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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) introduced the bipartisan Securing the Cities Improvement Act which would enhance the Securing the Cities (STC) program at the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The STC program seeks to reduce the risk of terrorist attacks in high-risk urban areas, including New Orleans. 

“My bill will help cities build and maintain their security capabilities against nuclear, radiological, chemical, and biological threats, offering a more targeted and effective approach to national security preparedness and response,” said Rep. Carter.“This legislation is critical for sustaining our preparedness and ensuring the safety of our nation against terrorism, showing that we're serious about protecting our communities, including New Orleans and the surrounding areas, which are vital to our nation's energy and economic security. Following the tragedy that took place on Bourbon Street on New Year’s Day, this is more important than ever.” 

The Securing the Cities Improvement Act would enable the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Office of Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction (CWMD) to identify which cities to partner with for the STC program based on the jurisdiction's capability and capacity to prepare for and respond to terrorist attacks and other high-consequence events involving nuclear or other radiological materials. It would also establish performance metrics and milestones for the STC program and mandate DHS to report to Congress on program participation and any plans for changes to the program. 

Background:

The Department of Homeland Security launched the STC Initiative in Fiscal Year 2007 as a pilot program to assist New York City, Jersey City, and Newark in detecting and preventing nuclear or radiological threats. The STC program has expanded and currently provides 14 local governments with detection equipment, training, exercise support, operational and technical expertise, and programmatic assistance. However, the program is restricted to “high-risk urban areas” designated by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) under the Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI) program. This connection between STC and UASI can create uncertainty for local governments participating in the program, as the composition of jurisdictions in the UASI program can vary significantly each year. 

The Securing the Cities Improvement Act is cosponsored by Reps. Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS) and Clay Higgins (R-LA). 

Read the full bill text here. 

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) as First Vice Chair of the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC), working alongside Rep. Garrett Graves (R-LA) as an original cosponsor of the bipartisan Social Security Fairness Act, announced that approximately 94,000 Louisiana public servants hurt by the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO) will immediately begin receiving Social Security benefit increases and retroactive payments from the U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Congressman Carter worked tirelessly to mobilize a discharge petition and force a vote on the House floor for this legislation and has been advocating for these provisions to be repealed since before he was elected to Congress. Congressman Carter brought nearly 60 of his fellow CBC members to this effort. 

The Social Security Fairness Act, which fully repeals the two unfair Social Security provisions, WEP and GPO, was signed into law on January 5, 2025, by President Joe Biden. 

“Our teachers, firefighters, police officers, and countless other public servants in Louisiana and around the country must receive their hard-earned benefits,” said Rep. Carter. “Public servants dedicate their lives to our communities, and it’s only right that they receive the full retirement compensation they deserve as quickly as possible. After a long journey, I’m happy to see the SSA moving forward with these payments. 

“However, I am deeply concerned by reports that the Musk-Trump Administration is shutting down offices and firing critical SSA staff. Dismissing the people who process Social Security checks means seniors won’t get the benefits they earned, plain and simple. Democrats won’t let this happen. We are doing everything in our power to protect hardworking American taxpayers.” 

The Social Security Fairness Act passed in the House of Representatives in November 2024 with a vote of 327 – 75 and in December 2024 in the Senate with a vote of 76 – 20. 

Beginning this week, the SSA will start issuing retroactive payments and will increase monthly benefit payments beginning in April. Many beneficiaries will be owed a retroactive payment because the WEP and GPO offset no longer apply as of January 2024. Most people will receive their one-time retroactive payment by the end of March, which will be deposited into their bank account on record with Social Security. Many of these people will also receive higher monthly benefits, which will first be reflected in the benefit payment they receive in April. Depending on factors such as the type of Social Security benefit received and the amount of the person’s pension, the change in payment amount will vary from person to person. 

Anyone whose monthly benefit is adjusted, or who will get a retroactive payment, will receive a mailed notice from Social Security explaining the benefit change or retroactive payment. Most people will receive their retroactive payment two to three weeks before they receive their notice in the mail. 

You can visit the agency’s Social Security Fairness Act webpage to learn more and stay up to date on its progress.

Background 

In December 2023, Congressman Carter was the Ranking Member for a Ways and Means Committee field hearing in Baton Rouge, LA focused on the effects of the Windfall Elimination Penalty (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO) on everyday Americans, where he heard from Louisianians struggling to make ends meet due to these harmful provisions. 

The WEP and GPO prevent federal retirees like police, teachers, firefighters, state workers and their spouses who earned pensions from those careers from collecting their full Social Security benefits earned while working outside of government, affecting over two million Americans, including thousands in Louisiana.

WEP dates to 1983 and reduces Social Security benefits for workers who paid into both a civil service pension from their time in government employment and Social Security, in a Social Security covered job outside of government. 

GPO dates to 1977 and reduces by two-thirds the retirement or disability pension from a federal, state, or local government for spouses and widows or widowers if the spouse or widow did not pay in themselves. 

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) issued the following statement after voting no on the dangerous Republican Budget Resolution:

“Tonight, I voted no on the Republican budget. Let me be clear: this plan is a direct attack on the hardworking families of this country. The proposed budget dismantles vital services, cuts Medicaid by nearly $1 trillion, slashes assistance for the farmers and small businesses who power our economy, and takes away health care from millions of Americans, all while handing out massive tax breaks to billionaires and big corporations.

“This budget is not about fiscal responsibility; it’s about prioritizing the ultra-wealthy and leaving everyday Americans behind. It rewards corporate donors and the wealthiest few with trillions in tax cuts, while struggling families are left to fend for themselves. This plan will make health care less affordable, drive-up costs for working families, and leave people without the support they depend on to stay healthy and safe.

“I stand with Louisianians who rely on Medicaid, food assistance, and critical services to survive. The Republican budget would devastate these programs, making it harder for families to put food on the table, access healthcare, and ensure a better future for their children. We cannot afford to let the wealthiest Americans continue to benefit from tax cuts while vulnerable families bear the burden.

“This budget is not about cutting costs for the middle class — it’s a bait-and-switch that deepens inequality. I cannot and will not support a plan that harms seniors, children, veterans, and the most vulnerable in our communities, all to benefit the ultra-rich. I will continue to fight for a budget that reflects the values of fairness, compassion, and opportunity for all Americans, not just the wealthy few.

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) and Congressman Mike Ezell (R-MS) introduced the Mississippi River Basin Fisheries Commission Act of 2025 to establish the Mississippi River Basin Fishery Commission, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at protecting and enhancing one of America’s most vital waterways by enhancing interagency coordination along the river. This commission will ensure the long-term health of fisheries, habitats, water quality, and the economic livelihoods that depend on them.

“Louisianians know that the Mississippi River Basin is vital to our communities, our fishermen, and our environment,” said Rep. Carter. “This bill is a critical step in securing the future of this iconic waterway. By bringing together federal, state, and local partners, we can tackle the challenges of invasive species, habitat degradation, and water quality to ensure a healthy, sustainable fishery for generations to come. This commission will help preserve the extraordinary biodiversity of the basin and protect the livelihoods of countless individuals who depend on these waters for their work and way of life. I’m proud of this bipartisan effort to strengthen our economy, protect our natural resources, and ensure a thriving Mississippi River Basin for generations.”

The Mississippi River Basin spans 31 states and is home to an extraordinary diversity of fish and wildlife. However, invasive species, habitat degradation, and water quality concerns threaten its ecosystems. The Mississippi River Basin Fishery Commission will serve as a collaborative, science-driven body, working with federal agencies, state governments, and local stakeholders to tackle these challenges head-on.

“The Mississippi River Basin is not just a geographical feature—it’s the backbone of our economy, a provider of jobs, and a sanctuary for our nation’s anglers and wildlife,” said Rep. Ezell. “This commission will ensure we’re taking a proactive approach to conservation, management, and sustainability, securing this resource for generations to come. Healthy fisheries mean a stronger economy and better opportunities for those who depend on the river for their livelihoods. This is about securing our natural resources while supporting hardworking families.”

“This legislation is the culmination of decades of hard work by many fisheries management biologists, professionals, and organizations who are passionate about the rivers, streams, and bodies of water throughout the 31 states in the Mississippi River Basin and the people who love to go fishing and recreate on those waterways," said Ashlee Smith, Mississippi Wildlife Federation. "States and their conservation partners will now have the resources they need to fight invasive species such as carp, harmful vegetation, and zebra mussels that are degrading the watershed, and the tools to increase the health and viability of our native aquatic species such as paddlefish, sturgeon and sportfish.”

"For decades, states have struggled to find dedicated resources to adequately manage large river species that cross many state, federal, and tribal jurisdictions during their lifetimes," said Ben Batten, Deputy Director of Arkansas Game and Fish Commission and Chair of the Mississippi Interstate Cooperative Resource Association. "This legislation provides the structure and resources to help the basin states and their partners manage these complicated animals along with their habitats. The future for aquatic resources will be bright in the Basin if this becomes law.”

“Anglers from Minnesota to Louisiana can attest to the challenges facing the fisheries of the Mississippi River Basin, including habitat degradation and aquatic invasive species,” said Glenn Hughes, president of the American Sportfishing Association (ASA). “ASA thanks Representatives Ezell and Carter for their leadership of the Mississippi River Basin Fishery Commission Act, which will provide crucial, coordinated support to the state fish and wildlife agencies managing and restoring the Basin’s recreational fisheries, enhancing fishing opportunities for millions of anglers.”

"By uniting efforts across the Mississippi River Basin, this commission will play a vital role in protecting fishery resources, managing invasive species, and supporting sustainable fishing opportunities that benefit both our anglers and local communities,” said Jerry Brown, MDWFP Director of Fisheries.

"The Mississippi River Basin and its tributaries are critical for the millions of people and the wildlife that rely on the river. The Mississippi River Fisheries Commission Act will improve collaboration amongst states, promote an integrated science and research program, increase the efficiency of decision-making and allocation of federal resources to address fishery management and combat aquatic invasive species, like invasive carp,” said Marc Smith, policy director for the National Wildlife Federation. "We applaud Reps. Mike Ezell (R-MS) and Troy Carter (D-LA) for leading the effort to protect these world-class fisheries, support the outdoor economy, and enhance quality of life in the region."

Background:

The Mississippi River Basin Fishery Commission Act of 2025 will:

• Establish the Mississippi River Basin Fishery Commission as a federally funded entity.
• Provide grants and resources for habitat restoration, fishery research, and invasive species mitigation.
• Strengthen partnerships between local, state, and federal agencies for coordinated fishery management.
• Support commercial and recreational fishing industries by promoting sustainable practices and economic growth.

The legislation has bipartisan support and endorsements from dozens of conservation groups, fisheries organizations, and local leaders who recognize the importance of preserving the Mississippi River Basin’s ecological and economic future.

To read the full text of the bill, click here.

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

“As we approach the federal budget debate in Washington, D.C., let me be perfectly clear: I will not support any budget that dismantles our nation’s vital infrastructure, slashes essential services, or strips healthcare from the American people. These are real lives—not numbers on a spreadsheet—and I refuse to stand by while an unelected billionaire experiments with the well-being of hardworking families.

“Why are they proposing this budget? To hand out massive tax cuts that overwhelmingly benefit corporations and the ultra-wealthy—while everyday Americans pay the price. This is not about fiscal responsibility; it’s about shifting resources away from those who need them most to pad the pockets of those who need them least.

“This is not about partisan politics; this is about principle. The American people deserve a government that works for them, prioritizes their well-being, and upholds our shared values of fairness, stability, and opportunity. Reckless policies that leave our communities vulnerable are simply unacceptable.

“Cutting these essential services doesn’t just hurt the bottom line—it devastates real people. It means children going without proper nutrition and education. It means farmers struggling to keep their livelihoods afloat. It means seniors unable to afford life-saving medication and veterans left without the support they were promised. It means working families losing access to healthcare, public safety, and the very infrastructure and jobs that keeps our economy moving.

“I stand firmly with the people I serve, and I won’t be silent. You are hearing it loud and clear from me personally: I will not stand for this. Our country deserves a budget that reflects wisdom, compassion, and a genuine commitment to the people—not special interests or unchecked power. America deserves nothing less— America deserves better!”

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) and Reps. Neal Dunn, M.D. (R-FL), Yvette Clarke (D-NY), and Greg Murphy, M.D. (R-NC) introduced their bipartisan legislation, the Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Screening for High-risk Insured Men (HIM) Act. This bill would require private health insurance plans to cover preventive prostate cancer screenings without imposing any cost-sharing requirements for men who are at high risk of developing prostate cancer, eliminating unnecessary barriers to early diagnosis and treatment.

“Prostate cancer is an issue that has personally affected my relatives and so many other Black families,” said Rep. Carter. “Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer deaths in men in the United States, with Black men being disproportionately impacted and over twice as likely to die following a diagnosis. To address the disparities in prostatecancer outcomes, we must ensure at-risk populations have access to prevention, early detection, and treatment options. Prostate cancer doesn’t have to be a death sentence. When diagnosed early enough, the survival rate is almost 100%. Together, we can beat this horrible disease.”

Prostate cancer affects 1 in 8 American men in their lifetime and disproportionately affects African American men with 1 in 6 being diagnosed. Individuals who have at least one close family member diagnosed with the disease are at least twice as likely to be diagnosed themselves.

Currently, the Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test is the most effective tool for detection. When detected early, it is almost 100 percent survivable.

“As a urologist who has dedicated much of his professional life to men’s health, I know that preventative screenings for prostate cancer and early detection are vital to ensuring successful patient outcomes and can be lifesaving,” said Congressman Dunn. “Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in men and can be life-threatening if not addressed in its early stages. Men with a family history of prostate cancer should not have to face any additional costs for being proactive and seeking preventative screenings. I’m proud to have strong bipartisan support for this legislation and look forward to leading the effort to keep American men healthy.”

"As the daughter of a prostate cancer survivor, I know the pain and uncertainty that tragic diagnosis brings all too well. Though years have passed since my father’s recovery, today, prostate cancer remains the second-leading cause of cancer death for men in the U.S. – a figure that is even more dire for Black men. The PSA Screening for HIM Act would remove cost-sharing roadblocks of PSA Testing for those at highest risk of being diagnosed with prostate cancer, including Black men and those with a family history. While we continue our work to one day ensure no American suffers from prostatecancer, I’m proud to co-lead legislation to help eliminate disparities and barriers when screening for this heartbreaking disease," said Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke.

“Patients should not face the barrier of rising medical costs when it comes to receiving lifesaving health screening services,” said Congressman Greg Murphy, M.D. “As a practicing urologist who still cares for patients with prostatecancer, it is crucial for men who are at high risk to receive preventative screenings. The PSA Screening for HIM Act will remove a significant barrier that prevents far too many from accessing early detection. PSA screening saves lives and should be afforded to every at-risk male.”

“Early detection of prostate cancer is absolutely critical to survival. We are grateful for Rep. Dunn and Rep. Clarke's personal commitment to eliminating financial barriers that stand between men and longer, healthier lives and for their introduction of the PSA Screening for HIM Act," said ZERO Prostate Cancer CEO Courtney Bugler.

“Out of pocket costs can be a major obstacle to accessing screening,” said Dr. Wayne A.I. Frederick, interim chief executive officer of the American Cancer Society and ACS CAN. “The PSA Screening for HIM Act will help remove this barrier and enable those at high risk to get the prostate cancer screening tests they need to detect prostate cancer at the earliest, most treatable stage.”

The companion PSA Screening for HIM Act was introduced by Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and John Boozman (R-AR) in January 2025.

To read the full text of the bill, click here.

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Tonight, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) issued the following statement defending America’s federal workforce from attacks from the Trump Administration:

“Louisiana’s federal employees—and millions like them nationwide—are the backbone of our government. They process Social Security benefits, protect our environment, care for our veterans, and keep our communities safe. Yet, once again, they face attacks from President Donald Trump, who seeks to dismantle the civil service and replace skilled professionals with political loyalists.

“His latest scheme—a so-called “deferred resignation” offer—is a trap. There is no legal basis for it, and those who accept could find themselves unemployed with no recourse. Even more dangerous is Schedule F, a reckless policy designed to strip civil servants of job protections, allowing mass firings based on political loyalty rather than expertise. The goal? To replace competence with compliance.

“Union-busting, contract violations, and political purges don’t just harm federal workers—they harm every American who depends on government services. Gutting agencies means delayed Social Security payments, fewer resources for veterans, and weaker law enforcement. We cannot allow this blatant power grab to weaken the institutions that serve us all.

“To every federal worker in Louisiana and beyond: you are valued, you are needed, and you are not alone. As a proud member of Congress, I will fight to protect your rights, your jobs, and the integrity of your service. The government should be staffed by professionals based on merit—not loyalty to any politician.

“Americans deserve a government that works for them, not one manipulated for political gain. I urge my colleagues and citizens to stand against these dangerous proposals and defend our civil service.”

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) issued the following statement in response to President Donald Trump’s suggestion that the Gaza Strip be developed into a luxury destination akin to the French Riviera:

“At a time when the world should be focused on meaningful solutions to end the suffering in Gaza, President Trump has once again reduced a deeply complex humanitarian crisis to a real estate deal. Calling for the transformation of a war-ravaged land into a playground for the wealthy is not a peace plan—it’s an insult to those who have endured immense hardship and loss.

“What about the people of Gaza? What about their right to self-determination? What about a two-state solution, a lasting peace, and the dignity of those who have called this land home for generations? True leadership requires serious diplomacy, a commitment to human rights, and respect for international law—not glib fantasies of turning devastation into a beachfront investment opportunity.

“The world must work toward a just and lasting resolution to this conflict—one that ensures security, prosperity, and dignity for both Israelis and Palestinians. That requires real statesmanship, not a sales pitch.”

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) issued a statement following the Trump Administration rescinding an order to federal agencies to freeze grant and loan payments, withholding vital funding for Americans:

“Louisiana, this is what happens when we fight! The illegal funding freeze has been rescinded, protecting critical programs for millions of Americans including our veterans. I said I wouldn’t let our families be attacked and I meant it. Let’s keep up the good work – because this fight isn’t over. Promises made, promises kept!”

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) issued a statement following the Trump Administration’s order to federal agencies to freeze grant and loan payments, withholding vital funding, beginning at 5:00pm this afternoon:

“Freezing federal grant and loan payments is a direct attack on everyday Louisianians and our most vulnerable communities. This order halts essential funding already approved by Congress—crippling public programs, killing jobs, and sowing chaos across the country.

“As a signatory of the letter demanding transparency from the Trump Administration on this directive, I am deeply alarmed by the catastrophic impact this freeze will have on critical services, including the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline which I have been a staunch advocate for. At a time when our nation faces unprecedented mental health challenges, freezing funding for lifesaving mental health services is both unconscionable and dangerous.

“Let me be clear: This funding freeze is illegal. The Constitution gives Congress the power of the purse—not the President. This reckless overreach defies our laws, disregards checks and balances, and jeopardizes the well-being of millions of Americans.

“This action is not governance—it is sabotage. And it is hurting the very people this government is meant to serve. I will fight back against this extreme funding freeze and ensure our communities receive the resources they are owed and deserve. I will also continue working with House Democrats to put a stop to any attacks against the American people.”

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) released the following statement in response to President Biden’s acknowledgment that the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) should be formally added to the U.S. Constitution as the 28th Amendment:

“Since my earliest days in the Louisiana State Legislature, I have advocated for the Equal Rights Amendment, which guarantees constitutional protections for every American, regardless of sex. Equality is a fundamental promise of our democracy, and the Equal Rights Amendment is essential to fulfilling that promise. Ratified by three-fourths of the states and supported by the will of the American people, the Equal Rights Amendment deserves a place in our Constitution. It ensures equal rights and protections under the law, strengthens our nation by affirming women's equality, and honors the voices of those who have fought for civil rights throughout generations.

“I’m grateful to President Biden for making this this long-overdue acknowledgement. I’m proud to have been a partner of the Biden-Harris Administration over the last four years and think this is a fitting way to close out the important work we have done. It's past time for it to be formally recognized by the Archivist as the 28th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. Promises made, promises kept!”

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) announced up to $21,117,115 for the National Railroad Passenger Corporation (Amtrak) from the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) to restore intercity passenger rail service along the Gulf Coast from New Orleans, LA to Mobile, AL. This funding was made possible by the FRA Restoration and Enhancement Grant Program, funded by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), which Congressman Carter proudly helped craft and voted for.

“Today marks a historic step forward for our Gulf Coast communities. This funding is not just restoring a rail line, it is reigniting economic opportunity, expanding access to transportation, and reconnecting families and businesses across the region,” said Rep. Carter. “Thanks to the transformative Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, this investment demonstrates our commitment to rebuilding stronger and more connected communities. The New Orleans to Mobile Amtrak line is more than a route; it’s a bridge to growth and prosperity for generations to come. All aboard!”

This funding combined with previous federal awards—including a $176 million grant from the FRA in 2023 for infrastructure improvements—will help re-establish two daily roundtrip passenger rail services to communities along the route and connect the area to Amtrak’s national rail network. Today’s award will cover operating costs of the line during the first three years of service. Importantly, the project will also offer potential economic development advantages to nearby rural and disadvantaged communities.

Background

Passenger rail service between New Orleans and Mobile has been suspended since Hurricane Katrina struck the area and destroyed critical rail infrastructure in 2005. Congressman Carter has long advocated for restoring passenger rail for the New Orleans region and entire Gulf Coast, including re-establishing this line, as well as connecting New Orleans to Baton Rouge.

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