News and reports from the .

A broad coalition including law enforcement groups and veterinary associations has urged the Senate Judiciary Committee to advance bipartisan legislation targeting illicit xylazine use. Supporters say classifying xylazine as a controlled substance will help combat rising threats while protecting legitimate veterinary needs.

Senators Collins and Murray release guidance for FY2027 appropriations requests

By R. C. Jamison | Mar 18, 2026

Senators Susan Collins and Patty Murray have issued new guidance for Fiscal Year 2027 appropriations requests. The guidelines outline procedures for programmatic funding and Congressionally Directed Spending items. The Senate Appropriations Committee continues its oversight of federal expenditures.

Kalkaska County man sentenced to seven years for fentanyl and heroin trafficking

By C. M. Ingle | Mar 18, 2026

A Rapid City man has been sentenced to seven years in prison for distributing fentanyl and heroin linked to a fatal overdose in Gaylord. Authorities say Robert Graham Ward continued selling drugs even after learning he was under federal investigation.

Senator Ricketts addresses Endangered Species Act challenges at EPW subcommittee hearing

Senator Pete Ricketts led a hearing examining how well the Endangered Species Act recovers endangered species. He raised concerns about low recovery rates while highlighting local conservation successes in Nebraska.

House Committee reviews 27 bills to reauthorize VA programs and services

By R. C. Jamison | Mar 18, 2026

The House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs has reviewed 27 bills aimed at updating Department of Veterans Affairs programs. Chairman Mike Bost said these changes could improve health care delivery and accountability for veterans nationwide.

Senate committee passes Blumenthal’s bills on toxic exposure and veterans’ benefits

The Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee unanimously advanced several bills led by Richard Blumenthal aimed at expanding research into birth defects among children of toxic-exposed veterans and strengthening support programs for all U.S. veterans. The legislation includes new provisions for emergency response readiness and expanded benefits.

Ohio man indicted on drug charges after fatal overdose in Lorain County

By F. E. Simons | Mar 18, 2026

A Lorain County man has been indicted on federal drug charges following an alleged fatal overdose tied to fentanyl-laced substances he distributed. Authorities say Roderick Cross Jr., who has prior felony convictions, faces enhanced sentencing if convicted.

Cowansville, Quebec man sentenced to 24 months for child sexual abuse material offense

By C. M. Ingle | Mar 18, 2026

A Quebec man has been sentenced to two years in prison after attempting to enter Vermont with child sexual abuse material on his phone. Authorities say border officers discovered hundreds of illicit videos and images during a routine inspection. The case is part of a broader federal effort against online child exploitation.

Lake City man pleads guilty to methamphetamine and firearm charges in federal court

Clayton Brown from Lake City pled guilty in Sioux City federal court to distributing methamphetamine and illegally possessing a firearm. Authorities seized drugs and cash during the investigation. Sentencing will be determined after further review.

House passes bill to protect lead ammo and tackle use on federal lands

The U.S. House has passed a bill aimed at protecting hunters' and anglers' ability to use lead ammunition and tackle on federal lands. Supporters say it balances conservation needs with continued public access.

Woodford County woman sentenced to 15 years for fentanyl trafficking in jail overdose case

A Versailles woman has been sentenced to 15 years in federal prison after distributing fentanyl inside a jail led to two overdoses. Authorities say Melissa Wilhoite smuggled drugs into Woodford County Detention Center following her arrest last November.

Durbin and Cortez Masto urge DHS to address DACA renewal delays in Senate letter

By R. C. Jamison | Mar 18, 2026

Senators Dick Durbin and Catherine Cortez Masto led a group urging DHS officials to speed up Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) renewal processing due to growing delays affecting recipients' stability. Their letter highlights risks such as job loss or deportation if renewals lapse.

Haverhill man charged with wire fraud for alleged investment scheme

By F. E. Simons | Mar 18, 2026

A Haverhill man faces federal wire fraud charges after allegedly misleading investors about cryptocurrency funds and losing their money. Prosecutors say Luciano Schipelliti provided false updates to investors before launching another fund that also failed.

Senators file amicus brief opposing Trump’s proposed monument on federal park land

Senators Martin Heinrich and Angus King have filed an amicus brief opposing former President Trump’s plan for a commemorative arch in Washington, D.C., arguing it requires congressional approval under federal law. The move supports ongoing legal efforts by veterans and experts challenging unilateral executive action over national monuments.

Cassidy and Tuberville release draft legislation to address child care fraud and protect families

Senators Bill Cassidy and Tommy Tuberville have introduced draft legislation targeting fraud in federal child care funding. The proposal seeks stronger oversight measures after investigations revealed issues in several states. Stakeholders are encouraged to provide feedback before April 8.

Houston man sentenced to federal prison for illegal firearm possession after traffic incident

Chase Langston Wiatt has been sentenced to over seven years in federal prison after being found unconscious behind the wheel with two firearms in his vehicle despite prior felony convictions. Authorities say he will remain in custody pending transfer.

House committee advances NOAA Weather Radio Modernization Act on March 18

The House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology has approved a bill to modernize NOAA's weather radio network. The legislation seeks to improve emergency alert coverage nationwide by updating equipment and expanding access in rural areas.

Markey criticizes Trump administration over fraud and transparency at Senate hearing

Senator Edward J. Markey criticized alleged fraud under the Trump administration during a Senate Small Business Committee hearing focused on transparency. He called for more oversight regarding operations at the Small Business Administration's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). The committee's role in shaping fiscal policy was also discussed.

DHS operation stops attempted smuggling of 15 people off Miami coast