Stories by H. B. Edwards on Federal Newswire


House subcommittee holds hearing on U.S. leadership in communications technology

A House subcommittee held a hearing focused on securing U.S. leadership in communications technology amid rising international competition from countries like China. Lawmakers discussed national security implications and emphasized faster coordination ahead of major global conferences.


House subcommittee examines hospital consolidation and health care costs in hearing

A House subcommittee led by Congressman Morgan Griffith held a hearing examining how hospital consolidation affects health care costs for Americans. Lawmakers discussed declining Medicare reimbursements and challenges facing rural providers. The House Energy and Commerce Committee's historical role was also highlighted.


Rep. Fong addresses security concerns over Chinese AI and robotics in House hearing

Rep. Vince Fong spoke at a House subcommittee hearing about security threats posed by Chinese artificial intelligence and robotics companies. He highlighted cases involving DeepSeek AI models and Unitree Robotics products as examples of potential risks to U.S. data security.


House leaders respond to White House release of federal AI framework

House Republican leaders responded after the White House released a federal artificial intelligence framework. They emphasized bipartisan cooperation for future AI legislation focused on innovation and consumer protection.


Durbin criticizes SAVE America Act and voter ID requirements in Senate speech

Senator Dick Durbin spoke against the SAVE America Act on March 20, arguing new voter ID requirements could prevent many Americans from registering. He cited studies showing millions lack required documents and compared costs for passports to a poll tax.


Senate passes resolution honoring leadership and legacy of Native women

The U.S. Senate has unanimously passed a bipartisan resolution honoring American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian women for their leadership during Women’s History Month. Senators Lisa Murkowski and Brian Schatz led the effort to recognize these women's contributions across various fields.


Bost and Bergman welcome $112 million for Fox Grant Program to aid veterans’ mental health

Chairman Mike Bost and Representative Jack Bergman announced their support for $112 million in new grants for veteran mental health programs. The funding will expand community-based services through the Staff Sergeant Parker Gordon Fox Suicide Prevention Grant Program.


House Energy and Commerce Committee seeks information on Potomac Interceptor sewer collapse

House Energy and Commerce leaders have requested information from Garney Companies about an unfinalized emergency repair contract related to a major Potomac Interceptor sewer collapse earlier this year. Lawmakers are investigating causes behind what is being called one of America's largest sewage spills.


Durbin criticizes Trump administration nominees at Senate Judiciary Committee meeting

Senator Dick Durbin criticized recent Trump Administration nominees during a Senate Judiciary Committee meeting on March 19. He raised concerns about qualifications and motives behind appointments like Colin McDonald for Assistant Attorney General. The committee plays an important role in overseeing federal law enforcement and judicial nominations.


House committee schedules hearing on foreign espionage in U.S. universities

The House Education and Workforce Committee will hold a hearing on March 26 about foreign espionage in U.S. universities. The session aims to address national security concerns related to stolen innovation.


Klobuchar introduces bipartisan bills to address rising fertilizer costs for farmers

Senator Amy Klobuchar has introduced bipartisan legislation with Senators John Thune and Roger Marshall to address rising fertilizer costs facing American farmers. The proposed bills aim to increase price transparency and expand domestic fertilizer production. Agricultural leaders have voiced support for these measures amid ongoing economic challenges.


House Oversight Committee advances nine bills to increase transparency and protect taxpayers

The House Oversight Committee has advanced nine bills designed to improve government transparency and protect taxpayer funds through stricter oversight of spending practices and new reporting requirements.


Senate Energy Committee schedules hearing on nuclear energy executive orders for March 18

The Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources has scheduled a hearing for March 18 to review implementation of recent nuclear energy executive orders. Key officials from government and industry will testify. The session will be webcast live for public viewing.


Rep. Ronny Jackson addresses challenges and priorities for U.S. Special Operations Forces

Rep. Ronny Jackson discussed ongoing demands on U.S. Special Operations Forces during a March hearing on their fiscal year 2027 priorities. He addressed concerns about recent budget proposals while expressing hope for increased future funding.


Senate committee chairman Cruz questions Section 230 and proposes reforms for online speech

Senator Ted Cruz called for reforms of Section 230 during a Senate Commerce Committee hearing on March 18. He criticized Big Tech's role in moderating online content and proposed legislative measures aimed at protecting free expression while addressing concerns about censorship.


Chairman Bost leads hearing on VA reauthorization to modernize healthcare and benefits

House Veterans’ Affairs Chairman Mike Bost led a hearing reviewing 27 bills aimed at updating key Department of Veterans Affairs programs. The initiative focuses on improving healthcare delivery, benefits administration, research coordination, and infrastructure modernization for veterans.


Senate Judiciary Committee urged to advance Combating Illicit Xylazine Act by broad coalition

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.


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.


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.


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.