Stories by T. P. Broyles on Federal Newswire

Senators Bill Cassidy and Tommy Tuberville have introduced draft legislation targeting fraud in federal child care funding. The proposal seeks stronger oversight measures after investigations revealed issues in several states. Stakeholders are encouraged to provide feedback before April 8.

Markey criticizes Trump administration over fraud and transparency at Senate hearing

Senator Edward J. Markey criticized alleged fraud under the Trump administration during a Senate Small Business Committee hearing focused on transparency. He called for more oversight regarding operations at the Small Business Administration's Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE). The committee's role in shaping fiscal policy was also discussed.

Subcommittee reviews USPS financial challenges and reform efforts under Postmaster General Steiner

A congressional subcommittee reviewed efforts by Postmaster General David Steiner aimed at addressing severe financial problems facing USPS. Lawmakers pressed for answers on cost-cutting measures, rising expenses, service quality issues, and future reforms.

House subcommittee examines electric grid performance during Winter Storm Fern

Congressman Bob Latta opened a House subcommittee hearing examining how the electric grid performed during Winter Storm Fern. The discussion focused on lessons learned for ensuring reliable power supply during extreme weather events.

House passes Small Business Innovation and Economic Security Act to reauthorize SBIR/STTR programs

The U.S. House has approved S. 3971 to reauthorize key small business innovation programs through 2031. Lawmakers say this move supports entrepreneurs driving technological advancement and economic growth.

Chairman Walberg outlines seven education and workforce bills at committee markup

Chairman Tim Walberg introduced seven new bills during a committee markup on Mar. 17 covering topics from literacy instruction reforms to combating student aid fraud and curbing frivolous lawsuits affecting retirement plans.

Interior Department announces investment in western water infrastructure for farmers and families

The U.S. Department of the Interior has announced a $1 billion investment in western water infrastructure following recent legislation. Chairman Bruce Westerman says this move will provide more reliable water supplies for farmers and communities across the region.

U.S. Forest Service authorizes land exchange for Resolution Copper project

The U.S. Forest Service has approved a key land exchange with Resolution Copper Mining, advancing a major domestic copper project. Lawmakers say this move will help secure U.S. mineral supplies and create jobs.

House passes Small Business Innovation and Economic Security Act to reauthorize SBIR/STTR programs

The U.S. House has passed a bill reauthorizing key federal innovation programs for small businesses through 2031. Lawmakers say this move will help entrepreneurs drive technological advancement and economic growth.

Chairman Comer issues subpoena to Attorney General Pam Bondi

Chairman James Comer has issued a subpoena for Attorney General Pam Bondi concerning the Department of Justice's handling of the Epstein investigation. Bondi is also set to brief committee members privately alongside Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche.

House subcommittee examines Medicare and Medicaid fraud in oversight hearing

A House subcommittee held a hearing on March 17 examining widespread fraud in Medicare and Medicaid programs. Lawmakers discussed challenges facing oversight efforts at both state and federal levels while highlighting recent cases involving fraudulent billing practices.

Walberg supports executive order to address federal fraud and abuse

Chairman Tim Walberg voiced support for President Trump's executive order targeting federal program fraud. The House Education and Workforce Committee is advancing legislation aimed at closing loopholes after recent reports of abuse.

House advances 12 natural resources bills including new national park and sequoia protections

The U.S. House has moved forward with twelve natural resources bills focused on conservation, wildfire recovery, tribal sovereignty, and expanding public lands access—including creating a new national park in Arizona and protecting Giant Sequoias.

Whitehouse issues statement on Kennedy Center board meeting and management concerns

Senator Sheldon Whitehouse released a statement criticizing recent actions by Kennedy Center leadership ahead of a key board meeting. He raised concerns about governance changes under President Trump’s chairmanship and called for more transparency regarding financial management.

Ernst names Grant Ranch Grub & Pub as Small Business of the Week

Chair Joni Ernst has named Grant Ranch Grub & Pub as Small Business of the Week. The restaurant is recognized for its commitment to tradition and community service. The Senate Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee continues its work supporting small businesses nationwide.

House subcommittee to hold hearing on security risks from Chinese AI and robotics firms

By T. P. Broyles | Mar 15, 2026

A House subcommittee will hold a hearing March 17 examining security risks posed by Chinese AI and robotics firms such as DeepSeek and Unitree Robotics. Lawmakers aim to assess current safeguards protecting U.S. infrastructure from foreign technology threats.

Whitehouse and Schumer question GSA’s management of federal fine arts collection

Senators Sheldon Whitehouse and Chuck Schumer have raised concerns about how federal fine arts are managed following staff layoffs at GSA's Fine Arts division. Their letters call for greater oversight amid building sales that may put historic artworks at risk.

Senator Collins urges end to Department of Homeland Security shutdown in Senate remarks

Senator Susan Collins urged Democrats in a March 12 speech to help end the Department of Homeland Security shutdown. She cited risks posed by unpaid staff and delays at airports while highlighting bipartisan efforts within the Senate Appropriations Committee.

Senator Markey releases report on ICE raids’ impact on small businesses and communities

Senator Edward J. Markey released a report detailing how recent ICE raids have harmed small businesses nationwide through lost revenue and community disruption. The report includes firsthand accounts from affected business owners along with economic projections about broader impacts.

Durbin calls for reforms to FISA Section 702 ahead of its expiration next month