Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach

Rep. Fischbach Honored with Growth Energy's Fueling Growth Award

Mon, 264 Sep 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach (MN-07) was recognized with Growth Energy's Fueling Growth Award at its annual Biofuels Summit for her leadership and advocacy on behalf of America’s ethanol producers, corn growers, and rural communities.

At the summit in Washington, D.C., Representative Fischbach highlighted the House’s work to advance permanent, year-round E15 sales and called on the Senate to pass the legislation.

"In the House, we have done our job. We passed the Farm Bill, and we passed permanent, year-round E15," said Rep. Fischbach. "We proved that year-round E15 is a win for the American consumer with savings of 20 to 40 cents a gallon at the pump, a win for national security by keeping homegrown fuel in our tanks, and a win for our corn growers and ethanol producers."

Fischbach served as a key champion, using her position on the Rules Committee to navigate the year-round E15 legislation through the House of Representatives. She also urged attendees during her address to press Senate offices during their Capitol Hill visits to deliver regulatory certainty for agricultural producers and consumers.

"The Farm Bill and our E15 legislation sit across the Capitol in the Senate, stalled while our growers continue to face outdated regulations and are forced to rely on temporary, short-term emergency waivers," Fischbach continued. "I am tired of hitting the pause button on American energy every summer, and I know you are too. The House finished the work, and now the Senate needs to step up, pass these bills, and get them across the finish line."

In addition to advocating for E15, Representative Fischbach outlined key legislative efforts to open new domestic markets for the bioeconomy, including the bipartisan Biobased Materials Investment and Production Act introduced alongside Representative Nikki Budzinski (IL-13). She also reiterated her success in pushing for the U.S. Department of the Treasury to provide final clarity on the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Tax Credit that fully recognizes domestic feedstocks.

Rep. Fischbach’s Empowering Moms Act Advances Out of Ways and Means Committee

Fri, 261 Sep 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, DC - Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach’s (MN-07) Empowering Moms Act (H.R. 10356) passed out of the House Ways and Means Committee today, marking a step toward expanding comprehensive support and federal resources for parents nationwide.

"Expecting and new mothers deserve easy access to compassionate care and clear medical information," said Rep. Fischbach. "The Empowering Moms Act gives women real resources to help them navigate pregnancy and raise their families. We must do everything in our power to support mothers during their pregnancies and after. This bill does exactly that."

"Every mother deserves a clear path to the resources that can help her and her baby thrive," said Ways and Means Committee Chairman Jason Smith (MO-08). "Too many pregnant women and new moms do not know where to turn for health care, financial help, or basic parenting support in their own community. The Empowering Moms Act helps make those resources easier to find by turning President Trump's one-stop website, Moms.gov, into a permanent, comprehensive directory that connects mothers to help close to home. This bill reflects Representative Fischbach's long-standing commitment to moms and families. I am grateful for her work to help moms and babies across the country thrive."

The Empowering Moms Act codifies Moms.gov as a central resource for expecting and new parents with information about pregnancy resource centers, adoption agencies, and other relevant public and private resources available to women near their zip code and surrounding areas, including:

Health and well-being services, such as prenatal diagnostics, breastfeeding support, pregnancy wellness, primary care, and infant loss support.
Material support for formula, diapers, household goods, and child care.
Mental health services with respect to domestic violence and sexual assault.
Comprehensive information on alternatives to abortion and abortion risks.

This legislation will also require HHS to maintain a national list of federal funding opportunities available to non-profit and health care entities that provide pregnancy support services and will promote the life of unborn children by prohibiting Moms.gov from including information about entities that provide abortions.

Rep. Fischbach Hosting Service Academy Nomination Information Session

Thu, 260 Sep 2026 12:00:00 EST

Willmar, MN - Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach's (MN-07) office will be co-hosting an information session with Congressman Tom Emmer's (MN-06) office on September 22nd, from 6:00pm - 7:30pm at the St. Cloud Library (1300 W St Germain St) to discuss service academy nominations.

Any interested students and parents are invited to attend this session to learn more about the application and nomination process. They can also find more information by visiting the Congresswoman's website or clicking here.

Fischbach, Minnesota Republican Delegation Confront Walz on recent Minnesota Fraud Report

Thu, 253 Sep 2026 12:00:00 EST

Washington, DC - Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach (MN-07), Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06), Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08), joined Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) in sending a letter to Governor Walz on the recent findings of more fraud in Minnesota, this time involving a Liberian government official who is connected to at least two dozen Minnesota group homes that have collected $36 million of taxpayer funds over the last ten years.

“Minnesotans work hard for their money, and they have every right to expect that their tax dollars are supporting vulnerable families, not being lost to fraud due to a lack of state oversight,” said Rep. Fischbach. “The Walz Administration has shown a complete lack of accountability. Minnesotans deserve answers and corrective action to protect their tax dollars.”

To address the oversight failures highlighted by cases like this, Congresswoman Fischbach recently introduced the Federal Funds Whistleblower Protection Extension Act. The legislation stops whistleblower retaliation that often prevents fraud reporting by extending federal protections to state and local government employees, contractors, and subcontractors. Her bill follows a House Oversight Committee hearing where Minnesota State Representatives confirmed there are currently no criminal penalties for government officials who retaliate against individuals who speak out about fraud. The legislation would make it a federal crime for any state official who knowingly tries to ruin a whistleblower's life to protect a political narrative, with penalties of up to five years in federal prison.

Background

Recently, a Minnesota news outlet released the findings of its investigation into several group homes with reports of neglect and even investigations into the deaths of several residents. At the center of this investigation is Sekou Dukuly, a man who relocated to Africa from Minnesota in 2024 to become the director of Liberia’s government-owned port system while remaining the director of three Minnesota group homes.

You can read the letter sent to Walz in its entirety here.

Emmer, Minnesota Republican Delegation Confront Walz on recent Minnesota Fraud Report

Wed, 252 Sep 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Tom Emmer (MN-06), Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08), and Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach (MN-07) joined Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) in sending a letter to Governor Walz on the recent findings of more fraud in Minnesota, this time on a Liberian government official who is connected to at least two dozen Minnesota group homes that have collected $36 million of taxpayer funds over the last ten years.

“Our state’s tax dollars are being siphoned off by the millions, and yet Governor Walz sits on his hands and refuses to do anything about it,” said Congressman Emmer. “This likely fraud scheme doesn’t just hurt Minnesota taxpayers, it hurts the vulnerable individuals in the group homes this Liberian national claimed to run. Tim Walz is without question the worst governor in America.”

Background

Recently, a Minnesota news outlet released the findings of their investigation into several group homes with reports of neglect and even investigations into the deaths of several residents. At the center of this investigation is Sekou Dukuly, a man who relocated to Africa from Minnesota in 2024 to become the director of Liberia’s government-owned port system while remaining the director of three Minnesota group homes.

You can read the letter sent to Walz in its entirety here.

Original Article

Finstad Leads Minnesota Congressional Republicans in Demanding Accountability from Governor Walz After Alleged Fraud Involving Liberian Official Receiving Public Funds

Tue, 251 Sep 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01) led Minnesota Congressional Republicans in sending a letter to Governor Tim Walz highlighting concerns regarding allegations that companies linked to a highly ranked Liberian government official, Sekou Dukuly, received approximately $36 million in public funds to operate group homes in Minnesota. According to recent reports, Golden Touch Health Care and other group homes were investigated numerous times over the past decade for suspected maltreatment of their residents.

The letter reads:

“Dear Governor Walz,

“We write today to express our profound concern regarding the recent report of a Liberian government official receiving federally funded, state administered taxpayer dollars. This is yet another failure of your administration in safeguarding public funds.

“The latest allegations involving Golden Touch Health Care represent yet another troubling example. According to recent reporting, companies linked to Sekou Dukuly, who is a high ranking official in Liberia, received approximately $36 million in taxpayer funds over the past decade to operate group homes for vulnerable Minnesotans. During that period, state authorities investigated suspected maltreatment at affiliated facilities on at least 22 occasions, including cases involving resident deaths and substantiated neglect in multiple cases.

“While the Minnesota Department of Health has suspended payments to affiliated providers, citing credible allegations of Medicaid fraud, and has moved to close three facilities, this appears to be another example of your administration acting only after journalists, whistleblowers, or federal investigators expose serious misconduct.

“These allegations are deeply concerning, but they are not occurring in isolation. Minnesota taxpayers have repeatedly learned of alleged fraud and misuse involving Medicaid services, child care assistance, housing programs, and other publicly funded programs. This is a systematic failure of your administration’s oversight mechanisms that continues to permeate across the state.

“Minnesotans deserve to know why warning signs continue to be missed and why providers facing serious allegations remain eligible to receive taxpayer dollars. They also deserve confidence that state agencies are taking proactive steps to prevent fraud instead of simply responding after public funds have already been lost and vulnerable residents have been placed at risk.

“As a result of your failures, our state is under a microscope and providers who have done everything by the book are being punished by these bad actors draining our state’s resources. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) continues to withhold Medicaid dollars from the state because additional fraud continues to be uncovered with no accountability coming from your administration.

“Minnesotans are tired of learning about another alleged fraud scheme only after billions of taxpayer dollars have been placed at risk. They deserve transparency, accountability, and lasting reform.

“Sincerely,

Brad Finstad, Member of Congress

Tom Emmer, Member of Congress

Pete Stauber, Member of Congress

Michelle Fischbach, Member of Congress”

Original Article

Sen. Moran, Rep. Smith Lead Over 50 Colleagues in Urging Expanded Markets for U.S. Cattle Producers

Thu, 246 Sep 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) – a member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture – and U.S. Representative Adrian Smith (R-NE-03) – Chair of the House Ways and Means Subcommittee on Trade – today led over 50 of their colleagues in urging President Trump to prioritize policies that expand trade market access and provide certainty for American cattle producers. This comes after the President’s recent proclamation to increase the “other countries” quota for lean beef trimmings by 300,000 metric tons for 90 days beginning on September 1, 2026, and indicating that such imports will be sold at 25 percent below market price. U.S. Reps. Tracey Mann (R-KS-01), Derek Schmidt (R-KS-02) and Ron Estes (R-KS-04) also joined the letter.

“American ranchers work diligently to do more with less, weather volatile markets, and provide a safe food supply,” wrote the lawmakers. “Cattle markets are cyclical, and ranchers use the upswings to prepare for the inevitable downturn. Any intervention in the natural system, especially at a time when producers are making marketing decisions, threatens to pick winners and losers and undermine the long-term viability of family-owned cattle operations throughout the supply chain.”

“As you consider policy changes which could impact American livestock producers, we urge you to prioritize proposals which deliver long-term market stability and confidence while consulting closely with impacted stakeholders,” concluded the lawmakers. “We are eager to work together to deliver certainty for American cattle producers while continuing to deliver safe, affordable, and high-quality American beef.”

In addition, the letter was signed by Sens. Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-La.), Jim Justice (R-W.Va.) and Steve Daines (R-Mont.) and Reps. Dusty Johnson (R-SD), Randy Feenstra (R-IA-04), Ann Wagner (R-MO-02), Max Miller (R-OH-07), Ashley Hinson (R-IA-02), Dan Newhouse (R-WA-04), Greg Steube (R-FL-17), Mike Carey (R-OH-15), Michelle Fischbach (R-MN-07), Blake Moore (R-UT-01), Mike Flood (R-NE-01), Mike Bost (R-IL-12), Jeff Hurd (R-CO-03), Zach Nunn (R-IA-03), Warren Davidson (R-OH-08), Gabe Evans (R-CO-08), Mark Alford (R-MO-04), Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-IA-01), French Hill (R-AR-02), Morgan Griffith (R-VA-09), Brad Finstad (R-MN-01), Greg Murphy (R-NC-03), Frank Lucas (R-OK-03), Andy Barr (R-KY-06), John Rose (R-TN-06), Troy Downing (R-MT-02), Cliff Bentz (R-OR-02), Julie Fedorchak (R-ND), Tim Moore (R-NC-14), Bruce Westerman (R-AR-04), Rob Wittman (R-VA-01), Scott Franklin (R-FL-18), Austin Scott (R-GA-08), Mary Miller (R-IL-15), Celeste Maloy (R-UT-02), August Pfluger (R-TX-11), John McGuire III (R-VA-05), Darin LaHood (R-IL-16), Tom Cole (R-OK-04) and Mark Harris (R-NC-08).

Original Article

HSA Council endorses Hardworking Seniors Act

Wed, 245 Sep 2026 12:00:00 EST

The American Bankers Association Health Savings Account Council this week voiced its support for legislation that would allow working seniors on Medicare to contribute to HSAs.

Current law prevents working seniors enrolled in Medicare Part A from contributing to an HSA — even when they remain covered by an employer’s HSA-qualified health plan. This forces them to choose between HSA contributions and collecting earned Social Security benefits.

The Hardworking Seniors Act (H.R.10072), introduced by Rep. Michelle Fischbach (R-Minn.), would allow individuals entitled to Medicare Part A by reason of age to remain eligible to contribute to an HSA, beginning in 2027. In a letter to Fischbach, the HSA Council said it supports this commonsense change because it preserves workplace benefits, strengthens health care savings, and gives working seniors greater financial flexibility.

“Preserving HSA contribution eligibility for working seniors saves Medicare money by allowing older employees to remain on their employer’s plan,” the council said. “It also allows them to continue receiving employer HSA contributions like their younger counterparts.

“Your legislation solves a difficult problem for older Americans and we look forward to helping you enact it,” the council added.

Original Article

Fischbach Staff to Hold Mobile Office Hours in Sauk Centre on September 18

Mon, 236 Aug 2026 12:00:00 EST

Staff from the Office of Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach will be holding mobile office hours in Sauk Centre at the Sauk Centre City Hall (320 Oak St. S) on September 18th, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM.

The congressional staff will be available to answer constituent questions and take feedback on policy issues. The Congresswoman’s office will also be able to assist constituents with issues such as passport processing, veterans’ needs, tax refunds, Social Security benefits, and connect them with federal agencies like FEMA, FSA, and more.

For any questions regarding the mobile office hours, please call the Congresswoman’s office at (202) 225-2165. For more information on Congresswoman Fischbach and her service on behalf of Western Minnesota, please visit fischbach.house.gov.

Rep. Fischbach Introduces the Hardworking Seniors Act

Fri, 226 Aug 2026 12:00:00 EST

Washington, DC - This week, Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach (MN-07) introduced the Hardworking Seniors Act to allow our seniors to continue contributing to Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) while covered under Medicare Part A.

"Hardworking seniors are currently barred from contributing to tax-advantaged Health Savings Accounts just because they are receiving Medicare," said Rep. Fischbach. "I am excited to introduce the Hardworking Seniors Act to help America's working seniors continue to make these contributions and receive the tax benefits that go with them."

The Hardworking Seniors Act received support from several outside organizations:

A letter of support from the Employers Council on Flexible Compensation (ECFC) stated, "Allowing HSA contributions for working seniors would give them a flexible, tax advantaged tool to prepare for these costs, strengthening the financial security and reducing the long term burden on those with fixed incomes. ECFC supports your introduction of legislation to allow working senior to continue to have access to HSAs."

"Thank you very much for introducing the important, hardworking seniors legislation to allow working seniors of large employers with qualifying High Deductible Health Plans to contribute to a Health Savings Account while on their employer's health plan," said Daniel Perrin, Founder of HSA Coalition. "This is a key step forward to allowing those on public health plans to be eligible for a Health Savings Account."

Rep. Fischbach, MN GOP Delegation Praise Trump Admin for the Deportation of Walz-Pardoned Child Rapist

Thu, 211 Jul 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, DC – This week, Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach (MN-07) joined Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08), Congressman Brad Finstad (MN-01), and Majority Whip Tom Emmer (MN-06) in sending a letter to President Donald Trump, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin, thanking them for taking action to deport convicted child rapist Tou Lue Vang from the United States.

Tou Lue Vang entered this country illegally and was convicted of repeatedly raping a 10-year-old girl in Minnesota in 2006. Despite his illegal status and the depravity of his crimes, Governor Tim Walz and Attorney General Keith Ellison supported issuing a pardon for Vang this past June in an attempt to shield him from deportation.

Their letter reads (in part):

"Despite your mandate to remove the worst-of-the-worst from our nation, Tim Walz and his cronies have attempted to defy federal law and executive authority during both Operation Metro Surge and in the case involving Tou Lue Vang. Thus, their actions have continually placed our constituents in danger by endeavoring to allow criminals and gang members to walk freely amongst law-abiding Americans. Given Tim Walz and Keith Ellison's inexplicable despise for law and order, your campaign to rid illegal aliens from America has been desperately needed in our state.

"The contrast between this administration and the extreme, pro-criminal Walz Administration could not be clearer; you find, arrest, and deport child abusers. Tim Walz and Keith Ellison try, and fail, to stop you. As fathers, mothers, and elected representatives of Minnesota, we are grateful for your continued leadership and commitment to making our communities safe."

Read their full letter HERE.

Rep. Fischbach Leads Letter Urging EPA to Preserve Access to Critical Crop-Protection Tool

Fri, 205 Jul 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, DC - Representative Michelle Fischbach (MN-07) led a coalition of colleagues in sending a letter to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Lee Zeldin, urging the agency to correct Biden-Era regulatory overreach and restore access to Chlorpyrifos, a vital insecticide relied upon by American farmers.

In the letter, lawmakers called on the EPA to restore science-based review processes that recognize Chlorpyrifos as safe for use on crops.

"America’s farmers produce the safest and most abundant food in the world, but to keep doing that, they need access to safe, proven crop-protection tools," said Rep. Fischbach. "Food security is national security, and taking away tools from our growers threatens their ability to produce crops efficiently. The EPA must correct past regulatory overreach, follow its own scientific risk modeling, and protect the safe crop-management tools our agriculture community relies on."

Key Highlights of the Letter:

The EPA's own scientific record and risk modeling support the safe use of Chlorpyrifos.
Maintaining domestic agricultural output ensures the United States maintains a resilient food supply.
Forcing growers toward alternative pest management options imposes significantly higher costs while providing less effective control against destructive pests.

The letter received strong backing from key national agricultural stakeholder groups, including the American Farm Bureau Federation, American Soybean Association, American Sugarbeet Growers Association, National Association of Wheat Growers, and U.S. Beet Sugar Association.

The full text of the letter can be found here.

Rep. Fischbach was joined in the letter by US Representatives Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-01), Mark Alford (MO-04), Adrian Smith (NE-03), Brad Finstad (MN-01), Dan Newhouse (WA-04), Austin Scott (GA-08), Rick Allen (GA-12), David Taylor (OH-02), Sam Graves (MO-06), Mike Flood (NE-01), Mike Bost (IL-12), Pete Stauber (MN-08), Ann Wagner (MO-02), and Mary Miller (IL-15).

Rep. Fischbach, Bicameral Coalition Demand DOJ Investigation into Deaths of Late-Term Preborn Babies at D.C. Abortion Clinic

Wed, 203 Jul 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, DC - Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach (R-MN), along with Senator Mike Lee (R-UT), Representative Chris Smith (R-NJ), and over 50 Republican colleagues, sent a bicameral letter to Acting US Attorney General Todd Blanche and US Attorney for the District of Columbia Jeanine Pirro urging the US Department of Justice (DOJ) to thoroughly investigate the deaths of five late-term, preborn babies at a Washington, DC abortion clinic.

The lawmakers are calling on the DOJ to determine whether these deaths were the result of federal crimes, including infanticide or violations of the Partial-Birth Abortion Ban Act.

“The Biden DOJ turned a blind eye to these atrocious acts and refused to uphold the law. These five babies were robbed of their lives, and those responsible must be held accountable," said Rep. Fischbach. "We are calling on President Trump’s DOJ to treat these horrific deaths with the seriousness they deserve, perform complete autopsies, and deliver long-overdue justice for these children.”

In their letter, the coalition of lawmakers requests that the DOJ:

Promptly complete a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding each child's death.
Perform full autopsies and preserve all collected forensic evidence.
Ensure proper, respectful burials for the infants once the investigation is concluded.

Background

In March 2022, the bodies of five late-term babies were recovered by the Metropolitan Police Department after being aborted at the Washington Surgi-Clinic, operated by late-term abortionist Dr. Cesare Santangelo. Medical experts who reviewed photographs of the deceased children found that four were viable premature infants, and at least one child bore severe injuries consistent with an illegal partial-birth abortion.

If performed while the child was alive, such procedures directly violate the Partial-Birth Abortion Ban Act of 2003, which criminalizes the partial delivery of a living child to intentionally take their life.

Despite repeated congressional inquiries, including a previous April 2022 bicameral letter, the Biden Administration's DOJ failed to conduct a comprehensive investigation and reportedly advised the Chief Medical Examiner to discard the infants' remains.

The full text of the letter can be found here.

Over 100 Organizations Voice Support for Rep. Fischbach's Biobased Materials Investment & Production Act

Wed, 196 Jul 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach (MN-07) announced that 105 organizations from across the agricultural, manufacturing, and scientific sectors have signed a joint letter of support for HR 8137, the Biobased Materials Investment and Production Act.

In the letter, the coalition emphasizes that the legislation offers a practical, bipartisan approach to expanding the American bioeconomy and enhancing national security.

"The support from over 100 organizations shows just how vital this legislation is for our agriculture and manufacturing sectors," said Rep. Fischbach. "By utilizing American-grown crops to manufacture everyday products, this bill will drive investment to our rural communities and open new markets for our farmers."

Background:

HR 8137 was introduced earlier this year in a bipartisan effort, with Democratic Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski (IL-13), to provide tax incentives for the production of biobased chemicals and materials. The legislation allows taxpayers to select the incentive structure that best aligns with their business model:

Production Support: A tax credit of $0.10 per pound for renewable materials produced and sold, up to $10 million a year, or
Investment Support: A 30% investment tax credit to help offset the capital costs of constructing or retrofitting manufacturing plants.

As highlighted in the letter, a strengthened US bioeconomy will create new economic opportunities for rural communities, increase market opportunities for farmers, and expand choices for consumers. Additionally, by reducing reliance on foreign supply chains, H.R. 8137 will directly strengthen national security while enhancing American competitiveness on the global stage.

Read the letter and view supporters here.

Rep. Fischbach, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan DEF Act to Protect Farmers, Truckers, and Operators

Tue, 195 Jul 2026 12:00:00 EST

Washington, DC – Representatives Michelle Fischbach (MN-07), Julie Fedorchak (ND-AL), Don Davis (NC-01), Jack Bergman (MI-01), and Brad Finstad (MN-01) have introduced the Diesel Engine Flexibility (DEF) Act. This legislation provides 10 years of legal protection for companies that follow the EPA's 2025 and 2026 guidelines, reducing unnecessary engine shutdowns caused by faulty DEF sensors while maintaining emissions protections.

"Hardworking Minnesotans should not be penalized by bureaucracy when a sensor malfunctions. The DEF Act provides a vital, 10-year legal shield that protects our agricultural and trucking industries from unnecessary shutdowns, keeping supply chains moving while maintaining existing emissions standards," said Rep. Fischbach. "This is a common-sense solution for rural America."

"Farmers, truckers, and equipment operators depend on reliable equipment to keep our economy moving. They shouldn't be sidelined by faulty sensors or unnecessary shutdowns that have nothing to do with actual emissions," Fedorchak said. "The DEF Act brings commonsense certainty by preserving the EPA's updated guidance in law while creating a stable regulatory framework for the next decade. It gives manufacturers, operators, and independent technicians the certainty they need to invest, innovate, and keep equipment running without sacrificing emissions performance."

“When a tractor or truck sits idle, farmers, truckers, manufacturers, and small businesses feel the pain. They rely on reliable diesel-powered equipment every day. The Diesel Engine Flexibility Act would reduce unnecessary downtime caused by faulty emissions sensors while keeping every existing emissions standard in place, said Davis. “It's a practical solution that supports jobs, strengthens our rural economy, and helps keep America fed and our communities growing.”

“Due to previous EPA guidelines, our nation’s farmers were required to rely on faulty DEF sensors and mandates. As a fourth-generation farmer, I am proud to join Congresswoman Fedorchak in introducing the DEF Act, which will codify the recently improved EPA guidance for diesel engines and vehicles, providing increased flexibility and clarity for folks in farm country – no matter the administration,” said Finstad.

Faulty DEF sensors and rigid EPA engine shutdown requirements are costing farmers, truckers, and operators time and money, often through no fault of their own. The DEF Act addresses this by strengthening monitoring capabilities, limiting engine shutdowns and performance reductions, and providing independent technicians with legal clarity to service their customers’ equipment. Specifically, the legislation:

Creates a 10-year statutory safe harbor for EPA diesel emissions guidance issued in 2025 and 2026.
Allows EPA to continue approving software updates, diagnostic improvements, recalls, and other administrative actions consistent with the guidance.
Requires future emissions standards to include meaningful lead times, including at least three model years of applicability and five years before taking effect.
Directs EPA to consider reducing unnecessary shutdowns, derates, and operational disruptions when developing future emissions regulations.

Without congressional action, these improvements remain subject to future administrative changes. The DEF Act provides long-term certainty for equipment owners, manufacturers, and technicians.

Rep. Fischbach Co-Leads FRAUD Act to Crack Down on State Leaders Who Fail to Report Taxpayer Theft

Wed, 189 Jul 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach (MN-07) joined the Minnesota Congressional Republican Delegation in introducing the Federal Responsibility and Accountability for Unchecked Dereliction (FRAUD) Act to strengthen accountability when state officials become aware of fraud involving federal funds. This legislation follows a House Oversight Committee report that found that high-level Minnesota state officials, including Governor Tim Walz and Attorney General Keith Ellison, had known about the fraud in Minnesota since 2019 and repeatedly failed to act.

"The scale of fraud we saw in Minnesota is flat-out unacceptable, and it’s infuriating that Governor Walz and other state leaders looked the other way while billions were stolen," said Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach. "They need to be held accountable. We need the FRAUD Act in place so the next Minnesota governor, or any future leader, will never be allowed to let something like this happen again. Taxpayers deserve to know their hard-earned money is actually being protected."

Here's what the rest of the delegation had to say about this legislation:

“Billions of taxpayer dollars were stolen in Minnesota because state leaders like Tim Walz looked the other way and even threatened to retaliate against state whistleblowers who tried to sound the alarm," said Congressman Pete Stauber. "To this day, none of these so-called leaders have been held accountable for this stunning failure of public trust. My FRAUD Act will change that by ensuring any official who knowingly fails to report fraud faces criminal prosecution and is never able to oversee the distribution of federal funds ever again. Turning a blind eye to fraud is just as bad as committing it, and it’s time the consequences reflect that.”

“Fraud is wrong, plain and simple. Unfortunately, we have state leaders who ignored and enabled the problem, resulting in billions of dollars in fraud," said Congressman Tom Emmer. “The House Oversight Committee confirmed what we all knew: Governor Walz and other state officials were aware of the fraud and yet did nothing. The FRAUD Act will ensure accountability and protect taxpayer funds.”

“In Minnesota, and across the country, a state’s highest elected officials – those responsible for safeguarding taxpayer dollars – have an obligation to take action against fraud when it’s reported," said Congressman Brad Finstad. "I am committed to bringing accountability to Gov. Walz and Attorney General Ellison for ignoring the rampant fraud that’s robbed our fellow Minnesotans of billions of dollars, and am proud to support the FRAUD Act to restore transparency and accountability in federally funded, state administrated programs.”

Specifically, the FRAUD Act will:

Require a Governor, state agency head, or State Inspector General who receives a credible fraud warning involving federal funds to report it to the FBI within 180 days.
Require states to certify annually their compliance with the reporting requirements to remain eligible for certain federal funding.
Impose criminal penalties on officials who knowingly fail to report fraud or obstruct federal, state, or inspector general investigations.
Allow federal agencies to prohibit or debar convicted officials from overseeing the distribution of federal funds.

Rep. Fischbach Introduces the Securing Agriculture’s Workforce Act to Deliver Long-Overdue Relief to Western Minnesota Farmers

Tue, 188 Jul 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, DC - Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach (MN-07) joined House Agriculture Committee Chairman Glenn "GT" Thompson last week as an original cosponsor of the Securing Agriculture’s Workforce Act. This legislation modernizes the H-2A agricultural worker program, delivering labor flexibility and financial predictability to agricultural producers.

"Our hard-working farmers should not have to fight through mountains of federal red tape just to feed and fuel our country," said Rep. Fischbach. "Rigid and outdated H-2A program requirements have ignored the realities of modern farming, leaving our local ag economy without a strong workforce. This producer-backed bill answers the calls of our farmers by cutting compliance costs and establishing a stable, predictable framework so our agricultural community can thrive."

“There is no greater national security threat than disruptions to our food supply,” Rep. Thompson said. “The Securing Agriculture’s Workforce Act of 2026 makes the practical, commonsense reforms required to prevent these disruptions by providing a workforce that meets agriculture’s needs—now and in the future.”

The Securing Agriculture’s Workforce Act includes several reforms specifically designed to alleviate the agriculture workforce constraints by:

Extending the length of H-2A temporary worker definitions to 350 days. This expansion is the critical step needed for dairy, poultry, and specialty crop operations to qualify for the H-2A program.
Eliminating the requirement that H-2A workers be classified as "seasonal," changing the definition to "temporary" to accommodate operations that require year-round labor.
Establishing a single online platform shared by the Departments of Labor, Homeland Security, and State to streamline applications.
Capping annual wage changes, reducing compliance burdens, and streamlining housing inspections to reduce overhead costs.

Stauber Introduces FRAUD Act to Crack Down on State Leaders Who Fail to Report Taxpayer Theft

Thu, 183 Jul 2026 12:00:00 EST

WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, Congressman Pete Stauber (MN-08) introduced the Federal Responsibility and Accountability for Unchecked Dereliction (FRAUD) Act to strengthen accountability when state officials become aware of significant fraud involving federal funds. This legislation comes on the heels of the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform’s bombshell report finding that high-level Minnesota state officials – including Governor Tim Walz and Attorney General Keith Ellison – knew of widespread fraud in Minnesota since 2019 and repeatedly failed to act.

“Billions of taxpayer dollars were stolen in Minnesota because state leaders like Tim Walz looked the other way and even threatened to retaliate against state whistleblowers who tried to sound the alarm," said Congressman Pete Stauber. "To this day, none of these so-called leaders have been held accountable for this stunning failure of public trust. My FRAUD Act will change that by ensuring any official who knowingly fails to report fraud faces criminal prosecution and is never able to oversee the distribution of federal funds ever again. Turning a blind eye to fraud is just as bad as committing it, and it’s time the consequences reflect that.”

Congressman Stauber was joined by his Minnesota Republican delegation colleagues in introducing this legislation.

“Fraud is wrong, plain and simple. Unfortunately, we have state leaders who ignored and enabled the problem, resulting in billions of dollars in fraud," said Congressman Tom Emmer. “The House Oversight Committee confirmed what we all knew: Governor Walz and other state officials were aware of the fraud and yet did nothing. The FRAUD Act will ensure accountability and protect taxpayer funds.”

“In Minnesota, and across the country, a state’s highest elected officials – those responsible for safeguarding taxpayer dollars – have an obligation to take action against fraud when it’s reported," said Congressman Brad Finstad. "I am committed to bringing accountability to Gov. Walz and Attorney General Ellison for ignoring the rampant fraud that’s robbed our fellow Minnesotans of billions of dollars, and am proud to support the FRAUD Act to restore transparency and accountability in federally funded, state administrated programs.”

"The scale of fraud we saw in Minnesota is flat-out unacceptable, and it’s infuriating that Governor Walz and other state leaders looked the other way while billions were stolen," said Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach. "They need to be held accountable. We need the FRAUD Act in place so the next Minnesota governor, or any future leader, will never be allowed to let something like this happen again. Taxpayers deserve to know their hard-earned money is actually being protected."

Specifically, the FRAUD Act will do the following:

Require a Governor, state agency head, or State Inspector General who receives a credible fraud warning involving federal funds to report it to the FBI within 180 days.
Require states to annually certify compliance with these reporting requirements in order to remain eligible for certain federal funding.
Impose criminal penalties on covered officials who knowingly fail to report fraud or obstruct federal, state, or inspector general investigations.
Allow federal agencies to prohibit or debar convicted officials from overseeing the distribution of federal funds.

Original Article

New chief federal judge named for District of Minnesota

Wed, 182 Jul 2026 12:00:00 EST

Minnesota’s federal bench has a new chief judge.

Eric Tostrud on Wednesday was named the District of Minnesota’s new top judge, taking over for U.S. District Chief Judge Patrick Schiltz, who announced last year that he would assume senior status, a form of semi-retirement, starting July 1.

Tostrud has served on Minnesota’s federal bench since 2018 after being nominated by President Donald Trump during his first term and clearing the Senate by a unanimous vote.

A St. Paul native, Tostrud graduated from the William Mitchell College of Law and went on to clerk for former Judge Edward J. Devitt and Judge George E. MacKinnon at the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit.

His entire career as an attorney was spent handling complex litigation focused on health care, insurance coverage and fraud at the Lockridge Grindal Nauen firm. He also taught as an adjunct professor at the William Mitchell College of Law and the University of Minnesota Law School. He founded St. Olaf College’s Kloeck-Jenson Endowment for Peace and Justice Studies, a program that funds social entrepreneurship and public service opportunities for students.

Tostrud assumes the role at a time when Minnesota’s federal bench continues to see fallout from Operation Metro Surge, which brought a number of high-profile legal fights and a flood of immigration cases to the courts.

Schiltz, his predecessor, emerged as a critic of the Trump administration’s tactics during the height of the operation as immigration cases strained attorneys and, at times, led to civil contempt findings. The frustration came to a head when Schiltz ordered then-acting director of ICE, Todd Lyons, to his courtroom to explain mishandling of immigration cases. Schiltz backed off from the threat after the agency fulfilled his conditions.

Most recently, Schiltz issued another blow to the Justice Department by blocking a half-dozen subpoenas against Gov. Tim Walz, Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey and other elected officials. Schiltz, a George W. Bush appointee, ruled the subpoenas were politically motivated, unconstitutional and without merit.

In a final note to the court, Schiltz recalled that he assumed the role of chief judge four years ago with the aspiration to be the “Benjamin Harrison” of chief judges, referring to the former U.S. president that “no one remembers because nothing of note happened during his term.”

“God laughed,” he wrote. Schiltz said a number of challenges had hit the courts even before Metro Surge, including high-risk fraud and gang trials. “Our work is not done, but fortunately the Court is in good hands.”

Schiltz said Tostrud served as an important consult and partner over the last four years.

“He is wise, unselfish, hardworking, unflappable, honest, and courageous,” Schiltz wrote. “He will be a great Chief Judge.”

Minnesota’s Republican congressional delegation in February recommended two candidates to fill the seat on the bench left by Schiltz. U.S. Reps. Tom Emmer, Pete Stauber, Michelle Fischbach and Brad Finstad recommended Minneapolis attorney David Asp, a partner at Lockridge Grindal Nauen, and Jamie Anderson, a Minnesota District Court Judge.

Original Article

Fischbach Staff to Hold Mobile Office Hours in Ada on July 17

Tue, 181 Jun 2026 12:00:00 EST

Staff from the Office of Congresswoman Michelle Fischbach will be holding mobile office hours in Ada at the Ada Event Center (415 W Main St.) on July 17th, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM.