Tony Wied

Wied Helps Secure $30 Million Grant to Strengthen Wisconsin's Energy Production

Position: The release announces a $30 million federal Port Infrastructure Development grant for a fuel pipeline and barge project connecting Milwaukee to Green Bay, and states that the project will strengthen domestic energy production and lower energy costs. It describes the project as reducing truck traffic, exhaust, and road wear.

DE PERE, WI – The U.S. Department of Transportation announced today that Wisconsin will receive a $30 million grant through its Port Infrastructure Development Program, following Congressman Wied’s advocacy for the funding. The $30,407,281 grant will fund the Lake Michigan Marine Highway Transportation Energy Project, which will extend a pipeline from Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport to the U.S. Venture terminal at Port Milwaukee. The project will strengthen domestic energy production and help lower energy costs over the long term. “I am very pleased to see this funding come to Wisconsin to strengthen our ports, increase domestic energy production, and help lower costs for Wisconsinites. I contacted Secretary Duffy to advocate for this funding, and I thank him for investing in our great state. Continuing to unleash American energy is crucial to reducing our dependence on foreign countries, and this project will help support long-term efforts to lower energy costs for Wisconsin families,” said Congressman Wied. Background: Wisconsin relies on refined fuels to power our transportation network, making them a cornerstone of the state’s $450 billion economy. U.S. Venture, headquartered in Appleton, WI, has supplied Wisconsinites with gasoline and diesel fuel for more than 70 years. In 2016, a 110-mile pipeline that moved this fuel from Milwaukee to the Green Bay Terminal Complex was decommissioned, threatening the fuel supply for Northeastern Wisconsin and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. Since the pipeline closed, diesel-powered tanker trucks have hauled fuel from Milwaukee to Green Bay. On average, 75 tanker trucks per day travel the I-43 corridor in Eastern Wisconsin to supply the Green Bay terminal. Access to a reliable, refined fuel supply remains essential to our businesses and families. With support from the U.S. Department of Transportation, U.S. Venture and the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) will extend a fuel line at the General Mitchell International Airport (MKE) six miles along I-794 to Port Milwaukee and add additional fuel storage at Port Milwaukee. This will allow fuel to be loaded onto barges at Port Milwaukee for transport across our underutilized Lake Michigan maritime highway to Green Bay. A single barge can carry approximately 4.2 million gallons of fuel, or the equivalent of 500 tanker truck loads. Barging fuel from Milwaukee to Green Bay would significantly reduce exhaust, noise, congestion, and road wear. This project would also bring in more revenue for both Port Milwaukee and the Port of Green Bay, in alignment with the goals and priorities of the ports and WisDOT. Further, it would increase the region’s access to domestically produced fuel and protect the reliability of our essential fuel supply from the weather disruptions that often occur in our state. Last year, Congressman Wied led Congressmen Bryan Steil (WI-01), Scott Fitzgerald (WI-05), Glenn Grothman (WI-06), and Tom Tiffany (WI-07) in a letter to the USDOT to advocate for this grant funding. Read Congressman Wied’s letter in support of this project HERE. Issues:Energy

Small Business Committee Advances Two Bills Introduced by Rep. Wied

Position: The release states that the House Small Business Committee unanimously advanced the Cybersecurity for Small Businesses Act and the Reshoring American Manufacturing Act, and that Rep. Wied supports passing both bills through the House.

WASHINGTON, DC — The House Committee on Small Business today advanced two bills introduced by Congressman Tony Wied (R-WI) with bipartisan support. “Whether it’s strengthening cybersecurity for small businesses or helping bring manufacturing back home, I am committed to doing everything I can to put Main Street first and give small businesses the tools they need to continue driving our economy,” said Congressman Wied. “These commonsense pieces of legislation were designed to make life easier for small business owners. I am pleased to see them advance through committee, and I look forward to working to pass them through the House.” During today’s markup, members of the Small Business Committee unanimously voted to advance both the Cybersecurity for Small Businesses Act and the Reshoring American Manufacturing Act. The Cybersecurity for Small Businesses Act: Requires the Small Business Administration to collaborate with the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency and the National Institute of Standards and Technology to provide small businesses with information on cybersecurity best practices. Requires the Small Business Administration, in coordination with the Secretary of War, to provide specific information related to the levels of cybersecurity requirements for the Department of War’s Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC). Requires the Administrator to consult the Chief Counsel for Advocacy at the SBA’s Office of Advocacy annually to determine best practices for disseminating information to small businesses. The Reshoring American Manufacturing Act: Requires the Small Business Administration to establish, operate, and maintain a webpage that provides a free tool for small businesses seeking information on onshoring their manufacturing capacity to the United States, including a list of resources, relevant organizations, and other information deemed necessary by the SBA. Requires the SBA’s Office of Manufacturing and Trade to annually consult with the Office of Advocacy to improve and update the webpage’s resources and information.

Rep. Wied Introduces Bill to Strengthen Cybersecurity and Reduce Costs for Small Businesses

Position: The release supports legislation requiring the Small Business Administration to coordinate with CISA and the Department of War to provide clearer cybersecurity guidance and CMMC compliance information to small businesses, arguing that current unclear requirements force unnecessary spending.

WASHINGTON, DC — Congressman Tony Wied (R-WI) introduced legislation this week to help small businesses strengthen their cybersecurity while streamlining coordination among federal agencies to reduce unnecessary costs. The Cybersecurity for Small Businesses Act requires the Small Business Administration to work with the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency to provide small businesses with information on cybersecurity best practices. It also requires coordination with the Secretary of War to provide specific information on the levels of cybersecurity requirements under the Department of War’s Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) program. “In today’s rapidly evolving digital world, it is critical for small businesses to maintain the highest-quality and most up-to-date cybersecurity infrastructure,” said Congressman Wied. “However, small businesses shouldn't be forced to spend hundreds of thousands of dollars to obtain a level of cybersecurity they don’t need simply because Washington has failed to provide clear rules. The Cybersecurity for Small Businesses Act will provide much-needed clarity to help small businesses protect themselves without forcing them to spend excessive amounts of money trying to comply with vague guidelines.” Background: Cybersecurity has become an increasingly important consideration for small businesses, but many struggle to find clear, up-to-date guidance. Currently, the SBA’s website provides some information for small businesses looking to secure their cyber infrastructure, but it may not reflect other agencies’ best-practice recommendations. This leaves small businesses’ cyber infrastructure vulnerable to nefarious actors. Additionally, the SBA lacks information on complying with the Department of War's new cybersecurity initiative, the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC). This certification is multi-tiered based on the sensitive information a contractor or subcontractor may handle. The DoW has paused Phase II and III requirements while it conducts a 60-day review. Before the temporary pause, many small businesses were unsure of which level they were required to have. Without clear instructions, many were forced to spend upwards of hundreds of thousands of dollars to comply with requirements they may not have needed. This bill ensures the SBA can provide small businesses with the most accurate and relevant information once Phase II and III requirements are reimplemented. Representatives Beth Van Duyne (R-TX) and Kimberlyn King-Hinds (R-CNMI) are original cosponsors of this legislation. “North Texas is one of America’s fastest-growing hubs for firms offering professional, scientific, and technical services, and thousands of tech-oriented small businesses call our region home. They shouldn’t have to spend six figures trying to decipher Washington’s one-size-fits-all bureaucratic cybersecurity rules. I am glad to help introduce the Cybersecurity for Small Business Act to give small businesses clear guidance on best practices to protect their networks without wasting time and money on unnecessary requirements,” said Congresswoman Van Duyne. “Cyberattacks do not just target the federal government or large corporations. Small businesses are also targets for foreign adversaries, including the Chinese Communist Party. Many lack the resources or expertise of larger companies to protect themselves. These attacks cost American businesses and our economy. This legislation gives small businesses clearer access to federal cybersecurity guidance. It also helps those seeking to work with the federal government understand the requirements they need to meet. Protecting America’s small businesses is part of protecting our economy and our national security,” said Congresswoman King-Hinds. The Cybersecurity for Small Businesses Act: Requires the Small Business Administration to collaborate with the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency to provide small businesses with information on cybersecurity best practices. Requires the Small Business Administration, in coordination with the Secretary of War to provide specific information related to the levels of cybersecurity requirements for the Department of War’s Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC). Requires the Administrator to consult the Chief Counsel for Advocacy at the SBA’s Office of Advocacy to determine best practices for disseminating information. Adds an annual reporting requirement to Section 10 of the Small Business Act. Read the full bill text HERE. Issues:Congress

Wied Introduces Resolution Recognizing Small Firearm Manufacturers

Position: Congressman Wied introduced a resolution recognizing small firearm manufacturers' economic contributions and designating August as National Shooting Sports Month, and reaffirmed support for Second Amendment rights.

WASHINGTON, DC — Congressman Tony Wied (R-WI) introduced a resolution this week to recognize the contributions of small business firearm manufacturers to our economy and designate the month of August as National Shooting Sports Month. "Wisconsin is home to many incredible small firearm manufacturers who help drive our economy and ensure access to safe, reliable firearms that allow us to exercise our Second Amendment rights," said Congressman Wied. "This month, we recognize their contributions to our economy and reaffirm our commitment to protecting Americans’ constitutional right to keep and bear arms." Background: Small manufacturers of firearms contribute significantly to the national and local economy, as they support 380,000 jobs in the broader firearms industry and produce more than $91 billion in annual economic output. They are essential conduits for the exercise of Second Amendment rights by individuals in the United States and provide products, training, and community engagement to sportsmen in this country. Shooting sports promote safe and responsible firearm handling, outdoor stewardship, and civic engagement through local clubs, ranges, and competitions. Congressman Wied introduced a similar resolution in the House of Representatives in August 2025. He renewed the effort this month to reassert his commitment to small manufacturers and to protecting the Second Amendment. Congressman Wied is proud to have the support of the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF). “National Shooting Sports Month is a celebration of our shared American heritage of responsible firearm ownership. The firearm industry has been on the leading edge of ensuring Americans can freely exercise their Second Amendment rights. That journey begins when law-abiding citizens can freely approach the counter to purchase firearms and ammunition. Americans share our industry’s passion for recreational shooting sports, hunting, conservation and self-defense. The firearm industry proudly supports 393,00 jobs across America and generates over $91.7 billion in economic activity. Just as proudly, the firearm industry paid over $804 million in Pittman-Robertson excise taxes last year, which funds wildlife conservation, public land access and construction of public recreational shooting ranges. Since those funds’ inception in 1937, firearm and ammunition manufacturers have paid over $31 billion, when adjusted for inflation. NSSF is grateful that Congressman Tony Wied has been at the forefront to ensure that heritage of responsible firearm ownership is passed on to the next generation, and we are proud that he leads this effort to recognize the importance of National Shooting Sports Month,” said Lawrence G. Keane, NSSF Senior Vice President & General Counsel. This Resolution: Celebrates the role of small businesses that manufacture firearms in supporting domestic manufacturing and economic opportunity in communities across the United States. Supports policies that strengthen the ability of such small businesses to innovate, grow, and preserve the recreational shooting traditions of the United States. Recognizes August 2026 as “National Shooting Sports Month."

Wied Introduces 10-Year Ban on Members of Congress Becoming Lobbyists or Federal Contractors

Position: Introduces the SERVE Act, which would impose a ten-year cooling-off period barring former Members of Congress from lobbying Congress or federal agencies and from compensated federal contracting. The release argues this addresses revolving-door conflicts of interest.

WASHINGTON, DC — Congressman Tony Wied (R-WI) introduced legislation today to address an issue that has plagued the DC swamp for far too long: career politicians using their connections and insider knowledge to enrich themselves as lobbyists and federal contractors after leaving office. The Safeguarding Ethics and Restoring Voter Expectations (SERVE) Act establishes a mandatory ten-year cooling-off period prohibiting any individual who serves as a Member of Congress during the 119th Congress or any succeeding Congress from lobbying or engaging in compensated federal contracting activities. “Public service is supposed to be about the people we represent, not a steppingstone to personal gain,” said Congressman Wied. “Yet too often, we see former Members of Congress leverage their time in Washington to position themselves for lucrative lobbying or federal contracting opportunities immediately after leaving office. This self-serving cycle is exactly why the American people have lost faith in Washington, and I don't blame them. Until we end this revolving door, career politicians will continue to abuse the system to enrich themselves and further erode trust in our government.” Background: For decades, Americans have watched as former Members of Congress have walked out of the Capitol and immediately cashed in on their time in office, turning public trust into private profit. This revolving-door culture erodes confidence in Congress and fuels the perception that decisions made here are shaped by future job prospects rather than the interests of our constituents. Currently, Senators are prohibited from lobbying for 2 years after leaving office, and Representatives are prohibited from lobbying for 1 year. There are no restrictions prohibiting former Members of Congress from serving as federal contractors. The SERVE Act addresses this conflict of interest by: Establishing a mandatory ten-year cooling-off period for any individual who serves as a Member of Congress during the 119th Congress or any Congress thereafter. Prohibiting former Members from: Lobbying Congress or federal agencies. Engaging in compensated federal contracting activities for ten years after leaving office. This legislation institutes practical, commonsense reforms that put constituents first and will help rebuild faith in Congress. Read the full bill text HERE. Issues:Congress

Congressman Wied Introduces Bill to Help Restore U.S. Manufacturing

Position: The release supports introducing the Restoring American Manufacturing (RAM) Act, which would codify an SBA web portal connecting small businesses seeking to reshore manufacturing with verified U.S. manufacturers, producers, and suppliers.

WASHINGTON, DC — Congressman Tony Wied (R-WI) introduced the Restoring American Manufacturing (RAM) Act to provide resources to small businesses seeking to bring their manufacturing back to the United States. The RAM Act would codify the Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Make Onshoring Great Again Portal, connecting small businesses who seek to onshore their operations with verified U.S. manufacturers, producers, and suppliers. “Reshoring manufacturing is critical for restoring our nation’s economic independence, maintaining global supply chain control, and supporting American workers,” said Congressman Wied. “This online portal gives small businesses the resources they need to reshore their operations and revitalize Made in America manufacturing. I am proud to introduce this legislation to help bring American jobs back home and strengthen our economy.” “Small businesses make up over 98% of American manufacturers, and North Texas is no exception, as manufacturing is central to our local economy,” said Congresswoman Van Duyne. “The Small Business Administration already has the tools and partnerships to help small businesses onshore their manufacturing to the U.S., they just need an easy way to find those resources. The Reshoring American Manufacturing Act will do just that, which is why I am glad to help introduce this legislation.” Background: Through executive orders from President Trump, prioritization from the SBA, and congressional action such as the One Big Beautiful Bill, the United States is revitalizing its manufacturing capabilities. While many large corporations have the resources needed to reshore their manufacturing capabilities, many small businesses do not and instead turn to the SBA for support. The Make Onshoring Great Again Portal is a website run by the SBA that provides information on its programs and partnerships with organizations such as IndustryNet, CONNEX, and IQS Directory, giving small businesses a clear starting point for reshoring their manufacturing capabilities. Reps. Beth Van Duyne (R-TX), Jake Ellzey (R-TX), and Brad Finstad (R-MN) are original cosponsors of this legislation. Key Provisions: Requires the Small Business Administration to establish, operate, and maintain a website that provides a list of resources and relevant agencies for small businesses seeking information on onshoring part or all of their manufacturing capacity to the United States. Read the full bill text HERE.

REAL Ingredients, REAL Standards: Congressman Wied Introduces REAL Butter Act

Position: The release supports the REAL Butter Act, which would require lab-created or engineered butter alternatives to be labeled as "lab-created butter" on the product, arguing this protects consumers and allows dairy farmers to compete on a level playing field.

Greenleaf, WI — Congressman Tony Wied (R-WI) visited Brickstead Dairy earlier today to announce his newest bill, the bipartisan Recognizing Engineered Alternatives as Lab-Created (REAL) Butter Act, co-led with Congressman Josh Riley (D-NY). This legislation would promote transparency, protect consumer choice, and support Wisconsin dairy farmers. “Billionaire food experiments are no longer hypothetical. Bill Gates is currently funding a carbon-based, lab-grown butter project created from carbon dioxide instead of milk from a cow, and it is happening in Illinois, right in the backyard of America's Dairyland. The REAL Butter Act would simply require that it be clearly labeled as "lab-created butter" directly on the product. America's dairy farmers put in the work every day to keep our families fed, our rural communities strong, and our agricultural heritage alive. They should not have to compete with products that hide behind vague or misleading labels,” said Congressman Wied. "Upstate dairy farmers work hard to make high-quality products that our families can count on. Fake 'butter' alternatives shouldn’t be allowed to ride their coattails with misleading labels that confuse customers. Our bipartisan bill strengthens labeling standards for imitation butter, helping families make informed choices at the grocery store and protecting dairy farmers in Upstate New York and across the country,” said Congressman Riley. Background: In April 2025, Bill Gates announced his newest company, Savor, with a “butter” made of carbon. In other words, a fake butter made from thin air, despite claims that it is chemically the same as traditional butter. This creation is an attack on American farmers, the dairy industry, and the Trump Administration, which recently recognized butter as a healthy food under its newly announced dietary guidelines. The REAL Butter Act would simply ensure that this fake "butter" is labeled as "lab-created" directly on the product, so consumers are not confused about what they are buying. This commonsense bill would protect consumers by ensuring they can make informed decisions when choosing healthy, real dairy-based butter and allow dairy farmers to compete on a level playing field. Representatives Tom Tiffany (R-WI), Derrick Van Orden (R-WI), Claudia Tenney (R-NY), John Rose (R-TN), and David Schweikert (R-AZ) are original cosponsors of this legislation. Read the bill text HERE.

Wied Leads Bipartisan Letter Urging Federal Assistance for Wisconsin Flooding

Position: The release describes a bipartisan letter from Wisconsin's congressional delegation supporting the state's request for a Major Disaster Declaration and federal Individual and Public Assistance following April flooding. It does not take a position on pending legislation.

WASHINGTON, DC — Today, Congressman Tony Wied (WI-08) led members of the Wisconsin Congressional delegation in sending a bipartisan letter to President Donald J. Trump in support of the State of Wisconsin’s request for a Major Disaster Declaration and to stress the need for federal assistance for impacted residents. “We write in strong support of the State of Wisconsin’s request for a Major Disaster Declaration, and subsequent requests for Individual and Public Assistance following several rounds of severe storms in April, which resulted in widespread flooding and damage throughout the state. This delegation is committed to working with your administration, FEMA, and Wisconsin Emergency Management to guarantee that Wisconsin's residents and communities get the assistance they need. We thank you for your timely consideration of this urgent request.” Background: In April, communities across Wisconsin experienced heavy rainfall and severe weather over multiple days, causing multiple rivers to flood their banks and destroy homes and businesses alike. On Wednesday, April 29th, Governor Evers requested FEMA’s assistance with a Joint Preliminary Damage Assessment (JPDA), and on Thursday, April 30th, FEMA responded. Following the JPDA, Governor Tony Evers requested a Major Disaster Declaration. In total, over 1,500 residential structures were damaged across 19 counties and the Oneida Nation, resulting in nearly $10 million in costs. Public infrastructure damage is currently estimated at over $17 million, easily exceeding the State’s per capita indicator. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and Representatives Bryan Steil (WI-01), Mark Pocan (WI-02), Derrick Van Orden (WI-03), Gwen Moore (WI-04), Scott Fitzgerald (WI-05), Glenn Grothman (WI-06), and Tom Tiffany (WI-07) joined Rep. Wied in making this request. Read the full letter HERE.

House Passes Farm Bill with Rep. Wied's Amendments Included

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Earlier today, Congressman Tony Wied (WI-08) voted to pass the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026, better known as the Farm Bill. “For years, our farmers have asked Congress to pass a new Farm Bill, and I was proud to join my colleagues in the House to do just that,” said Congressman Wied. “This bill is the result of extensive bipartisan work and stakeholder input and will invest in rural communities, prioritize American commodities, restore regulatory certainty, and finally put the 'farm' back in Farm Bill. We are providing Wisconsin farmers with the tools they need to thrive for years to come. Now it is time for the Senate to finish the job and get this to President Trump’s desk.” Background: Since the first farm bill was passed in 1933, it has been an essential driver of American agriculture. Much has changed since the first bill was passed, with science, technology, and innovation allowing our country to produce the safest, most abundant, and most affordable food supply in the world. The new challenges and opportunities our producers face require new policy, and the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026 rises to meet the occasion. This bill builds on the historic ag investments made last summer in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. The last Farm Bill was passed in 2018. Although it was intended to cover only a 5-year period, Congress failed to bring the new bill to the floor in 2024, leaving American farmers with uncertainty and subject to outdated policies. Today, the House approved the bill and sent it to the Senate for final passage. Congressman Wied is proud to have introduced three bipartisan Amendments that were included in the final bill. Low Sugar-Added Yogurt Amendment: Introduced alongside Congressman Riley (D-NY), this provision includes low-sugar-added yogurt eligible for the Dairy Nutrition Incentive Program, incentivizing SNAP recipients to purchase more nutritious yogurt as part of their healthy diets. Rightsizing Organic Integrity (ROI) Amendment: Also introduced alongside Congressman Riley, this amendment would modernize inspection requirements for organic operations by allowing the USDA to do virtual inspections annually and in-person inspections every 3 years for low-risk domestic producers. EBT Fee Free Act: After being introduced as a stand-alone bill last year alongside Congresswoman Brown (D-OH), this amendment would make permanent the 2018 Farm Bill’s temporary prohibition on processing fees for EBT cards– protecting both small businesses and SNAP recipients.

Wied, Steil Call for Investigation into Newcap's Misuse of Taxpayer Dollars

Position: The representatives call for a HUD investigation into allegations that Newcap Inc., a nonprofit housing organization in Wisconsin, mismanaged federal grant funds through excessive executive compensation and inappropriate spending on personal benefits rather than housing assistance.

WASHINGTON, DC — Congressmen Tony Wied (R-WI-08) and Bryan Steil (R-WI-01) wrote a letter to the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Scott Turner, calling for an investigation into the allegations of egregious mismanagement of taxpayer dollars by Newcap Inc. in Green Bay, WI. “Northeast Wisconsin families work hard for their money, and it is our duty to ensure that every single one of their taxpayer dollars is used efficiently," said Wied. "The allegations of misuse of funds at Newcap for the personal gain of executives and employees are unacceptable. I urge HUD to conduct a full investigation so taxpayers across Wisconsin’s 8th District can see how every penny was spent.” "Wisconsin families deserve to know grants funded by their tax dollars are used responsibly and efficiently," said Steil. "The allegations of excessive spending raise serious concerns about wasteful and abusive behavior with taxpayer funds. I urge HUD to investigate the allegations of misuse and restore good governance and responsible management of critical housing programs.” Background: Newcap is a non-profit organization whose mission is “to move people from poverty to opportunities and economic security, while enhancing community development.” However, in both 2023 and 2024, Newcap reported a $2 million deficit, despite receiving nearly $11 million from the federal government and nearly $3 million from the state. This deficit appears to be driven by abnormally high salaries for executives (including nearly $240,000 in annual compensation for the Chief Executive Officer, more than double her salary in 2018) and the misuse of grant funds to purchase first-class plane tickets and “team building activities” that included high-end dinners and cooking classes, among other items. Executive compensation at Newcap exceeded all 14 other peer agencies in the State. Further, Newcap’s executive compensation also included a $50,000 bonus for their CEO drawing off a Bezos Family Grant in a practice one charity watchdog criticized as “frowned upon in the nonprofit sector” for its potential to create “inappropriate incentives.” According to Newcap’s most recently published audit, $3 million of Newcap’s annual receipts came from various HUD programs, including Permanent Supportive Housing, the Youth Homelessness Demonstration Grant, and the HOME Homebuyer and Homeowner Rehabilitation Program. Money that should have gone towards helping Wisconsinites find safe and stable housing may have instead padded executive salaries and funded staff outings. This presents a clear case of wasteful and abusive behavior with taxpayer funds. Click here to read the letter.