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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter Sr. (D-LA) and Congressman Rudy Yakym (R-IN) introduced the bipartisan Preventing Roadside Deaths Act. This legislation would require the Department of Transportation (DOT) to collect, analyze, compile, and publish accurate, detailed data on disabled roadside vehicle accidents and develop a strategic plan to stop these accidents.
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 in December 2022 is a stark 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 and the 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. I want to thank Congressman Yakym for his leadership on traffic safety issues, as well as Dr. Martinez and the coalition of traffic safety experts who helped craft this legislation.”
Being stuck along America’s roadways is incredibly dangerous and a growing problem. Studies show that accidents involving disabled roadside vehicles are often underreported and likely kill or injure over fifteen thousand people in America annually.
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 craft legislation that will make our roadways safer for passengers of disabled vehicles.
“Injuries and deaths resulting from crashes involving disabled roadside vehicles are a tragic and largely preventable problem in our country,” said Rep. Yakym. “I am proud to partner with Congressman Carter on this commonsense, bipartisan legislation so we can help solve a very real issue that affects tens of thousands of people each year and advance a goal we both share: keeping our constituents and all Americans safe on the sides of our roads.”
“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 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 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 Rep. Troy Carter, Sr. (D-LA) and Rep. Rudy Yakym (R-IN) 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 Deaths Act is a good first step in that direction and looks forward to working with Congressman Carter, Congressman Yakym, 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 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.
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, and Major County Sheriffs of 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 Deaths Act will increase awareness of the scope and causes of this problem so we can implement effective preventative countermeasures. The bill will:
- Improves reporting and accountability by requiring the Secretary of Transportation to collect, analyze, and publish detailed data on Disabled Roadside Vehicle Crashes, and encourage local uniform data collection and sharing
- Creates a strategic plan from a working group convened by the Department of Transportation and relevant stakeholder groups to combat this issue
- Uses 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.
Read a one-page summary of the bill here.
Read the full text of the bill here.
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NEW ORLEANS, LA – Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) will conduct a joint helicopter assessment with the United States Coast Guard this morning, surveying the damage caused by Hurricane Francine across the hardest-hit areas of Louisiana. He will be joined by Admiral David C. Barata. The flight will provide a critical aerial view of impacted communities and infrastructure, guiding ongoing relief and recovery efforts.
“Hurricane Francine has left a path of destruction across many parts of Louisiana, with homes, businesses, and public infrastructure severely damaged,” said Rep. Carter. “Our top priority is ensuring the safety of our residents, delivering immediate relief, and beginning the rebuilding process as quickly as possible.”
The aerial assessment with the U.S. Coast Guard will provide real-time insight into the scale of the damage, allowing federal, state, and local agencies to coordinate recovery efforts effectively. The flight will cover impacted areas in LA-02.
Congressman Carter emphasized the importance of federal resources in supporting Louisiana’s recovery. "As we assess the damage, I am working closely with FEMA, local agencies, and Governor Landry’s office to secure the necessary resources for recovery. I will continue to advocate for the speedy delivery of emergency assistance and ensure that federal agencies remain engaged in our full recovery.”
Congressman Carter will continue to work with federal, state, and local officials to ensure a coordinated response. The Congressman encourages affected residents to follow all safety advisories and stay informed through local authorities.
Louisianians can subscribe to Congressman Carter’s newsletter at TroyCarter.House.Gov and follow official social media platforms @RepTroyCarter to continue receiving the most up-to-date hurricane resources available.
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NEW ORLEANS, LA – Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) issued the following statement on Hurricane Francine recovery:
“President Biden has signed the disaster declaration, making federal resources available for our response to Hurricane Francine. The FEMA Administrator will be on the ground in Louisiana to assess the damage firsthand and expedite the deployment of necessary resources.
“Please rest assured that I stand ready to assist in every way possible to ensure that our communities receive the support they need.”
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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) sent a bipartisan letter to House leadership and House Appropriations Committee leaders urging congressional action to replenish FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund (DRF). Reps. Jared Moskowitz (D-FL), Kat Cammack (R-FL), and Neal Dunn (R-FL) joined Congressman Carter on this request.
The DRF is the primary funding source for the federal government's disaster relief programs. It funds "Direct Disaster Programs," which are the Individual Assistance (IA), Public Assistance (PA), and the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) programs. On August 7th, FEMA announced that the DRF had become depleted and implemented Immediate Needs Funding (INF)—redirecting money from other programs to respond to the most urgent, lifesaving needs. Though FEMA can still respond to immediate disasters, implementing INF will result in stalled payments for past disasters and grant awards, potential staff furloughs, and delays in future disaster planning measures. These delayed payments put communities at risk of future disasters by halting critical disaster planning and hazard mitigation construction projects. The agency projects a DRF deficit of over $6 billion by the end of FY2024 without supplemental appropriations.
“Storms don’t discriminate and it’s more important than ever that we work together to save lives and prepare our communities,” said Rep. Carter. “By replenishing FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund, we’re ensuring that the federal government isn’t only responding to current disasters, but also actively rebuilding from past events and mitigating future disasters. It’s imperative that Congress acts again soon to make up this deficit so that we have a fully functioning FEMA, especially now in the middle of hurricane season.”
“The nation has already been victim to 15 weather and climate disasters that cost at least $1 billion in 2024, on top of a record year of disaster events last year. NOAA predicts that this will be the busiest hurricane season on record,” the Members wrote. “This is the second straight year that the DRF has been nearly depleted—a last-minute continuing resolution in late September 2023 replenished the fund. We ask that Congress act again soon to pass DRF funding so FEMA can work at full capacity.”
“As the former Emergency Management Director for Florida, the financial state of FEMA’s Disaster Relief Fund is incredibly troubling. This is the second year in a row that Congress has let the Disaster Relief Fund be depleted. I introduced H.R. 8716 in June to avoid this scenario, but Congress has unfortunately become far too reactive instead of proactive. We must demonstrate to the American people that our government still works and can carry out basic functions like helping those impacted by disaster recover in their hour of greatest need. Emergency management is something that shouldn’t ever be politicized or used as a bargaining chip, and I’m thankful to my colleagues across the aisle for joining me in calling for this funding,” said Rep. Moskowitz.
“In Florida, we’re no strangers to natural disasters and the long recovery process that follows,” said Rep. Cammack. “The Disaster Relief Fund is a useful tool to get communities back on their feet and to help those in need recovery from these life-altering events, but it only works when it has the necessary funds to help the American people. I’m glad to join Rep. Moskowitz and my bipartisan colleagues in calling on Congress to refresh the DRF.”
"FEMA is often the first line of recovery when disaster strikes, making it crucial to replenish the Disaster Relief Fund so that communities in North Florida have the support they need," said Rep. Dunn. "These funds must be appropriated ahead of time to ensure a swift response. It's vital that appropriations discussions take into account the disaster preparedness needs of American communities.”
Background
Reps. Carter and Moskowitz are the co-chairs of the Bipartisan Congressional Disaster Preparedness and Recovery Caucus, which they formed in 2023. The caucus works across the aisle to advance legislation and policies that provide efficient, equitable relief for disaster survivors and promote measures for impacted communities to recover fully. The caucus also advocates for disaster preparedness and programs that help save lives while readying America’s communities for future incidents.
Read the full letter here.
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NEW ORLEANS, LA – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) celebrated two federal awards he championed for infrastructure investments in the River Parishes. Congressman Carter personally selected both the Port of South Louisiana and the Town of Lutcher to receive $500,000 each as a part of his FY 2024 Community Project Funding (CPF) requests. He was joined at the Port of South Louisiana today by Chief Executive Officer Paul Matthews, Mayor Patrick St. Pierre, and other local elected officials.
“I am excited to announce two critical grants that will significantly improve our infrastructure, grow our economy, and enhance the quality of life for all residents in the River Parishes,” said Rep. Carter. “These awards are not just important for the communities here but also for the entire nation that depends on this region to export our grain, move imports up the river, and refine our energy. I promise to keep fighting for investments that bring tangible benefits to the River Parishes. Together, we will build the infrastructure we need, protect our homes, and create opportunities for generations to come.”
The Port South Louisiana will receive $500,000 for the Master Drainage Plan to clean and widen ditches, upgrade drainage infrastructure, and create detention ponds to manage stormwater and prevent flooding.
King Avenue, a major access point in the Town of Lutcher, faces high traffic due to its proximity to a densely populated apartment complex and a school, with frequent pedestrian, truck, and school bus use. Lutcher will receive $500,000 to build a new roadway to improve access and address potential flooding issues.
“Congressman Troy Carter’s unwavering support for the Port of South Louisiana and this crucial funding for the Port’s master drainage project exemplify his commitment to both regional infrastructure and economic growth," said PortSL CEO Paul Matthews.” His leadership ensures that Louisiana's largest tonnage port, which connects 31 states to the world, remains a vital hub of international commerce while safeguarding our local community from potential flooding, securing a brighter and more prosperous future for River Region families."
“Congressman Troy Carter’s support has made a dramatic impact on the infrastructure in the Town of Lutcher; we would like to express our sincere gratitude to him and his professional staff,” said Patrick St. Pierre, Mayor Town of Lutcher.
Learn more about all of Congressman Carter’s FY 2024 Community Project Funding selections here.
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NEW ORLEANS, LA – Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) issued the following statement after the announcement that Sybil Haydel Morial passed away:
“My heart is heavy with the news of the passing of the beloved Sybil Haydel Morial. Please accept my deepest condolences on the loss of such a remarkable woman. Mrs. Morial’s legacy as the matriarch of the iconic Morial family and her own contributions to civil rights and the city of New Orleans will forever be remembered with reverence and gratitude.
“As the wife of the late Ernest “Dutch” Morial, New Orleans’ first African American Mayor, she stood as a pillar of strength, grace, and wisdom—not only for her family but for countless individuals whose lives she touched through her tireless advocacy and leadership. Her commitment to education, equality, and justice served as a beacon of hope, inspiring generations to continue the fight for a more just society.
“Though words can scarcely ease the grief that you must be feeling at this time, I hope you find comfort in knowing that her spirit lives on in the enduring legacy of service, dignity, and love she instilled in all of us. Her impact on the world will continue through her children, her grandchildren, and the many lives she uplifted.
“May God bless you and keep you in His grace during this difficult time.”
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NEW ORLEANS, LA – Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) celebrated 17 federal awards he has championed for New Orleans East and the 9th Ward. Since his election to Congress, Congressman Carter has supported numerous federal investments for this vital part of Louisiana’s Second Congressional District. These grants focus on environmental justice, community and economic development, and building stronger, more resilient infrastructure. Congressman Carter has been instrumental in bringing home over $146 million in federal grants to these communities over the last three years.
“Before being elected Congressman, I spent a great deal of time listening to the needs of our communities as a state legislator and city councilman. Here in New Orleans East and the Lower 9th Ward, I heard about a lack of recreational activities and infrastructure investment, as well as a feeling that these areas were not prioritized for disaster recovery,” said Rep. Carter. “Today is just the beginning, these projects will require ongoing collaboration and commitment from every one of us. We have shown that working together makes incredible things possible.”
Congressman Carter secured $14 million through Community Project Funding (CPF) going to four unique projects in the East and 9th Ward that he selected over the last three federal fiscal years. These awards will implement a bridge across Hayne Boulevard to restore access to Lincoln Beach, multi-modal transportation and safety improvements along Morrison Road, improvements to the Sankofa Wetlands Park and Nature Trail, and a public athletic venue for the 9th Ward community.
He was joined by elected officials, community partners, and local advocates, including representatives from the City of New Orleans, New Orleans Regional Planning Commission, Louisiana Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority, Entergy New Orleans, The Water Institute, Coalition to Restore Coastal Louisiana, Sankofa Community Development Corporation, 9th Ward Stadium, Inc., KIPP New Orleans, and Lincoln Beach advocates.
Background:
Congressman Carter helped champion 17 unique federal awards that have benefited New Orleans East and the Lower 9th Ward, besides other major awards to the City of New Orleans and the State of Louisiana that will support residents in these communities. These federal awards total up to $146 million of investments over the last three years.
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$4,116,279 CPF to City of New Orleans for the Lincoln Beach Access Bridge (FY 2024)
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$5,000,000 CPF to City of New Orleans for Morrison Road improvements (FY 2022)
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$751,631 to City of New Orleans from Department of Transportation Safe Streets for All Program
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$1,400,000 to KIPP East from Environmental Protection Agency Clean School Bus Program
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$822,000 to Water Institute of the Gulf from National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
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NEW ORLEANS, LA – Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) issued the following statement after the announcement that Irene Burrus passed away:
“I am deeply saddened to hear the news of Irene's passing. She was a dear friend whose kindness and generosity touched the lives of so many. As I reflect on her remarkable 101 years of life, I am reminded of the joy and wisdom she brought into every room she entered. Irene was truly the queen of Algiers, a title she wore with grace and pride. She was an active member of our community, serving on a number of boards and committees including Friends of the Algiers Courthouse, fundraising for the Algiers Charter School Association, the Military Wives Organization, the Old Aurora Neighborhood Association, and the Algiers Kiwanis Club. She was also a fierce advocate for women taking a larger role in government and business.
“Her presence was a constant source of comfort to those around her and I am honored to have known her and had her support throughout my career. I truly loved her and she truly loved me back! She lived her life fully and fearlessly. My thoughts and prayers are with her family and loved ones. May she rest in peace.”
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NEW ORLEANS, LA – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) joined Governor Jeff Landry (R-LA) to announce the launch of GUMBO 2.0. This program allows for the distribution of $1.355 billion in funding to support broadband access throughout Louisiana. This funding was made possible by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), which Congressman Carter proudly helped craft and voted for. The first round of funding for this initiative was announced in August, 2023.
“In an increasingly connected world, access to the internet is no longer a luxury – it is a necessity,” said Rep. Carter. “Louisiana's GUMBO program is a commitment to ensure no community is left behind in the digital age. It is building a stronger, more inclusive future for everyone. Today, we are leveling the playing field to guarantee that geography does not determine one's access to information and essential services.”
This initiative will expand broadband access to 140,000 locations—including 100,000 homes (60,000 of which are in rural parishes), 35,000 businesses, and 4,000 community anchor institutions such as schools, hospitals, and law enforcement agencies. GUMBO 2.0 will create 8 to 10 thousand new jobs, our GDP is expected to increase by $1.3 billion, and $2 to 3 billion in new revenue will be generated for Louisiana businesses.
“Today, we are one step closer to eliminating the digital divide in our state. GUMBO 2.0 will play a direct role in expanding access to health care, growing our state’s small businesses, providing opportunities for our citizens to engage in remote work, and integrating technology into our agricultural sector. When we win in broadband, our citizens win, our communities win, our economy wins, and we position our state to win. I am eager to see this program in action, and look forward to the economic impacts it will have on our state for generations to come,” said Governor Jeff Landry.
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NEW ORLEANS, LA – Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) released a statement following his wife Andreé “Ana” Carter’s promotion to Major General. She was pinned at a ceremony at the National World War II Museum by Lieutenant General Russel L. Honoré and by President Joe Biden aboard Air Force One on Tuesday, August 13, 2024.
“I’m extremely proud of my wife Ana Carter for reaching this historic rank. As the first woman in our nation’s history to serve as Commanding General, she is leading the way for generations of young girls who will come after her. This is an exciting day for the Carter family and the great state of Louisiana.”
Background
Andreé Carter is the Commanding General of the U.S. Army Civil Affairs and Psychological Operations Command (Airborne), headquartered at Fort Liberty, North Carolina. She had been the Commanding General of the 350th Civil Affairs Command in Pensacola, Florida. She is receiving her second star following nomination by President Biden and confirmation by the United States Senate on July 13, 2024.
A graduate of Wofford College in Spartanburg, South Carolina, Carter was commissioned in 1991. She worked in the battalion that oversaw the movement of equipment in Bosnia and was deployed to Iraq.
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EW ORLEANS, LA – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) joined President Joe Biden and First Lady Dr. Jill Biden to announce new Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health (ARPA-H) awards. This funding will help develop technologies that will allow surgeons to provide more successful tumor-removal surgeries for people facing cancer. Tulane University is receiving up to $22.9 million as part of the first cohort of eight institutions working on these projects.
The Cancer Moonshot was established more than two years ago with the goal of reducing the cancer death rate in the United States by at least half. Last March, Congressman Carter toured the Louisiana Cancer Research Center with Dr. Biden to highlight these initiatives.
“This investment emphasizes our commitment to advancing life-saving technologies,” said Rep. Carter. “Tulane’s pioneering work on the MAGIC-SCAN system is a leap forward in cancer treatment, enabling surgeons to detect residual cancer cells during surgery and potentially eliminating the need for repeated procedures. I am proud to join President Biden and Dr. Jill Biden in announcing this support, which will bring hope to millions of patients and families battling this devastating disease. This funding highlights the innovation happening right here in Louisiana. Ending cancer as we know it is a big goal, but it is one worth fighting for.”
In its first two years, ARPA-H has invested more than $400 million to fast-track progress on how we prevent, detect, and treat cancer. Today, the President and First Lady announced up to $150 million in ARPA-H awards to develop technologies that will allow surgeons to provide more successful tumor-removal surgeries for people facing cancer. These awards will support researchers from eight teams across the country who are pursuing innovative ideas as part of ARPA-H’s Precision Surgical Interventions (PSI) program.
“This announcement in support of Tulane’s cancer research by President Biden and Dr. Biden is a historic moment for Tulane,” said Tulane President Michael A. Fitts. “Tulane is a proud partner in supporting the goal of the Biden Cancer Moonshot. This advancement will save lives. The President and First Lady have been relentless champions in the battle to end cancer. Today, we are celebrating the results of their commitment.”
Background
Tulane University is developing a groundbreaking imaging system MAGIC-SCAN (Machine-learning Assisted Gigantic Image Cancer margin SCANner) to revolutionize cancer treatment. This advanced technology will allow surgeons to scan a tumor during surgery and determine within minutes if any cancerous tissue remains, potentially eliminating the need for repeated invasive surgeries. The system, designed to visualize individual cells on the surface of removed tumors, combines innovations in microscopy, automation, computing infrastructure, and machine learning. Researchers from Tulane, alongside collaborators from the University of Georgia and the University of Utah, will lead these efforts to make this high-resolution tissue scanner a reality within five years.
Learn more about Tulane’s MAGIC-SCAN here.
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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) and Congressman Mike Flood (R-NE) introduced the bipartisan Sustainable Aviation Fuel Information Act. This bill directs the United States Energy Information Administration (EIA) to include Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) on their weekly and monthly reports, consistent with other fuel types that the agency regularly tracks.
SAF is alternative jet fuel made from renewable and waste feedstocks that can reduce aviation greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by up to 94%, depending on the feedstock. SAF is a "drop-in fuel,” so it is compatible with existing engines and fueling infrastructure and can be made from several feedstocks, including agricultural waste, forestry residues, algae, and recycled cooking oils, among other ingredients.
“Aviation currently represents approximately 10 percent of our nation’s transportation-related greenhouse gas emissions,” said Rep. Carter. “Without coordinated action between government and industry, these emissions will continue to increase as more people and goods fly through our skies. Sustainable aviation fuel is an exciting, new green fuel with a proven record of success. I’m proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation to ensure America is on track to meet the growing demand for cleaner transportation and healthier communities. I'm committed to supporting innovative, eco-friendly aviation solutions like this.”
In July, the EIA stated that, “production capacity of SAF in the United States could increase from around 2,000 barrels per day (b/d) to nearly 30,000 b/d in 2024 if all announced capacity additions come online.” Globally, SAF production is expected to reach over 495 million gallons in 2024 – well over double global production in 2023.
“Nebraska is the second largest producer of biofuels in the nation and we’re constantly working to grow our bioeconomy,” said Rep. Flood. “Sustainable Aviation Fuel is an incredible growth opportunity that can help expand the biofuels industry and our rural economy. This commonsense legislation directs the EIA to start including SAF in data sets they publish, allowing stakeholders and industry to better understand how production is developing. Thank you to my colleagues, especially Congressman Carter, for stepping up and pushing to help include SAF in key reports as the industry takes off.”
“Farmers need new market opportunities to sustain success. We are excited about the prospect Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) presents for Louisiana farmers to contribute to our domestic fuel supply through crop production,” said Louisiana Farm Bureau President Richard Fontenot. “This is in addition to the safe and sustainable food supply we already provide. Congressman Carter's proactive legislation to get SAF on the map, in terms of accurate and unbiased data reporting, should help further build out framework for this rapidly developing technology and the market it offers. This would not only benefit our farmers, but all of Louisiana through job growth here at home. We greatly appreciate he and his colleagues’ foresight on this issue.”
“The Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Information Act is a tactful, practical solution that aligns with our commitment to growing our state’s all-of-the-above energy portfolio,” said Michael Hecht, President and CEO of GNO, Inc. “With promising Sustainable Aviation Fuel projects already underway in the Greater New Orleans region, this bill helps to ensure that our energy and aviation industries remain competitive on the global stage. We applaud Congressman Carter for his leadership and commitment to innovation and transparency.”
“Sustainable aviation fuel is a big opportunity for American bioethanol producers and our farmer partners. Reporting SAF production and including this data in EIA's regular reports is a simple step that will help the entire industry track its progress and identify investment opportunities. We’re grateful to Rep. Flood and Rep. Carter for introducing this bill, and for taking steps to secure America’s position as a leader in SAF production,” said Emily Skor, Growth Energy CEO.
“As we work to speed up the development and deployment of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), real-time production and supply updates from the U.S. Energy Information Administration will offer crucial insights. These updates will play a key role in effectively scaling up SAF across the country,” said Alison Graab, The Executive Director for the SAF Coalition.
“Transparent and timely market data are critically important to help the nascent SAF industry get off the ground. This legislation would ensure SAF producers and users have the information they need to make informed decisions and smart investments. The Renewable Fuels Association thanks Reps. Flood and Carter for their leadership on this issue and we strongly support their legislation,” said Jared Mullendore, Policy Counsel and Director of Government Affairs for the Renewable Fuels Association.
Background
The growth of SAF production and use is a major opportunity for lowering the aviation industry’s carbon footprint. Worldwide, aviation accounts for 2% of all carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions and 12% of all CO2 emissions from transportation. The international aviation industry has set an aspirational goal to reach net zero carbon by 2050. SAF presents the best near-term opportunity to meet these goals.
The Biden Administration’s Sustainable Aviation Fuel Grand Challenge, announced in 2021, set a goal 3 billion gallons of domestic SAF consumption in 2030 and 35 billion gallons in 2050. This straightforward, bipartisan bill would provide stakeholders with important information relating to SAF production, imports, and feedstocks.
The Sustainable Aviation Fuel Information Act has 5 original cosponsors including Reps. Salud Carbajal (D-CA), Chris Pappas (D-NH), Don Bacon (R-NE), Dina Titus (D-NV), and Hillary Scholten (D-MI) and is endorsed by the Louisiana Farm Bureau Federation, the Renewable Fuels Association, National Corn Growers Association, American Soybean Association, the SAF Coalition, Greater New Orleans Inc., American Sugar Cane League, National Corn Growers Association, Growth Energy, Renewable Fuels Nebraska, the Nebraska Soybean Association, and the Nebraska Corn Growers Association.
Read the full text of the bill here.
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