U.S. Congress
Here's a look at documents from all members of the U.S. House and the U.S. Senate
Featured Stories
Bennet, Smith, Cortez Masto Introduce Legislation Protecting Children Harmed by ICE Actions Against Their Parents
WASHINGTON, May 4 -- Sen. Michael F. Bennet, D-Colorado, issued the following news release:
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Bennet, Smith, Cortez Masto Introduce Legislation Protecting Children Harmed by ICE Actions Against Their Parents
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Denver -Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet joined U.S. Senators Tina Smith (D-Minn.) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) to introduce the Humane Enforcement and Legal Protections (HELP) for Separated Children Act. The legislation would protect children affected by immigration enforcement actions or proceedings against their parents. According to a 2019 analysis, there are 7.2 million
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WASHINGTON, May 4 -- Sen. Michael F. Bennet, D-Colorado, issued the following news release:
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Bennet, Smith, Cortez Masto Introduce Legislation Protecting Children Harmed by ICE Actions Against Their Parents
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Denver -Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet joined U.S. Senators Tina Smith (D-Minn.) and Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.) to introduce the Humane Enforcement and Legal Protections (HELP) for Separated Children Act. The legislation would protect children affected by immigration enforcement actions or proceedings against their parents. According to a 2019 analysis, there are 7.2 millionchildren of noncitizen parents in the United States.
"Coloradans must be assured that ICE is subject to the same common-sense practices we expect from well-functioning local law enforcement, especially when it comes to the best interests of children," said Bennet. "The HELP for Separated Children Act will bring dignity back to families and help ensure proper safeguards are in place to hold ICE accountable. We cannot allow the Trump Administration to tear families apart."
"The images of 5-year-old Liam Conejo Ramos in his bunny hat after preschool are seared into the minds of Minnesotans. Using children as pawns to detain their parents is morally repugnant," said Smith. "This bill would put common-sense moral safeguards in place to protect children from ICE agents' brutal tactics. Children are our most precious gift and needlessly traumatizing them in service of this Administration's mass deportation campaign is beneath this nation's morals."
"President Trump promised to go after the worst of the worst, but his immigration agenda is targeting hardworking immigrants instead," said Cortez Masto. "Innocent kids across the United States have been caught in the crossfire as their parents become targets of his Administration's cruel immigration enforcement efforts. We must pass the HELP for Separated Children Act to require immigrant families be treated with dignity and to protect the rights of the most vulnerable among us."
Since the Trump Administration began its mass-deportation operations, families and children have been deeply affected by ICE's aggressive immigration enforcement tactics. Families with young children have been violently targeted by ICE officers, children have been unjustly detained alongside their parents, and ICE agents have used kids to bait parents into cooperating with immigration enforcement. These actions by the Trump Administration have violated ICE's own Detained Parents Directive.
The HELP for Separated Children Act would protect children caught up in immigration enforcement actions or proceedings against their parents. Specifically, the bill:
1. Allows parents to make calls and arrange for the care of their children and ensures that children can regularly call and visit their parents while they are detained;
2. Prohibits Federal personnel from using excessive force in the arrest or apprehension of individuals while children are present, including but not limited to drawing weapons or throwing individuals to the ground, and from deceiving a child for the purposes of immigration enforcement of their parents or family members;
3. Allows parents to participate in family court proceedings affecting their children;
4. Protects children from being compelled to serve as translators for their parents in immigration enforcement actions;
5. Ensures that parents can coordinate their departures with their children;
6. Requires ICE to consider the best interests of children in detention, release, and transfer decisions affecting their parents; and
7. Establishes a National Coordinator who serves as the primary point-of-contact and subject-matter expert for ICE personnel regarding child welfare and guardianship.
"All children and families deserve safety and stability in their communities," said Shaina Simenas, Co-Director, Technical Assistance Program at the Young Center for Immigrant Children's Rights. "Yet too often, relentless and aggressive immigration enforcement actions are fueling fear and family separation in places where children should feel most secure -at home, at school, and with their caregivers. The HELP Separated Children Act would help to advance protections for children and enhance parents' ability to make care arrangements; Congress must pass it without delay."
"Family unity has been the bedrock of our immigration system for decades," said Zain Lakhani, Director of Migrant Rights and Justice at the Women's Refugee Commission. "But that principle is consistently violated, leaving parents and children in limbo without vital protections. WRC has documented systemic violations of ICE policies to prevent family separation, leaving parents and children traumatized and with few options for relief. The HELP Separated Children Act is essential legislation that would codify these protections and help give parents a path towards reunification."
"A parent's right to make decisions about the care of their child is sacred. Right now, immigrant parents who are detained are being cut off from the courts, agencies, and information they need to determine future care for their children," said Keeli Sorensen, Director of Policy and Government Affairs at Justice in Motion. "The HELP Separated Children Act is a critical step towards addressing these grave injustices, codifying essential rights and liberties, and minimizing trauma for parents and children."
In January 2026, Bennet announced he is developing legislation to impose new guardrails and accountability measures for the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), including Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Patrol (CBP). Also in January 2026, Bennet condemned DHS's cruel and unconscionable policies on the Senate floor. In December 2025, Bennet joined his colleagues to introduce the Upholding Protections for Unaccompanied Children Act, legislation to reverse the provisions in Republicans' so-called "One Big Beautiful Bill" that harm children seeking safety from trafficking, abuse, and exploitation in their home countries. In March 2025, Bennet joined his colleagues to introduce the Fair Day in Court for Kids Act, legislation that provides unaccompanied children with legal representation for immigration proceedings.
The HELP for Separated Children Act is endorsed by the Center for Law and Social Policy (CLASP), Women's Refugee Commission, Young Center for Immigrant Children's Rights, Justice in Motion, Child Welfare League of America, Kids in Need of Defense (KIND), National Immigration Project, Together and Free, Center for the Study of Social Policy, MomsRising, Acacia Center for Justice, Immigrant Legal Resource Center (ILRC), First Focus Campaign for Children, National Association of Social Workers, American Academy of Pediatrics, and National Education Association and Coalition on Human Needs.
In addition to Bennet, Smith, and Cortez Masto, U.S. Senators Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Duckworth (D-Ill.), Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Baldwin (D-Wis.), Warren (D-Mass.), Welch (D-Vt.), Sanders (I-Vt.), Kaine (D-Va.), Murray (D-Wash.), Markey (D-Mass.), Van Hollen (D-Md.), Kim (D-N.J.), Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Hirono (D-Hawaii), and Rosen (D-Nev.) cosponsored this bill.
The text of the bill is available HERE.
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Original text here: https://www.bennet.senate.gov/2026/05/04/bennet-smith-cortez-masto-introduce-legislation-protecting-children-harmed-by-ice-actions-against-their-parents/
Barrett Ramps Up Effort to Block Government Officials from Profiting Off Insider Information
WASHINGTON, May 4 -- Rep. Tom Barrett, R-Michigan, issued the following news release:
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Barrett Ramps Up Effort to Block Government Officials from Profiting Off Insider Information
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Washington, D.C. - Last week, Congressman Tom Barrett (MI-07) co-sponsored the bipartisan Preventing Real-time Exploitation and Deceptive Insider Congressional Trading (PREDICT) Act ( H.R. 8076 ) to prevent senior government officials from betting in prediction markets and profiting off insider knowledge. This comes just days after Barrett established a new office policy banning every member of his staff from
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WASHINGTON, May 4 -- Rep. Tom Barrett, R-Michigan, issued the following news release:
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Barrett Ramps Up Effort to Block Government Officials from Profiting Off Insider Information
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Washington, D.C. - Last week, Congressman Tom Barrett (MI-07) co-sponsored the bipartisan Preventing Real-time Exploitation and Deceptive Insider Congressional Trading (PREDICT) Act ( H.R. 8076 ) to prevent senior government officials from betting in prediction markets and profiting off insider knowledge. This comes just days after Barrett established a new office policy banning every member of his staff fromplacing bets on prediction markets involving government action, political activity, or any knowledge they may have learned through their employment.
"Prediction markets like Kalshi and Polymarket are changing the betting landscape by giving Americans a place to wager on everything from the weather in Chicago to the winner of an election in Kalamazoo. They are also a breeding ground for potential manipulation and corruption," said Barrett. "The PREDICT Act gets ahead of this rapidly developing problem by banning high-ranking government officials -who are in the perfect position to influence outcomes -from betting on these under-regulated platforms and profiting off insider information. This bipartisan bill is a common-sense way to hold politicians in Washington to the same standard I hold my office to and begin the difficult process of rebuilding trust in government."
Specifically, the PREDICT Act would prohibit members of Congress, the president and vice president, cabinet members, judges, and other high-ranking federal officials from trading on the outcomes of political events, policy decisions, and other government actions.
This legislation comes after Kalshi uncovered three political candidates using the platform to bet on their own races and as police investigate possible tampering with a weather thermometer by a Polymarket trader who bet on a temperature surge. It also comes after a soldier was charged for using classified information about the planned arrest of Venezuelan dictator Nicolas Maduro to place several bets in advance of the military operation.
The PREDICT Act is the newest addition to the first pillar of Barrett's Blueprint for a Better America : Restoring Trust in Government.
CLICK HERE to read the bill.
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Original text here: https://barrett.house.gov/media/press-releases/barrett-ramps-effort-block-government-officials-profiting-insider-information
AS WESTERN NY SEES RECORD HIGH GROCERY COSTS, SCHUMER ANNOUNCES LANDMARK LEGISLATION TO BREAK UP THE MEATPACKING MONOPOLIES, HELP FARMERS, AND DRIVE DOWN COST OF MEAT FOR FAMILIES
WASHINGTON, May 4 (Sen.) -- Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer, D-New York, issued the following news release:
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AS WESTERN NY SEES RECORD HIGH GROCERY COSTS, SCHUMER ANNOUNCES LANDMARK LEGISLATION TO BREAK UP THE MEATPACKING MONOPOLIES, HELP FARMERS, AND DRIVE DOWN COST OF MEAT FOR FAMILIES
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Schumer Says Four Corporate Giants Dominate Meat Market, Squeezing Farmers And Ranchers Who Keep Just 16 Cents Of Every Dollar Spent On Food, And Rigging The System Against WNY Families
New Schumer Bill Will Break Up Big Monopolies In Meat Packing That Lead To Higher Prices And Restore Real
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WASHINGTON, May 4 (Sen.) -- Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer, D-New York, issued the following news release:
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AS WESTERN NY SEES RECORD HIGH GROCERY COSTS, SCHUMER ANNOUNCES LANDMARK LEGISLATION TO BREAK UP THE MEATPACKING MONOPOLIES, HELP FARMERS, AND DRIVE DOWN COST OF MEAT FOR FAMILIES
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Schumer Says Four Corporate Giants Dominate Meat Market, Squeezing Farmers And Ranchers Who Keep Just 16 Cents Of Every Dollar Spent On Food, And Rigging The System Against WNY Families
New Schumer Bill Will Break Up Big Monopolies In Meat Packing That Lead To Higher Prices And Restore RealCompetition To Lowering Costs
Schumer: New Bill Will Bring Down Costs For Families At The Grocery Store
As Western New Yorkers face some of the fastest price growth for groceries in the country, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer today stood with Western New York farmers and families at the beloved Niagara Sausage Company to introduce the Family Grocery and Farmer Relief Act. The Senator's new landmark legislation would break up the big meat monopolies, boost farmers Upstate, and lower grocery costs for families.
"The meatpacking monopoly is driving up costs for Western New Yorkers at the grocery store and rigging the game against local farmers. Corporate giants dominate the meat market and set prices sky-high for families, all while squeezing profits from farmers by eliminating competition, and it needs to end," said Senator Schumer. "That's why I'm introducing legislation - the Family Grocery and Farmer Relief Act - to break up the monopoly and lower costs. This bill is centered around making groceries more affordable, making farmers more profitable, and putting the needs of working middle-class people ahead of the interests of powerful corporations. Local businesses like Niagara Sausage Company are the backbone of communities; they love their customers and want prices to be affordable, and they get hurt by big corporations and suppliers rigging the game against consumers. America's economy and our Main Streets are stronger when costs are lower and we have true competition, and this bill will do exactly that."
Recent reporting shows that families in the Buffalo area are spending some of the most on groceries in the country. Families in Buffalo spend the eighth largest percentage of their income on groceries in an analysis of 100 of the largest American cities. According to analysis from the Urban Institute, New York's 26 th Congressional District, which covers parts of Erie and Niagara Counties, has experienced some of the fastest price growth for groceries in the country in the past ten years. Grocery prices have increased from $758.95 to $1,149.02 each month, a whopping more than 50% increase.
Schumer explained that a major driver of high meat prices is a food system rigged in favor of corporate monopolies. Four companies, Tyson Foods, JBS, Cargill, and National Beef, control 85% of the beef market, 67% of the pork market, and 60% of the chicken market.
Schumer's Family Grocery and Farmer Relief Act is a competition-driven, pro-farmer, pro-rancher, pro-worker, pro-consumer, cost-of-living bill that breaks up dominant meatpackers and uses all available tools to stop unfair pricing that drives up grocery bills for American families. The bill would force the biggest meatpackers to choose a line of business instead of dominating beef, pork, and chicken all at once, and aims to provide financial and technical assistance to farmers' cooperatives and small businesses that seek to acquire, operate, or expand meatpacking plants or facilities, helping make more local supply chains to lower costs. In addition, to directing the FTC to go after foreign-controlled conglomerates that squeeze American producers and distort U.S. markets.
"We appreciate Senator Schumer's relentless advocacy as it pertains to affordability, especially for many hard-working residents in the City of Niagara Falls who are trying to make ends meet at a time when costs for everything seemingly continues to increase with no end in sight," said Niagara Falls Mayor Robert Restaino. "At the same time, the agricultural sector is vital to the economic well-being of Niagara County and it's important that the City demonstrates its support on issues that bolster and protect our rural communities from economic harm."
Niagara Sausage Company owner Mike Greenawalt said, "At Niagara Sausage Company, we live the reality behind rising grocery prices every single day-both as a small business and as members of this community. The cost of meat, spices, packaging, utilities, and transportation has increased significantly over the past few years. These aren't abstract numbers to us-they directly impact how we operate and what we're able to offer our customers. For our customers, higher grocery prices are not a "hoax." They're a real and daily concern. We see it in conversations at the counter, in families making tougher choices, and in our own efforts to keep prices as fair and accessible as possible without compromising quality. As a small, local shop, we don't have the buying power of large corporate chains. Every increase from suppliers forces difficult decisions. We've worked hard to absorb as much of these costs as we can, because we know our customers depend on us for quality products at honest prices. We believe it's important to acknowledge what people are experiencing. Food affordability matters. Supporting local businesses matters. And having honest conversations about the challenges facing both consumers and small businesses matters. We remain committed to serving our community with transparency, quality, and integrity-and we thank our customers for continuing to support local."
"We have known for years that the number and capacity of slaughter facilities has been a significant bottleneck to the emerging livestock businesses across New York. It's incredibly encouraging to see Senator Schumer showcase leadership on this issue. Anything that can increase competition, streamline regulatory burdens, and improve availability will really drive growth, as well as consumer value for local protein," said Mark Russell, President of Niagara County Farm Bureau
"Every day at Community Missions, we see the impact of the food insecurity that Western New Yorkers are experiencing, " said Robyn L. Krueger, President & CEO Community Missions. "We are grateful of Senator Schumer's action in introducing the Family Grocery and Farmer Relief Act. Increasing grocery prices is a concern for all of us, and especially for everyone that our organization serves. We appreciate that Sen. Schumer is fighting for the thousands of individuals that we serve, while also working to strengthen our local agricultural economy."
"At Becken Farms in Sanborn, we have seen firsthand how consolidation in the meatpacking industry has made it harder for small, family-run farms to compete and get a fair price for our cattle," said owner William Ziemendorf. " When only a few buyers show up at auction, competition dries up, which hurts farmers as much as it drives up prices for consumers at the grocery store. At the same time, the shortage of USDA certified processing facilities in our region makes it difficult to meet growing demand for customers who want to buy local. For that reason, we are grateful to Sen. Schumer for leading the Family Grocery and Farmer Relief Act. By investing in local processing capacity, encouraging competition, and helping level the playing field, this legislation has the potential to strengthen farms like Becken, support local butchers, and deliver real relief for families across Western New York."
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Original text here: https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/as-western-ny-sees-record-high-grocery-costs-schumer-announces-landmark-legislation-to-break-up-the-meatpacking-monopolies-help-farmers-and-drive-down-cost-of-meat-for-families
Artificial Intelligence: Uses and Risks for Small Business Contracting and Innovation Research
WASHINGTON, May 4 (TNSLrpt) -- The Government Accountability Office issued the following report:
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Artificial Intelligence: Uses and Risks for Small Business Contracting and Innovation Research
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Fast Facts
This Q&A report looks at how the Small Business Administration, agencies' small business contracting offices, and federal innovation research programs might use AI.
For example, agencies could use AI to analyze data, do market research, draft mandated reports, and help prevent fraud. But these potential uses also carry risks, e.g., inaccurate outputs, data security concerns, or biased
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, May 4 (TNSLrpt) -- The Government Accountability Office issued the following report:
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Artificial Intelligence: Uses and Risks for Small Business Contracting and Innovation Research
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Fast Facts
This Q&A report looks at how the Small Business Administration, agencies' small business contracting offices, and federal innovation research programs might use AI.
For example, agencies could use AI to analyze data, do market research, draft mandated reports, and help prevent fraud. But these potential uses also carry risks, e.g., inaccurate outputs, data security concerns, or biasedoutcomes.
SBA is required to publicly report on specific scenarios in which it has used AI-including how it was designed, developed, and procured-which it hasn't consistently done.
We recommended establishing policies to ensure SBA reports on its AI use as required.
A computer with document icons indicating the use of AI floating above the keyboard and on a tablet.
Highlights
What GAO Found
The use of artificial intelligence (AI) could help federal agencies carry out key activities in federal small business contracting and research programs, according to a panel of experts convened by GAO. Examples of such activities include conducting market research, reviewing proposals, and preventing fraud. The Small Business Administration (SBA), which coordinates agencies' Offices of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization and oversees agencies' Small Business Innovation Research and Technology Transfer programs, also could use AI to support activities such as analyzing data submitted by agencies and helping to draft annual reports.
But these potential AI uses also carry risks, including inaccurate outputs and data privacy or security concerns, according to experts and literature. Agencies also may face barriers in adopting AI, including lack of staff with technical expertise and a cumbersome process for authorizing new technologies.
Prior to 2025, SBA had a number of AI use cases-specific scenarios in which AI is designed, developed, procured, or used-in various stages of adoption. In March 2025, SBA paused all AI use to review compliance with recent executive orders and reflect updated agency priorities. SBA officials stated that AI use will restart after revised AI policies are implemented. As of April 2026, SBA officials told us that AI policies were still being revised and that the pause remained in effect, except for seven pilot or pre-pilot projects to test the security, value, and performance of different AI capabilities.
SBA has not consistently met requirements for publicly reporting AI use cases. SBA reported its first inventory of its AI use cases in March 2026, but requirements to do so have been in development since 2020. SBA officials said they could not determine why inventories had not been published, citing a lack of documentation and turnover among staff responsible for AI reporting.
Federal Agency AI Use Case Reporting Requirements and SBA Actions
Without policies and procedures for publicly publishing its AI use case inventory, SBA may continue to risk not complying with the Advancing American AI Act. Not reporting AI use cases also hinders transparency and congressional and public oversight of AI use cases.
Why GAO Did This Study
AI has seen significant advancements in recent years, with new capabilities and risks emerging at a rapid pace, and federal agencies have increasingly adopted its use. Small business contracting and innovation grants-areas coordinated or overseen by SBA-have drawn particular interest from industry, academia, and government as an area with potential applications for AI.
GAO was asked to review issues related to federal use of AI in small business contracting and innovation grants. This report discusses the potential use of AI by SBA, agency Offices of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization, and Small Business Innovation Research and Technology Transfer programs, as well as SBA's public reporting of its AI use.
To conduct this work, GAO reviewed federal agency documentation and literature on AI and procurement and interviewed officials from SBA, the Department of the Army, the Department of Homeland Security, the Office of Personnel Management, and the National Science Foundation, selected because they had experience using AI relevant to contracting or innovation grants. GAO also convened a panel of experts with specializations in AI technology, federal AI use, and federal procurement.
Recommendations
GAO is recommending that SBA establish policies and procedures for meeting applicable reporting requirements for AI use case inventories, including defining roles and responsibilities, and documenting the implementation of policies, procedures, and key decisions. SBA agreed with the recommendation.
Recommendations for Executive Action
Agency Affected Recommendation Status
Small Business Administration The Administrator of SBA should ensure that the Chief Information Officer establishes policies and procedures for meeting the agency's applicable reporting requirements for AI use case inventories, including defining roles and responsibilities, and for documenting the implementation of policies and procedures and key decisions. (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.
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Original text here: https://www.gao.gov/products/gao-26-107828
Amata Highlights Teacher Appreciation Week
WASHINGTON, May 4 (Rep.) -- Del. Aumua Amata Radewagen, R-American Samoa, issued the following news release:
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Amata Highlights Teacher Appreciation Week
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Washington, D.C. - Congresswoman Uifa'atali Amata is thanking teachers at the start of Teacher Appreciation Week, May 4-8, and released the following statement.Congresswoman Amata with 2025 Teacher of the Year Mikaela Saelua and her parents Rep Fiu and Catherine Saelua (002)
"Thank you so much to all our dedicated teachers. I am usually able to attend most of our graduations, and I'm always so appreciative of everyone that makes those
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, May 4 (Rep.) -- Del. Aumua Amata Radewagen, R-American Samoa, issued the following news release:
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Amata Highlights Teacher Appreciation Week
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Washington, D.C. - Congresswoman Uifa'atali Amata is thanking teachers at the start of Teacher Appreciation Week, May 4-8, and released the following statement.Congresswoman Amata with 2025 Teacher of the Year Mikaela Saelua and her parents Rep Fiu and Catherine Saelua (002)
"Thank you so much to all our dedicated teachers. I am usually able to attend most of our graduations, and I'm always so appreciative of everyone that makes thosejoyful days possible for our students and parents each year. Many of us can look to back to an excellent teacher who made a difference in our lives, and the teacher often does not even realize the potentially life-changing impact they are making at the time. Teaching can often be a calling or a life's work, and the best teachers have a special ability to explain their topic, recognize the efforts of young people, and often keep a lifelong youthful sense of humor or zeal from spending days around our youth.
"I will always support federal investment in education, school infrastructure, and technology. Our students deserve the best start in life we can give them and then opportunities to consider higher education possibilities. The Members of Congress from the Pacific territories have a bill to establish in-state tuition opportunities for islanders going to universities, and here at home, I've obtained a $3 million designation for ASCC with the increases to the ASG/OIA operations fund. The 2027 appropriations process has just begun and I will keep you informed on the next round of funding.
"This week, we want our teachers to know our respect, appreciation, and love!"
Issues : Education
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Original text here: https://radewagen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/amata-highlights-teacher-appreciation-week-2
Amata Highlights 75th National Day of Prayer
WASHINGTON, May 4 (Rep.) -- Del. Aumua Amata Radewagen, R-American Samoa, issued the following news release:
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Amata Highlights 75th National Day of Prayer
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Washington, D.C. - Congresswoman Uifa'atali Amata released the following statement in honor and observance of the 75th National Day of Prayer:American Samoa's firefighters in prayer
"The National Day of Prayer is a meaningful continuous 75-year tradition, with instances of proclaimed days of prayer before that. This year's theme is Glorify God Among the Nations - Seeking Him in All Generations, which is based on I Chronicles 16:24.
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, May 4 (Rep.) -- Del. Aumua Amata Radewagen, R-American Samoa, issued the following news release:
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Amata Highlights 75th National Day of Prayer
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Washington, D.C. - Congresswoman Uifa'atali Amata released the following statement in honor and observance of the 75th National Day of Prayer:American Samoa's firefighters in prayer
"The National Day of Prayer is a meaningful continuous 75-year tradition, with instances of proclaimed days of prayer before that. This year's theme is Glorify God Among the Nations - Seeking Him in All Generations, which is based on I Chronicles 16:24.This verse states, 'Declare His glory among the nations, His wonders among all peoples.'
"Since 1952, the National Day of Prayer has been designated yearly by Congress, now observed consistently the first Thursday of May, and marked annually by a presidential proclamation. It is a special call to pray in unity for the country's future, for peace, while expressing gratitude to God for our freedoms and blessings.
"In American Samoa, we are always a people of prayer and faith. On Thursday, we gladly join millions across the United States in refreshing our prayers and uniting our hearts in seeking God in our generation, and God's glory among the nations.
"As we voice our own prayers and thankfulness, shaped by diverse lives, families, and churches, we can come together in prayers for God's care in our nation and world, wisdom for leaders, peace for our young people's lives, along with freedom, joy, and purpose.
"We pray for our own people of American Samoa, our decisions here, and especially the safety of our men and women in the Armed Forces. As we observe the 2026 National Day of Prayer, may God bless American Samoa and the United States."
Issues : Culture
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Original text here: https://radewagen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/amata-highlights-75th-national-day-prayer
'Outrageous and Needlessly Cruel': Pingree Statement on Kennedy Center Firing Union Members
WASHINGTON, May 4 -- Rep. Chellie Pingree, D-Maine, issued the following news release:
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'Outrageous and Needlessly Cruel': Pingree Statement on Kennedy Center Firing Union Members
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Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-Maine), Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee that oversees the Kennedy Center, released the following statement after the Center reportedly fired staff who are members of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) union:
The Kennedy Center's decision to fire 24 people-in clear violation of their union contracts-is totally outrageous,
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, May 4 -- Rep. Chellie Pingree, D-Maine, issued the following news release:
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'Outrageous and Needlessly Cruel': Pingree Statement on Kennedy Center Firing Union Members
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Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-Maine), Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Subcommittee that oversees the Kennedy Center, released the following statement after the Center reportedly fired staff who are members of the International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) union:
The Kennedy Center's decision to fire 24 people-in clear violation of their union contracts-is totally outrageous,alarmingly shortsighted, and needlessly cruel to these dedicated employees and their families.
Sadly, these firings are part and parcel of a broader pattern of incompetence and poor decision-making exhibited by the Center's leadership since Trump installed himself as Chairman more than a year ago. From illegally trying to rename the Center after himself, to driving away countless artists and performers and audience members-resulting in needing to close down the facility for two years-Trump has done profound damage to this iconic institution and weakened the Center's ability to fulfill its public mission. Using that closure as a pretense to fire dozens of workers is truly reprehensible.
I strongly urge the Center's leadership to rethink this rash decision, honor their contractual commitments, and do right by these workers and their families.
I stand in solidarity with the 24 people whose livelihoods have just been upended and will do everything in my power to ensure they're treated with the dignity and fairness they deserve.
Pingree, who is co-chair of the bipartisan Congressional Arts Caucus, has led the charge in Congress to save the Kennedy Center from Trump after he took it over last year. Pingree demanded answers and transparency from Richard Grenell, a Trump ally who was installed as President of the Kennedy Center, about how the $256 million requested, and later approved in the "One Big Beautiful Bill", would be spent.
In December, Pingree led more than 70 Members of Congress in calling on President Trump to reverse the illegal renaming effort and remove his name from the building.
As Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies Subcommittee, Pingree successfully removed language from the 2026 Appropriations bill that would have renamed the Opera House after Melania Trump.
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Original text here: https://pingree.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=6769
