Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick

Fitzpatrick, Quigley Lead Bipartisan Effort to Stop Sweeping Rollback of Endangered Species Protections

Fri, 205 Jul 2026 12:00:00 EST

The Safeguarding Endangered Species Act would overturn the Administration’s rule eliminating longstanding protections against habitat destruction that kills or injures imperiled wildlife

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressmen Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-1 and Mike Quigley (D-IL-5), ), Co-Chairs of the Congressional Animal Protection Caucus, introduced the Safeguarding Endangered Species Act, bipartisan legislation to nullify the Administration’s recently finalized rule weakening the Endangered Species Act’s protections against destructive habitat loss.

For more than five decades, the Endangered Species Act has prohibited the unlawful “take” of threatened and endangered wildlife. Since 1975, federal regulations have recognized that “harm” can include significant habitat destruction or degradation that actually kills or injures wildlife by disrupting essential activities such as breeding, feeding, and sheltering.

The Administration’s final rule rescinds that definition, narrowing how “harm” will be interpreted and weakening the law’s ability to address habitat destruction that results in the actual injury or death of threatened and endangered wildlife.

The Fitzpatrick-Quigley legislation would nullify the rule and preserve the longstanding, science-based principle that protecting an imperiled species requires protecting the habitat essential to its survival and recovery.

“Congress enacted the Endangered Species Act to prevent extinction—not to document it after the damage has already been done,” said Fitzpatrick. “For more than fifty years, our nation’s protections have reflected a basic legal, scientific, and commonsense truth: when habitat destruction actually kills or injures protected wildlife, that destruction is harm. The Administration’s rule would erase that longstanding safeguard through regulatory action and leave vulnerable species exposed at the precise moment the law is intended to protect them.”

“As Co-Chair of the Congressional Animal Protection Caucus, I am leading this bipartisan effort to stop that rollback and draw a clear line: no Administration—Republican or Democratic—should be permitted to hollow out a landmark law enacted by Congress,” Fitzpatrick continued. “We must, and will, act to preserve the full force of the Endangered Species Act, protect the habitats wildlife need to survive, and uphold our responsibility to the generations that will inherit America’s natural legacy.”

“I’m proud to join Congressman Fitzpatrick in leading the bipartisan Safeguarding Endangered Species Act. This essential legislation will reverse the Trump administration’s recent rule eliminating habitat protections outlined in the 1975 Endangered Species Act,” said Quigley. “As Co-Chair of the Congressional Animal Protection Caucus, I’m honored to continue fighting for our wildlife and the endangered species around us.”

Support for the Legislation

“We cannot effectively protect vulnerable species without considering one of the top reasons these animals are disappearing—habitat degradation. Yet that is the reality of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s attempt to abandon a definition of ‘harm’ that has stood for decades. In a time of increasing biodiversity loss, we should not be intentionally weakening our strongest tool to combat this growing crisis. We urge Congress to pass this bill ensuring safeguards remain in place for wildlife and their habitats,” said Sara Amundson, President, Humane World Action Fund.

“There’s no way around it: Taking away an animal’s home or source of food is causing harm. Habitat loss and degradation are the top threats to wildlife," said Stephanie Wein, Clean Water & Conservation Advocate for PennEnvironment. “Preventing the Endangered Species Act from protecting a species’ habitat eliminates our most valuable tool to conserve America’s wildlife for generations to come. That betrays the entire reason for having an Endangered Species Act.”

“The attempt to strip habitat destruction from the Endangered Species Act’s definition of ‘harm’ is one of the most reckless rollbacks of wildlife protections in decades," said Susan Holmes, Executive Director, Endangered Species Coalition. "We are grateful to Representatives Fitzpatrick and Quigley for introducing a life-saving correction that restores the law’s longstanding safeguards. When nesting beaches disappear, sea turtles are harmed. When rivers are degraded, sturgeon are harmed. When habitat is destroyed, species like Monarch butterflies, manatees, and countless others are harmed. This bill recognizes that reality and puts endangered species protections back on solid scientific footing.”

“Defenders of Wildlife applauds this quick action by Reps. Fitzpatrick and Quigley to reverse this blatant attack on our nation’s cherished wildlife by the Trump administration,” said Mary Beth Beetham, Director of Legislative Affairs, Defenders of Wildlife. “This important legislation to overturn the administration’s elimination of habitat protections under the Endangered Species Act rightly recognizes that, to save imperiled wildlife and address the extinction crisis, we must protect the places where they live.”

“To protect at-risk wildlife, you must protect their homes,” said Oceana Campaign Manager Julia Singer. “Following the Trump administration’s attempt to fast-track extinctions by removing protections for habitat that endangered species need to survive, this bill would reverse this horrendous habitat decision. The Endangered Species Act is one of the nation's most effective conservation laws, saving 99% of species under its care. Oceana applauds Representative Fitzpatrick and Representative Quigley for their bipartisan leadership in upholding and defending this landmark law and urges other members of Congress to follow suit.”

"Save the Manatee Club strongly supports this important bill. Imperiled manatees' greatest long-term threat is habitat loss, particularly loss of warm-water and seagrass habitats that manatees require to survive. Restoring the 40-year-old regulatory definition of 'harm' will ensure that unwarranted and unsustainable habitat destruction will remain prohibited by the Endangered Species Act, consistent with the letter of the law and the drafters' original intent,” said Patrick Rose, Aquatic Biologist and Certified Public Manager, Executive Director, Save the Manatee Club.

Read the full bill text here.

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Fitzpatrick Statement on H.R. 9770, H. Con. Res. 113, and H. Con. Res. 89

Wed, 203 Jul 2026 12:00:00 EST

End the war. Pay our troops. Fund our government. Oppose any and all pay raises for elected officials. This should be the unequivocal position of every elected official in America.

I will continue to follow the law and will vote to enforce the War Powers Act of 1973, and I will support any clean resolutions following the statutory 60-day time period.

I will vote to continue to pay our troops, provide them with protective and defensive equipment, and ensure that our national defense inventory remains at safe levels.

I will continue to fund our government, oppose any and all government shutdowns, and ensure that all of our federal workers are always paid.

And I will always oppose any and all pay raises for elected officials. No exceptions.

Every single vote that I cast will reflect these basic, incontrovertible truths. And I call on all elected officials to do the same.

Fitzpatrick Secures House Passage of Bipartisan EARLY Act Reauthorization

Tue, 202 Jul 2026 12:00:00 EST

House passage marks a resounding bipartisan victory for women’s health, cancer prevention, and early detection

Washington, DC—Today, Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (R, PA-01), Co-Chair of the House Cancer Caucus, announced House passage of his bipartisan EARLY Act reauthorization—a major victory for women’s health, cancer prevention, and early detection.

The House-passed package renews proven programs that help young and high-risk women understand their breast cancer risk, recognize warning signs, and receive informed care sooner. It also includes the full provisions of Fitzpatrick’s bipartisan SCREENS for Cancer Act, expanding the pathway to breast and cervical cancer screening and diagnostic services for women facing financial, insurance, and other barriers to care.

“America has made extraordinary progress in preventing, detecting, and treating cancer, but that progress only matters if it reaches the people whose lives depend on it,” said Fitzpatrick. “Early detection remains one of the most effective tools we have to improve outcomes and save lives. No woman should miss that opportunity because she lacked the right information, her provider lacked the right resources, or cost and insurance barriers placed care beyond her reach. Closing those gaps has been a top priority of my work as Co-Chair of the House Cancer Caucus.”

“My mother and sister are breast cancer survivors, so this mission is deeply personal to me,” he continued. Their experience is a constant reminder that when women receive the right information and the right care at the right time, lives can change—and lives can be saved. This bipartisan vote is a major step forward for women and families across America. I urge my colleagues in the Senate to act with the same urgency and send this legislation to the President’s desk.”

Breast cancer remains the most common cancer among women. Young women, women of color, and women at elevated risk are too often diagnosed only after the disease has progressed—when treatment options are more limited and outcomes are worse.

Originally enacted in 2010, the Breast Cancer Education and Awareness Requires Learning Young Act supports targeted, CDC-led initiatives designed to reach young and high-risk women before cancer goes undetected.

The House-passed legislation, introduced along with Representatives Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01), Kathy Castor (FL-14), Debbie Dingell (MI-06), and Diana Harshbarger (TN-01), reauthorizes the EARLY Act through 2031, protecting three core programs:

The Bring Your Brave campaign, which uses the experiences of real women to increase awareness among women ages 18 to 44 about breast cancer risks, symptoms, and early detection;
The Young Breast Cancer Survivors Program, which supports organizations providing assistance and resources to young patients and survivors; and
Continuing medical education for health care providers, strengthening their ability to recognize risk and improve care for younger women at increased risk.

After 15 years of successful implementation, reauthorizing the EARLY Act will ensure these programs can continue reaching women before a diagnosis comes too late—giving patients and providers the knowledge needed to identify risks, recognize warning signs, and act sooner.

The reauthorization also includes Fitzpatrick’s bipartisan SCREENS for Cancer Act, introduced with Congressman Joe Morelle (D, NY-25). The measure reauthorizes and strengthens the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program through 2030.

Since its creation in 1991, the program has served more than 6.4 million people and provided more than 16.5 million breast and cervical cancer screening examinations. Those screenings have helped diagnose nearly 80,000 invasive breast cancers and approximately 5,300 invasive cervical cancers, while identifying hundreds of thousands of precancerous lesions.

The SCREENS for Cancer Act would:

Reauthorize the National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program through 2030 with $235 million in annual funding;
Improve access to breast and cervical cancer screening and diagnostic services;
Strengthen patient navigation and appropriate follow-up care;
Support evidence-based strategies proven to increase screening rates in health care settings;
Reduce barriers facing low-income, uninsured, underinsured, geographically isolated, and underserved communities;
Address disparities in breast and cervical cancer incidence and mortality; and
Require a Government Accountability Office study examining program utilization, eligibility, and barriers to screening access.

Together, the EARLY Act and the SCREENS for Cancer Act strengthen the full early-detection pathway—from helping women understand their risks and equipping providers to identify warning signs to ensuring more patients can access screening, diagnosis, and follow-up care.

The EARLY Act reauthorization is supported by more than 20 leading cancer prevention and patient advocacy organizations, including the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, Susan G. Komen, Living Beyond Breast Cancer, Sharsheret, the Brem Foundation, and the Prevent Cancer Foundation.

The legislation now advances to the United States Senate for consideration.

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Statement on the Loss of Servicemembers

Sun, 200 Jul 2026 12:00:00 EST

America’s servicemen and women are the guardians of liberty and the very best of our Nation—ordinary citizens who willingly accept extraordinary sacrifice.

This weekend, we mourn the loss of true American heroes who answered their country’s call with courage and honor. We pray for the safe return of missing servicemembers, the full recovery of those wounded, and every military family whose sacrifice is so often borne in quiet.

May we always prove worthy of the brave men and women who selflessly place themselves in harm’s way so that freedom may endure and peace may prevail.

House Unanimously Passes Fitzpatrick-Golden Bipartisan Bill To Ban Foreign Money In American Elections

Mon, 194 Jul 2026 12:00:00 EST

Fitzpatrick-authored legislation closes a dangerous loophole allowing foreign nationals to finance ballot initiatives, referenda, and recall elections

WASHINGTON, D.C. —Today, the U.S. House of Representatives unanimously passed the Stop Foreign Funds in Elections Act, bipartisan legislation led by Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-1) and Congressman Jared Golden (D-ME-2) to prohibit foreign nationals from financing state and local ballot initiatives, referenda, and recall elections.

The legislation, H.R. 3535, now advances to the Senate.

“The ballot is the instrument by which a free people govern themselves,” said Fitzpatrick. “No foreign government, foreign national, or foreign interest should have a hand in deciding the laws Americans live under. Today’s unanimous vote is an important step in our broader bipartisan work to protect the integrity of our elections, preserve the sovereignty of the American voter, and strengthen public faith in self-government. On this principle, there should be no division and no exception: American elections must be decided by American citizens alone. The Senate should now act with the same unity and send this bill to the President’s desk.”

Watch Fitzpatrick’s Floor Speech here.

Federal law already prohibits foreign nationals from financing candidate elections. However, it does not explicitly extend that prohibition to issue-based elections—including ballot initiatives, referenda, and recall elections—that can fundamentally alter the laws and institutions governing American communities.

The Stop Foreign Funds in Elections Act closes that loophole by amending the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971 to prohibit foreign-national contributions or expenditures in connection with any federal, state, or local ballot measure or recall election.

“Foreign interference does not become less dangerous simply because it is aimed at a referendum instead of a candidate,” Fitzpatrick continued. “A loophole in the law should never become an open door to foreign influence. This bill closes that door and ensures that, at every level of government, the laws Americans live under are shaped by American voices—not foreign money.”

Issue One’s Money in Politics Director Michael Beckel issued the following statement:

“Today’s vote makes it clear that nobody wants foreign money in U.S. elections. The bipartisan Stop Foreign Funds in Elections Act gives Americans much-needed confidence that our adversaries cannot buy influence in state and local ballot measures. This legislation ensures that limits to foreign money are applied consistently, including citizen-led ballot efforts, because the American people should decide elections — not foreign agents.

“We’re grateful for the leadership of Reps. Fitzpatrick and Golden, who have proven that bipartisan action to protect our elections from foreign interference is not just possible, it’s popular. Issue One applauds their effort to ensure foreign money doesn’t flow into elections at any level and close a campaign finance loophole that the Federal Election Commission has wanted Congress to shut for years.

“It is incumbent upon the Senate to move swiftly to pass this bill and send it to President Trump’s desk for his signature. This bipartisan legislation closes a dangerous loophole and sends a clear message that American democracy is not for sale.”

Read the text of the bill here.

Fitzpatrick’s Continued Election Reform Leadership

Congressman Fitzpatrick has long been at the forefront of bipartisan efforts to strengthen election integrity and restore public trust in government. The House passage of the Stop Foreign Funds in Elections Act marks the latest advance in that sustained reform agenda, including:

The Let America Vote Act – Guarantees the right to vote in all taxpayer-funded elections for U.S. citizens, regardless of political affiliation, and prohibits non-citizen voting.
The AI Ads Act – Bans the use of artificial intelligence to impersonate candidates or mislead voters.
The CLEAN Elections Act – Ends partisan gerrymandering by requiring independent redistricting commissions.
The Bipartisan Restoring Faith in Government Act – Prohibits members of Congress and their families from trading individual stocks.
The Restoring Faith in Elections Act, Securing Our Elections Act, and Election Day Act – Establish uniform national standards for voter ID, absentee ballots, election security, and create a federal holiday for Election Day.

Through these commonsense, bipartisan reforms, Congressman Fitzpatrick continues to lead the fight to protect every American vote, defend democratic institutions, and ensure our elections remain free from foreign interference and political manipulation.

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Fitzpatrick Expands National PFAS Fight, Leads Bipartisan Push to Remove Forever Chemicals from Food Packaging and Cosmetics

Thu, 190 Jul 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-1), Co-Chair of the Bipartisan PFAS Task Force and one of Congress’s leading voices in the fight against forever chemicals, is leading a new bipartisan push to eliminate PFAS from products Americans use every day.

The legislation targets two common pathways of exposure: cosmetics and personal care products used directly on the body, and food packaging that can place PFAS in close contact with the food Americans eat.

Together, the bills are part of Fitzpatrick’s larger effort to change the way America confronts PFAS: clean up what has already been contaminated, stop unnecessary exposure at the source, and demand accountability from those responsible.

“Since entering Congress, I have worked with affected families, local leaders, scientists, and advocates to force action on PFAS—and that fight has made one thing clear: we cannot wait for contamination to spread before we act,” said Fitzpatrick. “We have pushed for stronger drinking water protections, faster cleanup, greater transparency, and real accountability. Now we are taking the next step by cutting off unnecessary exposure at the source. Americans should be able to trust the products in their homes and the packaging around their food, and I will keep leading this fight until every community has the clean water, safe products, and accountability it deserves.”

Targeting PFAS in Cosmetics and Personal Care Products

Fitzpatrick was joined by Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (MI-06), his fellow PFAS Task Force Co-Chair, and Congresswoman Laura Friedman (CA-30) in introducing the bipartisan No PFAS in Cosmetics Act.

The legislation would require the Food and Drug Administration to ban the intentional use of PFAS in cosmetic products within 270 days of enactment.

“Americans should not have to wonder whether the products they use every day are exposing them to toxic chemicals,” said Fitzpatrick. “When dangerous substances can be removed from consumer products, there is no excuse for inaction. The No PFAS in Cosmetics Act is a clear, bipartisan step to protect families, strengthen consumer trust, and put public health first, ”said Fitzpatrick.

“PFAS chemicals are in products that we use every single day, including cosmetics and personal care products. Too often these dangerous chemicals are not disclosed on packaging and labels, meaning most Americans don’t even know they’re using them,” said Dingell. “Studies have linked PFAS chemicals to a variety of health hazards, and we need a strong, bipartisan effort to address this crisis. The No PFAS in Cosmetics Act takes important steps to protect consumers and prevent the continued proliferation of forever chemicals.”

"The science is clear: PFAS chemicals are linked to breast and other cancers, birth defects, hormone disruption, and organ damage — yet they're still hiding in the products we use every single day,” said Suzanne Price, CEO at Breast Cancer Prevention Partners. "We applaud Representatives Dingell, Fitzpatrick, and Friedman for stepping up where industry hasn't. The No PFAS in Cosmetics Act builds on the bipartisan momentum states have already built to phase PFAS out of consumer goods — protecting people from health harms no matter where they live, shop, or work."

Read the full bill text here.

Keeping Forever Chemicals Out of the Food Americans Eat

Fitzpatrick and Dingell also introduced the bipartisan Keep Food Containers Safe from PFAS Act, which would prohibit intentionally added PFAS in food packaging, including wrappers and containers designed to resist grease, water, and oil.

“Every day, families bring home takeout containers, wrappers, and food packaging that can contain intentionally added PFAS—putting toxic forever chemicals far too close to the food we eat. That is an unnecessary risk, and it is one we have the responsibility to eliminate. This bill takes these chemicals out of the equation by setting a clear national standard and stopping avoidable exposure at the source. We know enough about the dangers of PFAS to act with urgency, and protecting the health of the American people must always come first,” said Fitzpatrick.

“You shouldn’t have to worry about chemicals seeping from containers into your food,” said Dingell. “PFAS chemicals are in products that we use every single day, and most Americans don’t even know the risks or daily exposure they face. Several states have already passed laws banning PFAS in food packaging, now we need strong federal legislation to ensure hazardous chemicals are not allowed near the food we eat.”

Read the full bill text here.

Building on a National Record of PFAS Leadership

For Fitzpatrick, the latest legislation builds on years of bipartisan work shaped by the experiences of communities in Bucks and Montgomery Counties that have lived with the consequences of PFAS contamination firsthand.

As Co-Chair of the Bipartisan PFAS Task Force, Fitzpatrick has helped make Pennsylvania’s First District a driving force in the national response to forever chemicals—bringing together impacted families, scientists, veterans, water authorities, local leaders, and advocates to push for stronger federal standards, faster remediation, greater transparency, and real accountability.

His work has included:

Securing historic funding for PFAS cleanup and water infrastructure upgrades nationwide, including transformative projects in Bucks and Montgomery Counties.
Leading landmark legislation to increase transparency and oversight at the Department of Defense and the Environmental Protection Agency, hold polluters accountable, establish the first-ever national primary drinking water regulation, expedite the cleanup of contaminated military sites, fund municipal water treatment upgrades that remove PFAS at the source, and more.
Building a national coalition of affected families, community leaders, scientists, veterans, water authorities, and advocates to ensure impacted communities have a direct voice in federal policymaking.
Securing his bipartisan H.R. 3761 in the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act passed by the House, advancing the creation of a senior PFAS Coordinator at the Department of Defense dedicated to impacted defense communities and charged with strengthening community engagement, improving coordination, increasing transparency, and accelerating remediation at contaminated military sites nationwide.

Fitzpatrick Leads First-Of-Its-Kinds Bipartisan Bill to Ban Stock Trading and Prediction-Market Betting by Senior Officials Across All Three Branches of Government

Fri, 177 Jun 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, D.C.— Today, Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-1) partnered with Congresswoman Maggie Goodlander (D-NH-2) to introduce the Public Service Accountability Act, the first bipartisan bill of its kind to prohibit senior officials across all three branches of the federal government from trading individual stocks or participating in prediction markets for the duration of their federal service.

Unlike prior reform efforts focused primarily on Congress or stock trading alone, the Public Service Accountability Act would establish one clear, government-wide standard for Congress, the executive branch, and the federal judiciary—addressing both longstanding conflicts of interest and emerging avenues for officials to profit from positions of public trust.

For Fitzpatrick, a former FBI Special Agent and federal prosecutor who investigated public corruption, campaign finance violations, and election crimes, the legislation is a direct extension of his long-standing work to restore integrity, trust, and accountability to public institutions.

“Public service is a duty, not an investment strategy,” said Fitzpatrick. “The American people deserve to know that their leaders are making decisions based on the national interest, not personal financial gain. By closing loopholes around stock trading and prediction markets, this bipartisan legislation sets a clear standard across all three branches: if you are entrusted with public leadership, your obligation is to the people—not your portfolio.”

“Right now, senior American officials in some of the most powerful positions of public trust can sit in on sensitive briefings, shape policy, influence markets, and then personally profit from decisions that affect the American people,” said Goodlander. “That is wrong. Our bipartisan bill closes gaping loopholes and makes one commonsense rule crystal clear: people who hold public power must serve the public interest, not their own personal profits.”

Under current law, the standard penalty for violating federal disclosure rules is often just $200, and no Member of Congress has ever been prosecuted under the STOCK Act. The Public Service Accountability Act would replace symbolic fines with meaningful accountability by prohibiting covered officials from engaging in those activities while in federal service, requiring violators to forfeit any profits, and imposing an additional penalty equal to 10 percent of the value of the investment.

“Those entrusted with power should serve the public interest — not their own financial interests. Issue One strongly supports the bipartisan Public Service Accountability Act as a commonsense reform toward rebuilding public trust in our democratic institutions. Congress should act now and pass this bill,” said Nick Penniman, CEO and Founder of Issue One.

“Our government must proactively oppose any invitation to corruption, which requires all three branches to remain independent and make decisions that aren’t profit-driven, but in the public interest,” said Janice Luong, Policy Analyst at the Project On Government Oversight. “Government employees trading stocks and securities have been a top concern for the American public, and now prediction markets pose a new layer of corruption that Congress needs to crack down on.”

The Public Service Accountability Act is endorsed by Issue One and the Project On Government Oversight.

A one-pager on the legislation is available here.

Background:

The Public Service Accountability Act builds on Fitzpatrick’s long-standing work to strengthen ethics, transparency, and accountability in government.

Before serving in Congress, Fitzpatrick served as an FBI Special Agent and federal prosecutor, where his work focused on public corruption, campaign finance, and election crimes. That experience has shaped his approach to reform: public institutions cannot function if the people entrusted to lead them are allowed to operate under rules the public would never accept for anyone else.

In Congress, Fitzpatrick has led bipartisan efforts to ban Members of Congress from trading individual stocks and strengthen accountability for public officials. In 2023, he partnered with Representatives Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Raja Krishnamoorthi to introduce bipartisan legislation banning Members of Congress from trading individual stocks, helping lay the groundwork for the broader Restore Trust in Congress Act, introduced this past September.

On the first day of the 119th Congress, Fitzpatrick introduced a sweeping reform package focused on congressional accountability, fiscal responsibility, election integrity, and restoring public trust. Recognized as the most bipartisan Member of Congress for five consecutive years, Fitzpatrick has authored four constitutional amendments and seven targeted reform bills aimed at strengthening confidence in government.

The Public Service Accountability Act takes that work further by extending the principle beyond Congress to senior officials across all three branches of the federal government. By addressing both individual stock trading and prediction-market betting, the legislation confronts both long-standing conflicts of interest and new avenues for officials to benefit from public office, privileged information, and decisions made in the name of the American people.

Fitzpatrick-Backed Housing Reforms Head to President’s Desk, Marking Major Problem Solvers Caucus Affordability Win for PA-1 Families

Tue, 174 Jun 2026 12:00:00 EST

Washington, DC— Tonight, Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) helped secure final House passage of the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act, a sweeping bipartisan housing reform package that now heads to the President’s desk to be signed into law.

The legislation marks a major victory for Fitzpatrick’s affordability agenda and delivers on one of the central pillars of the Problem Solvers Caucus framework: expanding housing supply, lowering costs, modernizing outdated federal barriers, supporting veterans, and giving local communities the tools they need to meet the housing needs of working families.

The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act represents one of the most comprehensive federal housing reform efforts in decades. It directly addresses the structural drivers of America’s housing shortage— outdated regulations, duplicative inspections, permitting delays, financing bottlenecks, underused properties, barriers facing veterans and first-time homebuyers, and federal rules that too often slow responsible local development.

Earlier this year, Fitzpatrick helped advance the original House housing package, which included several of his housing priorities. The final package passed today now includes additional Fitzpatrick-led measures, further strengthening the bill’s focus on expanding supply, lowering costs, supporting veterans, revitalizing neighborhoods, and helping communities turn vacant and underused properties into affordable homes.

The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act includes the following Fitzpatrick-led provisions that will deliver for PA-1, including:

Accelerating Home Building Act (H.R. 5907): Authorizes HUD to award competitive grants to local governments and tribal entities to adopt pre-reviewed, ready-to-use housing designs for mixed-income developments of up to 25 units. By shortening permitting timelines and reducing costly delays, this reform accelerates responsible homebuilding with 10% of funding reserved for rural communities.
Choice in Affordable Housing Act (H.R. 1981): Modernizes the Housing Choice Voucher program by eliminating duplicative inspections and allowing remote reviews in rural and small jurisdictions. By reducing red tape and encouraging landlord participation, this reform expands housing access for working families.
VA Home Loan Awareness Act (H.R. 2362): Requires mortgage applications to clearly notify eligible applicants that they may qualify for a VA Home Loan, ensuring veterans and service members are fully informed of benefits they have earned.
RESIDE Act (H.R. 5591): Creates a new pilot program providing local communities with grants to rehabilitate vacant, abandoned, and underutilized buildings into affordable homes. This provision helps communities transform blight into housing supply, revitalize neighborhoods, and bring more homes within reach for working families.
Veterans Affairs Loan Informed Disclosure Act, or VALID Act (H.R. 3694): Ensures veterans are able to clearly compare VA Home Loan options alongside conventional and FHA mortgage products during the homebuying process. This reform helps prevent veterans from missing out on benefits they have earned simply because those options were not clearly disclosed.
Increasing Housing in Opportunity Zones Act (H.R. 7791): Directs federal housing resources toward communities that need investment by allowing HUD to give additional consideration to eligible housing projects in Opportunity Zones. This reform supports neighborhood revitalization, encourages responsible development, and helps expand housing supply in areas positioned for long-term economic growth.

“Housing affordability is one of the defining economic challenges of our time because it shapes something deeply American: whether families who work hard, save responsibly, and play by the rules can still build a stable life in the communities they call home,” said Fitzpatrick. “Across Bucks and Montgomery Counties, I have sat down with realtors, home builders, lenders, local officials, veterans, seniors, young families, and first-time homebuyers who are living this challenge firsthand. Those conversations became the foundation of this work. We listened to the people closest to the problem, identified the barriers driving costs and limiting supply, and worked together to develop practical solutions that can actually move the needle.”

“When Congressman Suozzi and I launched the Problem Solvers Caucus Affordability Agenda, we were clear that affordability could not be treated as a talking point. It had to become a governing agenda,” Fitzpatrick continued. “This was exactly the kind of result we were working toward: bipartisan legislation that can pass, become law, and lower costs not by growing Washington, but by removing the obstacles that make housing harder to build, finance, access, and afford. The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act proves that approach works. It expands supply, cuts red tape, modernizes outdated federal programs, supports veterans, and gives communities the tools to turn vacant and underused properties into affordable homes. This is a major bipartisan victory for our affordability agenda, a win for serious problem-solving, and a meaningful step toward keeping the promise of home within reach for working families.”

“Realtors are on the front lines of this housing crisis every day. We see young families priced out of starter homes, seniors unable to downsize, and working households competing in markets where supply has simply not kept pace with demand. When housing production slows, affordability slips further out of reach — and communities feel it,” said Chris Beadling, PA-1 Constituent, Broker of Quinn & Wilson Realtors in Montgomery County, 2025 NAR Regional VP (Region 2), and Past President of Pennsylvania Association of REALTORS and Bucks County Association of REALTORS. “Congressman Fitzpatrick has been a longtime partner in addressing these challenges, working directly with Pennsylvania Realtors and local housing leaders to understand the regulatory delays, financing constraints, and outdated policies limiting housing growth. The Housing for the 21st Century Act takes meaningful steps to remove unnecessary barriers, modernize federal housing programs, and strengthen the ability of community banks to finance responsible local development. By expanding supply and empowering local lenders, this legislation will help increase housing opportunities and bring affordability back within reach for Pennsylvania families. We appreciate Congressman Fitzpatrick’s longtime partnership, support, and commitment to advancing policies that support sustainable housing growth across our Commonwealth.”

Background

Fitzpatrick has consistently led the charge on affordability, which remains his top priority for Pennsylvania’s First District. Earlier this year, alongside his Co-Chair of the Problem Solvers Caucus, Representative Tom Suozzi, he introduced a comprehensive bipartisan Affordability Agenda that outlines more than 40 commonsense bills capable of delivering immediate relief across five critical areas of household budgets: health care, housing, energy, child care, and food.

Each proposal in the framework has broad bipartisan support and is designed to pass both chambers of Congress, reflecting Fitzpatrick’s belief that lowering costs for working families must rise above partisanship.

The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act now turns that commitment into results, delivering one of the most significant bipartisan housing affordability victories in a generation and advancing the Problem Solvers Caucus mission to move practical, two-party solutions from idea to law.

In addition to the Housing for the 21st Century Act, his recent bipartisan efforts include:

HELP Copays Act – Legislation to lower the cost of life-saving prescription medications for patients with rare, serious, and chronic conditions.
Accelerating Home Building Act – Bipartisan, bicameral legislation aimed at increasing housing supply and improving affordability nationwide.
Caring for Our Seniors Act – Addresses the rising cost of senior care while strengthening the long-term care workforce.
Affordable Child Care Act – Doubles key tax credits to help working families access quality, affordable child care and put money directly back into parents’ pockets.

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House Passes Fitzpatrick-Led Bipartisan Ukraine Support Act

Thu, 155 Jun 2026 12:00:00 EST

Washington, DC – Today, Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-1), Co-Chair of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus, along with Representatives Gregory W. Meeks, Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee; Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05); Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), Co-Chair of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus; Bill Keating (MA-09), Ranking Member of the Europe Subcommittee; Don Bacon (NE-02); and Kevin Kiley (CA-03) issued the following statement on the passage of the bipartisan Ukraine Support Act, the first comprehensive legislation to support Ukraine and impose sanctions on Russia to pass the House in the 119^th Congress.

“Putin is counting on America to grow tired, divided, and distracted. Today, with a historic bipartisan vote, the House sent the opposite message,” said Fitzpatrick, Co-Chair of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus. “Ukraine is fighting for its sovereignty and survival, but the stakes do not stop at Ukraine’s borders. Standing with Ukraine is a matter of American security, allied strength, and moral clarity—and it tells the world that aggression will not be met with hesitation or retreat. From the start of Russia’s illegal war of terror, I have worked to ensure America’s policy is rooted in peace through strength: equipping Ukraine to win, holding Putin accountable, and ensuring brutality never becomes leverage. This legislation gives force to that principle, and I am grateful to my colleagues in the House who stood with us on the side of freedom. Now, the Senate must do the same.”

“Inaction on Ukraine ends now. Today’s bipartisan vote to pass the Ukraine Support Act demonstrates that the House stands with the Ukrainian people and that we will hold the criminal Russian regime accountable for its illegal war. I thank my Democratic colleagues and my Republican colleagues who’ve co-sponsored this bill, without whom this vote would not have been possible. And I especially thank the Ukrainian American community and all those Americans standing with Ukraine, for their tireless efforts to see this bill move forward. Now the Senate must follow suit, and work with our bipartisan group in the House to deliver the most comprehensive package possible to the President’s desk for his immediate signature” said Ranking Member Meeks.

“Today’s vote was a victory for Ukraine, for the United States, for freedom, and for international law. It was made possible because Democrats and Republicans came together behind an effort that is bigger than partisan politics – it’s about whether our nation will hold firm to its ideals and stand up for democracy, and I thank my Republican colleagues who joined us. The people of Ukraine are demonstrating that they have what it takes to win this war and outlast what Vladimir Putin can throw at them. But they cannot do it alone. Europe has stepped up, and America has been a critical partner – but we have not approved a major Ukraine-assistance package since 2024. It’s time for the Senate to follow the House and act quickly on this $8 billion in security assistance and broad, sweeping sanctions so Ukrainians can continue to push ahead toward victory,” said Hoyer.

“The Ukraine Support Act which the House passed today with Democratic, Republican, and Independent support was a choice between Liberty and Tyranny. Our Free World must stand tall against tyrants, not mollycoddle them. Liberty is not negotiable, It is fundamental," said Kaptur. "The war-torn people of Ukraine are not asking for charity, they’re asking for US partnership with that of our closest allies in the European Union. Today we said loud and clear: we stand with Ukraine, we need sanctions on Russia, and we will always stand by our allies. I urge the Senate to take up this legislation with haste and help us reassure our allies around the world of American’s unwavering commitment to Liberty loving people everywhere. If we do not, the next strategic reality we will face is defending our interests against an emboldened armed, expansionist Russia at a much, much higher cost.”

“The importance of Ukraine’s success against Russia’s war of aggression cannot be overstated. We should be assisting them because it is the right thing to do, but at the very least, we are obligated to do it in accordance with the Budapest Memorandum. Passage of the Ukraine Support Act would demonstrate the House’s continued support for Ukraine and condemnation of Russia. Critically, this bill includes billions in additional military assistance and comprehensive Russia sanctions,” said Ranking Member Keating. “I am proud to have co-led the introduction of this legislation and greatly appreciate the strong bipartisan support this bill received from Democratic and Republican members of the House. I urge the Senate to take it up so the United States can continue to support our ally Ukraine in their defense against Russian aggression.”

“Tonight, the House faced a Churchill vs. Chamberlain moment. Stand on the side of freedom and democracy, or show weakness to an invading thug who wants to restore Russian domination over a free people. Tonight, we chose Churchill,” said Bacon. “In 2024, I visited Ukraine and witnessed firsthand the devastation and cruelty that Russia has inflicted on the Ukrainian people. That trip and the courage of the Ukrainians have bolstered my belief that America must continue to support Ukraine’s fight against Russia’s brutal invasion, and the bipartisan vote this evening proves that support still exists here in Congress. I strongly urge the Senate to take up and pass this legislation without delay to provide Ukraine the military aid it needs to win and impose tough sanctions that further isolate and punish Putin.”

“I provided the decisive signature to force a vote on the Ukraine Support Act because the time for Congress to act is now. Today, in a bipartisan way, we made it clear that the United States will continue to stand with the Ukrainian people and provide the material support necessary for their self-defense. We made it equally clear that Russia will pay a severe price for its unprovoked aggression and ongoing violence. This is the leverage needed for constructive negations to end this conflict. This is what is required for peace,” said Kiley.

Background:

Today’s vote builds on Fitzpatrick’s broader work to advance a Ukraine policy rooted in peace through strength: sustaining critical security assistance, increasing pressure on Putin’s war machine, and ensuring any path to peace protects Ukraine’s sovereignty and is accepted by the free and independent Government of Ukraine.

As Co-Chair of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus, Fitzpatrick has helped lead bipartisan efforts to hold Russia accountable and confront the full scope of Putin’s aggression, from battlefield brutality to attacks on civilians, religious communities, and abducted Ukrainian children. He has seen the stakes firsthand on the front lines of Ukraine, meeting directly with Ukrainian leaders, servicemembers, and civilians defending their country and their freedom.

His leadership on the Peace Through Strength Against Russia Act, the Countering Russia’s War on Faith Act, and the bipartisan discharge petition reflects a clear and consistent principle: America must equip Ukraine to win, impose consequences on Russia, and never allow authoritarian aggression to be rewarded.

Fitzpatrick Statement on Iran War Powers Resolution

Wed, 154 Jun 2026 12:00:00 EST

When it comes to the conflict in Iran, these two statements of fact remain: 1) The world is a safer place after Iran’s nuclear capabilities have been degraded, and; 2) We are a nation of the rule of law and three independent, co-equal branches of government.

We must keep the world safe, and we must also follow the law. The War Powers Act of 1973 states that any conflict exceeding 60 days must be brought to Congress. Today was the second War Powers Resolution that was brought to the House Floor following the expiration of this 60-day clock. The law, as it is currently written, requires that the matter now be brought to Congress. That is why I voted in favor of today’s resolution. We must follow the law.

I previously authored and introduced my own War Powers Resolution that would comply with the War Powers Act of 1973, and that would also encourage, not discourage, cease-fires by tolling the 60-day clock to allow for negotiations. Until my Resolution is passed by Congress, or until the United States Supreme Court rules on the constitutionality of the War Powers Act of 1973, we must abide by the law as it is currently written.

Fitzpatrick, Suozzi Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Stop Taxpayer Dollars from Funding DOJ’s “Anti-Weaponization Fund”

Thu, 141 May 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-1) and Congressman Tom Suozzi (NY-3) introduced the Bipartisan Transparency for American Taxpayers Act, legislation to prohibit federal funds from being used to pay any claims submitted to the Department of Justice’s newly announced Anti-Weaponization Fund.

The legislation comes one day after Fitzpatrick pressed Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche for answers on the fund’s legal authority, funding source, eligibility standards, and lack of congressional oversight.

The DOJ announced on May 18, 2026, that the U.S. Department of Treasury would direct $1.776 billion to an account for the sole use of the Anti-Weaponization Fund. In response, Fitzpatrick raised urgent concerns that nearly $2 billion in taxpayer dollars could be diverted into a discretionary compensation fund without clear congressional authorization, court approval, or transparent guardrails.

The Bipartisan Transparency for American Taxpayers Act makes clear that no federal funds, including funds appropriated under Section 1304 of Title 31 of the U.S. Code, may be used for the payment of any claim submitted to the Anti-Weaponization Fund established by the Department of Justice on May 18, 2026.

“Congress has a constitutional responsibility to protect taxpayer dollars and oversee federal spending. Yesterday, I called on the DOJ to explain where this money is coming from, who may receive it, and under what authority this fund was created. Today, we are acting," said Fitzpatrick. “The Bipartisan Transparency for American Taxpayers Act ensures federal funds cannot be used for this fund without the transparency, oversight, and legal safeguards the American people deserve. Taxpayer dollars will not become a discretionary payout fund. Transparency is not optional. Accountability is not negotiable.”

"This is a bipartisan bill to block the President’s $1.7 billion slush fund to pay off January 6th criminals and other maladjusted minions! To allow it to continue would set a dangerous precedent,” said Suozzi. “Costs are skyrocketing. Gas, groceries, utilities, healthcare—everything costs more! Instead of fixing those problems, the President seems fixated going around the Congress to settle personal scores and making Americans pay for it. I join Congressman Fitzpatrick in saying ‘this is unacceptable!’”

The full text of the legislation can be found here.

Fitzpatrick’s May 20 letter to Acting Attorney General Blanche can be found here.

Fitzpatrick-Golden Bill to Restore Retirement Benefits for CBP Officers Advances to House Floor

Thu, 141 May 2026 12:00:00 EST

Bipartisan legislation passed Oversight Committee 40-0, corrects CBP error, and adds accountability safeguards

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-1) announced that his bipartisan U.S. Customs and Border Protection Officer Retirement Technical Corrections Act, introduced with Congressman Jared Golden (ME-02), passed the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform unanimously by a vote of 40-0.

The legislation corrects a CBP error that caused certain officers to lose enhanced retirement benefits they were promised and planned around. The bill restores those benefits, adds accountability safeguards, and is supported by the National Treasury Employees Union (NTEU).

“Our CBP officers stand on the front lines of America’s security every day—protecting our ports of entry, stopping illicit activity, facilitating lawful trade and travel, and helping keep our communities safe,” said Fitzpatrick. “When these officers relied on guidance from their own agency, they made career and retirement decisions in good faith. This is not special treatment. It is basic fairness, government accountability, and keeping faith with those who serve our country. A bureaucratic error should never erase benefits these officers were promised, planned around, and earned. This bill corrects the record, restores fairness, and honors their service to our nation. I will always stand with the men and women who protect America, and look forward to bringing this bipartisan fix to the House floor. I am grateful to Congressman Golden, Chairman Comer, NTEU, and my colleagues on both sides of the aisle for their unanimous support.”

“What’s fair is fair, and clerical screw-ups shouldn’t be allowed to stand between federal law enforcement officers and the benefits they were promised,” Golden said. “This bill is a simple solution to ensure the federal government lives up to its word. I urge my colleagues in the House to support this bill to restore fairness for these essential federal workers.”

"NTEU is proud to support the US Customs and Border Protection Officer Retirement Technical Corrections Act. This bipartisan, common-sense legislation will fix a longstanding error affecting approximately 1,500 CBPOs who have planned their retirements around guidance they were given when they were hired. H.R 8844 fixes this error and makes sure the government keeps its promise to these workers. We appreciate Reps. Fitzpatrick, Golden, and the entire House Oversight and Government Reform Committee for standing up for our CBP workforce,” said NTEU National President Doreen Greenwald.

“Since this small group of officers have planned their retirements and their lives and careers around incorrect guidance given to them by CBP, this bill corrects the misunderstanding by providing the enhanced benefits to this small group in the same way as existing officers. This bill also requires a Government Accountability Office report to ensure proper management of this benefit at CBP to prevent any similar mistakes from occurring. I am pleased this bill provides an opportunity to right a wrong for Customs and Border Protection officers while providing accountability measures to protect against similar mistakes from happening again,” said Chairman Comer.

Specifically, the bill would:

Ensure eligible officers receive the enhanced retirement and annuity treatment they were promised;
Require the Department of Homeland Security to identify and notify eligible officers;
Direct the Office of Personnel Management to make the necessary annuity corrections, including retroactive adjustments for eligible officers who have already retired;
Allow necessary waivers to ensure eligible officers can receive the corrected retirement treatment; and
Require the Government Accountability Office to review CBP hiring practices, internal controls, personnel-file policies, and training related to enhanced retirement benefits to help prevent similar errors in the future.

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection Officer Retirement Technical Corrections Act now heads to the House floor for consideration.

Read the full bill text here.

Background:

In 2008, CBP officers became eligible for enhanced law enforcement retirement coverage. During that transition, a limited group of officers received tentative job offers before the effective date but entered duty afterward, and were told they would remain eligible for proportional annuity treatment. Based on that guidance, they planned their careers and retirements around benefits they were later told they could not receive. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection Officer Retirement Technical Corrections Act corrects that error, restores the retirement treatment these officers were promised, and requires a GAO review to strengthen oversight and prevent similar failures in the future.

Fitzpatrick Helps Secure Major Bipartisan Victory to Expand Housing Supply and Lower Costs for PA-1 Families

Wed, 140 May 2026 12:00:00 EST

Washington, DC— Today, Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) helped lead passage of the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act, a sweeping bipartisan housing reform package to expand housing supply, modernize federal housing policy, strengthen community-based development, and restore affordability for working families in Pennsylvania’s First District and across the nation.

The legislation passed the House by an overwhelming bipartisan vote of 396 to 13 and now returns to the Senate for further consideration.

The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act represents one of the most comprehensive federal housing reform efforts in decades. It directly addresses the structural drivers of America’s housing shortage—outdated regulations, duplicative inspections, financing bottlenecks, underused properties, and barriers that slow local development.

Earlier this year, Fitzpatrick helped advance the original House housing package, which included three of Fitzpatrick's housing priorities. The updated package passed today now includes a fourth Fitzpatrick measure, further strengthening the bill’s focus on expanding supply, lowering costs, and helping communities turn vacant and blighted properties into affordable homes.

The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act includes the following Fitzpatrick-supported provisions that will deliver for PA-1, including:

Accelerating Home Building Act (H.R. 5907): Authorizes HUD to award competitive grants to local governments and tribal entities to adopt pre-reviewed, ready-to-use housing designs for mixed-income developments of up to 25 units. By shortening permitting timelines and reducing costly delays, this reform accelerates responsible homebuilding with 10% of funding reserved for rural communities.
Choice in Affordable Housing Act (H.R. 1981): Modernizes the Housing Choice Voucher program by eliminating duplicative inspections and allowing remote reviews in rural and small jurisdictions. By reducing red tape and encouraging landlord participation, this reform expands housing access for working families.
VA Home Loan Awareness Act (H.R. 2362): Requires mortgage applications to clearly notify eligible applicants that they may qualify for a VA Home Loan, ensuring veterans and service members are fully informed of benefits they have earned.
RESIDE Act (H.R. 5591): Creates a new pilot program providing local communities with grants to rehabilitate vacant, abandoned, and underutilized buildings into affordable homes. This provision helps communities transform blight into housing supply, revitalize neighborhoods, and bring more homes within reach for working families.

“Housing affordability is one of the defining economic challenges of our time because it shapes something deeply American: whether families who work hard, save responsibly, and play by the rules can still build a stable life in the communities they call home,” said Fitzpatrick. “Across Bucks and Montgomery Counties, I have sat down with realtors, home builders, lenders, local officials, and families who are living this challenge firsthand. Those conversations became the foundation of this work. We listened to the people closest to the problem, identified the barriers driving costs and limiting supply, and worked together to develop practical solutions that can actually move the needle.”

“Today’s overwhelming House passage is a major step forward in that effort,” Fitzpatrick continued. “The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act reflects the kind of two-party, common-sense leadership this moment demands: expanding supply, modernizing outdated federal barriers, restoring balance to the housing market, and giving communities the tools to turn vacant buildings into affordable homes. These reforms were shaped by real-world experience, built through bipartisan cooperation, and aimed at a clear purpose—lowering costs, strengthening neighborhoods, and keeping the promise of home within reach for working families. The House has acted with clear bipartisan resolve. Now the Senate must do the same.”

Background

Congressman Fitzpatrick has consistently led the charge on affordability—and it remains his top priority for Pennsylvania’s First District. Earlier this year, along with his Co-Chair of the Problem Solvers Caucus, Representative Tom Suozzi, he introduced a comprehensive bipartisan Affordability Agenda that outlines more than 40 commonsense bills capable of delivering immediate relief across five critical areas of household budgets: health care, housing, energy, child care, and food.

Each proposal in the framework has broad bipartisan support and is designed to pass both chambers of Congress — reflecting Fitzpatrick’s belief that lowering costs for working families must rise above partisanship.

In addition to the Housing for the 21st Century Act, his recent bipartisan efforts include:

HELP Copays Act – Legislation to lower the cost of life-saving prescription medications for patients with rare, serious, and chronic conditions.
Accelerating Home Building Act – Bipartisan, bicameral legislation aimed at increasing housing supply and improving affordability nationwide.
Caring for Our Seniors Act – Addresses the rising cost of senior care while strengthening the long-term care workforce.
Affordable Child Care Act – Doubles key tax credits to help working families access quality, affordable child care and put money directly back into parents’ pockets.

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Fitzpatrick Calls on DOJ to Provide Answers on Newly Announced $1.8 Billion “Anti-Weaponization Fund”

Wed, 140 May 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-1) called on Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche to provide immediate transparency regarding the Department of Justice’s newly announced “Anti-Weaponization Fund,” a nearly $1.8 billion discretionary account intended to compensate victims of alleged lawfare.

In a letter to the Department, Fitzpatrick raised serious concerns that the fund appears to have been created without congressional authorization or clear oversight mechanisms. He warned that directing nearly $2 billion in taxpayer funds into a discretionary account without answers about its legal basis, funding source, eligibility standards, or accountability structure represents a dangerous step backward for transparency, institutional integrity, and responsible stewardship of public dollars.

“A massive discretionary fund, with no oversight or approval from Congress, represents a dangerous backsliding in the transparency of our institutions and our commitment to the American taxpayer,” Fitzpatrick wrote.

Fitzpatrick requested answers by June 1, 2026, including where the funds are being diverted from, the exact legal purpose of the fund, whether individuals convicted of federal crimes or associated with acts of violence may be eligible for payouts, and whether any prior administration has established a comparable compensation program without congressional approval or court oversight.

Read the full letter here and below:

May 20, 2026

Todd Blanche
Acting Attorney General
U.S. Department of Justice
950 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20530-0001

Dear Attorney General Blanche:

I am writing to you to express my urgent concern surrounding the announcement of a newly formed “Anti-Weaponization Fund,” a plan to set up nearly $1.8 billion in funds to compensate victims of alleged lawfare. A massive discretionary fund, with no oversight or approval from Congress, represents a dangerous backsliding in the transparency of our institutions and our commitment to the American taxpayer.

The announcement from the Department of Justice on May 18, 2026, stated that the U.S. Department of Treasury will direct a payment of $1,776,000,000 to an account for the sole use by the Anti-Weaponization Fund.1 I am requesting more information on where these funds are being diverted from and how they will be used by this Designated Account.

I am requesting answers to the following questions by June 1, 2026:

Where are the nearly $2 billion in funds being diverted from to be used for this fund?
What is the exact legal purpose of the Anti-Weaponization Fund and will individuals convicted of federal crimes or associated with acts of violence be eligible to receive monetary payouts from the Fund?
Are there examples of previous administrations establishing discretionary compensation programs that are not authorized by Congress and do not have court approval or judicial oversight?

Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter. I look forward to your prompt response.

Sincerely,
Brian Fitzpatrick
Member of Congress

Fitzpatrick, Dingell Push Back on Proposed Rollback of PFAS Drinking Water Protections

Mon, 138 May 2026 12:00:00 EST

Washington, DC--Today, Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01) and Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06), Co-Chairs of the Congressional PFAS Task Force, raised concerns following the Adminstration's proposal to roll back federal drinking water protections for toxic “forever chemicals” known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS.

The proposal would rescind limits on four PFAS chemicals under the nation’s first-ever PFAS drinking water standard and give water systems two additional years to comply with limits for two others—potentially leaving communities exposed to contaminated drinking water for longer.

“Safe drinking water should never be a luxury, a legal debate, or a question at the kitchen sink. For families facing PFAS contamination, this is about the water they pour into a glass, cook with, and give to their children. These forever chemicals are found in the blood of nearly 98% of Americans, and communities that did not create this pollution should not be forced to live with the risk or pay the cost of cleaning it up. America should be moving faster to get PFAS out of our drinking water—not giving families more years of uncertainty and harm. We will not stand by while protections are weakened and working families are left waiting. We will continue fighting to protect clean water, hold polluters accountable, and put public health ahead of the interests that created this crisis,” said Fitzpatrick and Dingell.

Today's letter marks the latest step in Fitzpatrick and Dingell’s bipartisan effort to secure strong, enforceable protections for communities facing PFAS contamination. In June 2025, the lawmakers introduced legislation to put these safe drinking water regulations into law. The following month, they led 69 of their colleagues in urging the EPA to uphold the first-ever national primary drinking water regulation for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).

A copy of the letter can be found HERE and text is below:

Dear Administrator Zeldin:

We write to express concerns surrounding the Agency’s decision related to the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) rule. While we applaud efforts by the Administration to invest nearly $1 billion dollars in new funding to states to address PFAS in drinking water, potential for erosion of the SDWA must be taken seriously.

PFAS contamination is a real and urgent public health crisis across our country, and this rollback only serves to undermine the core purpose of SDWA to ensure communities have access to safe drinking water. Nearly 98% of Americans have PFAS detectable in their blood, and as of March 2026, about 176 million Americans drink water contaminated with PFAS. Rolling back drinking water standards for PFAS will further the existing public health crisis our communities are already facing due to these forever chemicals.

The finalized 2024 rule established an enforceable maximum contaminant level (MCL) standard of four parts per trillion for two of the most dangerous PFAS variants, PFOS and PFOA. It also regulated other times of PFAS, PFNA, PFHxS, PFBS, and GenX with an enforceable MCL standard of ten parts per trillion. It required that public water systems monitor for PFAS, notify the public of PFAS, and reduce PFAS in drinking water through phased-in approaches.

EPA finalized its 2024 rulemaking in response to its own extensive scientific research that reflected the correlation of PFAS to high cholesterol, kidney cancer, decreases in birth weight, and other serious health risks. When issued, the EPA estimated that this rule would prevent PFAS exposure in drinking water for as many as 100 million Americans, prevent thousands of deaths, and reduce tens of thousands of serious PFAS-attributable illnesses. The finalization of the 2024 rule was an important step in the fight to keep forever chemicals out of our homes and communities and rescinding this standard means harmful PFAS contamination will continue to spread through drinking water.

Safe drinking water should never be a luxury or a legal debate. For families facing PFAS contamination, this is about the water they pour into a glass, cook with, and give to their children. America should be moving faster to get PFAS out of our drinking water—not giving families more years of uncertainty and harm. We will not stand by while protections are weakened and working families are left waiting. We will continue fighting to protect clean water, hold polluters accountable, and put public health ahead of the interests that created this crisis.

We encourage EPA to reconsider the dangerous rollback of its 2024 PFAS National Drinking Water Standard.

Thank you for your attention to this matter and we look forward to your response

Fitzpatrick Drives La Salle-Bucks Partnership to Lower College Costs and Expand Career Pathways

Thu, 134 May 2026 12:00:00 EST

New agreement follows Fitzpatrick-convened discussions to help combat rising tuition costs at Bucks County Community College, saves students nearly $114,000, and builds more pathways to high-demand careers

Bucks County, PA—Today, Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick announced a major new partnership between La Salle University and Bucks County Community College that will dramatically reduce the cost of earning a four-year degree, create a seamless transfer pathway for Bucks students, and expand access to the credentials needed for good-paying careers in high-demand fields.

The agreement follows a November meeting convened by Fitzpatrick with La Salle University President Dan Allen and Bucks County Community College President Patrick Jones, where the three leaders focused on a shared challenge facing families across the region: making college more affordable, more attainable, and more directly connected to the workforce needs of tomorrow. The result is a lower-cost pathway from Bucks to La Salle that helps students save money, continue their education with confidence, and prepare for careers in high-demand fields.

“Rising tuition costs in our community are putting too much pressure on too many families, and that is not acceptable,” said Fitzpatrick. “Higher education should be a ladder up, not a wall that keeps students from reaching their potential. Local families brought this concern to me, and I took it directly to President Allen and President Jones with a clear goal: lower costs, strengthen transfer pathways, and connect more Bucks students to the careers our region needs. This partnership delivers — helping students save money, reduce debt, and continue their education with confidence. It is a major win for our students, our families, our workforce, and the future of PA-1. I am grateful to Dan and Patrick for their outstanding leadership and continued partnership, and I look forward to building on this work together to expand affordable opportunity for even more students and families.”

“La Salle University is proud to strengthen our partnership with Bucks County Community College and create new pathways of opportunity for students. President Jones and the entire BCCC community share a clear commitment to transforming lives through education, and that mission strongly aligns with who we are at La Salle. We are energized by what this partnership will make possible for our students, our institutions, and the communities we proudly serve,” said La Salle University President Dan Allen. “I am grateful for the support of Congressman and proud Explorer alum Brian Fitzpatrick, for his support of an initiative that will expand higher education for generations of students in the region.”

"We are honored to partner with La Salle University and are grateful for their effort to make quality education affordable and provide a pathway for Bucks’ honors students to join the La Salle honors community upon transfer," said Patrick M. Jones, President & CEO of Bucks County Community College. "This is what a true partnership looks like."

At its core, the La Salle–Bucks partnership is about affordable opportunity — making sure students are not priced out of their potential, families are not forced to choose between education and financial security, and local employers have access to the skilled workforce they need to grow.

By helping students start closer to home, save nearly $114,000, and move seamlessly into bachelor’s and graduate pathways tied to high-demand fields, this agreement reflects the kind of results-driven leadership Fitzpatrick has championed since entering Congress: lowering barriers, expanding opportunity, and ensuring PA-1 leads in preparing the next generation for the jobs and industries that will shape America’s future.

Background:

Through the new BCCC x La Salle partnership, students who graduate from BCCC’s Honors@Bucks program will be able to transfer seamlessly into La Salle University’s honors program. Bucks students who earn an associate degree with at least a 3.0 GPA and sign a dual-admission agreement in advance will be eligible to enter select La Salle business or technology bachelor’s degree programs with a guaranteed minimum merit scholarship of $20,000 per year for their junior and senior years.

For students pursuing an eligible combined bachelor’s and master’s degree in business or technology, the savings go even further: they will receive a 20 percent tuition discount toward the master’s portion, and both degrees can be completed at La Salle within three years. Students who complete their associate degree at Bucks before transferring to La Salle under the dual-admission agreement can save nearly $114,000 compared to enrolling directly at a four-year institution.

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Fitzpatrick Statement on Iran War Powers Resolution

Thu, 134 May 2026 12:00:00 EST

We must keep the world safe, and we must also follow the law. The War Powers Act of 1973 states that any conflict exceeding 60 days must be brought to Congress. Today was the first War Powers Resolution that was brought to the House Floor following the expiration of this 60-day clock. The law, as it is currently written, requires that the matter now be brought to Congress. That is why I voted in favor of today’s resolution. We must follow the law.

Ukraine Caucus Supports Ukraine Ceasefire, Calls on Russia to Demonstrate Good Faith

Wed, 126 May 2026 12:00:00 EST

Washington, DC – Today, Co-Chairs of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus, Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), Congressman Mike Quigley (IL-05), and Congressman Joe Wilson (SC-02) issued the following statement in response to Ukraine’s ceasefire proposal and Russia’s continued strikes that undermine any credible path to peace:

“Ukraine has extended an olive branch: an immediate, temporary ceasefire grounded in the protection of human life and the pursuit of a just peace. In the face of Russia’s continued aggression, this proposal reflects the moral clarity of a free people: willing to seek peace, unwilling to surrender sovereignty, and determined to defend the dignity of their nation.

“For years, the world has watched Russia strike Ukrainian cities, energy infrastructure, and civilians while claiming to seek peace. Simultaneously, the Kremlin is only advancing a symbolic pause tied to its World War II Victory Day commemorations — an observance Dictator Vladimir Putin has increasingly weaponized as a tool of propaganda and imperial grievance. A ceasefire cannot be selective, conditional, or timed for political convenience. It must be real, verifiable, and honored in good faith.

“Putin should accept and fully respect Ukraine’s ceasefire beginning tonight. The choice before the Kremlin is clear: continue a war that has brought devastation to Ukraine and isolation to Russia, or take a meaningful step toward peace.

“The lesson is not distant history. It is the test before us now. Europe once again faces a war of conquest—an effort to erase Ukraine’s borders, extinguish its identity, and deny a free people the right to determine their own future.

“History has shown where wars of aggression lead when the world looks away. It has also shown how they end: aggression rejected, sovereignty defended, and peace secured through strength.

“We stand united— Democrats and Republicans — in support of Ukraine’s sovereignty, in defense of international law, and in recognition of the immense sacrifices already made by the Ukrainian people. We honor those who have fallen resisting tyranny and fighting for Liberty on the continent of Europe, just as we remember the lives of the 420,000 Americans and countless millions who gave their lives to defeat an ideology based on hatred and domination eight decades ago.

“The path to peace is open. The responsibility to take it rests with the Kremlin. And as one united front, we say clearly: America stands with the people of Ukraine.”

Fitzpatrick, Hoyer Lead Bipartisan Effort to Honor America’s Public Servants

Mon, 124 May 2026 12:00:00 EST

Washington, DC— Today, Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) and Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (D-MD) introduced a bipartisan resolution commemorating Public Service Recognition Week, observed from May 3 through May 9, 2026. The bipartisan measure honors the dedication, professionalism, and patriotism of America’s public servants, affirms the essential role they play in serving communities across the country, and calls on Americans to recognize the men and women who carry out this work on their behalf at every level of government.

“A nation is only as strong as the people entrusted to serve it,” said Fitzpatrick. “America’s public servants shoulder responsibilities that touch nearly every part of our national life — from public safety and veterans services to infrastructure, research, national security, and the protection of constitutional rights. Their work is demanding, often unseen, and essential to a government that is accountable, capable, and worthy of the people it serves. As a former federal law enforcement officer, I have seen the discipline, integrity, and sense of duty this work requires. I am grateful to join Congressman Hoyer in honoring the Americans who choose public service as their mission and carry it out every day with professionalism, purpose, and devotion to country.”

"During Public Service Recognition Week, we highlight the dedication and commitment of the public employees who make a difference in the lives of Americans every day and keep our country moving forward," said Hoyer. "They have continued to show up and use their voices despite the threats to their careers and livelihoods over this past year - and with little recognition or reward. It is critical that Congress continues to ensure that they receive the support and appreciation they deserve. That's why I'm proud to join Rep. Fitzpatrick in introducing a bipartisan resolution to honor Public Service Recognition Week. I hope that everyone will take this week to thank public employees for their contributions and their commitment, and those of us who appreciate all they do will continue our fight to protect them."

"IFPTE thanks Representatives Hoyer and Fitzpatrick for sponsoring this bipartisan resolution honoring Public Service Recognition Week. As a Union representing tens of thousands of government workers at all levels of government, it is critically important that lawmakers from across the political spectrum show their support and appreciation for the vital services that our government employees provide. This is as needed now more than ever as the careers and rights of federal workers, including collective bargaining rights, are under assault. We applaud our friends in Congress for supporting this resolution and continue to appreciate their support for government workers,” said President Matthew Biggs, International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE).

“Public Service Recognition Week is a time to celebrate and honor our nation's public servants who go to work each day on behalf of their communities and our country. I applaud Representatives Fitzpatrick and Hoyer for leading the House resolution honoring our nation's public servants, and I encourage every lawmaker to take a moment this week to recognize those workers at the federal, state, county, local and tribal government levels who keep our nation moving forward,” said Max Stier, President and CEO of the Partnership for Public Service.

“Federal employees work every day with dedication and skill, despite the blatant attacks on their jobs, pay, benefits, and workplace rights. I want to thank Representatives Hoyer and Fitzpatrick for leading the effort during Public Service Recognition Week to pay tribute to and thank federal workers for their service and commitment to improving the lives of all Americans,” said NTEU National President Doreen Greenwald.

"Public Service Recognition Week serves as an opportunity to give thanks to the front-line heroes who keep our communities strong, safe and healthy. Whether they're keeping our streets clean, taking kids to school, or caring for us when we're sick, public service workers show up every single day because they are committed to helping others. When they have a voice on the job, they use that voice to strengthen the public services our communities depend on, strengthening our economy and providing relief to working families. As we pause to honor them this week, let's recommit to supporting their service by investing in them and their life-saving work,” said AFSCME President Lee Saunders.

“Public service employees represent the best of this country. They are people who choose service over self-interest and put the public good ahead of profit. As we recognize them this week, we should be clear about the alternative: a system driven solely by private interests, where public assets are stripped for profit and accountability disappears. That’s not just unsustainable; it’s dangerous. Thank you to the members of Congress standing up for public service and supporting this resolution. This year, more than ever, that leadership is needed,” said Randy Erwin, National President, National Federation of Federal Employees (NFFE-IAM).

Read the full text of the resolution here.

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Fitzpatrick Leads Effort to Honor Jewish American Heritage and Confront Antisemitism

Thu, 120 Apr 2026 12:00:00 EST

Washington D.C. – Today, Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-1), alongside U.S. Reps. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01), Troy A. Carter, Sr. (LA-02), introduced a resolution to recognize Jewish American Heritage Month (JAHM) in the House of Representatives and condemn rising antisemitism.

Observed each May, Jewish American Heritage Month honors the generations of Jewish Americans whose faith, service, sacrifice, innovation, patriotism, and leadership have helped shape the American story. This year’s resolution recognizes the essential role Jewish Americans have played throughout the 250-year history of our nation, including the more than one million Jewish Americans who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces and the Jewish servicemembers whose courage earned the Medal of Honor.

“Few stories speak more clearly to the promise of America than the story of Jewish Americans — a story of faith, resilience, service, sacrifice, and an enduring devotion to freedom. Their contributions are not a footnote to American history; they are among its essential chapters,” said Fitzpatrick. “This bipartisan resolution honors that legacy and, amid the continued and alarming rise in antisemitism, reaffirms a solemn responsibility: to stand with Jewish Americans, confront hatred with moral clarity, and ensure that antisemitism finds no refuge in the United States of America. As Co-Chair of the Bipartisan Task Force for Combatting Antisemitism, I will continue working across the aisle and within our PA-1 community to lead that effort.”

“As we celebrate the 21st year of Jewish American Heritage Month, I’m proud to lead this effort to detail all the remarkable contributions that generations of Jewish Americans made to shape our nation’s history, culture and society,” said Wasserman Schultz. “This celebration is also one of the most effective ways to combat rising antisemitism, as Jews and non-Jews alike come to learn about all the amazing Jewish men and women who played critical roles to advance the American experiment over the past 250 years, including those who defended our nation in the military. I’m so grateful to have strong, bipartisan support in this effort.”

“During Jewish American Heritage Month, we come together to recognize our Jewish neighbors' rich legacy of history and culture. This month, and every month, we celebrate the incredible vibrancy and diversity of Jewish life and the critical contributions Jewish Americans have made to our nation,” said Carter. “At the same time, we must stand against the rising tide of antisemitism and all forms of hatred and discrimination. This Jewish American Heritage Month, I will keep fighting to ensure everyone can live without fear.”

“I am proud to join Reps. Wasserman Schultz, Carter, and Fitzpatrick in leading this bipartisan effort to recognize May as Jewish American Heritage Month,” said Miller-Meeks. “As antisemitism continues to rise across our country, it is more important than ever that we stand united in confronting hatred and honoring the contributions of Jewish Americans. I will continue working to combat antisemitism and stand firmly with our Jewish friends and neighbors.”

This year’s JAHM resolution commemorates the contributions of more than one million Jewish Americans who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces and highlights the valiance of several Jewish servicemembers who earned the Medal of Honor. The resolution is endorsed by the ADL; American Jewish Committee (AJC); Combat Antisemitism Movement(CAM); Hadassah, the Women’s Zionist Organization of America; the Jewish Council for Public Affairs (JCPA); the Jewish Federations of North America; Jewish War Veterans of the USA; National Council of Jewish Women; Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America (Orthodox Union); Rabbinical Assembly; Sephardic Heritage International DC (SHIN-DC); and the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism (USCJ).

“Jewish American Heritage Month is an opportunity to celebrate the rich history, culture, and contributions of Jewish Americans who have helped shape our nation,” said Jonathan Greenblatt, CEO and National Director of the ADL. “This recognition is especially important as antisemitism continues to rise. We are grateful to Reps. Wasserman Schultz, Fitzpatrick, Carter, and Miller-Meeks for their leadership on the JAHM resolution, and we look forward to working alongside leaders in Congress to help protect Jewish communities.”

“According to American Jewish Committee’s State of Antisemitism in America 2025 Report, 91% of American Jews say they feel less safe as a Jewish person in the United States due to violent attacks on American Jews in the past year,” said Ted Deutch, CEO of American Jewish Committee (AJC). “When so many American Jews report feeling less safe in their daily lives, this resolution importantly affirms both the celebration of Jewish life in the United States and the shared responsibility to confront anti-Jewish hate in all its forms. We are grateful to Representatives Debbie Wasserman Schultz, Brian Fitzpatrick, Troy Carter, and Mariannette Miller-Meeks for their leadership in advancing this important measure and reaffirming that America’s strength lies in the celebration of both our shared values and our distinct identities.”

“For 250 years, Jewish Americans have had an indelible impact on society, helping shape national identity through contributions in science, medicine, business, law, public service, media, sports, and entertainment,” said Alyza Lewin, President of U.S. Affairs for the Combat Antisemitism Movement (CAM). “We commend this bipartisan resolution as a powerful affirmation of the integral role Jews have played in the great American story, and we thank Congress for honoring the richness of Jewish American life and sending a clear message that antisemitism has no place in the United States.”

“One of the most important ways to counter rising antisemitism in the United States is to increase public awareness of the American Jewish community’s significant contributions to the country’s civic, cultural and scientific life,” said Carol Ann Schwartz, National President of Hadassah, The Women’s Zionist Organization of America. “Hadassah is grateful to Representatives Wasserman Schultz, Miller-Meeks, Carter and Fitzpatrick for their leadership in introducing this bipartisan resolution recognizing Jewish American Heritage Month. We urge Congress to support this critical resolution and continue speaking out against the rise in antisemitic hatred.”

“Jewish history is American history, and Jewish American Heritage Month offers us an opportunity to honor and celebrate the contributions that Jewish Americans have had in making this country what it is — and to recommit ourselves to the critical work of building a better America,” said Amy Spitalnick, CEO of the Jewish Council for Public Affairs (JCPA). “Since this country’s founding, Jewish Americans have helped lead movements to strengthen our democracy and expand civil rights — advocating for religious freedom, immigrant justice, workers’ rights, and equal protection under the law. We are grateful for this bipartisan effort to honor Jewish Americans’ critical contributions to our nation, to fight antisemitism wherever it is, and to reaffirm our clear understanding that Jewish safety and American democracy are inseparable.”

“Jewish American Heritage Month is a powerful celebration of the vibrancy, resilience, and enduring contributions of Jewish Americans to every chapter of our nation’s story,” said Gary Torgow, Chair of the Jewish Federations of North America (JFNA). “At a time of rising antisemitism and real security concerns for our communities, this recognition affirms our deep American roots, the contributions we have made to the great American experiment, and our right to live our communal lives safely as full members of American society. We are proud to support this bipartisan effort to honor Jewish life while standing united against hate in all its forms.”

“American Jews are living through an unprecedented time of challenge in the United States, as antisemitism has reached unprecedented rates,” said Nathan Diament, Executive Director of the Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America (Orthodox Union). “But we remain hopeful that Congress and other leaders of our society will remain true to the founding principles that gave Jews — and Americans of all faiths — unprecedented religious liberty in this great nation. We pray that in the upcoming month, JAHM events will enable us to celebrate American Jewish history and the greatness of the United States of America.”

“Sephardic Heritage International (SHIN-DC) proudly supports the 2026 resolution honoring Jewish American Heritage Month,” said Afraim Katzir, Director of Sephardic Heritage International (SHIN-DC). “Over the past 250 years, and as reflected by the resolution's narrative, the Sephardic community has made vital contributions to this great country, reminding us that Jewish American heritage is a rich, multicultural story spanning Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Americas—and thereby fostering understanding across diverse communities while countering prejudice and antisemitism by challenging simplistic narratives and harmful stereotypes about Jews.”

The United States observes JAHM annually to encourage all Americans to learn more about Jewish culture and pay tribute to the generations of Jewish Americans who have helped shape American history. With the continued rise of antisemitism. fueled by the spread of hatred, disinformation, and Holocaust distortion online, JAHM provides an opportunity to celebrate Jewish voices and bring together all our communities in the fight against antisemitism and hate.

Read the full resolution here.

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