Latta, Bob RSS Articles

The Washington Times: Congress must pass the SECURE Grid Act

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Read an excerpt of the op-ed below, or click here to read the piece in its entirety.

“This year, Ohio and communities across the country have faced a wave of extreme weather – tornadoes, severe windstorms, hurricanes, and deep freezes – that have tested the reliability of our electric grid. When disasters strike, families do what they can to prepare like stocking up on essentials in case the power goes out. But Americans shouldn’t have to rely on backup plans to keep the lights on. They should be able to count on a resilient, reliable electric grid that withstands these challenges from the start.

“In Ohio and across the Midwest, we have seen firsthand how prolonged outages can shutter small businesses, disrupt hospital operations, close schools and leave families without heat in the dead of winter. These are not just inconveniences. They are serious threats to public safety, economic stability and daily life...”

Latta Tours First Solar and Whirlpool, Emphasizes U.S. Supply Chains

Mon, 13 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Last Friday, Congressman Bob Latta (OH-05) joined U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer for visits to the First Solar manufacturing campus and one of Whirlpool’s several facilities in Ohio. The visits included tours of both campuses and discussions surrounding strengthening America’s supply chains and advancing American innovation and manufacturing.

First Solar continues to play a key role in building domestic supply chains for solar energy, creating American jobs, and supporting local communities. The company remains committed to manufacturing in the United States and investing in its future. By the midpoint of President Trump’s term, First Solar expects to bring $1.5 billion in new U.S. manufacturing capacity online across the United States, creating 1,400 additional good-paying American manufacturing jobs.

Whirlpool is making significant investments in Ohio, announcing a $60 million expansion that is expected to create up to 150 new jobs in Perrysburg. This investment further strengthens the region’s manufacturing base and supports continued economic growth in Northwest Ohio.

“It was great to visit both First Solar and Whirlpool with U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer. When companies like First Solar and Whirlpool invest in expanding American manufacturing, they create good-paying jobs, strengthen our supply chain resilience, and help keep our nation competitive in Ohio and across the country. These investments will bring additional jobs to Wood County, further strengthening our local economy and creating more opportunities for Ohio workers,” said Latta.

Latta Sends Letter to Secretary Duffy Applauding Administration's Autonomous Vehicle (AV) Leadership

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Last week, Congressman Bob Latta (OH-5) sent a letter to U.S. Secretary of Transportation Sean P. Duffy applauding the Department of Transportation (DOT) and National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for their recent efforts to advance the safe deployment of AVs across America.

The letter follows NHTSA’s March 10th National AV Safety Forum. At the forum, Administrator Morrison highlighted the safety benefits of AVs, the need for a federal AV framework, and plans for updated AV guidance. This builds on prior Administration action and leadership in automated driving systems.

In his letter, Congressman Latta underscored how AVs can usher in a new era of safety; the need for a federal AV framework; and the stakes of competition with China.

"The Administration has demonstrated unparalleled leadership in safety advancing AV technology. I commend Secretary Duffy and Administrator Morrison for their ongoing efforts to promote this life-saving technology. That said, executive action alone falls short. Congress must act now to ensure durable statutory clarity. This is why I introduced the SELF DRIVE Act, which prioritizes safety, a single federal AV standard, and American competitiveness. If America fails to deliver clear rules, Communist China will scale its technology, influence global standards, and steal manufacturing jobs that must remain in America," said Latta.

Background:

Congressman Latta has been working on autonomous vehicle legislation since 2017. During the 115th Congress, his SELF DRIVE Act passed the House, making it the first Congressional proposal to address autonomous vehicle technology.

Latta introduced the SELF DRIVE Act of 2026 on February 5, 2026. The bill would strengthen safety requirements, clarify NHTSA's authority, improve crash data transparency, and promote U.S. leadership in autonomous vehicles innovation. Last month, the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade advanced the bill.

Congressman Latta is the co-chair of the Congressional Autonomous Vehicle Caucus; a bipartisan caucus aimed at educating Congress on how autonomous vehicle technology can improve the safety and accessibility of the nation’s roads.

Read the full letter here and below:

Dear Secretary Duffy:

I write to applaud the Department of Transportation and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) for the Administration’s recent efforts to advance the safe deployment of autonomous vehicles (AV) in the United States. Most recently, at NHTSA’s March 10th National AV Safety Forum, Administrator Morrison highlighted the safety benefits of AVs, emphasized the need for a single federal vehicle safety standard, and announced plans for updated AV guidance later this year. This forum builds on the Administration’s broader record of AV leadership. It follows the AV Framework unveiled last spring, the streamlining of the Part 555 exemption process, and the issuance of the first-ever demonstration exemption for American-made AVs.

Safety is at the core of this transformative technology. Nearly 40,000 Americans die on our roads each year, and 94% of crashes are linked to human error. AVs can drastically reduce fatalities caused by distraction, impairment, and fatigue, but to realize that promise, we need clear national rules that prioritize safety and enable responsible deployment. These systems are safe, and we have the data to prove it. Waymo reports over 127 million autonomous miles and substantially lower rates of injury-causing crashes than human drivers, including 85 percent fewer serious injury crashes and 92 percent fewer pedestrian injury crashes.

The forum also reinforced the need for one federal AV framework. More than 35 states have enacted AV laws, resulting in a patchwork that slows deployment and makes it harder for American companies to invest with confidence. The federal government has always overseen the design, construction, and performance of vehicles, and should continue to do so for AVs. As Administrator Morrison argued, “We want to ensure that as AVs cross state lines, the rules remain clear.”

When unveiling the Administration’s AV Framework, you warned that “we’re in a race with China to out-innovate, and the stakes couldn’t be higher.” The United States cannot afford to lose this race. Baidu has already completed over 17 million rides, and Beijing has mandatory AV standards that take effect this year. If America fails to deliver clear national rules, China will scale its technology, influence global standards, and steal manufacturing jobs that should have remained in America.

The AV Safety Forum made clear that the Administration understands the stakes. I appreciate the continued AV leadership NHTSA, the Department, and the Administration have shown. Congress should build on this progress with durable statutory clarity that prioritize safety, a federal standard, and American competitiveness. I look forward to working with you and Administrator Morrison as we advance a responsible federal AV framework.

Thank you for your continued engagement on this issue.

Latta Introduces STOP Nitazenes Act to Combat Rising Synthetic Opioid Deaths

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Today, Congressman Bob Latta (OH-5) introduced the Strengthening Tools to Outlaw Poisonous (STOP) Nitazenes Act, a bill to permanently schedule 2-benzylbenzimidazole opioids, commonly known as nitazenes, as Schedule I controlled substances. Fatal overdoses continue to rise across the United States, and nitazenes, a dangerous class of illicit synthetic opioids, are increasingly contributing to overdose deaths nationwide.

"Families in Ohio and across the nation have already felt the devastating impact of the ongoing fentanyl crisis. With the rise in nitazene use, the opioid epidemic is becoming even more dangerous. That's why I introduced the Stop Nitazenes Act, to permanently classify nitazenes as a Schedule 1 drug, the most restrictive category, and to help curb the use of illegal opioids in our country. We must act now to stay ahead of the growing number of lives affected by this deadly drug," said Latta.

Background:

Depending on the chemical formulation, some nitazenes can be up to 800 times more potent than morphine and 40 times more potent than fentanyl. Like other illegal street drugs that are often laced with fentanyl, substances may also contain nitazenes without the user’s knowledge. According to Medical Discovery News, up to 2,000 people have died from nitazene-related overdoses since 2019. Without greater awareness and education about these substances, that number is expected to grow.

Latta has also championed the HALT Fentanyl Act, which was signed into law on July 16, 2025. The law permanently classifies fentanyl-related substances as Schedule I drugs under the Controlled Substances Act.

Energy and Commerce Committee Passes Latta's SECURE Grid Act

Thu, 05 Mar 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Today, the House Energy and Commerce Committee unanimously passed Energy Subcommittee Chairman Bob Latta’s SECURE GRID Act, bipartisan legislation that empowers states to fully assess risks to the electric grid from extreme weather, physical and cyber threats, and other vulnerabilities. This bill is co-led by Congresswoman Doris Matsui (D-CA-07).

“States must have a fully accessible plan in place to respond when threats are posed to the electric grid. As Chairman of the Energy Subcommittee on Energy and Commerce and Co-Chair of the Grid Innovation Caucus, ensuring America’s electric grid is secure and resilient for families and businesses across the country remains a top priority. I thank my Energy and Commerce Committee colleagues for advancing this legislation at today’s markup, and I urge the House to swiftly bring it to a vote,” said Latta.

“Keeping the lights on should never be a gamble. Across America, a power outage can mean a life-threatening scenario during extreme temperatures, a parent scrambling to keep insulin cold, or a senior worrying about a medical device. The SECURE Grid Act takes a commonsense step to strengthen the local grid that serves our communities and protect it from extreme weather, physical threats, and cyberattacks. I’m glad this bipartisan bill passed out of committee, and I’ll keep pushing to get it to the House floor,” said Matsui.

Background on the SECURE Grid Act:

States must submit a State Energy Security Plan (SESP) annually to receive funds from the State Energy Program. State Energy Offices use these funds to implement energy security and resiliency plans, invest in domestic energy resources, reduce energy waste, pilot innovative energy projects, and more. A state's SESP allows it to recognize, respond to, and mitigate weaknesses in its energy infrastructure.

While SESPs are currently required to consider broad vulnerabilities, including physical and cyber-attacks, the SECURE Grid Act adds necessary detailed data to these reports, requiring states to consider:

threats posed to local distribution facilities and supporting grid infrastructure, like distribution substations;
the risks posed by increasing grid demand;
available technologies to mitigate threats to energy distribution and rising grid demand;
the distinctions between weather-related threats and threats from a physical act of violence;
the utility of public-private partnerships in meeting energy security needs;
the availability of innovative financing models that may save taxpayer dollars and increase access to digital grid technology; and
the role of vendors in maintaining a secure, reliable, and resilient energy distribution system.

Latta Statement on Mortgage Rates Reaching Lowest Level Since 2022

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Today, Congressman Bob Latta (OH-5) released the following statement on mortgage rates falling to their lowest level since 2022:

“Falling mortgage rates offer much needed relief for hardworking families who have been priced out of homeownership for far too long. With rates at their lowest level in four years, families across Ohio’s Fifth Congressional District now have greater opportunities to achieve the dream of owning a home. Lower rates mean reduced monthly payments, increased purchasing power, and greater financial flexibility for prospective buyers, while also strengthening the financial stability of current homeowners. This progress underscores the Administration’s continued commitment to lowering costs for Americans. House Republicans and the Trump Administration will keep working to build a strong, accessible housing market that works for every American family. Promises made, promises kept.”

Latta Statement on the State of the Union

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Congressman Bob Latta (OH-5) released the following statement after the State of the Union Address from President Donald Trump:

“President Trump's State of the Union was a reminder that when policies are focused on better outcomes for American families and workers, our country thrives.

“The American Dream is coming back for working people because the Republican agenda is delivering real results. The Working Families Tax Cuts created a fairer, more efficient tax system, and families are seeing the impact where it matters most: in a stronger economy, bigger paychecks, and more affordable everyday costs. From lower energy bills to a simpler tax-filing process, life is becoming more affordable, and Republicans are leading the way.

“As President Trump stated, the flow of fentanyl across our borders is down 56 percent in just one year. I am proud that my legislation, introduced with Rep. Morgan Griffith, the HALT Fentanyl Act, was signed into law last July to protect American communities by cracking down on deadly fentanyl substances and saving lives. Illicit fentanyl is a weapon of mass destruction and this law is already making a real difference.

“Our economy continues to gain strength, with 172,000 new private-sector jobs added in January 2026 alone, clear proof that pro-growth, pro-worker policies are working. Our health care system has been streamlined, reducing waste, fraud, and abuse left by the Biden Administration and we’ve strengthened Medicaid. Since the beginning of this year, Republicans have delivered meaningful action to lower health care costs for Americans, including the launch of TrumpRx and passing the most Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBM) reforms ever enacted to date. At the same time, our borders are more secure, and law and order are being enforced so Americans can feel safe in their communities.

“Alongside President Trump, Republicans in Congress have slashed the far-left energy agenda that drove up prices under the Biden Administration, and as a result, will save the average American household $2,900 in 2026. Costly subsidies and regulations aimed at eliminating natural gas and coal have weakened our nation’s energy supply, increased utility rates, and undermined energy reliability. By unleashing American energy dominance, we are strengthening our energy security, keeping the lights on, and lowering costs for families across the country.

“President Trump secured our borders on the first day of his Administration by making clear that illegal immigration would be stopped and that Biden-era open-border policies would not be tolerated.

“As we continue to celebrate our nation’s semiquincentennial, we are reminded that the United States of America remains the greatest place in the world to live, work, and raise a family. When we stand united, our communities are stronger and more prosperous.”

Chuck Bills, President/CEO at Ohio Logistics, to Join Latta at the State of the Union Address

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT

This evening, Congressman Bob Latta (OH-5) will be joined by Chuck Bills, President and CEO at Ohio Logistics, for the President’s State of the Union Address.

“I am pleased to announce that Chuck Bills, President and CEO of Ohio Logistics, will be my guest at this year’s State of the Union address. Since its founding in 1988 as a single 40,000-square-foot facility, Ohio Logistics has grown into a company that now owns and operates more than 8 million square feet across 27 locations in six states, employing over 450 associates. A steadfast leader from Findlay, Chuck has led the company with a strong commitment to innovation, growth, and supporting Ohio’s workforce. Beyond his business leadership, Chuck is also a dedicated supporter of Flag City Honor Flight, generously giving his time and resources to ensure our veterans can visit the Washington, D.C. memorials built in their honor. It is wonderful to have Chuck join me tonight, and I thank him for all he does for Ohioans,” said Latta.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to attend tonight’s State of the Union and hear from President Trump. It is an honor to be invited by my Congressman, Rep. Bob Latta, and I thank him for his continued leadership and strong advocacy for Ohioans back home. I look forward to hearing the President’s vision for our nation and the priorities ahead,” said Chuck Bills.

Latta Has Pay Withheld During Partial Government Shutdown

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Congressman Bob Latta (OH-5) has had his pay withheld by the Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) for the length of the partial government shutdown. Latta announced on his social media accounts on February 14, the first day of the shutdown, that he had provided CAO with a letter asking for his pay to be withheld.

“I strongly urge the Senate to act quickly so the government can reopen. During a government shutdown, no Member of Congress should receive a paycheck, especially when our military personnel, federal law enforcement, and other government employees are not being paid. On the first day of the shutdown, I instructed CAO to withhold my paycheck. Instead of relying on individual decisions, congressional pay should be paused by default whenever the government shuts down,” Latta said.

Latta Introduces Legislation to Safeguard Autonomous Vehicles

Fri, 06 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT

Yesterday, Congressman Bob Latta (OH-5) introduced the Safely Ensuring Lives Future Deployment and Research in Vehicle Evolution Act of 2026 (SELF DRIVE Act). As first reported in Punchbowl News, this bill strengthens safety requirements, clarifies NHTSA’s authority, improves crash data transparency, and promotes U.S. leadership in autonomous vehicles innovation.

Roadway safety remains a critical issue nationwide. Human error remains the leading cause of car accidents nationwide. Each year, nearly 40,000 Americans lose their lives in traffic-related crashes. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), an estimated six million accidents occur annually, with 94 percent attributed to human error.

Additionally, it is crucial that the United States maintain its leadership in the technology competition with China, particularly as China seeks to dominate the global autonomous vehicle market.

“Autonomous vehicle technology has the potential to protect millions of Americans from traffic accidents and fatalities, while making our communities safer and more accessible. With the right framework in place, we can prioritize safety, transparency, and innovation while keeping pace with advancements in AV technology. The SELF DRIVE Act updates federal motor vehicle safety laws to establish a clear, national framework for the resting, deployment, and oversight of autonomous vehicles, ensuring consistent standards across states and promoting trust in this emerging technology. By strengthening America’s role in developing and regulating the autonomous vehicle framework, we can ensure innovation thrives here at home. Standing up to China means keeping these jobs in America and securing our position as a global leader in autonomous vehicle development and manufacturing,” Latta said.

“The U.S. has both an opportunity and responsibility to lead the world in the development and deployment of next-generation technologies. The SELF DRIVE Act can create the necessary framework to facilitate autonomous vehicle innovation and ensure Americans can safely enjoy the benefits of these advancements,” said Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Brett Guthrie.

"The Autonomous Vehicle Industry Association commends Representative Latta on introduction of the SELF DRIVE Act, which will help establish a federal policy framework for autonomous vehicles. Representative Latta’s legislation prioritizes safety through rigorous oversight while clearing the path for American companies to lead globally. This bill creates what autonomous vehicle leaders need: clear rules, strong safety standards, and the regulatory certainty needed to scale deployment nationwide,” said Jeff Farrah, CEO of the Autonomous Vehicle Industry Association.

“Honda commends Congressman Latta’s efforts to advance the SELF DRIVE Act of 2026 to establish a single national standard for automated vehicle technology. Honda supports a clear regulatory framework for the safe and responsible deployment of AV technology in America that will promote long-term U.S. leadership in the global auto market,” said Jennifer Thomas, Senior Vice President of Corporate Affairs, American Honda Motor Company.

“It’s tempting to think of the SELF DRIVE Act as a technology bill. It’s more than that. This is really a plan to advance American competitiveness and national security. Rep. Latta gets this, and it’s why he has never given up on a national autonomous vehicle framework. Countries around the world are racing to shape the AV future. It’s time for Congress to get a bill across the finish line and clear the way for more AV testing and safe deployment here at home," said John Bozzella, president and CEO, Alliance for Automotive Innovation.

"AVs represent a generational opportunity to save lives, strengthen supply chains, and expand access to transportation for millions of Americans. The technology is ready – what we need now is clear, consistent national policy. Congress must ensure America remains the global leader in mobility by advancing a regulatory framework that prioritizes certainty, safety and American competitiveness," said Gary Shapiro, Executive Chair and CEO, Consumer Technology Association.

"The SELF DRIVE Act would establish a clear national framework for the deployment of autonomous vehicles that will save American lives and unlock significant growth in US manufacturing. Thank you, Congressman Latta, for your continued leadership. Tesla remains a committed partner in advancing policies that prioritize safety, accessibility, and American competitiveness," said Tesla, Inc.

Background:

Congressman Latta has been working on autonomous vehicle legislation since 2017. During the 115th Congress, his SELF DRIVE Act passed the House, making it the first Congressional proposal to address autonomous vehicle technology.

Last month, Congressman Latta participated in a House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Commerce, Manufacturing, and Trade hearing to discuss the draft of his bill, to watch the discussion, click here.