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Budd, Scott, Kelly Introduce Strategic Ports Reporting Act

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Budd, Scott, Kelly Introduce Strategic Ports Reporting Act

Senators Ted Budd (R-NC), Rick Scott (R-FL), and Mark Kelly (D-AZ) introduced the Strategic Ports Reporting Act, which requires the Secretary of State and the Secretary of Defense to monitor efforts by the People’s Republic of China (PRC) to build, buy, or own strategic ports around the world.

Specifically, this bill requires the development of a map of foreign and domestic ports of importance to the United States for military, diplomatic, economic, or resource exploration purposes and to identify efforts by the PRC to build, buy, or otherwise control such ports.

This bill would also require the Secretary of State and Secretary of Defense to conduct a study on activities and plans of the PRC as it relates to strategic ports to include an assessment of vulnerabilities of ports operated and controlled by the United States and a strategy to secure trusted investment and ownership of strategic ports.

The House companion bill is led by Representatives Bill Huizenga (R-MI), Rob Wittman (R-VA), Jake Auchincloss (D-MA), and Johnny Olszewski (D-MD).

Senator Budd said in a statement:

“In January, the Senate Commerce Committee held a hearing on PRC influence on the Panama Canal and potential impacts to U.S. national security. This hearing highlighted China’s increasing malign activities around the world and efforts to control global trade. The United States must face this reality head on, and the first step is comprehensive monitoring of PRC activities at domestic and foreign ports that threaten our national interest.”

Senator Scott said:

“The Chinese Communist Party’s increasing influence over global trade routes and strategic infrastructure poses a direct threat to the United States’ national security and economic stability. From the Panama Canal to ports across the world, Communist China is working to grow its economic and military presence to threaten and undermine American interests. The United States must respond decisively and accordingly to eliminate any influence or access Communist China has to the critical infrastructure of the U.S. and its allies that may be used against us. The Strategic Ports Reporting Act is a crucial step to safeguarding critical ports and securing our supply chains, and protecting our national security.”

Senator Kelly said:

“China’s growing influence over the oceans can have serious consequences for our national security and economy. That’s why we need the State and Defense Departments to protect our strategic ports from China’s interference. This bipartisan bill will strengthen our global maritime leadership.”   

Congressman Huizenga said:

“The Chinese Communist Party continues to advance economic and military objectives that undermine the security of the United States. The expansionist policies and strategic investments being pursued by the Chinese Communist Party near the Panama Canal, across the Western Hemisphere, and around the globe are challenges that Republicans and Democrats must confront together in order to put American interests first. The Strategic Ports Reporting Act creates a bipartisan opportunity to not only evaluate these growing concerns but counter them as well.”

Congressman Wittman said:

“China’s Belt and Road Initiative is spreading Chinese money and influence around the world, while degrading our ability to operate in strategic ports necessary for commercial and military purposes. It is crucial for the Departments of State and Defense to identify ways in which the Chinese Communist Party is expanding its maritime reach while providing recommendations for how the United States can counter those efforts and secure access to essential ports and infrastructure. I’m proud to join my colleagues in this bipartisan effort and look forward to championing it over the finish line.”

Congressman Auchincloss said:

“Control over ports is a pathway to global power. For millennia, these linchpins of trade and military might have been vital strategic assets. The United States must not allow China the upper hand.”

Congressman Olszewski said:

“China’s growing control over global ports threatens our national security and economic stability here at home. The Strategic Ports Reporting Act will ensure the U.S. has the necessary tools to monitor and counter this Chinese influence, protecting supply chains and our global standing. I’m proud to join Congressman Huizenga in co-leading this bipartisan effort to safeguard our ports and boost our economy.”

Tillis, Kelly Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Increase Access to Plasma-Based Medicines

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Tillis, Kelly Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Increase Access to Plasma-Based Medicines

Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Mark Kelly (D-AZ) introduced the bipartisan Preserving Life-saving Access to Specialty Medicines in America (PLASMA) Act, legislation to ensure individuals with rare diseases and immunodeficiencies have access to necessary plasma-based medicines. 

“It is critical patients with rare diseases and immunodeficiencies have uninterrupted access to the life-saving plasma-based medicines they need,” said Senator Tillis. “This commonsense legislation increases access to these innovative medications and ensures they remain affordable for the thousands of Americas who rely on them.” 

“Patients with rare diseases and immune disorders rely on plasma-based medicines to stay healthy, but right now, too many are facing rising costs and supply challenges,” said Senator Kelly. “By protecting access to these lifesaving medicines, we’re making sure patients can get the treatments they need affordably and without disruption.” 

“The Alpha-1 Foundation is proud to endorse The PLASMA Act in support of patients with rare diseases, like Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency and immunodeficiencies to have access to necessary plasma-based medicines,” said Scott Santarella, President & CEO, Alpha-1 Foundation. “It is vital for our community to have continued access to this life-saving plasma therapy that they receive on a weekly basis.” 

Representative Richard Hudson (R-NC) introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives.

“All Americans impacted by rare diseases deserve to have innovative, high-quality health care,” said Representative Hudson.“My legislation will increase access to plasma medicines for our nation’s most vulnerable patients and help save lives.”

Background:

North Carolina is home to one of the world’s largest plasma production facilities and more than 30 plasma donor centers across the state, which provide life-saving measures for thousands of Americans. 

The PLASMA Act would include plasma-derived medicines in a phase-in process for the Part D redesign the Inflation Reduction Act already has in place for other drugs Congress recognized as unique. Beginning in 2031, manufacturers would pay the full rebate amount following annual rebate increases, protecting vulnerable beneficiaries’ supply of plasma-derived medicines and avoiding skyrocketing costs for patients. 

In the United States, over 125,000 patients living with rare and life-threatening diseases rely on sustained access to plasma derived medicinal products to treat their lifelong health conditions. These rare and chronic diseases include Primary Immunodeficiencies, Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy, and Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency; for most patients there are no effective, alternative therapies available. 

The PLASMA Act is endorsed by top national and international health organizations, including the Immune Deficiency Foundation, Plasma Protein Therapeutics Association, Alpha-1 Foundation, and GBS | CIDP Foundation International.

Full text of the legislation is available HERE.

Rep. Barry Moore’s bill to deport illegals who drive under the influence passes House Judiciary Committee

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Rep. Barry Moore’s bill to deport illegals who drive under the influence passes House Judiciary Committee

Rep. Barry Moore’s (AL-01) bill, The Jeremy and Angel Seay and Sergeant Brandon Mendoza Protect Our Communities from DUIs Act of 2025, passed the Judiciary Committee. This legislation would deport any alien who has been convicted or admitted to the offense of driving while drunk or impaired.

From Rep. Moore’s opening statement: “Every 45 minutes — that is how often someone in the United States dies in a crash with an alcohol-impaired driver. In 2022 alone, there were 13,524 alcohol-impaired driving fatalities and 400,000 injuries. Those crashes don’t discriminate. It could me, it could be you, could be one of our family members. This issue hits close to home for me. There was a newlywed couple from my hometown of Enterprise named Angel and Jeremy Seay, I knew this couple personally. Angel and Jeremy were riding their motorcycle together when out of nowhere an illegal immigrant under the influence of alcohol plowed into them with his pick-up truck. Their lives were cut short, and unfortunately tragedies like this one are not uncommon across our country.”

Hashmi Tries to Forget Her Role in Education Decline

Matt OHern
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Hashmi Tries to Forget Her Role in Education Decline

State Senator Ghazala Hashmi (D-Powhatan) has written a  Richmond Times-Dispatch commentary proclaiming Governor Glenn Youngkin responsible for Virginia’s education declines, a commentary astonishing for the breadth of its amnestic qualities.   Senator Hashmi, who seeks the Democratic nomination for Lt. Governor, correctly notes “Virginia’s fourth-grade math scores have plummeted, dropping us from fifth place in 2019 […]

The post Hashmi Tries to Forget Her Role in Education Decline appeared first on Thomas Jefferson Institute for Public Policy.

David Scott, Brian Fitzpatrick, Debbie Wasserman Schultz, Don Bacon, and Jan Schakowsky Reintroduce Measure Recognizing the Seriousness of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

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David Scott, Brian Fitzpatrick, Debbie Wasserman Schultz, Don Bacon, and Jan Schakowsky Reintroduce Measure Recognizing the Seriousness of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Representatives David Scott (GA-13), Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), Don Bacon (NE-02), and Jan Schakowsky (IL-09) reintroduced a bipartisan measure recognizing the seriousness of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and supporting the designation of the month of September as “PCOS Awareness Month.”

“There is an urgent need to increase education, research, and public awareness for PCOS to help millions of women and girls living with the disease,” said Rep. David Scott. “PCOS remains a leading cause of infertility, metabolic disorders, and increased risks for type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and mental health conditions, yet federal funding for research and treatment lags behind other similarly common conditions. Congress must allocate increased funding for PCOS research and support services—precisely what our bipartisan resolution calls for. New funding will help improve early diagnosis, advance treatment options, and provide better resources for those affected. It is past time we prioritize PCOS as the public health crisis it has always been and ensure that those living with the condition receive the care and support they deserve.”

“PCOS impacts millions of women and girls, yet remains one of the most misunderstood, misdiagnosed, and underfunded health conditions. Despite its well-documented links to infertility, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease, research and medical training have not kept pace with the urgency of this issue,” said Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick. “Our bipartisan resolution serves as a call to action, demanding increased investment in research, enhanced medical education, and improved access to care. It’s long past time we give this disease the attention and resources it deserves.”

“Polycystic Ovary Syndrome affects as many as one in seven women, and half go undiagnosed, especially African Americans. Worse, there’s no cure for PCOS and health care providers often misdiagnose it, leaving critical gaps in our understanding around its severe comorbidities, like infertility, heart disease, diabetes, and more,” said Rep. Wasserman Schultz. “Like so many disorders that affect women, PCOS has gone ignored and undetected for far too long. But we’re working to change that. I’m proud to join my colleagues in leading this bipartisan resolution to change that narrative and offer hope to all women facing PCOS.”

“Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is a serious and often overlooked condition impacting over 10 million women in the United States. PCOS is frequently underdiagnosed, yet it carries significant symptoms, including insulin resistance, menstrual irregularities, weight gain, thinning scalp hair, and depression during puberty and throughout a person’s life,” said Rep. Don Bacon. “I’m proud to join my colleagues in reintroducing this bipartisan measure to designate September as PCOS Awareness Month. We must bring more awareness to address PCOS and ensure women affected by this condition receive the recognition and support they need.”

“For decades, women of all races, ethnicities, ages, and socioeconomic groups have been underrepresented in biomedical research. Millions of women across the United States live with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), which can lead to pregnancy complications and infertility, among many other serious health issues. There is currently no cure for this condition and that is why it is crucial that we raise awareness and invest in research to discover new treatments,” said Rep. Jan Schakowsky. “I am proud to join my colleagues in introducing this resolution because we must do all we can to support women’s health and promote PCOS awareness, education, and innovation.”

PCOS affects over 10 million women and girls in the United States, yet it remains widely underdiagnosed and misunderstood. Too few healthcare providers are adequately trained to recognize symptoms, leading to frequent misdiagnosis and delayed treatment. According, to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 50% of women with PCOS develop Type 2 diabetes or prediabetes by age 40, with increased risks for cardiovascular disease, uterine cancer, liver disease, and mental health challenges–including higher risk of suicide.

Beyond its immediate health impacts, PCOS is a major contributor to female infertility and maternal health disparities. Women with PCOS are at higher risk of pregnancy-related complications, such as preeclampsia and emergency C-sections.

The bipartisan PCOS Awareness Month Resolution recognizes the seriousness of PCOS, urges health care professionals to increase their understanding of PCOS, and calls on states, territories, and localities to support the goals of PCOS Awareness Month, which include:

·         Increasing awareness and education about PCOS and its connection to comorbidities,

·         Improving diagnosis, treatment, and care of the disorder,

·         Disseminating information regarding diagnosis, treatment, and management of PCOS, and

·         Improving the quality of life and outcomes for women and girls with PCOS.

Rep. Rogers Introduces Legislation to Make Way for Permanent Daylight Savings Time

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Rep. Rogers Introduces Legislation to Make Way for Permanent Daylight Savings Time

U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers (AL-03), today announced the introduction of legislation that gives states the choice to remain on Daylight Saving Time year-round. Rep. Rogers has long supported measures to allow Alabama to remain on Daylight Saving Time. 

The Uniform Time Act of 1966 bars states from deciding whether to remain on Daylight Saving Time independently. In 2021, Gov. Kay Ivey signed a law passed through the Alabama state legislature that would direct the state to remain on Daylight Saving Time year-round. This law, and similar state laws across the country would take effect immediately upon Rep. Rogers’ legislation receiving the President’s signature. 

“I am proud to have reintroduced legislation to allow states to remain on Daylight Saving Time year-round,” said Rep. Rogers. “Changing our clocks twice a year is unnecessary and an outdated nuisance, furthermore, remaining on Daylight Saving Time could have tremendous benefits for the economy and people’s health. The people of Alabama have spoken, and they want to stay on Daylight Saving Time year-round. My legislation allows our state and many more to do just that.”

Governor Jeff Landry’s Fiscal Responsibility Program to Partner with Louisiana Legislative Auditor

Matt OHern
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Governor Jeff Landry’s Fiscal Responsibility Program to Partner with Louisiana Legislative Auditor

Baton Rouge, LA— Governor Jeff Landry’s Fiscal Responsibility Czar, Steve Orlando, announced a partnership between the Governor’s Fiscal Responsibility Program and the Louisiana Legislative Auditor. The partnership aims to identify / drive efficiencies, waste reduction and cost optimization to ensure government operations are both efficient and effective.

This partnership underscores the LLA’s longstanding commitment to fiscal responsibility and its role as a trusted advisor in state government. While actively supporting the Fiscal Responsibility Program, the LLA will continue to maintain its independent oversight functions as mandated by state law.

Governor Landry, Fiscal Responsibility Czar Steve Orlando, and the LLA encourage citizens to contribute their insights and recommendations to enhance Louisiana’s fiscal future. Suggestions can be submitted via email to LADOGE@LLA.LA.GOV.

“It is wonderful to see the Louisiana Legislative Auditor stepping up to aid in the Governor’s fiscal responsibility mission. I am eager for our teams to get together and begin finding ways to improve efficiency and effectiveness in all areas of Louisiana’s government, said Fiscal Responsibility Czar Steve Orlando. “Working together, I am confident we will deliver on Governor Landry’s promise of a more productive and responsible state government.”

Lousiana Sen. Kennedy condemns Biden Admin for Giving $2B to Abrams-Backed Climate Change Organization

Matt OHern
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Lousiana Sen. Kennedy condemns Biden Admin for Giving $2B to Abrams-Backed Climate Change Organization

 Sen. John Kennedy (R-La.), in a speech on the Senate floor, questioned how a six-month-old nonprofit with $100 in the bank and ties to former Georgia gubernatorial candidate Stacey Abrams was able to secure a $2 billion climate change grant from President Biden’s Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Key excerpts of the speech are below:

“I try to see the world from other people’s bell towers as much as I can, but I cannot come up, not for the life of me, with a single rational justification as to why the EPA under the Biden administration thought it was appropriate to give Power Forward and Rewiring America—two brand new nonprofits with no business experience, no accomplishments according to the IRS forms, and only 100 bucks in the bank—to give them $2 billion of taxpayer money, especially to the exclusion of every other qualified applicant for that money, if there were any other qualified applicants.”

. . .

“The average Louisianian, because of President Biden’s inflation, had to spend an extra $890 a month—extra—for food and clothing and car notes, and they didn’t get an $890-a-month raise.

“President Biden and my Democratic colleagues told us that the Inflation Reduction Act—I remember when it was passed. They said: ‘If you spend $1.2 trillion on the Inflation Reduction Act, it will be a lifeline to every family in America.’ That is not what it looks like to me. It is starting to look like to me that it was really a slush fund—a slush fund for Washington insiders.”

. . .

“Now, this is just the beginning of the type of spending porn that President Trump and Mr. [Elon] Musk are uncovering that people are screaming about. I am going to repeat what I started with: There is nothing wrong with wanting to know what they do and did with our money, and that is all President Trump and Mr. Musk are doing.”

Background

  • In April 2024, President Biden’s EPA announced the award of a $2 billion federal grant to Power Forward Communities through the Inflation Reduction Act’s Green House Gas Reduction Fund. The grant was to help homes transition from gas appliances to electric.
  • Power Forward Communities formed in Oct. 2023 as a coalition of nonprofits, including Habitat for Humanity International, United Way Worldwide, and Rewiring America. According to its tax filings, Power Forward Communities had just $100 in revenues in 2023.
  • Rewiring America similarly formed in 2023. Abrams joined the nonprofit in March 2023 as senior counsel. The organization stated in its tax filings that 2023 was a “startup year for the organization.” Rewiring America’s only listed accomplishment was that it had “joined a coalition of other national organizations to apply for a grant from the Inflation Reduction Act’s Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund.”
  • EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin has pledged to claw back more than $20 billion in improper Inflation Reduction Act grants, including the $2 billion to Power Forward Communities.
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