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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, New Orleans lost a giant, and I lost a friend.

Jerome “Big Duck” Smith was a freedom fighter, a mentor and a servant of this community who loved his people deeply.

Duck didn’t have much patience for excuses. If our children needed something, he was going to fight until somebody listened.

That was Big Duck.

It was never about Jerome. It was always about somebody else.

His civil rights work did not stop with the movement of the 1960s. He spent the rest of his life carrying that work forward through Tambourine and Fan, teaching generations of young people where they came from, what they were capable of, and why they mattered.

I am grateful that I had the chance to know him, work with him, laugh with him and, yes, sometimes be pushed by him. More than anything, I am grateful that I was able to tell him while he was still here what he meant to me and what he meant to this city.

New Orleans is better because Big Duck walked these streets.

To his family, his loved ones and the entire Tambourine and Fan family, my prayers are with you.

Rest well, my brother. Thank you for loving this city and its people enough to spend your life fighting for them.

Rest in power, Big Duck.

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Recently, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) led the Flood Resilience Caucus in sending a letter to Secretary Markwayne Mullin, U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Administrator Cameron Hamilton, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and members of the FEMA Review Council. The Members provided a response to FEMA Review Council Report Key Recommendation 7 – Reform the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) for Financial Stability and Risk Resilience. The Flood Resilience Caucus is co-chaired by Reps. Troy Carter (D-LA), Mike Ezell (R-MS), Lizzie Fletcher (D-TX), and Randy K. Weber, Sr. (R-TX).

“The federal government needs a federal flood insurance program that keeps coverage affordable, narrows the insurance gap, and rewards mitigation—yet Risk Rating 2.0 has undermined these goals. Since its October 2021 rollout, our offices have fielded steady complaints from policyholders about the new pricing methodology, which has increased affordability pressure and widened the coverage gap. The average NFIP policy now costs $1,808 annually, a 103.6% jump over legacy rates,” the Members wrote. “Clearly, NFIP reform is necessary. The FEMA Review Council’s Final Report provides a platform for this action; however, nuance is needed to achieve desired results in line with FEMA’s mission of ‘helping people before, during and after disasters.’”

On May 7, 2026, the FEMA Review Council released its final report of findings and recommendations, proposing a range of policy shifts. The report calls for gradually shifting NFIP toward the private market through continued implementation of Risk Rating 2.0, updated flood mapping, risk-based pricing, and a voluntary program to transfer policies to private insurers, with the ultimate goal of moving the bulk of flood coverage into the private market. This approach will weaken a program already struggling to retain policyholders by pulling the lowest-risk policies out to private insurers, leaving NFIP holding a smaller, more concentrated pool of higher-risk properties, driving up average losses, shrinking premium revenue, and deepening the program's debt to the Treasury. Policyholders already face rising premiums under a “risk-based” model whose actual math they cannot see. FEMA has never released the full underlying Risk Rating 2.0 formula or subjected it to independent, third-party verification, leaving homeowners and local officials unable to check whether their individual rating factors (flood distance, elevation, mitigation credits) are correct and fair.

The lawmakers provided the following feedback to the FEMA Review Council:

1. Empower Communities (Better Land-Use Policies)
2. Modernize Risk Assessment (Update Risk Rating 2.0 & Improve Maps)
3. Implement Risk-Based Pricing & Actual Costs
4. Revise ‘Write Your Own’ Compensation
5. Shift to Private Market through Depopulation of Existing NFIP Policies
6. Evaluate Development of Flood Insurance Marketplace
7. Address Repetitive Loss Properties

“CSFI appreciates the Flood Resilience Caucus for uplifting common-sense NFIP improvements, from a means-tested affordability program to a third-party review of Risk Rating 2.0.  Flood events have occurred in 99% of counties over the past 20 years, and the peril affects essentially all congressional districts, although only 4% of American households have flood coverage.  As NFIP participation continues to fall from a peak of 5.7M to under 4.5M now, CSFI encourages Congress to act on this program before more policyholders are priced out, while advancing sustainable solutions that reduce risk across perils.,” said Michael Hecht, President & CEO of Greater New Orleans, Inc. (GNO, Inc.) and founder of the Coalition for Sustainable Flood Insurance (CSFI).

Additional lawmakers signing onto the effort include Reps. Cleo Fields (D-LA) and LaMonica McIver (D-NJ).

Background:

Members of the Bipartisan Flood Resilience Caucus recognize the importance of acting now to adapt communities and build resilience in the face of rising sea levels and extreme weather events. Research shows that proactive investments in adaptive measures, such as elevating homes and retrofitting infrastructure, can save taxpayers an average of six dollars for every one dollar of federal spending.

Read the full letter here.

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressmen Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA), Mike Ezell (R-MS), and Salud Carbajal (D-CA) introduced the Safeguarding Tomorrow through Ongoing Risk Mitigation FORTIFIED and Wildfire Prepared Act, or STORM FORTIFIED and Wildfire Prepared Act. This legislation would establish funding to help states finance homeowner mitigation projects to reach FORTIFIED Roof, FORTIFIED Home, and Wildfire Prepared Home certifications that lower home insurance premiums.

“Louisianians know better than anyone that storms are coming stronger and lasting longer,” said Rep. Carter. “I’m proud to lead this bipartisan initiative that will make it easier for Americans to fortify their homes before the next storm comes. Making these smart investments now will protect homeowners when the next storm inevitably hits and lower their insurance premiums. It’s a win-win solution.”

The American home insurance industry is in crisis. Louisiana has some of the highest home insurance premiums in the country; the average Louisiana homeowner pays over $3,700 per year, roughly 55% more than the national average. Nationally, premiums rose roughly 24% to 47% between 2021 and 2024, while Louisiana premiums rose roughly 74% during that time. Home insurance premiums now take up about 9% of the typical mortgage payment, and up to 15-20% in high-risk states. Higher premiums are driven largely by worsening natural disasters, rising rebuilding costs, and insurers pulling out of risky markets altogether.

One proven way to lower rates and stabilize the industry is to harden homes to verified industry standards. The Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) sets science-based construction standards called “FORTIFIED and Wildfire Prepared Home” to make buildings stronger against severe weather like hurricanes, hail, tornadoes, and wildfires. Homes certified to this standard are measurably more storm-resistant, and insurers in over a dozen states, including Louisiana, now reward those mitigation measures with real discounts — often 25-55% off the wind/hail portion of a premium, as roof damage drives up to 90% of catastrophe claims. For homeowners looking to lower their premiums rather than just absorb premium increases, IBHS-certified upgrades are among the few reliable levers.

With over 14,000 FORTIFIED designations across the state, Louisiana is quickly becoming a national example of resilience through fortified roof installations. The Louisiana Fortify Homes Program, run by the Louisiana Department of Insurance, has approved 5,459 $10,000 fortified roof grants. However, more funding is needed to expand access to fortified roof funding. The Louisiana Fortify Homes Program is heavily oversubscribed. In February 2026, only about 20% of those who registered in lotteries for the Fortify Homes Program received grants.

“Families along the Mississippi Gulf Coast know that preparing for the next storm is not optional, but the cost of making a home more resilient can put critical improvements out of reach,” said Rep. Ezell. “The STORM FORTIFIED and Wildfire Prepared Act gives homeowners another tool to strengthen their homes before disaster strikes, while helping reduce damage and potentially lower insurance costs. This bipartisan legislation is a commonsense investment in stronger homes, safer communities, and greater financial security for families in disaster-prone areas like South Mississippi.”

“California is no stranger to wildfires and other natural disasters, which have driven home insurance premiums higher in recent years,” said Rep. Carbajal. “I'm proud to co-lead this bipartisan bill that gives homeowners the support they need to make their homes more resilient to extreme weather. These upgrades are a commonsense way to help reduce costs and better protect families and their homes."

“Louisiana has emerged as a leader in FORTIFIED roof adoption, and this adaptation has been essential in stabilizing of our state's insurance market. By investing in successful precedents and proven solutions, Congress will strengthen American homes and communities. We applaud this multi-peril approach towards risk mitigation across our nation, and we encourage continued intervention and innovation,” said Michael Hecht, President & CEO of Greater New Orleans, Inc.

“Louisiana families cannot afford to keep paying more for less protection. Louisiana needs nearly 445,000 FORTIFIED roofs, at an estimated cost of approximately $6.161 billion, to make homes safer, stabilize communities, and begin bringing insurance costs back within reach. The STORM Fortified Act is the kind of bold, practical investment we need—providing up to $100 million each year to strengthen homes before the next storm, not after disaster has already taken everything. This is about more than shingles and nails; it is about protecting generational wealth, keeping seniors, workers, and families in their homes, and making sure Louisiana remains a place where our people can afford to live and recover with dignity,” said Andreanecia M. Morris, President of HousingLOUISIANA.

Background:

The STORM FORTIFIED and Wildfire Prepared Act:

• Authorizes $100 million annually (FY 2027–2036) for FEMA to capitalize and recapitalize revolving loan funds for states. States must use funds solely for homeowner mitigation grants.
• Provides low-interest loans for homeowner mitigation projects, including fortified roof installations and other upgrades needed for FORTIFIED Roof, FORTIFIED Home, or Wildfire Prepared Home certifications. Loans are eligible to be forgivable for homeowners with incomes below 120% of the area median income (AMI).
• Allows states to provide mitigation grants to uninsured homeowners so they can enter the insurance market.
• Directs FEMA to promote insurer recognition of mitigation certifications for premium discounts.

The STORM FORTIFIED and Wildfire Prepared Act is endorsed by Greater New Orleans, Inc., Coalition for Sustainable Flood Insurance, United Policyholders, American Property Casualty Insurance Association (APCIA), Habitat for Humanity International, Environmental Defense Fund, Habitat for Humanity of Greater Baton Rouge, Habitat for Humanity of Greater New Orleans, Habitat for Humanity St. Tammany West, East St. Tammany Habitat for Humanity, Lafayette Habitat for Humanity, Habitat for Humanity Greater Boston, Pensacola Habitat for Humanity, Greater New Orleans Housing Alliance (GNOHA), HousingNOLA, HousingLOUISIANA, and Smart Home America.

Read the full bill text here.

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) introduced the State Offices of Women’s Health Support and Expansion Act. This legislation creates a $55 million dollar grant program at the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) to support the creation and maintenance of a new or existing state office of women’s health in states across the country.

“Every state deserves the tools to prioritize women’s health,” said Rep. Carter. “In Louisiana, our office of women’s health has shown what’s possible when states invest in the specific needs of women throughout every stage of life. This bill takes that model and makes it available nationwide, giving states the resources to build or strengthen offices that address reproductive and maternal health, chronic disease, and the disparities that too many women, especially women of color and those in rural communities, continue to face. Women’s health should never be an afterthought in our health care system. This legislation is a common-sense investment in making sure it isn't.”

This bill ensures that states like Louisiana, who currently have a state office of women’s health, will receive funds to support its existing office and expand the programming and services offered. It also provides funds for states who don't have a state office and want to create one.

“Every woman deserves access to the resources, information, and care she needs, not just to survive, but to live a healthy, thriving life,” said Nourbese Flint, President of All* Above All and All* In Action Fund. “Strengthening and establishing new Offices of Women’s Health in states across the country is a critical step toward ensuring women’s health is not an afterthought, but a priority in policymaking. These offices can help ensure that the needs of women, particularly those too often overlooked by our health care system, are reflected in the decisions that shape their lives. We are proud to support this important legislation because every community deserves the tools, leadership, and accountability needed to confront persistent health inequities and improve health outcomes for women and families.”

“UWSELA applauds Congressman Carter for introducing the State Offices of Women’s Health Support and Expansion Act! Our advocates know just how important it is to remain focused on ensuring Women’s Health remains a top priority and we are honored to support this legislation!” said Toya Barnes-Teamer, Ph.D., Chairman, United Way of Southeast Louisiana Public Policy Committee.

“At a time when women's health is being undermined through dangerous abortion bans, devastating cuts to health care, and attacks on birth control, it is more important than ever that states take meaningful steps to invest in women's health care,” said Dorianne Mason, Senior Director of Health Equity at the National Women's Law Center Action Fund. “We are proud to endorse the State Offices of Women’s Health Support and Expansion Act, which would help strengthen state efforts to improve health outcomes for women and counter the relentless attacks on women's health. We are grateful to Representative Carter for championing this critical legislation, and we urge the House to pass this commonsense bill without delay.”

“Everyone should be able to get the health care they need, when they need it. The health care crisis in this country has denied too many access to preventative care, management for chronic illness, and time-sensitive reproductive health care. As lawmakers continue to try and dismantle our nation’s health care infrastructure, it’s critical to provide states, communities, and providers the resources they need to give patients the care they deserve. We thank Rep. Carter for introducing this bill that will improve access to health care for women, including sexual and reproductive health care,” said Alexis McGill Johnson, president and CEO, Planned Parenthood Federation of America.

“At a time when federal investments in public health infrastructure and women’s health research are increasingly uncertain, In Our Own Voice is proud to support the State Offices of Women’s Health Support and Expansion Act,” said Regina Davis Moss, President and CEO of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women’s Reproductive Justice Agenda. “These investments in strengthening state-level efforts around public education, research and community-informed initiatives are especially critical for Black women, girls, and gender-expansive people who continue to face significant inequities across our health care system. By giving states more tools to identify gaps, share medically accurate information and develop solutions grounded in the needs of their communities, this legislation moves us closer to the full vision of Reproductive Justice.”

Background:

The State Offices of Women’s Health Support and Expansion Act is endorsed by Power to Decide, American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists, National Family Planning & Reproductive Health Association, Planned Parenthood Federation of America, Center for Reproductive Rights, National Latina Institute for Reproductive Justice, In Our Own Voice: National Black Women's Reproductive Justice Agenda, National Women's Law Center (NWLC), All Above All, National Partnership for Women and Families, National Asian Pacific American Women's Forum (NAPAWF), LIFT Louisiana,  REJAC NOLA, Louisiana Coalition for Reproductive Freedom, Women With a Vision, Birthmark Doula Collective, The Amandla Group, Sauls Light, Nancy Davis Foundation,10,000 Women Louisiana, United Way of Southeast Louisiana, New Orleans Maternal and Child Health Coalition, Mama + Health Policy Collaborative, A'Sani Heartbeat Foundation, and Dad A-Port.

Read the full bill text here.                     

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA), alongside Reps. Neal Dunn (R-FL) and Angie Craig (D-MN) introduced the Improving Coordination and Access to Resources Equitably (CARE) for Youth Act. This bipartisan legislation increases access to mental health services for children enrolled in Medicaid.

“This is a common-sense, no-cost fix that removes a bureaucratic barrier standing between patients and the integrated care model that providers already want to deliver. When a doctor identifies a need for behavioral health support, that patient shouldn't have to wait — they should be able to see a provider down the hall, right then and there,” said Rep. Carter. “The Improving CARE for Youth Act allows Medicaid to reimburse for behavioral health and primary care services delivered on the same day, at the same visit. This is lifesaving care for patients when they need it most.”

Under current Medicaid policy, health care providers generally may only bill for one service per patient per day. As a result, when a child visits a primary care physician and is identified as needing behavioral or mental health services, practices with an integrated mental health provider often cannot bill for both the primary care visit and the same-day mental health service. This outdated billing restriction discourages same-day treatment, forcing many children to schedule a separate appointment and delaying access to critical care.

“Our nation is facing a growing youth mental health crisis, and we should be removing barriers to care, not creating them,” said Rep. Dunn. “As a physician, I know that early intervention can make a profound difference in a child's long-term health and well-being. Protecting the future of the youth in our country is too important to be hindered by a Medicaid billing restriction. The Improving CARE for Youth Act ensures children can receive the care they need when they need it.”

“We are facing a mental health crisis in our country, and we've got to make sure young people have access to the mental health care they need when they need it,” said Rep Craig. “I’m proud to reintroduce this bipartisan bill alongside my colleagues that will remove barriers to mental health care for children on Medicaid and ensure a better future for our kids and grandkids.”

Read the full bill text here.

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) issued the following statement:

“I have always supported Israel’s right to defend itself against Hamas and other terrorist organizations that threaten its people. Israel has the right to live in peace and security, and nothing in my position should be interpreted otherwise.

“But our support for an ally does not mean we should remain silent when innocent lives are being lost on such a devastating scale. The deaths of thousands of Palestinian civilians, especially women and children, the destruction of homes, hospitals, schools, and vital infrastructure, and the ongoing humanitarian crisis demand that we speak with both honesty and compassion.

“In my view, Prime Minister Netanyahu’s government has impeded efforts toward peace and protecting innocent civilians, including from violent attacks by Israeli settlers in the West Bank. America has both the right and the responsibility to ensure that our assistance reflects our values and our commitment to human rights.

“For that reason, I am supporting Representative Thomas Massie’s amendment. It is a vote for accountability. It is a vote to say that American support should encourage peace, protect innocent lives, and advance the values we stand for as a nation.

“I continue to support the immediate release of every hostage, a permanent ceasefire, the full delivery of humanitarian aid, and renewed negotiations that lead to two states, Israel and Palestine, living side by side in peace, security, and mutual respect.

“The people of Israel and Palestine deserve to live with dignity and hope. We cannot allow another generation of children to grow up surrounded by violence and loss.

“I believe in the long-term partnership that the American people have with the people of Israel and in America’s enduring commitment to a more peaceful, stable, and secure Middle East. That future must include dignity, security, and self-determination for both Israelis and Palestinians. I firmly state that the policies of the Netanyahu government cannot continue.

“Peace is never easy. But it is always worth pursuing. That is the future I will continue to work toward.”

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representatives Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) and Nikki Budzinski (D-IL) recently sent a letter to Director Russell Vought, Office of Management and Budget (OMB), in strong opposition to the Office of Management and Budget's proposed rule to overhaul how federal grants are awarded and administered, impacting over $1 trillion in annual Federal awards.

“This proposal would represent the most sweeping and destructive transformation of the federal financial assistance system in modern history and would subordinate nonpartisan, merit-based grantmaking to political control, exposing the entire framework to serious constitutional challenge,” the Members wrote. “With more than $1 trillion in annual Federal awards at stake, the consequences would be felt by every state, federally recognized tribe, city, county, research university, hospital, and countless nonprofits, community organizations, and private firms that deliver critical scientific studies and essential public services.”

The lawmakers oppose the proposed rule and urge OMB to withdraw this rulemaking in full.

This sweeping, partisan, and ideologically driven rewrite of federal grants guidance would, if finalized, overhaul and politicize the entire federal funding regime in America. As outlined in the letter, this proposal would:

• Concentrate political control over federal spending, reducing objective peer review of research funding to a non-binding suggestion;
• Undermine constitutionally protected rights by requiring compliance with vague, sweeping prohibitions on projects that may include references to “unlawful DEI,” “gender ideology," and “religious discrimination;”
• Disrupt billions of dollars in existing awards and programs; and
• Increase the compliance burden on the organizations and governments that serve the public.

“This proposal would hand political appointees unprecedented power to decide which communities deserve access to federal funding that Congress has already approved. Federal grants should be awarded based on law, peer-reviewed science, and community need—not political fealty,” said Jillian Blanchard, Senior Vice President of Climate Change and Environmental Justice at Lawyers for Good Government. “If finalized, this rule would put critical investments in public health, disaster resilience, clean energy, and infrastructure at risk while significantly increasing administrative burdens to the entire federal funding regime. We stand with Congressman Carter in opposing this dangerous proposal and defending a grants system that serves the American people and provides critical funding where it’s needed most.”

“Instead of working to better the lives of the American people, protect public health, and ensure clean air and water for all, the Trump administration is pursuing yet another reckless, short-sighted, and ideologically motivated power-grab,” said Earthjustice Action Senior Legislative Representative Liz Ruben. “We thank Representatives Troy Carter, Nikki Budzinski, and the over 120 members of Congress who joined them on this letter for standing up for our communities and opposing this dangerous effort.”

“Representatives Carter and Budzinski are right to sound the alarm about this sweeping effort to politicize federal grants. OMB’s proposal would allow political appointees to override expert review, disrupt existing awards, and make it harder for communities to secure the funding they need to protect public health and serve the public. We are grateful to every member of Congress standing with them to defend a fair, evidence-based grant system,” said Michelle Roos, Executive Director of the Environmental Protection Network.

“Giving political appointees the ability to bury real science and funnel federal research money toward disinformation won't make the problems we face go away, but instead, leave us dangerously unprepared to face very real threats,” said Margie Alt, director of the Climate Action Campaign. “Trump's Polluters First Agenda relies on ignoring the fact that the same fossil fuels causing the climate crisis are also making Trump's industry allies billions in profits. We are grateful to the more than 120 Members for standing up for scientific integrity, and for our lives.”

Additional lawmakers signing onto the effort include Reps. Gabe Amo (D-RI), Becca Balint (D-VT), Nanette Barragán (D-CA), Wesley Bell (D-MO), Ami Bera (D-CA), Donald Beyer (D-VA) Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), Julia Brownley (D-CA), Shontel Brown (D-OH), Janelle Bynum (D-OR), Salud Carbajal (D-CA), André Carson (D-IN), Ed Case (D-HI), Sean Casten (D-IL), Kathy Castor (D-FL), Judy Chu (D-CA), Gilbert Cisneros (D-CA), Steve Cohen (D-TN), Herbert Conaway (D-NJ), Lou Correa (D-CA), Jim Costa (D-CA), Angie Craig (D-MN), Jasmine Crockett (D-TX), Sharice Davids (D-KS), Danny Davis (D-IL), Diana DeGette (D-CO), Rosa DeLauro (D-CT), Suzan DelBene (D-WA), Christopher Deluzio (D-PA), Mark DeSaulnier (D-CA), Maxine Dexter (D-OR), Debbie Dingell (D-MI), Lloyd Doggett (D-TX), Adriano Espaillat (D-NY), Dwight Evans (D-PA), Lizzie Fletcher (D-TX), Bill Foster (D-IL), Valerie Foushee (D-NC), Lois Frankel (D-FL), Laura Friedman (D-CA), Maxwell Frost (D-FL), Jesús “Chuy” García (D-IL), Sylvia Garcia (D-TX), Daniel Goldman (D-NY), Adelita Grijalva (D-AZ), Jahana Hayes (D-CT), Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA), Val Hoyle (D-OR), Jared Huffman (D-CA), Jonathan Jackson (D-IL), Sara Jacobs (D-CA), Pramila Jayapal (D-WA), Henry “Hank” Johnson (D-GA), Robin Kelly (D-IL), Timothy Kennedy (D-NY), Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL), Greg Landsman (D-OH), John Larson (D-CT), George Latimer (D-NY), Summer Lee (D-PA), Ted Lieu (D-CA), Zoe Lofgren (D-CA), Stephen Lynch (D-MA), Seth Magaziner (D-RI), John Mannion (D-NY), Doris Matsui (D-CA), Sarah McBride (D-DE), April McClain Delaney (D-MD), Jennifer McClellan (D-VA), Betty McCollum (D-MN), Morgan McGarvey (D-KY), LaMonica McIver (D-NJ), Analilia Mejia (D-NJ), Christian Menefee (D-TX), Robert Menendez (D-NJ), Grace Meng (D-NY), Kweisi Mfume (D-MD), Dave Min (D-CA), Joseph Morelle (D-NY), Jared Moskowitz (D-FL), Seth Moulton (D-MA), Kevin Mullin (D-CA), Joe Neguse (D-CO), Eleanor Norton (D-DC), Jimmy Panetta (D-CA), Scott Peters (D-CA), Brittany Pettersen (D-CO), Ayanna Pressley (D-MA), Mike Quigley (D-IL), Jamie Raskin (D-MD), Josh Riley (D-NY), Luz Rivas (D-CA), Deborah Ross (D-NC), Patrick Ryan (D-NY), Andrea Salinas (D-OR), Mary Gay Scanlon (D-PA), Jan Schakowsky (D-IL), Hillary Scholten (D-MI), Kim Schrier (D-WA), Terri Sewell (D-AL), Lateefah Simon (D-CA), Adam Smith (D-WA), Darren Soto (D-FL), Greg Stanton (D-AZ), Haley Stevens (D-MI), Marilyn Strickland (D-WA), Suhas Subramanyam (D-VA), Emilia Sykes (D-OH), Mark Takano (D-CA), Shri Thanedar (D-MI), Bennie Thompson (D-MS), Dina Titus (D-NV), Rashida Tlaib (D-MI), Jill Tokuda (D-HI), Paul Tonko (D-NY), Ritchie Torres (D-NY), Lori Trahan (D-MA), Juan Vargas (D-CA), Gabe Vasquez (D-NM), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL), Maxine Waters (D-CA), Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ), George Whitesides (D-CA), Nikema Williams (D-GA), and Frederica Wilson (D-FL).

This letter is endorsed by Lawyers for Good Government, Environmental Protection Network, Climate Action Campaign, Earthjustice, Natural Resources Defense Council, United Auto Workers (UAW), Oncology Advocates United for Climate and Health (OUCH) – International, Alliance of Nurses for Healthy Environments, Climate Psychiatry Alliance, Deep South Center for Environmental Justice, Committee to Protect Public Mental Health, Physicians for Social Responsibility/Maine, Physicians for Social Responsibility/Texas, Physicians for Social Responsibility/San Francisco, Physicians for Social Responsibility, and Medical Students for a Sustainable Future.

Read the full letter here.

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA), alongside Reps. Cleo Fields (D-LA), Mike Ezell (R-MS), and Rob Bresnahan (R-PA) introduced the NFIP Premium Transparency Act. This bill will require the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to provide comprehensive, transparent flood insurance information to property owners and the public through enhanced policy documents and a new online tool.

“Since FEMA’s Risk Rating 2.0 program went into effect, Louisiana families have opened their flood insurance bills with more questions than answers: why their premium jumped and what discounts they're missing,” said Rep. Carter. “Louisiana has more riding on this than almost any state in the country. This legislation gives homeowners the information they've always deserved: a clear breakdown of their rates, real savings from mitigation, and a roadmap to full-risk pricing. This isn't a partisan issue. It's about giving working families the tools to protect their homes, their budgets, and their futures.”

The NFIP Premium Transparency Act requires FEMA to overhaul how flood insurance information is shared with property owners, a change with outsized stakes for Louisiana, which holds more than 470,000 National Flood Insurance Program policies. Within 12 months, the bill mandates enhanced information on the declaration pages of each flood insurance policy issued under the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) to clearly show current premiums, available discounts, claim history, rating factors, mitigation savings, and the timeline to full-risk pricing, giving coastal homeowners facing rising premiums clarity on why and when increases are coming. Additionally, the bill requires FEMA to launch a public online tool that allows property owners to access detailed flood risk data, including premium calculations, replacement costs, and flood history, along with an interactive feature showing how mitigation efforts, such as elevation, could lower both risk and cost.

“Louisiana families pay more flood insurance premiums than almost anyone in the United States, and for too long they've been handed a bill with no explanation. They] deserve to know why their rates went up, when they'll go up again, and what they can do about it. This bill does exactly that,” said Rep. Fields.

“Families deserve to know exactly how their flood insurance premiums are determined and what steps they can take to lower their costs,” said Rep. Ezell. “The NFIP Premium Transparency Act gives homeowners greater access to the information they need to make informed decisions, invest in mitigation, and better protect their property. For coastal communities like those in South Mississippi, improving transparency within the National Flood Insurance Program is a common-sense step that will help strengthen resilience while making the program more accountable to the people it serves.”

“Too many families in Northeastern Pennsylvania struggle with the impact flooding can have on their homes, businesses, and livelihoods. Flood insurance continues to go up, making it harder for families to sell and first-time homeowners to buy,” said Rep. Bresnahan. “For many homeowners in our region, the NFIP is the only realistic option for protecting their property, but rising premiums are making that coverage increasingly difficult to afford. This legislation ensures that our families, small businesses, and non-profits are not priced out of the peace of mind that flood insurance brings.”

The NFIP Premium Transparency Act is endorsed by the Americans for Financial Reform, National Association of Counties (NACo), Coalition for Sustainable Flood Insurance, United Policyholders, American Policyholders Association, Greater New Orleans, Inc., Home Builders Association of Greater New Orleans (HBAGNO), Northshore Business Council, Fair Insurance Rates for Monroe (FIRM), Greater New Orleans Housing Alliance (GNOHA), and HousingNOLA.

“In Southeast Louisiana, flood insurance isn’t optional - it’s a reality that directly impacts housing affordability and community resilience. By requiring clear, detailed information on how premiums are calculated, the NFIP Premium Transparency Act empowers consumers and strengthens the market by bringing much-needed transparency to a complex system,” said Dan Mills, CEO of the Home Builders Association of Greater New Orleans.

“With climate change driving greater flood risk across the country, it's critical that homeowners, renters, and prospective buyers and residents understand a property's flood history, the long-term trajectory of the flood risk they face, and what they can do to protect their homes and lower their insurance costs. The NFIP Premium Transparency Act would give people the information they need to better protect themselves physically and financially from floods,” said Alex Martin, climate finance policy director at Americans for Financial Reform.

“As President of FIRM, I am writing to express our strong support for the NFIP Premium Transparency Act introduced by Congressman Fields. This legislation takes a meaningful step forward by requiring clear, detailed information on declaration pages and creating an interactive Flood Insurance Information Tool. These changes will help policyholders better understand their premiums, discounts, and mitigation options, which we believe will improve trust in the program,” said Mel E. Montagne, President, Fair Insurance Rates for Monroe (FIRM).

“It's no secret that in Louisiana we desperately need comprehensive reform of the National Flood Insurance Program. We know that won’t happen quickly, and in the interim, the NFIP Premium Transparency Act gives homeowners the opportunity to arm themselves with information about costs and risks, and what can be done to address both.  While we wait on reform, knowledge is power, and that gives families the opportunity to make the best choices possible. We are grateful that the Louisiana congressional delegation continues to take the lead on critical matters such as this legislation—helping Louisiana families take meaningful steps to #PutHousingFirst,” said Andreanecia M. Morris, President, Greater New Orleans Housing Alliance (GNOHA).

“The bill is a common-sense measure that brings visibility to property owners' risk factors.  At long last, it empowers NFIP policyholders to better understand how NFIP sets premiums, and how to mitigate risk and cost simultaneously.  With an NFIP deadline of September 30 nearing, and with a pressing need to reconsider the federal role in insurance through a congressional commission, this bill is an important step forward in bringing light to the insurance crisis,” said Michael Hecht, President & CEO of Greater New Orleans, Inc. (GNO, Inc.) and founder of the Coalition for Sustainable Flood Insurance (CSFI).

Background:

The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) is a federal program administered by FEMA that provides flood insurance to homeowners and businesses, aiming to reduce the financial impact of flooding. The program is vital for Louisiana, a state with extensive low-lying areas and frequent exposure to hurricanes and heavy rainfall. The NFIP helps protect residents from devastating financial losses due to flood damage, encourages responsible development in flood-prone areas, and supports rebuilding efforts after disasters—making it a critical safety net for Louisiana’s communities.

Since 2021, Risk Rating 2.0 has been FEMA's flood insurance pricing methodology, replacing the older system that largely based premiums on flood zone and elevation with a more granular model that factors in distance to water, elevation, construction type, and individual property flood risk. Many policyholders saw rates rise sharply without an intuitive explanation tied to flood zone maps they were used to, and FEMA's reluctance to release the full underlying methodology made it hard for homeowners and agents to understand or verify why their specific premium changed

In December, Rep. Carter authored the National Flood Insurance Program Automatic Extension Act of 2025. The bill ensures that the NFIP automatically continues its core operations even if Congress misses a scheduled reauthorization deadline.

Rep. Carter and Ezell also introduced H.R. 2822, the National Flood Insurance Program Authorization Extension Act in April to avoid a lapse in program authorization resulting from a government shutdown. This bill would have extended the program through December 31, 2026. They also introduced H.R. 5848, the NFIP Retroactive Renewal and Reauthorization Act in November, legislation to backdate reauthorization of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) to September 30, 2025, while extending the program’s authorization until December 31, 2026. This bill ensures that policyholders who plan to renew are not penalized for the lapse in NFIP reauthorization caused by the Republican government shutdown.

Rep. Carter serves as Co-Chair of the Bipartisan Congressional Flood Resilience Caucus and the Bipartisan Congressional Disaster Preparedness & Recovery Caucus. He continues to advocate for common-sense, bipartisan reforms to strengthen and sustain the NFIP for Louisiana and other flood-prone communities. 

Read the full bill text here.

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) and Congresswoman Dina Titus (D-NV) introduced the Establishing and Developing University Cannabis Agriculture Techniques and Excellence (EDUCATE) Act. This bill creates pathways for minority students to explore and study jobs in cultivation, research, business, and policy sectors of the legal marijuana market.

“As the legal cannabis market continues to grow, this bill helps guarantee that local economies, not just large corporations, benefit from new jobs, new businesses, and new research,” said Rep. Carter. “By strengthening programs at HBCUs and HSIs, we can ensure students from historically underserved communities can enter high‑growth fields in agriculture, research, and advanced manufacturing.”

The 1890 Land-Grant Institutions are historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) that offer high-quality agricultural research, education, and extension programs to prepare students from diverse backgrounds to participate meaningfully in the agriculture industry. Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSIs) are colleges and universities where at least 25% of the undergraduate student body identifies as Hispanic and play a key role in expanding educational access. The cannabis industry has grown at a significant rate, projecting to generate $100 billion in revenue by 2030. As more states continue to implement or expand marijuana legalization policies, job growth will continue, serving as a pathway to economic empowerment for communities that have often been left out.

“The legal, responsible use of cannabis has been a major economic driver in Nevada and across the country and deserves further research,” said Rep. Titus. “The EDUCATE Act would enable students to explore and study jobs in the cultivation, research, business, and policy sectors of the legal marijuana market by providing federal funding to institutions of higher education.”

“As the cannabis plant becomes an increasingly prominent part of America's agricultural landscape, it is vital that we develop robust research and educational systems to grow our knowledge base, improve public health, maintain leadership on the global stage, and train the next generation of farmers and experts. The EDUCATE Act significantly facilitates these goals while creating opportunities for the communities that have been disproportionately impacted by cannabis prohibition. NORML is grateful for the introduction of this legislation, and we urge members of Congress to support it and call for its consideration without delay,” said Morgan Fox, Political Director, National Organization for the Reform of Marijuana Laws (NORML).

“We are proud to endorse this legislation that will cultivate the next generation of cannabis industry leaders. Black and Latino communities have been most impacted by marijuana criminalization yet have been largely boxed out of the legal industry.  This bill will help change that, bringing us one step closer to an equitable marijuana industry,” said Maritza Perez Medina, Director of Federal Affairs, Drug Policy Alliance.

“HBCUs have played a critical role in developing and educating future leaders in our country, from Thurgood Marshall to Kamala Harris. This bill is an opportunity to bolster these historic institutions by providing the resources necessary to empower the next generation of students to study careers in the cultivation, research, business, and policy sectors of the legal cannabis market. For far too long, people of color bore the brunt of an overly punitive criminal justice system that relished the opportunity to throw jail time their way for cannabis. This bill represents an opportunity for those same communities to reap the benefits of the burgeoning billion-dollar cannabis industry, and we are proud to support it,” said Stephanie Shepard, Executive Director, Last Prisoner Project and former federal cannabis prisoner.

Background:

The EDUCATE Act will:

• Provide $5,000,000 in annual research and operational funding to HBCU 1890 Land-Grant Institutions and HSIs to assist in developing the infrastructure needed to support student engagement and learning in cannabis agriculture.
• Create a $100,000 scholarship annually for undergraduate and graduate students to pursue studies in cannabis agriculture.

Full text of the bill can be found here.

Congressman Carter is a member of the Congressional Cannabis Caucus and is a leader on cannabis policy. He is the author of the Marijuana Misdemeanor Expungement Act which would deliver justice for countless Americans whose lives have been disrupted and deprived because of a misdemeanor Marijuana offense. He also introduced the RESPECT Resolution that outlines steps and practices to create an equitable cannabis industry that addresses, reverses, and repairs the consequences of the failed “War on Drugs.” Finally, his bipartisan CLIMB Act will allow state-legal American cannabis companies, including small, minority, and veteran-owned businesses the ability to access critical lending and investment opportunities currently available to other domestic and regulated industries.

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) issued the following statement:

“This ruling is a win for Louisianians and for every American who just wants to breathe clean air. The court was clear: the EPA's arguments for walking away from this rule simply did not hold up. That matters. The 2024 standard was grounded in science and built through a public process, and it's projected to prevent thousands of premature deaths and tens of thousands of asthma attacks every single year. Louisianans deserve those protections as much as anyone.

“I understand the concerns raised by industry about compliance costs, and I will always fight for policies that keep Louisiana businesses competitive and our energy workforce strong. But protecting public health and supporting a responsible energy and manufacturing sector are not mutually exclusive goals. Cleaner air doesn't have to come at the expense of good jobs, and an EPA that simply refuses to enforce the law isn't doing right by the people it's supposed to serve.

“I'm glad the courts stepped in here. I'll continue pushing the EPA to implement this standard fully and fairly, and to work with us on a realistic path to compliance that protects both our families and our economy.”

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NEW ORLEANS, LA – Today, Congressmen Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) released the following statement:

“Today marks a major step forward for New Orleans and for the future of our medical corridor. For far too long, Charity Hospital has stood as a reminder of what was, and what still could be. I have long believed that this historic site deserved new life, new purpose, and a vision worthy of its legacy.

“Tulane University’s commitment to help lead this redevelopment is welcome news. This project has the potential to be catalytic and transformative, bringing together healthcare, research, education, housing, jobs, and economic growth in a way that can strengthen downtown New Orleans and benefit our entire region.

“Charity is more than a building. It is part of the soul of New Orleans. Generations of families were born there, cared for there, trained there, and served there. To see real momentum toward its redevelopment is both meaningful and long overdue.

“Hats off to Tulane University and to the public-private partnership that helped make this possible. Big projects take vision, patience, persistence, and cooperation. This is the kind of bold partnership New Orleans needs.

“There is still work ahead, but today we should recognize this important milestone and keep pushing forward. Redeveloping Charity Hospital is not just about restoring a historic landmark. It is about building opportunity, expanding innovation, and shaping a stronger future for New Orleans.”

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressmen Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA), Clay Higgins (R-LA), and Cleo Fields (D-LA) introduced the bipartisan Crawfish Reclassification for Agricultural Workforce (CRAW) Act. This bill amends the Immigration and Nationality Act to explicitly classify crawfish‑processing work—such as washing, sorting, grading, whole‑boiling, peeling, and transporting—as “agricultural labor or services.”  By recognizing these tasks as agricultural, the legislation makes crawfish‑processing employers eligible to use the H‑2A visa program, which is designed for temporary agricultural labor and is not subject to the annual caps that restrict the H‑2B program.

“Louisiana's crawfish industry is a cornerstone of our state's agricultural economy and our cultural identity, but for too long, outdated visa classifications have left our processors scrambling for the workforce they need,” said Rep. Carter. “I've heard directly from crawfish processors across Louisiana about the loss of income and crop simply because of bureaucratic definitions that somehow classifies peeling a crawfish tail as less agricultural than picking a tomato. The CRAW Act fixes this by calling crawfish processing what it is: agricultural work. This commonsense fix will give our processors access to a more reliable workforce, protect thousands of jobs, and help ensure Louisiana crawfish stays on dinner tables here at home and across the country.”

The Louisiana crawfish industry has become one of the state’s most economically significant agricultural sectors, with acreage and production increasing by approximately 200 percent over the past two decades and total economic value surpassing $640 million in 2025. However, the industry has struggled with severe labor shortages due to H‑2B visa caps, delays, and inconsistent visa releases. These labor issues have forced processing plants to scale down operations or send unprocessed crawfish overseas for peeling, resulting in potential estimated losses of over $100 million. Shifting these jobs into the uncapped H‑2A program would provide a more dependable workforce, strengthen Louisiana’s agricultural economy, and help prevent supply shortages and price spikes for consumers.

“My office has long endeavored to correct workforce issues facing the crawfish industry, and I believe the CRAW Act provides long-term stability,” said Rep. Higgins. “The legislation accounts for the unique nature of crawfish processing and rightly transitions the industry from the H2-B to H2-A visa program. I’m proud to sponsor this commonsense fix, and I’d like to thank Congressman Carter for his work on this issue.”

“I'm proud to support the CRAW Act, which finally recognizes crawfish processing as the agricultural work it has always been,” said Rep. Fields. “One simple change gives our processors access to the uncapped H-2A program and frees them from the H-2B caps and delays that have left plants short-staffed season after season. This is overdue relief for my constituents. Crawfish is a way of life in Louisiana and a major driver of our economy, yet labor shortages have shut down plants, sent our catch overseas to be peeled, and cost the industry millions. A dependable, legal workforce shouldn't be too much to ask, and I urge my colleagues to join me in standing up for Louisiana's workers and producers.”

“Farm grown commodities need to reach their markets to be of value to both the farmer and the consumer. Farms require a seasonal workforce to do that. Through the CRAW Act, Congressmen Carter, Higgins, and Fields are rightfully recognizing that crawfish processing should be eligible for H-2A, our agricultural guestworker program. Our delegation fought this miscategorized workforce regulatory battle with us in the spring and we are very appreciative of the Louisiana members for carrying this fix forward to legislation,” said Louisiana Farm Bureau President Richard Fontenot.

Full text of the bill can be found here.

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