Latta, Bob RSS Articles

Latta Statement on America's Semiquincentennial

Sat, 04 Jul 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Today, Congressman Bob Latta (OH-5) released the following statement on the United States of America's 250th anniversary of independence:

"As we celebrate the 250th anniversary of our nation's independence, we reflect on the extraordinary courage and conviction of the patriots who gathered in Philadelphia to declare that all people are created equal and endowed by their Creator with the unalienable rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

“For two and a half centuries, generations of Americans have worked to preserve and strengthen the freedoms established by our Founding Fathers. From the brave men and women who have defended our nation in uniform to the countless Americans who have contributed to their communities, each generation has helped carry forward the promise of the American dream.

“The United States of America is the longest lasting, freely elected government in the world. As we commemorate this historic milestone, we honor our nation's rich history, celebrate the enduring principles that unite us, and further liberty and opportunity for future generations. As we celebrate 250 years of American independence, it is a tremendous honor to represent the people of Ohio’s Fifth Congressional District and continue working to preserve the freedoms and opportunities that have made out nation the best nation in the world. May God continue to bless the United States of America, and happy Independence Day."

House Passes Latta and Matsui's Bill to Strengthen Grid Security

Mon, 29 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Today, the House of Representatives passed the Security Community Upgrades for a Resilient (SECURE) Grid Act, legislation introduced by Congressman Bob Latta (OH-5), Chairman of the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Energy, and Congresswoman Doris Matsui (CA-7). This bipartisan bill would empower states to fully assess risks to the electric grid from extreme weather, physical and cyber threats, and other vulnerabilities. Congressman Latta is the co-chair of the Grid Innovation Caucus.

"America's electric grid must be secure and resilient to ensure families and businesses have reliable access to affordable energy. From extreme weather to physical and cyber threats posed by our adversaries, protecting our nation's energy infrastructure is a matter of national security. That's why I was proud to lead the SECURE Grid Act with Rep. Matsui. I thank Rep. Matsui for her partnership in advancing this bipartisan legislation through the House. Together, we are taking an important step to strengthen the resilience of our electric grid, helping Ohioans and Americans across the country access reliable, affordable energy and ensuring they can count on keeping the lights on,” said Latta.

"Americans depend on reliable and affordable electricity for every aspect of their lives. Today's passage of the bipartisan SECURE Grid Act is a major step toward building a stronger, more reliable power grid that prevents blackouts, protects communities from extreme weather, and keeps electricity affordable. Californians know all too well the dangers and challenges posed by extreme weather, and we can't afford to wait until the next emergency to act. This bill takes a smarter approach by planning ahead, strengthening our energy infrastructure before problems occur, and helping ensure families across America have affordable power for years to come,” said Matsui.

Congressman Latta spoke on the House floor today in support of his bill. To watch his remarks, click here.

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 Welcomes 2026 Congressional Art Competition Winner to Capitol

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Today, Congressman Bob Latta (OH-5) welcomed Ohio’s Fifth Congressional District winner of the 2026 Congressional Art Competition, Sarah Mathey, to the U.S. Capitol. Mathey, a recent graduate of Bowling Green High School, joined fellow winners from across the country in Washington, DC, for the unveiling of their artwork displayed at the Capitol. Her piece, “Hometown,” will hang in the Capitol for the next year.

“I am delighted to welcome Sarah to the U.S. Capitol for the unveiling of her artwork. Ohio’s Fifth District is home to tremendous talent, and I am proud that her piece will be displayed here for all visitors to see,” said Latta.

“My piece, ‘Hometown,’ allowed me to showcase the charming aspects Bowling Green has to offer and the opportunities it gives to everyone who crosses its path. I am proud to represent my community in this year’s Congressional Art Competition and am extremely thankful for what Bowling Green has given me over the past 18 years,” said Mathey.

Established in 1982, the Congressional Art Competition encourages and recognizes the creativity of high school students across the country. Since its inception, more than 650,000 students have participated. Each year, the Congressional Art Competition provides a unique opportunity to showcase the outstanding artistic talent found throughout Ohio’s Fifth Congressional District. This year, 57 students representing 13 high schools across Ohio’s Fifth Congressional District participated in the competition. In May, Latta hosted a reception at Bowling Green State University to recognize all participants and display their artwork for family members, friends, and community supporters.

Latta Pushes for Full Energy and Commerce Committee Consideration of the Ratepayer Protection Act

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Today, Congressman Bob Latta (OH-5), Chairman of the Energy Subcommittee on Energy and Commerce, released the following statement after chairing a subcommittee markup on legislation aimed at protecting Americans from rising electricity costs:

“We must ensure that American families are not left footing the bill for the significant grid upgrades and increased electricity demand driven by new AI infrastructure and other large load operations.

“The Ratepayer Protection Act establishes a baseline standard to protect consumers from sudden and significant rate increases associated with data centers and other high-energy users. Following today’s Energy Subcommittee markup, I am pleased the bill advanced by a vote of the subcommittee.

“I urge the full Energy and Commerce Committee to take up this legislation immediately so we can move it through the House, secure Senate passage, and send it to the President’s desk to be signed into law.”

The Ratepayer Protection Act passed out of the Energy Subcommittee.

Latta Applauds FDA Approval of First New Sunscreen Ingredient in More Than 20 Years

Wed, 17 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Today, Congressman Bob Latta (OH-5) released the following statement after the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced that bemotrizinol has been added to the list of permitted sunscreen active ingredients. Bemotrizinol is the first new active ingredient added to the over-the-counter (OTC) sunscreen monograph in more than 20 years.

"FDA's announcement in adding bemotrizinol to a list of permitted sunscreen active ingredients is a significant step forward in expanding access to innovative sunscreen products for American consumers. For too long, the FDA's approval process prevented new sunscreen ingredients that are widely used around the world from becoming available in the United States. The reforms included in the OMUFA Act helped modernize the review process, and this decision demonstrates the importance of continuing to advance innovation while ensuring consumers have access to safe and effective products,” said Latta.

In July 2025, Congressman Latta introduced the bipartisan Over-the-Counter Monograph Drug User Fee Amendments (OMUFA) to reauthorize the Over-the-Counter Monograph User Fee Program, which helps provide Americans with access to safe and effective over-the-counter medicines. The legislation was signed into law in November 2025 as part of a Continuing Resolution.

A member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, Congressman Latta has consistently advocated for improving the FDA's review process for sunscreen ingredients. During a recent committee hearing, he highlighted the need to modernize the agency's sunscreen approval framework and ensure Americans have access to the latest sunscreen innovations.

The Courier: What Northern Ohio Means to Me

Mon, 15 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

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

“When I think of home, I think of my deep family roots in Ohio. My dad, Del Latta, was the second of six children, and was born in Weston and spent the formative years of his life growing up in McComb. My paternal grandfather had a one chair barbershop in Hoytville. The Lattas most probably came to the Ohio territory before 1800.

“My mom, Rose Mary (Kiene) Latta, was the second of seven, and was born and raised on the family homestead farm in Putnam County that our ancestors had settled on in the 1840s. Moving from McComb, my parents came to Bowling Green, and this is where our family called home. I am fortunate that so many of my relatives lived nearby. I believe I have learned much from them throughout my life. Hard work and thrift are a common thread that has been passed down from one generation to the next...”

Latta Welcomes Members of the British-American Parliamentary Group to Washington, DC

Tue, 09 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Today, Congressman Bob Latta (OH-5) welcomed members of the British-American Parliamentary Group to Washington, D.C., to strengthen the longstanding partnership between the United States and the United Kingdom and foster dialogue on shared economic, energy, security, and technology priorities.

The British-American Parliamentary Group (BAPG) serves as an important forum for promoting closer relations and greater understanding between Members of the United Kingdom Parliament and the United States Congress. Throughout the visit, participants will engage in discussions on issues of mutual interest and explore opportunities to further enhance the special relationship between our two nations.

As Co-Chair of the British-American Parliamentary Group, Congressman Latta is committed to strengthening transatlantic cooperation and advancing the enduring friendship between the United States and the United Kingdom.

“The United States and the United Kingdom share one of the strongest partnerships in the world. I am pleased to welcome members of the British-American Parliamentary Group to Washington as we continue working together to strengthen our economic, energy, security, and technology ties. These discussions are important to advancing our shared interests and reinforcing the special relationship between our two nations,” said Latta.

In April of 2026, Congressman Latta served on the Escort Committee for His Majesty, King Charles III, for his Joint Meeting of Congress.

Latta Pays Tribute to Ohio Fallen Hero Edward D. Brown at Normandy American Cemetery

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

In recognition of the 82nd anniversary of D-Day, Congressman Bob Latta (OH-5) honored Ohio fallen hero First Lieutenant Edward D. Brown, who was laid to rest at the Normandy American Cemetery in France.

Last month, Congressman Latta led a bipartisan Congressional Delegation (CODEL) to France to evaluate the country's spent nuclear fuel recycling industry and broader nuclear energy capabilities. While in France, the delegation also traveled to Normandy to pay tribute to the brave Americans who fought to liberate Europe during World War II. At the Normandy American Cemetery, members participated in a flag-lowering ceremony and honored the sacrifice of First Lieutenant Edward D. Brown of Ohio, and the other 9,000+ American military personnel buried there.

First Lieutenant Edward D. Brown was born on July 18, 1916, in Cuyahoga County, Ohio. He joined the National Guard on March 5, 1941, and in 1942 was assigned to the 106th Cavalry Reconnaissance Squadron. The Squadron sailed for France on June 29, 1944, shortly after the Allied landings in Normandy. The unit entered combat on July 2, 1944, supporting operations to eliminate German forces isolated during the Allied advance across the Normandy Peninsula.

The Squadron later conducted offensive screening operations through Normandy and into Brittany. On July 5, 1944, Lieutenant Brown was wounded when an enemy shell made a direct hit on an armored car near which he was standing with a superior officer. He succumbed to his wounds on July 7, 1944, near La Haye-du-Puits, France. First Lieutenant Edward D. Brown rests today at the Normandy American Cemetery, where his sacrifice—and the sacrifices of thousands of other American service members—continue to be remembered and honored.

"As we mark the 82nd anniversary of D-Day, we remember the courage and sacrifice of the brave Americans who fought to defend freedom. It was a privilege to honor First Lieutenant Edward D. Brown, an Ohioan who gave his life in service to our country. We must never forget the sacrifices made by the Greatest Generation and those who rest at Normandy,” said Latta.

Latta, Carter Introduce Bill to Protect American Wi-Fi from Foreign Adversaries

Thu, 04 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Today, Congressman Bob Latta (OH-5) and Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (LA-2) introduced the Advancing American Wi-Fi Against Foreign Adversaries Act, a bipartisan bill that strengthens coordination between the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), Federal Communications Commission (FCC), and State Department while promoting a consistent international approach to unlicensed spectrum use without binding the United States to specific technical standards or outcomes. As the United States prepares for the 2027 World Radiocommunication Conference, it is crucial that the U.S. government adopts a clear, coordinated strategy to defend global access to this spectrum.

“As we prepare for the 2027 World Radiocommunication Conference, congressional oversight is essential to ensure the United States is ready and speaking with one voice during these high-stakes international negotiations. I am proud to introduce this bill alongside my colleague, Rep. Carter, to strengthen U.S. leadership in global spectrum policy ahead of this critical conference cycle. As global competition over reliable Wi-Fi and spectrum policy continues to grow, this legislation will help ensure America remains competitive and well-positioned for the future,” said Congressman Bob Latta (OH-5).

"Reliable, affordable Wi-Fi is not a luxury — it is a lifeline for families, small businesses, and communities across Louisiana. As co-chair of the Wi-Fi Caucus, I know how much is at stake when foreign adversaries seek to undermine critical infrastructure that millions of Americans depend on every day. This bipartisan legislation ensures that as we head into the 2027 World Radiocommunication Conference, the United States shows up unified, prepared, and committed to protecting the connectivity that powers our economy and our way of life," said Congressman Troy A. Carter, Sr. (LA-2).

"We commend Reps. Latta and Carter for introducing the 'Advancing American Wi-Fi Against Foreign Adversaries Act,' which recognizes the vital role that Wi-Fi plays in the U.S. economy and our national security. Wi-Fi is the workhorse of the internet — carrying 90% of mobile traffic — and generates over $1 trillion in economic activity every year. As China aims to dedicate all spectrum to licensed use, it is vital that the United States maintain its balanced approach, including robust unlicensed and shared spectrum. Upholding this leadership ensures continued innovation, economic growth, and affordable connectivity for Americans,” said Cory Gardner, President & CEO, NCTA - The Internet & Television Association.

Congressmen Latta and Carter are the co-chairs of the Wi-Fi Caucus.

Latta Introduces Bill to Increase Transparency and Accountability in Medicaid HCBS Programs

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 04:00:00 GMT

Today, Congressman Bob Latta (OH-5) introduced the Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) Anti-Fraud Reporting Act of 2026, a bill requiring states to report on efforts to identify and prevent waste, fraud, and abuse. This legislation promotes transparency and accountability while preserving state flexibility in administering HCBS programs.

Home and community-based services (HCBS), authorized under Section 1915(c) of the Social Security Act, allow Medicaid beneficiaries to receive care in their homes or communities rather than in institutional settings. While HCBS programs are vital to millions of Americans, their rapid growth and decentralized administration create vulnerabilities to improper payments and fraudulent activity.

Currently, there is no uniform federal requirement for states to regularly report specifically on HCBS fraud detection and deterrence activities. This bill would amend Section 1915(c)(2) of the Social Security Act to require states, on an annual basis, to submit a report to the Secretary of Health and Human Services that includes a summary of any waste, fraud, or abuse detected in HCBS waiver programs and a description of actions taken to prevent, detect, and address such activities.

“Home and community-based services (HCBS) play an important role in helping Americans receive care in the setting that best meets their needs. As these programs continue to grow, we must ensure taxpayer dollars are being responsibly used. The HCBS Anti-Fraud Reporting Act will increase transparency and accountability by helping states identity and address waste, fraud, and abuse while preserving the flexibility they need to administer these programs effectively,” Latta said.

The HCBS Anti-Fraud Reporting Act of 2026 is co-sponsored by Rep. Dave Taylor (OH-2), Rep. Tom Barret (MI-07) and Rep. Jodey Arrington (TX-19).

This bill is supported by Americans for Prosperity, The Libre Initiative and Able Americans.

"Congratulations to Congressman Latta on offering a commonsense answer to a serious problem. Federal health care programs are rampant with waste, fraud, and abuse. This bill would help reduce those improper payments, within an important part of Medicaid, by arming policymakers with better data. AFP will be urging all Members of Congress to support the HCBS Anti-Fraud Reporting Act of 2026 because it will benefit patients and taxpayers alike without any new spending, taxes, or mandates,” said Dean Clancy, Senior Health Policy Fellow, Americans for Prosperity.

"The LIBRE Initiative is proud to support the HCBS Anti-Fraud Reporting Act of 2026. This legislation is not simply about saving taxpayer dollars, but at its core, it's about ensuring our most vulnerable fellow Americans receive the care they were promised. Over 5 million Americans rely on home and community-based services, including hundreds of thousands of Latino seniors who are the fastest growing elderly demographic in our country. In 2024 alone, Medicaid fraud units recovered over a billion dollars. When fraud goes unchecked, it is these families who suffer most,” said Sandra Benitez, Executive Director, The LIBRE Initiative.

“Able Americans supports Rep. Bob Latta’s HCBS Anti-Fraud Reporting Act of 2026, legislation that calls on states to increase transparency and accountability in Medicaid Home- and Community-Based Services. For millions of Americans with disabilities, HCBS is not optional—it is the support that allows them to live in their homes, remain connected to their families, participate in their communities, and avoid unnecessary institutional care. These services are a lifeline. But when waste, fraud, or abuse occurs, it threatens both taxpayers and the people with disabilities who depend on these programs for daily care. Able Americans applauds Rep. Latta for his leadership to protect Medicaid HCBS, safeguard taxpayers, and verify that states guard these critical services remain available for the people who need them most,” said Rachel Barkley, Director of Able Americans.

The HCBS Anti-Fraud Reporting Act of 2026 would:

Establish consistent, nationwide reporting on HCBS program integrity;
Provide federal policymakers with better data to identify trends and risks;
Encourage states to enhance anti-fraud systems and safeguards.