Valadao, David RSS Articles

Valadao, Bonamici, Bacon Lead Effort to Provide Greater Access to Substance Use Disorder Treatment and Services

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON – Congressman David Valadao (CA-22) joined Reps. Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01) and Don Bacon (NE-02) to reintroduce the Connections to Health Infrastructure and Emergency Recovery Services (CHIERS) Act. This bipartisan bill would create a grant program to provide transportation for people in need of overdose prevention services, substance use disorder treatment, detoxification, and other related supportive services.

Congressman Valadao was an original co-sponsor of this legislation in the 118th Congress.

“In the Central Valley, we’ve seen firsthand the devastating impact of the opioid epidemic,” said Congressman Valadao. “Too often, people seeking treatment in our communities face long travel times, high transportation costs, and difficulty receiving timely care. We should be doing everything we can to make it easier for people suffering from substance use disorder to get the help they need and break the cycle of addiction. I’m proud to help introduce the bipartisan CHIERS Act to remove barriers to treatment and expand access to timely, life-saving care.”

“People shouldn’t be held back from getting the care they need because they do not have a way to get there,” said Congresswoman Bonamici. “For years people in Portland benefitted from the CHIERS van, which helped transport people in need to sobering centers. I’m working with my bipartisan colleagues to expand on this model and make rides to treatment available to more people across the country who are intoxicated or at risk.”

“Everyone deserves a second chance,” said Rep. Bacon. “The CHIERS Act will improve access to developing services that provide individuals with transportation to and from substance use disorder treatments or support services. This program will help thousands of citizens get the help they need, and I’m grateful to work with Rep. Bonamici on this important effort.”

The CHIERS Act would:

Create a grant program with funding that could be used to train staff, purchase vehicles, and contract with ridesharing services to cover transportation.
Direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to award grants to eligible entities, including community health centers; Continuum of Care Program participants; opioid recovery centers; state, Tribal, and local governments; and nonprofit organizations.

Background:

Communities across Kings, Kern, and Tulare Counties continue to face significant barriers to accessing treatment for opioid use disorder, particularly in rural and low-income areas where treatment centers are limited and transportation options are scarce. Individuals seeking Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) often must travel long distances to reach care, relying on friends or family members for transportation or forgoing treatment altogether due to cost and accessibility challenges. With only eight substance treatment centers serving the three-county region, many residents struggle to receive timely, life-saving services. Expanding grant support for affordable transportation options can help connect residents to critical treatment services—reducing barriers to recovery and improving public health outcomes.

Read the full bill here.

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Congressman Valadao Secures Key Wins for Central Valley Families, Farmers, and Communities in FY27 Agriculture Appropriations Bill

Thu, 04 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman David Valadao (CA-22), a member of the House Committee on Appropriations, released the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Fiscal Year 2027 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. This is the second full-year government funding bill to pass the House for Fiscal Year 2027.

“As a member of the House Committee on Appropriations, I was proud to help pass the Fiscal Year 2027 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act,” said Congressman Valadao. “This bill delivers critical investments for the Central Valley by strengthening rural development programs, helping farmers and ranchers access disaster assistance and Farm Service Agency loans, and supporting nutrition programs that help our most vulnerable put food on the table. It also increases funding for the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service to combat invasive pests and diseases, including the glassy-winged sharpshooter, New World screwworm, and navel orangeworm, which pose a direct threat to our region’s agricultural industry. I was also proud to secure over $1.3 million in Community Project Funding for the Vineland Elementary School District and the Tulare County Fire Department to improve critical water infrastructure and enhance emergency response capabilities in our communities. Advancing this bill through the House is an important step toward completing the full-year funding process, and I look forward to continuing to work with my colleagues to get it over the finish line and ensure our families, farmers, and communities have the resources they deserve.”

Key investments secured by Congressman Valadao in the FY27 Agriculture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act include:

$1.25 million for the Vineland Elementary School District in Bakersfield to construct a new primary water line to ensure adequate water flow for emergency response, support the addition of new classrooms, and provide a safe, modern educational facility for students and staff.
$600,000 for the Tulare County Fire Department to purchase a new water tender to strengthen emergency response capabilities across Tulare County, particularly in rural and underserved areas where access to a reliable water supply is limited.

Additional highlights include:

$1.79 billion for the Agricultural Research Service (ARS), including increases in funding to help discover resilient citrus breeding varieties, pest management and detection methods, and water resource management.
$1.158 billion for the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), including increases for animal health and specialty crop programs and funding to combat invasive pests like glassy-winged sharpshooter, New World screwworm, and navel orangeworm.
$1.1 billion for the Farm Service Agency (FSA) to help farmers access disaster relief, receive funds from commodity programs, acquire loans, and plan for next year.
$3.81 billion for rural development programs, including affordable housing rental assistance, the Section 502 homeownership loan program, and rural broadband grants and loans.
$37.9 billion for Child Nutrition programs—an increase of $59 million above the FY26 enacted level—including funding for the National School Lunch Program, School Breakfast Program, and Summer Food Programs.
$8 billion for the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) and $101.2 billion in mandatory funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to help put food on the tables of our most vulnerable.
$460 million for the Commodity Supplemental Food Program to help feed lower-income senior citizens.
$900 million for the Food for Peace Program and $240 million for the McGovern-Dole International Food for Education and Child Nutrition Program. Both programs purchase commodities from CA-22 farmers and producers, helping combat malnutrition in developing nations and supporting our local economy.

Read the full bill here.

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Congressman Valadao Joins Bipartisan Delegation to Urge Funding to Combat Golden Mussels

Tue, 02 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman David Valadao (CA-22) joined Reps. Vince Fong (CA-20), Jim Costa (CA-21), and Josh Harder (CA-09) to send a letter to U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) Director Brian Nesvik urging immediate emergency federal funding to combat the rapidly spreading invasive golden mussel in California waterways.

The letter warns that, without immediate federal support, California water agencies, farmers, and communities will continue to bear escalating costs as this invasive species spreads unchecked.

“Golden mussels pose a unique threat given they reproduce at exponential rates, clog water delivery systems, and damage water infrastructure,” the letter states. “Golden mussels spawn several times throughout the year producing microscopic larvae in numbers reaching up to one million eggs annually per female. This has led to the unrestrained spread of larvae throughout California and has made eradication efforts nearly impossible.

"Golden mussel colonies infiltrate critical infrastructure, such as pipelines, pumps, and hydropower systems, by attaching to surfaces, reducing water flow, overheating pumps, and potentially causing catastrophic failure of water conveyance systems. These impacts have reduced water conveyance capacity, damaged equipment, and driven-up maintenance costs for water agencies and ratepayers alike.

"After golden mussels were first detected in the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta (Delta) in late 2025, they have rapidly spread, threatening major water systems like the State Water Project and the Central Valley Project. These projects supply water to millions of Californians and irrigate more than 4,000 acres of farmland.

"Kern and San Joaquin Counties recently declared a local state of emergency in response to an active infestation within critical water infrastructure, citing 'immediate operational risks' to drinking water supply, agriculture, energy production, and regional economic stability. The scale and reach of these water projects underscore the statewide risk to California's water supply, environment, and agricultural infrastructure."

Specifically, the letter urges USFWS to:

Expedite emergency funding through existing invasive species authorities
Prioritize California for assistance under existing grant funding and future funding cycles
Increase funding allocations for early detection, rapid response, and containment efforts for water infrastructure systems
Coordinate with federal partners, including the Bureau of Reclamation, Army Corps of Engineers, and Environmental Protection Agency to ensure a whole-of-government response
Expedite the listing of golden mussels on the injurious species list under the Lacey Act
Develop a golden mussel National Control and Management Plan to prevent further introduction and spread, and to eradicate and control existing populations

Read the full letter here.

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Congressman Valadao Welcomes USDA Secretary Rollins to Bakersfield for Roundtable with Local Agriculture Leaders

Fri, 29 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

BAKERSFIELD, CA – Today, Congressman David Valadao (CA-22) hosted U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Brooke Rollins at Allied Potato for a roundtable discussion on the challenges facing Central Valley farmers, ranchers, and producers. The event brought together agricultural leaders from across the region to discuss key industry priorities and celebrate USDA’s finalizing of the Assistance for Specialty Crops Farmers (ASCF) program. This will provide $1.625 billion in payments to eligible specialty crop producers to help offset rising input costs and market disruptions—$625 million more than previously announced.

Prior to the roundtable, Congressman Valadao and Secretary Rollins toured Allied Potato, where they visited the potato fields and observed the processing and packaging operations that help feed families across the nation.

“Agriculture drives the Central Valley’s economy, and I was honored to welcome USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins to Bakersfield for a discussion with local agricultural leaders today,” said Congressman Valadao. “For years, I’ve worked closely with producers across the Valley to address the challenges they face—rising input costs, workforce shortages, burdensome regulations, and the need for a stronger specialty crop safety net—and this conversation reinforced the importance of continued collaboration. As the sole dairy farmer in Congress, I understand these issues firsthand, which is why I was proud to join the Secretary as she announced USDA finalized $1.6 billion in assistance for specialty crop growers to help offset high costs and market disruptions. I appreciate her engagement with our local leaders, and I look forward to continuing to work with USDA on commonsense policies that support Central Valley agriculture and give producers the certainty they need to plan for the future.”

“Thank you Congressman Valadao, a leader on the House Commitee on Agriculture, for hosting an incredible roundtable today at Allied Potato here in your beautiful Bakersfield, California. Your extraordinary farmers, ranchers, and dairymen exemplify what it means to feed the country and the world,” said Secretary Rollins. “Everyday, the Trump Administration is putting Farmers First. As we announced after the roundtable, we are committed to ensuring the economic strength of our specialty crop operations as we continue opening new markets abroad and strengthening demand domestically for American produce. Congressman Valadao was critical to helping pass the Working Families Tax Cut Act, which is already helping over 63,000 California farms sell more agriculture products than any other state, protecting 2 million family farms from the death tax, increasing reference prices for the first time in more than a decade, and making the largest investment in rural America in history. And we are just getting started.”

“It was an honor to be asked by Congressman Valadao to host this important event with USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins. I appreciated the opportunity to welcome her to our farm, showcase Allied Potato’s operations, and share the important role California plays in potato production and exports. Many people are surprised to learn that California exports potatoes, and Allied Potato is proud to be the largest exporter in North America. The roundtable was extremely productive and provided a valuable forum to highlight the challenges and opportunities currently facing our agricultural producers. It was great to discuss these issues directly with Secretary Rollins, and I look forward to continuing the conversation about how producers and policymakers can work together to strengthen the Valley’s agricultural economy, expand our markets, and grow more products for consumers here and around the world,” said Jason Davenport, President and Owner, Allied Potato.

Attendees included representatives from the California Farm Bureau, Western Growers, Wonderful Citrus, California Dairies, Inc., Milk Producer’s Council, California Citrus Mutual, Grimmway Farms, Western Tree Nut Association, Blue Diamond Almonds, California Fresh Fruit Association, California Farmworker Foundation, Family Tree Farms, Monte Vista Farming Company, and Cauzza Growers.

Click here for photos from today's event.

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Congressman Valadao Introduces Bill to Identify Unclaimed Deceased Veterans

Fri, 22 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman David Valadao (CA-22) introduced the Locating Our Unclaimed Veterans Act, a bill which would help Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) locate and collect the unclaimed remains of veterans to ensure they are properly laid to rest.

“All veterans deserve to receive a military burial and recognition for their service to our nation," said Congressman Valadao. "Unfortunately, when a deceased veteran has lost contact with their family—or has no next-of-kin at all—their unclaimed remains can sit on a funeral home shelf collecting dust for years. Ahead of Memorial Day, I’m proud to introduce the Locating Our Unclaimed Veterans Act to create a centralized system that helps Department of Veterans Affairs identify any unclaimed remains and ensure these veterans are laid to rest with the dignity, respect, and military honors they deserve."

"Far too often, missing or unidentified remains of those who have defended our freedoms are left unclaimed. The Locating Our Unclaimed Veterans Act, led by my friend, Rep. David Valadao, would set up a central system to ensure coroners, state governors, and funeral homes can submit the unclaimed remains they believe are veterans. I appreciate my friend, Rep. David Valadao, for his leadership on veterans’ issues and for introducing this important bill ahead of Memorial Day to ensure every veteran receives an honorable and dignified burial," said House Committee on Veterans' Affairs Chairman Mike Bost.

Background:

Unlike missing or unidentified remains, individuals classified as unclaimed are often known by name but lack family or friends willing or able to claim them for burial. In 2023, Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) estimated that out of approximately 150,000 unclaimed remains nationwide, roughly 20,298 were veterans. While coroners and funeral homes may contact VA when they suspect an unclaimed individual is a veteran, VA currently does not have a formal system for intake and identification. The Locating Our Unclaimed Veterans Act would direct the Veterans Benefits Administration to implement a digital intake and identification system for unclaimed remains and match it against existing VA records. This bill would also ask VA to develop Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) with the Social Security Administration, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Department of Defense to develop a system for utilizing information collected by VA to confirm the identity and veteran status of the unclaimed remains.

Read the full bill here.

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House Appropriations Committee Approves Fiscal Year 2027 Legislative Branch Appropriations Bill

Thu, 21 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON – Yesterday, the House Appropriations Committee met to consider the Fiscal Year 2027 Legislative Branch Appropriations Act. This bill includes funding for U.S. Capitol operations, the Library of Congress, and the John C. Stennis Center for Public Service Leadership. Congressman David Valadao (CA-22), Chairman of the Legislative Branch Subcommittee, released the following statement on the bill’s passage out of full committee markup.

“After months of hard work preparing the Fiscal Year 2027 bill as Chairman of the Legislative Branch Subcommittee, I’m proud to see it advance out of full committee markup,” said Congressman Valadao. “This bill ensures Congress has the resources necessary to effectively serve the American people while also reducing unnecessary spending and refocusing our priorities on core responsibilities. Importantly, it strengthens funding for the Capitol Police to ensure the historic Capitol complex remains safe and accessible for Members and staff, as well as students, families, and visitors from across the country. I’m grateful to Chairman Cole for his leadership and guidance throughout this process, and I appreciate the hard work of my subcommittee colleagues. I look forward to building on this momentum as the bill moves through the legislative process.”

Appropriations Committee Chairman Tom Cole said, "Our foremost duty is to our constituents – and the FY27 Legislative Branch bill equips the People’s House to uphold the trust placed in it through responsible governance and effective oversight. It supports key functions of our democracy, strengthens office operations and constituent services, and reinforces efficiency and accountability throughout government. With the summer season ahead, we are further reminded of the importance of the safety and security of the Capitol grounds for visitors, staff, and members alike – and this measure ensures the United States Capitol Police are resourced and prepared. Chairman Valadao crafted legislation that positions Congress to serve the nation, remain responsive to constituents, and steward taxpayer dollars wisely. I’m proud to have our seventh measure advanced out of the full committee."

Legislative Branch Subcommittee Chairman David Valadao began the markup with remarks on the bill. Watch his full remarks here or read as prepared below:

Thank you, Mr. Chairman. First, I would like to express my appreciation to you and your leadership staff for their support in keeping the appropriations process moving in a timely manner again this year. Returning the process to regular order has enabled our agencies to plan their budgets and priorities with certainty, making their operations more efficient and effective. Thank you for all of your efforts and the excellent results. I would also like to express my appreciation to Ranking Member DeLauro and Ranking Member Espaillat for their partnership and commitment to moving these bills.

Today I am pleased to introduce the Fiscal Year 2027 Legislative Branch Appropriation bill for the committee’s consideration.

I would like to remind our Members that this bill marks another step of many, towards providing final FY27 funding for the offices and agencies within the legislative branch of our government. As we worked within our allocation, we did our best to respond to the priorities of the Members in executing their constitutional duties, while supporting the operations of the Congress, the Capitol Complex, and the people who serve it.

This bill provides $5.4 billion for House and Joint Items; in keeping with longstanding tradition, we leave Senate items for the other body’s consideration.

I want to take a moment to note a few priorities for Members on both sides of the aisle. First, we maintain the new Member security program, increase funding for the U.S. Capitol Police, fully fund the request from the Office of Legislative Counsel, increase funding for the Green and Gold Congressional Aide Program, and the Members’ Representational Allowance to account for rising costs across the nation and to assist with workforce retention and institutional knowledge.

This bill also supports the addition of new primary services for female Members of Congress through the Office of the Attending Physician, continues the ongoing investment for the critical renovation of the Rayburn House Office Building, and provides for the employees and programs of the Library of Congress and the essential services they provide the Congress.

I’d like to thank all Members for their requests, especially our Subcommittee Members for their contributions and engagement, and the Subcommittee staff. These efforts have resulted in this Fiscal Year 2027 Legislative Branch bill. I look forward to continuing to work together in the days ahead as we move the bill through the legislative process both here in the House and in final negotiations with the Senate.

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Congressman Valadao Restores Ownership of Historic Land to Tulare County

Tue, 19 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman David Valadao (CA-22) introduced the Tulare Youth Recreation and Women’s History Enhancement Act alongside Congressman Vince Fong (CA-20). This bill authorizes the sale of two parcels of lands from Union Pacific Railroad to Tulare County in order to restore the City Skate Park and historic Tulare Women’s Club.

“For years, the Tulare Skate Park and the historic Tulare Women’s Club have been important community spaces, but outdated ownership restrictions have prevented the City from making long-overdue improvements,” said Congressman Valadao. “These parcels were originally set aside for railroad construction more than 150 years ago, and it’s past time to transfer ownership to the City so these facilities can be properly upgraded for future generations. I appreciate Union Pacific’s partnership in helping move this solution forward, and I look forward to seeing these sites continue to serve Tulare families and preserve the community’s history for years to come.”

“Tulare is a community with a proud history, strong values and a bright future, and I'm honored to support this legislation alongside my friend Congressman Valadao,” said Rep. Fong. “The Tulare Youth Recreation and Women's History Enhancement Act invests in the people and places that make our community stronger by eliminating barriers so Tulare can celebrate its history and enrich the lives of residents for generations to come. It's a win for our community and our history and I'm proud to support it."

“The City of Tulare is immensely grateful for Congressman Valadao’s action to preserve two valued community assets and ensure they remain in local hands for generations to come. The Tulare Historic Women’s Clubhouse has long been a landmark that reflects our city’s history and civic identity, while the adjacent Rotary Skate Plaza serves as an important recreational space for Tulare’s youth and families. Bringing these properties under City ownership will allow us to protect, improve, and fully activate these sites for the benefit of our community. We appreciate the leadership of our Congressional delegation in advancing a practical, community-focused solution that recognizes the importance of the City’s commitment to historic preservation and our sense of community, ensuring these properties continue serving the people of Tulare as places of gathering, recreation, and community pride," said Mayor Patrick Isherwood.

Background:

The Tulare Youth Recreation and Women’s History Enhancement Act, first introduced in the 116th Congress, would authorize the City of Tulare to acquire ownership of two parcels of land currently held by Union Pacific Railroad. Originally retained in 1866 for railroad construction, the parcels have remained subject to federal reversionary interests, limiting the City’s ability to improve and develop the sites. By authorizing the conveyance of the Tulare Railroad Proposed Parcels and relinquishing the United States’ reversionary interest, the legislation would enable the City to expand youth recreational opportunities and enhance efforts to commemorate women’s history in Tulare.

Read the full bill here.

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Congressman Valadao Votes to Fully Fund Benefits for Central Valley Servicemembers and Veterans

Fri, 15 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman David Valadao (CA-22) released the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Fiscal Year 2027 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act. This bill includes critical investments to modernize military infrastructure, support combat readiness, and enhance the quality of life for our servicemembers and their families.

“As a member of the House Committee on Appropriations, I was proud to support the Fiscal Year 2027 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act,” said Congressman Valadao. “Our servicemembers and veterans have made great sacrifices in defense of our nation, and Congress has a responsibility to ensure they have access to the benefits they’ve earned. This bill fully funds veterans’ healthcare and benefits programs, invests in critical quality-of-life improvements for servicemembers and their families, and continues efforts to advance construction of the new Bakersfield Community Based Outpatient Clinic. As the first FY27 funding package to pass the House, this legislation reflects our commitment to those who serve, and I look forward to continuing to work with my colleagues to move the remaining appropriations bills forward.”

Key Takeaways:

Fully funds veterans' healthcare programs
Fully funds veterans' benefits
Reaffirms our commitment to the construction of the Bakersfield Community Based Outpatient Clinic
Maintains funding for research, mental health programs, and other programs relied upon by veterans
Invests over $2 billion in capital improvements for VA Medical Facilities and four national cemeteries
Provides resources to improve mental health and suicide prevention among veterans
Fully funds the Community Care account, which empowers veterans to seek specialty care to meet their unique needs
Invests $90 million for the design of barracks and child development centers to address current deficiencies
Funds improvements in Department of Defense family housing for active servicemembers and their families

Background:

The FY27 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act includes a total discretionary allocation of $157 billion, which is nearly $4 billion (3%) above the FY26 enacted level. This bill also provides $323.9 billion for mandatory programs, for a total of $469.49 billion in overall funding. Last month, the FY27 bill was approved by the full House Appropriations Committee with a unanimous vote of 58 to 0.

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Congressman Valadao Introduces Tax Credit to Offset Early Expenses for New Families

Wed, 13 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman David Valadao (CA-22) introduced the bipartisan Supporting Newborn Parents Act of 2026 to create a newborn tax credit, separate from the existing Child Tax Credit (CTC), to help new families cover the significant costs associated with welcoming a child. In the United States, pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care alone can cost families thousands of dollars, and expenses during a child's first year of life can exceed $17,000—especially in California. This legislation would provide immediate, targeted relief to help ease the financial burden on parents during one of the most important and expensive times in their lives. Original co-leads of the bill include Reps. Tom Suozzi (NY-03), Blake Moore (UT-01), and Debbie Dingell (MI-06).

“One of the most exciting moments for any expecting family is preparing to welcome a new child, but unexpected expenses can quickly add up and leave new parents facing costs far beyond what they planned,” said Congressman Valadao. “As a father of three, I know how quickly costs can pile up—from diapers and clothing to strollers, childcare, and other essentials during a baby’s first year. While the existing Child Tax Credit has provided important relief for many working families, parents often need support long before tax season arrives. That’s why I’m proud to lead the bipartisan Supporting Newborn Parents Act of 2026, which would provide up to $2,000 per newborn as an advance payment to help families cover the immediate costs that come with welcoming a child into the world. This commonsense bill gives working parents greater financial flexibility and peace of mind so they can focus on growing their family instead of worrying about how to make ends meet.”

“Welcoming a new baby into the world should be one of the happiest moments in a family’s life, not one filled with fear about how to pay the bills,” said Congressman Suozzi. “At a time when so many Americans are struggling with the rising cost of living, this bipartisan bill will support young families and provide immediate, practical relief to working parents as they handle those critical first expenses.”

“As a father of four, I know how quickly expenses add up when a new child arrives: diapers, car seats, strollers, clothing, formula, and the unexpected costs that come during the first year,” said Congressman Moore. “I’m excited to introduce the Supporting Newborn Parents Act to build on policies in the Working Families Tax Cuts, like the increased Child Tax Credit, by creating an additional tax credit for working parents of up to $2,000 per newborn child. This credit will help new and growing families by creating a financial cushion to meet their baby’s needs when they need it most.”

“Bringing home a newborn should be a moment of pure love and wonder, not financial stress,” said Congresswoman Dingell. “This legislation puts tax dollars back into the wallets of working families when they need it most, helping to cover everything from diapers to doctor’s visits. I am proud to support this effort, because every family deserves peace of mind in those first precious moments.”

The Supporting Newborn Parents Act of 2026 would:

Create a standalone tax credit of up to $2,000 for families welcoming a newborn child, separate from the existing Child Tax Credit (CTC).
Ensure low- and middle-income working parents can qualify for the credit, with benefits increasing alongside earned income.
Allow families to receive the credit either as part of their annual tax refund or as an advance payment shortly after a child is born.
Give parents flexibility to calculate eligibility using either their current-year or prior-year income.
Align eligibility rules and income thresholds with the Child Tax Credit to simplify administration and avoid sudden benefit cutoffs.
Adjust the credit amount over time to account for inflation.

Supporting organizations include the Niskanen Center, Save the Children, Third Way, American Principles Project, Bread for the World, Searchlight Institute, Bakersfield Pregnancy Center, Community Action Partnership of Kern (CAPK), First 5 Kern, and Adventist Health.

“A newborn credit helps parents weather the turbulence of their baby’s first year. This bill gives families the flexibility to make choices that work best for them at a critical moment. We thank Representatives Valadao, Suozzi, Blake Moore, and Dingell for their leadership in supporting their commitment to supporting working families,” said Leah Sargeant, Senior Fellow, Niskanen Center.

“Save the Children is proud to support the Supporting Newborn Parents Act of 2026. This legislation recognizes the importance of supporting families during the earliest days of a child’s life, as well as the economic stress that can come with it. It’s a commonsense policy that supports hardworking families, including those in rural communities, and helps ensure every child has a strong start from day one,” said Allison Dembeck, Head of Policy, Save the Children.

“The last thing new parents should have to worry about is how to pay for a hospital bill or a car seat. As costs rise, families need real support at one of the most important moments in a child’s life. That’s why we’re proud to endorse the Supporting Newborn Parents Act and grateful to Representatives Valadao, Suozzi, Dingell, and Moore for their leadership in easing the financial burden on new parents,” said Curran McSwigan, Deputy Director of the Economic Program, Third Way.

“American Principles Project is proud to endorse the Supporting Newborn Parents Act. This bipartisan bill delivers real help to working parents exactly when the affordability crisis hits hardest — right after welcoming a new child. This $2,000 newborn tax credit will help alleviate the pain of hospital bills, diapers, and lost wages without punishing work or marriage, while offering flexible payments and a simple process. The vast majority of Americans agree: we need more babies and stronger families. This smart, pro-family proposal would deliver relief today and invest in our future. Congress should pass it,” said Jon Schweppe, Senior Advisor, American Principles Project.

"Bread for the World applauds the introduction of the Supporting Newborn Parents Act of 2026, which will be a critical tool in addressing food insecurity for families. This will be a beacon of hope for families in a financially vulnerable season of life: when they are welcoming new children into their lives. Congress’s continued support for and expansion of tax credits for families is critical for sustaining positive outcomes, reducing child poverty, and ending hunger," said Eugene Cho, CEO, Bread for the World.

“Parents should be able to focus on bonding with their baby in the first months after birth. Too often, though, this period of life is marked by financial insecurity as new expenses hit the pocket book. A newborn credit—providing up to $2,000 on top of the typical Child Tax Credit (CTC) in the first year of life—is a smart way to support those American families. The Searchlight Institute applauds this bipartisan effort,” said Will Raderman, Policy Director, Searchlight Institute.

“The Bakersfield Pregnancy Center is grateful for the Bi-partisan bill "Supporting Newborn Parents Act of 2026". As a Kern County Primary Care Clinic-Free, with services specific to Pregnancy and Sexual health, we see first-hand the challenges our clients face in welcoming a new baby into their life. This tax credit will help build nation committed to supporting moms and dads, equipping them with needed financial resources so that choosing to have a child is natural, expected and celebrated,” said Erin Rogers, Executive Director, Bakersfield Pregnancy Center.

“Community Action Partnership of Kern (CAPK) supports the Supporting Newborn Parents Act of 2026 for its focus on strengthening families at a critical time. By easing financial strain for new parents, this legislation will allow our agency to better serve the community and enhance the effectiveness of our existing programs by helping move people out of poverty and towards self-sufficiency,” said Jeremy Tobias, Chief Executive Officer, Community Action Partnership of Kern (CAPK).

“The Supporting Newborn Parents Act provides an important lifeline for families navigating the early stages of parenthood. A child’s earliest months and years are critical to healthy development, and we must continue creating meaningful support systems for parents and caregivers. As the costs of childbirth, postpartum care, and child care continue to rise, this legislation reflects an important investment in Central Valley families. Thank you to Congressman Valadao for his leadership on this issue," said Amy Travis, Executive Director, First 5 Kern.

"Adventist Health strongly supports the Supporting Newborn Parents Act of 2026, which would provide a refundable tax credit of up to $2,000 per newborn to help ease the significant financial strain experienced by many of the rural, low-income, and working families we serve. By delivering timely, flexible support during a critical period, this legislation will help strengthen family stability and promote healthier starts for newborns across our communities," said Julia Drefke, MPA, Public Affairs Executive, Adventist Health.

“In an era of declining family formation, we need action to support new parents during a vulnerable and volatile time of their life. This bill would support parents of newborns in a direct, visible way, helping make America a meaningfully more welcoming place to have a child. If it passes, it would become the most high-impact piece of pro-family legislation in a generation,” said Patrick T. Brown, Fellow, Ethics and Public Policy Center.

"Babies come with new expenses and disruptions to work. What they don't come with is a check to pay for all of that. This bill is a long-overdue opportunity to fix that mismatch, and help American families start their lives as parents on a strong footing,” said Lyman Stone, Senior Fellow and Director of the Pronatalism Initiative, Institute for Family Studies.

“Working families are the backbone of this country, and federal policy should reflect that. BPC Action is excited to see Reps Valadao, Suozzi, Moore and Dingell focusing on this critical issue. Investing in families is essential and Congress must continue bipartisan engagement on these issues to meet the needs of families in a fiscally responsible manner,” said Michele Stockwell, President, Bipartisan Policy Center (BPC) Action.

Background:

Working families across the United States rely on a range of family benefit programs, including the Child Tax Credit (CTC), Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit (CDCTC), and Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). Yet despite this support, a critical gap remains in the months immediately following a child’s birth—a period when families face significant new expenses while household income declines by an average of 10 percent. The Supporting Newborn Parents Act of 2026 would address this gap by establishing a newborn tax credit to complement existing family benefits. This credit would provide timely financial support to help parents cover hospital bills, purchase essential supplies, and manage the financial strain that often accompanies the arrival of a new child.

Read the full bill here.

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House Passes Legislation to Combat Organized Supply Chain Theft and Retail Crime

Tue, 12 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON – Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 2853, the Combating Organized Retail Crime (CORCA) Act. This bipartisan bill was introduced by Congressman David Valadao (CA-22) and Reps. Dave Joyce (OH-14), Susie Lee (NV-03), Brad Schneider (IL-10), Dina Titus (NV-01), Laurel Lee (FL-15), Lou Correa (CA-46), and Michael Baumgartner (WA-05). The CORCA Act takes important steps to strengthen legal tools for law enforcement and crack down on interstate and transnational crime.

The CORCA Act builds off initiatives included in the Safeguarding our Supply Chains Act, which was introduced by Congressman David Valadao and Congressman Brad Schneider (IL-10) in the 118th Congress.

“Organized retail crime and cargo theft are hurting small businesses and families across the Central Valley,” said Congressman Valadao. “These are coordinated criminal operations that put public safety at risk, disrupt supply chains, and drive-up costs for consumers. The CORCA Act gives law enforcement stronger tools to investigate and dismantle organized theft rings, and I’m especially proud to see language from my Safeguarding our Supply Chains Act included. This Police Week, I’m honored to help pass this bipartisan bill to hold criminals accountable and support the law enforcement officers working every day to keep our communities safe.”

The Combating Organized Retail Crime Act would:

Strengthen legal tools for law enforcement by allowing criminal forfeitures for interstate shipment, transportation of stolen goods, or sale of stolen goods convictions
Expand money laundering statutes
Enable prosecution of organized retail and supply chain groups using interstate or foreign commerce to facilitate crimes
Mandate the creation of the Organized Retail and Supply Chain Crime Coordination Center within Homeland Security Investigations (HIS) and the Department of Homeland Security

Background:

Sophisticated criminal organizations have been increasingly involved in theft, fraud, and other property crimes against retail stores and various components of the supply chain. These crimes have escalated in scope and impact, threatening the national economy, consumer safety, and public security. According to the National Retail Federation, retail larceny incidents increased by 93% from 2019 to 2023, and stores lost $121.6 billion to retail theft in 2023. This surge in retail crime is often orchestrated by organized groups to resell stolen goods through physical and online marketplaces, further fueling illicit profits and financing additional criminal enterprises.

At the same time, product manufacturers and supply chains are experiencing a rise in organized cargo theft across rails, roads, and the various distribution points across the United States. CargoNet reported a 27% increase in cargo theft incidents in 2024 over 2023. These thefts range from large-scale physical theft of goods from containers and storage to sophisticated cybercriminal methods that divert shipments to illicit receivers. This causes significant financial losses and operational supply chain disruptions.

Read the full bill here.

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