Van Drew, Jeff RSS Articles

Van Drew, Bera, Boozman, and Booker Launch International Exchanges Caucus

Wed, 13 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Today, U.S. Representatives Jeff Van Drew (R-NJ, 2), Ami Bera (D-CA, 6), and U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR) and Cory Booker (D-NJ) announced the launch of the Congressional International Exchanges Caucus. The members are launching this caucus to bolster engagement and support for international exchange programs, particularly those administered by the Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA).

“International exchange programs are a smart investment in America’s future," said Congressman Van Drew. "They strengthen our relationships around the world and give people a firsthand look at our American values and our way of life. In South Jersey, the impact is clear. Programs like BridgeUSA help support our shore economy each summer, giving small businesses the workforce they need during our busiest time of year. I am proud to help launch this bipartisan caucus to support these programs."

“Educational and cultural exchange programs are among our most effective tools for building goodwill, strengthening our alliances, and advancing American values and strategic interests. These programs create lasting people-to-people ties that build mutual understanding and open doors for cooperation on shared challenges. I am pleased to help launch this bipartisan caucus to ensure Congress continues to support and strengthen these critical programs so they remain effective, sustainable, and central to America’s global leadership," said Representative Ami Bera.

“Cultural exchange is foundational to effective diplomacy, and strengthening our nation’s investment in these initiatives will encourage greater collaboration and mutually beneficial relationships for generations to come. Arkansas has played an outsized role in those efforts over many years, and we have seen firsthand how it can change the world. I’m proud to help launch the Congressional International Exchange Caucus and look forward to the opportunity to bolster this mission in a bipartisan, bicameral way," said Senator John Boozman.

“I am thrilled to join my colleagues in launching the first bipartisan, bicameral Congressional International Exchanges Caucus. Exchange programs strengthen all parts of American society and give back to local communities around the country. They help the United States remain internationally competitive, bolster our nation’s economy, and dramatically increase the United States’ global reach while enhancing national security. Through creation of this caucus, I am proud to continue the long tradition of bipartisan support for international exchanges and look forward to working with my colleagues to secure strong, sustained backing for these proven, cost-effective programs," said Senator Cory Booker.

International exchange programs provide unique opportunities for Americans to experience the world and develop critical skills. The Congressional International Exchanges Caucus is the platform for Members of Congress to hear directly from these Americans, their constituents, about the impact of international exchange programs on their states and districts. Finally, the Caucus enables its members to ensure ECA’s long-term programmatic sustainability and success by offering exclusive opportunities to engage with Administration officials on the latest topics impacting international exchange programs.

“International exchange programs are major contributors to the U.S.’ success at home and on the world stage and have long enjoyed bipartisan support. The creation of the Congressional International Exchanges Caucus reflects that enduring commitment and showcases Congress’ continued investment in the success of these programs. The Alliance for International Exchange proudly supports the caucus and looks forward to working with its members to promote and protect international exchange programs," said Mark Overmann, Executive Director, Alliance for International Exchange.

“As Chair of the Board of the Alliance for International Exchange, I am proud to support the establishment of the Congressional International Exchanges Caucus. This bipartisan effort recognizes that exchange programs are a cornerstone of American national security. By bringing emerging leaders to our shores and sending Americans to live, work, and study in regions of strategic importance, the U.S. reinforces its position through investment in American soft power. With the caucus now official, we look forward to advancing policies that protect these vital programs, ensuring they continue to serve as a high-return investment in American influence and security," said Tara Hofmann, CEO and President, AFS-USA.

Congressman Van Drew Introduces Bill to Suspend Federal Gas Tax

Mon, 11 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Washington, DC -Today, Congressman Van Drew announced he is introducing legislation to suspend the federal gas tax for 18 months to lower costs for American families. The bill would eliminate the current federal fuel taxes, including 18.3 cents per gallon on gasoline, 24.3 cents per gallon on diesel fuel and kerosene, and 19.3 cents per gallon on aviation gasoline. After 18 months, the taxes would gradually phase back in slowly instead of returning all at once.

"Americans are paying too much for gas right now, and the federal government can help relieve some of that pressure," said Congressman Van Drew. "My bill would completely suspend the federal fuel taxes for 18 months, so people are no longer paying those extra taxes per gallon every time they fill up their tank. That money adds up fast for families commuting to work or anyone who depends on their car every single day. This would put money back into people's pockets immediately. After 18 months, the taxes would slowly phase back in over time instead of hitting people all at once again.

"While we can address the federal gas tax in Congress, New Jersey's gas tax is controlled by the governor and state leaders. New Jersey drivers are paying roughly 49 cents per gallon in state gas taxes on top of everything else. I am calling on Governor Sherrill to suspend the state gas tax in a similar structure. Working families need real relief, and they need it now."

Congressman Van Drew Slams Big Oil for Profiting While Americans Pay More at the Pump

Mon, 04 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Washington, DC -Today, Congressman Van Drew criticized major oil companies as gas prices remain high and continue to strain American families.

"These companies are taking advantage of the situation, plain and simple," said Congressman Van Drew. "What is happening in the Middle East is being used as an excuse to maximize profits while hardworking Americans are stuck paying absurd prices. We have strong production here in the United States. We have supply. Prices should not be this high without companies doing everything they can to bring some relief to the people. These are American companies, and they should act like it. Put the American people and our own economy first. We can and should do better."

Congressman Van Drew Responds to Spirit Airlines Shutdown, Applauds Relief Efforts, Highlights Atlantic City Airport Readiness

Sat, 02 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Washington, DC -Today, Congressman Van Drew issued the following statement after the sudden shutdown of Spirit Airlines and the announcement of federal relief measures to assist impacted passengers and employees.

"The Department of Transportation is working with major airlines to cap fares and help stranded passengers get where they need to go, while also opening doors for Spirit employees to find new opportunities across the aviation industry," said Congressman Van Drew. "That is the right approach to stabilize things quickly and protect people caught in the middle of this situation. Here at home, we are prepared. Atlantic City International Airport is in a strong position, and I want to recognize the South Jersey Transportation Authority for doing the work ahead of time to handle challenges like this. Allegiant and Breeze are already positioned at Atlantic City and ready to step up and expand services where needed. I will do anything I can to help. My office is in contact with stakeholders, and we are focused on making sure South Jersey families and workers are supported every step of the way."

Congressman Van Drew: $400 Million Coast Guard Contract Officially Awarded, Project Moves into Design-Build Phase

Fri, 01 May 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Washington, DC -Today, Congressman Van Drew announced that the United States Coast Guard has officially awarded the $400 million contract to design and construct the new barracks and training facilities at Coast Guard Training Center Cape May. The contract moves the project into the design-build phase, bringing it one step closer to construction and giving a clearer picture of what these modernized facilities will look like once complete.

"This is the single largest federal investment in the history of South Jersey, and we are finally seeing it come to life," said Congressman Van Drew. "The contract is awarded, the design is moving forward, and this is where it starts to become real. Almost every enlisted member of the Coast Guard begins their service in Cape May, and these young men and women deserve modern, reliable facilities from day one. That is exactly what this project is going to deliver."

Congressman Van Drew Issues Statement on End of DHS Shutdown, Renews Push to Protect Federal Workers' Pay During Shutdown

Thu, 30 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Washington, DC -Today, Congressman Van Drew released the following statement after Congress passed legislation to end the partial shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security and restore funding for critical agencies, including the Coast Guard, TSA, FEMA, Secret Service, and CISA.

"This shutdown should have never happened in the first place," said Congressman Van Drew. "While I am glad this is over, I am not letting this go. Our federal workers should not have to worry if a paycheck is coming just because Congress cannot get its act together. That is why I will keep pushing my bill that would ensure members of Congress do not get paid during a shutdown, not even back pay once it is over. We owe the American people better than this, and we owe our federal workers a lot more stability than they got here."

Congressman Van Drew Provides Atlantic City Housing Authority Update, Announces Elevator Replacements

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Washington, DC -Today, Congressman Van Drew provided an update on conditions at the Atlantic City Housing Authority (ACHA), including immediate relief for residents and a long-term fix to ongoing elevator failures.

"Elevators breaking down in these buildings has been a problem across multiple ACHA properties for years, especially Shore Park Hi Rise on Virginia Avenue, where many seniors and residents with disabilities live," said Congressman Van Drew. "It is unacceptable. Since the federal takeover of the ACHA, real leaders have been put in charge to take action and fix these problems. Recently, I announced more than $12 million in federal funding to help stabilize the ACHA and improve conditions for residents. I can now confirm that a portion of that funding will be used to fully replace the broken elevators. In the meantime, the elevators are operating again, and HUD has people on the ground right now helping residents day-to-day with groceries, mobility needs, and anything else that comes up. We are going to keep working until these conditions are fully fixed for the long term."

Residents in need of assistance should contact Judy Grate in Resident Services at 609-957-0798.

Congressman Van Drew Announces Over $1.4 Million for South Jersey Airports

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Washington, DC -Today, Congressman Van Drew announced over $1.4 million in federal funding for airport improvement projects across South Jersey through the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) Airport Infrastructure Grant program.

"These are the kinds of investments that keep South Jersey going," said Congressman Van Drew. "Our local airports are used every day, and they need to be safe, functional, and able to support themselves. This money helps make that happen. The funding will go toward the final phases of the new hangars at the Millville and Ocean City airports and the new taxiway at the Woodbine airport, helping bring these airports up to standard and keep them running the way they should. I will keep fighting for these kinds of investments because they make a real difference for our communities."

Reps. Van Drew, Riley Introduce Bill to Let Families Deduct Taxes and Fees Driving Up Utility Bills

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Washington, DC -Today, Congressman Jeff Van Drew (R-NJ), along with Congressman Josh Riley (D-NY), introduced H.R. 8350, the No Taxes on Utility Bills Act, which would let taxpayers deduct all taxes and state-mandated surcharges included on their gas and electric bills from their federal taxable income, giving New Jersey families a much-needed tax break.

"People are fed up with opening their utility bills and seeing line after line of extra charges that keep pushing the cost higher," said Congressman Van Drew. "They are paying more and more every month, and a big part of that is taxes and state-mandated charges that have nothing to do with how much energy they use. This bill would let taxpayers write off those extra charges to effectively lower their taxable income and keep more of their hard-earned dollars. While this is a state issue, both in terms of what is driving these high bills and what needs to be done to bring them down, I am going to keep doing everything I can at the federal level to help lower these costs. This bill is a simple, common-sense way to give these families some relief."

This bill builds on Congressman Van Drew and Congressman Riley's No Bonuses for Utility Executives Act, which focuses on eliminating utility executives' bonuses when rates increase.

"The people of New Jersey are struggling to keep up, and then they see executives getting bonuses while their bills go up," Congressman Van Drew continued. "That is backwards. If you are raising rates faster than inflation, you should not be receiving bonuses. Maybe then they will reconsider their insane rate increases."

Click here to read the text of H.R. 8350, the No Taxes on Utility Bills Act.

Click here to read the text of H.R. 6590, the No Bonuses for Utility Executives Act.

Congressman Van Drew Announces $12.4 Million for the Atlantic City Housing Authority

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Washington, DC -Today, Congressman Van Drew announced that the Atlantic City Housing Authority (ACHA) will receive $12.4 million in federal funding through the Department of Housing and Urban Development's (HUD) Operating Shortfall program.

"The people living in these buildings have been through a lot, and they deserve stability," said Congressman Van Drew. "This funding helps set the ACHA up for success, so the residents have safe, reliable housing. It will help cover basic operating costs to allow the housing authority to continue serving residents and stabilize day-to-day operations. I fought for years to get the federal government to step in and take control of the ACHA, and we got that done. Now we are continuing to build on that progress and make sure things are finally moving in the right direction."