Shomari Figures

Figures Statement on SCOTUS Decision in Louisiana v. Callais

Position: Congressman Figures expresses concern that the Supreme Court's decision in Louisiana v. Callais will make it harder to prove racial discrimination in redistricting cases and will likely lead to dilution of Black voting power, particularly in Southern states. He calls for vigorous enforcement of the Voting Rights Act and encourages voter participation.

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Shomari C. Figures issued the following statement after the U.S. Supreme Court issued a decision in Louisiana v. Callais: “Although today's decision does not make changes to Alabama’s current congressional districts, it has made proving future racial discrimination in redistricting cases significantly tougher. It will lead to states, primarily in the South, launching immediate efforts to redraw districts in ways that will dilute the impact of Black voters and drastically reduce the number of realistic opportunities to elect Black members to Congress. This is unfortunate, especially in Alabama, given the role that brave men, women and children played in this State in spearheading the Voting Rights Movement. “While Alabama's congressional district lines currently remain in place until after the 2030 census, I hope that courts will vigorously enforce the Voting Rights Act across the country. The fight for fair representation continues, so now more than ever, it is critical that every American get involved, get registered to vote, and get out to vote.” Issues: Congress

Figures, Ezell, Carter, Higgins Introduce Bipartisan Offshore Parity Act to Expand Gulf State Boundaries

Position: Representatives introduce bipartisan legislation to extend offshore jurisdiction boundaries for Alabama, Louisiana, and Mississippi from three to nine nautical miles, matching Texas and Florida, to increase state control over energy and marine resources.

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Representatives Shomari Figures (AL-02), Mike Ezell (MS-04), Troy A. Carter, Sr. (LA-02), and Clay Higgins (LA-03) introduced the Offshore Parity Act, bipartisan legislation to establish equal offshore boundaries for Alabama, Louisiana, and Mississippi —bringing them in line with Texas and Florida. Under current law, Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana, have jurisdiction over three nautical miles offshore, while Texas and Florida maintain nine nautical miles. The Offshore Parity Act would extend the boundaries of Alabama, Louisiana, and Mississippi to nine nautical miles, providing greater access to energy and marine resources and increasing state-level control. "There's no reason Alabama should have less access and control of our shores than Texas and Florida have over theirs," Figures said. "This bipartisan bill levels the playing field by making a commonsense update that ensures all gulf states have equal offshore boundaries." “For too long, Mississippi and our Gulf Coast neighbors have operated under an outdated and unequal system,” Ezell said. “This bill is about fairness. Expanding our offshore boundaries will strengthen our economy, support energy production, and give our state the same opportunities already afforded to Texas and Florida.” “This is a critical step toward equality, ensuring that Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama have the same authority over their waters as Texas and Florida,” said Carter. “This bill will empower us to manage our energy resources, protect our coastal communities, and strengthen our fisheries—securing economic benefits for our states.” “This bill ensures that states are on equal footing regarding offshore boundaries,"Higgins said. "The expansion from three to nine miles of state waters would provide Louisiana with greater control and economic benefit from its offshore resources. My office will continue to advocate for our coastal communities and industries." The Offshore Parity Act proposes amendments to the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act and the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act to reflect the expanded boundaries and align fisheries and resource management accordingly. This legislation builds on prior efforts introduced in the previous Congress and continues longstanding advocacy from Gulf Coast states seeking equal treatment under federal law. The current disparity dates back to the Submerged Lands Act of 1953, which granted Texas and Florida expanded offshore boundaries while limiting Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana to three nautical miles. By establishing parity, the bill is expected to enhance economic development, increase state revenues, and provide greater local control over coastal resources. ###

Figures Introduces “Rural Futures” Package Ahead of Farm Bill Vote

Position: Congressman Figures introduced a four-bill package to protect SNAP funding for states unable to meet cost-sharing requirements, establish low-interest loans for struggling rural hospitals, improve farmland retention through land-grant college support, and expand veterinary education funding at historically Black universities.

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Shomari C. Figures (AL-02) introduced a “Rural Futures” package, four bills aimed at protecting SNAP, providing financial assistance to rural hospitals, improving farmland retention, and expanding workforce development in rural communities. This package is cosponsored by Representatives Joyce Beatty (OH-03), Terri Sewell (AL-07), and Bennie Thompson (MS-02). Under the Republicans’ budget bill, states could possibly eliminate the SNAP program if they cannot or do not meet the new cost sharing requirements. Figures’ Save SNAP Act would ensure that federal SNAP dollars still go to the states in the event states cannot meet the new requirements. Figures also introduced the Rural Health Resilience Act, which creates a low-interest loan program for rural hospitals that are struggling financially. “I’m introducing the Rural Futures package because we need commonsense solutions for real problems impacting our districts,” said Figures. “Republicans continue to push policies that do more harm than good for our constituents. That is why I am fighting for reforms to help rural America receive the federal investment and attention they deserve.” The Rural Futures package includes the following bills: Save SNAP Act of 2026 Figures’ bill would protect SNAP by creating an exception for states that are unable to meet the new cost-share requirements to still receive the federal portion of SNAP funding. Congresswoman Janelle Bynum (OR-05) joined Figures in introducing this legislation. Rural Health Resilience Act of 2026 This bill establishes a low-interest loan program to help rural health centers avoid closures or reductions in essential services, preserving access to care in underserved areas. In Alabama, where many rural communities already face long travel times and limited provider options, this support would provide a new funding opportunity to help keep local clinics and hospitals open so families can continue accessing care close to home. Congresswoman Bynum also joined Figures in introducing this bill, which is endorsed by the National Rural Health Association, Alabama Hospital Association, and the National Association of Rural Health Clinics. HARVEST Act (Heirs’ Agricultural Resources, Viability, Education, and Succession Transfer Act) This bill requires a comprehensive report on opportunities to expand the role of land-grant colleges and universities in providing education and technical assistance related to heirs’ property, improving land retention and generational wealth in agricultural communities. Figures is joined by Congresswoman Beatty (OH-03) in introducing this bill, and it is included in the text of the 2026 Farm Bill. Veterinary Education Equity Act This bill prioritizes 1890 land-grant institutions like Tuskegee University—the only HBCU with a veterinary school in the South—in awarding of grants for veterinary education. By increasing support for faculty recruitment, modern training facilities, research opportunities, and student scholarships, the bill would strengthen the pipeline of veterinarians entering the workforce. It would also help address shortages in rural and underserved communities, where veterinarians are critically needed for livestock health, food safety, public health preparedness, and companion animal care. The Rural Futures package is endorsed by multiple organizations, including the Rural Coalition, Tuskegee University, Feeding the Gulf Coast, the Alabama Rural Health Association, and The Alliance to End Hunger. “Rural Coalition applauds Representative Figures for advancing a policy vision for rural communities that places people at the center,” said Lorette Picciano, Executive Director of Rural Coalition. “The Rural Futures package of legislation announced today does just that, proposing meaningful policies to empower 1890's Land Grant universities to address heirs property issues and support land retention and generational wealth and to expand career opportunities while mitigating rural veterinary shortages. The package also protects access to food assistance and provides emergency assistance to rural health centers at risk of closure. We look forward to continue working with Representative Figures in advancing public policies beneficial to rural communities and food systems especially in places that need it most.” "The National Association of Rural Health Clinics applauds Representative Figures leadership on the Rural Health Resilience Act of 2026, recognizing and addressing the pressing financial challenges of the 5,700+ Rural Health Clinics and other providers across the country," said Sarah Hohman, NARHC's Director of Government Affairs. "This opportunity for direct, tangible support is essential in allowing our providers to do what they do best - maintain access to essential services in rural communities." “Feeding the Gulf Coast supports the Rural Futures Package as a comprehensive approach to strengthening rural communities, recognizing the critical intersection of agriculture, food access, and health,” said Michael Ledger, Feeding the Gulf Coast President & CEO. “We are particularly supportive of efforts to protect access to SNAP, strengthen rural health infrastructure, and ensure federal nutrition programs continue to serve as a reliable bridge for families during times of need. The stakes for states like Alabama are significant. We share the concerns of our collaborators serving Alabamians, particularly regarding SNAP penalties tied to state payment error rates. Penalties are not an effective way to improve performance if states are not given a reasonable opportunity to strengthen systems and improve accuracy. Implementation of these penalties should be delayed to allow that time and opportunity. When a program as critical as SNAP is put at risk, the consequences extend far beyond a budget line. They place added pressure on children, seniors, and hardworking families, while also impacting rural communities and the local retailers that depend on SNAP’s stability.” “Feeding Alabama is in full support of the Save SNAP Act of 2026 to ensure the continued stability of the SNAP program in our state,” said Laura Lester, Feeding Alabama CEO. “Recent changes under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act have shifted a significant cost burden from the federal government to states, creating real risk for programs like SNAP in Alabama. Without a workable solution, our state could face difficult decisions that threaten access to this critical support, leaving thousands of children, families, and seniors without enough to eat. We saw a glimpse of this impact during last fall’s government shutdown, when even a short disruption to SNAP created immediate strain on families and the charitable food network. For every one meal provided by the Feeding Alabama network of food banks and pantries, SNAP provides nine. This program is essential not only for the people it serves, but also for the strength of our local economies. In Alabama, nearly 5,000 authorized retailers participate in SNAP. Any significant reduction in the program would have serious consequences, especially for rural grocers working every day to serve their communities.”

Figures, Hill, Adams, McCormick Introduce HBCU Research Capacity Act to Expand Access to Federal Research Funding

Position: The representatives support legislation establishing a federal clearinghouse to improve HBCUs' access to federal research funding and reduce barriers to grant opportunities.

WASHINGTON – Congressman Shomari C. Figures (AL-02), along with House Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) Caucus Co-Chairs Rep. French Hill (AR-02) and Rep. Alma Adams (NC-12) and Caucus member Rep. Richard McCormick (GA-06), introduced the HBCU Research Capacity Act on Tuesday. The legislation is the House companion to S. 4167, introduced by Sen. Katie Britt (R-Ala.) and Sen. Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.) on March 24, 2026. HBCUs are cornerstones of American higher education, producing a disproportionately large share of Black STEM graduates and playing an outsized role in building the nation's workforce, yet they receive less than 1% of the roughly $60 billion in federal research and development funding allocated to colleges and universities each year. The HBCU Research Capacity Act fixes that by establishing a federal clearinghouse giving HBCUs a centralized, regularly updated source of federal grant opportunities across agencies, along with best practices for building research capacity and stronger coordination to reduce longstanding barriers to access. "HBCUs have a long-standing track record of making significant contributions to our nation’s economy and workforce despite being consistently underfunded,” said Figures. “With Alabama being home to the most HBCUs in the nation, this bill is a game-changer for the institutions in my state at the forefront of research and development because it creates a one-stop shop for all federal research funding opportunities. I'm proud to join my colleagues in introducing this bipartisan legislation, and I will continue fighting for HBCUs to receive the resources they need to continue training and educating the next generation of leaders, researchers, and scholars.” "Historically Black Colleges and Universities, including the four we are blessed to have here in Arkansas, have been a source of opportunity and innovation for generations," said Rep. Hill, Co-Chair of the Congressional Bipartisan House HBCU Caucus. "Despite their outsized contributions, HBCUs receive a fraction of the federal research funding available to them. The HBCU Research Capacity Act takes a practical step toward changing that by ensuring these institutions have the information and tools they need to compete for federal dollars and continue fulfilling their vital mission for generations to come." "HBCUs have always punched above their weight. HBCUs contribute nearly $16.5 billion to the economy every year despite receiving less than 1% of federal research funding. That gap isn't a reflection of merit, it's a reflection of decades of systemic underfunding,” said Rep. Alma Adams, Founder and Co-Chair of the Congressional Bipartisan HBCU Caucus. “The HBCU Research Capacity Act will help by giving our institutions a clear path to federal grant opportunities. I'm proud to champion this House companion with Representatives Hill, McCormick, and Figures and alongside Sen. Rev. Warnock and Sen. Britt in the Senate to ensure HBCUs receive the funding they have earned." “The time to act is now if we want to keep America leading in the world of STEM. Our nation’s HBCUs are producing some of the brightest minds in science and technology, even as they face real funding challenges,” said Rep. Richard McCormick. “I’m proud to co-sponsor the HBCU Research Capacity Act that ensures these students can stay ahead in the global technology race, which starts with investing in our own talent.” Background The HBCU Research Capacity Act would: Establish a federal clearinghouse to provide a centralized source of information on federal grant opportunities available to HBCUs. Ensure HBCUs receive consistent and timely updates on research and development funding opportunities across federal agencies. Provide best practices and guidance to help institutions strengthen research capacity and improve competitiveness for federal grants. Encourage coordination across key federal agencies to better align funding opportunities and reduce barriers to access. Promote transparency and accountability through regular reporting to Congress and participating institutions. Direct agencies to review grant programs and identify gaps in support for HBCU participation. Issues: Congress Education

House Passes Figures’ Bipartisan Made in America Jobs Act to Increase Domestic Jobs

WASHINGTON – On Tuesday, the U.S. House of Representatives passed Reps. Shomari C. Figures’ (AL-02) and Jeff Hurd’s (CO-23) bipartisan Made in America Jobs Act of 2026 which would grant eligibility to projects that help relocate foreign jobs to the United States. “This is a commonsense, bipartisan bill that incentivizes companies and corporations to bring jobs back to America,” said Figures. “I’m proud of this bipartisan push to give communities, especially rural areas in Alabama’s 2nd District, more economic opportunities.” In 2024, Congress reauthorized the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) for the first time since 2004. This reauthorization made significant changes to EDA by giving the agency the tools and resources it needs to support local economic growth and success in the global economy. The Made in America Jobs Act builds on this progress by expanding grant eligibility to projects that will relocate jobs from overseas back to the United States. “Communities across Colorado’s Third District understand the importance of building things here at home,” said Hurd. “The Made in America Jobs Act is about giving local leaders the tools they need to compete, attract investment, and create jobs in their own communities. This is a practical step toward strengthening our domestic supply chains and supporting long-term economic growth, particularly in rural America. With the passage of this bill in the House, we are moving forward with a solution that prioritizes economic opportunity, strengthens American industry, and supports communities across the country.” The bill now advances to the Senate for consideration. ### Issues: Economy

Figures Secures Delayed Closure of Tuskegee Dialysis Center

WASHINGTON – Following a request from Congressman Shomari C. Figures (AL-02), Fresenius Kidney Care has agreed to delay plans to close a dialysis center in Tuskegee, AL until May 17, 2026. Figures made the request after outreach last month from Tuskegee Mayor Chris Lee who indicated Fresenius planned to close the center in 30 days. “The people in Tuskegee who need dialysis cannot afford to miss a treatment or travel long distances multiple times a week,” said Congressman Figures. “I’m grateful that Fresenius worked with us to delay this closing, but the fact remains that this will leave a tremendous gap in the health care system in Macon County. We will continue to explore long-term solutions for dialysis treatment. I encourage all impacted patients to ensure that they have a care plan in place to continue to receive this life-sustaining treatment.” Fresenius has assured Congressman Figures that the dialysis center will not close before May 17, 2026. Fresenius also confirmed that it will ensure all patients from Tuskegee have new care plans at nearby facilities, including transportation for those who qualify and already receive it. Issues: Health

Figures Secures Over $3M for Montgomery Region Projects

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Shomari C. Figures (AL-02) announced over $3 million for two community projects in Montgomery, Alabama. Specifically, he secured $2 million for the Alabama Capital Maxwell Gateway Project to support critical infrastructure improvements along I-65 through Montgomery. He also secured $1.65 million for the Montgomery Regional Tech & Innovation Ecosystem Initiative to bolster technology, innovation and workforce development in Central Alabama. The funding is a direct result of Congressman Figures’ FY2026 appropriations request. Congressman Figures held a press conference today to announce the funding with Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed, Montgomery Regional Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Anna Buckalew, and Montgomery County Commissioner Carmen Moore-Zeigler. “Investing in the River Region strengthens our ability to compete for more economic development opportunities,” said Congressman Figures. “That is why securing over $3 million in funding for these community projects matters. I’m committed to doing everything I can to bring real resources back to the District to help support local efforts to improve our communities.” “Today, we are proud to highlight the Montgomery Regional Tech & Innovation Ecosystem Initiative — a bold step forward in building a stronger, more resilient, tech‑driven economy,” said Mayor Reed. “This moment reflects real progress toward transforming the River Region into a competitive and future‑ready innovation hub. At its core, this initiative is rooted in a simple but powerful idea: that every resident deserves access to the skills and opportunities of the modern economy. With the support of our federal partners, our educational institutions, and our local business community, we are expanding opportunity and building a smarter, stronger, more innovative Montgomery for all.” “With today’s announcement, we are seeing leadership in action. It’s not just about vision — it’s about execution and implementation,” said Regional Chamber President & CEO Buckalew. “Together, we have aligned around a clear plan to drive economic growth by strengthening our infrastructure, supporting our military, investing in workforce and innovation, and building a downtown that reflects the momentum of a capital city on the move.” “Montgomery County is grateful to Congressman Figures for securing these important investments that strengthen both our infrastructure and our economic future," said Montgomery County Commission Vice Chairwoman Moore-Zeigler. "The Maxwell Gateway Project will support critical improvements along a key I-65 corridor, one of the primary gateways into our community and an important connection to Maxwell Air Force Base and the greater River Region. The Montgomery Regional Tech and Innovation Ecosystem Initiative also helps grow our technology sector, support workforce development, and create new opportunities as we continue working to move Montgomery County forward.”

Figures Issues Statement on Bipartisan War Powers Resolution

Position: Congressman Figures supports a bipartisan War Powers Resolution to restrict further military action against Iran without congressional approval, arguing that Congress has a constitutional responsibility to prevent unauthorized military escalation that risks additional American casualties.

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Shomari C. Figures (AL-02) issued the following statement after voting to support the bipartisan War Powers Resolution that would have restricted further military action against Iran without congressional approval: “President Trump started a war with Iran without congressional approval and without a plan to address the fallout. American soldiers have already tragically died. Congress has a responsibility to ensure that the President does not force us further into this conflict, with no clear objective or timeline, resulting in the loss of more American troops.” ### Issues: Congress Veterans

Figures Issues Statement Opposing 2026 Farm Bill

Position: Congressman Figures opposed H.R. 7567, the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026, arguing that the bill does not adequately support farmers, rural hospitals, land-grant institutions, or provide states sufficient flexibility on SNAP cost-sharing requirements.

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Shomari C. Figures (AL-02) issued the following statement after voting against H.R. 7567, the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026: “I voted against this Farm Bill because it does not go far enough to protect farmers and families in Alabama. We had an opportunity to provide much-needed relief for farmers, to make significant investments in rural hospitals, to bolster support for our land-grant institutions, including Tuskegee University, and to provide states with time and flexibility to adjust to the new cost-sharing requirements for SNAP. Unfortunately, this bill fails to do any of these things. I’m disappointed that this bill is not as strong as it could be because we have an obligation to help our constituents address their everyday problems—not make them worse.” The Farm Bill includes one of Figures’ amendments, co-led with Congresswoman Joyce Beatty, to address Heirs’ property issues by expanding education and technical assistance around land transfer, estate planning, and farm succession. This will help families, before land is lost, to navigate estate planning, clear title, and succession planning in time to make a difference. Figures also offered amendments that were ultimately not included in the final bill. These amendments would have required a clear examination of what happens if states determine that SNAP is no longer financially viable under the new cost-shift structure; supported rural health care systems; and strengthened land-grant universities that serve as the backbone of agricultural research and extension. ###