Allen, Rick RSS Articles

Congressman Allen Announces September Community Office Hours

Thu, 27 Aug 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Today, Congressman Rick W. Allen (GA-12) announced members of his staff will host Community Office Hours across Georgia’s 12th District during the month of September.

During these events, members of Congressman Allen’s staff will be available to assist constituents with a variety of federal issues, including help navigating various federal agencies such as FEMA, Social Security, Veterans Affairs, Medicare, and others. Community Office Hours are a quarterly resource provided by Congressman Allen's staff designed to serve constituents closer to home. Congressman Allen himself will not be in attendance.

After the announcement, Congressman Allen issued the following statement:

"I invite anyone seeking help with a federal issue to take advantage of the one-on-one services my office provides. If you need assistance dealing with a federal agency, our dedicated caseworkers stand ready to help you. Please visit my team during Community Office Hours in September or contact one of our district offices for more information."

See below for a list of Community Office Hours dates, times, and locations by county (excluding counties in which Congressman Allen has a permanent office):

Burke County

WHEN: Tuesday, September 8th from 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM

WHERE: County Commission Boardroom, Burke County Courthouse

111 E. 6th Street

Waynesboro, GA 30830

Candler County

WHEN: Tuesday, September 15th from 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM

WHERE: Metter City Hall

49 S. Rountree Street

Metter, GA 30439

Columbia County

WHEN: Wednesday, September 16th from 9:30 AM – 11:00 AM

WHERE: Grovetown City Hall

103 Old Wrightsboro Road

Grovetown, GA 30813

Effingham County

WHEN: Friday, September 11 from 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM

WHERE: Effingham County Board of Commissioners Office

804 S. Laurel St, Suite 200

Springfield, GA 31329

Emanuel County

WHEN: Friday, September 18th from 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM

WHERE: Swainsboro-Emanuel County Chamber of Commerce

102 S. Main Street

Swainsboro, GA 30401

Evans County

WHEN: Tuesday, September 15th from 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM

WHERE: Strickland Center for the Arts

707 W. Main St.

Claxton, GA 30417

Glascock County

WHEN: Wednesday, September 23rd from 9:00 AM – 10:00 AM

WHERE: Family Connections & Communities in School

370 W. Main Street

Gibson, GA 30810

Jefferson County

WHEN: Wednesday, September 23rd from 12:30 PM – 2:00 PM

WHERE: Community Club House

101 McNair Street

Wrens, GA 30833

Jenkins County

WHEN: Thursday, September 17th from 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM

WHERE: Jenkins County Chamber of Commerce

548 Cotton Avenue

Millen, GA 30442

Johnson County

WHEN: Monday, September 14th from 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM

WHERE: Wrightsville City Hall

8647 S. Marcus Street

Wrightsville, GA 31096

Lincoln County

WHEN: Thursday, September 17th from 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM

WHERE: Lincoln County Courthouse

210 Humphrey Street

Lincolnton, GA 30817

McDuffie County

WHEN: Wednesday, September 23rd from 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM

WHERE: Thomson-McDuffie Administrative Building

210 Railroad Street

Thomson, GA 30824

Montgomery County

WHEN: Monday, September 21st from 10:45 AM – 12:15 PM

WHERE: Montgomery County Courthouse

400 S. Railroad Avenue

Mount Vernon, GA 30445

Screven County

WHEN: Monday, September 21st from 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM

WHERE: Screven County Courthouse, Commission Boardroom

216 Mims Road

Sylvania, GA 30467

Tattnall County

WHEN: Monday, September 14th from 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM

WHERE: Glennville Welcome Center/Chamber of Commerce

136 S. Veterans Boulevard

Glennville, GA 30427

Treutlen County

WHEN: Monday, September 21st from 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM

WHERE: Treutlen County Commissioners’ Office

1830 Martin Luther King Jr. Drive

Soperton, GA 30457

Warren County

WHEN: Wednesday, September 23rd from 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM

WHERE: Warren County Chamber of Commerce

46 Norwood Street

Warrenton, GA 30828

Washington County

WHEN: Thursday, September 24th from 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM

WHERE: Community Health Care System

220 Morningside Drive

Sandersville, GA 31082

Wheeler County

WHEN: Monday, September 21st from 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM

WHERE: Alamo City Hall

7 W. Main Street

Alamo, GA 30411

Wilkes County

WHEN: Thursday, September 17th from 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM

WHERE: Washington-Wilkes Chamber of Commerce

22B West Square

Washington, GA 30673

Congressman Allen Presents Washington County Students with Congressional Award Gold Medal

Tue, 25 Aug 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, Congressman Rick W. Allen (GA-12) visited Brentwood School in Sandersville, Georgia to present three 12th District students with the Congressional Award, the highest honor Congress presents to America's youth.

Congress established the Congressional Award in 1979 to recognize initiative, service, and achievement in young people. The Congressional Award provides a structure for young Americans to learn the value of service, personal development, fitness, and citizenship through character forming experiences that shape tomorrow’s leaders and our country’s future.

During the event at Brentwood, Congressman Allen recognized Georgia-12 students Kessler Ann Bibb, McFerrin Dean Bibb, and Mary Thomas Smith (not in attendance, now attending the University of Georgia). Following yesterday's presentation, Congressman Allen issued the statement below:

"Kessler, McFerrin, and Mary Thomas exemplify everything it means to be a young leader. The Congressional Award is the highest honor Congress presents to America's youth, and these students were among only 19 young Georgians who were recognized in the 2026 Gold Medal Class," said Congressman Allen. "Kessler, McFerrin, and Mary Thomas set out on this journey nearly three years ago, completing hundreds of hours of voluntary service, personal development, and physical fitness on their way to receiving this distinguished award. It was an honor to join the students and their families for this special recognition. I am confident that each of them will continue to shine bright in the future."

A live stream of yesterday's event can be viewed on Brentwood School's Facebook page HERE. Additional photos can be viewed HERE.

Rep. Allen Touts Federal Funding for Veterans' Cemetery in Augusta

Wed, 05 Aug 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Today, Congressman Rick W. Allen (GA-12) participated in a press conference with several community leaders to tout federal funding for a new veterans' cemetery in Augusta, Georgia. With Congressman Allen's support, the funding for this project was appropriated via H.R. 5371, the Continuing Appropriations, Agriculture, Legislative Branch, Military Construction and Veterans Affairs, and Extensions Act for Fiscal Year 2026, and made available through the Veterans Cemetery Grant Program.

The grant opportunity will provide up to $10 million in federal funding to support the construction of a new veterans cemetery in the Augusta area. The grant will allow Georgia to expand burial options for the over 66,000 veterans and their eligible family members in East Central Georgia, ensuring dignified, accessible, and lasting honors for those who served.

Congressman Allen touts federal funding for Augusta VA Cemetery to crowd of local veterans, residents, and leaders

Following the press conference, Congressman Allen issued the statement below:

"As the home to thousands of veterans, service members, and military families, I have fought for several years to bring a veterans' cemetery to Augusta, Georgia. Our veterans who reside in the CSRA and surrounding communities should have reasonable access to burial benefits close to home. The construction of this cemetery will deliver just that and has long been supported by local leaders, veterans, and elected officials. After years of work, I am pleased that we are officially moving forward with this project for those who answered the call to serve our nation in uniform. I would also like to thank Former Augusta Mayor Bob Young and Augusta Commissioner Don Clark for their tireless advocacy on behalf of veterans in this community."

BACKGROUND: The Georgia Department of Veterans Service's application for a new veterans' cemetery in Augusta, Georgia, has been reviewed and accepted by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs. This development is a monumental achievement in a process that Congressman Allen, local community leaders, and the state of Georgia have been working towards for several years. The funding for this project was included in H.R. 5371, which Congressman Allen supported on the House floor, and was signed into law by President Donald J. Trump on November 12, 2025.

Congressman Rick Allen Joins Walberg in Questioning Teachers Union Over Dues

Tue, 28 Jul 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Originally Published in The Georgia Virtue
By: Press

Education and Workforce Committee Chairman Tim Walberg and Health, Employment, Labor, and Pensions Subcommittee Chairman Rick W. Allen demanded answers from American Federation of Teachers President Randi Weingarten on Jul. 7 following reports that teachers’ union dues may have been used to finance the production, publication, and promotion of a book from which she personally benefited.

In a letter addressed to Weingarten, Walberg and Allen said, “The prospect that rank-and-file educators’ dues may have financed a project that generated private financial gain raises serious questions about transparency, accountability, and fiduciary responsibility within one of the nation’s largest labor organizations.”

The letter continued: “Recent reporting and analyses of AFT’s federal labor disclosures raise questions regarding whether union funds, personnel, contractors, and other resources were utilized to support the development and promotion of your book while you simultaneously retained a portion of the resulting royalties and proceeds. According to these reports, AFT expended substantial funds on consultants, legal services, publication-related expenses, fact-checking services, photography, and other activities connected to the book.”

Walberg and Allen also wrote, “The Committee also has a responsibility to ensure that organizations representing American workers operate transparently and that union members receive a full accounting of how their dues are utilized. The allegations surrounding the financing and proceeds relating to the book warrant careful examination, and the Committee expects your full cooperation.”

The House Education and Workforce Committee manages federal programs concerning education, labor, health care policy initiatives such as student loans or worker protections; it serves in the legislative sector with jurisdiction over education- or labor-related matters, according to its official website

This is a press release from Congressman Tim Walberg’s Office.

Augusta AI hearing weighs economic gains against worker risks

Mon, 27 Jul 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Originally Published in The Augusta Chronicle
By: Joe Hotchkiss

The rise of artificial intelligence is creating exciting economic opportunities in America, but the most successful users also should be the most responsible.

That's a bipartisan thread of agreement that ran through comments and testimony Friday at a field hearing conducted by Georgia and South Carolina members of Congress who sit on the House Committee on Education and Workforce.

U.S. Rep. Rick Allen (R), chairman of one of the group's subcommittees, joined U.S. Reps. Lucy McBath (D) of Georgia and Joe Wilson (R) of South Carolina to pose questions to local witnesses about the innovations and potential pitfalls that accompany their work sectors' use of AI.

"As we see this technology introduced into more workplaces, our job as policymakers is to foster an environment that delivers new and greater opportunities for American workers," Allen said to open the hearing at Augusta University's Georgia Cyber Innovation and Training Center. "The potential for AI to create jobs, strengthen existing industries and empower job creators is immense, but we must ensure that our policies encourage its responsible adoption so that every worker can benefit from these advancements."

Ajikumar Parayil is the founder and CEO of Manus, which operates a biotech facility in Augusta that engineers microorganisms to help produce medicines and food additives at a level that until recently had been cost-prohibitive. AI technology helps Manus rapidly produce tiny cell factories on a commercial scale.

"AI is giving manufacturers like Manus new tools to optimize production, improve quality, reduce space, bringing new products to market faster," he said.

Row-crop farmer Brad Edenfield has been director of the Burke County Farm Bureau for more than 20 years. He said he sees AI as an opportunity to infuse needed youth into agribusiness. AI can help farmers evaluate data to improve crop yields and better allocate resources through precision agriculture.

Farmers in the 21st century will have to be "looking for a new type of employee, one that can bridge that gap between the historical type of work we've always done and this intangible element that we may not have considered in the past," he said.

Dr. Jeffery Talbert is the inaugural chairman of Augusta University's Department of Artificial Intelligence and Health. In medical fields demanding high-functioning precision, AI helps doctors draft clinical notes and analyze data for quicker, more accurate diagnoses.

"The strongest evidence suggests that AI delivers the greatest value when it amplifies human expertise rather than replaces it," he said. "This allows health care professionals to spend their time caring for patients, detecting, diagnosing and treating disease earlier, and accelerating scientific discovery."

AI can't always make tasks easier. Tony Barlow is vice-president of the Communication Workers of America's Local 3204 in Atlanta. He represents union members who complain that their bosses use AI to speed workflow and cut human positions but end up sabotaging productivity instead.

"Workers across the country have seen employers racing to adopt new artificial intelligence tools. Without proper guardrails, AI has the potential to displace workers, degrade job quality and undermine service quality," he said. "It is crucial that workers have a voice in this technology that's used in the workplace."

McBath, whose District 6 in Congress covers north and west Atlanta, cautioned that AI progress mustn't harm the humans it's designed to help. One of her constituents, she said, is losing her home because a high-voltage power line is being strung across her property to help power a data center facilitating AI.

"Yes, we need the innovation, but we have a responsibility to make sure that it does not come at the expense of the people it is meant to serve," McBath said. "The future of AI is definitely promising, but it must also be guided by fairness, respect for people's homes, and a commitment to protecting families in Georgia and the communities they have built and lived in for generations."

Congressman Allen Hosts Education and Workforce Committee Field Hearing in Augusta

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Today, Congressman Rick W. Allen (GA-12) hosted an Education and Workforce Committee field hearing in Augusta, Georgia titled "Building an AI-Ready America: How AI Is Creating Opportunities Across America's Workforce."

The hearing was the eighth in a series examining artificial intelligence and was attended by U.S. Representatives Joe Wilson (R-SC) and Lucy McBath (D-GA). The members questioned a panel of four witnesses at the Georgia Cyber Innovation and Training Center-Hull McKnight Building on the impacts of AI in the workforce.

Following the hearing, Congressman Allen issued the statement below:

"There was no better place to hold today's field hearing on AI in the workplace than Augusta, Georgia. AI has the potential to be a powerful engine of economic growth. Across the country, including here in the 12th District, AI is enhancing workers’ knowledge, skills, and productivity while also automating routine tasks and improving efficiency across various industries. Today's witnesses were proof—each providing unique perspectives, valuable insight, and firsthand knowledge on utilizing AI in the agriculture, healthcare, and biotechnology sectors. I am grateful to my colleagues Joe Wilson and Lucy McBath for participating in this hearing, leadership from Augusta University and the Georgia Cyber Center for their hospitality, and our witnesses for their participation. If the United States intends to win the AI race, we must continue these critical discussions and ensure this technology remains a tool that serves Americans."

The full hearing can be viewed here.
Congressman Allen's opening statement can be read here.
Congressman Allen's questions to witnesses can be viewed here.

U.S. House aims to restore full service at Eisenhower Army Medical Center

Fri, 24 Jul 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Originally Published in WFXG
By: Daniel Matesevac

FORT GORDON, Ga. (WFXG) – A major change at the Eisenhower Army Medical Center at Fort Gordon may be reversed soon.

This week, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the National Defense Authorization Act for FY2027, the annual funding bill for the military.

Included in this year’s bill was a resolution to restore full staffing and services to the Eisenhower Army Medical Center, reversing a recent announcement that it would be reduced to an ambulatory care facility.

“When I first heard about this, [I] discussed it with [Armed Services Committee Chairman Mike Rogers]. He said, ‘Well, this doesn't make any sense, because a lot of the money we're appropriating is for quality-of-life issues for our military. And there's no bigger quality of life issue than health care,’” Rep. Rick Allen (R-GA) said.

Rep. Joe Wilson (R-SC) who collaborated heavily with Allen on the bill, says he believes the legislation has everything necessary to reach the finish line.

“I'm very grateful that I think ultimately Secretary of War Pete Hegseth is going to be helpful, but we just got to get the documentation, and I believe with the documentation we have that it will justify maintaining the level of services and the level of personnel who are currently at the Eisenhower Center,” Wilson said.

Wilson says the Eisenhower Center is important on both sides of the two-state region.

“Many of the persons who work at Fort Gordon are actually residents of South Carolina, and so bottom line is, I'm very happy to have heard from constituents that they're very pleased that there'll be further study before any further action to reduce the services that can be provided,” Wilson said.

Allen says this year’s Nation Defense Authorization Act as a whole will provide more for the military, even beyond the restoration of services at Fort Gordon.

“We're giving our military a raise. It's a well-deserved raise. Again, we're dealing with a lot of quality-of-life issues, housing, health care, those kinds of things. And our warfighters deserve it.”

The bill now heads to the Senate. Both Allen and Wilson believe the Senate will make some changes, but they say they will do everything to make sure that the Eisenhower Center remains fully operational.

Congressman Allen Secures Legislative Solution to Halt EAMC Changes

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 8800, the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2027 (NDAA). The NDAA authorizes annual funding levels for the U.S. Armed Forces and sets expenditures for the Department of War (DoW).

Included in H.R. 8800, and secured by Congressman Rick W. Allen (GA-12), is legislative text (Sections 704-705) that establishes the "prohibition on and reversal of actions to modify the scope of medical services provided at certain military medical treatment facilities," including Eisenhower Army Medical Center (EAMC).

After voting in support of the bill on the House floor, Congressman Allen issued the following statement:

"I have consistently said that the NDAA is one of the most vital pieces of legislation that comes before Congress each year. Especially so this year. We are currently confronting an unprecedented global threat environment—with multiple adversaries working together to undermine and weaken our national security. Now is not the time to underinvest in our warfighters and military capabilities. The FY2027 NDAA locks in a pay raise for our servicemembers and will ensure our military has the necessary equipment, technology, and facilities to remain the most lethal in the world. I was also proud to champion a provision in the bill to halt all proposed service changes at the EAMC.

"The EAMC has consistently been ranked one of our nation's most prestigious military health institutions. Last year, when I learned about the potential reduction of services at the hospital, I immediately began demanding answers and working with my colleagues in Congress and the Trump Administration to ensure these baseless plans were abruptly discontinued. Today, we are one step closer to achieving that goal—not just for the military families, active duty military, and veterans that EAMC serves—but for the entire CSRA. I thank House Armed Services Committee Chairman Mike Rogers and Congressman Joe Wilson for their support in getting this provision included in the House-passed bill."

Specifically, the Fiscal Year 2027 NDAA:

Revitalizes the Defense Industrial Base

Expands U.S. production capacity, unleashes private sector investment, opens the door to new and innovative entrants, reduces needless regulations, and creates thousands of skilled jobs for Americans.

Improves Servicemembers’ Quality of Life

Supports the President’s request to raise all servicemembers’ pay by 5 to 7% and improves housing, education, and access to childcare for military families.

Restores Lethal Capabilities

Rebuilds depleted stockpiles by providing the authorities and resources required to expedite the production and acquisition of munitions and key warfighting capabilities.

Strengthens American Deterrence

Prioritizes investment in the forces and capabilities needed to maintain a strong U.S. posture. It strengthens nuclear deterrence, expands missile defense, and targets resources and authorities to counter adversaries like China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea.

Eliminates Waste, Fraud and Abuse

Builds on progress made in FY26 to streamline DoW operations and cut nearly $30 billion in wasteful programs. It stands up a new task force and provides new authorities to eliminate fraudulent payments and achieve a full and clean audit within 24 months.

To read the full bill text, click here.
To read Sections 704-705 pertaining to EAMC, click here

Rep. Rick Allen - America at 250: A nation forged in liberty

Sat, 04 Jul 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Originally appeared in the Statesboro Herald
By: Congressman Rick W. Allen

When we think about the 4th of July, we often think about barbeques, parties, fireworks and large celebrations with family and friends. For many, it's easy to breeze through the day without pausing to recognize its importance and meaning.

Also known as Independence Day, the significance is echoed in its very name. It is far more than a holiday; far more than an opportunity to fire up the grill. It is a symbolic reminder of how far we've come as a nation. But this year, we also commemorate a generational milestone, our nation's 250th Birthday — providing all Americans a unique opportunity to reflect on our remarkable journey that began in 1776.

Two and a half centuries ago, a group of courageous patriots gathered in Philadelphia and declared the birth of a new nation. By issuing the Declaration of Independence, adopted by the Continental Congress on July 4, 1776, the 13 American colonies severed their political connections to Great Britain — establishing an independent nation founded on the revolutionary principles of liberty, the rule of law, limited government and the belief that all people are created equal.

From the leadership of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, John Adams and Benjamin Franklin to the sacrifices of Abraham Lincoln during our nation's greatest internal struggle, America has repeatedly demonstrated an ability to overcome immeasurable challenges and emerge stronger. Over the centuries, we have expanded freedom, strengthened democracy and continually worked to form a more perfect Union.

But our nation's progress has not only been made possible by the great statesmen who drafted documents like the Declaration of Independence, the United States Constitution and the Bill of Rights, but by generations of selfless Americans who answered the call to serve. Patriots in uniform have defended our freedoms from the battlefields of the Revolutionary War to the beaches of Normandy, the mountains of Afghanistan and countless places in between. The service and sacrifice of our Armed Forces have preserved the liberties that generations of Americans continue to enjoy today.

Whether one views America's history through the lens of military triumphs, economic achievement, scientific innovation, or civic progress, the lesson remains the same: our nation has continually excelled because Americans have been willing to serve a cause greater than themselves.

The 250th anniversary of the United States is not just a birthday celebration. It is a reminder of our responsibility as citizens. The freedoms secured by our Founders, defended by generations of servicemembers, and strengthened by hardworking Americans are not guaranteed. Each generation must protect and preserve them for the next.

As a father of four and grandfather to 14, this has long been my goal as I continue to serve you in Congress — the greatest honor of my life. Each day presents unique opportunities and unexpected headwinds. Disagreements are common. Patience is tested. Spirited debate is routine. However, the often-partisan nature of Washington, D.C. led me to Chair the Congressional Prayer Caucus. This bipartisan Member Organization consists of Democrats and Republicans who believe in the power of prayer and our fundamental First Amendment right — established by our Founding Fathers who prayed fervently for our nation.

We collect, exchange, and disseminate information about prayer as an enduring feature of American life.

Scripture tells us, 'Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord.' Throughout our storied history, the recognition of the Lord's divine wisdom and guidance is evident. Dating back to the 1860's, at the start of every new Congress, each member takes the official Oath of Office, concluding with, 'So help me God.'

During the 1949-1950 House Chamber remodeling, the full face of Moses was added above the entry into the House Chamber as the only front-facing marble relief portrait. The phrase 'one Nation under God' was added to the Pledge of Allegiance by Congress and President Eisenhower in 1954 during the Cold War. The phrase 'In God We Trust' — the official motto of the United States and printed on U.S. currency — is prominently displayed above the Speaker's rostrum and dais in the House chamber, where it was carved into the wall in December 1962.

History has shown us that prayer and faith have undoubtedly played a vital role in uniting us as people and strengthening the fabric of our society. Together, we have a moral obligation to uphold and strengthen it for future generations — as leaders throughout our 250-year history have done.

As Americans, we should celebrate how far we have come while renewing our commitment to the ideals that have guided America for 250 years: freedom, faith, truth, opportunity, courage, and service. The story of America — our story — has never been easy, it has always been extraordinary and it is still being written.

Congressman Rick W. Allen represents Bulloch County and Georgia's 12th District in the United States House of Representatives.

Rep. Allen's Bill to Increase Access to Care for 12th District Energy Workers Advanced by Committee

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Today, the House Committee on Education and Workforce advanced H.R. 4122, the Health Care for Energy Workers Act, to increase access to care for current and former energy workers. H.R. 4122 would benefit over 10,000 Georgia energy workers, including many employed at Plant Vogtle and the Savannah River Site.

Specifically, this bipartisan, bicameral legislation, introduced by Representatives Rick W. Allen (GA-12) and Lucy McBath (GA-06), would update the Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Program Act (EEOICPA) to allow nurse practitioners (NPs) and physician assistants (PAs) to order care for current and former Department of Energy (DOE) workers who receive health care under this Department of Labor (DOL) program.

The EEOICPA provides compensation and medical benefits to employees who work or have worked in the nuclear weapons industry. Under current EEOICPA regulations, NPs and PAs are unable to order home health care services for patients, creating unnecessary barriers to care, especially for patients in rural communities.

During today's markup, Congressman Allen delivered the following remarks, as prepared for delivery, prior to the bill's passage:

"Thank you, Mr. Chairman. I introduced H.R. 4122 along with my colleague from Georgia, Ms. McBath. This bill amends the Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Program Act to allow nurse practitioners (NPs) and physician assistants (PAs) to order care for patients eligible under the Energy Workers Program within their scope of practice under state law.

"Under the Energy Employees Occupational Illness Compensation Program Act, Department of Energy (DOE) contractors and subcontractors, as well as uranium miners, millers, and ore transporters, as well as the survivors of these workers, can receive compensation for certain occupational illnesses that are linked to their work environments through the Energy Workers Program.

"Under current law, only physicians may order care for eligible program patients. Unfortunately, in many parts across the country where these DOE sites are located—particularly in rural areas—workers can experience long delays in receiving essential health care services. This physicians-only policy also conflicts with Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) and the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (VA) guidelines, which allow NPs and PAs to order care within their scope of practice.

"H.R. 4122 helps address these delays and aligns the program with CMS and VA policies. This bill also requires NPs and PAs to act within their scope of practice under state law. These providers play a significant role in America’s health care system, and it is time that they play a greater role in the Energy Workers Program.

"H.R. 4122 mirrors the policy in H.R. 3170, the Improving Workers’ Compensation for Injured Federal Workers Act, which Chairman Walberg and Representative Courtney introduced. H.R. 3170 would allow NPs and PAs to order care for workers under the Federal Employees’ Compensation Act program within the scope of their practice under state law. I was happy to see the Committee approve that bill unanimously exactly one year ago today.

"The amendment in the nature of a substitute to H.R. 4122 makes a technical change to the bill, and I urge my colleagues to adopt the ANS and approve the underlying bill."