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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter Sr. (D-LA), Co-Chair of the Congressional Men’s Health Caucus, introduced a bipartisan House Resolution in recognition of Men’s Health Week which occurs annually the week leading up to Father’s Day. This resolution is intended to raise awareness about men's health issues and promote preventive care.
“As a father, I think about the future my sons will inherit—and that includes making sure I’m here for it,” said Rep. Carter. “Too many men across this country are skipping checkups, ignoring symptoms, and needlessly losing years of their lives. National Men’s Health Week is not just about awareness—it's about action. It’s about telling every man, every father, every son: your health matters. Early detection saves lives. Preventive care isn't optional—it's essential. I’m proud to introduce this resolution because it’s time we change the conversation around men’s health and help more men live longer, healthier lives for the people who count on them most."
"As a physician, I understand the critical importance of men's health. I'm proud to Co-Chair the Congressional Men's Health Caucus and support this resolution recognizing National Men's Health Week,” said Rep. McCormick. “We must encourage men to prioritize their well-being, seek preventive care, and be proactive about their health. Early detection and regular checkups can save lives and ensure men are there for their families and communities. Let's use this week to raise awareness, break down stigmas, and promote a culture of health and longevity for all men."
“Knowing early warning signs and getting regular checkups are essential for men to live healthy lives,” said Rep. Lieu. “We need to make sure men have the education and access to care they need. I’m pleased to join my colleagues in the Men’s Health Caucus to support Men’s Health Week and raise awareness for men's health issues.”
“As a country, we need to improve the conversation around men’s health—and together, we’re working to make that happen,” said Rep. Menendez. “By commemorating National Men’s Health Week, we can take an important step to encourage men across the country to prioritize their wellbeing and seek preventative care for both physical and mental health. I’m grateful to my colleagues on the Men’s Health Caucus for leading this important effort.”
“Men’s Health Week is an opportunity to erase the stigma surrounding men’s health and encourage American men to be open and proactive about their health needs,” said Rep. Dunn. “Men’s health is a crucial area of healthcare that often goes overlooked by policymakers and the public and I am proud to shine some light on this important topic.”
The full text of the resolution is below, and you can read it here.
“Supporting the designation of the week of June 9 through June 15, 2025, as ‘‘National Men’s Health Week’’.
“Whereas, despite advances in medical technology and research, men continue to live an average of more than 5 years less than women, and American Indian/Alaska Native and African-American men have the lowest life expectancy;
“Whereas heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and unintentional injuries, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, lead to death in men at a higher percentage
than women;
“Whereas African American and Hispanic men have a higher prevalence of chronic diseases such as diabetes and obesity, compared to non-Hispanic White men and are less likely to seek care from a health professional;
“Whereas suicide is among the top 10 causes of death for men, and ranks as the second highest cause of death for men in 2 age groups, from ages 1 through 19 and ages 20 through 44;
“Whereas men on average experience a heart attack 7 years earlier than women;
“Whereas testicular cancer is one of the most common cancers in men between the ages of 15 and 34, and when detected early, has a 95-percent survival rate;
“Whereas, according to the American Cancer Society, the number of colorectal cancer cases among men is expected to be over 110,680 in 2025, and over 64,000 men are expected to die from it;
“Whereas, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 13 out of every 100 American men will develop prostate cancer during their lifetime;
“Whereas, according to the American Cancer Society, an estimated 313,780 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2025, and an estimated 35,770 of them will die from the disease;
“Whereas African-American men in the United States have the highest incidence of prostate cancer;
“Whereas African-American men are 1.76 times more likely to be diagnosed with, and 2.2 times more likely to die from, prostate cancer than White men;
“Whereas significant numbers of predominantly male-related health problems, such as prostate cancer, testicular cancer, infertility, and colon cancer, could be detected and treated in the early stages if men were more widely aware of the many early detection and screening tools and preventive measures currently available;
“Whereas educating both the public and health care providers about the importance of early detection of male health problems will result in reducing rates of mortality for these diseases;
“Whereas appropriate use of tests such as prostate-specific antigen (PSA) exams and blood pressure and cholesterol screens, in conjunction with clinical examination and self testing for problems such as testicular cancer, can result in the detection of many of these problems in their early stages and increases in the survival rates to nearly 100 percent;
“Whereas, according to the 2019 Cleveland Clinic MENtion It Survey, two-thirds (65 percent) of men tend to wait as long as possible to see their doctor if they have any health symptoms or an injury, and among men surveyed, men ages 35 to 54 are more likely to agree they tend to tough it out as long as possible before going to the doctor (72 percent), compared to men 55 and up (59 percent);
“Whereas women are twice as likely as men to visit the doctor for annual examinations and preventive services; Whereas men are less likely than women to visit their health center or physician for regular screening examinations of male-related problems for a variety of reasons, including fear of learning or confirming health status or condition, embarrassment, lack of health insurance, lack of information, and high out-of-pockets costs;
“Whereas ‘‘National Men’s Health Week’’ was established by Congress and first celebrated in 1994 and urges men and their families to engage in appropriate health behaviors, and the resulting increased awareness has improved health-related education and helped prevent illness;
“Whereas the Governors of all 50 States have issued proclamations annually declaring Men’s Health Week in their States, as have mayors of over 350 cities;
“Whereas, since 1994, ‘‘National Men’s Health Week’’ has been celebrated each June by hundreds of States, cities, localities, public health departments, health care entities, churches, and community organizations throughout the Nation that promote health awareness events focused on men and families;
“Whereas the ‘‘National Men’s Health Week’’ website has been established at www.menshealthmonth.org and features proclamations from Governors and mayors, and ‘‘National Men’s Health Week’’ events;
“Whereas men who are educated about the value that preventive health care can play in prolonging their lifespan and their role as productive family members will be more likely to participate in health screenings; Whereas men and their families are encouraged to increase their awareness of the importance of a healthy lifestyle, regular exercise, and medical checkups; and
“Whereas June 9 through June 15, 2025, is ‘‘National Men’s Health Week’’, which has the purpose of heightening the awareness of preventable health problems and encouraging early detection and treatment of disease among men and boys:
“Now, therefore, be it Resolved, That the House of Representatives—
“(1) supports the annual ‘‘National Men’s Health Week’’; and
“(2) requests that the President issue a proclamation calling upon the people of the United States and interested groups to observe ‘‘National Men’s Health Week’’ with appropriate ceremonies and activities.”
Background
Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (LA-02) is the Co-Chair of the Congressional Men’s Health Caucus. Congressman Carter is joined by Rep. Rich McCormick (R-GA), Co-Chair, and Vice Chairs Reps. Neal Dunn (R-FL), Ted Lieu (D-CA), and Rob Menendez (D-NJ). The bipartisan Caucus is dedicated to raising awareness about men’s health issues, encouraging men and boys to take an active role in their personal health, and promoting legislation that will improve the health and well-being of men, boys, and their families.
The Men’s Health Caucus focuses on topics including mental health care, prostate cancer screening, traumatic brain injury, and urological health issues. The Caucus will continue these efforts to educate Congress and the public about important topics in men’s health.
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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter Sr. (D-LA), a Member of the Subcommittee on Communications and Technology on the House Energy & Commerce Committee, introduced the Protecting Community Television Act. This legislation would undo rulemaking from the first Trump administration’s Federal Communications Commission (FCC) that effectively limited the resources available for public, educational, and government (PEG) channels.
“I’m proud to sponsor this bill and stand with communities that depend on local media to stay informed, connected, and heard,” said Rep. Carter. “PEG channels are lifelines for civic engagement and public education, especially in times of crisis, and they shouldn’t be collateral damage in a corporate accounting maneuver. This legislation restores the original promise Congress made: that local governments should have the tools they need to meet community needs without being forced to choose between vital services and local voices.”
Under the Communications Act, cable companies negotiate franchise agreements with local governments to provide cable services in a community. The Act caps franchise fees that a cable company pays to the local government at 5% of revenue. This revenue helps fund PEG stations, as well as other community services such as public libraries and emergency responders. In addition, cable companies historically paid up to the 5% cap and provided additional, in-kind support to the community, such as free cable service to schools or access to building studios. In 2019, the FCC issued a new rule that counted those in-kind contributions towards the 5% cap, meaning cable companies could reduce their cash payments by claiming the value of those services. With fewer cash resources, local governments were forced to choose between investing in PEG programming or supporting other public services. The result has been less funding for PEG stations.
“Millions of Americans rely on community television to keep up with the news that matters most to them, stay plugged into enriching, educational programming, and hold their local governments to account. But the Trump administration has forced communities across the country to pull the plug on public programming,” said Senator Markey. “At a time when news and media have become more consolidated than ever before, I am proud to partner with Representative Carter to reintroduce the Protecting Community Television Act to uphold local access to public, education, and government channels for every household in our country.”
“The Alliance for Community Media welcomes the re-introduction of the Protecting Community Television Act and want to thank Senator Markey and Representative Carter for their support for community access television. Passage of the Act will reduce fees that drain away monetary support for local community media channels across the country. At a time when we have fewer and fewer local journalists and reliable local information sources, cities and towns need community access television more than ever, and this bill will help sustain our operations,” said Mike Wassenaar, President & CEO, Alliance for Community Media.
“Counties rely on public communications channels to disseminate local news and updates to residents in a timely manner,” said Matthew Chase, Executive Director of the National Association of Counties. “By preserving monetary support for public, educational and government channels through franchise fees, counties would ensure that essential local content remains accessible to residents.”
“The Protecting Community Television Act (PCTA) is elegant legislation that seeks to protect benefits consistent with the Cable Act and cable franchising principles since 1984. In 2019, the Federal Communications Commission issued an order that undermines this ability by redefining the term “franchise fees” as used in the Cable Act and substituting its definition for that written by Congress in 1984. The Protecting Community Television Actremedies that altered meaning by protecting local public, educational and community access television so folks in communities across the country can continue to access relevant and timely local news that they rely on. Thanks to Senators Ed Markey (D-MA) and Congressman Troy Carter (D-LA) for continuing to advocate for the PCTA, which reaffirms Congress’ original intent to protect the long-standing ability of local governments to manage public property and provide for local media through public, educational and governmental access channels (PEG Access) in cable franchise agreements,” said Mike Lynch, Legislative Director for National Association of Telecommunications Officers and Advisors.
Background:
The Protecting Community Television Act is led by Senator Edward J. Markey (D-MA), a member of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, in the Senate and is endorsed by Alliance for Community Media, National Association of Counties, National Association of Telecommunications Officers and Advisors, National League of Cities, MassAccess, and Maine Community Media Association.
Read the full text of the bill here.
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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) and Congressman Mike Ezell (R-MS) introduced the bipartisan Capacity Building for Business Districts Pilot Program Act. This legislation will authorize a new competitive grant program through the Economic Development Administration (EDA) for business district organizations, such as Main Street programs and local economic development entities, that provide tailored, on-the-ground assistance to small businesses in both urban and rural communities.
These grants will be used for community-based initiatives that help small businesses identify resources and create jobs. National nonprofits that apply for grants through the program must work with business district organizations, locally based nonprofit or public community, and economic development partners. Local subrecipients will receive a combination of resources and technical assistance, such as strategic planning, market analysis, grant writing, and business development services, to enhance their work.
“Small businesses are the backbone of our economy. This bipartisan legislation will help grow capacity in our business districts and create more equitable economic opportunities in Louisiana,” said Rep. Carter. “It would increase vital resources for many organizations in my district that conduct critical, on-the-ground work to uplift small, local businesses. I’m proud to co-lead this effort again this Congress with Rep. Ezell.”
Small businesses are the backbone of our nation’s economy. A robust economic development framework requires investing in the success of entrepreneurs and the local business districts in which they operate.
“The Capacity Building for Business Districts Pilot Program is a smart investment in the people and organizations that power local economies,” said Rep. Ezell. “By strengthening the operational and technical abilities of business district organizations, we’re laying the foundation for job creation, local wealth building, and an improved quality of life in underserved areas of South Mississippi. Through targeted technical assistance and better access to the U.S. Economic Development Administration’s RNTA grant program, we’re making sure small communities have the tools they need to build stronger, more competitive business districts and achieve lasting economic growth.”
“We applaud the introduction of the Capacity Building for Business Districts Pilot Program and are grateful for Rep. Carter's co-sponsorship of this important legislation and his continued support to Main Street districts and organizations across New Orleans and Louisiana,” said Dasjon S. Jordan, Executive Director, Broad Community Connections (New Orleans).
“Picayune Main Street’s mission is to preserve the historic character and integrity of our community’s downtown commercial and residential district, as well as to enhance the culture and quality of life through active community involvement. While we have seen successes, the additional support enabled through the Capacity Building for Business Districts Pilot Program would equip our organization to take this mission to new heights, facilitating small business growth, job creation, and enhanced quality of place for our community,” said Reba Beebe, Director, Picayune Main Street, Inc.
"Sankofa Community Development Corporation is excited about the Capacity Building for Business Districts Pilot Program to offer opportunities to strengthen economic development initiatives. We initiated the Lower Ninth Ward Main Street project in alliance with a network of organizations, community stakeholders, and local businesses. We look forward to seeing its positive impact on the growth of small businesses and revitalization of our historic commercial corridor,” said Rashida Ferdinand, Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Sankofa Community Development Corporation.
“By strengthening existing place-making efforts and serving as a catalyst for economic growth and development by creating a sense of place and pride for the community, the Downtown Hattiesburg Association is improving the quality of life in Hattiesburg. Added resources for capacity and technical assistance to expand our work will increase our impact. We are grateful for Rep. Ezell's support to make that vision a reality,” said Marlo Dorsey, Board Member, Mississippi Main Street Association and Hattiesburg Downtown Association.
"The Mississippi Main Street Association is thankful for Representative Ezell's leadership of this legislation. As Mississippi’s leading organization for preservation-based community and economic development, we are excited about the potential of this funding to strengthen our network of organizations committed to supporting our downtowns and small businesses,” said Jim Miller, Executive Director, Mississippi Main Street Association.
“As an organization dedicated to promoting, enhancing, and supporting our community’s downtown district, Main Street Pascagoula is incredibly thankful for Representative Mike Ezell’s support of the Capacity Building for Business Districts Pilot Program. We are confident that this Program will prove tremendously impactful for our community and other districts engaged in revitalization efforts, and we look forward to what the future holds,” said Susannah Northrop, Director, Main Street Pascagoula.
"We applaud Representatives Ezell and Carter for introducing the Capacity Building for Business Districts Pilot Program. This program will provide critical resources to locally based, non-profit organizations that support small business ownership and economic revitalization in urban neighborhoods and rural communities across the country,” said Matthew Josephs, Senior Vice President for Policy, Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC).
"We believe Main Streets are the backbone of the small business economy. Main Street America is pleased to support the Capacity Building for Business Districts Pilot Program. We thank Representatives Ezell and Carter for recognizing the critical role that business district organizations, such as Main Street programs, play in creating thriving local economies,” said Erin Barnes, President and CEO, Main Street America.
"The Capacity Building for Business Districts Pilot Program represents a powerful opportunity to support local leaders in rural America who are working hard to build vibrant local economies. By enabling the U.S. Economic Development Administration to collaborate with trusted national nonprofits to direct federal resources, we would be taking an important step to drive sustainable economic growth, and revitalize places, like rural communities, that are often overlooked and underfunded,” said Matt Dunne, Founder and Executive Director, Center on Rural Innovation.
“This legislation represents overdue investment in the community development organizations that help so many business districts adapt and thrive. By giving them access to the flexible capital and technical support they need, it strengthens these organizations' ability to serve local entrepreneurs, revitalize neighborhood corridors, and meet the business needs of the communities they know best,” said Frank Woodruff, Executive Director of Community Opportunity Alliance (formerly NACEDA).
“At a time when small businesses are facing tremendous uncertainty, we're pleased to support bipartisan legislation that would create a grant program within the Economic Development Administration to boost business districts in rural and other under-resourced areas. Given that many small businesses throughout America are found clustered together on main streets, they often thrive or falter as a collective. Support programs that recognize this specific need and help address it would go a long way toward giving more small businesses an opportunity to grow and thrive,” said John Arensmeyer, Founder and CEO, Small Business Majority.
Background
Currently, grants under EDA are not used for capacity-building assistance and pass-through funds to local entities. The Capacity Building for Business Districts Pilot Program Act offers an opportunity to expand inclusive access to EDA resources by leveraging the expertise of national nonprofit partners with deep connections to small businesses to provide on-the-ground economic assistance to our nation’s downtowns. This will benefit small businesses and underserved communities by providing them with the expertise necessary to apply for federal grants. These grants will enable communities to fund projects that boost local economies, foster innovation, and strengthen their overall business infrastructure.
Small businesses are often found clustered in our business districts: neighborhood commercial corridors, Main Streets, downtowns, and other dense concentrations of small business development. Small businesses located in business districts are typically those under 20 employees, that are owned locally and hire locally, creating opportunities to build local wealth and sustain a community from the ground up. Research from the Association for Enterprise Opportunity indicates that unemployment would be eliminated if one-third of “microbusinesses” hired just one additional employee. Expanding resources for business district organizations can stimulate increased economic growth for these small businesses and for the community.
Organizational support for this bill includes: Community Opportunity Alliance (formerly NACEDA), Main Street America, Local Initiatives Support Corporation, National Association of Affordable Housing Lenders, National Association of Latino Community Asset Builders, Small Business Majority, Small Business Anti-Displacement Network. Center on Rural Innovation, Small Business Roundtable, Broad Community Connections, Mississippi Main Street Association and Hattiesburg Downtown Association, Sankofa Community Development Corporation, Main Street Pascagoula, Picayune Main Street, Inc., Mississippi Main Street Association, and Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC).
Read the full bill here.
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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) issued the following statement:
“From the battlefields of Korea to the halls of Congress, Charlie never stopped fighting — for justice, for fairness, for the people of Harlem, and for the heart of this nation. He was a giant, a trailblazer, a lion whose voice roared for the voiceless.
“We have lost a legend, but his spirit lives on in every fight for equity and every young leader he inspired.
“Rest well, Congressman. You changed the world — and we will carry your torch forward.
“My deepest condolences to the Rangel family and all who loved him.”
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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) issued the following statement:
“I unequivocally condemn all acts of violence—no matter the target, no matter the justification. The recent deadly shooting at the Jewish Museum was a heinous act of terror, and my heart breaks for the lives lost and the communities in mourning.
“Let me be clear: every life is precious. Every voice has value. No belief system, political stance, or religious identity should ever make someone a target.
“Violence—whether in the name of religion, politics, or protest—is never the answer. We must work together to build a world where our differences are not feared, but respected. Where our disagreements lead to dialogue, not destruction.
“Hate has no place in our society. Not now. Not ever.”
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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) issued the following statement after voting no on the Republican Budget Bill:
“Tonight, Republicans may have won a battle—but the war for the soul of this nation is far from over.
“Yes, we were outvoted—by just one vote. One vote that will never be a mandate to tear healthcare from the hands of children, seniors, veterans, and working families.
“For over 30 hours, we stood our ground. We fought—on the floor, in committee, and through the night—because the stakes are too high to sit this one out.
“This fight is not about politics. It’s about people.
“It’s about veterans who served with honor.
It’s about mothers caring for sick children.
“It’s about workers who can’t afford to get sick, and people with disabilities who deserve dignity and care.
“To every American watching—know this: we will not back down.
“We will continue to fight for what is right, what is just, and what is humane.
“They may have won this round—but we are not finished.”
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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) released the following statement:
“The Justice Department’s decision to charge Congresswoman LaMonica McIver for performing her constitutional duty is deeply disturbing and wholly unacceptable.
“Members of Congress have clear legal authority to inspect federal detention facilities without prior notice. This isn’t a gray area—it’s established law and a vital check on executive power.
“Charging a sitting Member of Congress for lawful oversight sets a dangerous precedent. It’s not about safety or justice—it’s political retaliation masquerading as law enforcement.
“We cannot allow the Department of Justice to be used as a tool of intimidation. I stand with Congresswoman McIver and every Member committed to holding government accountable. This is a test of our democracy—and we must not fail it.”
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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Tonight, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) will continue to be in a 36-hour-long Energy and Commerce Committee business meeting debating the Republican partisan budget reconciliation bill. Under this plan, Republicans will impose $715 billion in Medicaid cuts.
Congressman Carter invited Katie, Coye, Connor, Cooper Corkern from Louisiana to join him as an example of a local family who will be devastated by these Medicaid cuts. Connor John Corkern was born 18 years ago with a congenital brain malformation. His parents were shocked at the news of his diagnosis as his mother Katie’s pregnancy was uneventful. At just six weeks old, Connor’s parents were told that his brain malformation was so significant that he would need one on one care for all aspects of his life. He was blind, developmentally delayed, had poor muscle tone, was fed through a tube, had numerous types of seizures every day, had an underdeveloped pituitary gland, needed hormone replacement medications, had an immune deficiency disorder, and was nonverbal. Coye, a Louisiana law enforcement officer, and Katie, a Special Education Teacher, spent much of their time with Connor at Children’s Hospital in New Orleans as their son’s seizures and illnesses turned into life-threatening events.
After nearly a decade of being on a waiting list for a home and community-based disability waiver, Connor was given an emergency New Opportunities Waiver (NOW) in 2015. The NOW waiver afforded them Medicaid despite their income, and with that came help in caring for Connor at his own home with his parents and two brothers. Connor’s skilled nurse has been with him for 10 years now. She cares for Connor while his parents work. Connor has also had wonderful direct support professionals who assist him in the evenings while his parents bring his brothers to and from extracurricular activities and events.
When Connor was first diagnosed, his physicians warned his parents that his life was extremely fragile and there was a high chance he would not survive childhood. On May 7, 2025, Connor graduated from high school with his peers.
“We’re here because the Republican Majority is attempting to do exactly what they promised: rip people’s health care away from them,” said Rep. Carter. “Under this plan, Republicans will impose drastic Medicaid cuts–which will result in millions of Americans losing their health care, destroy our hospitals and close the nursing homes our parents and grandparents rely upon while blowing-up states’ budgets, including Louisiana’s. These cuts will put the elderly, the disabled, and our children at risk – all so they can give trillions of dollars in tax breaks to billionaires and large corporations. Simply put- this is cruel, inhumane and wrong.
“Connor’s story is an example of why Medicaid is so important for countless families across the United States. Republicans need to know that these cuts are not just numbers on paper, these are decisions with real life consequences that will hurt our people. Medicaid plays a crucial role in providing life-saving care to millions of Americans and Louisianians, and it’s essential that we continue to support and strengthen this program – not make it harder for people to access care. Let’s make it easier for children, like Connor, and their families to access these critical services made possible through Medicaid, not harder. Connor’s story could be any family’s story. The story of our family should not be written in a genetic lottery. Every family is precious.”
View photos and video from today’s meeting here.
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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) led 33 Members of Congress in sending a letter to U.S. Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. opposing staff and budget cuts. The Members also expressed strong concerns with HHS’ upcoming re-organization plans, which will eliminate the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).
“As you know, the 9-8-8 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline was created to fill the growing need for mental health, suicide, and substance use emotional support. Since its inception in July 2022, the 9-8-8 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline has received over 13 million calls, texts, and chats from people seeking support across the country – including 1.4 million from the Veteran’s Crisis Line (VCL). Any further staffing and budget cuts at SAMHSA could affect or disrupt this vital service, potentially leading to an increase in hospitalizations, mental health issues and crises that will go unaddressed,” the Members wrote.
Congressman Carter is the sponsor of the Mental Health Workforce Act, legislation that incentivizes students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities to pursue careers as mental health care practitioners by offering student loan forgiveness in exchange for a commitment to serving communities of color as mental health practitioners for five years after graduation. He is also Chair of the Men’s Health Caucus, a bipartisan group dedicated to raising awareness about men’s health issues, encouraging men and boys to take an active role in their personal health, and promoting legislation that will improve the health and well-being of men, boys, and their families
Background
The letter was signed by 33 Members of Congress, including Reps. Jennifer L. McClellan (D-VA), William R. Keating (D-MA), Greg Landsman (D-OH), Betty McCollum (D-MN), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), Henry C. “Hank” Johnson, Jr. (D-GA), Marc A. Veasey (D-TX), Adriano Espaillat (D-NY), Debbie Dingell (D-MI), Paul Tonko (D-NY), Doris Matsui (D-CA), Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ), Bradley Scott Schneider (D-IL), Seth Moulton (D-MA), Shri Thanedar (D-MI), Pramila Jayapal (D-WA), Stephen F. Lynch (D-MA), Nanette Diaz Barragán (D-CA), Summer L. Lee (D-PA), Dwight Evans (D-PA), Kevin Mullin (D-CA), Marilyn Strickland (D-WA), André Carson (D-IN), Jimmy Panetta (D-CA), Jahana Hayes (D-CT), Mike Thompson (D-CA), Robin L. Kelly (D-IL), Marcy Kaptur (D-OH), Jan Schakowsky (D-IL), Judy Chu (D-CA), Kathy Castor (D-FL), Darren Soto (D-FL), and Robert J. Menendez (D-NJ).
Read Congressman Carter’s full letter here.
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NEW ORLEANS, LA – Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) released the following statement on newly selected Pope Leo XIV:
“As a Black man, a proud son of New Orleans, and a U.S. Congressman honored to represent Louisiana’s 2nd Congressional District — which includes the very 7th Ward neighborhood where our newly selected Pope’s family once lived — I am overwhelmed with joy and pride at this historic moment.
“For many years, I have had the privilege of serving and representing this vibrant, resilient community — a place rich with Creole heritage, deep faith, and a legacy of perseverance. As someone who grew up in the Catholic faith and graduated from Xavier University of Louisiana, the only historically Black Catholic university in the world, I know firsthand the profound intersection of faith, identity, and culture that shapes our people.
“The news that the first American Pope has roots here in New Orleans, with ancestral ties to our Creole and Haitian families, is nothing short of extraordinary. It reminds the world that greatness rises from every corner — including communities that history has too often overlooked or underestimated.
“This moment is a testament not just to personal achievement, but to the enduring strength and global reach of New Orleans’ diverse faith community. As we celebrate, I pray that the Holy Father leads with justice, compassion, and a commitment to uplifting the marginalized, reflecting the spirit of the people and places that shaped him.
“We rejoice as one — and we send our love, our prayers, and our pride from the 7th Ward to the Vatican.”
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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) slammed the Musk-Trump Administration for terminating two grants awarded to the Orleans Parish District Attorney's Office (OPDA) by the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) which support local justice efforts. The unexpected loss of these critical federal investments threatens both long-term historical justice efforts and immediate victim safety in domestic violence cases in New Orleans.
Funding for the Emmett Till Cold Case Investigations and Prosecution Program and the Field Initiated: Encouraging Innovation - Upstream Solution to Domestic Violence: Comprehensive Pretrial Intervention in New Orleans was eliminated.
“I am deeply upset by the termination of these grant programs,” said Rep. Carter. “These awards represented investments not just in prosecution, but in healing. For families still grieving the loss of loved ones in racially motivated killings, and for domestic violence victims looking for alternatives to punitive systems, these programs were lifelines. Their loss is a setback to both justice and community safety. I call on the Musk-Trump Administration to reinstate these crucial funds immediately.”
In fall 2024, OPDA was awarded a $1 million grant under the Emmett Till Cold Case Investigations and Prosecution Program, intended to fund investigations into racially motivated homicides occurring before 1980. While OPDA had already identified more than 175 such cold cases for investigation, the premature termination of the grant halts plans to hire a full-time investigator, provide $200,000 in mental health services to victim families, and fund forensic collaboration with the New Orleans Police Department. These cuts threaten OPDA’s ability to deliver long-overdue justice to families impacted by civil rights-era violence and to ensure their trauma is acknowledged with care and dignity.
Additionally, OPDA has been informed of the termination of funding under the FY23 Field Initiated: Encouraging Innovation grant, in which OPDA was a sub-recipient. Led by local nonprofit Beyond Harm in partnership with Tulane University’s Violence Prevention Institute, the $1 million project aimed to interrupt cycles of domestic violence by diverting low-level cases into intensive pretrial services focused on healing and accountability. To date, 64 individuals have participated in the program and 55 victims have engaged with supportive services. With $650,000 remaining and strong early indicators of success, the project was poised to be a national model.
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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter Sr. (D-LA), Chair of the Congressional Men’s Health Caucus, announced the re-launch of the Congressional Men’s Health Caucus in the 119thCongress, alongside Reps. Rich McCormick (R-GA), Neal Dunn (R-FL), Ted Lieu (D-CA), and Rob Menendez (D-NJ). The Caucus is dedicated to raising awareness about men’s health issues, encouraging men and boys to take an active role in their personal health, and promoting legislation that will improve the health and well-being of men, boys, and their families.
“I am pleased to once again lead the Congressional Men’s Health Caucus this Congress,” said Rep. Carter. “As we embark on a new session, I’m reminded of the late Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr., who was the Chairman of this Caucus and a dedicated advocate for men’s health issues. In his memory, we remain committed to ensuring that men have access to vital health information and comprehensive quality care. As Chair, I look forward to continuing this important work and encouraging men to take a proactive approach to their health.”
"Men's health is a critical issue that we must address head-on. As a physician and a Marine veteran, I understand the importance of prioritizing mental well-being and adopting a healthy lifestyle. Through the Men's Health Caucus, we will work tirelessly to raise awareness, promote preventive care, and support legislation that improves the lives of men, boys, and their families across our nation,” said Rep. McCormick.
“I am honored to rejoin the bipartisan House Men’s Health Caucus and reaffirm my commitment to advancing policies that improve health outcomes for men and their families,” said Rep. Lieu. “The disparities in men’s health—whether in life expectancy, disease detection, or mental health—are stark and demand serious attention. I am pleased to join colleagues on both sides of the aisle in promoting greater awareness, encouraging preventative care, and supporting initiatives that empower men to prioritize their health. Men’s health is not just a men’s issue—it’s a family issue, a workforce issue, and a national priority. Together, we can help ensure more men live longer, healthier lives.”
“The Men’s Health Caucus is committed to encouraging men to take proactive steps to protect their health — through prevention, early detection, and seeking support when it’s needed,” said Rep. Menendez.“This caucus will be at the forefront of addressing the health challenges that Americans are facing and I know we can do this important work - together.”
“The Men’s Health Caucus accomplished a great deal in the 118th Congress, and I look forward to continuing that success in the coming years,” said Rep. Dunn. “We are committed to bringing men’s health to the forefront of public health discussions in Washington, and I’m excited to take on a leadership role in the caucus during the 119th Congress.”
The Men’s Health Caucus will focus on topics including mental health care, prostate cancer screening, traumatic brain injury, and urological health issues. The Caucus plans to continue these efforts to educate Congress and the public about important topics in men’s health.
Watch the press conference here.
View photos of the press conference here.
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