Moore, Gwen RSS Articles

Moore, Yakym Introduce Legislation to Support Surviving Spouses of Veterans

Thu, 23 Jul 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Moore, Yakym Introduce Legislation to Support Surviving Spouses of Veterans

Today, Representative Gwen Moore (D-WI-04) and Representative Rudy Yakym (R-IN-02) introduced the Veterans Surviving Spouse Parity Act to help surviving spouses of veterans access housing programs that benefit first-time homebuyers. Under current law, surviving spouses of veterans can access VA home loans but not Mortgage Credit Certificate and Mortgage Revenue Bond programs. The Members’ legislation secures parity for these surviving spouses.

This legislation was inspired by Rep. Moore’s constituent, who is a surviving spouse who qualified for a VA home loan, but was not eligible for the Mortgage Credit Certificate.

“Surviving spouses of veterans made their own sacrifices for our country, and we can better utilize existing resources to support them. Our bipartisan bill helps them access key resources that can make homeownership more affordable. I thank my constituent for inspiring this important bill,” said Rep. Moore.

"This country owes everything to the men and women who fight for our freedom, and to the surviving spouses who carry on without them. We owe it to these families to give them stability, and that starts with owning a home.” Rep. Yakym said. “This bipartisan bill closes that gap, so surviving spouses can access the same homeownership resources their veteran spouses could. I thank Rep. Moore for her leadership on this bill and for standing up for these families."

“For nearly 20 years, state housing finance agencies’ have been better able to help veterans purchase homes through their Mortgage Revenue Bond (MRB) and Mortgage Credit Certificate (MCC) programs because of a one-time exemption to those programs’ first-time home buyer requirement,” said Stockton Williams, Executive Director of the National Council of State Housing Agencies. “We commend Representatives Gwen Moore (D-WI) and Rudy Yakym (R-IN) for introducing legislation to extend this benefit to the spouses of those members of the armed forces who made the ultimate sacrifice.”

"The National Association of REALTORS® proudly supports the bipartisan Veterans Surviving Spouse Parity Act because the families of those who made the ultimate sacrifice deserve the same opportunities as the veterans they stood beside. By extending eligibility for Mortgage Revenue Bond and Mortgage Credit Certificate programs to qualifying surviving spouses, this legislation removes an unnecessary barrier to affordable homeownership and helps ensure these families have access to the housing resources they have earned. We applaud Representatives Moore and Yakym for advancing this commonsense, bipartisan solution that honors our nation's military families while expanding pathways to homeownership," said Shannon McGahn, Executive Vice President and Chief Advocacy Officer, National Association of REALTORS®.

Congress provides each state with an amount of private activity bonds (PABs), which include MRB and MCC programs issued by housing finance agencies to support homeownership for families earning below 115% of area median income. MRBs are tax-exempt bonds that help fund below-market interest-rate mortgages for qualifying homebuyers. MCCs are issued directly to qualifying homebuyers, who are then entitled to a non-refundable federal tax credit annually. MCCs and MRBs lower costs for low- and moderate-income homeowners, which can make sustainable homeownership possible. To qualify, buyers must typically be first-time homeowners. However, there are some exceptions to this rule, including for veterans. This bill creates an exception for surviving spouses, too.

Endorsing Organizations: National Council of State Housing Agencies, Veterans Associate of Real Estate Professionals, National Association of REALTORS®, and Paralyzed Veterans of America.

Congresswoman Gwen Moore Opposes Partisan FY 2027 Continuing Resolution

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Congresswoman Gwen Moore Opposes Partisan FY 2027 Continuing Resolution

“Republicans have refused to negotiate FY 2027 spending in a bipartisan manner, instead advancing 12 partisan funding bills through the House Appropriations Committee.

Only two of those partisan bills have even passed the House with the start of FY 2027 fast approaching. Having utterly failed to do that work through which Congress exercises and protects its Constitutional power of the purse, they have now brought a nine-week Continuing Resolution (CR) to the floor. This bill was developed behind closed doors without any input from Democrats in either chamber.

With the Trump administration still refusing to treat Congress as a co-equal branch of government and voiding approved funding Trump doesn’t like, Republicans should work to protect the power of the purse. This CR does not. For example, I offered an amendment to the CR to block funding for a harmful May 2026 OMB rule that would change the federal grantmaking process and give political appointees greater power, making it easier for them to suspend or terminate federal grants for any reason. The Republican-led Rules Committee blocked that amendment.

Congress should also be working to protect our communities from rogue immigration tactics. This bill would also give the Trump administration license to transfer funding to the Border Patrol, without any significant reforms. As federal immigration efforts continue to murder people in the streets, we need accountability, not another blank check.

Funding reflects priorities, and Republicans are sabotaging this opportunity so they can please Trump. With nearly 9 weeks until the start of FY 2027, Republicans appear to be focused on trying to pass another partisan, reckless, reconciliation bill in September, which would give tens of billions for their unpopular war in the Middle East and serve as a vehicle for voter suppression legislation, the so-called SAVE Act. Republicans should be working with Democrats to fund the many priorities in our communities, especially when Americans are struggling with rising costs, not serving this President. I voted NO.”

Congresswoman Gwen Moore Statement on Republican Scheme to Disenfranchise Voters, Allow Insider Trading

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Congresswoman Gwen Moore Statement on Republican Scheme to Disenfranchise Voters, Allow Insider Trading

"Members of Congress should never use their positions to enrich themselves, including through stock trading. These rules should apply to the White House too, especially given the President has made billions off the presidency! We need to tackle corruption, which is why I support meaningful proposals to strengthen rules against insider trading by Congress and other officials.

Unfortunately, Rep. Steil’s legislation is not a congressional stock ban, it’s an empty gesture disguised as a serious proposal. Though it imposes some limited new restrictions, Members and their close family members would still be able to hold and sell stocks. While the bill does limit some securities purchases, it does not prohibit all of them. And it fails to keep the President, his family, and other high level Executive Branch officials from engaging in and profiting from the same conduct. All elected officials should be acting in the interest of the American people, not their investments.

While Republicans fail to meaningfully address concerns about insider trading, they are working to disenfranchise ordinary Americans at the ballot box. I continue to be disappointed that Rep. Steil, who represents my birthplace of Racine, is the architect of such voter suppression legislation, like the Voter ID Act and the so-called SAVE America Act. It is obvious that Republicans are coordinating with the Trump administration to undermine and rig the midterms. I will continue opposing their scheme.”

Moore, Warren, Booker, Adams, Underwood, Pressley, Dingell Work to Improve Maternal Health

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Moore, Warren, Booker, Adams, Underwood, Pressley, Dingell Work to Improve Maternal Health

According to the CDC, more than 80 percent of pregnancy-related deaths are preventable. Research has found that doula and midwifery care can reduce the use of C-sections and pre-term births and improve mothers’ wellbeing. Congresswoman Gwen Moore (D-WI), Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) Cory Booker (D-N.J), and Congresswomen Ayanna Pressley (D-Mass.), Lauren Underwood (D-Ill.), Alma Adams (D-N.C.) introduced the Mamas First Act, which would expand access to this care for mothers who rely on Medicaid.

“Across this nation, 40 percent of moms depend on Medicaid when they give birth. Instead of gutting and sabotaging Medicaid, we need to strengthen it so we can save lives. The Mamas First Act would provide mothers with access to evidence-based supportive care that can lead to healthier outcomes for them and their babies. At a time when stark disparities in maternal mortality continue to hit our communities hard, I am thrilled to have such incredible colleagues and advocates supporting the Mamas First Act and the ongoing fight to save lives,” said Congresswoman Gwen Moore.

“Instead of slashing health care for millions of Americans like Republicans in Congress are hellbent on doing, we should be expanding access to care to protect every momma and baby. It’s unthinkable that the richest country in the world would also have one of the highest maternal mortality rates. The Mamas First Act will help fix this crisis by improving access to high-quality care and rooting out the deep disparities and systemic racism in our health care system,” said Senator Elizabeth Warren.

“The Mamas First Act meets a crisis that is costing mothers their lives—especially Black and Indigenous women who walk into delivery rooms carrying risks no family should bear,” said Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ). “By ensuring Medicaid reimburses doulas, midwives, tribal midwives, and lactation support professionals, this bill delivers the trusted care that keeps mothers safe and babies alive. Congress must act now.”

“The quality of care a pregnant woman receives should not depend on the color of her skin, where she lives, or her ability to pay. Each childbirth is different, and women and their doctors should be empowered to decide what care is best. By providing access to adequate and proper maternal services, including doulas and midwives, we will help end the maternal mortality crisis in our country and ensure our children start their lives out healthy and strong,” said Congresswoman Debbie Dingell.

“Support from care workers like doulas and midwives can make the difference between a positive and healthy pregnancy outcome, and a devastating one. Every mom should be able to access this critically important care,” said Congresswoman Lauren Underwood. “As Co-Founder and Co-Chair of the Black Maternal Health Caucus, I’m proud to join Congresswoman Gwen Moore to introduce the Mamas First Act, a bold step to address our country’s maternal mortality crisis by expanding Medicaid coverage to include doula, midwife, and lactation care. Together, we can, and must, take decisive action to save lives and end disparities.”

“Every mother deserves the care and support needed for a healthy pregnancy and safe delivery,” said Congresswoman Adams, Co-Founder and Co-Chair of the Black Maternal Health Caucus. “That is why I am proud to support the reintroduction of the Mamas First Act. Research shows that doula and midwife care can improve maternal health outcomes and reduce pregnancy-related complications. Yet the United States continues to face an unacceptable maternal mortality crisis, and Black women are nearly three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than women of other racial and ethnic groups. Moms can’t wait, and neither should Congress. We must expand access to high-quality maternal care and ensure every mother has the opportunity to thrive before, during, and after pregnancy.”

Congresswoman Moore is a leader in addressing the maternal health crisis. As part of the Black Maternal Health Caucus, she has introduced the Perinatal Workforce Act, to strengthen the pipeline of culturally competent perinatal workers. She has also introduced the Mental Health and Making Access More Affordable (MAMA) Act, which would require private and public health care plans that cover mental health and substance use disorders treatment to offer this care with no co-pay.

Moore, Durbin, Schatz, Gillibrand Introduce Child Marriage Prevention Act

Fri, 17 Jul 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Moore, Durbin, Schatz, Gillibrand Introduce Child Marriage Prevention Act

Bicameral legislation takes important steps to help end child marriage in America

According to the Tahirih Justice Center, between 2000 and 2021, more than 314,000 minors (i.e., under the age of 18) were married in the United States. In certain instances, girls as young as 10 were married to men decades older. Child marriage is legal in 34 states, including Wisconsin. Congresswoman Gwen Moore, U.S. Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ranking Member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and U.S. Senators Brian Schatz (D-HI) and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) introduced the Child Marriage Prevention Act, which would take steps to reduce child marriage across the United States.

“The practice of child marriage should not exist anywhere, especially not in the U.S. But in 34 states, including Wisconsin, child marriage is legal. Young girls are put on a harmful trajectory in life that keeps them from controlling their own futures when they enter, or are forced to enter, into these marriages. I am proud to partner with Senator Durbin to protect young people from this predatory and harmful practice. Our legislation takes a critical first step toward ending child marriage and protecting our children,” said Congresswoman Gwen Moore.

“Child marriage overwhelmingly affects underage girls who are married to adult men, often with dire consequences for their life outcomes,” said Senator Durbin. “The bill builds on the work of countless survivors and advocates across the country to ban child marriage in the United States. We must enact this legislation at a federal level to protect the future of hundreds of thousands of young girls who have been stripped of their independence.”

“It’s unacceptable that hundreds of thousands of young girls are still forced into marriages they want no part of,” said Senator Schatz. “Our bill will help finally end this practice in the United States by updating our immigration laws and encouraging states to ban child marriage for good.”

“Child marriage leaves girls vulnerable to abuse and exploitation,” said Senator Gillibrand. “It is a predatory, manipulative practice that has no place in 21st century American society. The Child Marriage Prevention Act makes commonsense changes to help eliminate child marriage across the United States and protect our kids, and I look forward to getting it passed.”

“Girls are only as safe as the laws designed to protect them,” said Casey Carter Swegman, Director of Public Policy at Tahirih Justice Center. “For years, the United States has condemned child marriage abroad while failing to address the ways our own laws leave children here and around the world vulnerable to exploitation under the guise of marriage. The Child Marriage Prevention Act is a critical step toward changing that. By supporting states to take action to end child marriage and closing legal loopholes that can be used to exploit children, this bill sends a clear message: child marriage is wrong no matter where it occurs and we must end it! We are incredibly grateful to Senator Durbin and Congresswoman Moore for their leadership and to the many survivor advocates that have inspired and informed this urgently needed legislation.”

Specifically, the Child Marriage Prevention Act would:

Establish a National Commission to Combat Child Marriage to study, evaluate, and report on eliminating child marriage in the United States;
Require a report by the Government Accountability Office examining the harmful impacts of child marriage across the United States;
Incentivize states to ban child marriage (such as through increased Violence Against Women Act grant funding);
Fund states-based task forces to examine and issue recommendations for eliminating child marriage in their individual states;
Prohibit child marriage from occurring on federally funded land or buildings or property owned by the federal government (such as military bases).
Instruct the Attorney General to promulgate a model state statute that prohibits child marriage.
This bill would also close immigration loopholes that facilitate child marriage, requiring that both parties in a couple seeking a marriage-based visa be at least 18 years of age at the time of filing and for the U.S. petitioner to have been at least 18 years of age at the time of their marriage, with rare exceptions.
In addition, this bill would amend how a proxy marriage (in which one of the two parties is not physically present for the ceremony) can be established for immigration purposes, replacing a problematic consummation requirement that incentivizes rape, with a requirement that parties to a marriage have previously met in person within two years of the date of the ceremony.

The Child Marriage Prevention Act of 2026 is endorsed by Tahirih Justice Center, Too Young to Wed, Girls Not Brides, Womankind, Peaceful Families Project, Asian Pacific Institute on Gender-Based Violence, Sanctuary for Families, The Person Center, International Public Policy Institute, Daya, Inc, Global Hope 365, Naila Amin Foundation, Resiliency Foundation, SK Sultana LLC, and REVIVE Collective/RISE KY Coalition.

Congresswoman Gwen Moore Statement on Massie Amendment

Wed, 15 Jul 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Congresswoman Gwen Moore Statement on Massie Amendment

“Today, I voted in favor of the Massie Amendment to the FY 2027 National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, which would impose a one-year moratorium on funding to Israel. This vote represents a continuation of my commitment to the pursuit of peace between the Israeli and Palestinian people. It is my belief that a shift in tactics is now necessary because of my growing frustration with the right-wing government of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and its conduct throughout the region.

Successive U.S. Administrations have tried to rein in the Netanyahu government only to find those interventions obstructed, including negotiating and implementing critically needed ceasefires that would stop the bloodshed.

I remain singularly committed to peace, and it is my belief that the only way peace can be achieved is with a two-state solution where a sovereign Palestinian state exists alongside Israel. I wish the amendment had been more narrowly drafted so that it did not result in cuts to aid that has nothing to do with military actions or territorial expansions. I am especially pained that it would indiscriminately harm funding that fosters cooperation between Israelis and Palestinians. I hope that my vote for the Massie Amendment sends a clear signal that, while Israel, like all states, has a right to defend its borders and people, their actions must remain within the bounds enshrined in international law. U.S. aid should help create the conditions for a secure, prosperous, and peaceful future for Israelis, Palestinians, and the broader Middle East. My vote is especially well-timed to send this message, as it coincides with the looming expiration of the 2016 Memorandum of Understanding outlining U.S. aid to Israel.

I continue to see Israel as a vital American ally in the Middle East and the Israeli people as deserving of support to meet the security challenges they face from Hamas, Hezbollah, the Houthis, and other malignant actors in the region. In order to secure a lasting peace, the government of Israel must first reassess their current military posture; fully engage as a good-faith partner for peace, including in Lebanon and Gaza; address the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the region; take immediate steps to end illegal settlements in the West Bank and combat rising settler violence against Palestinian civilians.”

Congresswoman Gwen Moore Statement on Violent, Reckless ICE Arrests in Milwaukee

Thu, 02 Jul 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Congresswoman Gwen Moore Statement on Violent, Reckless ICE Arrests in Milwaukee

“I am fully aware of ICE’s escalating presence in our community. ICE agents are showing up masked, dressed in police tactical gear, and using excessive force, including shattering car windows to carry out arrests. Their reckless tactics are terrorizing families and inflicting real harm on our residents, especially across the South Side. ICE is operating like a rogue agency, and its abuses make clear that serious reforms are long overdue. This is exactly why I refused to give this out‑of‑control agency one more penny.

My constituents should know they are entitled to due process in our country. Every person has rights, no matter their status. As Wisconsin’s Fourth District representative, I will continue conducting oversight and doing everything in my power to protect my constituents.”

Congresswoman Gwen Moore Applauds Court Order Requiring Release of Salah Sarsour from ICE Detention

Thu, 18 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Congresswoman Gwen Moore Applauds Court Order Requiring Release of Salah Sarsour from ICE Detention

Congresswoman Gwen Moore today welcomed a federal judge's ruling ordering the release of Salah Sarsour from ICE detention, calling the decision a victory for due process and human dignity.

“Over the course of two visits, I observed troubling signs of declining health and raised serious concerns about the conditions of his confinement,” said Congresswoman Moore. “No person in ICE custody should be denied adequate nutrition, medical attention, or humane treatment."

Congresswoman Moore has repeatedly advocated on Mr. Sarsour's behalf, including through multiple letters to ICE officials demanding that he receive proper medical care and sufficient nutrition.

"The court's ruling affirms what many of us have been saying for months: Mr. Sarsour's continued detention was unjustifiable," Moore continued. "Thank you to the legal advocates, community leaders, and family members who fought tirelessly for Mr. Sarsour's release.”

Congresswoman Gwen Moore Statement on Iran “Deal” to End Republican War of Choice

Thu, 18 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Congresswoman Gwen Moore Statement on Iran “Deal” to End Republican War of Choice

“The war with Iran has killed Americans, Iranians, and others in the region, wasted billions, depleted military capacity, and made life more expensive for working people.

Trump didn’t do this alone: The Republican-led Congress allowed this costly war to continue and reach this vague, uncertain phase. There has never been a military solution to the challenges posed by Iran's nuclear program or regional activities. This ill-advised war only reaffirms that.

In the days to come, Congress must hold this Administration’s feet to the fire as implementation of this agreement and critical negotiations move forward. Congress must be provided with briefings, transparency, and more information regarding this memorandum of understanding (MOU) and the critical negotiations that come next. It’s what our Constitution requires as a co-equal branch of government.

Ultimately, any final negotiated agreement will be judged by whether it successfully addresses what this war could not: securing effective negotiated constraints on Iran's nuclear program, reducing regional tensions, and addressing the ongoing humanitarian and security crises.

If this agreement helps bring the conflict to a sustained close, it can save lives, reduce the risk of further regional escalation, and begin to alleviate the severe economic costs of the Republican war of choice.

If it does not, I fear it will only reaffirm that Republicans will continue to fail the American people.”

Congresswoman Gwen Moore Statement on Second Visit to Conduct Wellness Check on Salah Sarsour

Mon, 15 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Congresswoman Gwen Moore Statement on Second Visit to Conduct Wellness Check on Salah Sarsour

In Indiana, Congresswoman Moore joined advocates in a rally calling for Salah Sarsour’s release. She then visited Salah at the Clay County Jail. In response, she released the following statement:

“Yesterday, I conducted another wellness check on Salah. I saw and learned firsthand that he is not receiving proper medical treatment, most concerningly for his diabetes.

Salah is being targeted for his advocacy for Palestinians, but his mistreatment is part of the Trump administration’s larger campaign of hate against immigrants. Behind closed doors in ICE facilities around the country, people, including women and young children, face neglect and abuse.

The Administration wants the public to be desensitized to their cruelty and those in custody to grow weary.

As members of Congress, we must continue oversight of this Administration and press for answers and accountability. I will remain tireless in this work and will keep pushing for Salah’s release.”

Congresswoman Gwen Moore Invites Constituents to “Congressional Café” in Glendale

Sat, 22 Mar 2025 14:00:00 GMT

Congresswoman Gwen Moore Invites Constituents to “Congressional Café” in Glendale

District Listening Session in Milwaukee Saturday, March 22, 2025 Milwaukee, WI –

On Saturday, March 15, Congresswoman Gwen Moore (WI-4) will join constituents in a discussion about important federal legislative issues, events in Congress and constituent concerns. “The Congressional Café will engage even more of my constituents about legislative issues that are important to them.” For more information about this event, please call the Milwaukee office at 414-297-1140

WHO: Congresswoman Gwen Moore (WI-04)
Mayor Bryan Kennedy
State Senator Dora Drake
State Representative Deb Andraca
State Representative Darrin Madison

WHAT: Congressional Cafe

WHEN: Saturday March 22nd, 2025
10:00 am - 11:30 am

WHERE: Nicolet Union High School Auditorium

6701 N Jean Nicolet Rd

Glendale, WI 53217

Congresswoman Gwen Moore Invites Constituents to “Congressional Café” in Milwaukee

Sat, 15 Mar 2025 14:00:00 GMT

Congresswoman Gwen Moore Invites Constituents to “Congressional Café” in Milwaukee

District Listening Session in Milwaukee Saturday, March 15, 2025 Milwaukee, WI –

On Saturday, March 15, Congresswoman Gwen Moore (WI-4) will join constituents in a discussion about important federal legislative issues, events in Congress and constituent concerns. “The Congressional Café will engage even more of my constituents about legislative issues that are important to them.” For more information about this event, please call the Milwaukee office at 414-297-1140.

WHO: Congresswoman Gwen Moore (WI-4) State Representative Supreme Moore Omokunde Alderman Mark Chambers

WHAT: Congressional Café

WHEN: Saturday, March 15, 2025 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM

WHERE: Marshall High School (Auditorium) 4141 N 64th St Milwaukee, WI 53216

Congresswoman Gwen Moore Invites Constituents to “Congressional Café” in West Allis

Sat, 15 Mar 2025 17:30:00 GMT

Congresswoman Gwen Moore Invites Constituents to “Congressional Café” in West Allis

District Listening Session in Milwaukee Saturday, March 15, 2025 Milwaukee, WI

On Saturday, March 15, Congresswoman Gwen Moore (WI-4) will join constituents in a discussion about important federal legislative issues, events in Congress and constituent concerns. “The Congressional Café will engage even more of my constituents about legislative issues that are important to them.”

For more information about this event, please call the Milwaukee office at 414-297-1140.

WHO: Congresswoman Gwen Moore (WI-4) Mayor Dan Devine (invited) State Senator Tim Carpenter State Representative Karen Kirsch State Representative Angelito Tenorio

WHAT: Congressional Café

WHEN: Saturday, March 15, 2025 1:30 PM – 3:00 PM

WHERE: West Allis Public Library (Constitution Room) 7421 W National Ave West Allis, WI 5321