Stories by R. C. Jamison on Federal Newswire


Murkowski and Schatz introduce bipartisan bill to modernize Native housing programs

Senators Lisa Murkowski and Brian Schatz have introduced bipartisan legislation aimed at updating federal native housing programs through 2033. The proposed law seeks greater flexibility for tribes while reaffirming congressional support for self-determination in addressing local needs.


Homeland Security Committee examines impact of DHS shutdown on agency operations

The House Committee on Homeland Security reviewed how recent Department of Homeland Security shutdowns have disrupted core missions across agencies like TSA, FEMA, CISA, and Coast Guard. Officials warned about long-term impacts including workforce challenges and risks ahead of major international events such as the FIFA World Cup.


Senator Collins issues statement on Senate passage of DHS funding package

Senator Susan Collins commented on March 27 about passing a key Department of Homeland Security funding bill. She highlighted Republican efforts during negotiations while criticizing Democratic opposition. The move aims at ending disruptions caused by a recent agency shutdown.


Senator Cassidy leads Senate hearing on reforming college athletics and student success

Senator Bill Cassidy chaired a Senate committee hearing focused on reforming college athletics policy. Witnesses discussed potential impacts of classifying athletes as employees on both men’s and women’s collegiate programs. The committee continues work toward solutions affecting students nationwide.


Chairman Bost outlines plans to modernize VA infrastructure for future veterans

House Veterans’ Affairs Chairman Mike Bost announced plans on Mar. 27 for major reforms aimed at modernizing Department of Veterans Affairs infrastructure nationwide. The initiative seeks improved access for all veterans through streamlined construction processes.


Burchett announces roundtable on deleting duplicative federal programs

Chairman Tim Burchett has announced a congressional roundtable examining duplication in federal programs. The session will discuss ways to streamline government operations and reduce taxpayer costs.


House subcommittees announce hearing on Arctic security and U.S. interests

House subcommittees will hold a joint hearing on March 26 to discuss security challenges in the Arctic region amid rising global competition from Russia and China. Chairmen Carlos Giménez and August Pfluger say enhanced domain awareness is needed to protect U.S. interests.


Subcommittee chairman requests GAO review of AI-enabled terrorism threats

Chairman August Pfluger has asked the Government Accountability Office for a review into how violent extremists use artificial intelligence for terrorism. The move follows recent legislation requiring annual assessments on such threats. Lawmakers continue to examine how technology is changing national security risks.


House committee to hold hearing on foreign espionage in U.S. universities March 26

A congressional committee led by Rep. Tim Walberg will examine foreign espionage threats facing U.S. universities during a hearing on March 26. Witnesses from academia and government are scheduled to testify about national security concerns related to stolen innovation.


Oversight Committee releases memorandum on sanctuary policies’ impact on public safety and taxpayers

The House Oversight Committee has released a memorandum analyzing how sanctuary city policies affect public safety and taxpayers. The report details financial costs tied to supporting undocumented immigrants while highlighting operational challenges faced by federal authorities.


Chairman Walberg supports bipartisan bill to modernize professional boxing

Chairman Tim Walberg voiced support for bipartisan legislation designed to modernize professional boxing rules. The bill aims to improve fighter safety standards while increasing choice and pay across organizations.


Chairman Rogers delivers statement on ALERT Act markup in House Armed Services Committee

Chairman Mike Rogers led a markup session on March 26 regarding new aviation safety measures in H.R. 7613—the ALERT Act—before members of the House Armed Services Committee. The proposed changes follow recent NTSB recommendations after a midair collision involving military aircraft.


House passes Muhammad Ali American Boxing Revival Act to protect fighters

The House has passed H.R. 4624—the Muhammad Ali American Boxing Revival Act—to improve conditions for professional boxers. The bill introduces new safety standards, fairer pay structures, and expanded career opportunities within boxing.


House Armed Services Committee leaders commend passage of ALERT Act on air safety reforms

Leaders from both parties on House Armed Services Committee commended progress on new air safety reforms after last year's fatal crash near Washington D.C., highlighting steps taken through H.R. 7613—the ALERT Act—to address NTSB recommendations for safer skies.


Chairman Rick Scott supports CMS proposal to strengthen domestic medical supply chains

Senator Rick Scott has voiced strong support for new CMS proposals intended to boost U.S.-based production of vital medical supplies amid concerns about reliance on foreign sources like China. In a detailed letter addressed Mar. 26 to CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz, Scott outlined steps he believes are needed for greater security within America's healthcare system.


House committee to consider updated ALERT Act on aviation safety March 26

The House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee will review an updated ALERT Act on March 26 after last year's midair collision near Washington National Airport. Lawmakers aim for new measures addressing critical aviation safety issues identified by federal investigators.


House subcommittee reviews Telecommunications Act of 1996 after three decades

Chairman Richard Hudson led a House subcommittee hearing reviewing three decades since passage of the Telecommunications Act of 1996. Lawmakers discussed how technological changes may require updates in federal policy.


House passes bill to address crime and cleanliness in Washington, D.C.

The House has passed H.R. 5103 aiming to improve safety in Washington, D.C., by strengthening law enforcement coordination through new legislation backed by Chairman James Comer and Representative John McGuire.


DesJarlais addresses challenges in national security space programs at House hearing

Representative Scott DesJarlais led a hearing focusing on national security space activities within the Department of Defense on March 25. Key topics included reliance on satellite technologies in modern warfare and challenges posed by delays in receiving budget requests.


Durbin calls for action after jury verdict against Meta in New Mexico case

Senator Dick Durbin called for urgent legislative action after a New Mexico jury found Meta liable for misleading users about platform safety. During a Senate Judiciary Committee hearing on March 25, Durbin highlighted bipartisan support for reforms aimed at protecting children online.