Fernandez, Teresa RSS Articles

Reps. Leger Fernández, Stansbury, Vasquez Investigate Federal Drug Enforcement Actions that Allowed Fentanyl on to New Mexico’s Streets

Fri, 26 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Representatives Teresa Leger Fernández (NM-03), Melanie Stansbury (D-NM), and Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) sent a letter to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administrator Terrance Cole demanding answers about reports that federal agents and prosecutors knowingly allowed hundreds of thousands of fentanyl pills to flood the streets of Albuquerque and other New Mexico communities. The practice, known as “walking,” is an investigative tactic where law enforcement agencies, like the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), deliberately allow illicit drugs to pass through supply chains and reach the streets. Rep. Leger Fernández and the New Mexico delegation pressed Administrator Cole for an immediate briefing on DEA policies and its actions in New Mexico with respect to the fentanyl crisis.

“New Mexico families have lost too many loved ones because of fentanyl,” said Rep. Teresa Leger Fernández. “Every pill that makes it into our communities puts lives at risk. The law enforcement technology and drug interdiction resources our delegation has supported for years are meant to stop fentanyl from reaching our families—not let it through. New Mexicans deserve answers.”

“New Mexicans are paying the price for a fentanyl epidemic that is tearing families apart and deserve answers. We are demanding answers as to whether federal agents knowingly allowed fentanyl to reach and harm our communities,” said Rep. Melanie Stansbury. “The DEA's own message is clear: one pill can kill. At a time when overdose deaths continue to devastate our state and communities, the DEA should be focused on stopping these drugs before they reach our streets—period.”

“Introducing high quantities of fentanyl into communities where drug abuse is prevalent is a highly dangerous and volatile approach,” said Rep. Vasquez. “I’m demanding answers from the DEA to understand exactly how this operation went down, who approved it, and what results, if any, it yielded. Fentanyl is a highly lethal drug that should be treated as such, as our hardworking members of local law enforcement work every day to eradicate this toxic substance from our streets, homes, and neighborhoods.”

According to the Drug Enforcement Administration, even a small amount of fentanyl can provide a potentially lethal dose. Fentanyl is incredibly potent—about 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine—a deadly quantity is roughly equivalent in size to a few grains of salt.

New Mexico has now led the nation for two consecutive years in drug overdose deaths, and data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) show our state’s overdose deaths rose nearly 23 percent over the past year while the national rate fell. Nonfatal suspected fentanyl overdoses treated in New Mexico emergency departments have reached their highest level since January 2023. These allegations also follow reports that DEA agents are being reassigned from drug trafficking cases to support the Administration’s mass deportation agenda.

This letter follows reporting from the Albuquerque Journal that the Drug Enforcement Administration may have allowed fentanyl to leak into Albuquerque and New Mexico streets.

You can find the full letter here.

Congresswoman Stansbury hosted a press call on this topic with New Mexico Speaker of the House, Javier Martinez. You can watch a recording of the press call here.

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Rep. Leger Fernández Introduces Bipartisan Solution to Protect America’s Herds From New World Screwworm

Thu, 18 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, D.C. – On June 18, 2026 — following confirmed cases of the New World screwworm (NWS) in Texas and New Mexico — U.S. Representatives Leger Fernández and Gabe Vasquez (NM-02) introduced the Protecting America’s Herds Act, an innovative, bipartisan solution to combat the spread of the parasite, herd loss, and a jump in beef prices.

The bill — which has 13 cosponsors from both sides of the aisle, including Rep. Leger Fernández — helps ranchers fight NWS by funding local experts who can train inspectors, inspect livestock, educate producers, and provide the hands-on support needed to catch outbreaks early and stop them from spreading.

The bill has been endorsed by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, New Mexico State University, the New Mexico Cattle Growers Association, the Public Lands Council, and Rocky Mountain Farmers Union.

“The first confirmed case of New World screwworm in New Mexico is a reminder that we cannot take our agricultural security for granted. Ranchers, producers, veterinarians, and agricultural experts have been warning about this threat for months and calling for stronger preparation before it reached our communities,” said Leger Fernández. “Unfortunately, the federal response did not match the urgency of the moment. Now that screwworm has arrived, we have a responsibility to step up and give our producers the tools they need to protect their herds. The Protecting America’s Herds Act will help provide the training, technical assistance, and local support needed to identify outbreaks early, respond quickly, and limit the damage to livestock, rural economies, and the families who depend on them.”

“For New Mexicans, the New World screwworm is not a distant problem. It's here, right in our backyard. That's why I'm raising the alarm in Congress and leading a bipartisan effort to make sure lawmakers understand this isn't just a New Mexico or Southwest issue — it's a national threat to our food supply, our ranchers, and American families — and we need to respond now,” said Vasquez. “Our ranchers have already been hit by years of drought, rising input costs, and record-low cattle herds. The last thing we need is a flesh-eating parasite threatening their herds and driving up beef prices for American families. That's why I'm leading this bill and calling on USDA to ramp up staffing, speed the completion of the sterile fly production facility, and give producers the resources they need to detect and stop this outbreak before it gets worse.”

The NWS was eradicated from the U.S. in 1966, meaning many producers today have never encountered the pest. This bill provides the essential training and support they need to prevent the outbreak from spiraling into a crisis through early detection and rapid response efforts.

Specifically, the bill would equip the Cooperative Extension System to:

Train personnel and producers on New World screwworm identification, treatment, management, prevention, and reporting through workshops, direct technical assistance, field demonstrations, and outreach campaigns
Allow Extension agents to act as livestock inspectors and deputize them to train and hire additional livestock inspectors
Enhance coordination with USDA APHIS, veterinarians, state animal health officials, and Tribal agricultural programs
Prioritize funding for states and Tribal communities at elevated risk of NWS introduction or spread

Leger Fernández joined Vasquez to unveil his bill at a briefing and press conference they convened in Albuquerque today with agriculture and livestock experts from across New Mexico, as well as the U.S. Department of Agriculture. In addition to introducing this new bipartisan solution, the representatives called on the USDA to expedite the completion of the sterile fly production facility in Texas — a vital project that he requested a status update on from Secretary Rollins back in mid-April ahead of the peak summer outbreak season.

During the briefing, livestock officials also noted they do not expect the NWS outbreak to materially impact beef prices and flagged for consumers that American beef products remain safe for consumption.

State and federal experts who attended today’s briefing and shared updates, insights, and recommendations included:

New Mexico Department of Agriculture
- Les Owen, Deputy Secretary
New Mexico Livestock Board
- Belinda Garland, Executive Director
- Samantha Holeck, State Veterinarian
Dairy Producers of New Mexico
- Beverly Idsinga, Executive Director
- New Mexico State University - Extension Office
- Tom Dean, Department Head for Cooperative Extension Service
New Mexico Department of Game and Fish
- Stewart Liley, Chief of Wildlife Management
New Mexico Cattle Growers’ Association
- Dr. Tom Paterson, President
New Mexico Farm and Livestock Bureau
- Larry Reagan, President
U.S. Department of Agriculture - Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service
- Dr. Sara Ahola, New World Screwworm National Incident Coordinator

Cosponsors of the Protecting America's Herds Act include Representatives Sharice Davids (KS-03), Teresa Leger Fernández (NM-03), Henry Cuellar (TX-28), Shomari Figures (AL-02), Sylvia Garcia (TX-29), Josh Harder (CA-09), Jimmy Panetta (CA-19), Chellie Pingree (ME-01), Andrea Salinas (OR-06), Melanie Stansbury (NM-01), Bennie G. Thompson (MS-02), Marc Veasey (TX-33), and Michael McCaul (TX-10).

“Protecting our livestock means protecting rural jobs and our economy,” said Rep. Veasey (TX-33). “The Protecting America’s Herds Act gives producers the resources they need to stay ahead of threats before they become costly crises and invests in the safeguards needed to keep destructive pests from reaching our livestock.”

“As the New World Screwworm has now been found in the United States, it’s critical that we take an all-hands on deck approach to identify and address new cases. Even in small states like Maine, a screwworm outbreak can have an outsized impact, especially at a time when families are already dealing with rising costs in every facet of their lives,” said Rep. Pingree (ME-01). “This commonsense legislation would give states the tools and people power they need to stop this outbreak in its tracks, while improving their ability to respond to future threats.”

"These parasitic swarms kill livestock, drive up milk and beef prices, and can even infect humans — we have to stop this outbreak before it spreads even more," said Rep. Harder (CA-09). "This bill jumpstarts detection and prevention efforts by giving dairies and ranchers the support they need to keep their livestock healthy. Passing this bill ASAP should be a no-brainer."

“A strong agricultural economy depends on giving producers the resources they need to prepare for challenges before they become crises. The New World screwworm is a threat we cannot ignore,” said Rep. Thompson (MS-02). “By strengthening Cooperative Extension Services, this legislation will help producers detect infestations early, protect their livestock, and improve our ability to respond before outbreaks become more widespread. Taking these steps now will help protect our agricultural economy, support rural communities, and strengthen our nation's food supply.”

Here’s what endorsing organizations have to say about the bill:

“I strongly support this important legislation to enhance our state’s preparedness and response to the New World screwworm. By investing in the training of Extension professionals, strengthening producer outreach, and equipping our local offices to serve as trusted resources, this bill ensures that New Mexicans have timely access to science-based information and assistance,” said Jon Boren, the Associate Dean and Director at New Mexico State University’s College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences. “This proactive approach will help protect animal health, safeguard our agricultural economy, and strengthen the resilience of communities across New Mexico. We appreciate this commitment to prevention, education, and rapid response.”

“Extension agents and their staff are among the most trusted agricultural professionals in many communities. They know our producers, understand local conditions, and can play a critical role in educating the public and helping detect New World screwworm in our livestock,” said Tom Paterson, President of the New Mexico Cattle Growers’ Association. “Congressman Vasquez is proposing a practical, common-sense approach that strengthens our frontline defenses against a devastating livestock pest. New Mexico Cattle Growers strongly supports this legislation and appreciates his leadership on this issue.”

“Rocky Mountain Farmers Union believes that expanding access to technical assistance for producers is a critical investment in the long-term health and resilience of the U.S. livestock industry,” said Chad Franke, President of Rocky Mountain Farmers Union. “Enhanced support helps safeguard our nation's cattle herd, strengthen rural economies, and provide producers with tools to help address emerging challenges. This is especially urgent as threats such as New World Screwworm continue to grow and the U.S. cattle herd is at a 75-year low.”

“Eradicating New World screwworm half a century ago required a full-court press, leveraging partnerships at the federal, state, and local levels. Eradicating the current outbreak in New Mexico and Texas will require the same level of investment. Mobilizing Cooperative Extension agents in the fight against this pest is a practical use of existing expertise and personnel on the ground,” said the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association. “We appreciate Congressman Vasquez’s focus on this urgent issue facing New Mexico ranchers.”

Leger Fernández Celebrates $562,500 Community Funding and Community Match Support for El Valle Community Center in Villanueva

Fri, 29 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

VILLANUEVA, N.M. — Congresswoman Teresa Leger Fernández (NM-03) joined community leaders, local families, and philanthropic partners in Villanueva, NM, to celebrate a $562,500 federal Community Project Funding investment for the El Valle Community Center and Library she secured. With music, food, and some big checks, the community celebrated the successful completion of matching funds that will help bring critical renovations and improvements to the historic center.

Leger Fernández secured the $562,500 investment through the FY24 Community Project Funding process. Since coming to Congress, she has delivered more than $124 million in Community Project Funding for projects across New Mexico.

“Being here, surrounded by music and laughter, among people who care about the community, gives me hope,” said Congresswoman Leger Fernández. “When we talk about rural New Mexico, we are really talking about home. Places like this are the beating hearts of Nuevo Mexico, where families gather to celebrate weddings and baptisms, share food, or play basketball, and where children discover new worlds through books. This investment is about more than fixing a building — it’s about protecting culture, preserving community, and building a brighter future for Villanueva. That’s why we had to bring this funding home. I also want to shout out the partners who made this funding possible. The Masons inspired our revolutionary leaders 250 years ago, and their ethics of altruism shine through today. The Las Vegas Community Foundation has shown up in times of disaster and celebration, and Pattern Energy is not just powering our energy future — they’re investing in the very communities where their turbines capture the wind. ”

The El Valle Community Center provides essential services for rural families, including literacy tutoring and library programming for local students, free computer and internet access, a community food pantry, yoga, art classes, a farmers market, and meeting spaces for residents across the region. If a community member has an idea, El Valle will turn it into a reality.

The total $750,000 project will fund major repairs and upgrades to the community center, including a roof replacement or refurbishment, accessibility improvements, insulation, window repairs, and infrastructure upgrades that will allow the center to continue serving families across the San Miguel del Vado Land Grant communities.

“Congresswoman Teresa Leger Fernández spent much of her childhood in the valley with her extended family. She understands the needs of this and other remote communities that lack access to basic needs services,” said Patricia M. Gallegos, Founder and Honorary Board Member of the El Valle Community Center. “She is passionate about community development, cultural preservation, and rural education. With this award, EVCC is able to help the center become an example of community self-sufficiency and a hub for the underprivileged remote community.”

To meet the required funding match, the center received support from several philanthropic organizations, including $30,000 from the Masonic Charity Foundation of New Mexico, $30,000 from the Las Vegas Community Foundation/Anchorum, and $141,680 from Pattern Energy.

“Pattern Energy is honored to support the El Valle Community Center and the meaningful work its team is doing in Villanueva,” said Jeremy Turner, Senior Director of New Mexico Development and Strategy for Pattern Energy. “We are grateful to build on that track record alongside Congresswoman Leger Fernández, whose leadership helped the Center unlock these additional funds, and we look forward to seeing it move into its next chapter.”

The El Valle Community Center has served the region since 1998 and operates out of the former Villanueva Elementary School building. The center serves residents from Villanueva, Ribera, San Miguel, El Pueblo, Sena, El Cerrito, Gonzalez Ranch, Leyba, and surrounding communities.

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Leger Fernández Bipartisan Bill to Strengthen Public Safety in Indian Country Advances in Natural Resources Committee

Thu, 21 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WATCH THE HEARING

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, the House Natural Resources Subcommittee on Indian and Insular Affairs held a hearing on the bipartisan Bridging Agency Data Gaps & Ensuring Safety (BADGES) for Native Communities Act, legislation led by Congresswoman Teresa Leger Fernández (D-NM) alongside Representatives Dan Newhouse (R-WA) and Sharice Davids (D-KS) to strengthen public safety in Indian Country, improve coordination in missing persons investigations, and support the recruitment and retention of Bureau of Indian Affairs law enforcement officers.

During the hearing, Leger Fernández spoke about the urgent need for action to address the crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and strengthen trust between Native communities and law enforcement.

“Native women are murdered at ten times the national average. Eighty-four percent of American Indian and Alaska Native women experience violence in their lifetime,” said Leger Fernández during the hearing.“That should break our hearts and force us to take policy action. The bipartisan BADGES Act helps fill the cracks that have allowed too many missing people to fall through the system.”

The BADGES for Native Communities Act would:

Increase Tribal access to the National Missing and Unidentified Persons System (NamUs) by creating Tribal facilitators to improve coordination, outreach, training, and reporting across jurisdictions.
Require a comprehensive report on Tribal law enforcement needs.
Allow the Bureau of Indian Affairs to conduct its own background checks for law enforcement applicants to speed up hiring and improve officer recruitment.
Establish a grant program to help states, Tribes, and Tribal organizations coordinate investigations into missing and murdered persons and sexual assault cases.
Ensure BIA officers and Tribal police have access to culturally appropriate mental health and wellness programs.

Leger Fernández emphasized that many Tribal communities face severe law enforcement shortages and long response times because of delays in the federal hiring process.

“Tribal leaders tell us they need more officers to respond to emergencies and protect their communities,” Leger Fernández said. “Right now, background checks can take up to nine months. People who want to serve their communities simply cannot wait that long. This bill helps us hire officers faster while maintaining high standards and improving coordination to solve missing persons cases.”

The Senate passed the BADGES Act unanimously in December. Leger Fernández urged the House to move quickly to pass the legislation into law.

Leger Fernández Landmark Bill to Protect Historic Land Grant Communities and Traditional Uses on Federal Lands Advances in House

Thu, 21 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WATCH THE HEARING

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Teresa Leger Fernández secured a major legislative hearing in the House Natural Resources Subcommittee on Federal Lands for her bill to strengthen the relationships between New Mexico land grant-mercedes and the federal government and protect their ability to practice centuries-old traditional uses on federal land. Representative Leger Fernández and U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) introduced the New Mexico Land Grant-Mercedes Historical or Traditional Use Cooperation and Coordination Act (H.R. 2785) to provide greater cooperation between the federal government and land grant communities.

There are 27 community land grant-mercedes that are recognized as political subdivisions under New Mexico law. Federal agencies have consistently sought to work more closely with these land grant-mercedes, as the majority of them maintain historical or traditional uses on public lands managed by the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) and the Bureau of Land Management (BLM). The BLM and the USFS require the public, including land grant-mercedes, to seek authorization for certain public land uses, while other uses do not require authorization. The approval and permitting process is complex, and in the past, confusion and lack of coordination have resulted in adverse impacts on the historical or traditional uses of political subdivision land grant-mercedes.

“Land grants are a unique part of our herencia and our cultura in New Mexico — but they are also part of the American story,” said Leger Fernández. “Even after the federal government broke its promise under the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, land grant heirs continued to care for these lands for generations because their way of life depended on it. This bill helps preserve that culture, that history, and that relationship to the land for the generations that come next.”

Similar versions of the legislation previously received hearings in both the House and Senate. The legislation is backed by the New Mexico Land Grant Council and land grant communities across the state.

“House Bill 2785 is a product of over 15 years of work between our communities and the entire New Mexico delegation. It provides for the recognition of longstanding traditional use practices by our communities and will ensure that land grant Mercedes have a seat at the table when the federal land management decisions could affect our access or use are being made,” said Land Grant Council Chairman Juan Sanchez during his testimony on behalf of the bill today.“Over the years, traditional use needs have been ignored, largely because we are not always at the table when land management decisions are being made. The required cooperation and coordination between land-grant and Merced communities and federal agencies prescribed in House Bill 2785 is critical to ensuring our needs are not ignored. The passage of this legislation would help ensure that federal land management policies and practices, regardless of the change of administration, will be honored and protect our traditional uses now and for future generations.”

Leger Fernández dedicated part of her testimony to the late Steve Polaco, a leader in New Mexico’s land grant community who passed away earlier this month.

“Steve’s legacy will live on through every acre of land and every acequia his sweat touched,” Leger Fernández said. “It will also live on through this bill, which his work supported. I hope to pass it in his honor.”

The New Mexico Land Grant-Mercedes Historical or Traditional Use Cooperation and Coordination Act:

Directs the United States Department of the Interior (DOI) and Department of Agriculture (USDA), through a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the New Mexico Land Grant Council, to clarify existing agency processes that qualified land grant-mercedes may use to seek authorization for historical or traditional uses on Federal public lands, including permit requirements and associated fees;
Clarifies that the MOU does not directly authorize any uses or activities on Federal public lands;
Directs the DOI and USDA to consult with Tribes when the MOU is entered into, extended, renewed or revised;
Ensures that the MOU contains a description of the notice and comment procedures on agency land management planning decisions, and that qualified land grant-mercedes, the New Mexico Land Grant Council, and Tribes are notified of opportunities to comment on and be involved in agency land management planning decisions; and
Requires the DOI and the USDA to evaluate impacts on historical or traditional uses in Federal land use planning.

A summary of the bill is available HERE. Full text of the legislation is available HERE.

DWC Chair Celebrates House Rejection of the Republican Version of the Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum Act

Thu, 21 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, the House of Representatives rejected the Republican, partisan version of H.R. 1329, the Smithsonian American Women’s History Museum Act in a bipartisan vote of 216-204. The Democratic Women’s Caucus (DWC) and House Democrats called for the bill to be returned to the original bipartisan version. Earlier this week, the DWC announced formal opposition to the bill.

DWC Chair Teresa Leger Fernández (NM-03) released a statement following the failed vote on the bill:

“Today, the House proved that the Women’s History Museum does not belong to Trump. It belongs to the women whose blood, sweat, and tears paint the picture of America.

Women deserve to tell our own story. That is why the Democratic Women’s Caucus and House Democrats worked tirelessly to block the radical, divisive Republican amendments to the Women’s History Museum bill that gave Trump and his ballroom buddies control.

The House’s loud rejection of this partisan bill is a signal that we need to return to the original bipartisan version that honors the diverse contributions women made to this country. This fight is rooted in the shared belief that women’s history and women’s stories are integral to who we are as a nation.”

Congresswomen Teresa Leger Fernández and Kat Cammack Announce Bipartisan Partnership to Combat Workplace Sexual Misconduct in Congress

Wed, 13 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congresswomen Teresa Leger Fernández (NM-03) and Kat Cammack (FL-03) along with Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries (NY-08) and Speaker Mike Johnson (LA-04) today announced a bipartisan partnership between the Democratic Women’s Caucus and Republican Women’s Caucus to combat workplace sexual misconduct in Congress. The two Caucuses will work together to identify reforms and solutions to make Congress a safer work environment for women and all survivors.

As the Chairs of the Democratic and Republican Women’s Caucuses in the House, Rep. Leger Fernández and Rep. Cammack were designated by Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Speaker Mike Johnson respectively to lead this bipartisan effort. Next steps and any proposed reforms will be done in coordination with House Administration Committee Chairman Bryan Steil (WI-01) and Ranking Member Joe Morelle (NY-25), who will both participate in this effort in an ex-officio capacity.

“All women deserve a safe working environment—including the brilliant public servants who work in Congress. That’s why the Democratic Women’s Caucus and Republican Women’s Caucus are partnering to address the procedural and cultural problems that have led to pervasive sexual misconduct on Capitol Hill. Together, we will push for bipartisan changes to make the reporting process faster and more accessible and increase education and training resources, prioritizing staff and survivors at every step. This effort builds on the work of members of the DWC, who have pushed for better support and protections for survivors for years. We bring that expertise and dedication to this partnership," said Democratic Women’s Caucus Chair Teresa Leger Fernández (NM-03).

“It is sickening that Congressmen sexually harassed and assaulted women staff instead of treating them with the respect they deserved. We know these women are not alone—women across America have been sexually assaulted and harassed by men at work who think they will never face any consequences. We will continue to stand with survivors, break the silence, and fight for a future free of sexual misconduct—in Congress and everywhere across this country.”

"No woman — regardless of party, title, or position — should ever feel unsafe in her workplace. Period,” said Republican Women’s Caucus Chair Kat Cammack (FL-03). “As Chair of the Republican Women’s Caucus, I am proud to be leading a bipartisan effort alongside the Democratic Women’s Caucus to take a hard look at the systems, reporting mechanisms, and workplace culture on Capitol Hill surrounding sexual harassment and assault. This effort has the support of Speaker Johnson and Leader Jeffries because this issue transcends politics. It’s about dignity, accountability, and ensuring that every person who comes to work in the People’s House is treated with respect and protected from abuse. The reality is that coming forward is extraordinarily difficult. Fear of retaliation, damage to careers, public scrutiny, and institutional pressure often silence victims long before justice has a chance to speak. We cannot claim to support women while ignoring the very real barriers that prevent them from reporting misconduct in the first place. Yes, bad actors must be held accountable and removed when warranted. But if we are serious about fixing this problem, we also have to confront the environment that allowed the behavior to occur, persist, or be concealed. Accountability cannot begin and end with punishment after the fact. It must include prevention, transparency, education, and systems people can actually trust. Congress should set the standard — not lag behind it. This effort is about restoring confidence that Capitol Hill is a workplace where professionalism, respect, and safety are non-negotiable. Every staffer, intern, employee, and Member deserves that.”

“Led by Reps. Teresa Leger Fernandez and Kat Cammack, the principled effort to end sexual violence and harassment in Congress has the complete and unequivocal support of the House Democratic Caucus,” said Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries (NY-08). “All women and survivors working on Capitol Hill and in district offices throughout the country must always be treated with dignity and respect. We support an ironclad policy so we can bring about a safe, professional atmosphere for all Congressional staff members. I am thankful for the efforts of all the members of the Democratic Women’s Caucus and look forward to the urgent work that must be done by this bipartisan group to end sexual violence and harassment.”

“To state the obvious, all women should feel comfortable and safe working in the halls of Congress. As a father who has two daughters working on Capitol Hill — this is as personal to me as it is to anyone," said Speaker Mike Johnson (LA-04). "I am happy that Reps. Cammack and Leger Fernández, the respective chairs of the Republican and Democratic Women's Caucuses, will lead this bipartisan partnership to find ways we can continue to make Capitol Hill safer for women and all staff.”

Leger Fernández, Luján, Davids, Bacon Lead Bipartisan Bill to Prevent Wrongful Detention of Native Americans During ICE Enforcement

Tue, 12 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Leger Fernández, Luján, Davids, Bacon Lead Bipartisan Bill to Prevent Wrongful Detention of Native Americans During ICE Enforcement

Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representatives Teresa Leger Fernández (D-NM-03), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Indian and Insular Affairs, Sharice Davids (D-KS-03), and Don Bacon (R-NE-02) and U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), a member of the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs introduced the bipartisan Respect Tribal IDs Act to improve how Department of Homeland Security (DHS) personnel recognize and interact with Tribal identification documents during immigration enforcement. The legislation comes amid growing reports of Native Americans being questioned, delayed, or detained after federal officers failed to recognize valid Tribal IDs and documentation as proof of citizenship.

The Respect Tribal IDs Act would require DHS, in coordination with the Bureau of Indian Affairs and Tribal Nations, to develop standardized training for officers and employees involved in immigration enforcement. The training would include how to identify Tribal documents, when Tribal IDs qualify as proof of U.S. citizenship, proper protocols for interacting with enrolled Tribal members, and the federal government’s trust responsibility to Tribal Nations. The bill also requires DHS to create region-specific guidance and reference materials for officers, including examples of Tribal IDs used by federally recognized Tribes in areas where agents operate. Officers would be required to complete the training annually and whenever they are reassigned to a new region.

“We’ve seen Trump’s Department of Homeland Security violate the rights of the first Americans countless times. Indigenous people in New Mexico and across the country have been unfairly questioned, harassed, and detained. This bill will require that DHS officers be trained to recognize Tribal IDs and prevent wrongful detentions,” said Representative Leger Fernández. “All law enforcement officials must respect tribal governments and the documents they provide their citizens. ICE and CBP agents must follow the law and respect tribal sovereignty.”

“In New Mexico and across the country, our Tribal brothers and sisters deserve to be treated with dignity and respect,” said Senator Luján. “Under the Trump administration, we’ve seen disturbing incidents where Tribal members were stopped, questioned, and harassed by ICE officers simply because of their appearance or because officers failed to recognize their Tribal IDs. That is unacceptable and deeply wrong. To address these failures, my legislation would establish clear standards and ensure DHS officers are properly trained to recognize and accept Tribal IDs. No one should have to fear being harassed because of a failure in training or accountability.”

“Tribal sovereignty is a legal and constitutional recognition of Tribal Nations and their citizens, and the federal government has a responsibility to respect that,” said Representative Davids. “But lately, we’ve seen troubling reports of Native Americans being questioned or detained because federal officers lacked the training needed to recognize tribal documentation or understand Tribal Nation citizenship. This bipartisan bill is about preventing those failures, improving training and accountability, and making sure all people are treated with the dignity and respect they deserve.”

“The Respect Tribal IDs Act is a commonsense bill to ensure DHS personnel are properly trained to recognize Tribal IDs and work respectfully with Tribal communities,” said Representative Bacon. “Federal agencies have a responsibility to protect and support Tribal citizens, and this legislation helps ensure they do that.”

“The National Congress of American Indians supports this legislation to ensure that federal agents within the U.S. Department of Homeland Security are properly trained to recognize and respect Tribal identification documents,” said Larry Wright, Executive Director, National Congress of American Indians (NCAI). “Too often, the lack of consistent training has led to confusion, delays, and the improper treatment of Tribal citizens. By requiring comprehensive training on Tribal IDs, this bill affirms the validity of Tribal governments and strengthens the federal trust responsibility. NCAI urges its passage to promote respectful interactions, enhance security, and uphold the rights of Tribal citizens.”

The legislation follows multiple high-profile incidents and reports involving Native Americans whose Tribal documentation was reportedly rejected or questioned during federal enforcement encounters. Tribal leaders and advocates have raised concerns that inconsistent training and lack of familiarity with Tribal IDs have contributed to wrongful stops and confusion involving U.S. citizens, particularly in border states and regions with large Native populations. The legislation seeks to establish clearer standards and prevent future incidents by ensuring federal personnel are properly trained before conducting enforcement activities.

Congresswoman Leger Fernández has repeatedly confronted the Trump administration’s abuses of Native Americans. She secured language in the FY26 House Appropriations Homeland Security Subcommittee Bill Report for DHS to support Tribal governmental competency training to reduce immigration enforcement encounters with Native Americans. She also led a letter to President Trump in January 2025, demanding a stop to the unconscionable ICE Harassment and racial profiling of Native American Citizens. She further publicly sounded the alarm about ICE’s abuses against Native Americans through informing and questioning the House Appropriations Committee Chairman Tom Cole, about the issue. Additionally, she is leading a FY27 Homeland Security Appropriations request with 12 other Members for the Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers (FLETC), in collaboration with the Bureau of Indian Affairs, to provide tribal government competency training for federal immigration enforcement officers. Further, she is working with Tribal leadership and continuously bringing attention to the Trump administration’s ICE racial profiling, harassment, and detention of Native Americans.

Following major DHS scandals, Senator Luján introduced legislation to hold ICE and CBP accountable, increase transparency, and make communities safer. Senator Luján opposed the confirmation of Senator Markwayne Mullin to serve as DHS Secretary. Senator Luján also voted against Kristi Noem’s confirmation as DHS Secretary and successfully pushed for her ouster. Additionally in January 2025, Senator Luján joined Representative Leger Fernández in a letter to President Trump demanding immediate action to address reports of ICE agents harassing, detaining, and questioning Native American Tribal members about their citizenship.

Full bill text is available here.

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Leger Fernández, Newhouse Introduce Resolution Designating National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls

Mon, 04 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Rep. Teresa Leger Fernández (D-NM) and Rep. Dan Newhouse (R-WA) introduced a resolution to designate May 5, 2026, as a National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls.

"The U.S. can no longer look away from the pain and injustice endured by Indigenous families whose mothers, daughters, sisters, and relatives have gone missing or been murdered," said Rep. Leger Fernández. "Honoring the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls is one way to bring national attention to this issue. This crisis exists because we have not created or enforced the laws to protect Indigenous women and children from predators. As a nation, we have a moral responsibility to invest in services for Indian Country so there are no more stolen sisters and no more stolen joy."

“Indigenous women and girls continue to face heightened violence that is tearing families and communities apart," said Rep. Newhouse.

"In Washington State alone, there are dozens of open cases of Missing Indigenous Women and Girls, while many of these crimes go under reported or un-reported nationwide. Recognizing May 5, 2026, as a National Day of Awareness shines a light on this epidemic and serves as a reminder to Congress that we must support our threatened native communities and better equip them to solve these heinous crimes. I thank my colleagues on both sides of the aisle for joining me in raising awareness to this critical issue."

Leger Fernández and Newhouse were joined by Reps. Maria Salazar (R-FL), Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR), Mike Thompson (D-CA), Dusty Johnson (R-SD), Ed Case (D-HI), Julie Fedorchak (R-SD), Mike Simpson (R-ID), Jake Ellzey (R-TX), Jeff Hurd (R-CO), Stephanie Bice (R-OK), Andy Biggs (R-AZ) and Eli Crane (R-AZ).

The resolution is also supported by the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation, National Congress of American Indians (NCAI), Midwest Alliance of Sovereign Tribes, Yakama Nation, Seattle Indian Health Board, Urban Indian Health Institute, National Indigenous Women’s Resource Center, and Muscogee (Creek) Nation.

Hazen Shopbell, Chair of the Tulalip Tribes said, “The Tulalip Tribes stand in solidarity with Tribal Nations across the country in recognizing May 5 as the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. We thank Congressman Dan Newhouse for his continued leadership in bringing national attention to this crisis and for introducing this important resolution. The epidemic of violence against our Native women, girls, and relatives continues to impact every Tribal community and demands sustained, meaningful action. We call on Congress to uphold its trust responsibility by strengthening Tribal sovereignty, fully recognizing Tribal jurisdiction, and ensuring Tribes have the resources needed to protect our people. Today, and every day, we honor the lives taken too soon, stand with the families who continue to seek justice, and renew our commitment to building a future where our communities are safe—where there are no more stolen sisters.”

Dustin Klatush, Chairman, Confederated Tribes of the Chehalis Reservation said, "The resolution shines a necessary light on a crisis that our tribal communities have endured for decades. The Chehalis Tribe is hopeful that the federal government can prioritize the deployment of resources to tribal communities to resolve cases of missing and murdered women and girls. The Chehalis Tribe appreciates Congressman Newhouse's attention to and efforts to change federal policy to improve tribal law enforcement."

Jarred-Michael Erickson, Chairman, Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation said,"The Colville Tribes appreciates and supports the continued efforts of Rep. Dan Newhouse to keep attention focused on the problem of missing and murdered indigenous women and girls. The Colville Tribes supports the designation of a ‘National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls’ and continues to support a federal MMIW law enforcement presence specifically dedicated to serve the Pacific Northwest."

Shannon Holsey, President of the Stockbridge-Munsee Band of Mohican Indians said, “The continued disappearance and murder of Indigenous women and girls is a national failure that demands more than symbolism—it demands action. I strongly commend Congressman Newhouse for reintroducing this resolution to designate May 5, 2026, as the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. This crisis reflects a continued failure to fully uphold the federal trust responsibility to Tribal Nations. While laws such as Savanna’s Act and the Not Invisible Act were critical steps forward, awareness must now translate into accountability, coordination across jurisdictions, and sustained action to protect Indigenous women and girls.”

Gerald Lewis, Chairman, Yakama Nation Tribal Council said, "The Yakama Nation appreciates Congressman Newhouse’s steadfast commitment to acknowledging and addressing the ongoing crisis of violence against Indigenous people throughout Indian Country. The burden of having missing and murdered relatives at such distressingly high rates causes immense pain for the people of the Yakama Nation and other tribal nations with large land bases – as we lack the resources to adequately patrol our vast territories. There are many actions that could assist in combating this issue that continues to engrain generational trauma into our people – and progress is being made. To accomplish this, support must be provided to tribal nations' public safety, law enforcement, and justice systems through legislative action and collaboration from all governing bodies; regardless of whether they are at the local, state or federal level. Together we can work to bring our people home and ensure justice."

Bazil-Lu Windy Boy, Yakama Nation Tribal Council, Chair for the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Peoples Committee said, "Indian Country has dealt with unacceptably high levels of crime and harm against our people for far too long. Too many families grieve the loss of a loved one, with no justice or closure to comfort them, because of shortfalls that obstruct initiatives that could combat this crisis. I’ve seen this pain first hand from my time as a tribal police officer and as a member of the Not Invisible Act Commission which developed recommendations on actions the federal government can take to help combat violent crime against Native people and within Indian lands, and to address the MMIP epidemic. The Yakama Nation and tribes across the United States are in immediate need of resources for safety measures and justice services to protect our communities. We appreciate Congressman Newhouse's ongoing work to address the obstacles to Tribal sovereignty and public safety improvements we face today. We must continue working to make our communities safer for current and future generations and ensure that our loved ones and neighbors return home safely every night.”

Lucy R. Simpson, CEO, National Indigenous Women's Resource Center (NIWRC) said, "The National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (MMIWG) honors all American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian women and relatives who have been abducted, murdered, or have gone missing,” said Lucy R. Simpson, CEO, National Indigenous Women's Resource Center (NIWRC). “This day provides a space for families and communities to raise awareness, seek justice, heal, and advocate for lasting change and accountability. NIWRC strongly supports the designation of May 5, 2026 as the National Day of Awareness for MMIWG."

Full text of the resolution can be found here.

Leger Fernandez Effort to Force Resignation of Reps. Gonzales and Swalwell Over Sexual Misconduct Succeeds

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

WASHINGTON, D.C. — After calls for accountability led by Congresswoman Teresa Leger Fernández (NM-03), Reps. Tony Gonzales and Eric Swalwell announced their resignations from Congress today amid serious allegations of sexual misconduct.

Leger Fernández was among the first Members to publicly call for resignation and, if they refused, for expulsion. She announced her resolution to force a vote on Gonzales’ expulsion, which would have been filed tomorrow.

Leger Fernández was working alongside Rep. Anna Paulina Luna, a Republican from Florida, who was filing a resolution to expel Swalwell. This was a bipartisan effort to hold both men accountable.

To avoid the expulsion votes, Gonzales and Swalwell each announced their resignation—or in the case of Gonzales, “retirement."

Gonzales has failed to state when his “retirement” would begin. This evening, Rep. Leger Fernandez reasserted she's not backing down. She intends to file her resolution to expel Gonzales tomorrow unless his resignation from Congress is made effective immediately.

“Men in power too often count on silence. They count on fear. They fail to recognize the power of women when they break that silence and stand with each other to demand consequences.

From the moment these deeply disturbing allegations came to light, I made clear that anyone who abuses the power of their office to prey on staff is not fit to serve in Congress. Staff come to this institution to serve the American people, not to be exploited, manipulated, or abused by the very people who hold power over their livelihoods.

There is no such thing as consent when the imbalance of power is this profound. A Member of Congress controls a staffer’s employment, salary, benefits, future opportunities, and their day-to-day working conditions. That power can never be separated from the harm inflicted in these sexual abuse cases.

I believe these survivors and their voices cannot be ignored. Today’s resignations are the direct result of survivors’ courage and the refusal to allow powerful men to escape accountability. They are a direct result of the Resolutions Rep. Luna and I were filing tomorrow. Congress must be a place of public service, dignity, and respect, not abuse.

But the work does not end here.

Our responsibility is larger than any one resignation. We must protect staff, strengthen accountability, and make clear that no one in a position of power is above consequences.

This is not the end," said Leger Fernandez.

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