Stories by R. C. Jamison on Federal Newswire

Senators Lisa Murkowski and Brian Schatz led a hearing examining federal policies on Indian water rights settlements. The session focused on legislative efforts like S. 953 and emphasized Congress's responsibility toward tribal nations.

Senate Commerce Committee advances five nominations and Coast Guard promotions

The Senate Commerce Committee has advanced five federal nominations along with over 200 Coast Guard promotions following an executive session on March 12. The committee plays an important role in reviewing legislation related to commerce, science, and transportation.

House Appropriations Committee holds oversight hearings for FY27 funding process

The House Appropriations Committee held key oversight hearings reviewing agency spending ahead of fiscal year 2027 funding decisions. Lawmakers questioned officials from agriculture and transportation departments about program effectiveness and accountability measures.

Whitehouse files comment on Department of Energy’s categorical exclusion for advanced nuclear reactors

Senator Sheldon Whitehouse filed a public comment criticizing the Department of Energy's new policy allowing some advanced nuclear reactors to bypass detailed environmental review. He raised concerns about weakened safety standards and oversight. The Senate Environment and Public Works Committee continues its role overseeing these issues.

Senate Democrats criticize Trump administration for removing history from public lands

Senate Democrats have criticized recent moves by the Trump administration to remove historical references from national parks across America. Senators say these changes threaten honest storytelling about U.S. history for future generations.

Whitehouse addresses Clean Air Act and EPA actions at Senate committee hearing

Senator Sheldon Whitehouse delivered an opening statement at a Senate Environment and Public Works Committee hearing addressing diesel emissions policy and recent EPA actions. His remarks highlighted both historical progress under the Clean Air Act and concerns over regulatory rollbacks affecting public health costs.

Durbin criticizes Senate Republicans for blocking DHS funding bill during ongoing negotiations

Senator Dick Durbin criticized Senate Republicans for blocking a bill funding key Homeland Security agencies while negotiations over immigration enforcement continue. The dispute centers around reforms sought for federal immigration authorities such as ICE.

Heinrich criticizes Trump administration efforts to alter history at national parks

Senator Martin Heinrich criticized recent efforts by the Trump administration to remove or alter historical content in national parks during a Senate floor speech on March 11. Heinrich argued that erasing difficult chapters undermines collective understanding of American identity.

Durbin questions witnesses on birthright citizenship during Senate Judiciary hearing

Senator Dick Durbin questioned witnesses during a Senate Judiciary Subcommittee hearing on birthright citizenship amid ongoing debate over proposed policy changes. The session highlighted challenges in verifying claims about alleged abuses of current laws.

House Energy and Commerce Committee announces hearing on Winter Storm Fern lessons

The House Energy and Commerce Committee has announced a hearing focused on lessons from Winter Storm Fern. Lawmakers plan to discuss how reliable power sources met peak demand during extreme weather conditions.

Senate hearing addresses challenges for pet businesses amid economic policies and rising costs

Senator Edward J. Markey addressed rising costs facing pet owners and small businesses during a recent Senate hearing. The discussion focused on healthcare expenses, tariffs, and economic uncertainty impacting Main Street's pet economy.

Chairman Boozman calls for strengthening domestic markets for American farm products

Senator John Boozman has opened hearings focused on boosting domestic demand for American farm products amid financial stress in agriculture. The Senate Agriculture Committee will explore ways to strengthen local markets while continuing oversight of key agricultural policies.

Senate Foreign Relations Committee Democrats release report on U.S.-China policy under Trump administration

Senator Jeanne Shaheen and Senate Foreign Relations Committee Democrats released a report criticizing President Trump's China policy ahead of his planned trip to Beijing. The report claims recent policies have hurt American families economically while boosting China's global influence.

Klobuchar addresses Senate hearing on boosting domestic use of U.S. agricultural products

Senator Amy Klobuchar spoke at a Senate Agriculture Committee hearing about increasing domestic use of U.S.-grown crops. She called for bipartisan solutions including expanded market opportunities for farmers amid economic challenges.

Durbin speaks against Republicans’ SAVE America Act on Senate floor

Senator Dick Durbin spoke against the Republicans’ SAVE America Act on March 10, arguing it would restrict voting access for millions of Americans. The act requires documentary proof of citizenship beyond standard identification forms like driver’s licenses or military IDs.

Durbin criticizes Noem’s leadership at DHS following her removal by President Trump