Stories by H. B. Edwards on Federal Newswire


Markey marks one year since Trump tariffs, calls for refunds to small businesses

Senator Edward J. Markey marked one year since former President Trump's global import tariffs were enacted. He called attention to their impact on U.S. small businesses despite a Supreme Court ruling striking them down earlier this year. Markey urged immediate refunds for affected companies.


Homeland Security Republicans warn of risks from ongoing DHS funding lapse

House Committee on Homeland Security Republicans raised concerns over an ongoing Department of Homeland Security funding lapse due to blocked appropriations legislation. Members cited workforce hardship as well as increased risk for public safety amid current threats facing America.


Burchett opens roundtable on deleting duplicative federal programs

Chairman Tim Burchett opened a roundtable discussing ways to eliminate duplicative federal programs. The event focused on government spending inefficiencies, fraud risks within welfare systems, and recommendations from oversight experts.


House subcommittee reviews bills to boost American energy production

A House subcommittee examined five new bills intended to boost U.S. energy output through streamlined regulations and expanded leasing options. Chairman Pete Stauber said these steps aim to secure long-term American energy leadership.


House subcommittee reviews bills on Alaska Native rights and water resources

A House subcommittee held a hearing March 26 about new bills affecting Alaska Native ivory sales rights, Montana's rural water systems, and national water research programs. Lawmakers discussed measures supporting tribal autonomy while investing in key infrastructure.


House subcommittee reviews bills to address illicit drug threats in the U.S.

Congressman Morgan Griffith led a hearing reviewing fourteen proposed bills targeting illicit drug threats across America. The measures focus on combating substances like fentanyl while supporting law enforcement efforts amid rising overdose rates.


Subcommittee chairmen deliver opening statements on Arctic security at hearing

Chairmen Carlos Giménez and August Pfluger gave opening statements at a hearing focused on U.S. security interests in the changing Arctic environment. They discussed Russian military expansion, Chinese investment activities, recent Coast Guard funding increases, ongoing challenges with readiness efforts—and called for improved coordination among stakeholders.


Chairman Arrington discusses reconciliation package on FOX News interview

House Budget Committee Chairman Jodey Arrington appeared on FOX News discussing plans for a second reconciliation package focused on national security issues. He highlighted past uses of reconciliation for major policy changes while emphasizing support for military operations abroad.


Senator Cassidy urges Congress to address challenges in college sports in new op-ed

Senator Bill Cassidy has called for Congressional action on college athletics reform following recent hearings with stakeholders. He warns against classifying student-athletes as employees due to potential negative impacts on smaller programs. The Senate HELP Committee will continue exploring solutions.


Senator Rick Scott receives editorial support for efforts on drug supply chain security

Senator Rick Scott received praise from an editorial in the Washington Reporter for his efforts addressing America's reliance on foreign-made pharmaceuticals. The article outlines recent actions led by Scott through hearings, bipartisan legislation, and committee oversight aimed at strengthening U.S. drug supply chains.


Rick Scott joins White House roundtable on drug supply chain and CLEAR LABELS Act

Senator Rick Scott joined a White House roundtable discussing ways to strengthen America's drug supply chain. He emphasized reducing reliance on foreign manufacturers through increased transparency measures like his proposed CLEAR LABELS Act.


House Budget Committee examines 3% deficit-to-GDP target at fiscal sustainability hearing

The House Budget Committee discussed setting a new benchmark for U.S. deficits during their Mar. 27 hearing. Experts addressed rising national debt concerns while lawmakers debated adopting a target limiting deficits at three percent of GDP.


Boozman supports President’s new policies for farmers and rural communities

Senator John Boozman voiced support for President Trump's new policies assisting American farmers. The announcement highlights continued federal focus on agricultural stability through tax cuts and aid packages. The Senate Agriculture Committee remains central in guiding U.S. agricultural policy.


Ranking Member Markey criticizes Department of Education policy on blind entrepreneurs

Ranking Member Edward J. Markey criticized new Department of Education limits affecting blind entrepreneurs’ access to military dining contracts under an established federal law. Advocates warn these changes could threaten jobs nationwide while questions remain about future protections.


Chairman Jordan subpoenas Virginia prosecutor over handling of threats against Stephen Miller

House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan has subpoenaed a Virginia prosecutor over her handling of threats against Stephen Miller and his family. The move follows concerns about political violence targeting public officials. The committee is reviewing whether changes are needed in federal law.


House leaders commit to implementing national artificial intelligence framework

House leaders announced plans to act on an artificial intelligence framework released by the Trump Administration. The move aims at strengthening U.S. leadership in AI while ensuring consumer protections.


Chairman Westerman welcomes U.S. Rep. Downing to House Natural Resources Committee

U.S. Rep. Troy Downing of Montana has been appointed to the House Committee on Natural Resources, according to Chairman Bruce Westerman's announcement on Mar. 26. Downing brings experience from prior legislative efforts involving land management and energy issues.


Senator Cassidy discusses college athletics reform during Senate HELP Committee hearing

Senator Bill Cassidy discussed potential reforms for college athletics at a recent Senate HELP Committee hearing. His remarks addressed both benefits for student-athletes receiving compensation and concerns about exploitation under current rules.


Cruz and Cantwell issue joint statement on ALERT Act markups in House committees

Senators Ted Cruz and Maria Cantwell issued a joint statement expressing concerns over limited aviation safety reforms adopted during recent markups of the ALERT Act by two key House committees. They highlighted differences between current proposals in Congress regarding mandatory adoption of advanced cockpit awareness technologies following last year's fatal midair collision near Reagan National Airport.


Durbin honors late Robert Mueller at Senate Judiciary Committee meeting

Senator Dick Durbin paid tribute to former FBI Director Robert Mueller during a recent Senate Judiciary Committee meeting. Durbin contrasted Mueller's legacy with current actions taken by FBI Director Kash Patel while highlighting concerns about changes within federal law enforcement.