and following the purchase of Alaska from Russia, and in line with the assimilationist policies of the time, the Bureau of Indian Affairs began to build schools and this caused families to settle around the schools. Settlement locations were not chosen following good feasibility studies or cost-benefit analyses. They didn't navigate environmental reviews or work through a lengthy permitting process, nor were they developed in conversation and consultation with surrounding Native communities, whose traditional knowledge about the land may have helped them avoid some ecological hazards.
"With the passage of the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act, the Alaska National Interest Land Conservation Act, the National Environmental Protection Act, and so many of the other laws regarding land ownership and the environment, what we saw were the Yup'ik and the Cup'ik people were largely unable to relocate as they historically might have. And as such, over time, many of these small Alaska Native villages have experienced more and greater natural disasters. And some of them have been extremely devastating.
"And this is where I'd like to speak about ex-Typhoon Halong. It's now seven months after this typhoon hit Western Alaska, but that seven months has not dulled the terror of that storm, which is still present with so many. The storm crossed over a hundred thousand square miles. This is an area roughly the size of Colorado, and people in the region - again, primarily along the coast, very exposed - experienced winds exceeding a hundred miles an hour and a flooding storm surge pushing the floodwaters up to 25 miles inland from the coast. So you think you're safe when you're inland. Not so much when we have these extraordinary, extraordinary storm surges.
"There are two villages that were devastated, the Native village of Kipnuk and Kwigillingok. And the damage there to homes and community facilities was so great that the residents had to be evacuated. They were taken either to Bethel or to Anchorage. But when I say evacuated, they were evacuated by the hundreds in the belly of a C-130 that came in, landed, and did a mass evacuation of these small villages. The pictures of hundreds of Native families sitting on the floor of a C-130 flying to safety because their villages had literally been swept away. And I think it's important to keep in mind, Bethel is around 150 miles from Kipnuk and 500 miles from Anchorage. So they're being evacuated from their village to very far away.
"And when I say these villages were damaged, it was 90% of Kipnuk's community infrastructure that was destroyed or rendered entirely unusable. I was able to go into Kipnuk with several of the military leaders less than a week after the storm hit. It was eerily quiet. Really, the only sounds that one heard was an occasional dog that was barking because the people, when they were evacuated, were not allowed to take their animals. It was - it was devastation like something I've not ever seen.
"Kipnuk is a boardwalk community, which means that it is built on a tundra type land which is very wet, very marshy, very spongy, and so there are no roads. You drive a four-wheeler along a boardwalk. You walk around the boardwalk. The boardwalks had been lifted up, tangled and tossed, and driven into the sides of homes. Homes had been lifted up off of their foundations and floated not just a couple of feet, but miles away.
"When you think about what this does - when it rips up boardwalks, when it lifts up homes off of their very foundation, the community's water source is gone; the boardwalks, which are their main roads, torn up, impassable. Again, homes are, are lifted, ripped off their pilings, drifting miles away. And Mr. President, this all happened so quickly in the dark of night in October that most people were still in their homes. They hadn't been able to get the word to go to the school where it may have been safer. These people were in their homes.
"Sewage lagoons were breached and failed, spilling massive amounts of human waste across the local environment, including across many of the key subsistence areas and the cemeteries where the remains of their families are. Caskets began floating free in the waters. It's hard to describe the devastation. It's hard to describe even though I was able to see that damage as we flew into Kipnuk. You could see across the wide vacant tundra a random house catty-wompus over there. I could see small white objects in the tundra that I couldn't recognize. It was only after I landed that I learned that those were caskets that had floated out and were now littered across the tundra.
"So, seven months beyond that event, people are still talking about the devastation to their community. And for those who were who were evacuated to Anchorage, adapting to life in our state's largest city has also posed its own challenges. And as I have said, the people who were evacuated are now safe from a storm, but they're facing other threats that are equally challenging.
"Right after the event, I was there again - it was about a week afterwards - and I went to visit the two congregate sheltering sites in Anchorage to visit the evacuees. I went up to one little girl. She was probably about six years old and she was coloring. I went over to say hello. She was super sweet, and I said, 'What picture have you drawn?' And she showed me and it was her house. And she says, 'This is me and my family in my house.' And then she kinda hugs my leg and she says, 'Are you afraid of the dark?' And I said, 'No, I'm not afraid of the dark. Are you afraid of the dark?' And she said, 'I didn't used to be, but now I am.'
"And I, and I think about that little girl and that storm is long gone, but the trauma that she shared... because I later learned that hers was one of the families that was drifting for hours in the dark. Their house was spinning around in the current until it slammed into something that ultimately stopped it. So that trauma for that six-year-old, I don't know how that goes away.
"Anchorage is nearly 500 miles away and over 240 times bigger than Kipnuk. And again, Kipnuk may be 800 people on a good day. That's probably being generous, Anchorage is an urban place. It's English-dominated. It's close to mountainous terrain. Everything is different from what these people know in their village. It's impractical to live a subsistence lifestyle in Anchorage.
"Just a very quick case in point: spring is the time of year when Native people who live out in these tundra villages, they'll go out and they'll gather eggs - seagull eggs, goose eggs - but it's part of the spring harvest that just brings great delight to them and to their families. And when I was visiting with some at this hearing that we had a few weeks back, I said, 'What's the hardest thing about being here in Anchorage?' And they said, 'We can't get subsistence food right now. We should be gathering eggs.' And I turned to my team and I said there ought to be a way that even in a big city you should be able to have a subsistence harvest.
"Long story short, I was able to deliver 280 seagull eggs that had been collected off the tops of tall buildings - not the way that it is harvested in villages - but they were given to the elders of these villages who had been evacuated, with the permission of our federal resource agencies. But it was just one small thing that makes me think, we can try to put you in a safe place, but when everything else around you is foreign, it still becomes hard.
"The language barrier is a challenge. Accessing most social services in Anchorage requires at least a passing knowledge of English, and so for many of our conversations at our field hearing, we had interpreters who were translating to those who primarily speak Yup'ik. So challenges in terms of the gaps that we have.
"Students have been transferred to local schools in the Anchorage area and in the Bethel schools, and they're doing the best that they can to adapt to urban life, but culture shock is very real and we're seeing how it has taken a toll.
"We have heard that maybe at least one that we have confirmed, but possibly two young people, have taken their own lives since relocating to Anchorage. Others, we've heard, have fallen victim to substance use. Others are becoming homeless and ending up on our streets.
"And I know there are strong social service organizations like the Yukon-Kuskokwim Health Corporation, Southcentral Foundation, Rural Alaska Community Action Program, the Anchorage School District. So, many are doing their best to provide support to Halong survivors, but the truth is that the systems that we have in place to support communities after disasters like Typhoon Halong are simply not built to help relocate communities. They were not built to support evacuated people for long periods of time, nor were they provided with the flexibility to support people for whom English is a second language.
"So lots of different things that we looked at and saw as system failures. So what do we do? Because these are Alaskans who need help. And from the time of the storm on, it's been my goal to ensure that they have the help that they need.
"Our field hearing was yet one more way to ensure people were heard and that their issues receive the federal attention that they demand.
"So the first part of our hearing was in Anchorage. We heard from elected Tribal leaders and representatives from the Native villages of Kwigillingok. Sometimes we just call it Kip and Kwig because obviously it's easier to say Kip and Kwig. But I'll tell you, so much of what we heard on that first day was really heartbreaking.
"Lucy Martin, who is Kwigillingok's Tribal Resilience and Planning Assistant, described what it meant, what it felt like, to be floating along the river in her home after it was detached from its foundation. Again, you're floating in the current; it's dark; there's nothing to see outside except dark. But what she did see were floating caskets of dead relatives going by her window. She said it was like living through a horror movie.
"And in his recounting of the evening that the storm hit, Kipnuk Chief Paul J. Paul, just choked up. He had such a hard time describing being in the house with his family in the dark, trying to be the strong adult, when his young granddaughter - his six-year-old granddaughter - said, 'Grandpa,' or 'Papa,' 'can we sing Silent Night?' because she wanted to bring some quiet to the horror that they were living in as their home floated away.
"When I came before this chamber last year after the storm, directly after, I noted how resilient the people of Alaska are - how community members, the National Guard, the Coast Guard, everyone - worked tirelessly in preparation, rescue, and recovery efforts.
"And I will tell you, Mr. President, no doubt about it, these communities are resilient, and we saw that on display in our field hearings as leaders recounted their personal traumatic experiences, while at the same time advocating for their communities and urging what the path forward should look like for their communities, but also for others that may be threatened.
"But here we are, seven months after the storm, and it's clear that evacuees are just kind of in this limbo place. They have clearly expressed their preference to relocate, but they continue to grapple with a federal response system that can only facilitate their assimilation to a community that they're uncomfortable with - Anchorage or, or Bethel. It's just not home. It's different.
"But also a federal government that says 'we'll help you, but you have to return to the site of the tragedy.' So FEMA says 'we're there for you, but you've got to relocate where you are, you rebuild where you are, and in this case it's a site that is now unstable, likely highly, highly contaminated.'
"Lucy Martin described the ground there as like walking on a Jell-O pad. She also said it felt like walking on a waterbed. So how do you reestablish a home in an area like that? These should not be the evacuation-only options, but we know firsthand in Alaska how challenging it can be to actually help communities relocate.
"The very first bill that I ever got signed into law here in my time in the United States Senate was a land exchange that authorized - helped to facilitate - the relocation of the Western Alaska community of Newtok. They wanted to relocate because, again, they are low-lying, very much on the coast, threatened by just the land around them. So they voted to relocate to a new site nine miles upriver, a new site called Mertarvik. And we introduced the land exchange bill. It was signed into law by President George W. Bush back in 2003.
"I wish that I could take credit for all the origins of this, but quite honestly they go back to the '70s and the '80s when Newtok community members first became alarmed by the nearby river erosion. But it took until 2019 for the first Newtok residents to actually be able to relocate to Mertarvik.
"And to this day, the residents now relocated there are dealing with substandard housing -housing that perhaps went up too quick. I'm not going to assign blame for it, but the housing is still a challenge. Community facilities that are still, still not what we would like them to be. It has been painstakingly slow, and that's probably the best way to describe this process.
"Relocation also requires local communities to work together and to engage with federal, state, and regional partners for success. And my view on this whole issue of relocation, as hard as it is, is that we've got to figure out how we can be responsive to community needs, especially if these communities like Kip and Kwig have experienced a disaster so destructive that the environment around them has fundamentally changed to the point of being unlivable.
"If relocation is a community's top priority, how do we respect that? How do we ensure that, that there is a path available for it?
"We also need to do a better job supporting all communities that are affected by natural disasters. The second day of our hearing underscored that. In Bethel, we heard more about ex-Typhoon Halong and about the effects of Typhoon Merbok.
"Typhoon Merbok was a 2022 storm that, again, had pretty much ripped through that entire region, through the Bering Strait, all the way down to the YK-Delta. And then, they had a massive flooding event just this last year. So again, consecutive disasters that are coming through these regions.
"What we heard on the second day of that field hearing was a lack of rural emergency response infrastructure, the barriers to accessing FEMA and state assistance, and the fact that there's no coordinating entity at the federal level for disaster, response, and relocation efforts.
"We have in the state of Alaska, a regional commission, the Denali Commission. It's well positioned in Alaska, but truth of the matter is, it lacks the funding to address every need associated with relocation. And utilizing the Denali Commission alone would not solve similar issues that are faced by lower 48 communities.
"After the field hearing, on that same day, we hosted a listening session for Tribal leaders and their designees, and what I heard was - even in the communities that were not hit by ex-Typhoon Halong, or it would just hit mildly - was that the effects of recent disasters and ongoing ecological changes are dramatic.
"We heard, for example, from the Native Village of Chefornak's Tribal President, Janet Erik who shared her community is combating a combination of riverine, erosion, permafrost degradation, and overcrowding. And so Chefornak is not just sitting and waiting, they are pursuing a managed retreat strategy. They're building new homes on higher ground. They're putting them on pilings. They're putting them away from the adjacent river, while they're also working to remediate and remove buildings that are close to literally falling into the water.
"In contrast to Kipnuk and Kwigillingok, residents did not evacuate from Chefornak in the wake of Halong, only about 10 homes sustained damage, and the community actually took in several evacuated families.
"I think it shows that when you look at this through the lens of, 'how can we be proactive to put ourselves in a safer situation', like they were doing in the process of doing in Chefornak, it can make a difference. But even there, in Chefornak, the sewage lagoon and the landfill were washed out, contaminating land where community members pick their berries, gather their greens, and hunt, as well as the waterways where they fish. And the land has changed. The waters have changed. An entirely new waterway has formed near the land along the road to the airstrip. And their boardwalks are sinking, again, due to the melting permafrost. So these are realities on the ground.
"For Alaskans living in coastal and riverside communities, it's not a question of if the next typhoon will hit, but really a matter of when. And, Mr. President, I know we all have disasters that impact our states and communities. You come from a state where you see, you see tornadoes coming through that bring about massive destruction. And I think we have to appreciate what happens in our respective states, and the challenges, then, that we all have in responding. Alaska's challenges, perhaps, are a little bit accentuated because our geography is so massive, and our communities are so isolated.
"When I describe an evacuation, it's not just getting in your car and being able to move to safety. You have to wait for a C-130 to be able to land and do a massive evacuation of your village, in the situation of Kip, Kwig, and some of the others. And we also know that these communities were in the news, certainly in Alaska, when all this was going on. Small community, big impact. But we have this tendency to just move from what we're seeing unfolding on our screens to the next disaster that has hit somewhere else. And the people who are living with that trauma and looking at the disaster still in their area - they can't just look away. And I can't look away.
"Just think about the Arctic in the same space as Typhoon. There were no typhoons when I was growing up in Alaska, regardless of where I was living. But we are seeing these phenomenons impact us, growing more frequent. 50 year floodplain estimates are now being reached in closer to two or three years. And so it's just hard to move away from the growing reality.
"We have an emergency response manager. He's an extraordinary professional Bryan Fisher. He has been with the state of Alaska for a more than 30-year career in emergency services. He testified at that hearing in Bethel that out of the 198 disasters he had led, the state response to Typhoon Halong has been by far the most catastrophic.
"We know increased community threats from natural disasters, again, are not just a problem in Western Alaska or in Alaska in general. We've heard the stories from colleagues from North Carolina, from Tennessee, from Georgia, who were here to talk about the devastation following Hurricane Helene and the challenges that those communities have faced with federal disaster relief and recovery. There were also stories of Tribal communities in Southwest Washington State and Louisiana that face worsening, extreme weather events and sea level rise. And after our field hearing it's even more clear to me that the systems in place to protect our communities don't work as we need them to.
"Going back to my example of Newtok to Mertarvik, people want to view that relocation and say, 'success.' We relocated a village, and I suppose it is, if you want to consider the simple idea that the community wanted to move, voted to move, and they have since moved. But a closer look reveals many difficult, expensive lessons learned along the way.
"That relocation was a generation plus in the making. It's great success is now arguably measured in the lives not lost during ex-Typhoon Halong. I think about that and I think we've got to have a higher bar than that. Success cannot be measured only in terms of life or death. It also must include the dignity afforded to communities that are constituents call home.
"So where does this put us? What do we do going forward?
"We all need to pay attention, show up for the people that we serve, and for each other. And in the coming months, my team and I will continue working with Alaska communities, the state, and other federal agencies to chart a path forward. And our goal is to establish a more nimble system for the communities facing environmental threats - one that works with them and for them.
"So, a couple suggestions.
"First, I think you need a lead agency. Back in 2004, witnesses from the State of Alaska expressed that this is just too much for the State to take on alone. That was true back in 2004, that is still true. And with the communities threatened across the country, there is a federal nexus. We'll do better if we can pool experience and lessons learned and work from a centralized vantage point.
"Next, we need to take another look at the way that we have siloed community resilience away from disaster response. We need to ensure that all parties are communicating and pulling together on infrastructure hardening, pre-disaster planning and mitigation, disaster response, recovery, and relocation efforts.
"We also need to ensure that these systems are easier to navigate. I hear this all the time. These systems have to be easier to navigate for the communities that are strapped for resources. Narrow grants that have to be pieced together, oftentimes over the course of years are not the most cost effective way to address the problem, especially for Tribal communities that are already struggling with low capacity.
"Right now, tribal leaders like Janet and her fellow council members in Chefornak are being asked to choose between building new homes for families that have moved in with relatives since their old homes were literally leaning into the river, or decommissioning and decontaminating old buildings that are also about to fall into the river.
"I do want to acknowledge, and we're very grateful for, the $16.7 million that the BIA just awarded to Chefornak through the Tribal Community Resilience Program. But this is just a start, because those are impossible choices that are facing far too many of our communities. It's not just Chefornak.
"In the meantime, I promise not to look away and to keep bringing folks up to Alaska to see, to understand, and to hear. As conversations continue about the best way to structure our disaster response system, I want to work with colleagues on both sides of the aisle, wherever you are, to address not only the unique needs in my home state, but of all our states, and make sure that they're adequately addressed. Our disasters and the response to them may look different. Iget that. But our people all deserve the same access to safety and disaster response. And we can't lose sight of that.
"I also want to acknowledge Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs, Billy Kirkland. Assistant Secretary Kirkland and his staff showed up for the people of my state. He sat with me for hours, as we heard from the people of Kipnuk and Kwigillingok when we had our field hearing in Anchorage, and then he traveled with me to Bethel, as we heard from Tribal leaders across the YK-Delta on these very important issues.
"As we listened, I was struck by some words from Charlotte Nayagak. She's from the Chevak Native Village, and she's worked on disaster, recovery, and prevention in the region for many years. She went up to the mic and she had, like, two minutes to speak, but she started off by saying, 'Finally, finally, someone from out there, not just from Alaska - finally, somebody is listening to us. We need this, we need this help. Finally, somebody is listening to us,'
"So imagine, imagine spending decades watching, as Charlotte described, the erosion of your land getting worse and worse each year, happening faster and faster, and just feeling like nobody from outside your community - nobody from outside your state - is listening.
"We should all be listening, Mr. President. We should all be working together to provide a better future, even for the darkest disasters, for the people that we serve, no matter where they live.
"So, Mr. President, I look forward to working with all of my colleagues to do just that."
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Original text here: https://www.murkowski.senate.gov/press/release/we-cannot-look-away-murkowski-details-devastating-toll-of-ex-typhoon-halong-on-western-alaska-villages-need-to-address-critical-gaps-in-disaster-recovery-and-relocation