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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Tonight, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) released the following statement after voting against the disastrous Republican budget that fails to extend critical Affordable Care Act (ACA) Premium Tax Credits. This comes after Republicans slashedessential health care and nutrition programs in the “Big Ugly Law” that working families across Louisiana depend on:

“Tonight, I voted no on the Republican budget because it abandons the very people we were sent here to serve—working families, seniors, and children who depend on affordable health care.

“Not extending Affordable Care Act tax credits is unconscionable. These credits have been a lifeline for countless Louisiana families, helping them afford coverage in a time when the cost of living continues to climb. Without this extension, families will see their premiums skyrocket. For some, the price of a basic health plan could double—or even triple. That means more Americanswill face the impossible choice between seeing a doctor and paying the rent, between filling a prescription and putting food on the table.

“Health care is not a luxury. It is a fundamental human right. Cutting Medicaid, slashing support for the Affordable Care Act, and walking away from families in need is not fiscal responsibility;it’s a moral failure. I have spoken with Louisianians who are terrified about what this budget means for them. This budget doesn’t lower costs—it raises them. It doesn’t strengthen our communities; it weakens them.

“While I voted against this bill tonight, I am relieved that the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) was reauthorized temporarily. This should allow policyholders whose policies lapsedduring the Republican shutdown to renew their policies retroactively to October 1, 2025 at their current premium rates. This action follows bipartisan legislation I introduced to achieve the samegoal. However, this is a short-term solution as this bill only extends the NFIP to January 30, 2026. These flood insurance authorization extensions shouldn’t be tied to government funding, and I’ll continue to work toward long-term reauthorization. Families shouldn’t lose their coverage or face higher premiums because of political gridlock.

“I reject any legislation that abandons the health and well-being of the American people. We will continue to fight to ensure that every family, in every zip code, can access affordable, quality health care.”

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

“Today I learned that my very dear friend and colleague, Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman, will not seek reelection. Selfishly, I am saddened by this news — but I am also filled with joy knowing that she will now have the time to enjoy her husband, children, and grandchildren, who have shared her so generously with the people of New Jersey and the nation.

“Bonnie has been a trailblazer, a bridge builder, and a fearless advocate for justice. From her historic election as the first Black woman to represent New Jersey in Congress to her decades of service in the state legislature, Bonnie has embodied the very best of public service. Her leadership as Majority Leader of the New Jersey General Assembly, Chair of the New Jersey Democratic State Committee, and now as a senior voice on Appropriations and Budget has left an indelible mark on our nation’s conscience.

“On a personal note, I will deeply miss sitting beside her on the House floor — strategizing on votes, dissecting policy, and leaning on her wisdom and humor during long nights of debate. I’ll miss our “98% plus 2% formula” — our shorthand for finding the balance between passion and practicality in the fight to strengthen the American family. And I’ll miss her bright smile, her powerful moral compass, and yes, her occasional sweet treat that helped get us through those marathon sessions.

“Bonnie Watson Coleman’s name will forever stand among the giants who used their voice to lift others. She has been a North Star for equity, a champion for women and girls, a warrior for the working class, and a conscience for the Congress.

“My friend, you have served with grace, strength, and an unwavering commitment to what is right. I will miss your presence in the chamber, but I celebrate your legacy — and the new season of joy that awaits you and your family.

“With admiration, respect, and love,

Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr.

United States House of Representatives

Louisiana’s Second Congressional District”

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

“I am deeply disappointed in the Senate for abandoning the fight for affordable health care for working families.

“After seven long weeks of negotiation, the decision to walk away from extending Affordable Care Act tax credits is nothing short of unconscionable. This failure will force millions of Americans—teachers, laborers, seniors, and parents—to pay more for the care they depend on, and some will face the heartbreaking choice between seeing a doctor and paying the rent.

“Health care is not a luxury. It is a basic human right. The cost of living in America is already too high, and stripping away relief for working people only deepens the burden.

“I stand firmly with Leader Hakeem Jeffries and House Democrats in rejecting any legislation that abandons the health and well-being of our citizens. We must continue to fight until every American family has access to affordable, quality health care—because the promise of this nation must include the dignity of good health.”

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) and Congressman Mike Ezell (R-MS), introduced H.R. 5848, the NFIP Retroactive Renewal and Reauthorization Act, legislation to backdate reauthorization of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) to September 30, 2025, while extending the program’s authorization until December 31, 2026. This bill ensures that policyholders who plan to renew are not punished due to the lapse in NFIP reauthorization due to the Republican government shutdown.

Due to the ongoing shutdown, NFIP’s congressional authorization has lapsed — therefore no new flood insurance policies can be issued or renewed. Now that the 30-day grace period to renew policies has expired for some policyholders, they could face partial-risk assessments and higher rates unless Congress passes a retroactive extension.

“The lapse of the National Flood Insurance Program isn’t a partisan problem — it’s a people problem. Families shouldn’t lose their coverage or face higher premiums because of political gridlock,” said Rep. Carter. “The NFIP Retroactive Renewal and Reauthorization Act is about fairness and stability. No family should lose coverage—or be forced to pay higher premiums—because of a political stalemate in Washington. My bill restores flood insurance retroactively and ensures homeowners and businesses have protection when they need it most.”

This lapse threatens countless Louisiana families, delays home closings, and leaves homeowners uninsured in the middle of hurricane season. It also punishes families already struggling with rising premiums, potentially wiping out years of progress toward affordable coverage.

If Congress does not enact a retroactive reauthorization, any new or renewed policies will only take effect on or after the date the program is reinstated. This means policyholders could experience a lapse in coverage, leaving flood losses during that period uninsured.

Additionally, without retroactive authority, many policyholders will face significant premium increases. Under FEMA’s Risk Rating 2.0, existing policyholders transition gradually to full-risk rates, but lapsed policies must pay those rates immediately upon reauthorization. This lapse therefore threatens both the affordability and stability of flood insurance for Louisiana families.

This also comes at a time when insurance rates are already causing housing affordability issues in Louisiana.

“As evidenced by the ongoing lapse of NFIP, a long-term reauthorization is necessary for sustainability of the program and affordability for its policyholders.  This lapse now threatens the premium increase glidepath guaranteed to legacy NFIP policyholders who have played by the rules.  Our analysis of FEMA data shows that NFIP premiums under Risk Rating 2.0 are rising by over 100% on average and by at least 50% in 41 states.  Reauthorizing NFIP retroactively ensures that these glidepaths are retained, thus encouraging cost-burdened Americans to maintain coverage and mitigate our nation's risk,” said Michael Hecht, President & CEO of Greater New Orleans, Inc., on behalf of the Coalition for Sustainable Flood Insurance (CSFI).

“As CEO of the Home Builders Association of Greater New Orleans, I cannot overstate the urgency of extending the National Flood Insurance Program. Right now, thousands of families in Southeast Louisiana are on the brink of losing affordable flood coverage due to the government shutdown and the harsh realities of Risk Rating 2.0. If Congress does not act immediately, homeowners and small businesses will be forced into unaffordable premiums, putting their homes, livelihoods, and our entire region at risk. This bill is not just necessary—it is critical to prevent a wave of financial devastation and to preserve the resilience of our communities. We urge swift passage to protect Louisiana families before it’s too late," said Dan Mills, CEO of Home Builders Association of Greater New Orleans.

“The National Flood Insurance Program is a critical lifeline for American households to avoid economic ruin from flooding disasters. The private flood insurance industry may hold promise, but it is nowhere near ready to come close to providing the level of security the NFIP provides. It is imperative that the program be re-authorized and retroactively available to those whose policies lapsed during the shutdown so they don't end up re-rated and priced out of this important protection," said Amy Bach, Executive Director, United Policyholders.

“The federal government shut down has stopped purchases and renewals of all flood insurance policies through the NFIP. This has a far-reaching impact on many facets of the American economy, not just compromising the safety net of flood insurance, but also impacting real estate closings & risk management strategies. Now more than ever, American families are reliant on the protection offered by a strong, resilient National Flood Insurance Program. The American Policyholder Association strongly encourages the passage of the NFIP Renewal and re-authorization Act,” said Doug Quinn, Executive Director, American Policyholder Association.

Background:

The NFIP is a federal program administered 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.

Across the country, FEMA is barred from processing renewals or issuing new NFIP policies until the government reopens. The NFIP Retroactive Renewal and Reauthorization Act would reauthorize the NFIP through December 31, 2026, and include a retroactive renewal period to ensure families whose coverage expired during the shutdown can renew without penalty once the government reopens. The legislation also renews the program through 2026 to provide long-term stability and ensure continued congressional oversight of FEMA’s Risk Rating 2.0 system.

Reps. Carter and Ezell also introduced H.R. 2822, the National Flood Insurance Program Authorization Extension Act, in April of this year to avoid a lapse in program authorization resulting from a government shutdown. This bill would have extended the program through December 31, 2026.

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

Read the full bill text here.

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

“To add insult to injury, it appears that the Trump administration has now sunk to an all-time low — simply cruel and heartless.

“Reports indicate that the U.S. Department of Agriculture has issued a reminder to retailers prohibiting them from offering special discounts or assistance to families who rely on SNAP benefits during a lapse in federal funding. This decision does not reflect the compassion or decency that public service demands. It punishes those who already have the least and ties the hands of grocers who simply want to help their neighbors.

“At a time when working families are struggling to put food on the table, this directive sends the wrong message about our values as a nation. No rule or regulation should ever stand in the way of kindness. Leadership requires empathy and moral courage — especially in times of hardship.

“I call on the administration to immediately rescind this directive and allow grocery retailers the flexibility to serve their customers with dignity and compassion. Congress must also review whether this so-called “Equal Treatment Rule” has been twisted into an instrument of cruelty rather than fairness.

“Families in Louisiana’s Second District — and across America — deserve better. They deserve leaders who put people above politics and compassion above cold bureaucracy.”

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

“As the Congressman from New Orleans, I know a few things about historic properties. My district is home to some of the most iconic and culturally significant landmarks in the country. In New Orleans, we don’t just inherit history — we protect it, honor it, and keep it alive for generations to come.

“Walk through Tremé, one of the oldest Black neighborhoods in America, and you’ll feel the spirit of resilience and culture in every block. Stroll through the Garden District, where preservation safeguards beauty and history side by side. Stand in the Lower Ninth Ward, and you’ll see both the pain of loss and the power of rebuilding with care. Walk the French Quarter and you’re surrounded by living history — architecture, music, and soul that define our city. Cross the river into Algiers, one of the oldest communities in the state, and you’ll find neighborhoods that hold centuries of stories. In my hometown, these places aren’t just buildings or streets — they’re the beating heart of who we are.

“That’s why what’s happening at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue is more than irresponsible. It’s a national disgrace. The literal and symbolic dismantling of the White House under the reckless actions of Donald Trump is an assault on a shared national treasure. This isn’t just a house — it’s the People’s House. It’s where history has been written for generations.

“What’s being done isn’t just disrespectful — it violates the preservation regulations designed to protect historic sites in our nation’s capital. These rules exist so no one person, no matter their title, can treat the White House like personal property.

“The White House is not a private estate. It is the heart of our democracy. Its walls have witnessed wars, movements for justice, moments of progress, and times of national pain. They belong to the American people.

“In New Orleans, we know what it means to preserve what matters. We honor it. We fight for it. And when it’s threatened, we rebuild with respect and care. Our country owes the same commitment to the most historic home in America.

“This is bigger than architecture. It’s about respect for our institutions, for our shared history, and for the rule of law. I fully support efforts to hold those responsible accountable, stop any further damage, and protect the White House for future generations.”

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA), Congressman Mike Ezell (R-MS), and Congressman Marc Veasey (D-TX) introduced the Marine Fisheries Habitat Protection Act (H.R. 5745). This bipartisan bill promotes environmental conservation and responsible decommissioning of offshore oil and gas platforms. The legislation will enable additional federal support to facilitate the conversion of more retired oil rigs into artificial reefs, thereby preserving marine habitats and supporting the fishing industry.

"The Marine Fisheries Habitat Protection Act is a smart, science-backed solution that turns yesterday’s energy infrastructure into tomorrow’s marine sanctuaries,” said Rep. Carter. “By transforming retired offshore platforms into artificial reefs, we’re preserving critical habitat for Gulf marine life, promoting biodiversity, and supporting our recreational and commercial fishermen. This bipartisan legislation shows that energy policy and environmental stewardship don’t have to be at odds. When done responsibly, Rigs-to-Reefs is a win for conservation, a win for coastal communities, and a win for the future of the Gulf.”

Offshore platforms in the Gulf have long served as thriving habitats for marine life. In 1984, the National Fishing Enhancement Act was enacted to address increased interest and participation in fishing at offshore oil and gas platforms and widespread support for effective artificial reef development by coastal states. The Marine Fisheries Habitat Protection Act provides additional federal support for oil and gas operators and state agencies, including the Louisiana Department of Fish and Wildlife, to leave appropriate structures in place and convert them into permanent artificial reefs.

“At its core, the Marine Fisheries Habitat Protection program is a simple yet powerful idea,” said Rep. Ezell. “Instead of tearing down structures that have become vibrant marine ecosystems, we can repurpose them to benefit the environment, fishermen, and taxpayers alike. As someone who has fished in the Gulf my entire life, I can tell you that the best fishing is always near these rigs. When we remove them entirely, we’re not just losing a structure—we’re destroying entire ecosystems. This bill is a no-brainer for coastal communities, sportsmen, and marine life alike.”

“Today, I’m proud to co-lead the Marine Fisheries Habitat Protection Act with my colleagues Congressmen Ezell and Carter,” said Rep. Veasey. “Our legislation will help create a pathway for more rig conversions and bolster the overall program that is repurposing out-of-service offshore oil and natural gas production platforms into thriving areas for aquatic wildlife.”

“Offshore oil and gas platforms are the catalyst for teeming reef fish communities and offer recreational anglers consistent, reliable fishing destinations,” said Chris Horton, Senior Director of Fisheries Policy for the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation (CSF). “Far more than fish attractors, the value they provide for enhancing marine productivity and biodiversity is well documented, but they are quickly disappearing. We very much appreciate Representatives Ezell, Veasey, and Carter for their leadership to ensure we have the best opportunity to preserve these fishing meccas for future generations.”

"Turning decommissioned oil and gas platforms into artificial reefs supports diverse marine ecosystems and biodiversity, offering increased opportunities for recreational fishing and tourism," said Jason Schratwieser, President of the International Game Fish Association (IGFA). “These structures create crucial habitats for marine life and the IGFA views the Marine Fisheries Habitat Protection Act as a win-win-win for our domestic energy industry, sustainable fisheries, and the marine ecosystems that we rely on."

“There is arguably no fish habitat type as popular and productive as offshore oil and gas platforms in the Gulf of America,” said Mike Leonard, Vice President of Government Affairs at the American Sportfishing Association. “The Marine Fisheries Habitat Protection Act is a well-crafted solution to ensure these structures safely remain in place to continue providing ecosystem benefits that support the nation’s recreational fishing industry.”

Background

In 1984, Congress passed the National Fishing Enhancement Act (Public Law 98-623, Title II) due to increased interest and participation in fishing at offshore oil and gas platforms and widespread support for effective artificial reef development by coastal states. The Act recognizes the social and economic values in developing artificial reefs, establishes national standards for artificial reef development, provides for the creation of a National Artificial Reef Plan, and establishes a reef-permitting system.

The Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE) is responsible for permitting the placement and eventual removal of temporary facilities on the Federal Outer Continental Shelf (OCS). When an OCS Lease expires and/or development and production operations cease, companies are obligated to decommission and remove their facilities and clear the seabed of all obstructions. BSEE responded to coastal states' concerns about losing the marine life that had developed on and around these temporary oil and gas structures by adopting a national Rigs-to-Reefs policy.

To participate in the BSEE Rigs-to-Reefs program, a coastal state must have an approved, state-specific artificial reef plan. All five Gulf Coast states have approved artificial reef plans: Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas. Louisiana and Texas are the primary participants in Rigs-to-Reefs since most platforms are installed offshore of those two states.

The Marine Fisheries Habitat Protection Act amends the National Fishing Enhancement Act to require a federal assessment of the relationship between offshore infrastructure and marine ecosystems to determine whether converting to an artificial reef is appropriate. It also amends the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act to provide flexibility within the decommissioning process to encourage greater participation in state-run rigs-to-reefs programs while ensuring the safety of the environment and fisheries. This process helps mitigate the environmental impact of full platform removal while conserving vital fishing grounds. The bill maintains the requirement that any associated wells must be plugged and sealed just as they would be if the platform were to be towed to shore and scrapped on land.

Facts and Figures:

• NOAA estimates that fish densities are 20 to 50 times higher around energy infrastructure in the Gulf than in open water. Infrastructure removal will adversely affect fishery health. This legislation will allow states to keep energy infrastructure as artificial reefs to allow these critical habitats to thrive.
• Energy infrastructure serves as popular commercial and recreational fishing destinations. A 2020 BOEM study estimates that 48% of Gulf amberjack biomass is associated with energy infrastructure.
• A typical four-leg structure provides two to three acres of habitat for hundreds of marine species.

The Marine Fisheries Habitat Protection Act is endorsed by the American Sportfishing Association, Bonefish & Tarpon Trust, Center for Sportfishing Policy, Coastal Conservation Association (CCA), Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation, International Game Fish Association, National Professional Anglers Association, and Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership.

Read the full bill text here.

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

“As both a Member of Congress and an adjunct professor of political science, I view the current state of House leadership with deep concern — not simply as political dysfunction, but as a direct threat to the constitutional order of our nation.

“The framers of our Constitution designed a system rooted in checks and balances, ensuring no single branch could dominate the others. The House of Representatives — the people’s branch — was never intended to be paralyzed by partisanship or personal ambition. Yet that is exactly where we find ourselves today.

“When Congress fails to act, power doesn’t vanish — it shifts. And when that power shifts to the Executive Branch without meaningful oversight, we weaken the very structure of our democracy. A non-functioning House hands the President unchecked authority, creating the kind of imbalance the framers explicitly sought to prevent.

“This is not an abstract concern. We have now been out of session for more than 30 days. A duly elected Member of Congress remains unsworn, blocked from taking their oath and representing their constituents. That denial of representation is unacceptable and undermines the very foundation of democratic governance.

“But the consequences go far beyond constitutional principle. Real families are being hurt. Medicaid beneficiaries face growing uncertainty. Millions of Americans who rely on ACA tax credits are left in limbo. SNAP recipients are at risk of losing access to basic nutrition support if the shutdown persists. These are not political talking points — these are real lives, real families, and real communities on the line.

“This is not about party politics. It is about duty — and the oath every Member of Congress swears to defend the Constitution. When the House majority fails to uphold its basic responsibilities, it is more than a failure of leadership; it is a betrayal of that solemn oath.

“I urge my colleagues to put country before party, governance before gridlock, and democracy before dysfunction. History will judge this moment — and so will the American people.”

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressmen Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) and Mike Ezell (R-MS), co-chairs of the Bipartisan Congressional Flood Resilience Caucus, sent a letter to Speaker Mike Johnson and Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries urging immediate action that addresses the lapse in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). The Members emphasized that NFIP is a lifeline for homeowners, small businesses, and entire communities who are vulnerable to flooding.

“In Louisiana and Mississippi, this isn’t abstract, it’s our constituents’ daily lives. Our families live in coastal and river communities where flood insurance is not a luxury; it’s a necessity. This lapse puts thousands of homebuyers, sellers, and small businesses in limbo. It slows down closings, reduces economic activity, and leaves families exposed,” the Members wrote.

A lapse in the program’s authorization means new policies cannot be issued, existing policies cannot be renewed, and real estate transactions in flood-prone areas may stall, leaving homeowners and businesses vulnerable. 

“The lapse of the National Flood Insurance Program isn’t a partisan problem — it’s a people problem. Families in Louisiana and across the country are now caught in the middle of uncertainty they should never have had to face. Flood insurance is not a luxury; it’s a lifeline for homeowners and businesses. I’m urging Congress to take swift action to restore the NFIP and provide the stability our constituents deserve. Every day of delay means more families and small businesses are left exposed — we must act now,” said Rep. Carter.

“Every day that the National Flood Insurance Program remains lapsed, families on the Coast are left wondering if they’ll be able to protect their homes,” said Rep. Ezell. “I’ve seen what flooding can do to a community—it can wipe out decades of hard work in a single storm. We need to get this program back on track now so families and small businesses aren’t left exposed.”

Read the full letter here.

Background

The NFIP is a federal program administered 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. 

Reps. Carter and Ezell introduced H.R. 2822, the National Flood Insurance Program Authorization Extension Act, in April of this year to avoid a lapse in program authorization resulting from a government shutdown. This bill would extend the program through December 31, 2026. 

He is joined on the Bipartisan Congressional Flood Resilience Caucus by Reps. Lizzie Fletcher (D-TX), Randy Weber (R-TX), and Congressman Mike Ezell (R-MS).

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WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) and Jared Moskowitz (D-FL), Co-Chairs of the Bipartisan Congressional Disaster Preparedness & Recovery Caucus, introduced the Federal Emergency Management Continuity Act (H.R. 5780). The bill would require the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to continue obligating and disbursing disaster relief funding during this and any future federal government shutdowns.

"I'm proud to support this critical legislation that ensures FEMA will continue delivering vital disaster relief and recovery assistance without interruption — even during government shutdowns,” said Rep. Carter. “Natural disasters and emergencies don’t wait for politics, and neither should our response. This bill safeguards the continuity of essential operations and protects the dedicated FEMA employees who make disaster recovery and response possible, ensuring that communities in crisis continue to receive assistance despite dysfunction in Congress.”

Under the bill, resources available in the Disaster Relief Fund would continue to be obligated and dispersed for covered programs during any lapse in federal appropriations. FEMA employees necessary to carry out such disbursements would not be subject to furlough or reduction in force due to a shutdown.

Appropriations made under the Disaster Relief Fund allow FEMA to support eligible response and recovery efforts associated with domestic major disasters and emergencies, as directed by the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Management Act.

“During a government shutdown, communities hit by disaster shouldn’t have to worry that the resources they’re counting on to recover will go undelivered,” said Rep. Moskowitz. “With this bill, families and businesses can have confidence that the funds they were promised will still be on their way, no matter what’s happening in Washington. Their recovery shouldn’t risk being put on hold just because Congress can’t do its job.”

Read the full bill text here.

Background:

The Bipartisan Congressional Disaster Preparedness & Recovery Caucus works across the aisle to advance legislation and policies that provide efficient, equitable relief for disaster survivors and promote measures that pave the path for impacted communities to make a full recovery. They also advocate for disaster preparedness measures and programs that help save lives, while readying America’s communities for the disasters ahead.

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NEW ORLEANS, LA – Today, Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (D-LA) released a statement following the announcement that Louisiana families will not receive SNAP benefits for the month of November due to the ongoing Republican federal government shutdown. This threatens the livelihoods of Louisiana families who rely on SNAP to feed their children and seniors—especially as the holidays approach:

“Taking away SNAP benefits from Louisiana families during the month of Thanksgiving is cruel. Yet our counterparts refuse to come to work and do their jobs to work with Democrats and keep the government open. The result is that hardworking families, seniors, and children in every parish across Louisiana are paying the price for Washington’s dysfunction.

“While organizations like Second Harvest are stepping up to meet the moment, no food bank can replace the essential lifeline that SNAP provides. These community partners are an incredible resource, but the federal government has a moral obligation to ensure that every family can put food on the table. It’s time to get back to Washington and do the right thing—reopen the government and restore these benefits immediately.”

Background

Yesterday, Congressman Carter spent the morning volunteering with Second Harvest Food Bank, helping to pack meals for families struggling with food insecurity—including federal workers now furloughed due to the shutdown. Over 800,000 Louisianians, roughly 17% of the state depend on SNAP benefits each month to afford groceries. The suspension of November benefits would disproportionately harm children, seniors, and low-income workers, especially in rural and urban communities already facing high food insecurity rates.

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

“I have been providing food to TSA employees at New Orleans International Airport during this government shutdown because it’s the right thing to do. While these public servants are not getting paid, the least I can do is buy them some lunch. This week, they received an email saying that they ‘can’t accept donations from political figures.’ Republicans shut the government down and forced these public servants to work without pay. Now, they are depriving them of basic human kindness. New Orleans, let’s show up for our TSA workers. Let’s all bring them lunch.”

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