News and reports from the .

Latest News


VA and Justice Department sign agreement to support vulnerable veterans’ care decisions

The Departments of Veterans Affairs and Justice have signed an agreement giving VA attorneys more authority to help vulnerable veterans make health care decisions. The move aims to improve access and transitions in medical care for those without family or legal representation.


VA expands technology to speed up community care appointment scheduling nationwide

The Department of Veterans Affairs has launched new technology across all facilities aimed at speeding up community care appointment scheduling. The system allows staff faster access and booking with participating providers, aiming for shorter wait times for veterans.


Deputy Secretary Landau to lead U.S. delegation to Chile for presidential inauguration

Deputy Secretary Christopher Landau will head a U.S. delegation attending President-elect José Antonio Kast's inauguration in Chile. The visit aims to strengthen bilateral relations and discuss key priorities such as security and trade.


State Department reports over 36,000 Americans evacuated from Middle East since late February

The U.S. Department of State says more than 36,000 American citizens have been evacuated from the Middle East since late February. Officials report that most requests for help were later declined as travelers found other ways home or chose to stay.


Afghanistan designated as state sponsor of wrongful detention by U.S. Secretary of State

The U.S. Secretary of State has designated Afghanistan as a State Sponsor of Wrongful Detention due to ongoing actions by the Taliban government. The announcement calls for an end to hostage diplomacy and urges Americans not to travel there.


State Department reports over 40,000 Americans evacuated from Middle East since late February

The U.S. Department of State says more than 40,000 Americans have been evacuated from the Middle East since late February. Charter flights continue despite low demand as most travelers choose commercial options or stay in place.


State Department reports over 43,000 Americans returned from Middle East since February

The U.S. Department of State says over 43,000 Americans have returned from the Middle East since late February. Officials report decreasing demand for charter flights as commercial options improve.


ICE requests Utah authorities not release accused in sexual assault case

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement has asked Utah officials not to release Conrrado Ahuexoteco Atrisco, who is charged with sexually assaulting a minor. DHS says his previous immigration case was marked as a non-enforcement priority in 2022.


ICE announces arrests of criminal illegal aliens charged with violent sex crimes

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement announced new arrests of criminal illegal aliens convicted of violent sex crimes across several states. The agency says these actions are part of ongoing efforts to protect public safety.


Subcommittee to hold hearing on federal workers’ compensation programs March 18

A congressional subcommittee led by Rep. Ryan Mackenzie will hold a hearing on March 18 about strengthening federal workers’ compensation programs. The session will focus on improving program integrity, efficiency, and access. The public can follow via livestream.


Ernst names Grant Ranch Grub & Pub as Small Business of the Week

Chair Joni Ernst has named Grant Ranch Grub & Pub as Small Business of the Week. The restaurant is recognized for its commitment to tradition and community service. The Senate Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee continues its work supporting small businesses nationwide.


Owens highlights need for employer-led training amid rise of artificial intelligence

At a recent hearing, Burgess Owens, Chairman of the Higher Education and Workforce Development Subcommittee, addressed the need for employer-led training as artificial intelligence becomes more integrated into workplaces.


Rep. King-Hinds discusses oversight concerns on federal real estate management

Rep. Kim King-Hinds (R-Northern Mariana Islands), a member of the Economic Development, Public Buildings, and Emergency Management Subcommittee, delivered opening remarks at a hearing focused on the future of federal real estate management and...


Congress examines state compliance failures on commercial driver’s licenses for undocumented immigrants

Subcommittee on Oversight, Investigations, and Accountability Chairman Josh Brecheen (R-OK) addressed public safety concerns at a hearing focused on the issuance of non-domiciled commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs) to individuals unlawfully...


House subcommittee reviews bills on tribal lands and jurisdiction

The Subcommittee on Indian and Insular Affairs held a legislative hearing to discuss three bills focused on Tribal land and jurisdictional issues.


Lawmakers examine Migratory Bird Treaty Act’s effects on industry and conservation

The Subcommittee on Water, Wildlife and Fisheries conducted an oversight hearing on the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) today.


Eight projects selected for pilot program testing next-generation aircraft in U.S. skies

Eight projects have been chosen by U.S. transportation officials for a new pilot program testing advanced air mobility technologies across 26 states. The initiative aims to gather data for future regulations as next-generation aircraft begin real-world operations by summer 2026.


FAA proposes $65,000 penalty against Avelo Airlines for testing violations

The Federal Aviation Administration has proposed a $65,000 fine against Avelo Airlines for allegedly failing to include certain employees in required drug and alcohol testing. The airline has 30 days to respond. The case underscores regulatory focus on aviation safety compliance.


ICE removes Ethiopian paramilitary member designated as terrorist to Ethiopia

ICE announced it has removed Solomon Bogale, an alleged member of Ethiopia's Fano group designated as a terrorist organization by its government. Officials say Bogale was denied immigration benefits after evidence linked him to calls for violence against ethnic Tigrayans.


CBP officers at Laredo Field Office ports apprehend fugitives wanted for homicide and sex offenses

U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers in Laredo recently arrested several fugitives wanted on serious felony charges including homicide and sex-related offenses. The agency credits biometric verification systems and interagency cooperation for these apprehensions.