Stories by H. B. Edwards on Federal Newswire


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.


Senate Judiciary Democrats request GAO investigation into Trump-era immigration policies

Senate Judiciary Committee Democrats have called on the Government Accountability Office to investigate recent Trump-era actions halting legal immigration processes. The senators express concern about policy changes impacting immigrants' ability to maintain lawful status. Their formal request seeks clarity on halted processing as well as increased scrutiny of previously approved applicants.


Guthrie discusses House resolution on supporting rural communities and economic growth

Chairman Brett Guthrie spoke about H.Res. 1182 highlighting Republican efforts for rural communities. His remarks addressed legislative actions impacting healthcare access and economic growth under consideration by the House Energy and Commerce Committee.


Chairman Rogers urges increased defense investment to deter China and North Korea

House Armed Services Committee Chairman Mike Rogers has called for more U.S. defense spending amid concerns over growing threats from China and North Korea in Asia's Indo-Pacific region. During an April 22 hearing he stressed stronger alliances with regional partners like Japan, South Korea, Australia—and urgent support for Taiwan's defenses.


Durbin criticizes Republicans for focusing on deportation funding over affordability crisis

Senator Dick Durbin criticized Republican lawmakers for focusing on immigration enforcement funding instead of tackling rising costs affecting American families. He highlighted growing economic inequality under current policies while urging Congress toward reforms benefiting ordinary citizens.


Heinrich questions DOE Secretary Wright on energy project cancellations and rising costs

Senator Martin Heinrich pressed Department of Energy Secretary Chris Wright over canceled clean energy projects and budget cuts during an April hearing. Heinrich accused DOE leadership of making politically motivated decisions impacting American families' energy costs.


Durbin responds to Justice Department indictment of Southern Poverty Law Center

Senator Dick Durbin issued a statement after the Justice Department indicted the Southern Poverty Law Center for alleged financial crimes. Durbin criticized what he called politically motivated actions against civil rights organizations. The Senate Judiciary Committee continues its legislative oversight role in such matters.