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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter Sr. (D-LA), Congresswoman Dina Titus (D-NV), Congressman Rudy Yakym (R-IN), and Congressman Rob Bresnahan, Jr. (R-PA) introduced the bipartisan Preventing Roadside and Work Zone Deaths Act. This legislation would require the Department of Transportation (DOT) to collect, analyze, compile, and publish accurate, detailed data on disabled roadside vehicle crashes and work zone crashes to develop a strategic plan to stop these incidents.

Three Southern University students and band members were killed on the evening of December 6, 2022, in rural Natchitoches Parish, Louisiana, while they were changing a tire on the side of Interstate 49. The driver of an 18-wheeler drifted off the road and struck the left side of the students’ disabled vehicle, killing them all instantly. Being stuck along America’s roadways is incredibly dangerous. Crashes involving disabled or vulnerable passenger vehicles stopped on or near active roadways are a deadly, growing traffic safety problem.

“I’m proud to introduce this bill which addresses an urgent and preventable traffic safety crisis,” said Rep. Carter. “The tragic loss of three Southern University students is a reminder of the lethal dangers faced by anyone stranded along America’s roadways. No one should lose their life while performing something as routine as changing a tire or refueling their car. This legislation protects everyday road users, professionals, and first responders who risk their lives to keep our roads safe. It’s past time for comprehensive action to prevent these avoidable roadside deaths.”

In response to this incident, Congressman Carter began to work with traffic safety professionals and advocates, including Louisiana native and former National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Administrator Dr. Ricardo Martinez, to write a bill to make our roadways safer for passengers of disabled vehicles.

Studies show that accidents involving disabled roadside vehicles are often underreported and likely kill or injure over 15,000 people in America annually. Additionally, almost 100,000 work zone crashes occur annually, leading to over 35,000 injuries and almost 1,000 deaths – including almost 150 construction worker fatalities. Even though work zones may be set up properly according to state requirements, these crashes and related fatalities continue to increase.

“Nobody should have to fear for their lives while tending to an emergency on the side of the road,” said Rep. Titus. “We can and must do better. I am proud to co-lead this legislation to prevent roadside deaths and injuries.”

“Injuries and deaths from crashes involving disabled roadside vehicles and work zones are a tragic and largely preventable problem in our country,” said Rep. Yakym. “I’m proud to partner with Reps. Carter, Bresnahan, and Titus on this commonsense, bipartisan legislation that uses data, collaboration, and existing resources to address a real issue impacting tens of thousands of lives each year. The Preventing Roadside and Work Zone Deaths Act moves us closer to a shared goal: making safety the standard, not the exception on America’s roads.”

“Work zone and roadside crashes happen far too often, and each incident represents a devastating loss that impacts families, communities, and the essential workers who keep our infrastructure moving,” said Rep. Bresnahan. “The Preventing Roadside and Work Zone Deaths Act is a critical step forward in protecting those who work and travel along our nation’s roads. By improving data collection, encouraging strategic planning, and leveraging existing federal resources, this legislation will help save lives and make our work zones and roadways safer for everyone.”

“Implementing a Safe System Approach to eliminate serious traffic injuries and fatalities requires policy solutions inclusive of all road users, especially vulnerable road users,” said Mark Chung, Executive Vice President of Safety Leadership and Advocacy for the National Safety Council. “Vulnerable road user deaths remain troubling even as overall motor vehicles fatalities decline. The National Safety Council believes the Preventing Roadside and Work Zone Deaths Act takes a vital step forward in addressing the crisis on our roads by bringing government stakeholders together to align data and better implement the National Roadway Safety Strategy.”

“Urban League of Louisiana applauds the steadfast efforts of Congressman Carter to author bills that elevate the lived experiences of disinvested communities and which champion tangible outcomes for Louisianans and Americans,” said Judy Reese Morse, Urban League of Louisiana President & CEO. “The Preventing Roadside and Work Zone Death Act is the most recent example of Congressman Carter seeking to use data as a critical tool in crafting a strategic plan to make Americans safer while commuting. This bill is smart, timely, and addresses a less-known threat to Americans making less than the US median income and Black motorist.”

“A motorist repairing a flat tire, a first responder aiding people after a crash, a police officer stopping an impaired driver, and a construction worker repairing a roadway all have one thing in common. They are vulnerable to being struck and killed or injured by passing motor vehicles, a common occurrence that affects 72,000 people every year. We are proud to support the Preventing Roadside Deaths Act, sponsored by Reps. Troy Carter, Sr. (D-LA), Dina Titus (D-NV), Rudy Yakym (R-IN), and Rob Bresnahan (R-PA), that directs the Department of Transportation (DOT) to create a national strategy to address this deadly problem because all road users should be protected on all parts of our roadways,” said Cathy Chase, President, Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety.

“The sharp increase in traffic fatalities in the last few years is a public health threat that must be met head-on. AAA believes the Preventing Roadside and Work Zone Deaths Act is a good first step in that direction and looks forward to working with Congressmembers Carter, Yakym, Titus, and Bresnahan and safety stakeholders to improve safety for anyone stranded or working at the roadside,” said AAA President and CEO Gene Boehm.

“I know all too well the tragedies that can strike families with a disabled roadside vehicle, and I appreciate Congressman Carter’s ‘Preventing Roadside and Work Zone Deaths Act,” said MADD National Ambassador Michelle Ramsey. “My 4-year-old son Samuel and 6-year-old son Khaiden were killed by a drunk driver who plowed through safety triangles, struck a car that then struck me, then ran off the road and slammed into my sons, my daughter Kaylee and a teenage neighbor who had come outside to help us. Two beautiful lives were stolen on the side of the road that night and three others will never be the same.”

“Every few minutes, healthy Americans are killed or injured in these incidents, and the numbers are rising. People in and around disabled vehicles are sitting ducks, especially on high-speed roads. It’s time to address this deadly issue and implement effective solutions,” said Dr. Ricardo Martinez, former NHTSA Administrator and emergency physician.

“On behalf of the men and women of the American Association of State Troopers, we strongly support our lawmakers and the legislation they propose that attempts to make traveling our nations roadways safer for all!” said Major John J. Bagnardi, Ret. Executive Director American Association of State Troopers.

“Every day, towing and recovery professionals put their lives on the line, working just feet from fast-moving traffic,” said Towing and Recovery Association of America (TRAA) President George Kuntz. “The legislation introduced by Congressman Carter marks a critical advancement in acknowledging and addressing the very real dangers our industry faces. By strengthening data collection, expanding public awareness of Move Over laws, and reinforcing federal safety initiatives, this bill demonstrates a strong commitment to protecting traffic incident responders. TRAA proudly supports this legislation and thanks Congressman Carter for his leadership and continued commitment to the safety of those who keep our roads moving.”

"Asphalt contractors and the roadway safety industry applaud the introduction of the Preventing Roadside and Work Zone Deaths Act. We applaud that this bill is being introduced to improve worker safety. It is especially timely as this is National Work Zone Awareness Week, an annual effort to raise awareness about the dangers workers face building and maintaining our nation's roads and bridges. Roadway workers deliver critical surface transportation infrastructure to ensure all users of all types – pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists – can travel safely around the country. Yet over the last five years, we’ve lost 578 roadway workers in work zone crashes. We greatly appreciate Representatives Carter, Bresnahan, Titus, and Yakym for co-sponsoring this bipartisan bill and for their leadership on the upcoming surface transportation reauthorization package. With these initiatives, together we can work toward bringing the number of lives lost to zero,” said the National Asphalt Pavement Association and American Traffic Safety Services Association in a joint statement.

"When our industries, government and labor unite with bipartisan support, we pave the way for safer work zones, ensuring the ultimate goal of every worker returning home safely each day,” said Travis M. Parsons, Director of Occupational Safety & Health, Laborers' Health & Safety Fund of North America.

This bill is endorsed by Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), American Automobile Association (AAA), National Safety Council, Urban League of Louisiana, Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety, American Association of State Troopers, Major County Sheriffs of America, Louisiana Sheriff’s Association, National Asphalt Pavement Association, Towing and Recovery Association of America, American Traffic Safety Services Association (ATSSA), American Society of Civil Engineers, National Ready Mix Concrete Association, National Sand Stone and Gravel Association, American Concrete Paving Association, National Utility Contractors Association, Associated General Contractors, Associated Equipment Distributers, Association of Equipment Manufacturers, Laborers' International Union of North America, and Laborers' Health & Safety Fund of North America.

Background

According to peer-reviewed research:

• Every 7 minutes, a disabled vehicle is struck by an oncoming driver
• Approximately 72,000 people are affected annually, with over 15,000 people injured or killed
• Nearly 80% of victims of these accidents are from households that are under the U.S. median income, and Black motorists are twice as likely to die in a disabled vehicle crash than the rest of the U.S. population.
• The frequency of “unintended” pedestrians and “Good Samaritans” killed while attending to disabled vehicles has increased by 27% since 2014.

This data is incomplete and most likely under-reported due to inconsistent data capture at the local and state level. The problem grows as roads become more congested, average speeds increase, and drivers are exposed to more distractions.

The Preventing Roadside and Work Zone Deaths Act will:

• Improve reporting and accountability by requiring the Secretary of Transportation to collect, analyze, and publish detailed data on Disabled Roadside Vehicle Crashes and Work Zone Crashes, as well as encourage local uniform data collection and sharing.
• Create strategic plans to improve roadside and work zone safety from working groups convened by the Department of Transportation and relevant stakeholder groups to combat these dangerous issues.
• Use existing federal funding and authorization by utilizing the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (the current Surface Transportation Act), where authorities and funding is already available for states and cities to provide the necessary data and implement programs to prevent these accidents.
• Require FHWA to report to Congress on the use and effectiveness of work zone safety contingency funds created by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.

Read the full text of the bill here.

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) issued the following statement in response to the Musk-Trump Administration suspending AmeriCorps National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC) operations, significantly reducing staff by 85%, and terminating over 1,000 active FY24 grants nationwide.

After hearing concerns from Louisiana’s Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser, Congressman Carter and Congressman Cleo Fields (D-LA) sent a letter to President Trump and Jennifer Bastress Tahmasebi, Interim Agency Head of AmeriCorps, urging the Administration to immediately halt further implementation of these terminations, reinstate suspended grants where feasible, and fully restore AmeriCorps NCCC and other essential service functions. He also requested a full accounting of the legal basis and decision-making process behind these actions, including documentation of any cost analysis and compliance with statutory requirements for grant termination.

“The abrupt termination of the AmeriCorps VISTA program, NCCC operations, and staff reduction is more than a bureaucratic budget cut — it is a betrayal of service, community, and compassion. These cuts will devastate the very fabric of support that helps lift underserved communities in New Orleans, across Louisiana, and throughout our nation,” said Rep. Carter.

“In Louisiana’s 2nd Congressional District, AmeriCorps VISTA members have worked tirelessly and humbly, often behind the scenes, providing vital services that our cities rely on — from disaster response and community outreach to data evaluation and child care assistance. These are not abstract programs; these are real people doing real work for real families — many of whom now face an uncertain future.

“It is ironic, and deeply disheartening, that the very workers who answered the call to serve are now being cast aside in the name of ‘efficiency.’ There is nothing efficient about abandoning communities in need. There is nothing fiscally responsible about dismantling programs that yield tenfold returns in civic trust, resilience, and recovery.

“New Orleans, a city all too familiar with the challenges of natural disasters and economic hardship, cannot afford to lose these invaluable hands and hearts. And neither can America.

“I join Mayor Cantrell and even Senator Cassidy in expressing bipartisan disappointment with this decision. But more than that, I pledge to fight for the restoration of these programs and to protect those who serve our country in its most vulnerable moments. Let us not forget — a great nation doesn’t retreat from service; it invests in it.

“To the VISTA members impacted: your service matters. Your sacrifice matters. And your community stands with you,” finished Rep. Carter.

“The communities of Louisiana—and indeed the nation—rely on AmeriCorps to strengthen civic engagement, reduce poverty, and respond to disasters. Now more than ever, we cannot afford to abandon this mission or the thousands of members who have pledged to serve,” said Rep. Fields.

Background:

VISTA is a federal grant program that supports New Orleans local government by expanding its ability to offer resources to under-resourced and disproportionately impacted communities. Members of the program handled everything from research and data evaluation to community engagement and outreach, serving full time 40 hours a week.

New Orleans has hired 51 people through the AmeriCorps VISTA program since October 2020, with 21 continuing to work across 13 different city departments. AmeriCorps placed most staff members across the nation on administrative leave in mid-April amid cuts to the federal workforce and services by the Musk-Trump Administration.

Read Congressman Carter’s full letter here.

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BASILE, LA – Yesterday, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) visited Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Detention Facilities in Jena and Basile Louisiana with a bicameral congressional delegation. Joining him were Congressman Bennie Thompson (D-MS), Ranking Member of the House Homeland Security Committee, U.S. Senator Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (D-MA), and Congressman Jim McGovern (D-MA).

As part of their visits, they met Wendy Brito, an asylum-seeker from El Salvador and New Orleans-area resident who never returned from a regular check-in last month with ICE. They also met with Mahmoud Khalil and Rümeysa Öztürk, two students who have been unlawfully detained by ICE and transported to Louisiana from their homes in retaliation for their protected speech.

“No one should be snatched away from their family without due process,” said Rep. Carter. “The Musk-Trump Administration is doing this intentionally to demonstrate cruelty and instill fear in our friends and neighbors. Meeting with Wendy, Mahmoud, and Rümeysa today was heart breaking and eye opening. Wendy is a mother of three who didn’t even get the opportunity to say goodbye to her children. Mahmoud missed the birth of his first child this week. Rümeysa was not even told why she was detained. These are the actions of a weak, misguided egomaniac whose only goal is to sow fear.

“On this trip, we met Mahmoud Khalil, a lawful permanent resident and Columbia grad student detained after peaceful pro-Palestinian advocacy. ICE denied his request to attend his son’s birth on April 21. We also met Rümeysa Öztürk, a Tufts PhD student detained after co-authoring an op-ed, and Wendy Brito, an asylum-seeking mother of three from my district detained after a routine ICE check-in. All appeared physically well, but their detentions raise serious concerns about due process and First Amendment rights.

“We will continue to monitor these cases and advocate for the protection of civil liberties and the rule of law.”

“In the United States of America, no one should be arrested or deported simply for exercising their right to free speech. Mahmoud Khalil and Rümeysa Öztürk should not be in federal custody right now for peacefully speaking out,” added Ranking Member Thompson. “Our job in Congress is to ensure there is robust oversight of the administration – and ensure they are following the law. That is why we went to Louisiana yesterday. Those in the care in the Federal government must receive not only due process, but also healthcare and humane living conditions. The administration still has a lot to answer for and I intend to hold it accountable. I thank Congressman Carter for having us in his home state for this delegation.”

View photos from this visit here.

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NEW ORLEANS, LA – On Monday, Congressman Troy A. Carter Sr. (D-LA) embarked on an Agriculture Listening Tour across Louisiana to meet with local farmers, producers, researchers, and other local agricultural leaders to discuss the critical challenges and opportunities facing the state and nation’s agricultural industry.

The tour included stops at the Agriaquaculture Center of Excellence in Harvey, the ADM Grain Terminal in Destrehan, the Louisiana Farm Bureau Federation office in St. Charles Parish, River Road Farm in Vacherie, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency (FSA) Office in Donaldsonville, and the Southern University Agricultural Research and ExtensionCenter.

“I had the honor of conducting an agricultural listening tour across Louisiana, meeting with farmers, ranchers, agricultural stakeholders, and federal, state, and local agency representatives. From row crops to livestock, sugarcane to seafood, the message was unified and urgent: Louisiana agriculture needs action—not delay,” said Rep. Carter.

“In one special moment, I even had the chance to plant a few rows of sweet potatoes—a small but meaningful reminder of the hard work, precision, and care that goes into feeding our nation. It grounded the day’s discussions in something personal, tangible, and humbling. 

“Here’s what I heard across the tour:

• A fully funded Farm Bill is essential to provide certainty for producers, processors, and rural communities.

• FSA—the Farm Service Agency—and USDA grant programs are critical tools that help farmers access credit, recover from disasters, and invest in their operations.

• NRCS—the Natural Resources Conservation Service—and our Soil and Water Conservation Districts are indispensable partners in protecting Louisiana’s soil health, water quality, and long-term sustainability.

• And proposed tariffs threaten Louisiana’s access to export markets, putting our agricultural economy at serious risk.

“These aren’t just numbers in a budget. These are working families—hardworking Louisianans—who rise before sunrise, feed the world, and still need to feed their own families.

“I will continue fighting in Congress to protect the resources that our farmers depend on. These programs don’t just sustain agriculture—they sustain America.”

"Congressman Carter meeting farmers and ranchers where they are is what grassroots leadership is all about. A Farm Bill is way past due, and his support to come here and see those impacts on his home turf is much appreciated. As he heard from our parish leaders - farmers aren’t gathering to push R or D. They gathered with him looking for solutions to trade, conservation, and feeding the world. Rep. Carter's commitment to prioritizing his farming constituents and passing a Farm Bill this year furthers his track record as an invaluable Congressional ally," said Richard Fontenot, Louisiana Farm Bureau President.

View photos from the Agriculture Listening Tour here.

Background:

Agriculture is a significant economic driver in Louisiana, contributing nearly $13 billion annually through farming, forestry, and related industries, according to the LSU AgCenter's 2023 report. Key commodities like sugarcane, soybeans, rice, crawfish, poultry, and timber support tens of thousands of jobs and sustain rural communities across the state. The industry also benefits from Louisiana’s strategic export position, with major ports facilitating the shipment of agricultural goods. Beyond farming, agriculture fuels related sectors like processing, equipment supply, and bioenergy, making it vital to local and statewide economies.

 The Trump Administration recently paused funding for many critical USDA programs, including funding for Soil and Water Conservation Districts and Natural Resource Conservation Service programs and support staff in Louisiana. Many of these programs provide hands-on technical support and guidance to help farmers implement conservation practices that protect and enhance our soil, water, and natural resources.

 Louisiana farmers were expected to receive roughly $363 million from FY25 through FY31 through various USDA programs that would improve efficiency through projects that would improve water quality and retention, reduce soil runoff, and maintain soil health.

In March 2025, the Trump admin canceled a $600,000 research grant awarded to the Southern University Agricultural Center. The grant aimed to develop sustainable feminine hygiene products using natural fibers like regenerative cotton, wool, and hemp, benefiting women and girls in Louisiana.

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NEW ORLEANS, LA – Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) released the following statement on the death of His Holiness Pope Francis

“It is with a heavy heart that I join the global community in mourning the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis. A shepherd to billions, a voice for the voiceless, and a living example of Christ’s love in action, Pope Francis led with humility, compassion, and unwavering moral clarity.

“That he should leave us just after Resurrection Sunday is deeply symbolic—a final act of grace from a life lived in complete service to others. From the slums of Buenos Aires to the grandeur of the Vatican, his path was marked not by privilege, but by profound empathy and devotion to the dignity of all people.

“As a U.S. Congressman representing Louisiana—a state steeped in Catholic tradition—I have seen firsthand the depth of love and respect our community holds for this extraordinary Pontiff. He challenged us to care more, to judge less, and to walk humbly with our God. He reminded the powerful of their duty to the poor, the marginalized, and the forgotten.

“We will miss him terribly. But we are forever grateful for the example he gave us, the healing he brought to the world, and the enduring call he issued for justice, mercy, and peace.

“May his memory be eternal.

“May his soul rest in the peace of Christ.”

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) and Congressman Clay Higgins (R-LA) introduced the bipartisan Destruction of Hazardous Imports Act, which grants the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) additional authority to destroy foreign products that fail health inspections at import facilities, ensuring that contaminated, unsafe, and mislabeled seafood imports do not harm American consumers.

"This legislation will protect Louisiana’s health and support our seafood economy,” said Rep. Carter. “By granting the FDA the necessary authority to destroy food products that fail to meet our strict health and safety standards, we are closing a dangerous loophole that has allowed contaminated seafood to enter our markets. This bill protects consumers from potential health risks and upholds the integrity of our food supply chain, while supporting Louisiana fishermen and seafood processors.”

Historically, the FDA has been responsible for protecting public health by ensuring the safety, efficacy, and security of food, medicine, and medical devices. Currently, any FDA-regulated medical devices and medication can be destroyed if the agency deems the imported item a health risk for public use. However, this authority does not extend to imported food products that are inspected and fail to meet U.S. health and safety standards. Foreign entities routinely violate FDA standards by contaminating seafood imports with harmful chemicals that pose major health risks. These same companies can also “port shop” and utilize other ports of entry if they fail inspection at their initial port of entry.

“Billions of pounds of uninspected seafood continue to enter our country, causing major health concerns,” said Rep. Higgins. “We must prioritize the health and safety of the American people by holding foreign shipments to the same high standards that our U.S. producers face. In my opinion, foreign products don’t even come close to the quality of Louisiana seafood. This legislation provides the FDA with the authority to destroy illegal seafood imports and ensures that contaminated products don’t reach American markets.”

“Imported shrimp and seafood products that are potentially dangerous for consumers need to be destroyed,” said John Williams, executive director of the Southern Shrimp Alliance. “Giving these products back to the foreign shipper does little to incentivize them to address safety problems before shipping products to this country. We thank Representatives Higgins and Carter for leading a bipartisan effort to get rid of a ridiculous limitation on the FDA’s authority and improve the safety of this country’s food supply.”

Background

In March, Congressman Carter and a bipartisan coalition of Gulf representatives introduced the Save Our Shrimpers Act of 2025. This bill would prohibit federal funds from being made available to International Financial Institutions (IFIs) to finance any activity relating to shrimp farming, shrimp processing, or the export of shrimp from any foreign country to the United States.

Congressman Carter also sent a letter to U.S. Trade Representative Jameison Greer and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick outlining his concerns about harms inflicted on the U.S. domestic shrimp industry due to unfair trade practices and non-reciprocal trade agreements.

The Destruction of Hazardous Imports Act is endorsed by the Southern Shrimp Alliance.

Full bill text can be found here.

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA), Congressman Cleo Fields (D-LA), Congresswoman Julia Letlow (R-LA), and Congressman Mike Ezell (R-MS) have introduced the bipartisan National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) Authorization Extension Act which will extend the federal authorization for the NFIP. The bill would extend the program through December 31, 2026, significantly longer than the typical short-term extensions passed by Congress.

“I am proud to introduce this bill to provide the long-overdue stability our communities deserve,” said Rep. Carter. “For too long, homeowners, small businesses, and local economies have lived under the cloud of short-term NFIP extensions, often attached to contentious government funding bills. This clean, multi-year reauthorization brings much-needed certainty to policyholders and ensures uninterrupted access to flood insurance across the country. As flooding becomes more frequent and severe, we must protect families and businesses by keeping this program operating while we work to deliver lasting, comprehensive reforms to strengthen and modernize the program."

“Passing the NFIP Authorization Extension Act is essential to protecting hardworking people across Louisiana. Given our state’s history with extreme weather events, we must ensure that flood insurance remains accessible to all. My colleagues in both the House and Senate will continue to fight for those most affected by flooding throughout the state and across the country,” said Rep. Fields.

“Given the frequent storms and flooding our state endures, I’m a strong advocate for renewing the National Flood Insurance Program and making sure it serves those who depend on it. For many Louisianans, flood insurance is not just a policy—it’s a lifeline. I’m committed to working with my colleagues to strengthen this vital program and ensure our communities get the support they need when disaster strikes,” said Rep. Letlow.

"For far too long, families, businesses, and entire communities along our coast have lived with the uncertainty caused by short-term extensions of the National Flood Insurance Program. The NFIP Authorization Extension Act delivers the stability South Mississippians need and deserve as they continue to face the devastating effects of flooding and natural disasters. By extending the program through the end of 2026, we’re sending a clear message: we are committed to protecting our coastal communities, giving them the tools to recover and rebuild, and working in a bipartisan way to strengthen and modernize the program for the future,” said Rep. Ezell.

The Senate companion NFIP Authorization Extension Act was introduced by Senators Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) and John Kennedy (R-LA) in March 2025. Congressmembers Marc Veasey (D-TX), Jared Moskowitz (D-FL), and LaMonica McIver (D-NJ) are original cosponsors of the House legislation.

“Rather than experiencing a 33rd short-term extension, NFIP policyholders deserve certainty, and NFIP as a program requires stability. A two-year reauthorization will provide a runway for Congress and stakeholders to hold conversations and hearings around catastrophic insurance and towards highly-demanded comprehensive NFIP reform, like a means-tested benefit for affordability, a third-party review of the Risk Rating 2.0 methodology, and proper incentivization of flood risk mitigation,” said GNO, Inc. President Michael Hecht.

“Extending the National Flood Insurance Program would ensure continuous operations and greater stability for policyholders until a long-term reauthorization is enacted into law – a valuable source of certainty for counties and our residents,” said National Association of Counties Executive Director Matthew Chase. “Counties thank Representatives Carter, Fields, Letlow, and Ezell for their leadership, and we look forward to working with our bipartisan congressional partners to secure passage of this legislation.”

"There is no bigger challenge facing the people of Louisiana than the insurance crisis which threatens to force us from our homes and businesses.  While property insurance is the primary driver, high premiums for the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) are also a huge problem in our state. Despite any questions about FEMA’s future, Americans can now count on having flood insurance for the foreseeable future. However, we need real reform so that we stop kicking the can down the road and address shortcomings in the program once and for all," said Andreanecia M. Morris, Executive Director of HousingNOLA. 

Background

The NFIP is a federal program managed by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (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.

Over the last decade, Congress has passed 33 short-term NFIP authorization extensions, which have been attached to contentious government funding bills. Had Congress not been able to pass a government funding bill, not only would the government shut down, but the NFIP program's authorization would have also lapsed. A lapse in the program’s authorization means new policies could not be issued, existing policies could not be renewed, and real estate transactions in flood-prone areas may stall, leaving homeowners and businesses vulnerable.

A lapse in authorization also delays claims payments, increases reliance on taxpayer-funded disaster aid, and creates market instability. According to the National Association of Realtors (NAR), a lapse of NFIP could impact 1,360 home sale closings daily, translating to approximately 41,300 affected monthly transactions nationwide. By extending the program through December 31, 2026, this legislation ensures that Americans are not left in limbo and gives Congress the necessary time to work toward bipartisan solutions that strengthen and modernize the program.

Flooding is the most common and costly natural disaster in the United States, affecting communities in every state. The NFIP is a lifeline for over five million policyholders, helping them recover and rebuild after disasters.

Full bill text can be found here.

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) and Congresswoman Diana Harshbarger (R-TN) introduced the bipartisan Mitigating Automated Internet Networks (MAIN) Event Ticketing Act, which will protect consumers from online scammers and bots in the online ticket marketplace. The MAIN Event Ticketing Act boosts enforcement of the Better Online Ticket Sales (BOTS) Act of 2016, a law prohibiting ticket scalpers from using software to purchase high volumes of tickets.

“I am proud to lead this bill, which is a crucial step toward restoring fairness and transparency in the online ticket marketplace,” said Rep. Carter. “In Louisiana, the birthplace of American Music, this is especially important. By cracking down on bots and improving the enforcement of existing laws, this bipartisan legislation prioritizes fans, ensuring they have a fair chance to experience the live events they love without being priced out or misled by deceitful actors. I am honored to stand with Rep. Harshbarger, along with many artists, venues, and industry leaders, to protect consumers and uphold the integrity of live entertainment.”

"If there's one thing that can bring us all together, it's music and entertainment,” said Rep. Harshbarger.“This is especially true for East Tennessee, as we're home to music legends like Dolly Parton and Morgan Wallen. Whether it's attending a concert or a stand-up show, we all love spending time with friends and family to enjoy live entertainment. What no one loves is trying to buy a ticket to see your favorite performer—only to find that scalpers have scooped up most of the tickets and are reselling them at exorbitant prices."

The companion MAIN Event Ticketing Act was introduced by Senators Ben Ray Luján (D-NM) and Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) in February 2025.

Background

The MAIN Event Ticketing Act:

• Establishes reporting requirements for online ticket sellers to notify of successful bot attacks to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC);
• Creates a complaint database so consumers can share their experiences with the FTC, which must then share that information with state attorneys general;
• Enacts data security requirements for online ticket sellers and mandates information sharing between the FTC and law enforcement; and
• Requires a report to Congress on BOTs enforcement.

This legislation is endorsed by the Recording Academy, Recording Industry Association of America, Live Nation Entertainment, and the National Independent Venue Association.

Full bill text can be found here.

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

“My fellow Americans,

“Let me be abundantly clear: the so-called SAVE Act is not about security. It is not about election integrity. It is about suppression — pure and simple. This bill is a modern-day poll tax cloaked in patriotic rhetoric, and it represents one of the most dangerous assaults on the right to vote in a generation.

“As we sit on the House floor debating this bill — which attempts to make it more difficult for Americans to vote — I am reminded of the generations before us who bled, marched, and died to secure the right to the ballot. And now, in the year 2025, we are being asked to consider legislation that would undo that progress.

“This legislation is not only unnecessary — it is un-American. It demands burdensome documentation under the false pretense of preventing a problem that does not exist. What it will actually do is disenfranchise millions of eligible voters — particularly the poor, the elderly, students, and communities of color.

“One of the most outrageous elements of this bill is the requirement that eligible voters, who cannot readily produce certain forms of ID, may be forced to obtain a U.S. passport — at a cost of at least $130 — just to cast their ballot. Let that sink in: a $130 price tag to participate in democracy. That’s not security. That’s a poll tax. And we’ve seen it before.

“Let’s not mince words: this is the return of Jim Crow in a tailored suit.

“We have seen these tactics before. Literacy tests. Grandfather clauses. Intimidation at the ballot box. And now, voter ID mandates so stringent and convoluted that they effectively lock the ballot box for countless Americans. The SAVE Act is not saving anything. It is silencing voices.

“This bill does not protect democracy — it perverts it. It weaponizes bureaucracy to block access to the most fundamental right in a free society: the right to vote.

“Every American — regardless of party, race, or region — should rise up against this legislation. We must call it what it is: a blatant attempt to resurrect the discriminatory practices of our past and to roll back the hard-fought progress we’ve made.

“I urge my colleagues in Congress to reject this legislation with the urgency it demands. I call on the American people to remain vigilant — to speak out, organize, and vote against those who would take us backward.

“The right to vote is not a privilege for the few. It is a right for all. And we must defend it — not just for ourselves, but for the generations to come.

“This is not just a policy debate. This is a moral fight. And we cannot — we must not — lose it.”

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New Orleans, LA – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter proudly stood with more than 2,000 residents of Louisiana’s Second Congressional District as part of the national Hands Off mobilization—an inspiring, peaceful demonstration led by a coalition of passionate community organizations committed to protecting democracy, civil rights, and the rule of law.

“I was honored to stand among so many engaged, courageous citizens and to lend my voice to this powerful call for justice and accountability,” said Congressman Carter. “This movement was led by incredible grassroots organizations, and I was proud to be one of the speakers amplifying the voices of the people.”

The Hands Off mobilization, which took place simultaneously in cities across the country, was a response to rising concerns about attacks on American democracy, the judiciary, and fundamental freedoms.

“The people have spoken—loudly and clearly,” Congressman Carter continued. “We will not allow an unelected billionaire and an out-of-touch president to tear down what generations have worked so hard to build. This is our democracy, and we’re going to fight for it. Peacefully. Powerfully. Together.”

Congressman Carter reaffirmed his commitment to standing with the people of Louisiana and the nation to defend democratic values and ensure that liberty, justice, and opportunity remain within reach for all.

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) and Congressman Cleo Fields (D-LA) sent a letter to President Donald Trump, Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, and Acting Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator Cameron Hamilton opposing the Musk-Trump Administration’s dismantling of FEMA. Louisianians know better than anyone that a robust federal disaster response agency is essential to ensure rapid response, coordinated resource distribution, financial and logistical support, equitable assistance, and long-term mitigation as natural disasters increase in frequency and severity.

“FEMA is far from perfect, but the Musk-Trump Administration’s proposed gutting of FEMA is not just reckless—it’s dangerous,” said Rep. Carter. “Louisiana has seen firsthand the devastation that disasters leave behind, and we know that recovery doesn’t stop when the flood waters recede. FEMA has been a lifeline for our communities, providing critical relief and long-term support to help families rebuild their homes and support communities to protect themselves from future events. Stripping away these essential programs would leave millions of Americans vulnerable and unprotected as natural disasters become more dangerous and frequent. I will fight tooth and nail to ensure that FEMA remains strong, well-funded, and fully equipped to respond to the increasing threats of the climate crisis. Our communities cannot afford to be abandoned in their time of greatest need.”

“FEMA is on the ground for every hurricane in Louisiana. Cuts to the organization would devastate the most vulnerable people in our state during some of the worse moments in their life. Congress, across party lines, needs to do everything in our power to protect FEMA funding,” said Rep. Fields.

Read the full letter here.

Background

Louisiana has been a major recipient of FEMA assistance, with nearly 500,000 combined households applying for FEMA funds since 2021. Since FEMA was overhauled in 2003, no state has received more funding than Louisiana, which has received nearly $47 billion over 28 disaster incidents, serving approximately 3.5 million households and nearly 43,000 public assistance projects. However, Louisiana is far from the only recipient of this critical aid and assistance. In 2024, FEMA responded to over 100 disasters, including two catastrophic hurricanes—Helene and Milton—that struck within two weeks, causing widespread destruction. Additionally, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reported 27 weather and climate disaster events in the U.S. last year with losses exceeding $1 billion.

President Trump's proposal to overhaul FEMA involves significantly reducing its role by shifting disaster response responsibilities to individual states, limiting FEMA's involvement to immediate disaster relief and eliminating its long-term rebuilding grants and disaster preparedness programs. This plan aligns with recommendations from Project 2025, which advocates for privatizing FEMA's National Flood Insurance Program and decreasing federal cost-sharing in disaster recovery efforts. These efforts could disproportionately affect states with limited resources, particularly those frequently impacted by natural disasters, by increasing their financial and logistical burdens. Additionally, reducing federal coordination and support may hinder efficient disaster response and recovery, potentially leading to increased casualties and prolonged economic hardship in disaster-stricken areas. ​

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

“In Louisiana’s Second Congressional District, we know the value of hard work—and we know when we’re being taken for granted. From New Orleans to Baton Rouge, from the River Parishes to the West Bank, families and small businesses will be paying more for everyday goods. And while some call it inflation, let’s be honest: this is the Trump Tax.

“When Donald Trump imposes tariffs, he isn’t taxing foreign governments—he’s taxing us. Prices will go up on goods we rely on: clothing, food, appliances, and construction materials. Our port workers, truck drivers, shipbuilders, and small business owners will all feel the sting of these costs passed down from Washington.

“The Trump Tax will hit our district hard. We are home to major shipping corridors, import/export businesses, manufacturing plants, and a vibrant hospitality industry—all sectors impacted by increased costs under Trump’s tariff policies. When the price of goods goes up, it doesn’t just hurt the consumer—it hurts the economy of the entire district.

“Trump is raising taxes on working people in the 2nd District while giving billionaires and big corporations massive tax breaks. That’s not leadership—that’s a betrayal of the people who keep this country running.

“I will continue to fight for economic justice, to lower costs, and to hold those accountable who are raising taxes on working families while calling it something else. In Louisiana’s Second District, we know a bad deal when we see one. And the Trump Tax is a bad deal for all of us.”

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