Brian K. Fitzpatrick

House Passes Fitzpatrick-Led Bipartisan Ukraine Support Act

Position: The representatives express support for continued military aid to Ukraine and sanctions on Russia, characterizing U.S. support as essential to Ukrainian sovereignty, American security, and deterrence of aggression.

Washington, DC – Today, Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-1), Co-Chair of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus, along with Representatives Gregory W. Meeks, Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee; Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05); Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), Co-Chair of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus; Bill Keating (MA-09), Ranking Member of the Europe Subcommittee; Don Bacon (NE-02); and Kevin Kiley (CA-03) issued the following statement on the passage of the bipartisan Ukraine Support Act, the first comprehensive legislation to support Ukraine and impose sanctions on Russia to pass the House in the 119th Congress. "Putin is counting on America to grow tired, divided, and distracted. Today, with a historic bipartisan vote, the House sent the opposite message," said Fitzpatrick, Co-Chair of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus. "Ukraine is fighting for its sovereignty and survival, but the stakes do not stop at Ukraine's borders. Standing with Ukraine is a matter of American security, allied strength, and moral clarity—and it tells the world that aggression will not be met with hesitation or retreat. From the start of Russia's illegal war of terror, I have worked to ensure America's policy is rooted in peace through strength: equipping Ukraine to win, holding Putin accountable, and ensuring brutality never becomes leverage. This legislation gives force to that principle, and I am grateful to my colleagues in the House who stood with us on the side of freedom. Now, the Senate must do the same." "Inaction on Ukraine ends now. Today's bipartisan vote to pass the Ukraine Support Act demonstrates that the House stands with the Ukrainian people and that we will hold the criminal Russian regime accountable for its illegal war. I thank my Democratic colleagues and my Republican colleagues who've co-sponsored this bill, without whom this vote would not have been possible. And I especially thank the Ukrainian American community and all those Americans standing with Ukraine, for their tireless efforts to see this bill move forward. Now the Senate must follow suit, and work with our bipartisan group in the House to deliver the most comprehensive package possible to the President's desk for his immediate signature" said Ranking Member Meeks. "Today's vote was a victory for Ukraine, for the United States, for freedom, and for international law. It was made possible because Democrats and Republicans came together behind an effort that is bigger than partisan politics – it's about whether our nation will hold firm to its ideals and stand up for democracy, and I thank my Republican colleagues who joined us. The people of Ukraine are demonstrating that they have what it takes to win this war and outlast what Vladimir Putin can throw at them. But they cannot do it alone. Europe has stepped up, and America has been a critical partner – but we have not approved a major Ukraine-assistance package since 2024. It's time for the Senate to follow the House and act quickly on this $8 billion in security assistance and broad, sweeping sanctions so Ukrainians can continue to push ahead toward victory," said Hoyer. "The Ukraine Support Act which the House passed today with Democratic, Republican, and Independent support was a choice between Liberty and Tyranny. Our Free World must stand tall against tyrants, not mollycoddle them. Liberty is not negotiable, It is fundamental," said Kaptur. "The war-torn people of Ukraine are not asking for charity, they're asking for US partnership with that of our closest allies in the European Union. Today we said loud and clear: we stand with Ukraine, we need sanctions on Russia, and we will always stand by our allies. I urge the Senate to take up this legislation with haste and help us reassure our allies around the world of American's unwavering commitment to Liberty loving people everywhere. If we do not, the next strategic reality we will face is defending our interests against an emboldened armed, expansionist Russia at a much, much higher cost." "The importance of Ukraine's success against Russia's war of aggression cannot be overstated. We should be assisting them because it is the right thing to do, but at the very least, we are obligated to do it in accordance with the Budapest Memorandum. Passage of the Ukraine Support Act would demonstrate the House's continued support for Ukraine and condemnation of Russia. Critically, this bill includes billions in additional military assistance and comprehensive Russia sanctions," said Ranking Member Keating. "I am proud to have co-led the introduction of this legislation and greatly appreciate the strong bipartisan support this bill received from Democratic and Republican members of the House. I urge the Senate to take it up so the United States can continue to support our ally Ukraine in their defense against Russian aggression." "Tonight, the House faced a Churchill vs. Chamberlain moment. Stand on the side of freedom and democracy, or show weakness to an invading thug who wants to restore Russian domination over a free people. Tonight, we chose Churchill," said Bacon. "In 2024, I visited Ukraine and witnessed firsthand the devastation and cruelty that Russia has inflicted on the Ukrainian people. That trip and the courage of the Ukrainians have bolstered my belief that America must continue to support Ukraine's fight against Russia's brutal invasion, and the bipartisan vote this evening proves that support still exists here in Congress. I strongly urge the Senate to take up and pass this legislation without delay to provide Ukraine the military aid it needs to win and impose tough sanctions that further isolate and punish Putin." "I provided the decisive signature to force a vote on the Ukraine Support Act because the time for Congress to act is now. Today, in a bipartisan way, we made it clear that the United States will continue to stand with the Ukrainian people and provide the material support necessary for their self-defense. We made it equally clear that Russia will pay a severe price for its unprovoked aggression and ongoing violence. This is the leverage needed for constructive negations to end this conflict. This is what is required for peace," said Kiley. Today's vote builds on Fitzpatrick's broader work to advance a Ukraine policy rooted in peace through strength: sustaining critical security assistance, increasing pressure on Putin's war machine, and ensuring any path to peace protects Ukraine's sovereignty and is accepted by the free and independent Government of Ukraine. As Co-Chair of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus, Fitzpatrick has helped lead bipartisan efforts to hold Russia accountable and confront the full scope of Putin's aggression, from battlefield brutality to attacks on civilians, religious communities, and abducted Ukrainian children. He has seen the stakes firsthand on the front lines of Ukraine, meeting directly with Ukrainian leaders, servicemembers, and civilians defending their country and their freedom. His leadership on the Peace Through Strength Against Russia Act, the Countering Russia's War on Faith Act, and the bipartisan discharge petition reflects a clear and consistent principle: America must equip Ukraine to win, impose consequences on Russia, and never allow authoritarian aggression to be rewarded. Permalink: https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/2026/6/house-passes-fitzpatrick-led-bipartisan-ukraine-support-act

Fitzpatrick Statement on Iran War Powers Resolution

Position: The representative voted in favor of a War Powers Resolution requiring congressional authorization for continued military operations in Iran, citing the legal requirement under the War Powers Act of 1973 that conflicts exceeding 60 days must be brought to Congress for approval.

When it comes to the conflict in Iran, these two statements of fact remain: 1) The world is a safer place after Iran's nuclear capabilities have been degraded, and; 2) We are a nation of the rule of law and three independent, co-equal branches of government. We must keep the world safe, and we must also follow the law. The War Powers Act of 1973 states that any conflict exceeding 60 days must be brought to Congress. Today was the second War Powers Resolution that was brought to the House Floor following the expiration of this 60-day clock. The law, as it is currently written, requires that the matter now be brought to Congress. That is why I voted in favor of today's resolution. We must follow the law. I previously authored and introduced my own War Powers Resolution that would comply with the War Powers Act of 1973, and that would also encourage, not discourage, cease-fires by tolling the 60-day clock to allow for negotiations. Until my Resolution is passed by Congress, or until the United States Supreme Court rules on the constitutionality of the War Powers Act of 1973, we must abide by the law as it is currently written. Permalink: https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/2026/6/fitzpatrick-statement-on-iran-war-powers-resolution

Fitzpatrick, Suozzi Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Stop Taxpayer Dollars from Funding DOJ’s “Anti-Weaponization Fund”

Position: The representatives oppose federal funding of the Department of Justice's Anti-Weaponization Fund, arguing that nearly $2 billion in taxpayer dollars should not be diverted to a discretionary compensation fund without clear congressional authorization, court approval, or transparent oversight.

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-1) and Congressman Tom Suozzi (NY-3) introduced the Bipartisan Transparency for American Taxpayers Act, legislation to prohibit federal funds from being used to pay any claims submitted to the Department of Justice's newly announced Anti-Weaponization Fund. The legislation comes one day after Fitzpatrick pressed Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche for answers on the fund's legal authority, funding source, eligibility standards, and lack of congressional oversight. The DOJ announced on May 18, 2026, that the U.S. Department of Treasury would direct $1.776 billion to an account for the sole use of the Anti-Weaponization Fund. In response, Fitzpatrick raised urgent concerns that nearly $2 billion in taxpayer dollars could be diverted into a discretionary compensation fund without clear congressional authorization, court approval, or transparent guardrails. The Bipartisan Transparency for American Taxpayers Act makes clear that no federal funds, including funds appropriated under Section 1304 of Title 31 of the U.S. Code, may be used for the payment of any claim submitted to the Anti-Weaponization Fund established by the Department of Justice on May 18, 2026. "Congress has a constitutional responsibility to protect taxpayer dollars and oversee federal spending. Yesterday, I called on the DOJ to explain where this money is coming from, who may receive it, and under what authority this fund was created. Today, we are acting," said Fitzpatrick. "The Bipartisan Transparency for American Taxpayers Act ensures federal funds cannot be used for this fund without the transparency, oversight, and legal safeguards the American people deserve. Taxpayer dollars will not become a discretionary payout fund. Transparency is not optional. Accountability is not negotiable." "This is a bipartisan bill to block the President's $1.7 billion slush fund to pay off January 6th criminals and other maladjusted minions! To allow it to continue would set a dangerous precedent," said Suozzi. "Costs are skyrocketing. Gas, groceries, utilities, healthcare—everything costs more! Instead of fixing those problems, the President seems fixated going around the Congress to settle personal scores and making Americans pay for it. I join Congressman Fitzpatrick in saying 'this is unacceptable!'" The full text of the legislation can be found here. Fitzpatrick's May 20 letter to Acting Attorney General Blanche can be found here. Permalink: https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/2026/5/fitzpatrick-suozzi-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-stop-taxpayer-dollars-from-funding-doj-s-anti-weaponization-fund

Fitzpatrick Helps Secure Major Bipartisan Victory to Expand Housing Supply and Lower Costs for PA-1 Families

Position: Fitzpatrick supports the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act, which expands housing supply, modernizes federal housing policy, and lowers housing costs through regulatory reform and community development initiatives.

Washington, DC— Today, Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01) helped lead passage of the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act, a sweeping bipartisan housing reform package to expand housing supply, modernize federal housing policy, strengthen community-based development, and restore affordability for working families in Pennsylvania's First District and across the nation. The legislation passed the House by an overwhelming bipartisan vote of 396 to 13 and now returns to the Senate for further consideration. The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act represents one of the most comprehensive federal housing reform efforts in decades. It directly addresses the structural drivers of America's housing shortage—outdated regulations, duplicative inspections, financing bottlenecks, underused properties, and barriers that slow local development. Earlier this year, Fitzpatrick helped advance the original House housing package, which included three of Fitzpatrick's housing priorities. The updated package passed today now includes a fourth Fitzpatrick measure, further strengthening the bill's focus on expanding supply, lowering costs, and helping communities turn vacant and blighted properties into affordable homes. The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act includes the following Fitzpatrick-supported provisions that will deliver for PA-1, including: "Housing affordability is one of the defining economic challenges of our time because it shapes something deeply American: whether families who work hard, save responsibly, and play by the rules can still build a stable life in the communities they call home," said Fitzpatrick. "Across Bucks and Montgomery Counties, I have sat down with realtors, home builders, lenders, local officials, and families who are living this challenge firsthand. Those conversations became the foundation of this work. We listened to the people closest to the problem, identified the barriers driving costs and limiting supply, and worked together to develop practical solutions that can actually move the needle." "Today's overwhelming House passage is a major step forward in that effort," Fitzpatrick continued. "The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act reflects the kind of two-party, common-sense leadership this moment demands: expanding supply, modernizing outdated federal barriers, restoring balance to the housing market, and giving communities the tools to turn vacant buildings into affordable homes. These reforms were shaped by real-world experience, built through bipartisan cooperation, and aimed at a clear purpose—lowering costs, strengthening neighborhoods, and keeping the promise of home within reach for working families. The House has acted with clear bipartisan resolve. Now the Senate must do the same." "Realtors are on the front lines of this housing crisis every day. We see young families priced out of starter homes, seniors unable to downsize, and working households competing in markets where supply has simply not kept pace with demand. When housing production slows, affordability slips further out of reach — and communities feel it," said Chris Beadling, PA-1 Constituent, Broker of Quinn & Wilson Realtors in Montgomery County, 2025 NAR Regional VP (Region 2), and Past President of Pennsylvania Association of REALTORS and Bucks County Association of REALTORS. "Congressman Fitzpatrick has been a longtime partner in addressing these challenges, working directly with Pennsylvania Realtors and local housing leaders to understand the regulatory delays, financing constraints, and outdated policies limiting housing growth. The Housing for the 21st Century Act takes meaningful steps to remove unnecessary barriers, modernize federal housing programs, and strengthen the ability of community banks to finance responsible local development. By expanding supply and empowering local lenders, this legislation will help increase housing opportunities and bring affordability back within reach for Pennsylvania families. We appreciate Congressman Fitzpatrick's longtime partnership, support, and commitment to advancing policies that support sustainable housing growth across our Commonwealth." Congressman Fitzpatrick has consistently led the charge on affordability—and it remains his top priority for Pennsylvania's First District. Earlier this year, along with his Co-Chair of the Problem Solvers Caucus, Representative Tom Suozzi, he introduced a comprehensive bipartisan Affordability Agenda that outlines more than 40 commonsense bills capable of delivering immediate relief across five critical areas of household budgets: health care, housing, energy, child care, and food. Each proposal in the framework has broad bipartisan support and is designed to pass both chambers of Congress — reflecting Fitzpatrick's belief that lowering costs for working families must rise above partisanship. In addition to the Housing for the 21st Century Act, his recent bipartisan efforts include: Permalink: https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/2026/5/fitzpatrick-helps-secure-major-bipartisan-victory-to-expand-housing-supply-and-lower-costs-for-pa-1-families

Fitzpatrick, Dingell Push Back on Proposed Rollback of PFAS Drinking Water Protections

Position: Fitzpatrick and Dingell oppose the Administration's proposal to roll back federal drinking water protections for PFAS chemicals, arguing that the rollback undermines public health and leaves communities exposed to contamination. They advocate for maintaining and strengthening PFAS drinking water standards rather than extending compliance timelines.

Washington, DC--Today, Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA-01) and Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06), Co-Chairs of the Congressional PFAS Task Force, raised concerns following the Adminstration's proposal to roll back federal drinking water protections for toxic "forever chemicals" known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS. The proposal would rescind limits on four PFAS chemicals under the nation's first-ever PFAS drinking water standard and give water systems two additional years to comply with limits for two others—potentially leaving communities exposed to contaminated drinking water for longer. "Safe drinking water should never be a luxury, a legal debate, or a question at the kitchen sink. For families facing PFAS contamination, this is about the water they pour into a glass, cook with, and give to their children. These forever chemicals are found in the blood of nearly 98% of Americans, and communities that did not create this pollution should not be forced to live with the risk or pay the cost of cleaning it up. America should be moving faster to get PFAS out of our drinking water—not giving families more years of uncertainty and harm. We will not stand by while protections are weakened and working families are left waiting. We will continue fighting to protect clean water, hold polluters accountable, and put public health ahead of the interests that created this crisis," said Fitzpatrick and Dingell. Today's letter marks the latest step in Fitzpatrick and Dingell's bipartisan effort to secure strong, enforceable protections for communities facing PFAS contamination. In June 2025, the lawmakers introduced legislation to put these safe drinking water regulations into law. The following month, they led 69 of their colleagues in urging the EPA to uphold the first-ever national primary drinking water regulation for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). A copy of the letter can be found HERE and text is below: Dear Administrator Zeldin: We write to express concerns surrounding the Agency's decision related to the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) rule. While we applaud efforts by the Administration to invest nearly $1 billion dollars in new funding to states to address PFAS in drinking water, potential for erosion of the SDWA must be taken seriously. PFAS contamination is a real and urgent public health crisis across our country, and this rollback only serves to undermine the core purpose of SDWA to ensure communities have access to safe drinking water. Nearly 98% of Americans have PFAS detectable in their blood, and as of March 2026, about 176 million Americans drink water contaminated with PFAS. Rolling back drinking water standards for PFAS will further the existing public health crisis our communities are already facing due to these forever chemicals. The finalized 2024 rule established an enforceable maximum contaminant level (MCL) standard of four parts per trillion for two of the most dangerous PFAS variants, PFOS and PFOA. It also regulated other times of PFAS, PFNA, PFHxS, PFBS, and GenX with an enforceable MCL standard of ten parts per trillion. It required that public water systems monitor for PFAS, notify the public of PFAS, and reduce PFAS in drinking water through phased-in approaches. EPA finalized its 2024 rulemaking in response to its own extensive scientific research that reflected the correlation of PFAS to high cholesterol, kidney cancer, decreases in birth weight, and other serious health risks. When issued, the EPA estimated that this rule would prevent PFAS exposure in drinking water for as many as 100 million Americans, prevent thousands of deaths, and reduce tens of thousands of serious PFAS-attributable illnesses. The finalization of the 2024 rule was an important step in the fight to keep forever chemicals out of our homes and communities and rescinding this standard means harmful PFAS contamination will continue to spread through drinking water. Safe drinking water should never be a luxury or a legal debate. For families facing PFAS contamination, this is about the water they pour into a glass, cook with, and give to their children. America should be moving faster to get PFAS out of our drinking water—not giving families more years of uncertainty and harm. We will not stand by while protections are weakened and working families are left waiting. We will continue fighting to protect clean water, hold polluters accountable, and put public health ahead of the interests that created this crisis. We encourage EPA to reconsider the dangerous rollback of its 2024 PFAS National Drinking Water Standard. Thank you for your attention to this matter and we look forward to your response Permalink: https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/2026/5/fitzpatrick-dingell

Fitzpatrick Statement on Iran War Powers Resolution

Position: The representative voted in favor of a War Powers Resolution requiring congressional approval for the Iran conflict because the War Powers Act of 1973 mandates that conflicts exceeding 60 days must be brought to Congress. The representative emphasizes adherence to existing law while noting support for an alternative resolution that would toll the 60-day clock during cease-fire negotiations.

When it comes to the conflict in Iran, these two statements of fact remain: 1) The world is a safer place after Iran's nuclear capabilities have been degraded, and; 2) We are a nation of the rule of law and three independent, co-equal branches of government. We must keep the world safe, and we must also follow the law. The War Powers Act of 1973 states that any conflict exceeding 60 days must be brought to Congress. Today was the first War Powers Resolution that was brought to the House Floor following the expiration of this 60-day clock. The law, as it is currently written, requires that the matter now be brought to Congress. That is why I voted in favor of today's resolution. We must follow the law. I previously authored and introduced my own War Powers Resolution that would comply with the War Powers Act of 1973, and that would also encourage, not discourage, cease-fires by tolling the 60-day clock to allow for negotiations. Until my Resolution is passed by Congress, or until the United States Supreme Court rules on the constitutionality of the War Powers Act of 1973, we must abide by the law as it is currently written. Permalink: https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/2026/5/fitzpatrick-statement-on-iran-war-powers-resolution

Ukraine Caucus Supports Ukraine Ceasefire, Calls on Russia to Demonstrate Good Faith

Position: The Congressional Ukraine Caucus supports Ukraine's ceasefire proposal and calls on Russia to accept and honor it in good faith, while opposing Russia's continued military aggression and conditional approach to peace negotiations.

Washington, DC – Today, Co-Chairs of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus, Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-01), Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09), Congressman Mike Quigley (IL-05), and Congressman Joe Wilson (SC-02) issued the following statement in response to Ukraine's ceasefire proposal and Russia's continued strikes that undermine any credible path to peace: "Ukraine has extended an olive branch: an immediate, temporary ceasefire grounded in the protection of human life and the pursuit of a just peace. In the face of Russia's continued aggression, this proposal reflects the moral clarity of a free people: willing to seek peace, unwilling to surrender sovereignty, and determined to defend the dignity of their nation. "For years, the world has watched Russia strike Ukrainian cities, energy infrastructure, and civilians while claiming to seek peace. Simultaneously, the Kremlin is only advancing a symbolic pause tied to its World War II Victory Day commemorations — an observance Dictator Vladimir Putin has increasingly weaponized as a tool of propaganda and imperial grievance. A ceasefire cannot be selective, conditional, or timed for political convenience. It must be real, verifiable, and honored in good faith. "Putin should accept and fully respect Ukraine's ceasefire beginning tonight. The choice before the Kremlin is clear: continue a war that has brought devastation to Ukraine and isolation to Russia, or take a meaningful step toward peace. "The lesson is not distant history. It is the test before us now. Europe once again faces a war of conquest—an effort to erase Ukraine's borders, extinguish its identity, and deny a free people the right to determine their own future. "History has shown where wars of aggression lead when the world looks away. It has also shown how they end: aggression rejected, sovereignty defended, and peace secured through strength. "We stand united— Democrats and Republicans — in support of Ukraine's sovereignty, in defense of international law, and in recognition of the immense sacrifices already made by the Ukrainian people. We honor those who have fallen resisting tyranny and fighting for Liberty on the continent of Europe, just as we remember the lives of the 420,000 Americans and countless millions who gave their lives to defeat an ideology based on hatred and domination eight decades ago. "The path to peace is open. The responsibility to take it rests with the Kremlin. And as one united front, we say clearly: America stands with the people of Ukraine." Permalink: https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/2026/5/langhorne-pa-19047

Fitzpatrick SEED Act Passes House, Sending Bipartisan Early Childhood Education Bill to Senate

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, the House of Representatives passed the bipartisan Supporting Early Childhood Educators' Deductions Act, or SEED Act, legislation led by Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-1) and Congressman Jimmy Panetta (D-CA) to correct an unfair gap in the tax code and support the early childhood educators who help shape children's futures during their most formative years. The SEED Act would amend the Internal Revenue Code to extend the existing educator expense deduction to eligible early childhood educators, allowing them to deduct unreimbursed classroom expenses such as books, classroom supplies, learning tools, and other materials they purchase for the children in their care. Under current law, K-12 teachers can claim this deduction, but pre-K and early childhood educators are excluded — even though many spend hundreds of dollars of their own money each year on the same kinds of classroom materials. By extending this deduction, the SEED Act delivers a commonsense measure of fairness and ensures early childhood educators are not penalized for investing their own money in the children and classrooms they serve. In Pennsylvania, more than 68,000 early childhood educators support young learners every day. They are among the first teachers in a child's life, helping build language, confidence, social development, curiosity, and the foundation for lifelong learning. Their work strengthens children, supports working families, and helps sustain the workforce that local communities and employers depend on. Watch Congressman Fitzpatrick speak on the House Floor in support of the bill here. "Early childhood educators are teachers in every sense of the word, and today the House took bipartisan action to treat them that way," said Fitzpatrick. "In working with early childhood educators across our community, I have seen the time, care, and dedication they pour into their classrooms, and the personal resources they invest to make sure children have what they need to learn and grow. To give every child a strong foundation, we must make sure the educators helping build that foundation have the support they need, and that is exactly what our effort is about: correcting an unfair gap, supporting the educators who have earned it, and investing in children during the years that matter most. Now the Senate should join us in standing with the teachers of our nation and getting this bill across the finish line." In March, the House Ways and Means Committee unanimously advanced Fitzpatrick's bipartisan, bicameral SEED Act, building momentum for today's House passage. The legislation now moves to the Senate, where Senators Michael Bennet (D-CO) and Susan Collins (R-ME) are leading the companion measure. "Early-childhood educators instill in our youth a love of learning and curiosity. Just like their K through 12 colleagues, they put in the long hours and often dip into their own wallets to provide educational materials for their classrooms," said Ways and Means Committee Chairman Jason Smith (MO-08). "Yet, unlike their K through 12 colleagues, they are not afforded the same tax deduction to help cover those expenses. The SEED Act ensures we acknowledge and reward the contributions of all of our educators. Representative Fitzpatrick has championed this cause for years, and I thank him for his work standing up for America's teachers." "Early childhood educators often reach deep into their own pockets to cover the cost of classroom materials for their students," said Panetta. "The SEED Act would allow pre-K teachers to claim the same tax deduction for those costs that is already available to those who teach K-12. My bipartisan legislation would ensure dedicated pre-K educators have the tools they need to help our children succeed. The House passage of the SEED Act is an important step, and I look forward to the work ahead to ensure that our bipartisan, bicameral legislation is signed into law." The full text of the bill is available here. The SEED Act builds on Congressman Fitzpatrick's longstanding record of fighting for early childhood education, working families, and the teachers who help give children a strong start. That work has been consistent in PA-1 and in Congress. Last year, when Bucks County's Head Start funding was put at risk, Fitzpatrick fought to protect it and helped secure the full five-year renewal. He has also worked to help unlock billions in education funding, guided by a clear mission: invest in children, empower educators, and strengthen schools. By extending the existing educator expense deduction to pre-K and early childhood educators, the SEED Act continues that work. It delivers a commonsense measure of fairness, strengthens the early childhood workforce, and supports children during the most formative years of their lives. With House passage secured, Fitzpatrick will continue working with bipartisan partners in the Senate to get the bill across the finish line. Permalink: https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/2026/4/fitzpatrick-seed-act-passes-house-sending-bipartisan-early-childhood-education-bill-to-senate

Fitzpatrick Leads Charge to Expose and Punish Russia’s Religious Persecution in Ukraine

Position: The release advocates for legislation requiring documentation of Russian religious persecution in Ukraine and authorizing presidential sanctions against perpetrators, framing religious freedom protection as a core U.S. foreign policy objective.

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (PA-1), Co-Chair of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus, introduced the Countering Russia's War on Faith Act — bipartisan, bicameral legislation to expose and punish Russia's systematic persecution of religious communities in Ukraine and Russian-occupied territories. Leading the effort with Fitzpatrick in the House are Representatives Joe Wilson (R-SC), Marcy Kaptur (D-OH), Don Bacon (R-NE), Mike Quigley (D-IL), and Steve Cohen (D-TN), with companion legislation introduced in the Senate by Senators John Kennedy (R-LA) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI). The legislation requires the Secretaries of State and Defense to jointly report on Russia's efforts to persecute, suppress, and violate the religious freedoms of faith communities in Ukraine and Russian-occupied territories. It also directs the President to impose sanctions on foreign individuals found to have engaged in those abuses. "Russia's war in Ukraine is not only an assault on sovereignty—it is a calculated, systemic assault on religious freedom. For Americans, the freedom to worship is among our most fundamental liberties, and we do not stand by when it is crushed by force. This legislation ensures these crimes are documented, perpetrators are identified, and real consequences follow. Peace through strength requires accountability, and the persecution of people of faith cannot be met with silence," said Fitzpatrick. "Russia targets and kills persons of faith as a matter of policy wherever it invades. War criminal Putin seeks to prevent free worship of all believers and crushes any faith not subservient to its state-run church and corrupt former KGB agent Patriarch Kirill or otherwise submit itself to repressive state control," said Wilson. "Believers in the temporarily occupied territories of Ukraine are targeted with particular ferocity. It is critical that we counter Russia's War on Faith." "Putin is a war criminal conducting genocide in Ukraine. He is also attempting to erase expressions of Ukrainian identity, including religious freedoms. This legislation makes plain that these human rights violations will be a focus of our foreign policy and that the United States will always defend religious liberty," said Cohen. "Russia's widespread religious persecution in Ukraine dates back centuries, and is a horrific reminder that this new war of occupation was never just about land, but about forcible Russification and the erasure of Ukraine's pluralistic and free way of life," said Kaptur. "This important legislation calls out the abuses committed by the Russian state and its agents against Ukrainian Christians, Jews, Muslims, and other faiths. Russia perversely portrays Ukraine as a persecutor of Christians, when it is Moscow that has destroyed over 600 churches, synagogues, mosques, and places of worship in Ukraine throughout this war. These new attacks are a shameful reminder of Russian pogroms and attacks on religious communities dating back centuries. The United States must hold these war criminals accountable and defend religious freedom and the right of all Ukrainians to worship as they choose." "Putin's brutal invasion of Ukraine is not only an attack on a country that seeks democracy, free markets, and alignment with the West, but also includes a deliberate campaign to suppress and persecute religious communities," said Bacon. "Countering Russia's War on Faith Act will ensure we fully document these abuses and hold those responsible accountable through sanctions. I'm pleased to join Rep. Wilson and my colleagues in this bipartisan effort to stand up for religious liberty and the Ukrainian people." "Vladimir Putin's brutal war on Ukraine is not just about violating its sovereignty, but erasing the democratic values Ukraine has embraced. He seeks to erase freedom of religion in Ukraine by disproportionately targeting places of worship and practitioners of any religion other than his own," said Quigley. "I am proud to cosponsor Rep. Wilson's Countering Russia's War on Faith Act to make it clear that those who burn churches, persecute religious communities, and try to erase religious diversity will be held accountable. The United States must lead with moral clarity by defending religious freedom and confronting Putin's abuses." "Religious liberty is not a suggestion in America – it's one of our founding promises protected by the Constitution and lived out every day by generations of freedom-loving Americans. Anyone with a brain larger than a single cell organism knows that Vladimir Putin does not respect nor share that view. The Countering Russia's War on Faith Act shines a bright light on Putin's religious persecution and responds with real consequences," said Sen. Kennedy. "Putin's murderous regime has repeatedly bombed places of worship, murdered clergy members, and persecuted Ukrainian communities not aligned with the Putin-allied Russian Orthodox Church. It's time for the U.S. to take a stand for religious freedom and explore sanctions against individuals engaging in these brutal human rights abuses in Ukraine," said Sen. Whitehouse. The full text of HR-8433 (S-4379) is available here. Since Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022, more than 600 churches, synagogues, mosques, and other religious sites have been damaged or destroyed, and more than 50 Ukrainian clergy members have been killed. In occupied territories, Protestant, Catholic, Crimean Tatar, and Orthodox Christian communities not aligned with the Russian Orthodox Church have faced raids, forced re-registration, detention, and criminal prosecution. Patriarch Kirill of Moscow has gone so far as to characterize the invasion as a "holy war," helping provide ideological cover for a broader campaign of religious repression and forced Russification. Congressman Fitzpatrick has been one of Congress's most consistent and outspoken advocates for the Ukrainian people and for a foreign policy rooted in strength, principle, and accountability. As Co-Chair of the Congressional Ukraine Caucus, he has not only led legislative efforts in Washington, but has engaged this fight firsthand — traveling to Ukraine, including areas near the front lines, to stand directly with those defending their country, their sovereignty, and their freedom of conscience. He has repeatedly made clear that peace cannot be built on appeasement, silence, or moral ambiguity. That same conviction is reflected in Fitzpatrick's broader legislative leadership, including his Peace Through Strength Against Russia Act of 2025 — comprehensive bipartisan legislation designed to intensify pressure on the Kremlin, force meaningful negotiations, deter further aggression, and ensure that any peace agreement is real, durable, and accepted by the free and independent Government of Ukraine. That legislation would impose sweeping sanctions on senior Russian officials, oligarchs, state-owned enterprises, and entities fueling Russia's defense, energy, and transportation sectors, while establishing a clear standard: sanctions can be lifted only if Russia fully ceases hostilities and enters into a peace agreement accepted by Ukraine and subject to congressional review. Together, the Countering Russia's War on Faith Act and the Peace Through Strength Against Russia Act reflect Fitzpatrick's clear and consistent view that Putin's war is not simply a territorial conflict — it is a broader assault on freedom itself: freedom of nationhood, freedom of conscience, freedom of worship, and freedom from authoritarian tyranny. And the United States has a responsibility to meet that assault with clarity, resolve, and consequences. Permalink: https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/2026/4/fitzpatrick-leads-charge-to-expose-and-punish-russia-s-religious-persecution-in-ukraine

Fitzpatrick Introduces NABTU-Built Energy Tax Credit Bill to Lower Costs and Power American Growth

Position: Congressman Fitzpatrick introduced legislation to extend expiring energy and efficiency tax incentives (179D and 45L) scheduled to expire June 30, 2026, arguing that policy certainty is necessary to support domestic energy infrastructure investment, lower costs, and sustain union jobs.

Washington, D.C.—Today, Congressman Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) introduced the American Energy Dominance Act— legislation developed in direct partnership with the North America's Building Trades Unions (NABTU) to restore key energy and efficiency tax incentives that help lower costs, strengthen domestic supply chains, drive long-term investment in American energy infrastructure, and support good-paying union jobs. Joining Fitzpatrick in introducing the legislation were Congressmen Mike Lawler (NY-17), Max Miller (OH-7), and Mike Carey (OH-15). Under current law, key incentives such as 179D and 45L are scheduled to expire on June 30, 2026. For capital-intensive sectors, a shortened policy horizon does more than disrupt planning—it raises the risk that critical projects are delayed, scaled back, or never built at all. When that happens, it is American workers, American employers, and American families who pay the price through slower growth, tighter energy supply, and continued cost pressure. At a moment when the country needs more capacity, more affordability, and more domestic strength, we cannot afford to make it harder to build. This legislation restores the certainty needed to move projects forward and help deliver a more affordable, secure, and American-made energy future. "If America wants to lower costs, strengthen its energy supply, and build with confidence for the future, then we need a policy framework strong enough to support the scale of that work," said Fitzpatrick. "That means certainty. When the rules are unstable, projects stall, hiring slows, investment hesitates, and the people counting on progress pay the price. The men and women of NABTU understand that better than anyone because they are the ones building America's future with their hands, skill, and grit. This bill is a pro-worker, pro-growth, pro-America solution that will help drive investment, strengthen domestic energy production, expand affordability, and ensure the next chapter of American growth is built here at home by American workers." "We thank Congressman Fitzpatrick for his continued dedication to providing America with the power it desperately needs. This legislation, reinforces a commitment to an all-of-the-above energy approach and will aid in building our nation's energy dominance in a way that supports hard working Americans with middle-class sustaining jobs," said NABTU President Sean McGarvey. "No one knows the rising cost of living better than a New Yorker. That's why we're giving homeowners, builders, and businesses the certainty they need to invest in energy efficiency, lowering utility bills, and supporting good-paying jobs. By extending key tax incentives, including the 179D commercial buildings deduction, the 45L new home credit, and investments in hydrogen production, we're helping deliver more reliable energy here at home," said Lawler. "Providing long-term certainty in our tax code is essential for American energy dominance," said Miller. "By extending these critical credits, we are ensuring that businesses and families have the stability they need to invest in lower-cost energy solutions, strengthening our domestic supply chains and keeping the United States competitive on the global stage." What the American Energy Dominance Act does: Together, these incentives provide more than tax relief—they provide a stable foundation for long-term American growth. By restoring the certainty needed to plan, finance, and build major projects, this legislation helps expand domestic energy capacity, strengthen supply chains, support skilled workers, and make costs more manageable over time. That is how America builds a stronger economy, a more secure energy future, and lasting opportunity here at home. Permalink: https://fitzpatrick.house.gov/2026/4/fitzpatrick-introduces-nabtu-built-energy-tax-credit-bill-to-lower-costs-and-power-american-growth