Stories by H. B. Edwards on Federal Newswire


Sanders releases report on Education Department layoffs and student civil rights cases

Senator Bernie Sanders released a new report criticizing layoffs at the Education Department's Office for Civil Rights under the Trump administration. The report finds significant declines in resolutions for student discrimination cases across multiple categories.


Chairman Comer commends DOJ for action against Dr. Morens over COVID-19 records

House Oversight Chairman James Comer praised federal prosecutors after charges were filed against Dr. David Morens regarding alleged efforts to hide COVID-19 origin documents. The indictment follows findings by Congress's coronavirus subcommittee.


New Mexico lawmakers urge halt to Chaco Canyon drilling plan reversal

New Mexico's congressional delegation has urged federal officials not to allow new drilling near Chaco Culture National Historical Park. Lawmakers argue such actions would threaten sacred tribal lands without proper consultation or environmental review.


House Energy and Commerce Committee announces three subcommittee hearings for late April 2026

The House Energy and Commerce Committee is holding three subcommittee hearings this week covering environmental protection agency funding, AI-driven power demand legislation, and FDA food oversight. The committee has a long history influencing national policy across several sectors.


House Education and Workforce Committee to hold Indiana hearing on mining industry future

The House Education and Workforce Committee will hold a field hearing in Fort Branch, Indiana on May 8 about mining's future. The event will discuss worker protection issues within the industry. It will be open to press attendance with live streaming available.


Comer and Timmons investigate national security risks in research sharing with China

House Oversight leaders James Comer and William Timmons have launched an investigation into gaps in monitoring science agreements between U.S. agencies and China due to concerns over national security risks posed by these collaborations.


House Oversight Committee schedules markup on bills to address federal program fraud

Chairman James Comer announced a full committee markup session set for April 29 focused on legislation targeting rampant federal program fraud through new prevention measures, accountability structures, training requirements, improved payment controls, expanded audits, and enhanced data access.


Energy producers support bill to repeal federal building fossil fuel restrictions

American energy producers have voiced support for H.R.4690—a bill aimed at repealing restrictions on fossil fuel use in new or renovated federal buildings by 2030—citing concerns over cost and reliability impacts if current rules remain unchanged.


House committee leaders introduce bills to address fraud in federal programs

House committee chairmen Jodey Arrington and James Comer have introduced two bills targeting fraud prevention in federal programs. The proposed legislation aims at stopping improper payments before they occur through new oversight measures.


House passes HEATS Act to clarify geothermal energy permitting on non-federal lands

The U.S. House passed a bill clarifying rules for geothermal projects on non-federal land. Supporters say it will cut red tape and reduce costs while maintaining royalties paid to government.


Durbin criticizes Senate Republicans for approving $140 billion for ICE and Border Patrol

Senator Dick Durbin criticized Senate Republicans after they approved up to $140 billion for ICE and Border Patrol operations. He argued this move prioritizes presidential wishes over pressing economic concerns faced by Americans. The decision comes amid blocked Democratic efforts on cost-reducing amendments.


Cassidy and Banks introduce INSIGHT Act to increase transparency in retirement plan investigations

Senators Bill Cassidy and Jim Banks have introduced new legislation aimed at increasing transparency in federal investigations related to employer-provided retirement plans. The INSIGHT Act would require more detailed reporting from federal agencies overseeing these plans while seeking bipartisan support.


Merkley criticizes Senate Republicans' budget resolution for FY 2026

Senator Jeff Merkley criticized Senate Republicans for passing a budget resolution he says overlooks working families. The plan allocates up to $140 billion for immigration enforcement agencies while blocking amendments aimed at lowering living costs.


Senate Republicans pass budget resolution to fund immigration agencies and end shutdown

Senate Republicans advanced a budget resolution on Apr. 23 aimed at restoring full funding for key immigration enforcement agencies after a prolonged partial government shutdown. Chairman Chuck Grassley said this move seeks both border security improvements and an end to partisan gridlock over Department of Homeland Security funds.


Chairman Comer introduces bills to address fraud in federal programs

Chairman James Comer has introduced two new bills targeting fraud prevention in federal benefit payments following recent investigations into misuse within state-run social service programs. The proposed laws aim at stopping improper payments before funds are distributed.


Senate Republicans propose up to $140 billion for ICE and CBP amid unused funds

Senate Republicans aim to allocate up to $140 billion more for ICE and CBP despite over $100 billion in previously unused funds. Senator Jeff Merkley has criticized this move amid calls for broader support for working families.


Chairman Kelly calls for action to revitalize U.S. shipbuilding and maritime industry

Chairman Trent Kelly called attention on Apr. 22 to urgent issues facing U.S. shipbuilding during a congressional hearing. He urged greater government involvement through initiatives like the SHIPS Act while highlighting current gaps compared with international competitors.


House passes FIRE Act to reform Clean Air Act wildfire emission rules

The House passed H.R. 6387—the FIRE Act—to reform how federal rules treat wildfire-related emissions under the Clean Air Act. Supporters say this will help states avoid penalties for uncontrollable pollution while encouraging proactive fire prevention measures.


Senators urge end to Chinese visa waiver in Northern Mariana Islands

A group of U.S. senators has asked federal officials to end a policy allowing short-term visa-free entry for Chinese citizens into Northern Mariana Islands territory. They cite national security risks including drug trafficking and proximity to key military assets.


Senators voice concerns over Forest Service reorganization announced in March

A group of U.S. Senators led by Amy Klobuchar has raised concerns about a planned reorganization of the U.S. Forest Service that they say could hurt staffing levels and critical research work. The lawmakers are seeking answers from officials before May.