U.S. Congress
Here's a look at documents from all members of the U.S. House and the U.S. Senate
Featured Stories
Appropriations Committee Advances Second Spending Bill, Strong Provisions for North Alabama Postal Service Audit and Consideration of Skyline Zip Code
WASHINGTON, April 22 -- Rep. Dale W. Strong, R-Alabama, issued the following news release:
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Appropriations Committee Advances Second Spending Bill, Strong Provisions for North Alabama Postal Service Audit and Consideration of Skyline Zip Code
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WASHINGTON - Congressman Dale Strong, a member of the House Appropriations Committee, secured two key provisions for North Alabama in the Fiscal Year 2027 Financial Services and General Government appropriations bill, which passed out of the committee on Wednesday.
The first provision directs the United States Postal Service (USPS) Office of Inspector
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, April 22 -- Rep. Dale W. Strong, R-Alabama, issued the following news release:
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Appropriations Committee Advances Second Spending Bill, Strong Provisions for North Alabama Postal Service Audit and Consideration of Skyline Zip Code
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WASHINGTON - Congressman Dale Strong, a member of the House Appropriations Committee, secured two key provisions for North Alabama in the Fiscal Year 2027 Financial Services and General Government appropriations bill, which passed out of the committee on Wednesday.
The first provision directs the United States Postal Service (USPS) Office of InspectorGeneral (OIG) to evaluate delivery performance, staffing levels, and operational bottlenecks in areas with ongoing service issues, including North Alabama.
"Families, small businesses, and seniors depend on timely, reliable mail delivery, whether it's for receiving medication, paying bills, or managing daily commerce. This audit brings accountability and oversight to the Postal Service by identifying systemic failures and ensuring it implements the necessary changes to improve reliability and efficiency," said Congressman Strong.
"Since coming to Congress, I've heard my constituents' concerns regarding the lack of reliable mail service. I remain concerned about the negative impacts of consolidation, including degraded mail service, declining customer satisfaction, and cost overruns," said Strong. "This audit is about getting clear answers and making sure the Postal Service delivers the level of service our communities expect."
Strong also secured a second provision directing USPS to continue its internal review of cases where ZIP codes overlap municipal boundaries, resulting in multiple or incorrect city designations.
While the original review included Priceville, Alabama, this provision requires an updated report that includes an analysis for consideration of a unique ZIP code designation for Skyline, Alabama.
These efforts build on Congressman Strong's persistent and sustained work to address delivery delays and strengthen mail service across North Alabama, including pushing for a new post office in the 35763 ZIP Code, advocating for a North Alabama-based processing and distribution facility, requiring reviews and consideration of designating unique ZIP Codes for Priceville and Skyline, and securing prior directives that mandate USPS review consolidation impacts and improve service reliability.
The Fiscal Year 2027 Financial Services and General Government appropriations bill now heads to the full U.S. House of Representatives for consideration.
BACKGROUND:
The Fiscal Year 2027 Financial Services and General Government bill is one of twelve annual appropriations bills. The bill funds the Department of the Treasury, the Executive Office of the President, the Federal Judiciary, the District of Columbia, and more than 20 independent Commissions, Departments, and Agencies.
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Original text here: https://strong.house.gov/media/press-releases/appropriations-committee-advances-second-spending-bill-strong-provisions-north
Ansari Submits Nearly $44 Million in FY27 Community Project Funding Requests for AZ-03
WASHINGTON, April 22 -- Rep. Yassamin Ansari, D-Arizona, issued the following news release:
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Ansari Submits Nearly $44 Million in FY27 Community Project Funding Requests for AZ-03
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WASHINGTON - Today, Representative Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03) announced that she submitted funding requests for 20 community projects in Arizona's Third Congressional District totaling $43,779,000.
"These 20 projects meet the critical needs of Arizona's Third District, totaling over $43 million in requested federal funding with investments ranging from public safety and infrastructure to workforce development,
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, April 22 -- Rep. Yassamin Ansari, D-Arizona, issued the following news release:
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Ansari Submits Nearly $44 Million in FY27 Community Project Funding Requests for AZ-03
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WASHINGTON - Today, Representative Yassamin Ansari (AZ-03) announced that she submitted funding requests for 20 community projects in Arizona's Third Congressional District totaling $43,779,000.
"These 20 projects meet the critical needs of Arizona's Third District, totaling over $43 million in requested federal funding with investments ranging from public safety and infrastructure to workforce development,healthcare, and innovation," said Rep. Ansari. "I look forward to getting these projects over the finish line for our communities, and ensuring every federal dollar delivers real results for Arizona communities."
Submitting Community Project Funding requests is the process by which Members of Congress can request funding for specific projects in their district in annual funding bills. Which projects get funded, and the level at which they are funded, is at the discretion of the House Appropriations Committee.
SUPPORT FROM THE COMMUNITY
"Valle del Sol is grateful to Congresswoman Ansari for her leadership in advancing these critical community projects. This funding will strengthen Valle del Sol's ability to deliver high-quality, culturally-aligned care and expand access to healthcare for families across Phoenix-particularly in the West Valley, where demand for services continues to grow. At a time when millions of Arizonans face uncertainty around access to care, our presence in the community is more important than ever. We look forward to continued partnership in advancing the health and well-being of communities across Arizona," said Mike Renaud, President & CEO of Valle Del Sol.
"ASU applauds Congresswoman Ansari and Congressman Stanton's leadership advancing these investments for Arizona. This is an important step towards innovating within key sectors of our economy-from critical mineral research to energy storage technologies-while supporting the workforce needed to sustain growth. These investments can help ensure Arizona's economy remains competitive, resilient, and well-positioned for the future," said Dr. Sally Morton, Executive Vice President of ASU's Knowledge Enterprise.
"The City of Glendale is grateful to Congresswoman Ansari for her partnership in advancing federal funding to assist in critical planning along one of our major roadways, Bethany Home Road. We are hopeful this funding will advance through the budget process," said Glendale Mayor Jerry P. Weiers.
"The City of Phoenix is grateful for Congresswoman Ansari's leadership in bringing federal resources back to our community. These investments play a vital role in supporting the city's strategic priorities, and we appreciate her commitment to helping Phoenix leverage federal dollars to meet the needs of our growing population," said Ed Zuercher, City of Phoenix City Manager.
"We are grateful to Representative Yassamin Ansari for championing this investment in Arizona's workforce. At the core of our mission is expanding access to opportunities for all students. This funding will allow us to meet students where they are-providing affordable, hands-on training in high-demand fields like advanced manufacturing and construction-so they can step directly into meaningful careers and contribute to the economic vitality of our community," said Grand Canyon University President Brian Mueller.
"Wesley Community & Health Center's is immensely grateful for Representative Ansari's selection of The Mary Rose Wilcox Center for Health Care and Innovation for submission to the House Appropriations Committee. This new facility will serve as a southern gateway into downtown Phoenix. It will catalyze the synergies of two premier non-profit agencies, downtown universities and businesses, the light rail expansion, and a vibrant community. It will greatly expand our patient capacity, the services available to the community and the learning opportunities for the next generation of healthcare healers. We are deeply gratified by the Congresswoman's support of our service to the community," said Blaine Bandi, Chief Executive Officer of Wesley Community & Health Center.
"Phoenix's hot season is getting longer and more dangerous. We know climate issues are a priority for Congresswoman Ansari and applaud her action in moving our Community Project Funding request forward to help protect our patients from the heat. A new, more efficient and reliable HVAC system, along with solar panel covered parking, will help keep our Gateway Clinic a safe, sustainable, and healthy refuge from the Arizona heat," said Dr. John Swagert, Mountain Park Health Center CEO.
"Axiom Community of Recovery is honored to be considered for this opportunity to expand innovative workforce development pathways for individuals in recovery. The Recovery Technology and Workforce Training Lab would combine digital skills training, immersive technology, and hands-on employment support to help people build stable futures and reconnect with meaningful work," said Nick Koury, Executive Director of Axiom Community of Recovery.
"We are deeply grateful to Congresswoman Ansari and her team for recognizing the THRIVE Licensing Model as a proven solution at the intersection of public safety and workforce development. This investment is not just about supporting a program-it's about building the infrastructure to scale what already works. Through this $2 million appropriation, we will pilot the THRIVE Licensing Model, transforming a model proven in Phoenix into a national resource that reduces recidivism, strengthens our workforce, and expands economic mobility. This is exactly what federal investment should do-back proven solutions and build the systems needed to scale them. We are proud this work begins in Arizona's 3rd District and can expand nationwide," said Alison Rapping, CEO of Arouet.
"Modernizing our video surveillance system is a direct investment in the safety and security of the tens of thousands of riders who depend on our service every day. We have made significant strides in improving the rider experience, and this funding will help us continue that progress. Valley Metro is appreciative of Congresswoman Ansari's ongoing support in championing safety and security initiatives across our regional system," said Valley Metro CEO Jessica Mefford-Miller.
"Broadway Farms will deliver high-quality, affordable homes to families who need them most. We are deeply grateful to Congresswoman Ansari for selecting this project as one of her Community Project Funding submissions to the House Appropriations Committee and for her steadfast advocacy in addressing Arizona's housing challenges head-on," said Juan Salgado, CEO of Phoenix IDA.
"On behalf of the men and women of the Arizona Fire & Medical Authority, we are humbled and grateful for Congresswoman Ansari's outstanding support and leadership in securing a much-needed fire engine for the Town of Guadalupe and surrounding communities. With her support, we will be able to sustain the delivery of critical emergency medical services and fire suppression throughout the region. Thank you!" said Mark Burdick, Fire Chief at Arizona Fire & Medical Authority.
ANSARI'S FY27 COMMUNITY FUNDING REQUESTS
Potential Recipient: Arizona Fire & Medical Authority
Project Name: Arizona Fire & Medical Authority Replacement of Frontline Fire Engine Apparatus Serving the Town of Guadalupe
Project Purpose: This project will replace the primary fire engine serving the Town of Guadalupe.
Financial disclosure and federal nexus letters can be found here.
Potential Recipient: Arizona State University
Project Name: Critical Mineral Reclamation
Project Purpose: For an applied research project that will improve recovery of critical minerals from waste streams that contain lithium, rare earth elements, cobalt, nickel, and copper that are essential to energy storage systems, semiconductor manufacturing, grid equipment, and defense technologies.
Financial disclosure and federal nexus letters can be found here.
Potential Recipient: Arizona State University
Project Name: Energy Innovation for Energy Independence
Project Purpose: This project will develop and demonstrate next-generation technologies that allow diverse energy sources and large power users to connect to the electric grid more efficiently and reliably.
Financial disclosure and federal nexus letters can be found here.
Potential Recipient: Arouet Foundation
Project Name: THRIVE Continuum: Workforce Innovation & Economic Mobility Infrastructure
Project Purpose: This is a one-year initiative replicating the THRIVE program, to provide workforce development training to formerly-incarcerated individuals.
Financial disclosure and federal nexus letters can be found here.
Potential Recipient: Axiom Community of Recovery
Project Name: RecoveryTech Workforce Lab
Project Purpose: This project establishes the Recovery Technology and Workforce Training Lab, an innovative workforce development facility designed to prepare justice-involved individuals and people in recovery for sustainable employment.
Financial disclosure and federal nexus letters can be found here.
Potential Recipient: City of Glendale
Project Name: Bethany Home Road Street Improvements Study
Project Purpose: To perform comprehensive planning and extensive public engagement to identify complete street improvements along Bethany Home Road between State Route 101 (SR-101) and 43rd Avenue and prepare the preliminary design for proposed improvements.
Financial disclosure and federal nexus can be found here.
Potential Recipient: City of Phoenix
Project Name: Central and Columbus Development Project
Project Purpose: The Central and Columbus Development Project will deliver a transit-oriented, mixed-use development in Midtown Phoenix. The project will include 250 units of affordable housing for households earning between 30 and 80 percent of Area Median Income.
Financial disclosure and federal nexus letters can be found here.
Potential Recipient: City of Phoenix
Project Name: Phoenix Fire Department Health Center Renovation and Update
Project Purpose: This project will upgrade and replace outdated medical equipment, update clinical and rehabilitation areas, and enhance the facility's capacity to deliver advanced diagnostic, treatment, and prevention services tailored to the specific risks associated with the fire service.
Financial disclosure and federal nexus letters can be found here.
Potential Recipient: City of Phoenix
Project Name: Innovation 27 Workforce and Education Training Center
Project Purpose: The Innovation 27 Workforce and Education Center will transform a long vacant facility into a modern workforce, education, and innovation hub that expands access to high-quality training for residents in an underserved area of Phoenix.
Financial disclosure and federal nexus letters can be found here.
Potential Recipient: City of Phoenix
Project Name: Maximizing Stormwater Benefits in the Salt River
Project Purpose: This project will install flow meters and monitor the data for 1 or 2 years at a minimum of 13 discrete stormwater outfalls and one low flow channel location in the Rio Salado Phoenix and Rio Salado Oeste reaches of the Salt River.
Financial disclosure and federal nexus letters can be found here.
Potential Recipient: City of Phoenix
Project Name: Rio Reimagined: 3rd Street Rio Salado Bicycle/Pedestrian Bridge
Project Purpose: This project will construct a bicycle and pedestrian bridge across the Rio Salado River along the 3rd Street alignment and add low-emitting solar pedestrian-scale lighting and pathway amenities between Central Avenue and 40th Street.
Financial disclosure and federal nexus can be found here.
Potential Recipient: Grand Canyon University
Project Name: Center for Workforce Development Equipment Request
Project Purpose: The Center for Workforce Development Advanced Manufacturing Equipment Project will support standards-related research and technology training through the purchase and installation of industry-standard equipment for pipe forming, bending, and precision fabrication to expand training capacity for students pursuing careers in manufacturing and skilled trades.
Financial disclosure and federal nexus letters can be found here.
Potential Recipient: Mountain Park Health Center
Project Name: Mountain Park Health Center Gateway Clinic Update
Project Purpose: This project is for essential updates to Mountain Park Health Center's Gateway Clinic.
Financial disclosure and federal nexus letters can be found here.
Potential Recipient: Phoenix Industrial Development Authority
Project Name: Phase II of the Broadway Farms Affordable Housing Infrastructure and Canal Improvements Project
Project Purpose: This project is for canal infrastructure improvements required by Salt River Project (SRP) to unlock Broadway Farms Phase II: a 144-unit, 100% affordable housing community serving low- and moderate-income families in the Phoenix metropolitan area.
Financial disclosure and federal nexus letters can be found here.
Potential Recipient: Phoenix Police Department
Project Name: Arizona ICAC Digital Forensic Capacity and Technology Project
Project Purpose: This project will strengthen the Arizona Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force's digital forensic laboratory by investing in critical forensic software, hardware, and investigative technology training necessary to identify offenders, rescue victims, and reduce case backlogs in online child exploitation investigations.
Financial disclosure and federal nexus letters can be found here.
Potential Recipient: Valle del Sol
Project Name: Valle del Sol Midtown Telehealth and Infrastructure Equipment Modernization
Project Purpose: This project is for Valle del Sol's Midtown Phoenix Patient Engagement, Telehealth, and Workforce Training Center to fund critical healthcare infrastructure equipment and technology upgrades.
Financial disclosure and federal nexus letters can be found here.
Potential Recipient: Valle del Sol
Project Name: Valle del Sol South Phoenix Health Center Renovation and Equipment Project
Project Purpose: This project is for improvements to Valle del Sol's South Phoenix Health Center to expand access to integrated primary care, behavioral health, pharmacy, and preventive health services for medically underserved populations in Maricopa County.
Financial disclosure and federal nexus letters can be found here.
Potential Recipient: Valle del Sol
Project Name: Valle del Sol West Phoenix Health Center Renovation and Capacity Expansion Project
Project Purpose: This project will expand and renovate Valle del Sol's West Phoenix 502 Health Center, increasing the facility from 3,193 square feet to approximately 8,000 square feet to significantly increase healthcare capacity in a high-need community.
Financial disclosure and federal nexus letters can be found here.
Potential Recipient: Valley Metro
Project Name: Valley Metro VSS Camera Modernization and Upgrades
Project Purpose: This project funding will advance Valley Metro's video surveillance system (VSS) capabilities across its rail system, helping to modernize the VSS system through replacing obsolete cameras.
Financial disclosure and federal nexus letters can be found here.
Potential Recipient: Wesley Community Centers Inc.
Project Name: Mary Rose Wilcox Center for Healthcare and Innovation
Project Purpose: This project is to build out the Wesley Community Centers Inc.'s Mary Rose Wilcox Center for Healthcare and Innovation's dental clinic.
Financial disclosure and federal nexus letters can be found here.
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Original text here: https://ansari.house.gov/media/press-releases/ansari-submits-nearly-44-million-in-fy27-community-project-funding-requests-for-az-03
Amata Welcomes Maternal and Child Health Services Grant
WASHINGTON, April 22 (Rep.) -- Del. Aumua Amata Radewagen, R-American Samoa, issued the following news release:
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Amata Welcomes Maternal and Child Health Services Grant
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Washington, D.C. - Congresswoman Uifa'atali Amata is pleased to welcome notice of a health services grant for maternal and child health care services.Dr. Anaise Uso in Congresswoman Amata's office just last month in a health delegation to DC with Dr. Aifili John Tufa
This is a discretionary grant of $176,281 for the American Samoa Department of Health (ASDOH) from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, April 22 (Rep.) -- Del. Aumua Amata Radewagen, R-American Samoa, issued the following news release:
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Amata Welcomes Maternal and Child Health Services Grant
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Washington, D.C. - Congresswoman Uifa'atali Amata is pleased to welcome notice of a health services grant for maternal and child health care services.Dr. Anaise Uso in Congresswoman Amata's office just last month in a health delegation to DC with Dr. Aifili John Tufa
This is a discretionary grant of $176,281 for the American Samoa Department of Health (ASDOH) from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)through the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA), as part of a three-year project period already under way.
"Thank you to Dr. Anaise Uso for her work ensuring ASDOH receives this grant and especially for her efforts and leadership of the medical services to care for our mothers, babies and young children," said Congresswoman Amata. "Thank you as always to all our medical professionals for providing healthcare for our people."
ASDOH is led by Director Dr. Saipale Fuimaono under the administration of Governor Pulaali'i Nikolao Pula and Lt. Gov. Pulumataala Ae Ae, Jr., and in Washington, D.C., HHS is led by Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., and HRSA by Administrator Thomas Engels.
Issues : Healthcare
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Original text here: https://radewagen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/amata-welcomes-maternal-and-child-health-services-grant
Amata Highlights Arbor Day 2026
WASHINGTON, April 22 (Rep.) -- Del. Aumua Amata Radewagen, R-American Samoa, issued the following news release:
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Amata Highlights Arbor Day 2026
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Washington, D.C. - Congresswoman Uifa'atali Amata is highlighting Arbor Day, which promotes the planting of trees, and widely emphasizes the value and benefits of trees, such as their role in oxygen, human health, food sources, wildlife habitat, and ecology.A view of the green mountainsides of Tutuila from 2019 - photo by Congresswoman Amata's office
"We are blessed in our beautiful islands with lots of plant life and our land is green from
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, April 22 (Rep.) -- Del. Aumua Amata Radewagen, R-American Samoa, issued the following news release:
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Amata Highlights Arbor Day 2026
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Washington, D.C. - Congresswoman Uifa'atali Amata is highlighting Arbor Day, which promotes the planting of trees, and widely emphasizes the value and benefits of trees, such as their role in oxygen, human health, food sources, wildlife habitat, and ecology.A view of the green mountainsides of Tutuila from 2019 - photo by Congresswoman Amata's office
"We are blessed in our beautiful islands with lots of plant life and our land is green fromshore to shore with our tropical rainforest," said Congresswoman Amata. "We have plenty of fruit, coconut and other trees that provide some of the island foods we love for us and our islands' wildlife. This week's Earth Day and Arbor Day are wonderful times to pause and notice our trees and vegetation and be thankful. In other places, the goals of Arbor Day are incredibly important to restoring forests, stewarding the land, or recovering from wildfire damages, so we want to be part of championing these efforts. Here in American Samoa, along with our abundance, we have to contend with major storms, slides, heavy rainfall, and wave erosion. Arbor Day is always an excellent class project or opportunity to take care of our surroundings, and look to the future."
The Roots of Arbor Day
Arbor Day began in 1872, starting in Nebraska, where the countryside was grassland, part of the U.S. "Great Plains." Farmers and residents knew they would benefit from nearby trees for shelter and shade, and needed lumber for building and survival in their cold weather state. Soon, their "plant a tree" message developed and spread. That common sense goal reached other states, gaining the backing of newspapers, official proclamations by governors and legislatures, leading to volunteers, classroom projects, and the current focus.
"My friend Natural Resources Committee Chairman Bruce Westerman of Arkansas is the only forester by profession in Congress," Amata concluded. "We oversee the U.S. National Forest Service, and related efforts from the National Park Service and Fish and Wildlife Service. In this Committee, I've had the opportunity to support bills encouraging planting millions of trees, supporting sapling nurseries, reforestation efforts, and wildfire defenses in the Western United States where our firefighters have responded repeatedly. Thank you again to our dedicated firefighting professionals this Arbor Day."
The righteous shall flourish like the palm tree: he shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon. Psalm 92:12
Issues : Natural Resources
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Original text here: https://radewagen.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/amata-highlights-arbor-day-2026
After Kansas Tornadoes, Davids Demands Answers on Weather Service Failures Impacting Public Safety
WASHINGTON, April 22 -- Rep. Sharice Davids, D-Kansas, issued the following news release:
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After Kansas Tornadoes, Davids Demands Answers on Weather Service Failures Impacting Public Safety
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Today, Representative Sharice Davids demanded answers from the National Weather Service (NWS) following tornadoes that struck Kansas' Third District. Davids raised serious concerns about potential breakdowns in forecasting and warning systems that may have put Kansans at risk during last week's storms. Despite no reported fatalities, she emphasized that gaps in preparedness and response could lead
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, April 22 -- Rep. Sharice Davids, D-Kansas, issued the following news release:
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After Kansas Tornadoes, Davids Demands Answers on Weather Service Failures Impacting Public Safety
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Today, Representative Sharice Davids demanded answers from the National Weather Service (NWS) following tornadoes that struck Kansas' Third District. Davids raised serious concerns about potential breakdowns in forecasting and warning systems that may have put Kansans at risk during last week's storms. Despite no reported fatalities, she emphasized that gaps in preparedness and response could leadto devastating consequences in the future.
"The fact that Kansans avoided catastrophic loss in this instance does not excuse these breakdowns -it underscores how close we came, and what could happen if these failures continue," wrote Davids. "These irresponsible decisions at the NWS have direct, real-world consequences for the safety of communities across Kansas and the country. Kansans should not have to wonder whether the systems designed to protect them are fully operational when severe weather strikes."
Davids' demand follows reporting that multiple NWS offices in the region may not have conducted standard morning weather balloon launches on the day of the storms -a key tool used to assess atmospheric conditions and inform severe weather forecasts. Additionally, the Storm Prediction Center did not identify a tornado threat in a timely manner, and tornado watches were issued later than is typical.
Davids underscored that missing data and staffing shortages can directly impact forecasting accuracy, reducing warning times and increasing risk to communities in the path of severe weather.
This is not the first time Davids has raised concerns about staffing and operational capacity at the NWS. Last year, she pressed the administration for answers on workforce shortages and the agency's ability to maintain around-the-clock operations. After receiving no response for nearly ten months, Davids is now renewing her call for accountability following the recent storms.
In her letter, Davids requested a detailed response within 30 days on:
* Whether weather balloon launches were missing and why.
* Whether any missed data contributed to delays in issuing tornado watches.
* Current staffing vacancies across key NWS offices in the region.
* Overall staffing levels and hiring needs across the National Weather Service.
* And more.
A full copy of Davids' letter can be found here or below:
Dear Secretary Lutnick, Administrator Jacobs, and Director Graham,
I write following recent severe weather and EF-2 tornadoes with peak winds of 125 miles per hour that hit my home community, Kansas' Third District. While I am grateful there were no fatalities, that outcome should not obscure a more serious reality: Kansans were put at risk by failures in forecasting and warning systems that are meant to protect them.
In a state like Kansas, timely and accurate weather data is not optional -it is lifesaving.
Nearly a year ago, I raised concerns about staffing shortages and operational disruptions at the National Weather Service (NWS) following actions taken by this administration. I asked how you would maintain 24/7 operations, ensure consistent weather balloon launches, and preserve forecasting accuracy. After ten months, my office has received no response. Now, we are seeing the consequences.
Reporting indicates that on the morning of these storms, multiple NWS offices in the region did not conduct standard 7:00 a.m. weather balloon launches -a critical input for forecasting severe weather. Just hours before tornadoes touched down, the Storm Prediction Center identified no tornado threat in northeast Kansas. And the tornado watch for impacted areas was issued far later than normal -within an hour of touchdown.
Weather balloon data is essential to understanding atmospheric conditions in real time. When that data is missing -whether due to staffing shortages or operational decisions -forecasting accuracy suffers. When forecasting accuracy suffers, warning times shrink. And when warning times shrink, families are put in danger.
The fact that Kansans avoided catastrophic loss in this instance does not excuse these breakdowns -it underscores how close we came, and what could happen if these failures continue.
These irresponsible decisions at the NWS have direct, real-world consequences for the safety of communities across Kansas and the country. Kansans should not have to wonder whether the systems designed to protect them are fully operational when severe weather strikes.
My constituents deserve clear answers and immediate action to ensure this does not happen again. Therefore, I respectfully ask you to provide answers to the following questions within 30 days of receipt:
* Did stations in and around Kansas not launch morning weather balloons on April 13, 2026? If so, what was the reason for these missing launches?
* Did this lack of weather balloon launches contribute to a delayed tornado watch in northeast Kansas? If not, what do you attribute this delay to?
* Is the NWS implementing permanent changes to twice-a-day weather balloon launches? If so, how are you justifying this change in schedule?
* How often does the NWS launch supplemental midday weather balloons? Does the NWS have the resources and partnerships with relevant university programs to increase these supplemental launches?
* What current staff vacancies exist at the following NWS Weather Forecast Offices: Pleasant Hill, Topeka, Wichita, Springfield, Dodge City, Goodland, and Hastings?
* What is the current staffing level of the overall NWS? How many meteorology and forecasting positions is the Service looking to fill? How does the number of meteorologists and forecasters at the NWS compare today to April 20, 2024?
Kansans rely on the National Weather Service to provide timely, accurate warnings that save lives. The gaps we saw in this storm cannot become the new normal. I look forward to your prompt response.
Sincerely,
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Original text here: https://davids.house.gov/media/press-releases/after-kansas-tornadoes-davids-demands-answers-weather-service-failures
18 Minutes. 47 Minutes. A Troubling Pattern of Insider Trading That the Trump Administration Can't Explain.
WASHINGTON, April 22 -- Rep. Steven Horsford, D-Nevada, issued the following news release:
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18 Minutes. 47 Minutes. A Troubling Pattern of Insider Trading That the Trump Administration Can't Explain.
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WASHINGTON D.C. - Congressman Steven Horsford (NV-04) today pressed U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer at the Ways and Means Committee nearly a year since his last public hearing demanding answers on potential market manipulation and insider trading within the Donald Trump's Administration, that raises serious questions about market manipulation and potential insider trading including
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, April 22 -- Rep. Steven Horsford, D-Nevada, issued the following news release:
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18 Minutes. 47 Minutes. A Troubling Pattern of Insider Trading That the Trump Administration Can't Explain.
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WASHINGTON D.C. - Congressman Steven Horsford (NV-04) today pressed U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer at the Ways and Means Committee nearly a year since his last public hearing demanding answers on potential market manipulation and insider trading within the Donald Trump's Administration, that raises serious questions about market manipulation and potential insider trading includingmarket-moving tariff decisions, well-timed trades, and refunds still owed to American families after tariffs the Supreme Court has ruled illegal.
"18 minutes before last year's tariff pause announcement, traders placed enormous bets that the market would surge. And 47 minutes before the President's announcement on Iran negotiations, someone shorted the oil market by hundreds of millions of dollars." Rep. Horsford explained. "That is not coincidence. That is a pattern. And the only people with access to that information ahead of time are inside this Administration."
Congressman Horsford pointed to a broader trend in which tariff announcements and sudden reversals repeatedly moved markets, raising concerns about who may have had advance knowledge and the ability to profit.
"Ambassador Greer sat in that chair one year ago and said directly, 'No, this is not market manipulation.' But the truth is, there is now a clear pattern: tariffs are announced, markets move, a sudden reversal follows, and then the tariffs resume, over and over again." Rep. Horsford said. "Working families are left dealing with higher costs, while those with inside access may be cashing in. At minimum, this demands an investigation."
Congressman Horsford emphasized that tariffs imposed under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) functioned as a hidden tax on consumers driving up prices on everyday goods while the Supreme Court has since ruled those tariffs illegal.
"If families paid these tariffs at the checkout line, they deserve their money back plain and simple," Rep. Horsford said.
To deliver direct relief, Congressman Horsford introduced the RELIEF Act, which would automatically refund within 90 days, no application required, no red tape, and bureaucratic hurdles.
Earlier this year, Congressman Horsford led 131 Democrats demanding transparency around the Administration's "Liberation Day" raising concerns that someone may have benefited from advance knowledge of poly decisions. That letter is available here.
He also challenged the Administration's claims about trade "deals," noting that real agreements must be submitted to Congress.
"If these were real trade deals, Congress would have seen them," Rep. Horsford said. "What this Administration calls 'deals' are temporary, unenforceable, and one social media post away from disappearing. The American people deserve transparency, accountability and their money back."
Watch Congressman Horsford's full remarks here.
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Original text here: https://horsford.house.gov/media/press-releases/18-minutes-47-minutes-a-troubling-pattern-of-insider-trading-that-the-trump-administration-can-t-explain
'We Need to Get This Done': Reps. Garamendi, Kelly & Maritime, Labor Leaders Call for SHIPS Act to Revitalize Maritime Industry
WASHINGTON, April 22 -- Rep. John Garamendi, D-California, issued the following news release:
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'We Need to Get This Done': Reps. Garamendi, Kelly & Maritime, Labor Leaders Call for SHIPS Act to Revitalize Maritime Industry
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WASHINGTON, D.C. -Today, Congressman John Garamendi (D-CA-08), Ranking Member of the House Armed Services Readiness Subcommittee; Congressman Trent Kelly (R-MS-01), Chairman of the House Armed Services Seapower and Projection Forces Subcommittee, Matt Paxton, President of the Shipbuilders Council of America, and Brian Schoeneman, Chairman of USA Maritime, held a joint
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, April 22 -- Rep. John Garamendi, D-California, issued the following news release:
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'We Need to Get This Done': Reps. Garamendi, Kelly & Maritime, Labor Leaders Call for SHIPS Act to Revitalize Maritime Industry
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WASHINGTON, D.C. -Today, Congressman John Garamendi (D-CA-08), Ranking Member of the House Armed Services Readiness Subcommittee; Congressman Trent Kelly (R-MS-01), Chairman of the House Armed Services Seapower and Projection Forces Subcommittee, Matt Paxton, President of the Shipbuilders Council of America, and Brian Schoeneman, Chairman of USA Maritime, held a jointpress conference in support of the SHIPS for America Act to revitalize the maritime industry:
"Today, I am encouraged to see continued bipartisan consensus on the need to strengthen America's maritime industry. The SHIPS Act will do exactly that. We are committed to securing passage of this legislation and to continuing the vital work of revitalizing our maritime sector," said Congressman Garamendi. "Today's hearing on shipbuilding is an encouraging sign of growing bipartisan momentum and interest in both revitalizing our nation's shipbuilding industry and advancing the SHIPS Act. For over a year, we have seen promising progress, reflected in a growing coalition of supporters both on and off Capitol Hill, and we are confident that we can usher in a new era for American workers, shipbuilders, and our national security. I thank Chair Trent Kelly and the leadership on the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Seapower and Projection Forces, as well as the House Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation for arranging this critical hearing."
"We are a great nation because we are a great maritime nation. But for years, we've fallen behind in providing the maritime industry with the resources it needs. If we want to restore America's maritime strength, it will take robust investment in our shipbuilding industry in both military and commercial. We need to put more American-built ships in the water-ships that carry goods, support our economy, and strengthen our security. We also must maintain those ships and ensure we have the workforce to crew and support U.S.-flagged vessels with American workers," said Congressman Kelly. "We must push Congress, the Administration, industry, and all stakeholders to get this bill across the finish line. Time is of the essence. We need to take decisive steps and get this done."
"American shipyards can and must build the fleet of the future right here at home, and the SHIPS for America Act is the catalyst we need to get us there," said Matt Paxton, President of the Shipbuilders Council of America. "By aligning a national maritime strategy with stable investment, this bipartisan legislation recognizes the national security impact of our industry and would allow us to effectively counter global distortions in the shipbuilding and ship repair markets. We have the momentum, the industry backing, and the urgency to restore American shipbuilding and ship repair, and we look forward to continuing our work with Rep. John Garamendi and Rep. Trent Kelly to see this critical mission through."
"The SHIPS for America Act represents the most meaningful maritime legislation in the last half century or more," said Brian Schoeneman, Chair of USA Maritime. "The critical need for a vibrant U.S. Merchant Marine and a revitalized American maritime industry is on display daily. We can't afford to wait any longer. It's time to get it done."
Representatives Garamendi and Kelly are co-authors of the SHIPS for America Act, comprehensive legislation designed to revitalize the United States' shipbuilding capacity and commercial maritime sector.
Since the introduction of the SHIPS for America Act in December, the urgency of strengthening the nation's shipbuilding capabilities has emerged as a matter of bipartisan priority. This focus has intensified following the USTR's findings regarding China's dominance in global shipbuilding, as well as President Trump's signing of a shipbuilding-related executive order and the subsequent release of the Administration's Maritime Plan.
Watch Rep. Kelly's remarks HERE, Rep. Garamendi's remarks HERE, and the full press conference HERE.
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Original text here: https://garamendi.house.gov/media/press-releases/we-need-get-done-reps-garamendi-kelly-maritime-labor-leaders-call-ships-act
