Stories by H. B. Edwards on Federal Newswire

Senator Jim Risch thanked spring term interns serving with the Senate Foreign Relations Committee for their contributions amid global challenges. The announcement highlighted each intern's background and experience gained during their service.

Chairman Comer addresses lawfare and its impact on American agriculture at committee roundtable

Chairman James Comer addressed how legal actions are affecting farmers at a House Oversight Committee roundtable held Apr. 21. He cited specific cases where families faced litigation or penalties due to government actions or reinterpretations of regulations.

Durbin raises concerns over immigration detention conditions and deaths under Trump administration

Senator Dick Durbin spoke on Apr. 21 about rising deaths and harsh conditions at U.S. immigration detention centers under President Trump's administration. He cited new research showing record-high fatalities in custody this year alongside personal stories from detainees' families at facilities like Dilley.

Senator Collins questions HHS Secretary Kennedy on women’s health research and funding caps

Senator Susan Collins questioned HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. about declining NIH support for women’s health studies during an appropriations hearing April 21. The exchange also covered proposed caps on indirect costs for biomedical research grants amid concerns over U.S competitiveness.

Senate passes bill to expand nationwide background checks for child care workers

The U.S. Senate has passed bipartisan legislation expanding access to national background checks for all child care workers—including school contractors—following concerns about gaps created by previous law changes. Senators Dick Durbin and Chuck Grassley highlighted broad support as they urged quick approval by the House.

Durbin calls for FBI Director Kash Patel’s replacement after new revelations

Senator Dick Durbin called for replacing FBI Director Kash Patel after reports questioned his conduct during office. Citing concerns over national security risks tied with alleged absenteeism and management issues under Patel's tenure, Durbin pressed for immediate action.

House Small Business Committee to hold hearing on gig economy and entrepreneurship

The House Committee on Small Business will hold a public hearing focused on the gig economy's impact on entrepreneurship. Scheduled for April 21 in Washington D.C., witnesses from several industries are set to testify.

Durbin calls for FBI Director Patel's replacement after reports of misconduct

Senator Dick Durbin called for replacing FBI Director Kash Patel after reports alleged misconduct including absenteeism. Durbin cited concerns about national security risks during remarks on April 20 in Washington D.C., referencing recent media coverage.

Restoration News urges support for SAVE America Act, citing citizenship verification and voter ID provisions

Restoration News Media announced support for new federal voter ID requirements under the SAVE America Act.

Markey urges big businesses to refund tariff savings as CBP launches portal for refunds

Senator Edward J. Markey urges Customs officials for an easier refund process after illegal Trump-era tariffs are set for repayment through a new online portal. He calls on large companies receiving refunds not just keep savings but pass them along directly consumers or small business clients.

Heinrich, Luján, Leger Fernández urge full review of uranium drilling in Carson National Forest

Senators Heinrich and Luján along with Representative Leger Fernández have urged federal officials not to approve uranium drilling in Carson National Forest without a full environmental review. Their concerns focus on protecting New Mexico's Chama watershed from potential contamination or disruption.

Senate Energy Committee announces hearing on Department of Energy budget request

The Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources will hold a hearing on April 21 about next year's budget request for the Department of Energy. Secretary Christopher Wright will testify at this session. The event will be webcast live with materials available online.

House to consider ALERT Act following 2025 midair collision at Reagan National Airport

By H. B. Edwards | Apr 18, 2026

The House is set to review bipartisan legislation aimed at improving airspace safety after a fatal midair collision in early 2025 near Washington National Airport. Industry stakeholders widely support measures in the ALERT Act addressing investigation findings through new technologies and coordinated efforts.

Burchett announces roundtable to review IRS operations on April 15

By H. B. Edwards | Apr 18, 2026

Chairman Tim Burchett has announced a congressional roundtable set for April 15 focusing on longstanding operational challenges within the Internal Revenue Service. The session aims to explore modernization efforts and solutions for better taxpayer service.

Walberg holds hearing on Department of Health and Human Services policies and priorities

By H. B. Edwards | Apr 17, 2026

Chairman Tim Walberg led an April 17 hearing examining Health & Human Services' policies amid rising healthcare costs. The session covered topics including cost transparency reforms, child nutrition guidelines changes under Secretary Kennedy's leadership, early childhood program oversight reforms—and fiscal proposals aiming for taxpayer savings.

Senators criticize Trump administration for extending sanctions relief on Russian oil

By H. B. Edwards | Apr 17, 2026

Senators Jeanne Shaheen, Chuck Schumer, and Elizabeth Warren have criticized the Trump administration's extension of sanctions relief for Russian oil purchases following recent violence in Ukraine. Their statement highlights concerns over U.S.-Russia policy shifts amid ongoing conflict.

Rep. Pat Fallon addresses military personnel subcommittee on health and welfare of the force

Rep. Pat Fallon led a congressional hearing focused on policies impacting military personnel's health and welfare. The session addressed recruitment challenges, quality-of-life issues like healthcare access and family support programs.

Subcommittee examines fraud in federally funded state programs at recent hearing

A congressional subcommittee reviewed widespread fraud risks in federally funded state-run programs during a recent hearing. Experts cited outdated controls and lack of leadership as major issues leading to billions lost annually from taxpayer funds.

Senators urge USTR to maintain USMCA market access for American agricultural producers

A bipartisan group of senators led by Amy Klobuchar sent a letter urging strong support for American farm exports under USMCA ahead of its six-year review. Industry leaders praised their efforts while highlighting how vital Canadian and Mexican markets are due to this agreement.

House Appropriations Committee releases FY27 financial services and general government bill