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House to Consider Continuing Resolution to Extend Federal Funding Amid Fiscal Uncertainty

House to Consider Continuing Resolution to Extend Federal Funding Amid Fiscal Uncertainty

The U.S. House of Representatives is set to consider a continuing resolution (CR) this week to extend funding for federal programs until December 4. This measure is intended to prevent a government shutdown as Congress has not finalized the fiscal year 2027 spending bills. The CR would maintain funding at current levels, allowing more time for negotiations. House Democrats, led by Appropriations Committee Ranking Member Rosa DeLauro, are awaiting a list of 'anomalies' from the White House, which would identify programs needing short-term funding boosts. The Senate is also preparing a CR, with ongoing debates over spending priorities, particularly between defense and non-defense allocations.
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Hegseth is facing questions from senators over funding for the Iran war

Hegseth is facing questions from senators over funding for the Iran war

Senators launched pointed remarks in a hearing with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth over the U.S. war against Iran
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US imposes new 50% tariffs on some Canadian products

US imposes new 50% tariffs on some Canadian products

July 20 (Reuters) - The United States is imposing a tariff of 50% on a wide range of Canadian products in response to what it called Canada's "discriminatory treatment" of U.S. cars, alcohol, and dairy, according to the White House. U.S.
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U.S. Senate Committee Advances WRDA 2026 to Enhance Water Infrastructure Cybersecurity

U.S. Senate Committee Advances WRDA 2026 to Enhance Water Infrastructure Cybersecurity

The U.S. Senate Environment and Public Works Committee has unanimously approved the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2026. This bipartisan legislation, introduced by Senators Shelley Moore Capito, Sheldon Whitehouse, Kevin Cramer, Angela Alsobrooks, and Adam Schiff, authorizes 61 feasibility studies and 15 new or modified U.S. Army Corps of Engineers construction projects. These projects focus on flood risk management, navigation, and ecosystem restoration. Additionally, the bill reauthorizes the Environmental Protection Agency’s drinking water and wastewater infrastructure programs, including the State Revolving Funds, and includes provisions to strengthen cybersecurity for critical water systems. The bill aims to enhance water resources infrastructure and increase access to clean and safe drinking water nationwide.
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Senator Durbin Criticizes Senate's Focus on Nominations Over Legislation

Senator Durbin Criticizes Senate's Focus on Nominations Over Legislation

Senator Dick Durbin, a long-serving Democratic whip from Illinois, has expressed concerns about the U.S. Senate's increasing focus on nominations rather than legislation. According to a review by NOTUS, the Senate has been voting more frequently on Cabinet and judicial appointments than on legislative matters, a trend that has been growing since the Senate lowered the threshold for most federal judges and executive branch nominations to a simple majority in 2013. By the end of 2024, nominations accounted for over 60% of roll-call votes, compared to less than 20% before 2013. Durbin noted that this shift has detracted from the Senate's legislative responsibilities. Political scientists attribute this change to increased polarization and a reduction in competitive seats, which has made bipartisan collaboration less appealing.
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US senators at airshow to reassure foreign defense contractors, urge tariff-free trade

US senators at airshow to reassure foreign defense contractors, urge tariff-free trade

By David Shepardson FARNBOROUGH, England, July 20 (Reuters) - A bipartisan group of nine U.S. senators on Monday sought to reassure defense contractors from American allies that growing demand for their products is real and urged the Trump administration not to impose tariffs on aerospace products.
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The Vietnam-Era Law That Changed U.S. Military Decision-Making

The Vietnam-Era Law That Changed U.S. Military Decision-Making

The War Powers Resolution of 1973, often referred to as the War Powers Act, is a significant piece of legislation aimed at balancing the powers of ...
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Congress Urged to Pass Permitting Reform to Boost Solar and Storage Projects

Congress Urged to Pass Permitting Reform to Boost Solar and Storage Projects

The Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) is advocating for Congress to pass permitting reform to expedite the development of solar and storage projects in the United States. Current bureaucratic hurdles, particularly those imposed by the Department of the Interior, are delaying projects, threatening grid reliability, and increasing electricity costs. SEIA estimates that over 450 solar projects, representing more than 36% of new planned power capacity, are at risk due to these delays. The association argues that streamlining the permitting process would lower electricity costs, enhance grid reliability, and unlock significant American investment in renewable energy infrastructure.
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America already tried permanent daylight saving time. It lasted less than a year. Could it work now?

America already tried permanent daylight saving time. It lasted less than a year. Could it work now?

The twice-yearly changing of the clocks could be a thing of the past if legislation currently in Congress that calls for permanent daylight time makes it through
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U.S. Trade Representative Highlights Utah's Role in Rare-Earth Mineral Production

U.S. Trade Representative Highlights Utah's Role in Rare-Earth Mineral Production

U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer visited Utah to highlight the state's role in producing rare-earth minerals, which are critical for defense technology. Greer praised Ionic Mineral Technologies for discovering one of the largest deposits of rare-earth minerals in the U.S. The visit is part of the Trump administration's 'Made-in-America' vision, aiming to reduce reliance on foreign imports for essential resources. Greer also discussed the impact of tariffs on local industries and the importance of maintaining domestic production capabilities.
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Darline Graham Appointed to U.S. Senate, Potentially Influencing Disability Policy

Darline Graham Appointed to U.S. Senate, Potentially Influencing Disability Policy

Darline Graham has been appointed to serve the remainder of her late brother Lindsey Graham's U.S. Senate term. Known for her work in vocational rehabilitation, Graham has not previously held elected office. Her career has focused on helping people with disabilities overcome employment barriers. Despite her lack of political experience, colleagues and disability advocates express confidence in her capabilities. They describe her as a dedicated civil servant with deep knowledge of disability issues. Graham's appointment comes at a critical time for disability rights, with potential Medicaid cuts threatening services. She has pledged to support the president and continue her brother's efforts.
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Senator says US daylight saving time bill faces tough fight

Senator says US daylight saving time bill faces tough fight

By David Shepardson FARNBOROUGH, England, July 20 (Reuters) - A bill passed by the U.S. House of Representatives last week to make daylight saving time permanent will face a tough fight in the Senate to win approval, a lawmaker said Monday.