Stories by R. C. Jamison on Federal Newswire

Senators Rick Scott and Kirsten Gillibrand have introduced new legislation requiring country-of-origin labels for prescription drugs sold in America. Their bipartisan effort seeks greater transparency for consumers about where medicines come from.

Sanders urges Bezos to testify before Senate on impact of robotics and AI on workers

Senator Bernie Sanders has called for Jeff Bezos to testify before Congress regarding plans involving widespread automation using robots. Sanders expressed concern about job losses due to artificial intelligence advances and urged action from lawmakers.

Durbin voices opposition to Mullin’s DHS nomination ahead of Senate confirmation vote

Senator Dick Durbin announced he will oppose Markwayne Mullin's nomination for Secretary of Homeland Security. In a floor speech March 23rd, Durbin outlined concerns about previous department leadership and ongoing issues with agency oversight.

House Energy and Commerce Committee schedules markup on FirstNet and emergency alert bills

Chairman Brett Guthrie announced a Full Committee markup for two key bills related to FirstNet reauthorization and emergency alerts. The session will take place March 25 at Rayburn House Office Building. The meeting is open to both public attendance and press coverage.

Homeland Security subcommittee examines risks of non-domiciled CDLs issued to illegal aliens

A House Homeland Security subcommittee held a hearing examining risks linked with issuing non-domiciled commercial driver’s licenses (CDLs) to illegal aliens. Lawmakers heard testimony about fatal accidents involving such drivers and discussed steps states could take for better enforcement.

Coast Guard Vice Commandant to testify before subcommittee on future readiness plans

Admiral Thomas G. Allan Jr., Vice Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard, will testify before a congressional subcommittee on March 17 about plans to strengthen service capabilities. Lawmakers aim to review readiness and future mission needs during this session.

House Small Business Committee schedules hearing on SBA Office of Field Operations

The House Committee on Small Business will hold a public hearing on March 18 about how well the SBA's Office of Field Operations connects with small businesses. Lisa Shimkat from the SBA will testify before lawmakers.

Committee Republicans seek EPA information on Potomac Interceptor sewage discharge

Republican leaders from a House committee have asked EPA for details about a major sewage spill into Maryland's Potomac River after a sewer line collapsed in January. The lawmakers cited concerns about state enforcement under federal water laws and offered support for ongoing investigations.

Durbin outlines obstacles to voter registration under proposed SAVE America Act

By R. C. Jamison | Mar 20, 2026

Senator Dick Durbin described potential barriers for voters under proposed new registration rules requiring proof of citizenship. He compared these requirements with past Supreme Court rulings on voting rights while highlighting possible impacts on millions without proper documents.

Senator Cassidy calls for action after antisemitic incidents at San Jose State University

By R. C. Jamison | Mar 20, 2026

Senator Bill Cassidy has called attention to recent antisemitic incidents at San Jose State University. He criticized what he described as an inadequate response from university officials while urging stronger action to protect Jewish students.

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's leadership during Women’s History Month. Senators Brian Schatz and Lisa Murkowski led the effort to recognize these women's significant contributions across various fields.

Markey and former New Jersey attorney general hold briefing on small business tariff refunds

Senator Edward J. Markey held a virtual briefing with former New Jersey Attorney General Matt Platkin about tariff tax refunds for small businesses after a Supreme Court ruling struck down certain tariffs. They discussed ongoing legal efforts and urged an automatic refund process instead of requiring burdensome paperwork from affected companies.

Durbin criticizes SAVE America Act and Republican voting restrictions in Senate speech

Senator Dick Durbin criticized Republican-backed voting legislation during a Senate speech on March 19. He argued new requirements could prevent millions from registering while citing rare instances of illegal voting. The debate reflects wider concerns about access and fairness in U.S. elections.

House Energy and Commerce Committee announces hearing on illicit drug threats for March 26

The House Energy and Commerce Committee will hold a public hearing on March 26 about policies addressing illicit drug threats. The session will review multiple bills aimed at preventing dangerous substances from impacting American communities.

Chairman Cassidy delivers remarks at Senate HELP Committee hearing on legislative efforts

Senator Bill Cassidy led a Senate HELP Committee hearing discussing new bipartisan bills affecting health care, education, labor laws, and retirement programs. The committee aims to address affordability issues while updating policies for modern needs.

House subcommittee to review Telecommunications Act of 1996 in upcoming hearing

A House subcommittee will hold a hearing on March 26 reviewing the Telecommunications Act of 1996 after thirty years. Lawmakers plan to discuss which parts of the law have worked or need updating for today's communications landscape.

Comer and Aderholt urge CMS to enforce new PBM reforms for patient care