Bird flu detected in cattle in eight states; Arkansas Ag Department restricts transport into state

By Ryan McGeeney
U of A System Division of Agriculture 

LITTLE ROCK — As highly pathogenic avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, is detected in cattle in a growing number of states, the Arkansas Department of Agriculture has issued an order restricting livestock exhibiting symptoms or testing positive for the virus from entering the state.

CURRENT SITUATION — As of April 15, USDA’s Animal and Plant Inspection Service reported confirmed cases of HPAI in cattle in eight states, including Idaho, New Mexico, Texas, South Dakota, Kansas, Michigan, Ohio and North Carolina. All of the reported cases have been in dairy milking cattle. (Image courtesy USDA.)

Dustan Clark, extension poultry health veterinarian for the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture, said Arkansas has seen no reports of cattle infected with the virus within its borders. Additionally, there have been no reports of bird flu in Arkansas commercial poultry production facilities or backyard “hobby flocks” since December 2023.

“So far, we’re doing quite well,” Clark said. “I won’t say we’re safe. We need everyone to maintain good biosecurity practices.”

Clark is also the associate director of the Division of Agriculture’s Poultry Center.

Per an April 5 letter from Arkansas State Veterinarian John Nilz:

• No dairy cattle exhibiting symptoms of or testing positive for HPAI shall be allowed to move into Arkansas.

• No dairy cattle from states with impacted herds shall be allowed to move into Arkansas.

• Livestock moving into Arkansas found to be in non-compliance with this order shall be quarantined to the nearest facility until all requirements are met on said animals to meet specifications.

“This is still an unfolding issue,” Clark said. As of April 15, USDA’s Animal and Plant Inspection Service reported confirmed cases of HPAI in cattle in eight states, including Idaho, New Mexico, Texas, South Dakota, Kansas, Michigan, Ohio and North Carolina. All of the reported cases have been in dairy milking cattle.

Clark said that since February 2022, more than 90 million birds in the United States have been affected by the H5N1 strain of bird flu.

“It’s been detected in about 480 commercial flocks and 645 hobby flocks,” Clark said.

According to an April 16 U.S. Department of Agriculture report, more than 8.5 million birds had been affected within the previous 30 days. While HPAI has been detected in 48 states over the last two years, it has only been reported in eight states — Michigan, Florida, New Mexico, Minnesota, Kansas, Texas, North Carolina and Maine — during that 30-day period.

“Two of the largest of those were table egg flocks in Michigan,” Clark said. “One with more than 2 million birds, the other slightly less than 2 million birds. Then there was a commercial table egg flock in Texas that was more than 1.8 million birds. Those were the biggest in the last 30 days.”

Clark said that while USDA and the state veterinarian outlined clear biosecurity guidelines for the transportation of poultry for both commercial producers and backyard hobbyists, one factor that can’t be controlled is the presence of wild birds.

“Don’t expose your hobby flock birds to wild waterfowl,” Clark said. “Keep them penned up at this point in time, while the migration is still going on. Don’t let them range and keep them away from water sources that may have had wild waterfowl on them, such as a pond.

“If you go somewhere such as a park and there’s a pond there, stay away from it,” he said. “When you go home, clean and disinfect your shoes and change clothes before you visit your own poultry.”

Many public resources are available to help individuals establish good biosecurity measures and assess the possibility of an infected herd or flock, including the USDA’s HPAI biosecurity factsheet, the Division of Agriculture’s biosecurity resources page and the Arkansas Department of Health’s HPAI page. Individuals who think they may have an infected bird should consult their veterinarian or call the Arkansas Department of Agriculture at  501-823-1746.

To learn about extension programs in Arkansas, contact your local Cooperative Extension Service agent or visit www.uaex.uada.edu. Follow us on X and Instagram at @AR_Extension. To learn more about Division of Agriculture research, visit the Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station website: https://aaes.uada.edu/. Follow on X at @ArkAgResearch. To learn more about the Division of Agriculture, visit https://uada.edu/. Follow us on X at @AgInArk.

Representative Hill's legislation to provide transparency into financial corruption of Iranian leaders passes House

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, Rep. French Hill’s (R-AR) bill with Rep. Juan Vargas (D-CA), H.R. 6245, the Holding Iranian Leaders Accountable Act, passed the House Floor with a bipartisan vote of 419-4. 

Rep. Hill said, “Iran’s attacks on Israel are the latest example of their terror that continues to plague the world. The Iranian regime is the top sponsor of terrorism who enables terrorist groups like Hamas and Hezbollah to carry out their brutal attacks against innocent civilians in the Middle East and beyond. The United States must take action to assess the finances of Iran’s authoritarian leaders and crack down on financial institutions that are connected to their funds to hinder their terror financing abilities – my bill that passed the House Floor today does just that. 

“Ayatollah Khamenei and his theocratic leaders have been in power for 30 years. His family wealth is estimated to be in the billions while roughly 60% of Iranians live in poverty. Publishing the level of corruption and theft by Iranian leaders and offering it in English, Farsi, Arabic and Azeri will demonstrate to the citizens of Iran how they have been misled.” 

Rep. Vargas said, "After decades of funding terrorism against the United States and our allies and using its proxies to sow chaos, Iran has now launched a direct and reckless attack on Israel. We must take a bipartisan approach to addressing this unprecedented threat. This legislation, which was introduced with my friend and colleague, French Hill, will help provide transparency into the financial corruption of the Iranian regime and hold them accountable." 

Further Background: 

Holding Iranian Leaders Accountable Act: This bill would require the Department of the Treasury to brief Congress on the finances of Iranian leadership and require financial institutions to close accounts connected to these individuals. This legislation will provide a valuable window into the corrupt business practices of Iran’s top kleptocrats and limit their financial holdings which are used to support and sponsor terrorism.

Westerman, colleagues introduce Second Chance Reauthorization Act

WASHINGTON - Today, U.S. Representatives Bruce Westerman (AR-04), Carol Miller (WV-01), Danny Davis (IL-07), Bobby Scott (VA-03), Barry Moore (AL-02), Sheila Jackson Lee (TX-18), and Jerry Nadler (NY-12) introduced the Second Chance Reauthorization Act of 2024, bipartisan legislation to reauthorize Second Chance Act programs for an additional five years and reduce recidivism rates nationwide.

“Promoting second chances is essential to breaking the cycle of crime. When we meet individuals who have paid their debts to society with the support and tools they need to succeed, rather than with burdensome legal and social barriers, they are less likely to re-offend and more likely to be positive members of our communities," said Congressman Bruce Westerman (AR-04). "I'm proud to support the Second Chance Reauthorization Act to promote second chances and foster safer communities. The opportunities and resources provided by this legislation are paramount in breaking the cycle of crime and reducing recidivism rates in Arkansas and nationwide.”

“In West Virginia, we know how important it is to provide everyone with opportunities to succeed. The Second Chance Reauthorization Act is an important component of my efforts to reduce recidivism rates and increase public safety. When we invest in our communities and put in place strong reentry services and supports for people released from prisons and jails, we build stronger and safer communities,” said Congresswoman Miller. “The bill’s strengthened provisions around transitional housing services and substance abuse treatment will be instrumental in helping people in West Virginia and across the nation get back on the right path as they reenter their communities.”
 
“Second Chance reentry programs and services have reached hundreds of thousands of individuals and families across the country, creating healthier families and safer communities,” said Congressman Davis. “Continuing to invest in these evidenced-based interventions is a commonsense approach to strengthen individuals, re-build families, and grow our economy.”

“The Second Chance Act provides an invaluable safety net for those returning to society. Recently incarcerated individuals require a number of stabilizing services and opportunities to get their life back on the right track. We have the evidence and tools at our disposal to reduce recidivism and encourage successful reentry, and we know that the programs funded through the Second Chance Act work. I thank my colleagues for joining this bipartisan effort with me,” said Congressman Scott.

“For 15 years, the Second Chance Act has supported communities by improving the re-entry process from incarceration back into society,” said Rep. Armstrong. “As a former criminal defense attorney, I saw firsthand how the program reduced recidivism to make these communities safer and lowered costs to taxpayers. It requires constant communication between parole and law enforcement officers, family members, employers, and other entities. I am proud to join this crucial reauthorization so we can continue to build on the successes of the Second Chance Act and work to guarantee a safer system for all,” said Congressman Armstrong.

“The Second Chance Reauthorization Act bolsters support for people reentering society after incarceration, ensuring they have robust reentry services and a chance to lead honest, productive lives,” said Congressman Nadler. “I am honored to join my colleagues in affirming the transformative ability of second chances and empowering formerly incarcerated individuals who are striving to become valued contributors to our communities.”

“For far too long, the American criminal justice system has operated based on a misguided understanding of how to promote and achieve public safety.  As we continue to embrace and uplift the importance of providing critical reentry programming and services to help promote public safety and provide second chances to individuals returning to their homes and communities, I am pleased to join my colleagues in introducing The Second Chance Reauthorization Act of 2024. Research has long shown that punitive carceral environments which lack meaningful rehabilitative measures only further foster dangerous and unsafe outcomes for everyone within the walls of American jails and prisons including correctional staff.  Those conditions then contribute to increased rates of recidivism – putting communities outside prison walls at risk of harm.  Meaningful investment in rehabilitative re-entry services, the kinds of partnerships and opportunities made possible by the Second Chance Reauthorization Act, have been shown to reduce recidivism rates and make our communities safer.  Congress must continue expanding and shifting strategies - like the Second Chance Act - to advance public safety to ultimately reach our paramount goal of keeping our communities safe,” said Congresswoman Lee.

“Securing a steady job, housing, and reintegrating into a community after serving time is a challenge more than 70 million Americans face,” said Congressman Moore. “The Second Chance Act helps programs that assist these individuals with reentry and has been proven to reduce recidivism. I have seen the benefits of this legislation in my own district at J.F. Ingram State Technical College, where they offer 20 technical training programs for incarcerated adults including automotive repair, construction, cosmetics, and logistics.”

BACKGROUND:

• In 2008, the bipartisan Second Chance Act was signed into law. 

• Since its enactment, Second Chance Act programs have supported states, local governments, tribal governments, and nonprofit organizations in their efforts to reduce recidivism.

• To date, more than 442,000 justice-involved individuals have participated in reentry services through these programs.

• The Second Chance Reauthorization Act of 2024 will reauthorize programs from the Second Chance Act for an additional five years, allowing the government to continue making important investments across the U.S. to bolster reentry services and help individuals successfully reenter their communities after incarceration.

The Second Chance Reauthorization Act is supported by the American Jail Association, American Parole and Probation Association, Catholic Charities USA, Conservative Political Action Coalition, Correctional Leaders Association, Council of State Governments Justice Center, Major County Sheriffs of America, National Alliance on Mental Illness, National Association of Counties, National Association of State Alcohol and Drug Abuse Directors, National Association of State Mental Health Program Directors, National District Attorneys Association, National League of Cities, Prison Fellowship, Treatment Alternatives for Safe Communities, and U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

Womack joins bipartisan, bicameral letter to the USPS opposing consolidations, operational changes across the country

Washington, DC—April 17, 2024…Today, Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) joined a bipartisan, bicameral group of 22 Members of Congress in sending a letter to United States Postmaster General Louis DeJoy, decrying the United States Postal Service’s (USPS) recent nationwide consolidation and review announcements that could severely diminish mail service reliability for postal networks across the country, including in Arkansas. 

“A common theme of these announcements is the so-called ‘modernization’ of Processing and Distribution Centers (P&DCs) into Local Processing Centers (LPCs),” the Members wrote. “Taken together, these proposals dismantle parts of the Postal Service’s robust network that helps distribute mail across the country and places outgoing sorting into more distant facilities.  The result of this change is that mail will need to travel farther from its origin to its sorting, creating inefficiencies in the system, especially for local mail.” 

“These consolidation proposals never have had any discernible support from local communities.  On the contrary, we have heard strong opposition to these efforts from USPS customers, community leaders, local businesses, and postal employees,” the Members continued. “Rather than marching forward with these plans and offering short and vague statements dismissing concerns, the Postal Service should be communicating why the organization believes these changes are beneficial and what the specific impact of the changes will be to mail service.” 

“The Postal Service provides an essential service upon which our constituents rely.  The robust nature of the Postal Service’s current network is its strength, not its weakness.  To ensure that our constituents continue to receive reliable service, we urge you to reconsider these consolidation announcements,” the Members concluded. 

The announced network changes align with the Postal Service’s Delivering for America (DFA) plan. However, a recent review by the USPS Office of Inspector General for the implementation of the new Regional Processing and Distribution Center (RP&DC) in Richmond, Virginia, highlighted the problems with the USPS’s plan.  That facility was the first to be converted to an RP&DC as a result of the DFA plan.  The Inspector General’s review noted that challenges associated with changes to the facility “contributed to a decrease in service performance for the Richmond region that continued four months after launch.”   

The letter can be read in full here.

Congressman Womack initially expressed his concern for the consolidations and operational changes when USPS announced in November the Mail Processing Facility Review being conducted by USPS with respect to the NW Arkansas P&DC in Fayetteville, Arkansas. The letter can be read here.

Zekelman Industries to invest $120 million in its NEA Atlas Tube operations

by George Jared (gjared@talkbusiness.net)

Zekelman Industries will invest up to $120 million to expand the manufacturing capabilities and product offerings of its subsidiary, Atlas Tube, in Mississippi County. The project will bring Zekelman’s total number of employees in the area to more than 300. It will also partner with Arkansas Northeastern College on a new workforce training initiative.

“Education and skills training are crucial to developing the next generation of workers. Our goal at Zekelman is to prepare, nurture and inspire students entering the thriving and well-paying steel industry,” said Tom Muth, chief operating officer. “Our commitment is representative of our partnership with the Blytheville community and ongoing dedication to domestic-only manufacturing. We are particularly grateful to Mayor Logan and Mississippi County for their continued support.”

A manufacturer of hollow structural sections and steel pipe, Zekelman currently operates two Atlas Tube facilities in Blytheville. Its new project will allow it to manufacture inline steel tube galvanizing products in size ranges not currently available in North America.

Zekelman Industries to invest $120 million in its NEA Atlas Tube operations

USDA National Appeals Division on the agenda for NALC’s 11th Annual Mid-South Conference

By Tru Joi Curtis
National Agricultural Law Center
U of A System Division of Agriculture

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — What happens next when a farmer is denied enrollment or benefits in a U.S. Department of Agriculture program?

Danielle Lake, deputy regional director of the USDA National Appeals Division, will discuss the best way to approach a USDA appeal at the 11th Annual Mid-South Ag & Environmental Law Conference. (Image courtesy Danielle Lake)

USDA offers an appeal process to farmers who receive a denial, known as an “adverse program decision,” through its National Appeals Division, or NAD. These appeals can arise from a variety of programs including farm loans, farm program payments, conservation programs and more. This process comes with specific rules and procedures that producers and attorneys will need to know about.

Danielle Lake, deputy regional director of the USDA National Appeals Division, will discuss what lawyers and their clients need to know when filing a USDA appeal during the National Agricultural Law Center’s 11th Annual Mid-South Agricultural and Environmental Law Conference, which will be held June 6-7.

During her session, “USDA National Appeals Division 101: What You and Your Farm Client Need to Know,” Lake will share her inside knowledge of the best way to approach a USDA appeal and the process’ impacts.

“NAD is dedicated to conducting impartial appeal hearings of adverse decisions made by the USDA agencies under our jurisdiction,” Lake said. “This is a unique process with special rules, and I’ll address some recent changes and provide pointers that participants will want to know.”

The Mid-South Agricultural and Environmental Law Conference will be held in Memphis, Tennessee at the University of Memphis Cecil C. Humphrey School of Law. The conference will also be available via livestream for those unable to participate in person. Registration, agenda and more information is available online.

“This session will be informative to those new to NAD as well as those who have considerable experience with the process,” NALC Director Harrison Pittman said. “As a regional director for NAD, Danielle will provide very unique insight into this unique legal process. Danielle is a terrific presenter and we’re fortunate she’ll be joining us in Memphis this year.”

For information about the National Agricultural Law Center, visit nationalaglawcenter.org or follow @Nataglaw on X. The National Agricultural Law Center is also on Facebook and LinkedIn.

For updates on agricultural law and policy developments, subscribe free of charge to The Feed, the NALC’s twice-monthly newsletter highlighting recent legal developments facing agriculture.

About the National Agricultural Law Center

The National Agricultural Law Center serves as the nation’s leading source of agricultural and food law research and information. The NALC works with producers, state and federal policymakers, Congressional staffers, attorneys, land grant universities, and many others to provide objective, nonpartisan agricultural and food law research and information to the nation’s agricultural community.

The NALC is a unit of the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture and works in close partnership with the USDA Agricultural Research Service, National Agricultural Library.

Boozman, Casey, Scott Introduce Bill to Combat Antisemitism on College Campuses

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR), Bob Casey (D-PA) and Tim Scott (R-SC) introduced the Antisemitism Awareness Act. The bill will help address antisemitic sentiment and action on college campuses, which has been rising across the nation for years and spiked in the wake of Hamas’ terrorist attack on October 7, 2023, by requiring the U.S. Department of Education to consider the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) working definition of antisemitism when enforcing federal anti-discrimination laws. 

“Colleges and universities have seen a disturbing trend of emboldened intimidation and hate towards Jewish students, faculty and others in the wake of Hamas’ deadly attack on Israel. This intolerable and horrifying behavior has no place in our academic community, and the Department of Education should move swiftly to hold accountable anyone promoting antisemitism on campus,” Boozman said.

“Hamas’ horrific terrorist attack on October 7 led to a dramatic increase in antisemitism on college campuses,” said Casey. “Amidst this appalling increase, we must do everything we can to protect Jewish students on college campuses. This bill will make sure that going forward, the Education Department will take action against all forms of antisemitic discrimination.”

“Our nation’s institutions of higher learning have become hotbeds of antisemitism, especially in the wake of the brutal attacks against Israel and innocent civilians by Hamas and Iran,” said Scott. “It’s critical the Department of Education has the tools and resources it needs to investigate antisemitism and root out this vile hatred wherever it rears its ugly head.” 

The Antisemitism Awareness Act would make permanent the Department of Education’s usage of the IHRA definition of antisemitism, which is a vital tool helping to clarify and identify the various manifestations of prejudice and hate against the state of Israel and the Jewish community. Since 2018, the Department of Education has used the IHRA definition when investigating violations of Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. 

In addition to Boozman, Casey and Scott, the Antisemitism Awareness Act is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Jacky Rosen (D-NV), James Lankford (R-OK), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Rick Scott (R-FL), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Jerry Moran (R-KS), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Chris Coons (D-DE), Susan Collins (R-ME), Kyrsten Sinema (I-AZ), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Kristen Gillibrand (D-NY), Chuck Grassley (R-IA), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Josh Hawley (R-MO), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Katie Britt (R-AL), John Fetterman (D-PA), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Ben Cardin (D-MD), John Barrasso (R-WY), Joe Manchin (D-WV), Tom Cotton (R-AR), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), John Cornyn (R-TX), Maria Cantwell (D-WA) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV).

New parasite affecting Canadian partridges named for Arkansas poultry scientist

By John Lovett
University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture
Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station

FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — With a newly discovered poultry pathogen named in his honor, Billy Hargis has a permanent place in the annals of science. And now, the pathogen has a permanent place on Hargis.

NAMESAKE — Billy Hargis, Distinguished Professor of poultry science for the Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station, is the namesake of a newly discovered pathogen. (U of A System Division of Agriculture photo)

Eimeria hargisi is a parasite discovered by the Ontario Veterinary College at the University of Guelph following studies of a recurring disease at a commercial chukar partridge farm in Ontario, Canada.

Hargis, Distinguished Professor of poultry science and director of the John Kirkpatrick Skeeles Poultry Health Laboratory, considers having the parasite named after him an honor when coming from his longtime colleague and friend John Barta, professor of parasitology at the Ontario Veterinary College. Hargis took an image of the newly named microbe to a tattoo artist for it to be linked in ink.

“John Barta is big in the world of parasitology, so this means a lot coming from him,” Hargis said. “I wanted to commemorate it a little differently.”

The oval-shaped tattoo is on the side of his right calf, shaded in areas with pink and blue.

The Skeeles lab is part of the Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station, the research arm of the University of Arkansas System Division of Agriculture. Hargis teaches courses in the poultry science department through the Dale Bumpers College of Agricultural, Food and Life Sciences.

MEMENTO— An image of Eimeria hargisi tattoed on the leg of its namesake, Billy Hargis, Distinguished Professor of poultry science for the Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station. (U of A System Division of Agriculture photo by Paden Johnson)

Barta noted that his team of student researchers led by Ph.D. student Jessica Rotolo at the Ontario Veterinary College discovered the new species of Eimeria. The Eimeria parasite family causes a deadly disease called coccidiosis that can infect a wide range of animals, from poultry, cattle and sheep to rabbits, bats, fish and seals. The discovery of the newly named species was published in the December 2023 edition of the Journal of Parasitology.

“The parasite is named to honor Dr. Billy Hargis for his exemplary research record in support of poultry gut health and his past and ongoing advancement of coccidiosis research through the training and mentorship of future scientists,” the research team states in the study.

The last time an Arkansas poultry researcher had a parasite named after them was 2021. Barta said that previous research on the same coccidiosis infections in the Ontario-based commercial chukar partridge farm resulted in the naming of Eimeria chapmani for retired experiment station researcher David H. Chapman.

To learn more about Division of Agriculture research, visit the Arkansas Agricultural Experiment Station website: https://aaes.uada.edu. Follow on Twitter at @ArkAgResearch. To learn more about the Division of Agriculture, visit https://uada.edu/. Follow us on Twitter at @AgInArk. To learn about extension programs in Arkansas, contact your local Cooperative Extension Service agent or visit www.uaex.uada.edu.

Womack votes to reform FISA, protect Americans from terror threats

Washington, DC—April 12, 2024…Today, Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) voted for H.R. 7888, the Reforming Intelligence and Securing America (RISA) Act, which extends Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act (FISA) for two years from the date of enactment and reforms provisions to FISA to allow for greater oversight and transparency for the American people.

Congressman Womack said, “FISA Section 702’s sole focus is to gather intelligence on foreign adversaries who intend to hurt Americans. Foiling terror plots, mitigating cyberattacks, and stopping weapons of mass destruction from reaching bad actors are what we use it for. Without our extension today, American lives will be at grave risk. On top of renewing this critical provision, we approved the largest reform to the broader FISA and the FBI in a generation—with over 50 reforms to ensure there’s less potential for abuse. Our duty is to protect Americans from terrorists, and this bill is absolutely necessary to advance that mission.”

The RISA Act:

Reforms 702 querying procedures at the FBI.

• Reduces FBI personnel authorized to approve U.S. person queries by 90%.

• Prohibits the involvement of political appointees in the approval process.

• Mandates audits of 100% of U.S. person queries conducted by the FBI.

• Requires FBI to document all U.S. person queries, requires a higher level of approval for sensitive queries, and requires FBI to establish standardized procedures.

Limits the use of information obtained under 702.

• Revokes the FBI’s authority to conduct queries unrelated to national security and prohibits queries that are solely designed to find and extract evidence of a crime, subject to reasonable exceptions.

• Prohibits the Federal Bureau of Investigation from storing unminimized Section 702 information in its databases unless the information pertains to a foreign target who is relevant to an existing national security investigation.

Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Court (FISC) reform.

• Requires the same FISC judge to hear FISA renewal applications targeting a United States person unless that judge is no longer serving on the FISC.

• Requires the FISC to appoint one or more amicus curiae in the annual Section 702 judicial review process, unless the court issues a finding that such appointment is not appropriate.

• Requires a FISC judge to designate an attorney to scrutinize an application for a probable cause order to target a United States person under FISA, to provide to the judge an analysis of the sufficiency of the evidence and any weaknesses or flaws in the application.

Reforms to contents of applications for FISA orders.

• Prohibits the use of opposition research and news media reports in FISA applications unless that information is disclosed in the application and provided that it is not the sole source of the information.

Requires audits of targeting decisions under 702.

Requires audit reports by DOJ IG of compliance with the reforms of this Act.

Requires FBI to hold executive leaders accountable for FISA noncompliance and report to Congress on disciplinary actions.

Imposes new criminal penalties for FISA violations.

Increases civil damages for a U.S. person harmed by unlawful surveillance from $1,000 to $10,000.

Adds accountability measures for FBI employees that violate FISA compliance rules.

Extends Title VII (which includes Section 702) of FISA for 2 years from date of enactment.

Congressman Steve Womack (AR-3) has represented Arkansas’ Third Congressional District since 2011. He is a member of the House Appropriations Committee.

Reps. Crawford and Duarte introduce legislation to protect water systems from cyber threats

Washington – Citing persistent cyber threats to our nation’s critical water infrastructure, Congressmen Rick Crawford (AR-01) and John Duarte (CA-13) introduced H.R. 7922, the Water Risk and Resilience Organization (WRRO) Establishment Act. This legislation establishes a new governing body, the WRRO, with cyber and water-system expertise to develop and enforce cybersecurity requirements for drinking and wastewater systems. The WRRO will work in partnership with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to ensure cybersecurity measures are both practical and beneficial.

“Foreign adversaries such as Russia and China have utilized cyber-attacks to target critical infrastructure such as water systems. This bill is a more proactive approach to safeguarding our drinking and wastewater from these types of attacks. These protections are vital at a time where cyber threats are constant and technology is evolving quickly,” Rep. Crawford said.

Earlier this year, FBI Director, Christopher Wray testified to Congress that Chinese hackers have been targeting infrastructure such as water treatment plants, electrical grids, and pipelines. Just last month, other administration officials echoed this sentiment when both the national security advisor and EPA sent letters to state governors. In the letters, they urge the governors to address any vulnerabilities in their state’s water systems to minimize risks of cyber-attacks.  This is more than just a threat; cybersecurity breaches have already happened around the country. Just before last Thanksgiving, a small Pennsylvania water utility was breached by pro-Iran hackers. A Florida water treatment facility was hacked in 2021, and the hackers tried to increase the amount of beneficial chemicals in the water to unsafe levels. In February, the U.S. intelligence community reported that Chinese-backed hackers have had a presence in many critical infrastructure systems in the U.S., including water systems for as long as maybe five years.

“With the constant threat of cyberattacks by our adversaries, the United States’ water infrastructure must be secured and defended properly,” said Rep. Duarte. “I am proud to help lead this crucial legislation with Rep. Crawford to ensure that our wastewater and drinking water systems are adequately prepared to deal with potential cybersecurity threats.”

Leaders in the water system industry have shown wide support for the Water Risk and Resilience Organization Establishment Act. They recognize the importance of safeguarding this critical resource and are willing to play a role in achieving this goal.

“Strong and effective cybersecurity oversight is critical for the water sector,” said American Water Works Association CEO David LaFrance. “Rep. Crawford’s vision for a collaborative model that leverages the knowledge of the sector is the right approach for protecting water utilities from cyber-attacks.” 

“NAWC applauds the leadership of Rep. Crawford to advance legislation that helps bolster cybersecurity protections for the entire water sector. This legislation is long overdue and aligns with our guiding cybersecurity pillars, which call for greater collaboration and coordination of efforts to better protect critical water infrastructure,” said Rob Powelson, President and CEO of the National Association of Water Companies.

“Cyber threats targeting both informational and operational systems today pose a growing threat to the nation’s water systems, and a successful cyber-attack could threaten public health while also undermining the public’s confidence in their water supply. AMWA supports H.R. 7922 as a critical piece of the puzzle to defend the nation’s water systems from criminals and bad actors in cyberspace, and we thank Rep. Crawford for his leadership on this important bill,” said Tom Dobbins, CEO of the Association of Metropolitan Water Agencies.

Cyber-attacks often cost millions of dollars to address and can result in contamination, malfunctions, and service outages. Leveraging private sector expertise to provide cybersecurity awareness to thousands of public water systems across America is critical to ensuring infrastructure security.

House passes Westerman bill to expand outdoor recreation opportunities

Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Act (EXPLORE), bipartisan legislation sponsored by Congressman Bruce Westerman (AR-04) to expand outdoor recreation access nationwide.

Westerman released the following statement on the policy provisions included in the EXPLORE Act to reopen overnight camping at Albert Pike Recreation Area:

“Ever since the Forest Service suspended overnight camping at Albert Pike Recreation Area, I’ve heard from countless constituents who are disappointed with the decision and frustrated with the mismanagement of the site since the suspension. As such, I included comprehensive and responsible policies in the EXPLORE Act that will ensure the Forest Service reopens overnight camping and better manages the Albert Pike Recreation Area. No one understands the blessing of outdoor recreation opportunities quite like Arkansans, which is why I’m proud to champion the EXPLORE Act to ensure that outdoorsmen and women can safely enjoy their favorite recreation sites, like Albert Pike, for generations to come.”

Click here for Westerman’s full statement on the passage of the EXPLORE Act.

BACKGROUND:

One of the most popular sites within the Ouachita National Forest is the Albert Pike Recreation Area (APRA), a unique area that has long attracted outdoorsmen and women from across the country. The U.S. Forest Service suspended overnight camping at APRA following a major flash flood that tragically killed 20 people on June 11, 2010. Since then, APRA has been to limited day use. Congressman Westerman’s EXPLORE Act will:

• Safely re-open any existing overnight campsites outside of the 100-year flood plain within 30 days of the bill’s enactment.

• Identify 54 areas that may be suitable for overnight camping in the recreation area within 6 months of the bill’s enactment.

• Establish at least 27 new overnight camping sites outside of the 100-year flood plain, including at least 8 with electric and water hookups, for public use within 2 years of the bill’s enactment.

• Require the rehabilitation necessary to make publicly accessible areas in APRA suitable for year-round day use.

In addition to reopening overnight camping at APRA, the EXPLORE Act will:

• Improve access to public lands and waters for outdoor recreation.

• Modernize technology to improve visitor experiences, like increasing broadband connectivity and creating digital recreation passes.

• Streamline the permitting process and reduce fees for small businesses that depend on public land access.

• Protect rock climbing in iconic places and create new long-distance bike trails.

• Restore campgrounds and modernize infrastructure.

• Support gateway communities by addressing housing shortages and outdated infrastructure.

• Improve accessibility for military service members, veterans, individuals with disabilities and children.

The EXPLORE Act is supported by more than 100 outdoor organizations, including several Arkansas based organizations who advocate for hunting, fishing, horseback riding, recreational boating, rock climbing, and more.

Click herefor more information.

Boozman, Manchin, Budd Lead Bipartisan Resolution Honoring Gold Star Spouses

WASHINGTON – The U.S. Senate unanimously passed U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR), Joe Manchin (D-WV) and Ted Budd’s (R-NC) bipartisan resolution to designate today, April 5, 2024, as Gold Star Wives Day. The resolution honors the sacrifices made by the spouses and families of fallen members of the United States Armed Forces. 

“The loved ones of our fallen servicemembers experience a sense of loss and grief that few will ever know. We must always commemorate their sacrifice while also honoring the incredible courage and resilience it demands of the spouses, children and parents left behind. This resolution helps extend to these Gold Star families the eternal gratitude they are owed by those of us who enjoy the freedoms so many American heroes have given their lives to protect,” said Boozman. 

“We will never be able to repay our brave servicemen and women and their families who have paid the ultimate price to protect our beloved country. West Virginians and Americans are forever grateful to these heroic patriots, and I’m proud to lead this bipartisan resolution to designate April 5, 2024 as Gold Star Wives Day to honor their dedication and sacrifice. Gayle and I extend our deepest condolences and profound gratitude to every Gold Star family and spouse,” said Manchin. 

“We are forever indebted to all those who lay down their lives to protect and defend us. We often forget the sacrifice that military families also bear. That’s why I’m proud to help pass a bipartisan resolution honoring Gold Star spouses. I would like to extend the gratitude and condolences of all North Carolinians to the spouses of those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our country,” Budd said.

On April 5, 1945, First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt convened the first meeting of the Gold Star Wives of America, a congressionally-chartered nonprofit to acknowledge the incredible sacrifices of the families of those who died in service during World War II. 

Boozman has also introduced bipartisan legislation that would adjust monthly benefits for family members and survivors of veterans who lost their lives in service to our country. The Caring for Survivors Act of 2023 will bring parity to payments for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC) recipients, which currently lag behind other federal program payments by nearly 12 percent. The bill is supported by Gold Star Wives of America. 

The full text of the resolution can be found here.

ICYMI: Westerman expresses concerns on EPA IRIS program & risk assessment of formaldehyde

WASHINGTON - Last week, Congressman Bruce Westerman (AR-04) sent a letter to leadership at the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), and the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) expressing concern on the EPA’s Integrated Risk Information System Program (IRIS) program and how its risk assessment of formaldehyde could negatively impact important sectors of the economy and the environment.

In part, Westerman wrote:
“I urge each of you to work together to fully examine the impacts that this IRIS assessment and forthcoming EPA actions might have on several issues under the purview of each of your agencies before the EPA finalizes this risk assessment. Section 7 of the Endangered Species Act, Section 9 of TSCA, EPA’s IRIS process, and Executive Order 12866 all contain specific requirements for interagency coordination. My concern is that this is not currently happening. In December, the EPA announced its search for candidates to assist in the peer review of the formaldehyde risk assessment and signaled that it “intends to defer to the draft 2022” IRIS assessment for forthcoming regulatory activities under TSCA and FIFRA. This assessment fails to live up to the interagency review process that is paramount to making decisions that protect the environment and public health. I urge you all to address these issues before the EPA moves forward with the IRIS risk assessment of formaldehyde.”

BACKGROUND:

• In Fall 2023, Congressman Westerman visited Bakelite Synthetics in Crossett, Arkansas, where he heard concerns from stakeholders on the EPA’s lack of consultation with the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (NWS) on its IRIS assessment of formaldehyde.

• The EPA’s IRIS Program is located within the EPA’s Office of Research and Development; this program develops risk assessments for certain chemicals.

• While the EPA plays an important role in protecting public health and the environment, the IRIS program has long been the subject of scrutiny and has been seen as lacking transparency. The U.S. Government Accountability Office issued reports in 2020 and 2022 citing concerns with delays in the process and the need for greater transparency.

• The IRIS assessment for formaldehyde is currently under development at EPA; this assessment could potentially be used to inform regulatory activities under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) and the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA), among others. Regulations under these statutes can have numerous impacts across industries.

• In recent years, Members of Congress on both sides of the aisle have repeatedly raised concerns about this assessment, specifically that an unworkable or unachievable standard would negatively impact multiple sectors of the economy and the environment.

• Congressman Westerman’s letter echoes these concerns, encouraging the EPA, the NMFS, and the FWS to work together in evaluating and developing this IRIS assessment.

• Given formaldehyde’s prevalence across sectors of the economy—with Arkansas home to multiple facilities that produce this chemical—the process to develop this risk assessment needs to utilize the best available science and ensure that all agencies with an interest in the issue are consulted.

Click here to read the full letter. 

State officials take steps to avoid spread of avian influenza in dairy cattle

by George Jared (gjared@talkbusiness.net)

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Animal Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has confirmed highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in dairy herds in Texas, Kansas, Michigan, Idaho, and New Mexico.

Symptoms of the virus in dairy cattle include decreased lactation, low appetite, and thickening of milk.

To date, there have been no reported cases of HPAI in livestock within Arkansas, the state’s Department of Agriculture has reported. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed that a dairy farm worker tested positive for HPAI in Texas on April 1.

State officials take steps to avoid spread of avian influenza in dairy cattle

Cotton, Sullivan, Colleagues to Austin: NATO is Not a Charity

Washington, D.C. — Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas), along with Senator Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska) and 20 of their Senate Republican colleagues, today sent a letter to Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin requesting an update on how the Department of Defense evaluates U.S. activities as they relate to North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) members’ defense expenditures, in compliance with the requirement in the FY24 NDAA.

Co-signing the letter were Senators Rick Scott (R-Florida), Marsha Blackburn (R-Tennessee), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Ted Budd (R-North Carolina), Kevin Cramer (R-North Dakota), Pete Ricketts (R-Nebraska), Mike Braun (R-Indiana), Ted Cruz (R-Texas), John Hoeven (R-North Dakota), Katie Britt (R-Alabama), Jerry Moran (R-Kansas), James Lankford (R-Oklahoma), Bill Hagerty (R-Tennessee), Marco Rubio (R-Florida), Tim Scott (R-South Carolina), Deb Fischer (R-Nebraska), Cynthia Lummis (R-Wyoming), Mike Rounds (R-South Dakota), Lindsey Graham (R-South Carolina), and Josh Hawley (R-Missouri).

In part, the senators wrote:

“NATO is not a charity; it’s a military alliance. All NATO members must bear a meaningful share of the burdens of collective defense.”

Full text of the letter may be found here and below.

April 4, 2024

The Honorable Lloyd J. Austin III
Secretary of Defense?
1000 Defense Pentagon
Washington, D.C. 20301-1000

Dear Mr. Secretary,

We write to you inquiring how the Department of Defense is implementing Section 1250 of the Fiscal Year 2024 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). This provision of law requires you to consider whether a NATO partner “has achieved defense spending of not less than 2 percent of its gross domestic product” when weighing decisions related to U.S. military basing, training, and exercises within the alliance.

We are committed to the historic NATO alliance and are encouraged that NATO countries collectively increased defense spending by 11% in 2023. However, a total of only 11 out of 32 NATO countries presently meet their defense spending commitments under the 2014 Wales and 2023 Vilnius Summit Declarations. According to optimistic estimates, 18 NATO nations are expected to meet their defense spending commitments this year. This means that barely half of NATO members will meet the deadline to increase defense spending to a minimum of two percent of gross domestic product—a deadline that was self-imposed and agreed to by unanimous consent.

Many wealthy NATO members have chronically shortchanged their own militaries and relied on other members of the alliance, particularly the United States, to make the investments necessary to achieve collective defense. The United States cannot be expected to satisfy its financial obligation if other NATO members are unwilling or unable to do the same. Our government must hold these allies accountable and Section 1250 of the FY24 NDAA is an important step in that direction.

NATO is not a charity; it’s a military alliance. All NATO members must bear a meaningful share of the burdens of collective defense.

We therefore request an update no later than April 25 on how the Department of Defense evaluates U.S. activities as they relate to NATO members’ defense expenditures, in compliance with the requirement in the FY24 NDAA.

We appreciate your attention to this important matter.

 Sincerely,

National Weather Service Eclipse Weather Briefing for Arkansas

A large storm system will be over the southwest United States during the day of the eclipse. Ahead of the system, a south to southwest flow will bring increasing moisture and the possibility of clouds/chances of showers throughout the path of totality in Arkansas.  

Important to Remember: Despite vast improvements of weather models in recent years, any information over more than a few days of a specific time is subject to change. Forecast details will be fine tuned as additional data is received up to the time of the eclipse.   

Cotton, Colleagues to Biden: Hosting Iraqi Prime Minister is Inappropriate, Undermines Israel

Washington, D.C. — Senator Tom Cotton (R-Arkansas) and 7 of his congressional colleagues today sent a letter to President Joe Biden to express their deep concern with the White House’s plan to host Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani in April.

The letter notes that President Biden’s decision to meet with Prime Minister al-Sudani at this time sends the message that the Biden administration is more interested in appeasing Iran than supporting Israel defeat Hamas. The planned visit will occur even as Iraq continues to fund numerous terror groups and remains under significant Iranian influence.

Co-signing the letter were Senator Ted Budd (R-North Carolina), Senator Bill Hagerty (R-Tennessee), Senator Rick Scott (R-Florida), Congressman Jake Ellzey (Texas-06), Congressman French Hill (Arkansas-02), Congressman Mike Turner (Ohio-10), and Congressman Mike Waltz (Florida-06). 

Text of the letter may be found here and below.

March 28, 2024

President Joseph R. Biden
The White House,
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW
Washington, DC 20502

Dear President Biden,

We write to express our deep concern with your invitation to host Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani to the White House in April. 

Hosting the Iraqi Prime Minister, especially while failing to meet with leaders of some of our most trusted partners in the region, amplifies the message of your ongoing campaign to undermine Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu: The Biden administration is interested in appeasing Iran, not supporting our allies. 

The Iraqi government remains under significant Iranian influence, and the Iraqi government provides some $3 billion per year to the Iran-backed Popular Mobilization Forces militias, including four U.S.-designated terrorist groups. These militias have attacked Americans and Kurdistan over 180 times just since October 7, 2023, resulting in three American servicemember deaths and over 100 casualties. Yet you continue granting sanctions waivers to the Iraqi government to import Iranian electricity and natural gas, all while using U.S. dollars transferred to Iraq from the Federal Reserve. And while you invite the Iraqi Prime Minister to visit Washington, you have refused to meet with Kurdistan Prime Minister Masrour Barzani, a critical partner and the host of the most U.S. forces in the region. 

The Iraqi government is actively working with Tehran against our Kurdish allies, including cutting off government funds and closing the Iraq-Turkey Pipeline, which represents most of Kurdistan’s economy. You should focus on reducing Iranian influence in Iraq and shoring up support for our partners in Kurdistan. As a precondition of any visit by Prime Minister al-Sudani, you should require the immediate reopening of the Iraq-Turkey Pipeline so that the Kurdistan Region is able to export oil and U.S. public and private financing are no longer threatened by Tehran’s influence in Baghdad. You should also require that the Iraqi government resume funding for the Kurdistan Region, the immediate sale of Kurdistan crude already at the Ceyhan port, and a full cycle of oil sales and payments to Kurdistan and its oil investors. Finally, you should not allow further U.S. dollar transfers to Iraq until the Treasury Department certifies that such transfers do not benefit the Iranian regime or its proxies.

Your appeasement of Iran has endangered American national security and weakened our relationship with our allies. While the corrective actions outlined here will not undo the damage you’ve caused, they represent an important first step.  Thank you for your attention to this important matter.

Sincerely,

Boozman, Heinrich, Kennedy Lead Introduction of Bipartisan Legislation to Restore Wetlands and Migratory Bird Habitat

WASHINGTON — U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR) and Martin Heinrich (D-NM), members of the Migratory Bird Conservation Commission, along with Senator John Kennedy (R-LA) lead their colleagues in introducing bipartisan legislation to reauthorize the North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA) through 2028. The legislation would also increase authorized annual funding for the program to $65 million. 

NAWCA was originally enacted in 1989 to provide federal matching grants —in partnership with funding from state and local governments, private industry and non-profit organizations—to projects that conserve North America’s wetlands, waterfowl and wildlife.  

“Tens of thousands of acres of wildlife habitat have been conserved in Arkansas thanks to NAWCA, which helps promote and maintain wetlands that serve as a world-class duck hunting environment. Ensuring we continue to protect and preserve it and other outdoor recreation sites not only benefits migratory bird populations and other species, it is also a sound economic investment. I’m proud to join Sen. Heinrich and our colleagues to introduce legislation reauthorizing this important program,” said Boozman.

“We owe it to our kids and grandkids to ensure they can inherit the full breadth of American wildlife and the wetlands that sustain them,” said Heinrich. “I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation to bolster our nation’s most successful wetlands restoration program. By reauthorizing the North American Wetlands Conservation Act, this legislation will improve access to clean drinking water, invest in our thriving multi-billion-dollar outdoor recreation economy and conserve New Mexico’s wildlife and the habitats they depend on for future generations.” 

“Louisiana’s wetlands are a big part of our state’s outdoor sportsman culture and geographical beauty. The North American Wetlands Conservation Act is an important step to preserve our wildlife and protect our environment’s natural defense system,” said Kennedy. 

Wetlands secure freshwater supplies, recharge aquifers, and mitigate soil erosion and flooding. In addition, waterfowl, migratory birds, fish and other wildlife that depend on wetlands support multibillion-dollar outdoor recreation activities such as hunting, fishing, wildlife viewing, and photography. NAWCA funding has been critical to acquiring, restoring and enhancing this habitat in all 50 states, Canada and Mexico. In total, more than 3,300 NAWCA projects have contributed to the conservation and restoration of more than 32 million acres of habitat all across North America. 

NAWCA has provided a great return on investment, generating on average two additional dollars for every federal dollar. Over the program’s history, federal grants totaling more than $2.1 billion have spurred $4.3 billion for NAWCA projects through matching funds. NAWCA funds have also supported an average of 7,500 jobs each year and more than $5 billion in annual economic activity. 

The legislation was cosponsored by U.S. Senators Chris Coons (D-DE), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Susan Collins (R-ME), Ben Cardin (D-MD), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Tina Smith (D-MN), Jon Tester (D-MT) and Chris Van Hollen (D-MD). 

The North American Wetlands Conservation Act is endorsed by Delta Waterfowl, Boone and Crockett, Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership, Backcountry Hunters and Anglers, Audubon, Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies, Outdoor Industry Association, Chesapeake Bay Foundation and Restore America’s Estuaries. 

“NAWCA is a foundational pillar of the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation,” said Ducks Unlimited CEO Adam Putnam. “The voluntary, incentive-based approach has conserved millions of acres of habitat for waterfowl and other wildlife while helping improve water quality and quantity and making our communities more resilient.”  

“The North American Wetlands Conservation Act is one of the most cost-effective conservation investments we can make. Often matched at a rate of 3:1, this important program is a great example of how federal investments into conservation can be leveraged with private contributions to secure a significant return on investment to bolster on-the-ground conservation,” said Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation President and CEO Jeff Crane.

“Wetlands shield against floods, help clean our drinking water and provide habitat for diverse plant and animal life. Reauthorizing the North American Wetlands Conservation Act is an opportunity for Congress to continue America's conservation legacy while sparking job creation and outdoor recreation opportunities.” said Tom Cors, Senior Legislative Director, The Nature Conservancy.  

“North America’s wetlands demonstrate what is possible for people, wildlife and clean water when we make strategic, concerted investments in conserving and restoring vital habitat,” said Andrew Wilkins, Land Conservation Policy Director, National Wildlife Federation. “This reauthorization bill will help keep our commitment to wetlands conservation strong and ensure that the people and wildlife whose work, water and way of life can endure for future generations. Congress should ensure the North American Wetlands Conservation Act remains one of America’s most successful conservation programs since it first passed in 1989.”  

The text of the bill is here. 

Crawford, Cohen, Boozman, Cotton, introduce bill to mint coin memorializing Sultana disaster

Washington — Congressmen Rick Crawford (AR-01) and Steve Cohen (TN-09), along with U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR) and Tom Cotton (R-AR), introduced legislation to create a commemorative coin in remembrance of the greatest maritime disaster in U.S. history – the sinking of the Sultana Steamboat. A portion of the proceeds from the sale of the coin  will help fund the preservation, maintenance, and display of artifacts at the Sultana Disaster Museum in Marion, Arkansas, as well as assist in the construction of a new and larger facility.

“The tragedy of the Sultana is one that is often forgotten about, but it serves as an important reminder of our past and the lives that were lost. This bill helps fund the efforts of those at the Sultana Disaster Museum who have dedicated their time to telling this story and keeping the memory of the victims alive. I’m proud to work with my friend Steve Cohen to bring awareness about what happened so long ago, during that horrible time of extreme fracture and violence, where brother fought against brother. I hope that Steve and my working together, across the aisle, for this shared purpose can show Americans that brighter days are always in front of us,” said Crawford.

“The Sultana disaster and loss of life in the Mississippi River within sight of Memphis in 1865 deserves the commemoration this coin represents. Americans should know of the sacrifice made by so many in the tragic days as the Civil War finally drew to an end, as well as the senseless negligence that caused it. I’m pleased to work with my friend Rick Crawford, who represents the Crittenden County graveyard of the historic steamship northwest of Memphis, and hope our efforts bring further attention to this tragic footnote in American history,” said Cohen.

“As community support for the Sultana Disaster Museum continues to grow, we’re carrying the momentum in Congress by introducing this legislation to preserve the history of this tragedy and honor the victims and survivors with a commemorative coin. I’m proud to join this initiative to ensure both are forever remembered,” said Boozman.

“This coin will continue to honor the victims, and raise awareness about one of the worst tragedies in our military’s history. It is an important piece of history that I’m proud to join the Arkansas delegation in remembering,” said Cotton.

Sultana Disaster Museum Picture

The Sultana was a 260-foot-long wooden steamboat that exploded, burned, and sank into the Mississippi River on April 27, 1865. This tragedy claimed the lives of more than 1,000 passengers. Most of the victims were released Union prisoners of war who were returning to the north after the end of the Civil War.

Efforts to preserve artifacts from the Sultana began in 1982 when the remains of the Sultana were rediscovered. In 2011, Arkansas State University hosted the first public exhibit of relics from the disaster. A small museum opened in Marion to house these pieces of history and, after persistent efforts from the community and the Sultana Historical Preservation Society, ground was broken in November 2022 on a new multi-million dollar facility to host this educational and economic resource. 

This legislation would authorize the U.S. Department of Treasury to mint in 2027 $5 gold coins, $1 silver coins and half-dollar coins.

Retailers win class-action settlement with Visa, Mastercard over swipe fees

by Kim Souza (ksouza@talkbusiness.net)

U.S. retailers and merchants reached a settlement over swipe fees with Visa and Mastercard that is expected to reduce swipe fees over the next five years by $29.79 billion.

Through the agreement, which merchants say is one of the largest in U.S. antitrust history, Visa and Mastercard will lower published credit-card interchange fees by four basis points in the U.S. for at least three years. The companies also won’t raise interchange fees for five years above the rates that were in place at the end of 2023.

“This settlement is the culmination of eight years of hard-fought litigation and detailed, painstaking negotiations. It provides comprehensive market-based solutions to too-high swipe fees while providing immediate fee relief to merchants as they make these new competitive tools work for them,” said Steve Shadowen, co-lead counsel for the retailers.

Retailers win class-action settlement with Visa, Mastercard over swipe fees