Derek Schmidt

Rep. Derek Schmidt’s Bill to Strengthen Law Enforcement Background Checks Passes Senate, Heads to President

Position: The release supports legislation that would explicitly authorize the FBI to exchange criminal history record information with state POST agencies so those agencies can run background checks when certifying law enforcement officers. The bill has passed both chambers and is headed to the President.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Derek Schmidt (KS-02)’s bill to strengthen background checks for law enforcement officers today passed the U.S. Senate, clearing the way for the bill to head to President Trump. It passed the House earlier this year. The Criminal History Access Act, bipartisan legislation Schmidt introduced with Congresswoman Deborah Ross (NC-02), would explicitly authorize the exchange of criminal history record information between the Federal Bureau of Investigation and state Peace Officer Standards and Training (POST) agencies. State POST agencies are responsible for enforcing standards for the hiring, training, certification, and ethical conduct of law enforcement officers. POST agencies need access to criminal history information to properly screen and certify officers and enforce prohibitions against individuals with certain criminal histories serving as law enforcement officers. But under current law, POST agencies are not authorized to run criminal history background checks through federal records databases and instead rely on law enforcement agencies that employ the officers for those records checks. “For too long, state POST agencies have had to rely on individual law enforcement agencies to conduct the criminal history records checks needed when certifying officers," Congressman Schmidt said. "The Criminal History Access Act strengthens background checks by closing that loophole and giving state certification agencies the tools they need to make informed decisions about who is qualified to serve and protect our communities. I’m proud to have worked across party lines with Congresswoman Ross to get this bipartisan legislation through Congress, and I am hopeful the President will sign it into law soon.” “I’m grateful that the Criminal History Access Act passed unanimously in both the House of Representatives and the Senate, bringing us one step closer to ensuring that local law enforcement agencies have the information they need to properly vet and hire new officers,” said Congresswoman Deborah Ross. “This bipartisan legislation will ensure officers are held to even stronger hiring standards, which will make our communities safer and strengthen trust in law enforcement. I urge the President to sign this commonsense solution into law to give police and sheriff’s departments in North Carolina and across the country the tools to hire qualified, trusted officers.” The Criminal History Access Act is supported by the International Association of Directors of Law Enforcement Standards and Training. Congressman Schmidt has worked with the Kansas Commission on Peace Officer Standards and Training in developing and advancing the legislation. The legislation now heads to the President for consideration. ###

Reps. Derek Schmidt, Sharice Davids Take Kansas-Grown Children's Savings Initiative Nationwide

Position: The release supports introducing the bipartisan Born to Invest Act, which would direct Treasury and HHS to create guidance helping parents and guardians learn about tax-favored savings accounts for children, including Trump accounts, ABLE accounts, and 529 college savings plans, and would encourage coordination between state treasurers and health departments on birth-related information.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – A program now being implemented in Kansas to help families learn about savings and investment opportunities for their children could soon be expanded nationwide. Today, U.S. Representatives Derek Schmidt (KS-02) and Sharice Davids (KS-03) introduced the bipartisan Born to Invest Act, legislation to help parents and legal guardians learn about tax-favored savings and investment accounts available for their children. “Every child deserves the opportunity to build a strong financial foundation, and parents should have clear information about the tools available to help them do that,” said Rep. Derek Schmidt. “The Born to Invest Act will help connect families with information about accounts that can help them save and invest for their children’s future, while giving states a practical framework for making that information available from the beginning of a child’s life.” Kansas recently enacted the Born to Invest Act at the state level, creating a framework for connecting families with information about Trump Accounts, 529 college savings plans, and ABLE accounts. The federal Born to Invest Act would build on this Kansas approach by creating a nationwide framework to help families access information about these savings tools. The Born to Invest Act would require the Treasury Department, working with the Department of Health and Human Services, to create guidance for states on how to help parents and guardians learn about savings options for their children, including Trump accounts, ABLE accounts, and 529 college savings plans. The legislation would also encourage coordination between state treasurers and state health departments regarding information on live births, helping state treasurers carry out efforts to share information about these savings and investment options with families. "As someone who worked my way through college, I know how life-changing it is when a family can start saving early for a child's future,” said Rep. Sharice Davids. “But right now, too many new parents miss out on savings programs simply because no one tells them that they exist. This bipartisan bill fixes that. By delivering clear, actionable information to parents the moment a child is born, Representative Schmidt and I are helping Kansas families build real financial security from day one." “Building a strong financial foundation early in life gives children greater confidence and opportunity as they grow,” said Kansas State Treasurer Steven Johnson. “With several tax-advantaged savings options available, parents and caregivers have more ways than ever to help prepare their children for the future. Born to Invest is designed to help families understand these savings plans, learn about available financial incentives, and recognize the important role investing can play in building long-term financial security. By providing this information early in a child’s life, we can help parents and caregivers choose the option that works best for their family and understand the lasting benefits of starting to save early. I appreciate the bipartisan leadership of Kansas Representatives Schmidt and Davids and their commitment to strengthening the financial well-being of families.” “Kansas has been leading the way in connecting people with disabilities and their families to tools like ABLE accounts that help them save, invest, and build financial security,” said Sara Hart Weir, Executive Director of the Kansas Council on Developmental Disabilities. “I’m thrilled to see Congressman Schmidt and Congresswoman Davids take this Kansas-grown idea national through the Born to Invest Act. For too long, Americans with disabilities have been told what they cannot earn, save, or own. This legislation helps change that trajectory from day one — ensuring children with disabilities are included in America’s growing culture of saving, investing, and building wealth.” Trump Accounts are a new type of tax-preferred account designed to help families save and invest for their children’s future. Eligible children born between 2025 and 2028 can receive a one-time $1,000 contribution from the U.S. Treasury, which is invested in the child’s account. Parents, family members, employers, and other eligible contributors can also add money to the account, allowing it to grow as the child grows. Federal law sets specific rules for these accounts while a child is growing up, and the Treasury Department and IRS have provided guidance on how they can be established and managed. The Born to Invest Act would build on these existing federal savings tools by helping ensure families receive information about available options. ###

Rep. Derek Schmidt Joins Effort to Crack Down on EBT Fraud

Position: Rep. Schmidt is cosponsoring the SKIM Act to combat EBT card and identity fraud through stronger law enforcement coordination, increased prison sentences for fake card use, and fraud prevention best practices.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Derek Schmidt (KS-02) announced that he is cosponsoring the SKIM Act, legislation to crack down on rampant EBT card and identity fraud and protect government benefits from criminals. The SKIM Act strengthens coordination among federal, state, and local law enforcement, increases prison sentences for criminals using fake cards, and establishes best practices to help identify and prevent future fraud. “Americans who receive government benefits shouldn’t have to worry about criminals stealing the help they rely on, and taxpayers need to know their hard-earned tax dollars are not being stolen from government programs,” said Congressman Schmidt. “We need to protect taxpayers, safeguard benefits, and hold those who commit fraud accountable.” The problem is significant: USDA reported that more than $220 million in SNAP benefits were stolen through EBT card skimming, cloning, and similar methods during fiscal years 2023 and 2024, with those benefits subsequently replaced using federal funds. The SKIM Act builds on Congressman Schmidt’s ongoing effort to fight fraud, protect Americans from scams, and safeguard taxpayer dollars. Rep. Schmidt has previously cosponsored legislation including: H.R. 7548 — SCAM Act, which takes aim at fraudulent and deceptive commercial advertisements online. H.R. 3469 — Tax Relief for Victims of Crimes, Scams, and Disasters Act, which would provide tax relief to victims who suffer losses from crimes, scams, and disasters. H.R. 8601 — Veterans Protection from Fraud Act, which strengthens protections for veterans from fraud. H.R. 2978 — GUARD Act, which works to protect aging retirees from deception and financial exploitation. H.R. 6425 — National Strategy for Combating Scams Act, which would establish a national strategy to combat scams. Rep. Schmidt is a co-lead of the bill. H.R. 6426 — STOP Scams Against Seniors Act, which would strengthen efforts to combat scams targeting seniors. Protecting taxpayers and fighting fraud has been a top priority throughout Schmidt’s public service. As Kansas Attorney General, he recovered more than $1.5 billion for Kansas consumers and taxpayers, including over $660 million in consumer protection and antitrust cases, $120 million in Medicaid fraud recoveries, and millions more in insurance, securities, and criminal fraud enforcement. ### Issues: Economy

Rep. Derek Schmidt Joins Bipartisan Effort to Expand ABLE Savings for Americans with Disabilities

Position: The release announces Rep. Schmidt's co-leadership of the bipartisan ABLE MATCH Act, which would provide a federal matching contribution of up to 100 percent on the first $2,000 annually saved by eligible low- and moderate-income individuals in ABLE accounts, and expresses support for expanding ABLE savings for people with disabilities.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Derek Schmidt (KS-02) today announced he has joined Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (MI-06) as a co-lead of the bipartisan ABLE MATCH (Making Able a Tool to Combat Hardship) Act, legislation to help more Americans with disabilities build financial security through Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) savings accounts. The legislation would establish a federal matching contribution for eligible low- and moderate-income individuals who save in ABLE accounts, allowing beneficiaries to receive up to a 100 percent federal match on the first $2,000 they contribute annually, subject to income limits. The federal matching funds would be deposited directly into the beneficiary's ABLE account, helping individuals save for disability-related expenses without jeopardizing eligibility for critical benefits. "ABLE accounts have provided many individuals with disabilities and their families an important tool to save for the future, but too many people still struggle to set aside money because of financial pressures," Congressman Schmidt said. "This bipartisan legislation helps make those savings go further by strengthening and expanding this successful program. Every Kansan deserves the opportunity to build greater financial security.” "Financial independence shouldn’t be out of reach for individuals with disabilities,” Rep. Dingell said. “By reintroducing the ABLE MATCH Act, we are taking a crucial step toward economic security by matching the hard-earned savings of ABLE account beneficiaries through a refundable tax credit." "I want to thank Congressman Derek Schmidt and Congresswoman Debbie Dingell for their bipartisan leadership in championing the ABLE MATCH Act,” said Sara Hart Weir, Executive Director for Kansas Council on Developmental Disabilities (KCDD). Kansas has shown that when states make a meaningful investment in ABLE outreach and partner across agencies, families respond. Through our statewide collaboration with the Kansas State Treasurer's Office, we've demonstrated that connecting people to ABLE accounts early and intentionally can transform lives. The ABLE MATCH Act will build on that success by ensuring that low- and moderate-income Kansans with disabilities don't just have access to an ABLE account—they have the financial incentive to start saving and building long-term independence. This legislation has the potential to dramatically scale ABLE participation in Kansas and across the nation." “Beginning in 2027, the federal government will offer a powerful savings incentive designed to help millions of hard-working Americans save for retirement,” Kansas State Treasurer Steven Johnson said. “For disabled Americans who rely on an ABLE account for building wealth, the incentive funds offered by the Saver’s Match cannot be deposited into an ABLE account. As administrator of the Kansas ABLE Savings Plan, I applaud Congressman Schmidt and Congresswoman Dingell for working to address this savings disparity and giving ABLE account owners access to a powerful wealth-building incentive.” ABLE accounts allow eligible individuals with disabilities to save money in tax-advantaged accounts to pay for qualified disability-related expenses without losing eligibility for programs such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Medicaid. More than 223,000 ABLE accounts were open nationwide as of September 2025, with an average account balance of approximately $12,863. People with disabilities continue to experience significantly higher rates of poverty and often face substantially higher costs of daily living. U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-KS) introduced the Senate version of the bill. The ABLE MATCH Act would apply to taxable years beginning after December 31, 2026. It has been referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

Congressman Derek Schmidt Proposes New World War II Education Initiative in Memory of Senator Bob Dole

Position: Introduces bipartisan legislation to create the Senator Robert J. Dole Greatest Generation Education Program, directing the Department of Defense to establish an educational program on World War II and authorizing grants to nonprofits and state and local governments for related educational and remembrance activities.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Derek Schmidt (KS-02) today introduced bipartisan legislation with Congresswoman Julie Johnson (TX-32) to create the Senator Robert J. Dole Greatest Generation Education Program, a new initiative dedicated to preserving the legacy of the Americans who served and sacrificed to win World War II. The bill, which was developed in collaboration with Friends of the National World War II Memorial, would direct the Department of Defense to create a comprehensive educational program designed to increase public awareness and understanding of the achievements, sacrifices, and enduring lessons of the Greatest Generation. The proposal authorizes grants to nonprofit organizations and state and local governments supporting educational activities, public programming, and intergenerational engagement for World War II history and remembrance across the country. “As the number of living World War II veterans continues to decline, our responsibility to preserve their stories and pass their lessons to future generations becomes even more important," Rep. Schmidt said. "This legislation will help young Americans learn about the courage, sacrifice, unity, and determination that won World War II, and it will appropriately honor Senator Dole's legacy." “The sacrifice that the Greatest Generation made for our country during World War II is one that we must continue to celebrate and revere,” Rep. Johnson said. “By promoting these high-quality, educational opportunities, we are ensuring that future generations understand one of the consequential periods of our history.” A combat-wounded veteran of World War II whose lifelong public service consistently supported World War II veterans, Senator Bob Dole of Kansas was a driving force behind the construction of the World War II Memorial on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. Dole died in 2021 at age 98, but his legacy is still closely associated with the World War II generation. The legislation emphasizes using the lessons of World War II to strengthen connections between generations, encourage patriotism, and demonstrate how Americans can overcome extraordinary challenges when united by a common purpose. “As an organization dedicated to educating the public about the Greatest Generation, the Friends of the National World War II Memorial commends Congressman Schmidt for introducing the Robert J. Dole Greatest Generation Education Program,” said Holly Rotondi, Friends of the National World War II Memorial Executive Director. “The sacrifices of the Greatest Generation remain an enduring source of patriotism, pride, and national unity, and their stories offer timeless lessons for current and future generations. As fewer World War II veterans remain with us, it is essential that their service be preserved, taught, and remembered. Education about World War II can inspire young Americans, bridge generational divides, and show how a united nation can overcome great challenges and build a better future. Congressman Schmidt’s leadership on this issue is greatly appreciated.” Schmidt also has amended the bill into the House of Representatives version of the National Defense Authorization Act for fiscal year 2027, which is expected to be voted on in the House this week. Issues: Education

Reps. Derek Schmidt, Brad Finstad Bill Would Permanently Strengthen Federal Fraud Enforcement

Position: Reps. Derek Schmidt and Brad Finstad are co-sponsoring legislation to permanently establish the National Fraud Enforcement Division within the Department of Justice, which would coordinate federal investigations and prosecutions of fraud against taxpayer programs.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Derek Schmidt is co-sponsoring legislation introduced by Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) to permanently establish the National Fraud Enforcement Division within the U.S. Department of Justice, ensuring the federal government maintains a coordinated effort to combat fraud and protect taxpayer dollars across future administrations. The legislation would codify the National Fraud Enforcement Division, which was established under President Donald Trump, making it a permanent office under the Attorney General. "Fraud against the federal government and American taxpayers costs billions of dollars each year," said Rep. Derek Schmidt. "By making this division permanent, we can strengthen the Department of Justice's ability to investigate and prosecute complex fraud schemes, protect taxpayer-funded programs, and ensure those who steal from the American people are held accountable." “In Minnesota, we’ve seen real accountability come as a result of the numerous federal fraud investigations underway by the DOJ. I’m grateful for the Trump administration’s continued efforts to put an end to the fraud and abuse within our federally funded programs,” said Rep. Finstad. “I’m proud to introduce this important legislation with Rep. Schmidt, which will centralize fraud prevention efforts within federal law enforcement and give the DOJ greater ability to fully investigate and prosecute the fraudsters responsible for stealing Americans’ hard-earned taxpayer dollars.” The National Fraud Enforcement Division would lead the Department of Justice's nationwide anti-fraud efforts by coordinating major investigations, working with federal agencies to dismantle organized fraud schemes, and recommending reforms to prevent future abuse. ###

Rep. Derek Schmidt-Led Bill to Strengthen Small Business Competition Passes House

Position: The release supports the Main Street Competes Act, which would require federal agencies to report annually to Congress on how antitrust laws affect small business competition and what policy changes could better support small business growth.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. House of Representatives today passed the Main Street Competes Act, bipartisan legislation introduced by U.S. Representatives Derek Schmidt (KS-02) and Hillary Scholten (MI-03). The bill would help level the playing field for small businesses. The bill would require federal agencies to report to Congress each year on how antitrust laws are working, how they are helping small businesses compete, and what changes in antitrust law or policy could better support small business growth. “Many small businesses find themselves competing against national or global corporations that have far more resources, influence, and market power," Congressman Schmidt said. "This bill is about making sure policymakers have the information needed to promote fair, competitive markets that help entrepreneurs succeed. The House passing this bipartisan effort sends a strong statement of support for Main Street small businesses, and I look forward to working with my Senate colleagues to keep it moving forward.” “Small businesses are truly the foundation of our economy, but too often they are left to unfairly compete against a handful of large corporations,” said Congresswoman Scholten. “I’m so proud that the House passed our bipartisan Main Street Competes Act, which will help close the gap in our federal laws that make it easier for larger businesses to evade accountability for illegal activity. I came to Congress to make the federal government work better for the people it serves, and this legislation does exactly that.” The Main Street Competes Act previously passed unanimously out of the House Small Business Committee, and with today's House passage, now heads to the Senate for consideration. Click here to watch Congressman Schmidt's House floor remarks. Issues: Economy

Reps. Derek Schmidt, Sharice Davids Introduce Legislation to Keep USDA Offices Open for Kansas Farmers and Ranchers

Position: Introduces bipartisan legislation to prohibit the closure or relocation of USDA county offices and service centers (NRCS, FSA, Rural Development), with limited exceptions, and to require staffing sufficient to keep local offices open during business hours.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Representative Derek Schmidt (KS-02) and Representative Sharice Davids (KS-03) introduced the USDA Field Office Stability Act, bipartisan legislation to prevent the closure or relocation of critical U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) field offices that serve farmers, ranchers, and rural communities across Kansas and the nation. The USDA Field Office Stability Act would prohibit the closure or relocation of county offices and service centers operated by the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), Farm Service Agency (FSA), and USDA Rural Development, with limited exceptions for offices located within 20 miles of another USDA office or routine relocations within the same county. The legislation would also require USDA to maintain staffing levels sufficient to keep local service centers open and accessible during normal business hours. The legislation was introduced in response to constituent concerns regarding delays in application processing, payments, and contract certifications – challenges that have particularly affected conservation programs and the FSA loan program. "Farmers, ranchers, and rural communities depend on local USDA offices to access the programs and services they need," said Congressman Derek Schmidt. "Whether it's disaster assistance, conservation programs, farm loans, or technical support, Kansans deserve reliable, in-person access to USDA resources. Yet many small offices are staffed by only one or two people, which means a reduction in staffing can leave the office unable to function. Our bipartisan bill helps ensure USDA remains accessible to the people it serves and that rural communities are not left behind." “Farmers and rural communities shouldn’t have to worry about whether the USDA office they depend on will still be there or properly staffed when they need help,” said Rep. Davids. “Kansas has already lost more than 500 USDA employees since last year, and when offices are understaffed or disappearing, it makes it harder for rural communities to access basic services they’ve earned and deliver food more cheaply. Rep. Schmidt and I agree that all Kansas communities deserve dependable access to farm support.” “County-level USDA staffing shortages have impeded program implementation for multiple administrations,” said Donn Teske, President, Kansas Farmers Union. “Cuts to the Farm Service Agency (FSA), Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) and other USDA agencies have been detrimental to rural America and to the agencies' ability to fulfill their mission. Kansas Farmers Union opposes county office downsizing, consolidation, relocation, and/or closures. We call on USDA to increase funding, hiring, training, and pay for its staff so they can continue to provide quality service to the agriculture community. We thank Representatives Davids and Schmidt for leading this effort in a bipartisan manner, and we look forward to working with them and other key policymakers and stakeholders on this priority.” In April, Congressman Schmidt joined 14 colleagues in sending a letter to the U.S. Department of Agriculture urging immediate action to address staffing shortages at local Farm Service Agency and Natural Resources Conservation Service offices. USDA field offices provide critical support to agricultural producers and rural residents, helping administer farm programs, conservation initiatives, rural development assistance, and emergency response efforts. In many rural areas, these offices serve as the primary point of contact between producers and the federal government.

Rep. Derek Schmidt Applauds House Passage of Farm Bill

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Derek Schmidt (KS-02) today applauded House passage of the Farm Bill, highlighting its strong support for farmers, ranchers, and rural communities across Kansas. The legislation expands investment in rural America, lowers energy costs, improves producers’ access to credit, and strengthens conservation programs for working lands - helping ensure long-term stability and growth across the agricultural economy. “The Farm Bill will deliver meaningful support for Kansas farmers and ranchers,” said Congressman Schmidt. “It strengthens our food system, bolsters rural communities, and provides the certainty producers need to plan for the future.” Schmidt also secured inclusion of his amendment to promote domestic production of crops used in natural color additives. The amendment directs the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the Department of Health and Human Services to coordinate research aimed at expanding the ability of American producers to grow crops used in natural food colorings—an emerging market driven by increasing consumer demand. “This amendment is about creating new opportunities for American agriculture while supporting innovation in our food system,” Schmidt said. “By investing in research, we can help farmers diversify, strengthen domestic supply chains, and meet growing demand for natural ingredients.” Under the provision, USDA and HHS will establish formal interagency agreements within one year of enactment and implement a competitive, merit-based research process. The effort encourages collaboration among federal agencies, universities, nonprofit organizations, and private-sector partners. The amendment also supports research infrastructure, workforce development, and public-private partnerships to position American agriculture for long-term success in this growing sector. ###

Rep. Derek Schmidt Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Strengthen Police Background Checks

Position: The release advocates for legislation that clarifies federal law to allow state law enforcement training and certification agencies to access FBI criminal history records when screening and certifying police officers.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Derek Schmidt (KS-02) and Representative Deborah Ross (NC-02) introduced the Criminal History Access Act, bipartisan legislation to ensure that state law enforcement training and certification agencies can access the criminal history information they need to properly screen and approve officers. The Criminal History Access Act clarifies existing federal law to explicitly authorize the exchange of criminal history record information between the Federal Bureau of Investigation and state Peace Officer Standards and Training agencies. These agencies are responsible for setting standards for the hiring, training, certification, and ethical conduct of law enforcement officers. “Public trust in law enforcement begins with accountability and high standards,” said Rep. Schmidt. “This legislation ensures that the agencies responsible for certifying officers have access to the information they need to make informed decisions and prevent individuals with disqualifying criminal histories from serving in positions of authority.” “It’s essential that we give police departments in North Carolina and across the country the tools and resources they need to hire qualified, trusted officers,” said Congresswoman Ross. “This bipartisan legislation will ensure local law enforcement can access critical data when vetting and hiring new officers. This bill is a commonsense solution that will prevent bad actors from gaining employment and strengthen trust between our local communities and law enforcement.” This legislation is an updated version of a bill Rep. Schmidt introduced last year, H.R. 5211. The Criminal History Access Act is expected to be considered by the House Judiciary Committee this week, with a potential floor vote during National Police Week in May. The bill is supported by the International Association of Directors of Law Enforcement Standards and Training.