Moran, Nathaniel RSS Articles

Moran, Cornyn Spotlight Rural Health Challenges, Solutions During East Texas Visit

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

During National Public Health Week, Rep. Nathaniel Moran (TX-01) joined Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) in Tyler for a meeting with East Texas health care providers, educators, and community leaders at the University of Texas at Tyler Health Science Center.

During the visit, Moran and Cornyn met with stakeholders from across the region to hear how the Rural Health Transformation (RHT) Program is helping hospitals, clinics, and providers modernize health systems to better meet the needs of their communities. They also toured the UT Tyler Health Science Center’s new Helicopter Critical Care Transport Simulation Center.

“In our district, we heard from counties that have lost their rural hospitals, and in places like Marion County, there is no medical facility, no doctor, and no pharmacy,” said Rep. Moran. “That’s simply not acceptable. When we see these health care deserts, we must build partnerships with providers to expand access to quality care. The best solutions don’t emanate in Washington—they come from local providers and community leaders who understand the real challenges on the ground. Our goal is to work alongside them to close those gaps and ensure every East Texan has access to the care they need.”

“Congressman Moran and I worked with President Trump to bolster federal investment in rural health care by passing the Working Families Tax Cuts Act, and one piece of that is the $50 billion Rural Health Transformation Program to help hospitals, clinics, and providers in East Texas and around our state, around the nation, to modernize our health systems and provide access to health care,” said Sen. Cornyn. “I'm proud that we secured $281 million in funding for rural access to health care in Texas for one year, and that is going to be done over a five-year period.”

“We appreciate Congressman Moran and Senator Cornyn for bringing providers, local leaders, and educators to the same table,” said Chad Jones, CEO of Wellness Pointe. “Rural communities benefit most when hospitals, health centers, behavioral health providers, and county leaders work from one local plan instead of building parallel systems.”

“We are grateful to Senator Cornyn and Congressman Moran for visiting our campus to engage directly with community leaders and health professionals on the challenges and opportunities facing rural health,” said UT Tyler President Julie V. Philley, MD. “We appreciate all efforts—across government, education and health care—to strengthen access to quality care for rural communities.”

Background:

The RHT Program was established under the Working Families Tax Cuts Act, also known as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which allocated $50 billion over five years through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to strengthen access to care and modernize health systems in rural areas.

Texas is set to receive the largest share of any state—more than $281 millionthis year.Over the past decade, 14 rural hospitals in Texas have closed, and dozens more are at risk. Nearly 60% of rural hospitals no longer deliver babies, and Texas currently ranks last nationwide in funding per rural resident. Local governments, rural hospitals, and health care providers will be able to apply for grants starting this spring.

Participants included Dr. Julie Philley, president of the University of Texas at Tyler; Kevin Lambing, RHTP consultant for the Texas Organization of Rural Community Hospitals (TORCH); Luke Schwartz, medical student and UT student regent; Jared Smith, CEO of UT Health East Texas; Chad Jones, CEO of Wellness Pointe; Robert Newsom, county judge of Hopkins County; Allison Harbison, county judge of Shelby County; Kaylee McDaniel, hospital administrator of Sabine County Hospital; Becki Mangum, CEO of Andrews Center; and Dr. Kristin Ault, family physician at Family First of Jacksonville.

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Congressman Moran Applauds $80 Million Army Investment in Red River Army Depot

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

U.S. Rep. Nathaniel Moran (TX-01) applauded the Department of the Army’s announcement of an $80 million contract awarded to Hadrian Automation Inc. to launch the first phase of an Advanced Automation Manufacturing project at Red River Army Depot (RRAD) in Bowie County.

The investment will establish a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in the region, accelerate production of critical components for next-generation weapons systems, and solidify East Texas as a critical hub in America’s defense manufacturing network.

“This is exactly the kind of bold investment our national security demands—an innovative factory of the future—and I am proud it’s happening right here in Northeast Texas,” said Congressman Moran. “This $80 million investment is a reflection of the confidence in RRAD’s capacity to support the future of America’s defense. Our region has the infrastructure, the expertise, and the commitment to get this done. I look forward to seeing RRAD lead the way in modernizing how our Army equips our warfighters.”

Support from the Army

“To maintain a decisive edge, we must overhaul how we build and sustain our equipment,” said Brent Ingraham, Assistant Secretary of the Army for Acquisition, Logistics and Technology. “This contract is a prime example of how we are leveraging commercial innovation to build a more robust and efficient industrial base that will deliver advanced capabilities to the warfighter faster and more reliably than ever before.”

“We are collaborating with industry, other military services, and academia to achieve maximum capacity and learn how best to implement advanced manufacturing at every echelon,” said Lt. Gen. Chris Mohan, commanding general of Army Materiel Command. “Advanced manufacturing is a foundational capability that supports building ready combat formations across the Army, and we must build and leverage our organic capability, as well as that of industry.”

Background

For more than 80 years, Red River Army Depot has stood as one of the U.S. Army’s most vital logistics and maintenance installations. Located in Bowie County, RRAD is a cornerstone of the Army's Organic Industrial Base (OIB), the network of government-owned facilities that keeps American warfighters equipped and ready. RRAD also serves as a major employer of skilled workers across the East Texas region.

The contract was awarded to Hadrian Automation Inc. under a Commercial Solutions Opening posted in January 2026, with an initial value of $39.2 million and a total cumulative value of $80 million. The investment will establish a cutting-edge manufacturing facility in Texarkana focused on producing components for weapon systems, including small unmanned aerial systems, with work scheduled for completion by March 2027.

For more information, see the Department of the Army's release here.

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VIDEO: Congressman Moran Warns of China’s Aggressive Push to Dominate Pharmaceuticals and Biotechnology

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

During a hearing of the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party, U.S. Rep. Nathaniel Moran (TX-01) highlighted China’s aggressive efforts to dominate the pharmaceutical and biotechnology sectors and stressed the need for the United States to maintain its edge in medical innovation and supply chain security.

“The United States has historically led the world in medical innovation, and that leadership did not happen by accident,” Moran said. “It grew from a culture that values scientific inquiry, protects intellectual property, and respects the dignity of every patient who participates in research. But the global landscape has changed quickly.

“China has made biotechnology and pharmaceuticals a national priority, with a clear goal: to compete with and ultimately surpass American firms,” Moran continued. “Today, for certain essential generic medicines, China is already the dominant, or even sole, producer of key active pharmaceutical ingredients. That is why American leadership in emerging pharmaceutical technologies is so critical. Innovation is America’s strength. It always has been, and we must ensure the United States continues to lead.”

Watch Congressman Moran’s Opening Remarks and Exchange HERE

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Moran Signs Letter Urging Trump Administration to Combat Illegal Chinese Vapes

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

U.S. Rep. Nathaniel Moran (TX-01) joined 70 of his House colleagues in a letter to Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer urging the Trump Administration to address the flood of illegal Chinese e-cigarettes entering American markets without FDA approval.

Led by Rep. Mike Carey (OH-15), the letter calls on the administration to make curbing illicit Chinese vape imports a priority in any future trade negotiations with China.

"These illegal Chinesevapes are a threat on every front. They contain toxic levels of lead and carcinogens, and are deliberately marketed to target our kids with candy flavors and social media influencers. They are sold near schools and military bases by foreign nationals, and their 'smart' technology risks funneling sensitive data directly to the Chinese Communist Party," said Moran. "This is not an accident—it is a deliberate strategy by Beijing. Meanwhile, Mexican drug cartels have seized on this trade as a revenue stream, with federal authorities tracing these sales to cartel operations and fentanyl proceeds. The United States cannot stand idle. Any trade deal with China must include a binding commitment to stop this—full stop."

The letter highlights that Chinese vape exports to the U.S. surpassed $10 billion in 2025, that so-called "smart vapes" pose cybersecurity risks to military personnel, and that illicit e-cigarette sales have become a revenue stream for Mexican drug cartels with ties to fentanyl operations.

Full text of the letter can be found here or below:

Dear Secretary Bessent and Ambassador Greer:

As trade discussions with the People’s Republic of China (PRC) advance, it is critical that the United States Trade Representative (USTR) and the Department of the Treasury confront the ongoing exploitation of our trade system. Any new trade agreement with China should require the Chinese government, through its oversight of e-cigarette exports, to take decisive action to curb the influx of illegal, youth-oriented e-cigarettes that openly flout U.S. and Chinese law.

The Administration has made clear that stopping the flow of dangerous and plainly illegal Chinese e-cigarettes is a national priority. We commend the important work of U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers, who continue to intercept illicit, often misdeclared, shipments. Despite these efforts, Chinese e-cigarette exports to the United States continued to rise during the final quarter of 2025, surpassing $10 billion in that year.

These devices are a threat to national security. The Department of Justice has reported that unauthorized vapes are frequently smuggled from China and sold near schools and military bases, putting minors and service members at risk. The Drug Enforcement Administration has investigated vape shops in proximity to military installations and found that many are owned or operated by foreign nationals suspected of deliberately targeting military personnel. One joint operation led to 20 arrests, including three Chinese nationals.

The emergence of Chinese “smart vapes”—which connect to smartphones—poses an additional cybersecurity threat. These devices may enable unauthorized access to personal data, cameras, microphones, geolocations, and networks. If used by military personnel, sensitive information could flow directly to the Chinese Communist Party under China’s 2017 National Intelligence Law, which requires companies to cooperate with state intelligence services.

Given the threat these devices pose, the U.S. government should aggressively counter the source of these products. It is far more efficient to prevent these products from entering the United States from China than it is to intercept such products once they have entered the U.S. domestic supply chain. Chinese law bans manufacturers from shipping e-cigarettes to a country where those products are illegal.8 Although the State Tobacco Monopoly Administration (STMA) exerts extensive control over the e-cigarette- industry in China, including the export of such products, the STMA has allowed massive quantities of illegal e-cigarettes shipments to the United States. This is not an administrative lapse; it appears to be a deliberate strategy on the part of the STMA that capitalizes on gaps in U.S. enforcement. Any forthcoming agreement with the PRC must ensure that the STMA enforces its existing rules on these illegal exports.

The need for action is urgent. Illicit Chinese e-cigarette makers and their U.S. distributors intentionally design and market products to appeal to young people—using candy flavored cartridges, toy-like designs, and packaging styled after fashion accessories. They rely on influencer marketing on youth-heavy platforms such as TikTok and Instagram. These illegal products often contain carcinogens, toxic additives, and high levels of heavy metals like lead, along with other unknown substances.

Moreover, the illicit e-cigarette- trade has become an attractive revenue stream for Mexican drug cartels. Associated Press reporting indicates that cartels have secured a dominant share of the illegal market in Mexico and are continuing to expand their operations in the United States. E-cigarette sales are illegal in Mexico, but demand for these products still exists which has likely led to the rise of cartel involvement in the sale of these devices. The Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (a bureau of the Department of the Treasury) has identified these products as a vehicle for trade-based money laundering schemes tied to fentanyl proceeds, and the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms has similarly traced funds from illicit Chinese e-cigarette sales to foreign adversaries and cartel operations inside the United States.

For these reasons, we strongly urge the USTR to elevate this matter in ongoing trade negotiations with China and to pursue a binding commitment requiring the Chinese government to stop all e-cigarette exports that fail to comply with U.S. and Chinese law. U.S. national security and public health require nothing less.

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Fox News: 40+ House Republicans rally behind Markwayne Mullin for DHS, call it a ‘critical moment’ for border security

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Nearly 50 House Republicans are writing to President Donald Trump backing Sen. Markwayne Mullin, R-Okla., to lead the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) after Kristi Noem's ouster.

The pragmatist GOP Main Street Caucus is taking a formal stance, endorsing Mullin on Monday, as well as backing a targeted crackdown on illegal immigrant criminals in the U.S.

It's a rare formal statement by the House Republican group, led by both Chairman Mike Flood, R-Neb., and Rep. Nick LaLota, R-N.Y., and signed by 47 other GOP lawmakers.

"Senator Mullin has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to border security. His familiarity with the legislative process and his longstanding support for pro-America policies make him well-suited to lead DHS at this critical moment," the letter said. "We are confident he will bring the focus and discipline necessary to further our shared priorities."

Trump tapped Mullin to lead the department last week while announcing that Noem would no longer serve in his Cabinet. He instead established a new role for her as special envoy at a new Trump-created initiative called Shield of the Americas.

The vast majority of Republican lawmakers immediately hailed Mullin's nomination, particularly as criticism was steadily growing of Noem's handling of DHS.

Among the most volatile chapters in her tenure occurred during Trump's immigration operation in Minneapolis, which inspired bipartisan calls for restraint amid city-wide protests over the federal agent-involved killing of two U.S. citizens.

Trump responded to the uproar by upending federal leadership there, replacing Noem-empowered Greg Bovino of Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) with border czar Tom Homan.

The Main Street Caucus letter revealed that more than two dozen lawmakers in the group met with Trump's Homan last week while praising his handling of immigration enforcement across the country.

"As members of the Republican Main Street Caucus, a group of more than 85 House conservatives focused on governing and producing legislative results, we write to express our strong support for the work of Tom Homan and his efforts to strengthen our nation’s immigration enforcement in his role as White House Border Czar," the letter said.

"Last week, approximately two dozen members of our caucus met with Mr. Homan to discuss the current state of immigration enforcement and the steps necessary to strengthen public safety while restoring confidence in federal immigration law."

Among the agreed-upon initiatives, the letter said, was keeping Trump's immigration crackdown focused on people who commit crimes within the U.S.

"First, enforcement efforts should remain focused on the worst criminal offenders. Prioritizing the removal of individuals who pose the greatest threats to public safety ensures that federal resources are used effectively while protecting American families and communities," they wrote.

It's a notable point given past criticism of DHS, from both sides of the aisle, about indiscriminate targeting of undocumented people in places like federal courthouses during routine immigration appointments.

They also called for the repeal of policies in sanctuary jurisdictions that "undermine public safety and hinder lawful immigration enforcement" and giving federal authorities "access to local jails before criminal aliens are released."

"Finally, we agreed there should be clear communication from ICE to the American people and to Congress regarding its success in deporting the worst criminal offenders—individuals with records of assault, battery, rape, DUI, and other serious crimes," the letter said.

The lawmakers added that "Homan’s approach reflects those principles, and we believe his leadership will continue to strengthen the federal government’s ability to enforce immigration laws in a targeted and effective manner."

By Elizabeth Elkind
Fox News Reporter

Moran, Van Orden Introduce Bill to Invest in Fathers, Sons, and the Future of American Families

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 05:00:00 GMT

U.S. Representatives Nathaniel Moran (TX-01) and Derrick Van Orden (WI-03) introduced the White House Council on Fathers and Sons Act of 2026, legislation establishing a council responsible for coordinating efforts across agencies to address challenges facing fathers and young men. The council would promote the involvement of fathers in families, help address rising mental health challenges among males, and support the development of programs that help young men develop successfully into adulthood.

“For too long, our society has stood by as young men fall behind in our classrooms and fatherhood becomes increasingly absent in too many families and communities,” said Congressman Moran. “This legislation is necessary to acknowledge that—in addition to the important role that mothers play—strong men are needed to raise strong families. This intentional acknowledgement of the federal government of the important role that fathers play in the institution of the family, will change generations to come for the better—for everyone.”

“Today, too many fathers and sons face challenges that threaten the stability of our families and communities,” said Congressman Van Orden. “From declining educational attainment and stagnant wages to rising mental health struggles, men and boys are being left behind. This legislation takes a practical step toward addressing those issues by bringing federal agencies together to support effective programs and opportunities that will ensure that young men and fathers across our nation have the guidance they need to succeed. Strong men build strong families, and strong families build a stronger America.”

Background:

Today, men and boys—both fathers and sons—are facing more hardships than ever before. Fewer college degrees are now being awarded to men than women, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. Men are now earning less per week than they were in 1979, according to the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis. Men and boys are struggling with pressures and issues not faced by previous generations and are paying with their lives. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, suicide rates among men and boys has risen steadily between 2001-2021. In 2021, the suicide rate among males was 4 times higher (22.8 per 100,000) than among females (5.7 per 100,000). To make matters worse, according to Richard V. Reeves’ book Of Boys and Men, we know public programs aimed at today’s youth, both boys and girls, are not adequately reaching boys in their impact.

Under the bill, leaders from major federal departments—including Health and Human Services, Education, Labor, and Veterans Affairs—would participate in the council to coordinate solutions and review programs affecting fathers and sons. The council would also consult with state and local governments, nonprofit organizations, and faith-based institutions to identify effective strategies and share best practices to promote the important role of men in the institution of the family instead of diluting it.

If enacted, the council would provide periodic reports to the President outlining federal programs affecting fathers and sons and recommending ways to strengthen family support nationwide.

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Moran, Cruz Introduce Legislation to Deter Non-Profit Sponsorships of Left-Wing Radicals

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 05:00:00 GMT

U.S. Rep. Nathaniel Moran (TX-01) and Sen. Ted Cruz (TX) introduced the Stop Proxy Organizations Nurturing Subversive Operations and Riots (SPONSOR) Act, bicameral legislation that will prevent nonprofit organizations from funneling money to progressive, left-wing organizations that intentionally agitate or seek to cause harm and destruction in our country.

This legislation will penalize large 501(c)(3) organizations by holding them liable for the conduct of the projects they sponsor for actions such as burning down cities, rioting outside government facilities, college campuses, or even in places of worship. The bill amends Section 501 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to close loopholes by establishing legal accountability between sponsoring organizations and their sponsored projects.

“Taxpayers deserve to know their hard-earned dollars aren’t subsidizing chaos under the cover of charity,” said Congressman Moran. “This legislation closes loopholes bad actors have exploited for too long, ensuring fiscal sponsors can’t simply look te other way while funded projects undermine the law. Accountability is the foundation of public trust.”

“Loopholes in the Internal Revenue Code allow radical groups to use tax-exempt funds to bankroll violent, anti-American activity opaquely and therefore with impunity,” said Senator Cruz. “The violence that has spread in recent years in our cities and on our college campuses is not organic. It is enabled by funding from well-resourced organizations that exploit such loopholes, including and especially through fiscal sponsorships. My legislation closes these loopholes, and I urge my colleagues to advance it with the necessary expediency.”

Background:

Fiscal sponsorship allows new organizations to operate under the umbrella of an established nonprofit while receiving tax-deductible donations. However, under current practice, these arrangements can continue indefinitely and often allow sponsored projects to avoid filing their own public disclosure forms, limiting transparency and accountability.

In recent years, some radical activist groups have used these structures to raise funds while engaging in activities such as blocking highways, occupying buildings, vandalizing property, and disrupting interstate commerce. In some cases, organizations operating under fiscal sponsorship have even been linked to networks accused of raising money for designated terrorist organizations.

The SPONSOR Act would ensure that nonprofit sponsors bear civil and criminal liability when funds they administer are used to support illegal activities, including aiding international terrorism, intimidating individuals exercising constitutional rights, or obstructing commerce. The bill also establishes a presumption that sponsoring organizations are responsible for ensuring proper oversight of funds distributed through fiscal sponsorship.

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Congressman Moran Announces $1.5 Million in Funding Secured for Shelby County Infrastructure

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 05:00:00 GMT

U.S. Rep. Nathaniel Moran (TX-01) announced $1.55 million in funding for Shelby County’s interoperable communications infrastructure through FY2026 Community Project Funding, which was signed into law by President Trump on Jan. 22, 2026.

This funding provides for new interoperable radio infrastructure which will connect to the Texas Wide Area Radio Network (TxWARN). TxWARN currently serves over 260 public safety agencies including military, federal, state, and local authorities. Shelby County will work with local partners to place new 700-800 MHz interoperable radio transmitting equipment on existing towers in Shelby County.

“Investing in our infrastructure will ensure our first responders have the communication tools they need to protect Shelby County residents,” said Congressman Moran. “This funding will make our communities safer, our communication systems stronger, and bring Shelby County infrastructure to the 21st century. This is a critical investment in our shared future and will make a tangible difference in residents' daily lives and safety.”

Stakeholder Support:

The Honorable Allison Harbison, Shelby County Judge, said: “This funding represents a milestone for Shelby County’s public safety infrastructure. I’m proud to have partnered with Congressman Moran to enhance our first responders’ ability to protect our community. We are closing dangerous communication gaps that have existed for far too long. This funding will ensure our law enforcement, fire, and emergency medical personnel can coordinate seamlessly when every second counts.”

Lonnie Hunt, Executive Director, Deep East Texas Council of Governments (DETCOG), said: “We are so appreciative of Congressman Moran’s efforts to secure this funding for Shelby County. The lack of reliable communications has been a longstanding problem not only in Shelby County but throughout the Deep East Texas region. Significant portions of our rural region currently experience unreliable or nonexistent radio coverage, creating serious risk during fires, major accidents, and other emergencies. Reliable radio coverage is essential for coordinated response and officer safety. These improvements in Shelby County will strengthen the regional interoperable radio system and ensure law enforcement, fire departments, EMS and emergency management personnel can communicate clearly across jurisdictional lines.”

Background:

Interoperable communications systems enable seamless communications between different emergency response agencies during critical incidents. The TxWARN is a statewide radio system that provides reliable voice and data communications for public safety and homeland security officials. The goal of the funding is to eliminate communications gaps that currently exist in Shelby County, ensuring first responders can coordinate effectively during emergencies, natural disasters, and day-to-day operations.

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ICYMI: Moran Introduces Bill to Expand Education Access for Foster Youth

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT

U.S. Representatives Nathaniel Moran (TX-01) and Judy Chu (CA-28) introduced the bipartisan Foster Youth Postsecondary Education Access and Success Act, legislation aimed at expanding and modernizing the Education and Training Voucher (ETV) program under the John H. Chafee Foster Care Program for Successful Transition to Adulthood (“Chafee program”).

The legislation removes longstanding financial and administrative barriers that prevent foster youth from accessing and completing postsecondary education. The bill represents a significant bipartisan commitment to improving outcomes for one of the nation’s most underserved student populations.

“Every young person who has spent time in our foster care system deserves a real shot at accessing a quality job through higher education or skills-based training,” said Congressman Moran. “The Education and Training Voucher Program has served many foster youth but President Trump and the First Lady have called for modernizing the program to empower young people aging out of foster care. These common-sense policies will deliver practical results-driven reforms that can change lives and allow foster youth to reach their full potential.”

Key Changes in the Legislation:

Increases the maximum allowable value of the voucher from $5,000 to $12,000 per year without increasing total appropriations.
Simplifies and digitizes the application process to make the program more accessible.
Requires states to conduct active outreach to eligible youth about the ETV and its benefits.
Requires the Department of Health and Human Services to consult people with foster care lived experience when developing state guidance to ensure grace periods are allowed for students facing temporary setbacks.

This bill is endorsed by the National Foster Youth Institute (NFYI), FosterClub, Journey to Success, Child Welfare League of America (CWLA), and the National Association of Counties (NACo).

“Belief in the potential of foster youth and transition age youth must extend beyond words. Real commitment means putting resources, policies, and accountability behind that belief. The Foster Youth Postsecondary Education Access and Success Act does exactly that, strengthening pathways to higher education while investing in the future of our nation’s workforce. We thank Rep. Chu for her continued leadership and for setting a standard for translating commitment into lasting systems change for foster youth,” said Rebecca Louve Yao, CEO, National Foster Youth Institute.

“Foster youth have the same college dreams as their peers but fewer supports. Education and Training Vouchers help level the playing field, and this bill expands access. We’re grateful to Representatives Chu and Moran for listening to young people,” said Celeste Bodner, Executive Director of FosterClub, the national network for youth in foster care.

“This bipartisan bill takes a long-overdue step toward modernizing the Education and Training Voucher program so it works for today’s students. By increasing the value of the voucher, simplifying access, and ensuring eligible youth are aware of the support available, Congress is addressing real gaps that have held too many foster youth back. These practical fixes will help more young people build stable futures by creating success in school and work,” said Hope Cooper, campaign manager, Journey to Success.

Read the full text here.

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Moran Delivers $2 Million Federal Investment for Marshall Relief Route

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT

U.S. Rep. Nathaniel Moran (TX-01) announced $2 million in federal funding has been secured for the Marshall Relief Route in Harrison County. The investment, included in the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2026, will support construction of a critical new roadway connecting Loop 390 at U.S. 80 to Interstate 20 in East Texas.

This project will enhance vehicle mobility, reduce travel times, and improve safety of residents and commercial traffic traveling through the region. The relief route will support continued growth in Harrison County and position Marshall as a critical transportation hub in expanding the I-369 corridor.

“The Marshall Relief Route represents a transformational investment in East Texas infrastructure and will ensure people and goods can move efficiently,” said Congressman Moran. “Marshall has dealt with aging infrastructure for years and this will help our community build a modern, interstate-standard roadway that reduces congestion, improves safety, and strengthens our regional economy.”

Stakeholder Quotes:

The Honorable Chad Sims, Harrison County Judge, said, “We extend our sincere gratitude to Congressman Nathaniel Moran for his leadership and commitment in securing $2 million in federal funding for the Marshall Relief Route as part of the FY 2026 appropriations process. This critical investment will allow TxDOT to advance construction on the Interstate 369 section through Marshall. We are especially thankful for his efforts to ensure our federal tax dollars are coming right back home to benefit our community. Congressman Moran’s work will help move this transformative project forward, improving connectivity and fostering economic growth for our region. This is what true partnership looks like—the city, county, state, and federal government working hand in hand. Thank you, Congressman, for bringing it all together!”

Jennifer Shepard, Executive Director of the Alliance for I-69 Texas, said, “The Marshall Relief Route will be a primary building block in the development of Interstate 369 in northeast Texas. The phased development will start with a new $266 million freeway segment connecting I-20 to US 80. This congressional appropriation provides partial funding for pre-construction activities, helping ensure that construction can start as scheduled next year. This timely funding is the result of thoughtful leadership by Congressman Moran and of persistent support from community leaders in the region including members of the I-69 Alliance.”

Rush Harris, Executive Director of the Marshall Economic Development Corporation, said, “I have had numerous working interactions with Congressman Moran, and I can't say enough about the attention he gives to the City of Marshall and our Economic Development Corporation. He has been hands-on in his approach, even spurring local "rival" communities in his district to work together and bring in new investment across District 1. It's this type of leadership that can effect change in our local and regional economy. He shows up, and he works for us. I am thankful for Congressman Moran's efforts and continued dedication to Marshall and Harrison County, Texas.”

Background:

Marshall, Texas serves as a key commercial and industrial center in East Texas. The city's current roadway network channels significant through-traffic in the downtown area, creating congestion and safety concerns. The Marshall Relief Route project will construct a new roadway on the east side of the city, providing an alternative route for regional traffic and interstate commerce. The roadway is being designed to interstate standards in anticipation of future designation as Interstate 369, which would create a continuous interstate corridor connecting Texas to the broader national highway system.

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