From the office of Rep. Derek Schmidt
Week of September 14, 2025
TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Rep. Derek Schmidt, R-Kan., outlined congressional priorities and recent activities in a newsletter to constituents, focusing on government funding challenges and healthcare initiatives.
Schmidt reported that the House passed legislation to fund the federal government for 50 additional days while negotiations continue on appropriations bills for fiscal year 2026. He said the measure must receive Senate approval by Sept. 30 to avoid a government shutdown.
The congressman expressed frustration that only three of 12 funding bills have passed the House floor, despite all 12 clearing the Appropriations Committee. Schmidt said he hopes the remaining bills will advance to continue spending reform efforts.
As a member of the House Judiciary Committee, Schmidt said he questioned FBI Director Kash Patel about the agency's efforts to combat drug trafficking and malicious drones as part of public safety initiatives.
Schmidt announced he received the Distinguished Health Care Advocate award from the Kansas Hospital Association for his work protecting rural hospital funding in budget reconciliation legislation. He said he plans to continue supporting Kansas hospitals serving families in the 2nd Congressional District.
The newsletter highlighted the Rural Health Transformation Program, noting that the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services released details on how states can apply for $50 billion in additional rural healthcare funding over five years. Schmidt said this represents a 50% increase in annual rural health funding.
Schmidt announced that military academy nominations are open, with applications due by 5 p.m. CT on Oct. 15, 2025. He noted that attending a service academy requires a five-year military commitment upon graduation.
The congressman also thanked various Kansas groups that visited Washington, including representatives from rural telecommunications, healthcare organizations and banking associations.
This summary is based on Rep. Schmidt's constituent newsletter.