{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where chamber = \"Senate\", state = \"MI\" and year = 2022 sorted by date descending", "rows": [["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-stabenow-announce-lower-health-care-and-prescription-drug-costs-for-michiganders-going-into-effect-january-1st", "Peters, Stabenow Announce Lower Health Care and Prescription Drug Costs for Michiganders Going Into Effect January 1st", "2022-12-30", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "DETROIT, MI \u2013 U.S. Senators Gary Peters (MI) and Debbie Stabenow (MI) today announced that several Inflation Reduction Act provisions will go into effect on January 1, 2023, cutting costs for Michiganders across the state. A $35 monthly cap on the cost of insulin for Medicare recipients and free vaccines for seniors on Medicare are among the measures that will take effect in the new year. Peters and Stabenow helped pass into law the Inflation Reduction Act in August.\n\n\u201cNo one should have to choose between getting the health care and prescription drugs they need and putting food on the table,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cThere\u2019s no question that\u2019s a reality too many Michiganders face. That\u2019s why I\u2019m pleased help is on the way and starting January 1st insulin will be no more than $35 a month for seniors on Medicare and vaccines will be fully covered\u2014with no out-of-pocket costs.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis year, Senator Peters and I stood up to Big Pharma and won\u2014passing laws to lower the cost of health care in Michigan. On January 1st, the price of insulin will immediately drop for seniors on Medicare and they will not have to pay for their vaccines,\u201d said Senator Stabenow.\n\nBeginning January 1, 2023, the following Inflation Reduction Act provisions will go into effect:\n\nInsulin will cost no more than $35 a month for seniors on Medicare.\n\nEstimates show that more than 73,000 Michigan seniors with diabetes are expected to benefit from this measure that caps out-of-pocket costs at $35 a month for insulin.\n\nAll vaccines will be free for seniors on Medicare.\n\nApproved vaccines under Medicare Part D will be free, which will help an estimated 176,500 Michiganders.\n\nWith this provision implemented, nearly 9 out of 10 of Americans will have access to vaccines with no out-of-pocket costs.\n\nPrescription drug rebates will go into effect for Medicare.\n\nPharmaceutical companies will be required to pay back the federal government through rebates if prices for critical prescription drugs covered through Medicare rise faster than inflation. This measure is aimed to lower costs for Medicare patients and discourage pharmaceutical companies from exploiting inflation to hike up their prices.\n\nThe Inflation Reduction Act was signed into law in August 2022. In addition to lowering health care and prescription drug costs, the law makes landmark investments to tackle climate change, creates good-paying jobs and incentivizes domestic manufacturing, while fighting inflation and reducing the deficit.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/-peters-bipartisan-bill-to-fight-human-trafficking-signed-into-law", "Peters Bipartisan Bill to Fight Human Trafficking Signed Into Law", "2022-12-28", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Bipartisan legislation authored by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, to enhance our nation\u2019s ability to combat human trafficking has been signed into law. The new law will make permanent and strengthen the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Center for Countering Human Trafficking (CCHT).\n\n\u201cHuman trafficking continues to leave deep traumatic scars on victims and families in Michigan and across the country,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cThis new law will help enhance our ability to stop these crimes by ensuring the Center for Countering Human Trafficking has what it needs to disrupt human trafficking organizations and protect victims of these horrific crimes.\u201d\n\nMillions of men, women, and children are trafficked worldwide \u2013 including thousands in the United States. According to DHS, traffickers might use violence, manipulation, false promises of jobs that pay well, or romantic relationships to lure victims into trafficking situations. Based on calls to the National Human Trafficking Hotline, the Polaris Project found that in 2020 there were at least 16,658 human trafficking victims and survivors in the United States. However, the actual number of these crimes is likely much larger because these crimes often go unreported. In addition, the Michigan Human Trafficking Commission says that an extremely high number of human trafficking cases involve the sexual exploitation of a child. Eradicating these heinous crimes will require stronger anti-trafficking policies and ensuring that law enforcement professionals and the public are able to recognize indicators of human trafficking.\n\nThe Countering Human Trafficking Act makes permanent the CCHT, which oversees DHS\u2019s efforts to combat human trafficking and the importation of products that are made with forced labor. The Center also ensures the Department is leveraging and coordinating its capabilities and resources to fight back against traffickers. The law allows the CCHT to build out their permanent staff with Special Agents, criminal analysts, and others. It also allows the Center to modernize their systems and operations to support worldwide investigations on human trafficking and forced labor in supply chains, and bolster efforts to protect human trafficking victims. Finally, the law expands and improves national public awareness and law enforcement training initiatives to boost efforts to counter trafficking.\n\nPeters\u2019 legislation to increase coordination between Department of Homeland Security components and the Blue Campaign, a national public awareness effort designed to educate law enforcement and the public to recognize human trafficking, was signed into law as a part of last year\u2019s National Defense Authorization Act.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-bipartisan-bill-signed-into-law-to-better-predict-severe-weather-and-protect-michiganders", "Peters Bipartisan Bill Signed into Law to Better Predict Severe Weather and Protect Michiganders", "2022-12-28", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 The President has signed into law U.S. Senator Gary Peters\u2019 (MI) bipartisan legislation to establish a National Integrated Flood Information System. The bill recently passed the U.S. House of Representatives and unanimously passed the U.S. Senate last year.\n\nThe Flood Level Observation, Operations, and Decision Support (FLOODS) Act \u2013 which Peters reintroduced with U.S. Senator Roger Wicker (R-MS) \u2013 will provide funding to strengthen the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration\u2019s (NOAA) ability to forecast floods, hurricanes, and tornados and disperse relevant information to local officials and first responders. Peters is a member of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, which oversees NOAA.\n\n\u201cIt\u2019s important we have the resources to better prepare for severe weather like flooding, particularly as storms continue to worsen due to climate change,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cThat\u2019s why I was proud to help champion this bipartisan bill into law, which will strengthen NOAA\u2019s ability to predict severe weather and protect the lives and livelihoods of folks across our state.\u201d\n\n\u201cFlooding is a common and deadly natural disaster in the U.S., resulting in over $25 billion in annual economic losses,\u201d said Senator Wicker. \u201cEvents in my home state of Mississippi, such as the prolonged opening of the Bonnet Carr\u00e9 spillway and the Pearl River and Yazoo backwater floods, underscore the importance of an effective understanding and response to high water. This legislation will protect lives and property by directing NOAA to improve its flood monitoring, forecasting, and communication efforts.\u201d\n\n\u201cWith flash floods occurring more frequently in every corner of the nation, early and reliable detection and warning is critical to save life and property,\u201d said Cheryl Small, Executive Director, National Flood Association. \u201cWe believe the integration and partnerships \u2014 including with the private sector \u2014 that will be developed or improved through this legislation will result in a more prepared and resilient nation.\u201d\n\n\u201cInvesting in science and NOAA\u2019s prediction and communication capabilities will help keep communities \u2014 particularly vulnerable communities in coastal and inland floodplains\u2014safe,\u201d said Rachel Cleetus, Policy Director and Lead Economist, Union of Concerned Scientists Climate & Energy Program. \u201cThis timely legislation will improve the NOAA\u2019s forecasting through comprehensive data collection and integration at multiple levels, including governmental, private and non-governmental agencies and organizations.\u201d\n\n\u201cImproving the nation\u2019s resiliency to natural catastrophes including flooding will take the combined efforts of individuals, communities, businesses, and governments,\u201d said Nathaniel F. Wienecke, Senior Vice President, American Property Casualty Insurance Association. \u201cOn behalf of our members, we commend Senator Peters and Senator Wicker for addressing this important issue by taking action to improve flood monitoring and forecasting.\u201d\n\nThe FLOODS Act is also supported by the American Association of Flood Plain Managers, the American Property Casualty Insurance Association, National Wildlife Federation, Environmental Defense Fund, National Society of Professional Surveyors, and the U.S. Geospatial Executives Organization.\n\nThe bipartisan bill will also form partnerships between NOAA and institutions of higher learning to bolster total water predictions, assign a service coordination hydrologist at each National Weather Service River Forecast Center to support decision making on the local and statewide levels, and establish a committee to increase coordination between federal agencies responsible for water management.\n\nPeters has led numerous efforts to support Michigan communities that have been affected by flooding and other severe weather events. Peters secured $500 million in funding as part of the bipartisan infrastructure law for a program he created to help states establish revolving loan programs for local governments to carry out mitigation projects that reduce the risk of natural disasters, including extreme flooding, shoreline erosion, and rising water levels. As Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, Peters also convened a hearing with disaster preparedness and response experts to hear how worsening natural disasters, including flooding, severe storms, and wildfires, continue to harm lives and livelihoods in Michigan and across the nation.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-bipartisan-legislation-to-prevent-conflicts-of-interest-in-federal-contracting-signed-into-law", "Peters Bipartisan Legislation to Prevent Conflicts of Interest in Federal Contracting Signed Into Law", "2022-12-27", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Bipartisan legislation authored by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) to help identify and mitigate potential conflicts of interest between taxpayer-funded projects and government contractors\u2019 other business opportunities has been signed into law. The federal government contracts with private companies to support important government functions, such as the delivery of services and the approval of prescription drugs. However, many contractors also conduct business with the private sector or other outside entities, and this can raise questions about the reliability of consultations, advice, or projects under federal contracts if not handled appropriately. The law requires updates to existing rules to protect the integrity of services while allowing contractors to continue pursuing business opportunities to the greatest extent possible.\n\n\u201cGovernment agencies should know about whether federal contractors\u2019 outside business interests might conflict with their work for Michiganders and Americans,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cThis new law will ensure federal contractors are providing transparency about potential conflicts before they are awarded taxpayer dollars.\u201d\n\nReports have highlighted the need to prevent conflicts of interest within companies that are awarded federal contracts. For example, McKinsey & Company, a management consulting corporation often hired by the federal government, was paid more than $140 million dollars since 2008 by the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) to help support their oversight work of pharmaceutical companies, including determining the safety and efficacy of prescription pain medications. At the same time, McKinsey had not disclosed to the FDA that they were also consulting for several opioid manufacturers on how these companies could effectively market their products. This has called into question whether consultants from McKinsey were providing biased advice to the FDA, and whether that advice was influenced by their relationship with the drug makers whose business practices are a root cause of the opioid epidemic. Peters\u2019 law will give federal agencies a process to evaluate similar potential conflicts of interest to ensure that federal consultants and other contractors are using taxpayer dollars to work in Americans\u2019 best interests.\n\nThe Preventing Organizational Conflicts of Interest in Federal Acquisition Act requires agencies to identify potential conflicts for specific contracts early in the process. Federal contractors will be required to disclose other business relationships with entities that conflict with the specific work that an agency has hired them to do. Private companies under contract with the U.S. government would also have to disclose new potential business that opposes ongoing services they are providing to the American people. The law ensures federal contractors are aware of disclosure requirements and how working with agencies could impact other parts of their business. Finally, the law requires federal agencies to assess and update their procedures for determining whether contractors could have a conflict of interest.\n\nBelow are statements in support of Peters\u2019 bipartisan law:\n\n\u201cThe U.S. government increasingly relies on government contractors for their expertise on matters that threaten our nation's safety and security. Yet, based on current federal contract regulations, agencies cannot always discern whether government contractors have business relationships with foreign governments and private entities that could create a conflict of interest,\u201d said Noah Bookbinder, President of Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington. \u201cTo protect the integrity of services provided to the United States, CREW endorses the Preventing Organizational Conflicts of Interest in Federal Acquisition Act, which would require greater transparency in contractor business relationships in order to prevent conflicts of interest.\u201d\n\n\u201cCompanies perform mission-critical government functions. Organizational conflicts present one type of ethics risk to the government, and they must be identified and avoided through careful government oversight, said Scott Amey, General Counsel for the Project on Government Oversight. \u201cWithout more guidance, organizational conflicts of interest can result in unfair competitive advantages and biased contract awards\u2014both of which compromise the impartiality of the federal government and the integrity of the contracting process.\u201d\n\n\u201cWhen government policymaking is tainted by conflicts of interest, it weakens the legitimacy and credibility of the entire process. That erodes public confidence in government and harms democracy,\u201d said Scott Greytak, Director of Advocacy for Transparency International U.S. \u201cThis law promotes greater transparency and accountability to ensure the public can trust that government is making decisions with their best interests at heart.\u201d\n\nIn his role on the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, Peters has worked to ensure government is effectively serving the American people. His bipartisan legislation to strengthen protections for Inspectors General so they can conduct independent oversight to root out waste, fraud and abuse of taxpayer dollars will soon be signed into law. The Senate has also passed Peters\u2019 bipartisan bill to improve our nation\u2019s ability to prevent foreign governments, including adversaries like the Chinese and Russian governments, from attempting to influence U.S. policy without making appropriate disclosures.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-led-provisions-to-support-michigans-defense-sector-signed-into-law", "Peters-Led Provisions to Support Michigan\u2019s Defense Sector Signed Into Law", "2022-12-23", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 President Biden signed the bipartisan annual national defense bill into law today, which U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI), a former Lieutenant Commander in the U.S. Navy Reserve and member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, played a key role in passing out of the Senate. Peters successfully led or supported provisions in the law to invest in Michigan\u2019s military facilities, strengthen our national security, bolster troop preparedness, combat PFAS contamination and give our servicemembers a pay raise.\n\n\u201cThese critical investments will not only support Michigan\u2019s defense sector but the men and women in uniform across our state who play a key role in our national defense. From efforts to combat PFAS contamination \u2013 to ensuring our troops are well-prepared \u2013 to bolstering Michigan\u2019s military installations \u2013 this law takes important steps to have the backs of those who selflessly serve our nation,\u201d said Senator Peters, a former Lieutenant Commander in the U.S. Navy Reserve and member of the Senate Armed Services Committee. \u201cThis national defense law will also provide our troops a well-deserved pay raise and strengthen our national security.\u201d\n\n\u201cSenator Peters continues to be a champion for the Michigan National Guard who fights to ensure our Soldiers and Airmen have the federal support they need to perform their mission,\u201d said Major General Paul D. Rogers, Adjutant General and Director of the Michigan Department of Military and Veterans Affairs. \u201cThis year\u2019s NDAA contains many wins for Michigan that will keep our installations and facilities at the forefront of Department of Defense training and ensure Michigan remains a vital enabler of our National Defense Strategy.\u201d\n\nThe National Defense Authorization Act sets annual policy for the Department of Defense (DOD). The defense bill has been signed into law for more than 60 straight years.\n\nThe following provisions Peters led or supported, including the authorization of more than $40 million in funding for Michigan\u2019s military facilities, were secured in the law:\n\nInvesting in Michigan Military Facilities:\n\n$1.6 Million for Army Reserve Center at Southfield: Peters included an authorization of $1.6 million to complete the construction of maintenance facilities at the Army Reserve Center in Southfield. This builds on Peters\u2019 efforts in last year\u2019s national defense bill to secure a $12 million authorization to help construct new maintenance facilities at the Army Reserve unit in Southfield, which allows servicemembers who serve as mechanics to maintain and extend the lifespan of military vehicles and enable them to utilize the latest equipment and facilities.\n\n$16 Million for National Guard Armory at Camp Grayling: Peters secured an authorization of $16 million for a National Guard armory at Camp Grayling. This funding authorization aligns with the President\u2019s budget calling for funding the armory and helps ensure the Armory can receive full appropriations. This follows Peters\u2019 efforts in last year\u2019s national defense bill to secure the authorization of $5.7 million for the construction of a power generation system.\n\n$24 Million for Marine Corps Reserve Unit at Battle Creek: Peters included an authorization of $24 million for new supply and storage facilities for the Marine Corps Reserve Unit in Battle Creek. This builds on Peters\u2019 efforts in last year\u2019s national defense bill to secure the authorization of $10 million to construct a new main gate and entrance facility to Battle Creek Air National Guard Base.\n\nAddressing PFAS Contamination:\n\nTackling PFAS Contamination: Peters has led the charge in the Senate addressing PFAS contamination. The national defense law includes a Peters-led effort that will bolster the Department of Defense\u2019s (DoD) transparency surrounding PFAS research to keep servicemembers and communities safer. It asks DoD to establish practices to ensure the timely and complete dissemination of research findings and data relating to PFAS to the general public. It will also specifically ask DoD to release to the public within 180 days up-to-date information on any research collaborations, the development and testing of fluorine-free firefighting foam, PFAS health effects and the impacts on veterans and military families, and treatment options for drinking water and safe PFAS disposal. Peters also supported provisions to phase out the military purchase of firefighting equipment containing PFAS and authorize significant funding to clean up PFAS contaminated military sites.\n\nSupporting Michigan\u2019s Defense Sector and Advanced Technology:\n\nFunding Electrification Technology for Army Vehicles: Peters secured a $5 million authorization to help fund the continued development of Next Generation Electrified Transmission, as well as a provision encouraging continued Army funding towards the project to reduce fossil fuel reliance and meet climate strategy goals. This funding will ensure that vital work to develop next-generation, hybrid engines can continue being done in Michigan.\n\nEnsuring Appropriate Use and Recycling of Federal Electric Vehicle Batteries: The bipartisan law includes a provision, based on Peters\u2019 Strategic EV Management Act, that will ensure government agencies are properly using and recycling batteries from the federal fleet of electric vehicles (EVs). The provision will help the federal government provide American manufacturers with a domestic supply of reusable EV batteries and the rare metals needed to make them, while reducing our nation\u2019s dependence on foreign suppliers for these limited, but critical resources.\n\nSupport for Ground Combat Vehicles: Peters supported an increase in authorization of funding for ground combat vehicles \u2013 including the Abrams tanks, Stryker vehicle upgrades, and Paladin Integrated Management (PIM) systems. General Dynamics Land Systems in Sterling Heights is the prime contractor for the Stryker armored vehicle and many Michigan companies serve as suppliers for each of these platforms.\n\nBolstering Cybersecurity Efforts: Peters supported a provision to establish the DoD Cyber and Digital Service Academy as a scholarship-for-service program partnered with universities and colleges in the United States, with a DOD service requirement for participants. As Chairman of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, Peters is leading the charge to strengthen our cybersecurity and has passed into law significant cybersecurity reforms.\n\nEnsuring Agencies Can Quickly Adopt Cloud-Based Technology: Peters secured a provision, based on his bipartisan bill, to ensure federal agencies are able to quickly adopt cloud-based technologies that improve government operations and efficiently provide services to Americans. The provision will also make sure federal cloud systems \u2013 which store a considerable amount of personal and sensitive information \u2013 are secure from cyber-attacks.\n\nSecuring and Preventing Misuse of Data Collected By Artificial Intelligence: The package includes a provision, based on bipartisan legislation authored by Peters, that will ensure that government contractors are securing and using data collected by artificial intelligence technology, such as biometric data from facial recognition scans, in a way that protects protect national security and in ensures the privacy and rights of all Americans.\n\nSupporting Our Troops, Their Families, and Their Communities:\n\nPay Raise for Troops: Peters supported a 4.6 percent pay raise for both military servicemembers and the DoD civilian workforce.\n\nSupporting Troop Preparedness: Peters secured a provision highlighting the importance of cold weather training and mandating that DoD provide a report detailing existing all-domain warfighting centers that are able to support arctic like training exercises. Also included was a provision supported by Peters that authorizes $32.5 million in funding for female/small stature body armor.\n\nPromoting STEM Education through STARBASE: Peters supported efforts to authorize significant funding for STARBASE, a DoD Youth Program that promotes STEM education. Selfridge Air National Guard Base in Harrison Township is home to the first STARBASE program, which specifically provides K-12 students unique experiences in experiential learning, simulations and experiments in aviation and space-related fields.\n\nSupporting Defense Community Infrastructure Projects: Peters secured language altering the requirement for the Defense Community Infrastructure Program (DCIP) by allowing for land which is community owned but DoD leased to be eligible for DCIP project funding \u2013 allowing for the possibility of communities near Selfridge Air National Guard Base to apply for DCIP funds. Historically, DCIP projects have been used to improve access to and from military facilities, build more resilient infrastructure, enhance quality of life among servicemembers and their families, and bridge the gap between defense installations and the communities they serve.\n\nSafeguarding Houses of Worship: Peters helped secure a provision to reauthorize the Nonprofit Security Grant Program at $360 million. Peters has long championed and supported increased funding for this program, which provides grants to help houses of worship and at-risk nonprofits plan for and safeguard their facilities against potential attacks.\n\nInvest in Defense Operations and Support U.S. Security Interests:\n\nSupporting Ukraine and Key Allies: The law extends and modifies the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI), which provides appropriate security assistance to the Government of Ukraine and to other forces or groups recognized by, and under the authority of, the Government of Ukraine; and authorizes funding to provide security assistance to Ukraine via this authority.\n\nSupporting Counter Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) Research: Peters supported provisions to reauthorize cooperation between the U.S. and Israel on counter-unmanned aerial systems issues. This builds on Peters\u2019 efforts in the previous national defense bill, which authorized a program for joint research and development with Israel on counter-unmanned aerial systems technology. A range of unmanned aerial systems from small, commercially available platforms to larger, armed aircraft pose a threat to both the United States and Israel. This cooperative research program will allow the United States military to benefit from Israel\u2019s expertise and experience in countering unmanned aerial systems.\n\nSupporting Defense Relationship Between U.S. and Israel: Peters included a provision to clarify the requirements and expectations from Congress for the U.S. Israel Operations Technology Working Group. Peters previously called for the formation of the working group with the Israeli government to focus on shared defense technology issues and coordinate defense capabilities, research and development.\n\nSupporting Taiwan: Peters supported the authorization of the Taiwan Enhanced Resilience Act of 2022, including various provisions designed to increase security cooperation with Taiwan consistent with the Taiwan Relations Act, which will help deter aggression from the Chinese government.\n\nBuilding Information Operations: Peters included a requirement for the DoD to better identify and build up partner nation capacity to conduct information operations.\n\nInvesting in the U.S. Coast Guard:\n\nU.S. Coast Guard Great Lakes Center of Expertise: The bill authorizes additional funding for the operation of the U.S. Coast Guard Great Lakes Center of Expertise for Oil Spill Preparedness and Response. In 2018, Peters authored a provision that was signed into law to establish the Great Lakes Center of Expertise to examine the impacts of oil spills in freshwater environments and help develop effective responses. Peters later secured $4.5 million for the Center of Expertise, and led efforts to ensure it was headquartered in Michigan. Peters helped cut the ribbon at the Center of Expertise at Lake Superior State University\u2019s Center for Freshwater Research and Education.\n\nImprove U.S. Coast Guard Data on Oil Spill Modeling: The law incorporates a recommendation from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine to ensure the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) acquires all data relevant to advanced predictive modeling for spills of diluted bitumen being transported by pipelines. NOAA has begun incorporating new data on this practice; however, they are not required by law to do so. Therefore, this commonsense provision authored by Peters will require U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) to acquire this data to improve oil spill preparedness moving forward.\n\nAuthorize Funding for New Great Lakes Icebreaker: The bill provides an authorization of $350 million in funding to acquire an additional Great Lakes icebreaker.\n\nAddress Backlog of USCG Infrastructure Projects: The bill will begin to address the current backlog of USCG infrastructure projects in the Great Lakes by requiring an annual report from USCG on shoreside infrastructure needs by region.\n\nModernizing Water Infrastructure:\n\nWater Resources Development Act: The bipartisan Water Resources Development Act is included in the national defense bill. Peters helped secure major water infrastructure investments \u2013 including the authorization of projects through the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to modernize the Soo Locks, stop invasive carp, prevent coastal erosion and flooding, and improve water quality in Michigan, among other priorities.\n\nOther Provisions:\n\nBolstering Federal Response to Disasters and Emergencies: Peters also helped secure provisions to strengthen our federal government\u2019s response to natural disasters and emergencies. One bipartisan provision, based on legislation Peters helped introduce this summer, will ensure our nation is better prepared for high-consequence events, regardless of the low probability, such as new strains of disease, biotechnology accidents, or naturally occurring risks such as super volcanoes or solar flares that though unlikely, would be exceptionally lethal if they occurred. Peters also secured a provision that will expand mental health assistance for communities recovering from the psychological effects of natural disasters and other emergencies.\n\nStrengthening Protections for Inspectors General: As Chair of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, Peters has long worked to ensure government works effectively and efficiently. Peters secured long overdue reforms, based on legislation he championed in the Senate, to strengthen protections for inspectors general who conduct independent oversight to prevent and uncover fraud, waste, and abuse of tax dollars in the federal government.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-secures-major-wins-for-michigan-helps-senate-pass-government-funding-bill", "Peters Secures Major Wins for Michigan, Helps Senate Pass Government Funding Bill", "2022-12-22", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) today helped the Senate pass an essential bipartisan government funding bill for Fiscal Year 2023. Peters successfully secured funding in the legislation for dozens of high-impact public local projects in Michigan that can benefit from federal assistance. Peters also supported or led provisions to protect the Great Lakes, support our veterans and troops, address PFAS contamination, fund the CHIPS and Science Act, bolster Michigan manufacturing, protect houses of worship, and keep investing in the bipartisan infrastructure law, among other priorities. This legislation now heads to the House of Representatives where it is anticipated to be passed quickly prior to being sent to the President\u2019s desk to be signed into law.\n\n\u201cThere is no doubt that this government funding bill makes needed investments to improve the lives of Michiganders across our state,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cIt includes federal resources for dozens of local high-impact public projects in Michigan that I fought for, which will meet the needs of Michigan communities and address the issues that matter most to them. I\u2019m also proud to have supported and secured efforts that will help protect the Great Lakes, invest in key workforce training, education and manufacturing programs, upgrade our infrastructure, and support Michigan\u2019s defense footprint.\u201d\n\nPeters supported or led the following key provisions on issues important to Michiganders:\n\nProtecting the Great Lakes and Improving Water Quality in the Region\n\nGreat Lakes: The bill includes $368 million to support the efforts of the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative. This funding will be used to combat the greatest threats to the Great Lakes, including invasive species, harmful algal blooms and loss of fish and wildlife habitats.\n\nProtect Against Asian Carp: The bill includes $47.9 million for the Brandon Road Lock and Dam project, which was supported by Peters in the Water Resources Development Act. This funding will be used to initiate construction on the project, which is critical to preventing the further spread of invasive Asian carp. The bill also invests $14.3 million for the Chicago Sanitary and Ship Canal Dispersal Barrier at Des Plaines River, which is a key control mechanism for protecting the Great Lakes from invasive Asian carp.\n\nAddressing PFAS Contamination: Peters has pushed for continued efforts to address PFAS contamination. The bill includes $5 million for the Department of Agriculture to support efforts to address PFAS contamination in agriculture. It also includes $2.7 million for the U.S. Geological Service to conduct research on the transmission of PFAS substances in watersheds and aquifers, and $2 million for the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences to continue their work on PFAS and other contaminants of concern.\n\nRemoving Lead from Drinking Water: The bill includes $30.5 million for the Environmental Protection Agency\u2019s (EPA) lead testing in schools program, $25 million for its efforts to reduce lead in drinking water, and $7 million to support its work to improve drinking water infrastructure resilience and sustainability.\n\nStrengthening Michigan\u2019s Economy and Infrastructure\n\nContinued Investment in Bipartisan Infrastructure Law: The bill includes $62.9 billion for the Federal Highway Administration. Part of this funding will meet the bipartisan infrastructure law\u2019s obligations for federal-aid highway programs and the remaining funding will be used to reduce the backlog of structurally deficient bridges.\n\nCHIPS and Science Act: The bill includes $1.8 billion in new funding to implement the bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act. Peters helped author and pass the bill, which includes a provision he and Senator Debbie Stabenow (MI) secured to boost the auto sector\u2019s manufacturing of semiconductor chips.\n\nSupporting Michigan Manufacturing: Peters helped secure $188 million for Manufacturing Extension Partnerships (MEPs) like Michigan\u2019s Manufacturing Technology Center. MEPs like the Center provide technical assistance to small and medium-sized manufacturers on business operations, advanced technologies, workforce and skills development, cybersecurity and more. Over the past year, Michigan\u2019s MEP has created over $78 million in new sales, generated $46 million in cost savings, and created and retained over 4,000 Michigan jobs.\n\nThe bill also includes Peters\u2019 bipartisan Manufacturing.gov Act, which would establish a single coordinated online portal to assist manufacturers in accessing available federal programs, grants and services. This will help small and medium-sized Michigan manufacturers access programs and information to help them grow their business, accelerate technology improvements, and bolster their workforce.\n\nWorkforce Training And Development: The bill includes $2.9 billion for Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act State grants. It also provides $285 million for Registered Apprenticeships. This investment in workforce development activities is expected to increase employment, retention, earnings and occupational skill attainment.\n\nCommunity Development Financial Institutions (CDFI) Fund: The bill provides $324 million for the CDFI Fund to promote economic and community development in low-income communities, an increase of $29 million over fiscal year 2022. These funds support a variety of projects in low-income and underserved communities from proposals that bring grocery stores to communities with no healthy food alternatives to investments in low-income housing. Peters has long supported CDFIs and their impact in local communities and is a member of the bipartisan CDFI Caucus.\n\nEmployee Stock Ownership Plans: The bill includes the bipartisan Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs) Fairness Act, which Peters served as a cosponsor on and would allow many small businesses to offer ESOPs to their employees.\n\nInvesting in Our National Defense & Security and Supporting Servicemembers & Veterans\n\nInvesting in Michigan\u2019s Defense: Peters secured $16 million for Camp Grayling and $23 million for Northern Strike. Earlier this year, Peters welcomed U.S. Army Secretary Christine Wormuth to Camp Grayling and U.S. Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall to Alpena\u2019s Combat Readiness Training Center \u2013 key parts of the National All-Domain Warfighting Center. While there, Peters, Secretary Wormuth, and Secretary Kendall viewed the current operational capabilities of the bases, observed an annual joint training exercise hosted by the Michigan National Guard \u2013 Exercise Northern Strike \u2013 and discussed how Michigan\u2019s military facilities are critical to our nation\u2019s defense.\n\nPay Raise for Troops: The bill fully funds a 4.6 percent pay raise for our troops, which Peters helped authorize during his support of the National Defense Authorization Act.\n\nSupporting Our Veterans: The bill includes $5 billion for the Cost of War Toxic Exposures Fund, which provides additional funding to implement the landmark PACT Act that expands eligibility for health care services and benefits to veterans with conditions related to toxic exposure during their service. Following the passage of the PACT Act, Peters held events across Michigan to raise awareness about these new benefits for veterans and their families.\n\nSafeguarding Houses of Worship: Peters secured $305 million for the Nonprofit Security Grant Program for houses of worship and other nonprofit organizations that want to secure their facilities against potential attacks. Grants can be used to harden facilities, promote emergency preparedness training, and strengthen security coordination between communities, emergency responders and state and local government agencies. In 2022, $8.4 million in grant funding was awarded to nonprofits and faith-based organizations across Michigan. Peters joined his colleagues in calling for the program to receive robust funding last week.\n\nSupport for Ukraine: The bill includes $44.9 billion in emergency assistance to Ukraine, including for equipment, security assistance, and other humanitarian and economic assistance.\n\nProtecting Against Threats Posed by Unmanned Aircraft Systems: The legislation includes a short-term extension of authorities for the Department of Homeland Security and the Department of Justice to counter threats posed by unmanned aircraft systems, commonly known as drones. Peters helped secure this extension and will continue pushinghis bipartisan legislation to expand these authorities and provide increased resources to federal agencies who are charged with protecting the public from this evolving threat.\n\nIdentifying Vulnerabilities in Medical Supply Chains: Peters helped secure a provision, based onhis bipartisan bill, that will help increase visibility into our medical supply chain and provide the Food and Drug Administration with a clearer picture of foreign-made medical products. The provision builds off of findings from Peters\u2019 2019 report, A Price Too High: Cost, Supply, and Security Threats to Affordable Prescription Drugs, that identified vulnerabilities in our nation\u2019s medical supply chain and provided recommendations to address growing shortages of critical drugs and national security concerns related to our nation\u2019s dependence on foreign sources for these products.\n\nOther Priorities Supported by Peters\n\nEnsuring a Fair and Accurate Census: The package includes $1.4 billion in funding that Peters helped secure for the U.S. Census Bureau to prepare for the 2030 Census. Robust and steady funding for census operations will help ensure that every community is counted. The legislation also includes a provision that Peters secured to push the Bureau to expand programs that help address 2020 Census undercounts \u2013 such as those in Detroit. The Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, which Peters chairs, is responsible for conducting oversight of the U.S. Census Bureau. Peters convened a hearing in downtown Detroit on the 2020 Census and its impacts on local communities.\n\nPROSWIFT Act: The bill includes $1.75 million for Space Weather Research to Operations, including the development of a space weather testbed, as part of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's (NOAA) implementation of Peters\u2019 bill, the Promoting Research and Observations of Space Weather to Improve the Forecasting of Tomorrow (PROSWIFT) Act.\n\nElectoral Count Reform: The bill includes the Electoral Count Reform and Presidential Transition Improvement Act, legislation that Peters cosponsored. The legislation would take several steps to modernize the Electoral Count Act of 1887, including by clarifying the role of the Vice President and raising the threshold to lodge an objection to a state\u2019s electors \u2013 which would help safeguard our democracy and prevent another January 6th type effort to overturn the election results.\n\nThe bill also includes funding secured by Peters for high-impact public local projects in Michigan that can benefit from federal assistance, including to improve public safety, upgrade and build more resilient infrastructure and strengthen skills training programs. For a full list of projects Peters supported that were included in the bill, click here.\n\nRebuilding Our Roads, Transportation and Community Infrastructure\n\nMound Road/Detroit Arsenal Connector Project: The Mound Road/Detroit Arsenal Connector Project is located on 5 miles of the 8-lane Mound Road Industrial Corridor in the Cities of Warren and Sterling Heights. The $2.5 million in federal funds would be used for planning and final design of the project \u2013 which will strengthen a corridor that\u2019s home to the Detroit Arsenal, GM Tech Center, BAE, GDLS, as well as Stellantis and Ford plants up and down the corridor and a massive supply base and supporting industry.\n\nBrown, Giddings, Silverbell Roads \u2013 Orion Township Industrial Corridor: The Road Commission for Oakland County will receive $1 million in funding to help rehabilitate, reconstruct, and resurface Brown Road from Jamm Road to Giddings Road; Giddings Road from Brown Road to Silverbell Road; and Silverbell Road from Giddings Road to M-24. This project will complement the work being done at General Motor\u2019s Orion plant in the area, which is converting for the production of full-size electric vehicle pickups.\n\nGerald Ford International Airport: Gerald R. Ford International Airport in Grand Rapids will receive $5 million towards the design and eventual replacement of its Air Traffic Control Tower. This will improve safety, efficiency, and capacity at Michigan\u2019s second-largest airport.\n\nJoe Louis Greenway: The City of Detroit will receive $1.38 million towards the Joe Louis Greenway West Chicago Connector, which will significantly expand the region\u2019s bicycle and pedestrian connectivity from Belle Isle to Island Park, across the Detroit River to Windsor, Ontario and to existing and future trails stretching across the state.\n\nBay County Health and Human Services Complex: Bay County will receive $2 million to support the development of a new community-based health center that will bolster health and human services through integrated efforts.\n\nBuilding More Resilient and Sustainable Water Infrastructure\n\nMidland County Flood Plain Reconnection and Enhancement Project: The County of Midland will receive $55,000 to help Midland improve stormwater drainage and allow stormwater to flow into formerly disconnected floodplains. Doing so would not only help the county prepare against future flooding \u2013 but could also help it continue to recover after the 2020 dam failure that resulted in catastrophic flooding and property damage.\n\nMarquette County's K.I. Sawyer Clean and Safe Water Initiative: $1.5 million in funding would be used to assist Marquette County in properly managing and disposing of approximately two million gallons of PFAS-contaminated wastewater, which is in the area after Air Force\u2019s previous use. Proper management and disposal of the contaminated sludge will allow additional capacity of the treatment plant which will support planned business expansions and additional jobs.\n\nCity of Benton Harbor Water System Improvements: $800,000 in funding would be used to make necessary improvements to the City of Benton Harbor water system, especially after elevated levels of lead were detected in the water system.\n\nMichigan Combined Sewer Overflows: The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers would receive $6 million for a project in Lansing, Michigan. The funding would be used to facilitate separation of four blocks of combined sewers along two streets in downtown Lansing, including replacement of other underground facilities and the road surface above the sewers.\n\nOscoda Charter Township for Water Distribution System for Potable Water: Oscoda Township will receive $3 million in funding to provide safe, potable water/sewers/roadways for residential, commercial, industrial, and public use areas throughout Oscoda Charter Township. This project will help remediate the impacts that PFAS contamination has had in the Oscoda area \u2013 including for residents around the former Wurtsmith Air Force base.\n\nCity of Hamtramck Water System Improvements: The bill includes $3.4 million in funding that will be used to support the City of Hamtramck in replacing lead service lines in the city.\n\nCity of Midland Sylvan Pump Station Detention Basin Project: The bill includes $1 million in funding to support the City of Midland\u2019s planned Sylvan Pump Station Detention Basin project, which will benefit a sizable number of residents.\n\nCriminal Justice and Building Trust Between Communities & Law Enforcement\n\nClinton Township Police Social Worker: The bill includes $675,000 to supplement Clinton Township\u2019s existing police department with a social worker, who would offer assistance and expertise when the police are called upon to assist in mental health matters.\n\nDetroit Police Department Body Worn Cameras: The bill includes $1 million in funding that will support the purchase of new body worn cameras (BWCs) for the Detroit Police Department, replacing current BWCs with new devices that have updated camera equipment, storage capacity and global positioning systems.\n\nNorthern Michigan Law Enforcement Training Group Capital Improvement Plan: The bill includes $1 million in funding to support the Northern Michigan Law Enforcement Training Group\u2019s Capital Improvement Plan.\n\nExpanding Opportunities for Education, Skills Training, and Workforce Development\n\nGRCC Center for Automation: The $998,000 in funding would be used to create a state-of-the-art, fully automated training laboratory at Grand Rapids Community College (GRCC). The lab will serve as a training hub for students pursuing careers in the high-demand fields of advanced manufacturing and automation and will allow for upskilling for those already working in the field who need advanced credentials for promotion. This builds on GRCC\u2019s extensive workforce training programs and is geared towards the future of manufacturing in Michigan.\n\nNorth Central College: North Central College will receive $2 million for the Career and Technical Education Enhancement (CATEE) Complex to scale the school\u2019s Nursing, Allied Health, and Skilled Trades programs.\n\nSt. Clair County Community College: St. Clair County Community College will receive $955,000 for the acquisition of interactive equipment which students use to engage in STEM learning at the Challenger Learning Center.\n\nWashtenaw Community College: Washtenaw Community College will receive $2.5 million to support the development of the Electric Battery Technician & Electric Charging Station Maintenance Curriculum/Lab Project. This skills training program will address workforce needs in the movement to electrification.\n\nWayne-Westland Community Schools District: Wayne-Westland Community Schools District will receive $3.5 million to renovate and repurpose a vacant school building, Marshall Upper Elementary School, into a recreation and community center that will provide early childhood learning, STEM programming, senior services and other community and family services for residents.\n\nWayne County Community College: Wayne County Community College will receive $330,000 to support the creation of a mobility certification program focused on Automotive Electrification and Testing.\n\nMott Community College: Mott Community College will receive $650,000 in funding to support the purchase of equipment to improve educational opportunities for in-demand jobs.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-and-portman-bipartisan-legislation-to-help-at-risk-communities-invest-in-disaster-mitigation-projects-signed-into-law", "Peters and Portman Bipartisan Legislation to Help At-Risk Communities Invest in Disaster Mitigation Projects Signed into Law", "2022-12-21", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Bipartisan legislation authored by U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI) and Rob Portman (R-OH), Chairman and Ranking Member of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, to make permanent the Federal Emergency Management Agency\u2019s (FEMA) National Risk Index (NRI) \u2013 an online tool that utilizes data to identify communities that are most vulnerable to natural disasters \u2013 has been signed into law. The law will require FEMA to use data from the NRI to establish community disaster resilience zones (CDRZs) to designate the communities across the nation that are most in need of mitigation projects and help them access federal funding and support to plan for mitigation and resilience projects. As extreme weather events continue to cause billions of dollars in damages that taxpayers must cover, the senators\u2019 law will help at-risk communities make important investments to safeguard against natural disasters.\n\n\u201cIdentifying areas in Michigan and across the country that are most affected by natural disasters will help drive public and private investment toward these communities so they can fund infrastructure projects that can withstand floods and severe storms,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cThis new law will help make sure that data and information that is gathered by FEMA is being used to ensure communities that are most vulnerable to extreme weather events receive assistance.\u201d\n\n\u201cI\u2019m proud this bipartisan legislation has been signed into law because not every community in Ohio has the same vulnerabilities or experiences the same level of catastrophic outcomes even when impacted by the same disaster,\u201d said Senator Portman. \u201cWhile natural disasters can be highly unpredictable, FEMA has risk index tools to help us know where we should prioritize our disaster mitigation funding. Research has found that for every dollar invested into mitigation, communities are saved six dollars due to reduced future losses. This law will help Ohio and communities across the country prioritize and focus these mitigation programs to ensure we maximize the safety and well-being of anyone affected by disasters.\u201d\n\nSmall, impoverished, rural and historically disadvantaged communities continue to face severe consequences from natural disasters, including loss of life and significant financial damage. Studies have shown that resilience and mitigation spending saves taxpayers an average of $6 for every $1 invested. By making permanent and utilizing data from the NRI \u2013 which factors in expected annual losses, social vulnerability and community resilience \u2013 the senators\u2019 legislation would help allocate resources so at-risk communities can develop FEMA-approved hazard mitigation projects.\n\nThe Community Disaster Resilience Zones Act amends the Stafford Act to make permanent the National Risk Index and utilize its data to identify and designate community disaster resilience zone communities that are the most at risk to natural hazards. This will allow FEMA to identify what communities are most in need of assistance for mitigation projects. Community disaster resilience zone designations will be made public so other federal departments and stakeholders interested in protecting communities from natural disasters can understand what areas are most in need of investments. The law requires FEMA to create an optional review process for potential mitigation projects within a community disaster resilience zone to help direct private investors to approved, meaningful mitigation projects. The law allows the President to provide community disaster resilience zones with increased federal resources to upgrade their infrastructure to withstand natural disasters.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-stabenow-announce-184500-in-federal-support-for-colon-township-and-hart-area-fire-departments", "Peters, Stabenow Announce $184,500 in Federal Support for Colon Township and Hart Area Fire Departments", "2022-12-21", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C - U.S. Senators Gary Peters (MI) and Debbie Stabenow (MI) today announced that Colon Township and the Hart Area Fire Department will receive $184,500 from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to improve operations and safety. The funding comes from the Federal Emergency Management Agency\u2019s (FEMA) Assistance to Firefighters Grants (AFG) program.\n\nColon Township will receive $132,500 to replace their self-contained breathing apparatuses. The Hart Area Fire Department will receive $52,000 to purchase new radios.\n\n\u201cIt\u2019s critical that our local fire departments have the resources they need to respond to emergencies safely and effectively,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cThese grants will ensure that the fire departments in Colon Township and Hart are able to best serve their communities.\u201d\n\n\u201cOur firefighters put their lives on the line to protect our families, homes, and communities,\u201d said Senator Stabenow. \u201cThese new resources will help keep the public safe and give our first responders the equipment they need to do their jobs more safely and effectively.\u201d\n\n\u201cIt\u2019s long overdue that we get new self-contained breathing apparatuses. The health and safety of our staff is a top priority. This new equipment will help our firefighters protect the community more safely,\u201d said Matt Overholt, Colon Township Fire Chief.\n\n\u201cCommunication is so important during times of emergency. These new radios will allow our staff to answer a call for help more quickly and efficiently,\u201d said Mark Haynor, Hart Fire Chief.\n\nMore information about these grants can be found at: https://www.fema.gov/grants/preparedness/firefighters.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-stabenow-announce-230400-in-federal-support-for-new-baltimore-fire-department", "Peters, Stabenow Announce $230,400 in Federal Support for New Baltimore Fire Department", "2022-12-21", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C - U.S. Senators Gary Peters (MI) and Debbie Stabenow (MI) today announced that the New Baltimore Fire Department will receive $230,452 from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to replace their self-contained breathing apparatuses. The funding comes from the Federal Emergency Management Agency\u2019s (FEMA) Assistance to Firefighters Grants (AFG) program.\n\n\u201cFirefighters put their lives on the line to protect our communities, and we need to make sure they have the resources necessary to do so safely and effectively,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cThis funding will help the fire department in New Baltimore continue to best serve their communities.\u201d\n\n\u201cOur firefighters put their lives on the line to protect our families, homes, and communities,\u201d said Senator Stabenow. \u201cThese new resources will help keep the public safe and give our first responders the equipment they need to do their jobs more safely and effectively.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis could not have come at a better time. Many of our self-contained breathing apparatus need to be replaced. The last thing you want is to go into a burning building and realize your equipment has failed. I want to thank Senators Stabenow and Peters for their support,\u201d said Jeff Stellmen, New Baltimore Fire Chief.\n\nMore information about these grants can be found at: https://www.fema.gov/grants/preparedness/firefighters.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-stabenow-announce-senate-passage-of-bipartisan-legislation-to-support-motorcities-national-heritage-area", "Peters, Stabenow Announce Senate Passage of Bipartisan Legislation to Support MotorCities National Heritage Area", "2022-12-21", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 U.S. Senators Gary Peters (MI) and Debbie Stabenow (MI) announced that their bipartisan bill, the National Heritage Area Act, unanimously passed the U.S. Senate. The bill would support National Heritage Areas across the country including Michigan\u2019s MotorCities National Heritage Area in Southeast Michigan.\n\nThe National Heritage Area Act reauthorizes MotorCities and the 44 other National Heritage Areas set to expire by 2024 for another 15 years, ensuring long-term security for these sites and the communities they benefit. The bill also sets up a much needed framework for the designation and management of new and existing National Heritage Areas.\n\n\u201cNational Heritage Areas allow us to commemorate our nation\u2019s history and help generate further economic development in Michigan and regions across the country. We\u2019re proud in Michigan to be home to the MotorCities National Heritage Area, which highlights how our automotive heritage \u2013 and the workers who built automobiles across generations \u2013 transformed society,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cOur bill ensures we can preserve the story of how Michigan put America on wheels, built a world-class workforce that has transcended generations and upheld our reputation as a leader in mobility\u2014while boosting our economy.\u201d\n\n\u201cNational Heritage Areas not only commemorate our nation\u2019s history, but also create jobs and boost tourism for communities across the country,\u201d said Senator Stabenow. \u201cThis legislation ensures that Michigan\u2019s own MotorCities National Heritage Area can continue to preserve and share our rich automotive history for years to come.\u201d\n\nDesignated by Congress in 1998, the MotorCities National Heritage Area Partnership is a nonprofit corporation affiliated with the National Park Service. The Partnership\u2019s mission is to preserve and promote the region\u2019s automotive and labor heritage. Every year, MotorCities attracts thousands of visitors and helps generate over $489 million in economic support to Michigan communities, supporting 5,343 jobs.\n\nPeters and Stabenow have been champions for funding for MotorCities, successfully authoring and passing the Preserving the MotorCities Heritage Act in 2019.\n\nU.S. Senators Roy Blunt (R-MO), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Ed Markey (D-MA), Roger Wicker (R-MS), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), and Rob Portman (R-OH) are also co-sponsors of the National Heritage Area Act. The National Heritage Area Act is supported by the Alliance of National Heritage Areas and the National Parks Conservation Association (NPCA).\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/following-peters-calls-annual-spending-bill-includes-robust-funding-to-help-protect-houses-of-worship-from-threats", "Following Peters\u2019 Calls, Annual Spending Bill Includes Robust Funding to Help Protect Houses of Worship from Threats", "2022-12-20", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Following calls from U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, the Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) will receive $305 million in the upcoming government spending bill to meet the needs of houses of worship and other nonprofit organizations that want to secure their facilities against potential terrorist attacks. This is a significant increase in funding for the NSGP over the previous year. The program provides grants to help at-risk nonprofits plan for and safeguard their facilities against potential attacks. Grants can be used to harden facilities, promote emergency preparedness training, and strengthen security coordination between communities, emergency responders and state and local government agencies. In 2022, $8.4 million in grant funding was awarded to nonprofits and faith-based organizations across Michigan. Peters joined his colleagues in calling for the program to receive robust funding last week.\n\n\u201cThe Nonprofit Security Grant Program is essential to helping houses of worship protect themselves in the face of increasing threats that are all too often inspired by hate,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cThat is why I have long fought to increase funding for this vital program so religious institutions and other nonprofits can improve their security, provide a safe haven for their communities, and ensure that Americans do not have to fear for their safety where they live, work, or practice their faith.\u201d\n\nData collected by organizations such as the Anti-Defamation League and Center for Strategic and International Studies show our nation faces the highest level of extremist violence based on race and religion in decades. This includes deadly attacks at the Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston and the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh. Funding from the NSGP can be used by religious and other non-profit institutions for securing facilities, personnel training, and other activities to help protect against violent attacks.\n\nIn his role on the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, Senator Peters has long fought to help protect faith-based and nonprofit institutions that are under threat from terror attacks. Peters convened two hearings to examine needed actions to address the rise of white supremacist, faith-based and anti-government violence. Last Congress, Peters led bipartisan legislation, which was signed into law, to authorize additional funding for the in-demand program, and has led bipartisan calls for the program to get robust funding.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-and-dingell-bipartisan-bill-to-protect-firefighters-from-hazardous-pfas-chemicals-signed-into-law", "Peters & Dingell Bipartisan Bill to Protect Firefighters from Hazardous PFAS Chemicals Signed into Law", "2022-12-20", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 Legislation led by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, and U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell (D-MI-12) to help protect the health and safety of firefighters and emergency responders from PFAS exposure has been signed into law. The Protecting Firefighters from Adverse Substances (PFAS) Act directs federal agencies to develop best practices, training, and educational programs to reduce, limit and prevent exposure to PFAS, also known as \u2018forever chemicals\u2019 because they do not naturally break down. The bill would also require the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to develop educational resources for firefighters on alternative foams and personal protective equipment that do not contain PFAS.\n\n\u201cWe need to protect firefighters and first responders from harmful PFAS substances in the line of duty,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cThis new law will help the federal government ensure that our heroes are safe from these forever chemicals that continue to pose a threat to the health and safety of emergency responders in Michigan and across the country.\u201d\n\n\u201cForever chemicals are an urgent public health threat, especially to our firefighters who are frequently exposed to harmful PFAS in firefighting foams and personal protective equipment as they work to keep us safe,\u201d said Congresswoman Dingell. \u201cI thank Senator Peters for his partnership in getting the PFAS Act over the finish line and President Biden for signing this into law to protect our frontline emergency responders from the dangerous effects of forever chemicals and minimize the spread of PFAS in our environment and communities.\"\n\nEmergency response teams are frequently exposed to harmful per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in firefighting foams and personal protective equipment as they work to keep communities safe. PFAS substances have been linked to a number of health problems, including certain cancers.\n\nThe Protecting Firefighters from Adverse Substances (PFAS) Act will direct the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) \u2013 in consultation with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the U.S. Fire Administration, and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health \u2013 to develop educational resources to help protect firefighters, emergency response personnel, and the communities they serve from PFAS exposure. This will include information for federal, state, and local firefighters on training and best practices to prevent and reduce exposure to PFAS from firefighting foams and protective gear, as well as resources that identify alternatives for firefighting tools and equipment that do not contain PFAS.\n\nThe legislation builds on Peters\u2019 longstanding efforts to address PFAS contamination. He convened a field hearing in East Lansing with senior federal officials and local stakeholders to examine efforts to clean up PFAS contamination in Michigan. Peters recently introduced bipartisan legislation to strengthen and expand federal research on PFAS contamination. Last year, Peters convened a hearing to examine how servicemembers, their families and communities in Michigan and across the country have been harmed by exposure to toxic PFAS substances connected to military sites. In September 2018, Peters helped convene the first hearing on PFAS contamination in the Senate, assessing the federal response to contamination and remediation. He then convened a field summit in Grand Rapids in November 2018 to shine a light on how the local, state and federal governments are coordinating their response to PFAS.\n\nBelow are statements in support of the PFAS Act\n\n\u201cFirefighters are exposed to harmful PFAS chemicals when fighting fires, which could result in disastrous health consequences,\u201d said Kevin Sehlmeyer, State of Michigan Fire Marshal. \u201cBy leading this legislation, Senator Peters continues to show his clear commitment to protecting Michigan\u2019s firefighters from PFAS exposure by providing resources to ensure these brave heroes, who risk their lives to keep our communities safe, are not unnecessarily put at risk in the line of duty.\u201d\n\n\u201cI\u2019m grateful to Senator Peters for leading this legislation that will protect Michigan\u2019s firefighters from exposure to toxic PFAS chemicals \u2013 which can lead to serious health problems including cancer,\u201d said Matthew Sahr, President of the Michigan Professional Firefighters Union. \u201cThis bipartisan bill shows Senator Peters\u2019 strong commitment to safeguarding and supporting firefighters across our state.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis critical legislation will help protect the health and safety of firefighters and other rescue personnel as they continue to serve in communities across Michigan,\u201d said Fred Timpner, Executive Director of the Michigan Association of Fire Fighters. \u201cThe Michigan Association of Fire Fighters applauds Senator Peters\u2019 continued efforts to protect firefighters in the line of duty \u2013 including by limiting their exposure to harmful PFAS substances.\u201d\n\n\u201cFire fighters and emergency medical responders have dedicated their lives to protecting others. Unfortunately, these brave men and women are exposed to dangerous \u2018forever chemicals\u2019 while serving their communities, subjecting them to higher risks of cancer and other serious health effects,\u201d said Edward A. Kelly, General President of the International Association of Fire Fighters. \u201cThe IAFF supports measures to curtail the use of these chemicals and commends Senator Peters for his continuous efforts to help protect fire fighters, emergency medical responders, and the communities they serve from unnecessary PFAS exposure.\"\n\n\u201cI thank Congress for passing this historic legislation. The life of a firefighter is inherently dangerous while also facing a higher risk of cancer than the general population. This legislation will provide important resources to help fire chiefs reduce the risk of their personnel\u2019s exposure to PFAS,\u201d said Chief Donna Black, the President and Board Chair of the International Association of Fire Chiefs. \u201cI thank Chairman Peters and all of this bill\u2019s supporters for their tireless work to secure its final passage.\u201d\n\n\u201cI\u2019d like to thank Senator Peters for his leadership on the PFAS Act. Firefighters have a greater risk of contracting and dying from cancer than the general public as a result of duty-related exposures,\u201d said Steve Hirsch, Chairman of the National Volunteer Fire Council. \u201cEnactment of this important legislation will lead to improved health and safety outcomes for firefighter, EMS, and rescue personnel.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-bipartisan-legislation-signed-into-law-to-reduce-the-spread-of-toxic-pfas-at-commercial-airports", "Peters Bipartisan Legislation Signed into Law to Reduce the Spread of Toxic PFAS at Commercial Airports", "2022-12-20", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u00ad\u00ad\u2013 The President has signed into law bipartisan legislation authored by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) to reduce the spread of toxic per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination at commercial airports.\n\nThe Preventing PFAS Runoff at Airports Act \u2013 which recently passed the U.S. Senate and U.S. House of Representatives \u2013 will deploy more existing Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) funding for commercial airports to purchase devices necessary to test their firefighting equipment without discharging toxic PFAS chemicals. This legislation will encourage commercial airports to purchase the relatively low-cost devices \u2013 also referred to as an input-based testing system \u2013 to help limit and prevent exposure to PFAS, which are known as \u201cforever chemicals\u201d because they do not naturally break down. It also directs the FAA to identify options for reimbursing airports in Michigan and elsewhere that already acquired the devices without federal funding.\n\n\u201cThis new law will make testing equipment that prevents the spread of PFAS contamination more affordable for airports which will not only protect our environment but also families, first responders, and the Great Lakes from these toxic chemicals,\u201d said Senator Peters, a member of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee. \u201cI\u2019m pleased this legislation is law because it is commonsense, fiscally responsible and will help commercial airports purchase the necessary testing equipment to reduce PFAS contamination.\u201d\n\n\u201cCommercial airports should have the necessary equipment to test their firefighting equipment in a manner that does not expose firefighters or the surrounding communities to toxic PFAS foams,\u201d said Senator Moran. \u201cThis law will help promote the health and wellness of firefighters and aviation employees at commercial airports, as well as protect the communities that surround them.\u201d\n\nThe FAA has required commercial airports nationwide to use firefighting foam that contains toxic PFAS chemicals. For years, airports were required to discharge this foam as part of routine, federally-mandated testing of their firefighting equipment. This put firefighters, the environment, and the public at risk from exposure to toxic PFAS chemicals.\n\nThe Preventing PFAS Runoff at Airports Act \u2013 which Peters introduced earlier this year with U.S. Senators Jerry Moran (R-KS), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) \u2013 will make more funding from the FAA\u2019s Airport Improvement Program available to commercial airports to purchase devices that avoid discharging PFAS chemicals when testing firefighting equipment. It also directs the FAA to identify options for reimbursing airports in Michigan and elsewhere that already acquired the devices without federal funding.\n\nPeters has led the charge in the Senate to address PFAS contamination. In July, Peters introduced bipartisan legislation to help advance the federal government\u2019s understanding of toxic per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) to better inform plans to effectively address PFAS contamination. As Chairman of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, he held a field hearing in East Lansing to examine federal efforts and coordination with state and local governments to clean up and prevent PFAS contamination. Following that he introduced bipartisan legislation to improve communication and coordination efforts across every level of government to ensure there is a more comprehensive approach to cleaning up existing sites and preventing future contamination. Previously, he convened a hearing last December examining Department of Defense failures to protect servicemembers, military families and Michigan communities from PFAS exposure. Peters bill to help protect firefighters and emergency responders from PFAS exposure in the line of duty also passed the Senate.\n\nLast year, Peters released a report by the Government Accountability Office (GAO) that shows the federal government needs to take further action to clean up and prevent contamination from PFAS and helped pass the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which invests in clean drinking water and includes dedicated funding to address PFAS contamination. He supported or led provisions in the 2019 national defense bill banning the Department of Defense from purchasing firefighting foams containing PFAS. The bill also immediately prohibited the use of firefighting foams containing PFAS in military training exercises, and enhanced state cooperation with the Department of Defense regarding clean-up due to PFAS contamination stemming from military-related activities. He authored and enacted into law in 2018 a provision allowing airports to discontinue the use of firefighting foams with PFAS. In September 2018, Peters helped convene the first hearing on PFAS contamination in the Senate, assessing the federal response to contamination and remediation. He then convened a field summit in Grand Rapids in November 2018 to shine a light on how the local, state and federal governments are coordinating their response to PFAS.\n\nBelow are statements in support of Peters\u2019 bipartisan legislation:\n\n\u201cAt Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport, our fire department utilizes an input-based testing system,\u201d said Chad Newton, CEO, Wayne County Airport Authority. \u201cIt is portable, which means we can test multiple trucks, saving money and reducing the environmental impact. If the system was funded at 100-percent federal share, as Senator Peters is considering in his legislation, that would help airports throughout Michigan and the country. We all want to ensure we have the best firefighting equipment, at the same time preventing harmful chemicals from reaching our water systems. This proposed bill would also help the smaller departments that cannot afford this technology.\u201d\n\n\u201cToxic PFAS contamination is a major threat in communities across Michigan, and this legislation will help reduce exposure to PFAS at commercial airports, one of the key sources of contamination,\u201d said Bentley Johnson, Federal Government Affairs Director for the Michigan League of Conservation Voters. \u201cWe commend Sen. Peters and sponsors of this legislation for taking proactive steps to protect our health and begin to start tackling this water contamination crisis.\u201d\n\n\u201cCherry Capital Airport applauds Senator Peters\u2019 bipartisan efforts to secure funding for input-based testing equipment for Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting vehicles. This equipment allows airports to meet their regulatory vehicle testing requirements without discharging firefighting foam containing PFAS. This step in a road of many brings the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) closer to the goal of eliminating PFAS chemicals from impacting our soil and water,\u201d said Kevin Klein, CEO of the Northwest Regional Airport Authority and Director of the Cherry Capital Airport. \u201cCherry Capital Airport looks forward to the day that the FAA accepts and implements a new firefighting foam that will protect the flying public.\u201d\n\n\u201cMAAE supports this bill which will allow airports to acquire input-based testing equipment through the AIP, so they can perform required ARFF vehicle testing without introducing AFFF into the environment,\u201d said Miles Weaver, President of the Michigan Association of Airport Executives and Airport Operations Manager at Battle Creek Executive Airport at Kellogg Field. \u201cMAAE appreciates Senator Peters\u2019 leadership to assist airports not only in Michigan but nationwide in addressing this aspect of the PFAS issue.\u201d\n\n\u201cEnvironmental stewardship is a top priority for airport executives, and AAAE appreciates this bipartisan effort to enhance the federal government\u2019s support for airports to safely test aqueous film forming foam (AFFF),\u201d said American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE) President & CEO Todd Hauptli. \u201cWhile airports eagerly await federal approval of PFAS-free foam and significant long-term federal support to transition from FAA-mandated AFFF, this legislation is a positive step forward that merits support. We are grateful to Senator Peters and his colleagues for continued leadership on this important issue.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe appreciate Senators Peters and Moran working together to help airports acquire additional firefighting foam testing carts. The 2018 FAA reauthorization law directed the FAA to certify a fluorine-free alternative firefighting foam for airports to use, and we look forward to that work concluding in a timely manner and to the establishment of a national transition plan for fluorine-free foams,\u201d said Annie Russo, Chief Political and Congressional Strategy Officer at Airports Council International \u2013 North America. \u201cIn the meantime, airports welcome this assistance in getting new carts to capture firefighting foam discharged during FAA-mandated certification tests.\u201d\n\n\u201cIt is crucial that airports have the resources necessary to extinguish fires safely and minimize the environmental impact of fighting these fires. The IAFC thanks Senator Peters for introducing this legislation, which will greatly assist airports in meeting both needs,\u201d said Chief Kenneth Stuebing, President and Board Chair of the International Association of Fire Chiefs.\n\n\u201cFire fighters dedicate their lives to protecting others. While saving others and making their communities better places to live, these brave men and women continue to experience exposures to toxic PFAS-laden firefighting foams subjecting them to higher risks of cancer and other serious health effects,\u201d said Edward A. Kelly, General President of the International Association of Fire Fighters. \u201cThis is unacceptable. The IAFF supports Senators Peters\u2019 legislation providing for foam containment devices to be installed on aircraft firefighting vehicles, and on behalf of our 326,000 members, I commend him for his continuous efforts to help protect fire fighters and the communities they serve from unnecessary PFAS exposure.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe applaud Senator Peters for finding creative solutions to limit the use of PFAS containing fire-fighting foam at airports here in the Great Lakes region through more affordable access to emergency testing equipment,\u201d said Jennifer Hill, Associate Director of the Great Lakes Regional Center of National Wildlife Federation. \u201cThe use of AFFF here in Michigan has resulted in PFAS contamination consumption advisories for deer, fish, and wildlife, both in local communities and the Great Lakes. PFAS contamination is impacting the water resources, fish and wildlife we value as Michiganders \u2013 and has real consequences for the Great Lakes outdoor economy if we don\u2019t work together, alongside impacted communities, to address its sources.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-joins-administrator-criswell-at-fema-hq-to-announce-new-funding-opportunity-for-his-storm-act-program", "Peters Joins Administrator Criswell at FEMA HQ to Announce New Funding Opportunity for His STORM Act Program", "2022-12-20", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, joined Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator Deanne Criswell to announce a new funding opportunity for a program to help states establish low cost revolving loan funds for local governments to carry out mitigation projects that reduce natural disaster risk. Peters authored the Safeguarding Tomorrow through Ongoing Risk Mitigation (STORM) Act, which was signed into law last year, to create this new program. He also secured $500 million in the bipartisan infrastructure law to provide the first funding for the program. Peters joined Criswell at FEMA Headquarters to announce how states and localities can access these funds once the application period opens.\n\n\u201cCoastal erosion and extreme weather events, including floods continue to threaten the lives and livelihoods of communities in Michigan and across the nation. My STORM Act program, and the funding that I secured for it in bipartisan infrastructure law, will provide resources through state funds to local communities so they can invest in disaster-resilient infrastructure like seawalls, breakers, and barriers,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cToday\u2019s announcement paves the way for states to be able access these critical federal funds and I\u2019m grateful to Administrator Criswell and FEMA for getting this important program off the ground so quickly. I\u2019ll also continue working to ensure Michigan communities can access these funds as soon as possible.\u201d\n\n\u201cFEMA remains committed to finding innovative approaches to help communities build resilience in the face of intensifying weather events driven by climate change,\u201d said FEMA Administrator Deanne Criswell. \u201cThe low-interest loans provided by the STORM program will help eligible states and tribes, as well as Puerto Rico and the District of Columbia, finance disaster mitigation projects that will enhance their climate resiliency before disaster strikes. I am grateful to the Chairman Peters for his leadership in creating this critical program, and helping to bring the importance of hazard mitigation to the national forefront.\u201d\n\nSevere storms, extreme flooding, rising water levels and high winds \u2013 exacerbated by climate change \u2013 are causing more destructive and costly natural disasters than ever before. Communities in Michigan and across the country are facing serious flooding, coastal erosion and high water level challenges that have destroyed homes and beaches and have even forced residents to relocate. The program established by his STORM Act, and the funding that Peters secured for it, allows local governments to access critical funds to help mitigate the impact of natural disasters in a more cost-effective way. Studies have shown that resilience and mitigation spending saves taxpayers an average of $6 for every $1 invested.\n\nUnlike existing FEMA grants, these low-interest loans will allow local governments to invest in resiliency and mitigation projects that reduce the effects of rising and high water levels, along with other natural disasters. These loans will reach communities more quickly than FEMA\u2019s traditional grants, and provide local communities with the capital necessary to invest in more resilient infrastructure. Today\u2019s announcement comes after Peters encouraged Criswell and Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas to quickly set up the STORM Act program.\n\nDuring the visit to FEMA Headquarters, Peters also met with FEMA employees from Michigan and FEMA Reservists \u2013 the temporary, on-call and intermittent employees who are essential to the agency\u2019s mission to quickly respond to disasters. The President recently signed into law Peters\u2019 bill to protect these essential employees from losing their full-time employment when they are called up to assist communities with disaster response.\n\nAs Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, Peters has led several efforts to strengthen our federal disaster preparedness and response. He convened a hearing with disaster preparedness and response experts to hear how worsening natural disasters, including flooding, severe storms, and wildfires, continue to threaten communities in Michigan and across the nation. His bill to strengthen federal disaster response for minority, rural, low-income, and disabled communities has also advanced in the Senate.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-statement-on-postal-service-announcement-to-significantly-increase-electric-vehicle-fleet", "Peters Statement on Postal Service Announcement to Significantly Increase Electric Vehicle Fleet", "2022-12-20", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, released the following statement after an announcement today from the United States Postal Service (USPS) saying they will invest in charging infrastructure and deploy over 66,000 electric vehicles by 2028 \u2013 making a majority of new vehicle purchases electric. This announcement comes after Peters helped secure $3 billion in the Inflation Reduction Act to help the Postal Service purchase electric delivery trucks and invest in charging infrastructure:\n\n\u201cToday\u2019s announcement is a significant step to ensuring the Postal Service\u2019s vehicle fleet is safer, more energy efficient and cheaper to operate in the long run. Electric vehicles are the future of the automotive industry and that is why I worked to secure major investments for the Postal Service so they can purchase more electric delivery trucks as they continue to add more vehicles to their fleet. I will continue my efforts to ensure the Postal Service is using funds from the Inflation Reduction Act effectively, push for every part of the postal fleet to be environmentally-friendly and union-made, and ensure this essential institution provides timely service to the American people for generations to come.\u201d\n\nPeters has led other efforts to ensure the Postal Service acquires more electric vehicles. In part due to his urging, the Postal Service previously announced that they intended to expand certain electric vehicle purchase orders to at least forty percent. Peters convened a committee briefing in April with USPS to discuss efforts to modernize the Postal Service\u2019s aging delivery vehicle fleet \u2013 including by acquiring electric vehicles and prioritizing union-made vehicles. Last year, he sent a letter to Postal Service leadership urging them to prioritize the acquisition of electric vehicles to ensure the fleet is sustainable for the Postal Service and for our environment.\n\nPeters has also led other efforts to modernize the Postal Service and protect their nearly 250-year tradition of reliable delivery. His historic, bipartisan legislation to set the Postal Service on a more sustainable financial footing and support the goal of providing long-term reliable service across the country was signed into law. In 2020, Peters championed legislation to secure a $10 billion direct payment to the Postal Service to help recover from pandemic-related losses. He also conducted an investigation into operational changes at the Postal Service in 2020 that resulted in significant delays. Following Peters\u2019 investigation, the Postal Service reversed many of these changes and service has significantly improved.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/president-signs-peters-bipartisan-bill-to-strengthen-federal-disaster-response-by-repealing-outdated-dhs-contracting-requirements", "President Signs Peters Bipartisan Bill to Strengthen Federal Disaster Response by Repealing Outdated DHS Contracting Requirements", "2022-12-20", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Bipartisan legislation authored by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, to repeal a section of the Post-Katrina Emergency Management Reform Act of 2006 that required the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to prohibit the use of subcontracts for more than 65% of the cost of certain emergency response and recovery contracts has been signed into law. The section conflicts with a provision of the 2009 National Defense Authorization Act that imposed a government-wide limitation to prevent excessive subcontracting. Peters\u2019 law, the Repeal of Obsolete DHS Contracting Requirements Act, reinforces the government-wide standard and provides greater clarity to federal contractors and DHS employees who are responsible for managing our nation\u2019s federal disaster response.\n\n\u201cProviding clear guidance to contractors and federal officials responsible for our nation\u2019s disaster relief efforts is essential to helping communities in Michigan and across the nation recover from extreme weather events and other emergencies,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cI am pleased this new law will remove outdated and conflicting subcontracting requirements and significantly bolster FEMA\u2019s ability to serve Americans during their greatest times of need.\u201d\n\nAs Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, Peters has led several efforts to strengthen our federal disaster preparedness and response. Peters secured $500 million in funding as part of the bipartisan infrastructure bill for a program he created to help states establish revolving loan programs for local governments to carry out mitigation projects that reduce the risk of shoreline erosion, extreme flooding, and other natural disasters. Peters also convened a hearing with disaster preparedness and response experts to hear how worsening natural disasters, including flooding, severe storms, and wildfires, continue to threaten lives and livelihoods in Michigan and across the nation. Peters\u2019 bipartisan legislation to protect Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Reservists from losing their full-time employment when they are called up to assist communities with disaster response was signed into law.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/photos-peters-joins-firefighters-and-local-officials-in-dearborn-to-highlight-efforts-to-support-michigan-fire-departments", "PHOTOS: Peters Joins Firefighters and Local Officials in Dearborn to Highlight Efforts to Support Michigan Fire Departments", "2022-12-19", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "DEARBORN, MI \u2013 U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, toured Dearborn Fire Station 2 to discuss the need to pass his bipartisan legislation to renew federal grants programs that are set to expire in the coming years. During the visit, Peters highlighted how the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) and the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) programs provide critical federal resources to Michigan fire stations like Fire Station 2. Peters met with firefighters who have been hired using SAFER grant funding, saw a demonstration using equipment that was purchased with funding from the AFG program, and discussed his legislation to ensure these important federal programs do not expire and leave local fire departments without the resources needed to protect Michigan communities. Peters also discussed a second bill \u2013 which will soon be signed into law \u2013 to protect firefighters from hazardous PFAS chemicals. Peters was joined by Dearborn Mayor Abdullah Hammoud and Dearborn Fire Chief Joseph Murray at the station.\n\n\u201cFirefighters put their lives on the line each and every day to protect our communities \u2013 and they should be able to count on Congress to have their backs as they risk their health and safety,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cThat is why we must work to pass my bipartisan legislation to extend these in demand grant programs that fire stations in Michigan and across the nation depend on to safeguard our communities and improve health and safety outcomes for firefighters and other emergency personnel.\u201d\n\nPeters continued: \u201cI\u2019m also proud that the President will soon my bill into law that will protect these brave first responders from harmful PFAS chemicals that are often found in firefighting foams and equipment. I\u2019ll continue working to support our brave firefighters so they can do their jobs safely and help our communities better prepare for and respond to emergencies.\u201d\n\n\u201cI applaud Senator Peters for his continued leadership on the Fire Grants and Safety Act and the PFAS Act,\u201d said Abdullah Hammoud, Mayor of the City of Dearborn, Michigan. \u201cBoth pieces of legislation will improve the health and safety outcomes for our brave firefighters who have dedicated their lives to protecting others. I am thankful to Senator Peters for his work to support our communities.\u201d\n\n\u201cI\u2019d like to thank Senator Peters for leading efforts to protect firefighters in Dearborn and across the country,\u201d said Joseph Murray, Dearborn Fire Chief. \u201cHis efforts to reauthorize critical federal programs that our Departments rely on and reduce firefighters\u2019 exposure to toxic PFAS chemicals shows his unique understanding of our needs and continued commitment to keeping first responders safe. I am grateful for his service and look forward to continuing to work together in the future.\u201d\n\nDuring the visit, Peters toured the fire station to see how funding from the SAFER and AFG programs has allowed Dearborn firefighters to do their jobs more effectively. Peters saw a safety demonstration of a car accident rescue technique using equipment purchased with AFG funds, and met with firefighters who were hired using SAFER grants. Since 2013, the Dearborn Fire Department has received more than $9 million in grants from both of these federal programs, and has used the funding to hire additional personnel, acquire new vehicles \u2013 including an ambulance \u2013 and purchase new nozzles, saws, and ventilation fans. Last year, they used funding from the AFG program to fund cancer screenings for 120 firefighters. In 2021, Michigan fire departments received from more than $10.8 million from the AFG program, and more than $8 million from the SAFER grant program. The visit highlighted the need to pass Peters\u2019 Fire Grants and Safety Act to reauthorize these critical grant programs that local fire departments use to address staffing needs, purchase equipment, and develop fire training and education programs, and improve emergency medical services.\n\nPeters also his discussed his bipartisan legislation \u2013 that will soon be signed into law \u2013 to help protect the health and safety of firefighters and emergency responders from PFAS exposure. The Protecting Firefighters from Adverse Substances (PFAS) Act directs federal agencies to develop best practices, training, and educational programs to reduce, limit and prevent exposure to PFAS, also known as \u2018forever chemicals\u2019 because they do not naturally break down. The legislation passed the Senate last summer and the House earlier this month.\n\nTo download high-resolution photos from the visit, click on the images below. Images are courtesy of Senator Peters\u2019 office.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-backed-provision-to-provide-security-funding-for-houses-of-worship-passes-senate-as-part-of-national-defense-bill", "Peters-Backed Provision to Provide Security Funding for Houses of Worship Passes Senate as Part of National Defense Bill", "2022-12-16", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "DETROIT, MI \u2013 A provision backed by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, to reauthorize the Department of Homeland Security\u2019s Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) at $360 million has been passed by the Senate as a part of the National Defense Authorization Act. This is a significant increase over the previous authorized funding levels. The program distributes grants to religious institutions and at-risk nonprofits to help them strengthen their security. In 2022, $8.4 million in grant funding was awarded to nonprofits and faith-based organizations across Michigan. Peters has long championed and supported funding increases for the NSGP in the face of rising threats and attacks against religious institutions such as synagogues, churches, mosques and gurdwaras in communities across the country.\n\n\u201cIncreasing attacks and threats against houses of worship in Michigan and across the country, spurred on by hate like white supremacy, anti-Semitism and Islamophobia, emphasize the continued importance of this program that helps faith-based organizations strengthen their physical security,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cWhile this security funding is critical, I will also continue leading efforts to ensure the federal government is better prepared to protect our communities from violent attacks inspired by hate.\u201d\n\nData collected by organizations such as the Anti-Defamation League and Center for Strategic and International Studies show our nation faces the highest level of extremist violence based on race and religion in decades. This includes deadly attacks at the Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston and the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh. Funding from the NSGP can be used by religious and other non-profit institutions for securing facilities, personnel training, and other activities to help protect against violent attacks.\n\nIn his role on the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, Senator Peters has long fought to help protect faith-based and nonprofit institutions that are under threat from terror attacks. Peters convened two hearings to examine needed actions to address the rise of white supremacist, faith-based and anti-government violence. Last Congress, Peters led bipartisan legislation, which was signed into law, to authorize additional funding for the in-demand program, and has led bipartisan calls for the program to get robust funding.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-bipartisan-bill-to-create-leasing-program-for-underutilized-space-held-by-federal-agencies-passes-senate", "Peters Bipartisan Bill to Create Leasing Program for Underutilized Space Held by Federal Agencies Passes Senate", "2022-12-16", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Bipartisan legislation authored by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, to create a program that allows federal agencies to lease underutilized properties with approval from the Administrator of the General Services Administration (GSA), and to use the rent payments to help fund capital projects and facilities maintenance has passed the Senate. Currently, many federal agencies hold underused property that they need and cannot sell \u2013 but could be fully utilized by other public or private entities. Revenue generated by leasing properties would save taxpayer dollars and cut down on government waste.\n\n\u201cAllowing government facilities to lease underutilized properties reduces costs for federal agencies and helps them raise capital to fund maintenance and other important projects,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cThis bipartisan bill will ensure that taxpayer dollars are spent effectively and efficiently and improves government operations.\u201d\n\nFederal agencies routinely hold property that could be used more effectively by other public and private entities. For example, an agency campus could have extra space they cannot sell, but could provide an optimal home for solar panels. Some agencies could also have space and equipment they need part time, but could otherwise be well-suited to university or private partnerships. Peters\u2019 bipartisan legislation would allow federal agencies to explore ways to fully utilize their property, and generate revenue to fund other projects such as long-needed maintenance, revitalization, and other improvements.\n\nThe Saving Money and Accelerating Repairs Through Leasing (SMART Leasing) Act would create a pilot program to allow federal agencies to sublease underutilized non-excess real property and related personal property to any person or entity at fair market value, including another department or agency of the federal government or an entity of a state or local government. The legislation requires the GSA Administrator to certify that any lease will not have a negative impact on the mission of the federal agencies, and that the terms and conditions of the lease protect the interests of the country. The bill limits the number of leases to six per year to determine the impacts of this program through 2024, at which point GSA can advise Congress on whether the program should be extended or expanded. The legislation was modeled on a similar program used by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) \u2013 which has generated millions of dollars in revenue for the agency to use on capital projects and facilities maintenance.\n\nPeters has led several efforts to ensure that taxpayer dollars are spent effectively and efficiently. A law written by Peters, the MEGABYTE Act, has saved taxpayers more than $450 million since 2016. Peters\u2019 bipartisan bill to save taxpayer dollars by updating policies to help federal agencies adopt electric vehicles, which are more energy efficient than traditional gas-powered vehicles was also signed into law last Congress.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-provision-to-strengthen-inspector-general-protections-passes-senate-as-part-of-national-defense-bill", "Peters Provision to Strengthen Inspector General Protections Passes Senate as Part of National Defense Bill", "2022-12-16", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 A provision led by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI). Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, to provide Inspectors General with additional protections has passed the Senate as a part of the National Defense Authorization Act. The provision, which is based on legislation that Peters championed in the Senate, will strengthen independent oversight of the federal government\u2019s effectiveness. The legislation now heads to the President\u2019s desk to be signed into law.\n\n\u201cInspectors General must be given the appropriate tools to work independently to conduct oversight of the federal government and prevent and uncover fraud, waste, and abuse,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cThese long overdue reforms will ensure federal watchdogs can operate without political interference and continue their vital work to save taxpayer dollars and hold government accountable.\u201d\n\nThe bipartisan provision strengthens the 2008 Inspector General Reform Act by requiring any administration to provide a \u201csubstantive rationale, including detailed and case-specific reasons\u201d prior to removing an Inspector General (IG). It also prevents the President from placing an IG on administrative leave during the 30 days preceding removal. To ensure the independence of the IG community, the provision requires acting IGs to be selected from among senior-level employees within the watchdog community. To protect the integrity of investigations and audits during an IG transition, the reforms require that within 15 days of the removal of an IG, the acting IG must report to Congress information regarding work being conducted by the office as of the date on which the IG was removed.\n\nPeters previously convened a hearing with federal inspectors general to discuss the urgent need for these bipartisan reforms and to examine the importance of providing federal watchdogs with protections to strengthen independent oversight of the government\u2019s effectiveness. In addition, these reforms have been endorsed by the Council on Inspectors General on Integrity and Efficiency.\n\nIn his role on the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, Peters has also worked to ensure government is effectively serving the American people. His bipartisan legislation to help identify and mitigate potential conflicts of interest between taxpayer-funded projects and government contractors\u2019 other business opportunities will soon be signed into law. A law written by Peters to reduce duplicative software purchases called the MEGABYTE Act has saved taxpayers more than $450 million since 2016.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/house-passes-peters-bipartisan-bill-to-fight-human-trafficking", "House Passes Peters Bipartisan Bill to Fight Human Trafficking", "2022-12-15", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 The House has passed bipartisan legislation authored by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee that would enhance our nation\u2019s ability to combat human trafficking. The bill, would make permanent and strengthen the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Center for Countering Human Trafficking (CCHT). The legislation passed the Senate in April, and now moves to the President to be signed into law.\n\n\u201cHuman trafficking is horrific and these crimes \u2013 which often go unreported \u2013 must be stopped,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cThis bipartisan bill will provide the Center for Countering Human Trafficking with tools, resources and authorities needed to disrupt human trafficking organizations and ensure our nation can protect victims of these terrible crimes.\u201d\n\nMillions of men, women, and children are trafficked worldwide \u2013 including thousands in the United States. According to DHS, traffickers might use violence, manipulation, false promises of jobs that pay well, or romantic relationships to lure victims into trafficking situations. Based on calls to the National Human Trafficking Hotline, the Polaris Project found that in 2020 there were at least 16,658 human trafficking victims and survivors in the United States. However, the actual number of these crimes is likely much larger because these crimes often go unreported. In addition, the Michigan Human Trafficking Commission says that an extremely high number of human trafficking cases involve the sexual exploitation of a child. Eradicating these heinous crimes will require stronger anti-trafficking policies and ensuring that law enforcement professionals and the public are able to recognize indicators of human trafficking.\n\nThe Countering Human Trafficking Act will make permanent the CCHT, which oversees DHS\u2019s efforts to combat human trafficking and the importation of products that are made with forced labor. The Center also ensures the Department is leveraging and coordinating its capabilities and resources to fight back against traffickers. The bill would allow the CCHT to build out their permanent staff with Special Agents, criminal analysts, and others. It will also allow the Center to modernize their systems and operations to support worldwide investigations on human trafficking and forced labor in supply chains, and bolster efforts to protect human trafficking victims. Finally, the legislation will also expand and improve national public awareness and law enforcement training initiatives to boost efforts to counter trafficking.\n\nPeters\u2019 legislation to increase coordination between Department of Homeland Security components and the Blue Campaign, a national public awareness effort designed to educate law enforcement and the public to recognize human trafficking, was signed into law as a part of last year\u2019s National Defense Authorization Act.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-bipartisan-bill-to-better-predict-severe-weather-and-protect-michiganders-heads-to-president-to-be-signed-into-law", "Peters Bipartisan Bill to Better Predict Severe Weather and Protect Michiganders Heads to President to be Signed into Law", "2022-12-15", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 U.S. Senator Gary Peters\u2019 (MI) bipartisan legislation to establish a National Integrated Flood Information System is headed to the President to be signed into law, after passing the U.S. House of Representatives.\n\nThe Flood Level Observation, Operations, and Decision Support (FLOODS) Act \u2013 which Peters reintroduced with U.S. Senator Roger Wicker (R-MS) and that unanimously passed the U.S. Senate last year \u2013 would provide funding to strengthen the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration\u2019s (NOAA) ability to forecast floods, hurricanes, and tornados and disperse relevant information to local officials and first responders. Peters is a member of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, which oversees NOAA.\n\n\u201cIn Michigan, we\u2019ve seen firsthand how severe storms and devastating floods can have a tremendous impact on our lives and livelihoods \u2013 especially as these storms continue to worsen due to climate change,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cI was proud to champion this bipartisan bill that will help ensure we can better predict and prepare for severe weather like flooding to protect our communities.\u201d\n\n\u201cFlooding is a common and deadly natural disaster in the U.S., resulting in over $25 billion in annual economic losses,\u201d said Senator Wicker. \u201cEvents in my home state of Mississippi, such as the prolonged opening of the Bonnet Carr\u00e9 spillway and the Pearl River and Yazoo backwater floods, underscore the importance of an effective understanding and response to high water. This legislation would protect lives and property by directing NOAA to improve its flood monitoring, forecasting, and communication efforts.\u201d\n\n\u201cWith flash floods occurring more frequently in every corner of the nation, early and reliable detection and warning is critical to save life and property,\u201d said Cheryl Small, Executive Director, National Flood Association. \u201cWe believe the integration and partnerships \u2014 including with the private sector \u2014 that will be developed or improved through this legislation will result in a more prepared and resilient nation.\u201d\n\n\u201cInvesting in science and NOAA\u2019s prediction and communication capabilities will help keep communities \u2014 particularly vulnerable communities in coastal and inland floodplains\u2014safe,\u201d said Rachel Cleetus, Policy Director and Lead Economist, Union of Concerned Scientists Climate & Energy Program. \u201cThis timely legislation will improve the NOAA\u2019s forecasting through comprehensive data collection and integration at multiple levels, including governmental, private and non-governmental agencies and organizations.\u201d\n\nThe FLOODS Act is also supported by the American Association of Flood Plain Managers, the American Property Casualty Insurance Association, National Wildlife Federation, Environmental Defense Fund, National Society of Professional Surveyors, and the U.S. Geospatial Executives Organization.\n\nThe bipartisan bill would also form partnerships between NOAA and institutions of higher learning to bolster total water predictions, assign a service coordination hydrologist at each National Weather Service River Forecast Center to support decision making on the local and statewide levels, and establish a committee to increase coordination between federal agencies responsible for water management.\n\nPeters has led numerous efforts to support Michigan communities that have been affected by flooding and other severe weather events. Peters secured $500 million in funding as part of the bipartisan infrastructure law for a program he created to help states establish revolving loan programs for local governments to carry out mitigation projects that reduce the risk of natural disasters, including extreme flooding, shoreline erosion, and rising water levels. As Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, Peters also convened a hearing with disaster preparedness and response experts to hear how worsening natural disasters, including flooding, severe storms, and wildfires, continue to harm lives and livelihoods in Michigan and across the nation.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-bipartisan-legislation-to-prevent-conflicts-of-interest-in-federal-contracting-heads-to-president-to-be-signed-into-law", "Peters Bipartisan Legislation to Prevent Conflicts of Interest in Federal Contracting Heads to President to be Signed Into Law", "2022-12-15", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 The House has passed bipartisan legislation authored by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) to help identify and mitigate potential conflicts of interest between taxpayer-funded projects and government contractors\u2019 other business opportunities. The federal government contracts with private companies to support important government functions \u2013 such as the delivery of services and the approval of prescription drugs. However, many contractors also conduct business with the private sector or other outside entities, and this can raise questions about the reliability of consultations, advice, or projects under federal contracts if not handled appropriately. The bill requires updates to existing rules to improve services while allowing contractors to continue pursuing business opportunities to the greatest extent possible. The bill passed the Senate in August, and now moves to the President to be signed into law.\n\n\u201cThe government needs to help ensure parts of a federal contractor\u2019s business do not conflict with their service to the American people. That is why federal agencies should know about these private companies\u2019 potential conflicts of interest before they receive a contract,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cThis bipartisan, commonsense legislation will ensure that federal contractors work in the best interests of Michiganders and the American people, and not outside interests. It will also ensure these companies provide transparency about whether outside relationships could be influencing taxpayer-funded work.\u201d\n\nReports have highlighted the need to prevent conflicts of interest within companies that are awarded federal contracts. For example, McKinsey & Company, a management consulting corporation often hired by the federal government, was paid more than $140 million dollars since 2008 by the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) to help support their oversight work of pharmaceutical companies \u2013 including determining the safety and efficacy of prescription pain medications. At the same time, McKinsey had not disclosed to the FDA that they were also consulting for several opioid manufacturers on how these companies could effectively market their products. This has called into question whether consultants from McKinsey were providing biased advice to the FDA, and whether that advice was influenced by their relationship with the drug makers whose business practices are a root cause of the opioid epidemic. Peters\u2019 legislation will give federal agencies a process to evaluate similar potential conflicts of interest to ensure that federal consultants and other contractors are using taxpayer dollars to work in Americans\u2019 best interests.\n\nThe Preventing Organizational Conflicts of Interest in Federal Acquisition Act would require agencies to identify potential conflicts for specific contracts early in the process. Federal contractors would be required to disclose other business relationships with entities that conflict with the specific work that an agency has hired them to do. Private companies under contract with the U.S. government would also have to disclose new potential business that opposes ongoing services they are providing to the American people. The bill would ensure federal contractors are aware of disclosure requirements and how working with agencies could impact other parts of their business. Finally, the legislation requires federal agencies to assess and update their procedures for determining whether contractors could have a conflict of interest.\n\nBelow are statements in support of Peters\u2019 bipartisan legislation:\n\n\u201cThe U.S. government increasingly relies on government contractors for their expertise on matters that threaten our nation's safety and security. Yet, based on current federal contract regulations, agencies cannot always discern whether government contractors have business relationships with foreign governments and private entities that could create a conflict of interest,\u201d said Noah Bookbinder, President of Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington. \u201cTo protect the integrity of services provided to the United States, CREW endorses the Preventing Organizational Conflicts of Interest in Federal Acquisition Act, which would require greater transparency in contractor business relationships in order to prevent conflicts of interest.\u201d\n\n\u201cCompanies perform mission-critical government functions. Organizational conflicts present one type of ethics risk to the government, and they must be identified and avoided through careful government oversight,\u201d said Scott Amey, General Counsel for the Project on Government Oversight. \u201cWithout more guidance, organizational conflicts of interest can result in unfair competitive advantages and biased contract awards\u2014both of which compromise the impartiality of the federal government and the integrity of the contracting process.\u201d\n\n\u201cWhen government policymaking is tainted by conflicts of interest, it weakens the legitimacy and credibility of the entire process. That erodes public confidence in government and harms democracy,\u201d said Scott Greytak, Director of Advocacy for Transparency International U.S. \u201cThis bill promotes greater transparency and accountability to ensure the public can trust that government is making decisions with their best interests at heart.\u201d\n\nIn his role on the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, Peters has worked to ensure government is effectively serving the American people. His bipartisan legislation to strengthen protections for Inspectors General so they can conduct independent oversight to root out waste, fraud and abuse of taxpayer dollars has advanced in the Senate. Peters also led several efforts to investigate multiple instances of wasteful spending and conflicts of interest during the previous Administration.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-led-provisions-to-support-michigans-defense-sector-included-in-national-defense-bill-headed-to-presidents-desk", "Peters-Led Provisions to Support Michigan\u2019s Defense Sector Included in National Defense Bill Headed to President\u2019s Desk", "2022-12-15", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI), a former Lieutenant Commander in the U.S. Navy Reserve and member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, helped pass the bipartisan annual national defense bill out of the full Senate and send it to the President\u2019s desk to be signed into law. Peters successfully led or supported provisions in the bill to invest in Michigan\u2019s military facilities, strengthen our national security, bolster troop preparedness, combat PFAS contamination and give our servicemembers a pay raise.\n\n\u201cMichiganders play a key role in our national defense and I was proud to secure critical investments in Michigan\u2019s defense sector. From efforts to combat PFAS contamination \u2013 to ensuring our troops are well-prepared \u2013 to bolstering Michigan\u2019s military installations \u2013 this legislation takes important steps to support those who courageously serve our nation,\u201d said Senator Peters, a former Lieutenant Commander in the U.S. Navy Reserve and member of the Senate Armed Services Committee. \u201cI\u2019m pleased this bill that will soon be law also includes a well-deserved pay raise for our troops and strengthens our national security.\u201d\n\n\u201cSenator Peters continues to be a champion for the Michigan National Guard who fights to ensure our Soldiers and Airmen have the federal support they need to perform their mission,\u201d said Major General Paul D. Rogers, Adjutant General and Director of the Michigan Department of Military and Veterans Affairs. \u201cThis year\u2019s NDAA contains many wins for Michigan that will keep our installations and facilities at the forefront of Department of Defense training and ensure Michigan remains a vital enabler of our National Defense Strategy.\u201d\n\nThe National Defense Authorization Act sets annual policy for the Department of Defense (DOD). The defense bill has been signed into law for more than 60 straight years.\n\nThe following provisions Peters led or supported, including the authorization of more than $40 million in funding for Michigan\u2019s military facilities, were secured in the Senate-approved bill, which now heads to the President\u2019s desk for signature:\n\nInvesting in Michigan Military Facilities:\n\n$1.6 Million for Army Reserve Center at Southfield: Peters included an authorization of $1.6 million to complete the construction of maintenance facilities at the Army Reserve Center in Southfield. This builds on Peters\u2019 efforts in last year\u2019s national defense bill to secure a $12 million authorization to help construct new maintenance facilities at the Army Reserve unit in Southfield, which allows servicemembers who serve as mechanics to maintain and extend the lifespan of military vehicles and enable them to utilize the latest equipment and facilities.\n\n$16 Million for National Guard Armory at Camp Grayling: Peters secured an authorization of $16 million for a National Guard armory at Camp Grayling. This funding authorization aligns with the President\u2019s budget calling for funding the armory and helps ensure the Armory can receive full appropriations. This follows Peters\u2019 efforts in last year\u2019s national defense bill to secure the authorization of $5.7 million for the construction of a power generation system.\n\n$24 Million for Marine Corps Reserve Unit at Battle Creek: Peters included an authorization of $24 million for new supply and storage facilities for the Marine Corps Reserve Unit in Battle Creek. This builds on Peters\u2019 efforts in last year\u2019s national defense bill to secure the authorization of $10 million to construct a new main gate and entrance facility to Battle Creek Air National Guard Base.\n\nAddressing PFAS Contamination:\n\nTackling PFAS Contamination: Peters has led the charge in the Senate addressing PFAS contamination. Peters supported provisions in the defense bill to phase out the military purchase of firefighting equipment containing PFAS, support the development of PFAS-free protective gear, require the DoD to regularly provide updates on PFAS research, study the health impact PFAS has on defense communities, and authorize significant funding to clean up PFAS contaminated military sites.\n\nSupporting Michigan\u2019s Defense Sector and Advanced Technology:\n\nFunding Electrification Technology for Army Vehicles: Peters secured a $5 million authorization to help fund the continued development of Next Generation Electrified Transmission, as well as a provision encouraging continued Army funding towards the project to reduce fossil fuel reliance and meet climate strategy goals. This funding will ensure that vital work to develop next-generation, hybrid engines can continue being done in Michigan.\n\nEnsuring Appropriate Use and Recycling of Federal Electric Vehicle Batteries: The bipartisan package includes a provision, based on Peters\u2019 Strategic EV Management Act, that would ensure government agencies are properly using and recycling batteries from the federal fleet of electric vehicles (EVs). The provision will help the federal government provide American manufacturers with a domestic supply of reusable EV batteries and the rare metals needed to make them, while reducing our nation\u2019s dependence on foreign suppliers for these limited, but critical resources.\n\nSupport for Ground Combat Vehicles: Peters supported an increase in authorization of funding for ground combat vehicles \u2013 including the Abrams tanks, Stryker vehicle upgrades, and Paladin Integrated Management (PIM) systems. General Dynamics Land Systems in Sterling Heights is the prime contractor for the Stryker armored vehicle and many Michigan companies serve as suppliers for each of these platforms.\n\nBolstering Cybersecurity Efforts: Peters supported a provision to establish the DoD Cyber and Digital Service Academy as a scholarship-for-service program partnered with universities and colleges in the United States, with a DOD service requirement for participants. As Chairman of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, Peters is leading the charge to strengthen our cybersecurity and has passed into law significant cybersecurity reforms.\n\nEnsuring Agencies Can Quickly Adopt Cloud-Based Technology: Peters secured a provision, based on his bipartisan bill, to ensure federal agencies are able to quickly adopt cloud-based technologies that improve government operations and efficiently provide services to Americans. The provision will also make sure federal cloud systems \u2013 which store a considerable amount of personal and sensitive information \u2013 are secure from cyber-attacks.\n\nSecuring and Preventing Misuse of Data Collected By Artificial Intelligence: The package includes a provision, based on bipartisan legislation authored by Peters, that would ensure that government contractors are securing and using data collected by artificial intelligence technology, such as biometric data from facial recognition scans, in a way that protects protect national security and in ensures the privacy and rights of all Americans.\n\nSupporting Our Troops, Their Families, and Their Communities:\n\nPay Raise for Troops: Peters supported a 4.6 percent pay raise for both military servicemembers and the DoD civilian workforce.\n\nSupporting Troop Preparedness: Peters secured a provision highlighting the importance of cold weather training and mandating that DoD provide a report detailing existing all-domain warfighting centers that are able to support artic like training exercises. Also included was provision supported by Peters that authorizes $32.5 million in funding for female/small stature body armor.\n\nPromoting STEM Education through STARBASE: Peters supported efforts to authorize significant funding for STARBASE, a DoD Youth Program that promotes STEM education. Selfridge Air National Guard Base in Harrison Township is home to the first STARBASE program, which specifically provides K-12 students unique experiences in experiential learning, simulations and experiments in aviation and space-related fields.\n\nSupporting Defense Community Infrastructure Projects: Peters secured language altering the requirement for the Defense Community Infrastructure Program (DCIP) by allowing for land which is community owned but DoD leased to be eligible for DCIP project funding \u2013 allowing for the possibility of communities near Selfridge Air National Guard Base to apply for DCIP funds. Historically, DCIP projects have been used to improve access to and from military facilities, build more resilient infrastructure, enhance quality of life among servicemembers and their families, and bridge the gap between defense installations and the communities they serve.\n\nSafeguarding Houses of Worship: Peters helped secure a provision to reauthorize the Nonprofit Security Grant Program at $360 million. Peters has long championed and supported increased funding for this program, which provides grants to help houses of worship and at-risk nonprofits plan for and safeguard their facilities against potential attacks.\n\nInvest in Defense Operations and Support U.S. Security Interests:\n\nSupporting Ukraine and Key Allies: The bill extends and modifies the Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI), which provides appropriate security assistance to the Government of Ukraine and to other forces or groups recognized by, and under the authority of, the Government of Ukraine; and authorizes funding to provide security assistance to Ukraine via this authority.\n\nSupporting Counter Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) Research: Peters supported provisions to reauthorize cooperation between the U.S. and Israel on counter-unmanned aerial systems issues. This builds on Peters\u2019 efforts in the previous national defense bill, which authorized a program for joint research and development with Israel on counter-unmanned aerial systems technology. A range of unmanned aerial systems from small, commercially available platforms to larger, armed aircraft pose a threat to both the United States and Israel. This cooperative research program will allow the United States military to benefit from Israel\u2019s expertise and experience in countering unmanned aerial systems.\n\nSupporting Defense Relationship Between U.S. and Israel: Peters included a provision to clarify the requirements and expectations from Congress for the U.S. Israel Operations Technology Working Group. Peters previously called for the formation of the working group with the Israeli government to focus on shared defense technology issues and coordinate defense capabilities, research and development.\n\nSupporting Taiwan: Peters supported the authorization of the Taiwan Enhanced Resilience Act of 2022, including various provisions designed to increase security cooperation with Taiwan consistent with the Taiwan Relations Act, which would help deter aggression from the Chinese government.\n\nBuilding Information Operations: Peters included a requirement for the DoD to better identify and build up partner nation capacity to conduct information operations.\n\nInvesting in the U.S. Coast Guard:\n\nU.S. Coast Guard Great Lakes Center of Expertise: The bill authorizes additional funding for the operation of the U.S. Coast Guard Great Lakes Center of Expertise for Oil Spill Preparedness and Response. In 2018, Peters authored a provision that was signed into law to establish the Great Lakes Center of Expertise to examine the impacts of oil spills in freshwater environments and help develop effective responses. Peters later secured $4.5 million for the Center of Expertise, and led efforts to ensure it was headquartered in Michigan. Peters helped cut the ribbon at the Center of Expertise at Lake Superior State University\u2019s Center for Freshwater Research and Education.\n\nImprove U.S. Coast Guard Data on Oil Spill Modeling: The bill would incorporate a recommendation from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine to ensure the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) acquires all data relevant to advanced predictive modeling for spills of diluted bitumen being transported by pipelines. NOAA has begun incorporating new data on this practice; however, they are not required by law to do so. Therefore, this commonsense provision authored by Peters would require U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) to acquire this data to improve oil spill preparedness moving forward.\n\nAuthorize Funding for New Great Lakes Icebreaker: The bill provides an authorization of $350 million in funding to acquire an additional Great Lakes icebreaker.\n\nAddress Backlog of USCG Infrastructure Projects: The bill would begin to address the current backlog of USCG infrastructure projects in the Great Lakes by requiring an annual report from USCG on shoreside infrastructure needs by region.\n\nModernizing Water Infrastructure:\n\nWater Resources Development Act: The bipartisan Water Resources Development Act is included in the national defense bill. Peters helped secure major water infrastructure investments \u2013 including the authorization of projects through the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to modernize the Soo Locks, stop invasive carp, prevent coastal erosion and flooding, and improve water quality in Michigan, among other priorities.\n\nOther Provisions:\n\nBolstering Federal Response to Disasters and Emergencies: Peters also helped secure provisions to strengthen our federal government\u2019s response to natural disasters and emergencies. One bipartisan provision, based on legislation Peters helped introduce this summer, would ensure our nation is better prepared for high-consequence events, regardless of the low probability, such as new strains of disease, biotechnology accidents, or naturally occurring risks such as super volcanoes or solar flares that though unlikely, would be exceptionally lethal if they occurred. Peters also secured a provision that would expand mental health assistance for communities recovering from the psychological effects of natural disasters and other emergencies.\n\nStrengthening Protections for Inspectors General: As Chair of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, Peters has long worked to ensure government works effectively and efficiently. Peters secured long overdue reforms, based on legislation he championed in the Senate, to strengthen protections for inspectors general who conduct independent oversight to prevent and uncover fraud, waste, and abuse of tax dollars in the federal government.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-stabenow-announce-senate-passage-of-water-resources-development-act", "Peters, Stabenow Announce Senate Passage of Water Resources Development Act", "2022-12-15", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI) and Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), a member of the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works, today announced Senate passage of the bipartisan Water Resources Development Act. The Senators secured major water infrastructure investments for Michigan in the final bill. The Water Resources Development Act authorizes projects through the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to modernize the Soo Locks, stop invasive carp, prevent coastal erosion and flooding, and improve water quality in Michigan. The bill now heads to President Biden\u2019s desk.\n\n\u201cThis legislation makes essential investments to modernize our water infrastructure, keep our water safe and protect the Great Lakes for future generations,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cI was proud to include key provisions I fought for that will reduce the risk of rising water levels and floods, address the threat of Asian Carp, safeguard Michigan\u2019s waterways, and upgrade key locks and dams \u2013 including the Soo Locks.\u201d\n\n\u201cMichigan knows firsthand how more frequent and more severe weather caused by the climate crisis is taking a toll on our coastal communities and aging infrastructure. These investments will address erosion in our coastal areas, prevent damaging flooding in our communities, improve water quality, and stop the spread of invasive Carp and other species in our Great Lakes. This legislation also authorizes the critical funding needed to modernize the Soo Locks,\u201d said Senator Stabenow.\n\nThanks to the leadership of Senator Peters and Senator Stabenow, the Water Resources Development Act will:\n\nModernize the Soo Locks: The bill will give the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers the funding flexibility they need to finish building a new lock at the Soo on schedule.\n\nIncrease the federal cost share for Brandon Road Lock and Dam project: The federal cost share for constructing the Brandon Road Lock and Dam project will increase from 80% to 90% to prevent invasive carp and other invasive species from entering the Great Lakes. This increase will help expedite the completion of this critical project.\n\nAddress destructive coastline erosion and flooding: The bill allows the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to provide support to Great Lakes states to prevent future erosion and flooding in coastal communities.\n\nIdentify and address flood risks in Southeast Michigan and Midland County: The bill authorizes the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to work with Southeast Michigan and Midland County to identify and address flood risks in their communities caused by extreme precipitation.\n\nSupport sewer overflow, storm water, and drinking water projects: The bill increases Michigan\u2019s statewide Environmental Infrastructure Assistance Program authority from $35 million to $85 million and expands its eligibility to support new sewer overflow, storm water, and drinking water projects. The bill also authorizes $7.2 million for Cascade Charter Township and $40 million for Macomb County for wastewater infrastructure improvements.\n\nExpedite the Great Lakes Coastal Resiliency Study: The bill authorizes the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to expedite the completion of the Great Lakes Coastal Resiliency Study to develop a coordinated strategy to manage and protect the Great Lakes. Any future studies identified would be automatically authorized.\n\nEnable navigation projects at South Haven Harbor: The bill authorizes an investigation into the feasibility of modifying navigation projects at South Haven Harbor for turning basin improvements.\n\nSupport ecosystem restoration and flood risk management at Grosse Pointe Shores and Grosse Pointe Farms: The bill authorizes the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to provide support to Grosse Pointe Shores and Grosse Pointe Farms for ecosystem restoration and flood risk identification.\n\nIdentify the economic impact of recreational boating: The bill requires the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to provide Congress with a report on the economic benefits of recreational boating in the Great Lakes basin.\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-passes-peters-bipartisan-legislation-to-help-prevent-foreign-influence-in-us-policy", "Senate Passes Peters Bipartisan Legislation to Help Prevent Foreign Influence in U.S. Policy", "2022-12-15", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 The Senate passed bipartisan legislation authored by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, to improve our nation\u2019s ability to prevent foreign governments, including adversaries like the Chinese and Russian governments, from attempting to influence U.S. policy without making appropriate disclosures. The legislation would help prevent lobbyists working on behalf of foreign governments and political parties from exploiting an existing Foreign Agent Registration Act (FARA) provision that exempts Lobbying Disclosure Act registrants who are agents of foreign persons or organizations from registering under FARA.\n\n\u201cForeign influence in our nation\u2019s political process presents a serious national security threat,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cThis bipartisan bill will shine a light on nefarious foreign lobbying practices and ensure that the government is working in the best interest of Americans and Michiganders \u2013 not our foreign adversaries.\u201d\n\nThe Lobbying Disclosure Improvement Act would require Lobbying Disclosure Act registrants to indicate, as part of their registration, whether they are taking advantage of the FARA exemption. This would help the Department of Justice narrow the pool of Lobbying Disclosure Act registrants they are examining for potential violations, while not imposing any meaningful additional burden on registrants.\n\nIn his role on the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, Peters has also worked to ensure government is effectively serving the American people. His bipartisan legislation to help identify and mitigate potential conflicts of interest between taxpayer-funded projects and government contractors\u2019 other business opportunities will soon be signed into law. A law written by Peters to reduce duplicative software purchases called the MEGABYTE Act has saved taxpayers more than $450 million since 2016.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-bipartisan-bill-to-strengthen-federal-disaster-response-by-repealing-outdated-dhs-contracting-requirements-to-be-signed-into-law", "Peters Bipartisan Bill to Strengthen Federal Disaster Response by Repealing Outdated DHS Contracting Requirements to be Signed Into Law", "2022-12-14", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 The House has passed bipartisan legislation authored by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, to repeal a section of the Post-Katrina Emergency Management Reform Act of 2006 that required the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to prohibit the use of subcontracts for more than 65% of the cost of certain emergency response and recovery contracts. The section conflicts with a provision of the 2009 National Defense Authorization Act that imposed a government-wide limitation to prevent excessive subcontracting. Peters\u2019 bill, the Repeal of Obsolete DHS Contracting Requirements Act, reinforces the government-wide standard and provides greater clarity to federal contractors and DHS employees who are responsible for managing our nation\u2019s federal disaster response. The legislation, which passed the Senate in June, now heads to the President to be signed into law.\n\n\u201cOutdated subcontracting requirements have caused confusion for FEMA officials and hindered effective disaster response efforts needed to help communities in Michigan and across the nation recover from worsening severe weather events including floods, hurricanes, and wildfires,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cBy removing these conflicting requirements, this legislation will bolster our nation\u2019s ability to respond to extreme weather events, and provide clear guidance for federal contractors responsible for helping with disaster relief efforts.\n\nAs Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, Peters has led several efforts to strengthen our federal disaster preparedness and response. Peters secured $500 million in funding as part of the bipartisan infrastructure bill for a program he created to help states establish revolving loan programs for local governments to carry out mitigation projects that reduce the risk of shoreline erosion, extreme flooding, and other natural disasters. Peters also convened a hearing with disaster preparedness and response experts to hear how worsening natural disasters, including flooding, severe storms, and wildfires, continue to threaten lives and livelihoods in Michigan and across the nation. Peters\u2019 bipartisan legislation to protect Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Reservists from losing their full-time employment when they are called up to assist communities with disaster response has passed the Senate.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-investigation-finds-significant-failures-in-federal-governments-pandemic-preparedness-and-initial-covid-19-response", "Peters Investigation Finds Significant Failures in Federal Government\u2019s Pandemic Preparedness and Initial COVID-19 Response", "2022-12-08", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI), Chairman of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, released a new report detailing the findings of his two-year investigation into the federal government\u2019s initial response to COVID-19 from December 2019 through March 2020, as the virus quickly spread throughout the country. The report identifies significant failures in the federal government\u2019s initial response to the pandemic in those early, yet critical, months and offers recommendations for Congress and the federal government to bolster our preparedness and response for future public health crises. As a part of the investigation, the Committee interviewed dozens of current and former senior officials responsible for coordinating the nation\u2019s response to COVID-19.\u201cThe COVID-19 pandemic was an unprecedented public health crisis. However, the loss of life, suffering, and economic devastation were not inevitable. My investigation found that long term systemic failures left our nation unprepared to grapple with public health threats, and when the virus began to spread throughout the country \u2013 the federal government failed to act quickly and formulate a comprehensive response,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cThese compounding failures unfortunately cost lives and livelihoods in Michigan and across the nation.\u201d\n\nPeters continued: \u201cThe COVID-19 pandemic was not the first public health crisis our nation has faced \u2013 nor will it be the last. Implementing the recommendations in this report will help ensure our nation can prevent the next crisis, whatever it may be, from reaching this magnitude.\u201d\n\nREAD THE FULL REPORT: \u201cHistorically Unprepared: Examination of the Federal Government\u2019s Pandemic Preparedness and Initial COVID-19 Response\u201d\n\nREAD THE EXECUTIVE SUMMARY\n\nThe report\u2019s key findings include:\n\nThe U.S. failed to sufficiently invest in public health preparedness across multiple Administrations;\n\nStatutory authorities and policy directives that dictate federal leadership during public health emergencies overlap and lack clarity;\n\nThe U.S. medical supply chain lacks sufficient domestic manufacturing capacity for critical medical products;\n\nU.S. public health surveillance systems for monitoring and detecting emerging infectious diseases are inadequate, antiquated, and fragmented; and\n\nCommunications about COVID-19 were inconsistent and sometimes contradictory and critical federal public health guidance was often delayed.\n\nThe report makes key recommendations to ensure the lessons learned from this pandemic are effectively implemented, including:\n\nInvest in sustainable multi-year funding for public health emergency preparedness and response across all levels of government\n\nClarify agency roles in pandemic preparedness and response;\n\nInvest in sustainable domestic manufacturing capacity for critical medical products;\n\nStandardize health data collection to improve future public health responses and minimize burdens on providers; and\n\nBuild infrastructure necessary for testing surge capacity and initiate advance contracts that can be rapidly executed during public health crises.\n\nPeters\u2019 investigation found that despite warnings, our nation was unprepared to address severe public health crises and the government chronically failed to invest in public health infrastructure for decades. The report also found that agencies responsible for responding to the pandemic often had overlapping responsibilities, which along with uncoordinated changes in leadership, significantly undermined the initial response to the pandemic at a time when the government needed to take quick and decisive action. The investigation also found that our nation failed to quickly develop and scale COVID-19 testing capabilities, collect needed COVID-19 data, and as a result, surveillance systems failed to accurately capture the extent of the evolving crisis. This made it nearly impossible to track the spread of COVID-19 and mount an effective and equitable response to the pandemic. The report recommends actions that Congress and the federal government can take to support sustained funding for public health infrastructure, clarify agency roles in pandemic preparedness and response, and improve health data collection.\n\nIn a 2019 report, Peters previously raised concerns and identified recommendations to address the risks posed by America\u2019s overreliance on foreign sources for key medical products. This investigation found that throughout January and early February 2020, the federal government received multiple warnings of personal protective equipment (PPE) supply concerns, but the federal government failed to take sufficient action to secure needed contracts and bolster the domestic supply of medical products needed to protect Americans from a severe and highly transmissible virus. As a result, when COVID-19 spread in communities across the nation, state and federal stockpiles were quickly depleted, and Americans were left vulnerable because of shortages of masks, gowns, gloves, and everyday hospital supplies \u2013 like needles, syringes, and ventilators. The report makes recommendations to provide greater visibility of foreign sources of medical supplies and strengthen domestic manufacturing to produce critical medical supplies in the United States.\n\nFinally, the investigation found that poor and contradictory public health guidance from the federal government at the onset of the pandemic caused confusion among the public about how they should protect themselves from the virus. For instance, the federal government relayed conflicting guidance on the effectiveness of masks, failed to convey the limitations of what it knew and didn\u2019t know at the time, and the Trump Administration downplayed the threat, at one point taking away CDC\u2019s ability to communicate with the public, all of which created ripple effects as the pandemic continued in the following months.\n\nThis report builds on Peters\u2019 efforts to conduct oversight of the federal COVID-19 response and ensure our nation is better prepared to address public health threats. His bipartisan legislation to strengthen efforts to encourage domestic production of PPE was signed into law. He also convened a hearing with supply chain, pharmaceutical, and medical experts on how the Trump Administration failed to anticipate shortages of critical drugs and medical supplies, and take actions to acquire needed supplies at the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Peters convened an additional hearing with former officials and experts in public health and emergency management to examine the federal government\u2019s preparation for and response to the COVID-19 pandemic.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-stabenow-secure-major-water-infrastructure-investments-to-address-serious-risks-to-michigans-economy-and-great-lakes", "Peters, Stabenow Secure Major Water Infrastructure Investments to Address Serious Risks to Michigan\u2019s Economy and Great Lakes", "2022-12-08", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI), and Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), a member of the Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works, secured major water infrastructure investments for Michigan in the final bipartisan Water Resources Development Act. This bill authorizes projects through the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to modernize the Soo Locks, stop invasive carp, prevent coastal erosion and flooding, and improve water quality in Michigan. The House and Senate are expected to pass the bill soon.\n\n\u201cThis legislation makes essential investments to modernize our water infrastructure, keep our water safe and protect the Great Lakes for future generations,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cI was proud to include key provisions I fought for that will reduce the risk of rising water levels and floods, address the threat of Asian Carp, safeguard Michigan\u2019s waterways, and upgrade key locks and dams \u2013 including the Soo Locks.\u201d\n\n\u201cMichigan knows firsthand how more frequent and more severe weather caused by the climate crisis is taking a toll on our coastal communities and aging infrastructure. These investments will address erosion in our coastal areas, prevent damaging flooding in our communities, improve water quality, and stop the spread of invasive Carp and other species in our Great Lakes. This legislation also authorizes the critical funding needed to modernize the Soo Locks,\u201d said Senator Stabenow.\n\nThanks to the leadership of Senator Peters and Senator Stabenow, the Water Resources Development Act will:\n\nModernize the Soo Locks: The bill will give the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers the funding flexibility they need to finish building a new lock at the Soo on schedule.\n\nIncrease the federal cost share for Brandon Road Lock and Dam project: The federal cost share for constructing the Brandon Road Lock and Dam project will increase from 80% to 90% to prevent invasive carp and other invasive species from entering the Great Lakes. This increase will help expedite the completion of this critical project.\n\nAddress destructive coastline erosion and flooding: The bill allows the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to provide support to Great Lakes states to prevent future erosion and flooding in coastal communities.\n\nIdentify and address flood risks in Southeast Michigan and Midland County: The bill authorizes the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to work with Southeast Michigan and Midland County to identify and address flood risks in their communities caused by extreme precipitation.\n\nSupport sewer overflow, storm water, and drinking water projects: The bill increases Michigan\u2019s statewide Environmental Infrastructure Assistance Program authority from $35 million to $85 million and expands its eligibility to support new sewer overflow, storm water, and drinking water projects. The bill also authorizes $7.2 million for Cascade Charter Township and $40 million for Macomb County for wastewater infrastructure improvements.\n\nExpedite the Great Lakes Coastal Resiliency Study: The bill authorizes the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to expedite the completion of the Great Lakes Coastal Resiliency Study to develop a coordinated strategy to manage and protect the Great Lakes. Any future studies identified would be automatically authorized.\n\nEnable navigation projects at South Haven Harbor: The bill authorizes an investigation into the feasibility of modifying navigation projects at South Haven Harbor for turning basin improvements.\n\nSupport ecosystem restoration and flood risk management at Grosse Pointe Shores and Grosse Pointe Farms: The bill authorizes the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to provide support to Grosse Pointe Shores and Grosse Pointe Farms for ecosystem restoration and flood risk identification.\n\nIdentify the economic impact of recreational boating: The bill requires the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to provide Congress with a report on the economic benefits of recreational boating in the Great Lakes basin.\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-passes-peters-clear-and-concise-content-act", "Senate Passes Peters Clear and Concise Content Act", "2022-12-08", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 The Senate has passed U.S. Senator Gary Peters\u2019 (MI) bipartisan Clear and Concise Content Act. The bill ensures that guidance, instructions, and other public information published by the federal government is written in plain language.\n\n\u201cThis bill does exactly what its name implies \u2013 it makes government communications easier to understand,\u201d said Senator Peters.\n\nFor more information on the bill, please click here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/friday-at-1000am-office-of-us-senator-gary-peters-to-host-veterans-history-project-event-at-eastern-michigan-university", "FRIDAY AT 10:00AM: Office of U.S. Senator Gary Peters to Host Veterans History Project Event at Eastern Michigan University", "2022-12-07", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "YPSILANTI, MI \u2013 The Office of U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) will host a Veterans History Project event on FRIDAY, December 9th at 10:00 AM at Eastern Michigan University in Ypsilanti. The Veterans History Project (VHP) of the Library of Congress American Folklife Center collects, preserves and makes accessible to the American public a national archive featuring the firsthand interviews and narratives of United States military veterans from World War I through the present \u2013 along with the stories of Gold Star families.\n\nThrough the work of Veterans History Project volunteers, the recorded interviews, memoirs and other documents from Michigan veterans will be submitted to the Library of Congress. These stories allow future generations to hear directly from veterans to learn about their stories of service and sacrifice and better understand the realities of war.\n\n\u201cOur nation\u2019s veterans have protected our freedoms, families, and values as Americans. We owe it to them to ensure their stories and experiences live on, which is why I encourage local veterans and Gold Star families to participate in the Veterans History Project by sharing their stories,\u201d said Senator Peters.\n\nPeters, who currently serves on the Senate Armed Services Committee, volunteered for the U.S. Navy Reserve at age 34, where he earned a Seabee Combat Warfare Specialist designation and rose to the rank of Lieutenant Commander. After the September 11th terrorist attacks on our country, he volunteered again for drilling status and served overseas as part of his Reserve duty. Peters is the son of a World War II veteran.\n\nVeterans interested in participating in the December 9th Veterans History Project event with Senator Peters\u2019 office are required to RSVP by calling (517) 908-0143 or emailing veteranshistoryproject@peters.senate.gov with their name and contact information.\n\nWHO: Office of U.S. Senator Gary Peters\n\nWHAT: Veterans History Project\n\nWHEN: Friday, December 9th\n\n10:00 AM\n\nWHERE: Halle Library\n\nEastern Michigan University\n\n955 West Circle Drive\n\nYpsilanti, MI 48197\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-bipartisan-legislation-to-help-at-risk-communities-invest-in-disaster-mitigation-projects-heads-to-president-to-be-signed-into-law", "Peters Bipartisan Legislation to Help At-Risk Communities Invest in Disaster Mitigation Projects Heads to President to be Signed into Law", "2022-12-07", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 The House has passed bipartisan legislation authored by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, to make permanent the Federal Emergency Management Agency\u2019s (FEMA) National Risk Index (NRI) \u2013 an online tool that utilizes data to identify communities that are most vulnerable to natural disasters. The bill would also require FEMA to use data from the NRI to establish community disaster resilience zones (CDRZs) to designate the communities across the nation that are most in need of mitigation projects \u2013 and help them access federal funding and support to plan for mitigation and resilience projects. As damage from extreme weather events continues to cause billions of dollars in damages that taxpayers must cover, Peters\u2019 legislation will help at-risk communities make important investments that will limit the damage caused by natural disasters. The legislation, which was passed by the Senate in September, now heads to the President to be signed into law.\n\n\u201cCommunities in Michigan and across the nation who are most affected by natural disasters often lack the necessary resources to invest in resilient infrastructure. By helping direct public and private investments toward these communities, this legislation will help them withstand destructive extreme weather events,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cIt will also ensure our nation is taking a strategic, data-driven approach to protecting communities from floods, wildfires, and storms.\u201d\n\nSmall, impoverished, rural and historically disadvantaged communities continue to face severe consequences from natural disasters \u2013 including loss of life and significant financial damage. Studies have shown that resilience and mitigation spending saves taxpayers an average of $6 for every $1 invested. By making permanent and utilizing data from the NRI \u2013 which factors in expected annual losses, social vulnerability and community resilience \u2013 Peters\u2019 legislation would help allocate resources so at-risk communities can develop FEMA-approved hazard mitigation projects.\n\nThe Community Disaster Resilience Zones Act would amend the Stafford Act to make permanent the National Risk Index and utilize its data to identify and designate community disaster resilience zone communities that are the most at risk to natural hazards. This will allow FEMA to identify what communities are most in need of assistance for mitigation projects. Community disaster resilience zone designations will be made public so other federal departments and stakeholders interested in protecting communities from natural disasters can understand what areas are most in need of investments. The bill requires FEMA to create an optional review process for potential mitigation projects within a community disaster resilience zone to help direct private investors to approved, meaningful mitigation projects. The legislation would also allow the President to provide community disaster resilience zones with increased federal resources to upgrade their infrastructure to withstand natural disasters.\n\nAs Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, Peters has led several efforts to strengthen our federal disaster preparedness and response. Peters secured $500 million in funding as part of the bipartisan infrastructure bill for a program he created to help states establish revolving loan programs for local governments to carry out mitigation projects that reduce the risk of shoreline erosion, extreme flooding, and other natural disasters. Peters also convened a hearing with disaster preparedness and response experts to hear how worsening natural disasters, including flooding, severe storms, and wildfires, continue to harm lives and livelihoods in Michigan and across the nation. Peters\u2019 bipartisan legislation to protect FEMA Reservists from losing their full-time employment when they are called up to assist communities with disaster response has been signed into law.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-stabenow-announce-confirmation-of-judge-f-kay-behm", "Peters, Stabenow Announce Confirmation of Judge F. Kay Behm", "2022-12-06", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014U.S. Senators Gary Peters and Debbie Stabenow announced the U.S. Senate has confirmed the nomination of Judge F. Kay Behm to be the U.S. District Court Judge for the Eastern District of Michigan.\n\nOn July 27, the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee held a hearing considering her nomination. A video of the hearing can be found here. A video of Senator Peters\u2019 remarks can be found here, and a video of Senator Stabenow\u2019s remarks can be found here.\n\n\u201cJudge Behm is a highly-qualified jurist whose extensive legal experience and dedication to public service will serve our state and nation well,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cI have every confidence in her abilities and am pleased we confirmed her to serve as the next federal judge in the Eastern District of Michigan. I was proud to support her nomination and look forward to seeing her serve on the federal bench.\u201d\n\n\u201cJudge Behm has been a thoughtful public servant for Genesee County at the 7th Circuit Court. I have no doubt that she will continue to serve the people of Michigan well on the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan. Judge Behm represents the best of Michigan, and I am confident she is ready and prepared to serve the people of Michigan on the federal bench. Her confirmation is great news for Michigan,\u201dsaid Senator Stabenow.\n\nOn June 29, President Biden nominated Judge Behm to serve as U.S. District Court judges for the Eastern District. Judge Frances Kay Behm has served as a judge for the Genesee County Circuit and Probate Courts since 2009. Judge Behm was previously a solo practitioner from 2008 to 2009. From 1997 to 2008, Judge Behm was an associate at Winegarden, Haley, Lindholm, & Robertson in Flint, Michigan and an associate at Braun Kendrick Finbeiner in Saginaw, Michigan from 1994 to 1997. Judge Behm received her J.D. from the University of Michigan Law School in 1994 and her B.A., summa cum laude, from Albion College in 1991.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-bill-to-protect-michigan-communities-from-future-changes-to-metropolitan-area-standards-signed-into-law", "Peters Bill to Protect Michigan Communities from Future Changes to Metropolitan Area Standards Signed into Law", "2022-12-05", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Bipartisan legislation authored by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, to help protect communities in Michigan from losing access to important federal funding because of possible changes to the population threshold for metropolitan areas, was signed into law. Communities count on this designation for federal funding that goes towards important programs. The White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) had previously proposed increasing the population threshold for metropolitan areas from 50,000 to 100,000 which could have threatened access to vital federal resources for communities across the nation, including six in Michigan. Cities that could have been affected by this change include Battle Creek, Bay City, Jackson, Midland, Monroe, and Niles-Benton Harbor. However, following calls from Peters, OMB announced it would halt the proposed change. Peters\u2019 bipartisan bill will ensure that future modifications to this designation are carefully deliberated to prevent unintended consequences.\n\n\u201cUntested changes to metropolitan area standards could put communities throughout Michigan at risk of losing access to vital federal resources,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cThis new law will ensure that the federal government carefully considers how changes to this classification may impact communities across the nation before they go into effect.\u201d\n\nMetropolitan statistical areas (MSAs) were created to standardize and identify the nation\u2019s largest centers of population and activity. Metropolitan and non-metropolitan designations are used by agencies across the federal government to determine eligibility for funding and services. OMB\u2019s previously proposed change could have impacted federal resources for nearly 150 communities across the nation. While losing MSA status may not necessarily result in a loss of federal funds, future changes to the designation should undergo careful consideration to prevent any unintended consequences.\n\nThe Metropolitan Areas Protection and Standardization Act will provide needed analysis and transparency by requiring OMB to collaborate with federal agencies to study and disclose the impacts to federal programs before any change to metropolitan area standards can be implemented. The bill will extend the public comment period for potential changes and ensure the public is aware of how MSAs are used to determine federal benefits. Finally, the legislation will also instruct OMB to publish a report on the estimated impact to domestic assistance programs for any proposed change to metropolitan area standards.\n\nThe Metropolitan Areas Protection and Standardization Act is supported by the U.S. Conference of Mayors, the National Rural Health Association, the National Association of Counties, the Michigan Municipal League, the Michigan Association of Counties, the Southeast Michigan Council of Governments, the Battle Creek, Michigan City Manager\u2019s Office, Mayor Marcus Muhammad of Benton Harbor, Michigan, and Kinexus.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/president-signs-peters-bipartisan-bill-to-save-taxpayer-dollars-by-ensuring-federal-property-and-assets-are-disaster-resilient", "President Signs Peters Bipartisan Bill to Save Taxpayer Dollars by Ensuring Federal Property and Assets Are Disaster Resilient", "2022-12-05", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Bipartisan legislation authored by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, that requires federal agencies to take disaster resilience into account when investing in and managing federal property and assets has been signed into law. The legislation builds off of a 2021 report from the Government Accountability Office (GAO), which found that over the past five years, the government spent billions of dollars to repair federal property damage resulting from natural disasters. As extreme weather events become more frequent, the bill will help ensure that federal property \u2013 such as hospitals, research centers, offices, and roads and bridges \u2013 can withstand worsening natural disasters and save taxpayer dollars that would be spent on damages.\n\n\u201cWorsening natural disasters continue to cause physical and financial damage to property in Michigan and across the nation,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cThis new law will ensure that the federal government \u2013 our nation\u2019s largest property owner \u2013 is planning for the impacts of floods, wildfires, and storms when managing public buildings. This will save taxpayer dollars and ensure that federal infrastructure is resilient to natural disasters that are only worsening due to climate change.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe business community has long supported building smart, modern, resilient infrastructure. We commend Chairman Peters and Sen. Scott for their leadership in ensuring that federal agencies must consider resilience and effectively manage assets, just like the private sector,\u201d said Marty Durbin, Senior Vice President for Policy, U.S. Chamber of Commerce. \u201cThe bipartisan Disaster Resiliency & Planning Act is commonsense, good public policy.\u201d\n\n\u201cA significant amount of taxpayer dollars hang in the balance every year for the planning, maintenance, and building of federal resources, and other investment decisions,\u201d said Melissa Roberts, Executive Director, American Flood Coalition Action. \u201cAs flooding and other disasters become more frequent and severe, it is essential that federal leaders are armed with risk assessments and resilience plans that can drive smart investment and maintenance decisions. American Flood Coalition Action applauds Chairman Gary Peters and Senator Rick Scott for their bipartisan leadership in introducing the Disaster Resiliency Planning Act. The law will ensure taxpayer dollars are spent effectively, while making federal assets and their surrounding communities more resilient.\u201d\n\nIn September 2021, the GAO released a report evaluating how federal agencies are working to prevent or reduce damage to their property and assets caused by natural disasters. The report found that while some agencies have begun taking steps to incorporate disaster resilience, many still have not taken sufficient action to mitigate the effects of extreme weather. Studies have shown that resilience and mitigation spending saves taxpayers an average of $6 for every $1 invested. Peters\u2019 legislation will not only save taxpayer dollars, but ensure federal property and infrastructure is able to withstand natural disasters as they continue to grow more frequent and more severe.\n\nThe Disaster Resiliency Planning Act, which builds off of a recommendation from the GAO report, will require the Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to provide federal agencies with guidance on how to incorporate natural disaster resilience into their asset management and investment decisions. OMB will work in consultation with GAO and the Federal Emergency Management Agency to establish guidance, which will help federal agencies identify potential gaps in their disaster resilience prevention efforts. The legislation will also require the OMB Director to submit a report to the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee detailing the guidance within a year. Finally, the legislation will require the OMB Director to brief the committee on the implementation of guidance across agencies within two years.\n\nPeters has led numerous efforts to ensure that taxpayer dollars are spent effectively and efficiently. His bipartisan bill to save taxpayer dollars by ensuring public buildings use energy-efficient lighting has been signed into law. Earlier this year, he convened a hearing to ensure emergency relief funds have been effectively used to help Americans affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Peters\u2019 bipartisan bill to save taxpayer dollars by ensuring federal property assets are disaster resilient has advanced in the Senate. Peters\u2019 provision to help save billions of federal taxpayer dollars by curbing erroneous payments to deceased individuals was signed into law last Congress. A law written by Peters to reduce duplicative software purchases called the MEGABYTE Act has saved taxpayers more than $450 million since 2016.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-and-stabenow-bill-to-name-baraga-county-post-office-after-first-woman-elected-to-the-michigan-house-of-representatives-signed-into-law", "Peters & Stabenow Bill to Name Baraga County Post Office After First Woman Elected to the Michigan House of Representatives Signed into Law", "2022-12-02", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Legislation authored by U.S. Senators Gary Peters (MI), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, and Debbie Stabenow (MI) to designate the post office located at 404 US-41 North in Baraga County, Michigan as the \u201cCora Reynolds Anderson Post Office,\u201d has been signed into law. Cora Reynolds Anderson, a member of the Ojibwa tribe, was the first woman elected to the Michigan House of Representatives and represented parts of Baraga County. She was also the first Native American woman elected to serve in any state legislature.\n\n\u201cAs the first Native American woman to serve in any state legislature, Cora Reynolds Anderson remains a vital part of our state\u2019s and our nation\u2019s history,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cThroughout her career, she improved the lives of people all across the Upper Peninsula. Naming this post office in Baraga County after this trailblazer will help cement her legacy as a dedicated leader and public servant.\u201d\n\n\u201cCora Reynolds Anderson is such an important part of Michigan\u2019s history. As the first woman elected to the Michigan House of Representatives \u2013 and the first Native American woman to serve in any state legislature \u2013 she paved the way for so many women, including me, to hold public office. Naming this post office in the county she represented after her is one special way that Michiganders can honor and remember her for generations to come,\u201d said Senator Stabenow.\n\nPhotograph of Cora Reynolds Anderson as published in the Mining Journal.\n\nCora Reynolds Anderson was born in L\u2019Anse, Michigan in 1882. She was first elected to the Michigan House of Representatives in 1925 where she represented Baraga, Iron, Keweenaw, and Ontonagon Counties. While serving in Michigan\u2019s Legislature, she chaired the Industrial Home for Girls Committee and served on the Committees for Agriculture, Insurance, and the Northern State Normal School. Her work included fighting to recognize Native American fishing rights and combatting the alcoholism and tuberculosis epidemics. In 2001, she was inducted into the Michigan Women\u2019s Hall of Fame for her contributions to society.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-bipartisan-bill-to-reduce-the-spread-of-toxic-pfas-at-commercial-airports-heads-to-the-president-to-be-signed-into-law", "Peters Bipartisan Bill to Reduce the Spread of Toxic PFAS at Commercial Airports Heads to the President to be Signed into Law", "2022-12-02", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "DETROIT, MI \u00ad\u00ad\u2013 Bipartisan legislation authored by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) to reduce the spread of toxic per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination at commercial airports is headed to the President\u2019s desk to be signed into law, after unanimously passing the U.S. Senate.\n\nThe Preventing PFAS Runoff at Airports Act \u2013 which passed the U.S. House of Representatives in September \u2013 would deploy more existing Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) funding for commercial airports to purchase devices necessary to test their firefighting equipment without discharging toxic PFAS chemicals. This legislation would encourage commercial airports to purchase the relatively low-cost devices \u2013 also referred to as an input-based testing system \u2013 to help limit and prevent exposure to PFAS, which are known as \u201cforever chemicals\u201d because they do not naturally break down. It would also direct the FAA to identify options for reimbursing airports in Michigan and elsewhere that already acquired the devices without federal funding.\n\n\u201cBy making testing equipment that prevents the spread of PFAS contamination more affordable for airports, we can better protect not only our environment but also families, first responders, and the Great Lakes from these toxic chemicals,\u201d said Senator Peters, a member of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee. \u201cMy bipartisan Preventing PFAS Runoff at Airports Act will use commonsense, fiscally responsible means to reduce PFAS contamination in communities across the country and I\u2019m pleased it will soon be law.\u201d\n\n\u201cCommercial airports should have the necessary equipment to test their firefighting equipment in a manner that does not expose firefighters or the surrounding communities to toxic PFAS foams,\u201d said Senator Moran. \u201cPassing this legislation in the Senate will help promote the health and wellness of firefighters and aviation employees at commercial airports, as well as protect the communities that surround them.\u201d\n\nThe FAA has required commercial airports nationwide to use firefighting foam that contains toxic PFAS chemicals. For years, airports were required to discharge this foam as part of routine, federally-mandated testing of their firefighting equipment. This put firefighters, the environment, and the public at risk from exposure to toxic PFAS chemicals.\n\nThe Preventing PFAS Runoff at Airports Act \u2013 which Peters introduced earlier this year with U.S. Senators Jerry Moran (R-KS), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) and previously passed the Senate unanimously \u2013 would make more funding from the FAA\u2019s Airport Improvement Program available to commercial airports to purchase devices that avoid discharging PFAS chemicals when testing firefighting equipment. It would also direct the FAA to identify options for reimbursing airports in Michigan and elsewhere that already acquired the devices without federal funding.\n\nPeters has led the charge in the Senate to address PFAS contamination. In July, Peters introduced bipartisan legislation to help advance the federal government\u2019s understanding of toxic per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) to better inform plans to effectively address PFAS contamination. As Chairman of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, he held a field hearing in East Lansing to examine federal efforts and coordination with state and local governments to clean up and prevent PFAS contamination. Following that he introduced bipartisan legislation to improve communication and coordination efforts across every level of government to ensure there is a more comprehensive approach to cleaning up existing sites and preventing future contamination. Previously, he convened a hearing last December examining Department of Defense failures to protect servicemembers, military families and Michigan communities from PFAS exposure. Peters bill to help protect firefighters and emergency responders from PFAS exposure in the line of duty also passed the Senate.\n\nLast year, Peters released a report by the Government Accountability Office (GAO) that shows the federal government needs to take further action to clean up and prevent contamination from PFAS and helped pass the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which invests in clean drinking water and includes dedicated funding to address PFAS contamination. He supported or led provisions in the 2019 national defense bill banning the Department of Defense from purchasing firefighting foams containing PFAS. The bill also immediately prohibited the use of firefighting foams containing PFAS in military training exercises, and enhanced state cooperation with the Department of Defense regarding clean-up due to PFAS contamination stemming from military-related activities. He authored and enacted into law in 2018 a provision allowing airports to discontinue the use of firefighting foams with PFAS. In September 2018, Peters helped convene the first hearing on PFAS contamination in the Senate, assessing the federal response to contamination and remediation. He then convened a field summit in Grand Rapids in November 2018 to shine a light on how the local, state and federal governments are coordinating their response to PFAS.\n\nBelow are statements in support of Peters\u2019 bipartisan legislation:\n\n\u201cAt Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport, our fire department utilizes an input-based testing system,\u201d said Chad Newton, CEO, Wayne County Airport Authority. \u201cIt is portable, which means we can test multiple trucks, saving money and reducing the environmental impact. If the system was funded at 100-percent federal share, as Senator Peters is considering in his legislation, that would help airports throughout Michigan and the country. We all want to ensure we have the best firefighting equipment, at the same time preventing harmful chemicals from reaching our water systems. This proposed bill would also help the smaller departments that cannot afford this technology.\u201d\n\n\u201cToxic PFAS contamination is a major threat in communities across Michigan, and this legislation will help reduce exposure to PFAS at commercial airports, one of the key sources of contamination,\u201d said Bentley Johnson, Federal Government Affairs Director for the Michigan League of Conservation Voters. \u201cWe commend Sen. Peters and sponsors of this legislation for taking proactive steps to protect our health and begin to start tackling this water contamination crisis.\u201d\n\n\u201cCherry Capital Airport applauds Senator Peters\u2019 bipartisan efforts to secure funding for input-based testing equipment for Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting vehicles. This equipment allows airports to meet their regulatory vehicle testing requirements without discharging firefighting foam containing PFAS. This step in a road of many brings the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) closer to the goal of eliminating PFAS chemicals from impacting our soil and water,\u201d said Kevin Klein, CEO of the Northwest Regional Airport Authority and Director of the Cherry Capital Airport. \u201cCherry Capital Airport looks forward to the day that the FAA accepts and implements a new firefighting foam that will protect the flying public.\u201d\n\n\u201cMAAE supports this bill which will allow airports to acquire input-based testing equipment through the AIP, so they can perform required ARFF vehicle testing without introducing AFFF into the environment,\u201d said Miles Weaver, President of the Michigan Association of Airport Executives and Airport Operations Manager at Battle Creek Executive Airport at Kellogg Field. \u201cMAAE appreciates Senator Peters\u2019 leadership to assist airports not only in Michigan but nationwide in addressing this aspect of the PFAS issue.\u201d\n\n\u201cEnvironmental stewardship is a top priority for airport executives, and AAAE appreciates this bipartisan effort to enhance the federal government\u2019s support for airports to safely test aqueous film forming foam (AFFF),\u201d said American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE) President & CEO Todd Hauptli. \u201cWhile airports eagerly await federal approval of PFAS-free foam and significant long-term federal support to transition from FAA-mandated AFFF, this legislation is a positive step forward that merits support. We are grateful to Senator Peters and his colleagues for continued leadership on this important issue.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe appreciate Senators Peters and Moran working together to help airports acquire additional firefighting foam testing carts. The 2018 FAA reauthorization law directed the FAA to certify a fluorine-free alternative firefighting foam for airports to use, and we look forward to that work concluding in a timely manner and to the establishment of a national transition plan for fluorine-free foams,\u201d said Annie Russo, Chief Political and Congressional Strategy Officer at Airports Council International \u2013 North America. \u201cIn the meantime, airports welcome this assistance in getting new carts to capture firefighting foam discharged during FAA-mandated certification tests.\u201d\n\n\u201cIt is crucial that airports have the resources necessary to extinguish fires safely and minimize the environmental impact of fighting these fires. The IAFC thanks Senator Peters for introducing this legislation, which will greatly assist airports in meeting both needs,\u201d said Chief Kenneth Stuebing, President and Board Chair of the International Association of Fire Chiefs.\n\n\u201cFire fighters dedicate their lives to protecting others. While saving others and making their communities better places to live, these brave men and women continue to experience exposures to toxic PFAS-laden firefighting foams subjecting them to higher risks of cancer and other serious health effects,\u201d said Edward A. Kelly, General President of the International Association of Fire Fighters. \u201cThis is unacceptable. The IAFF supports Senators Peters\u2019 legislation providing for foam containment devices to be installed on aircraft firefighting vehicles, and on behalf of our 326,000 members, I commend him for his continuous efforts to help protect fire fighters and the communities they serve from unnecessary PFAS exposure.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe applaud Senator Peters for finding creative solutions to limit the use of PFAS containing fire-fighting foam at airports here in the Great Lakes region through more affordable access to emergency testing equipment,\u201d said Jennifer Hill, Associate Director of the Great Lakes Regional Center of National Wildlife Federation. \u201cThe use of AFFF here in Michigan has resulted in PFAS contamination consumption advisories for deer, fish, and wildlife, both in local communities and the Great Lakes. PFAS contamination is impacting the water resources, fish and wildlife we value as Michiganders \u2013 and has real consequences for the Great Lakes outdoor economy if we don\u2019t work together, alongside impacted communities, to address its sources.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-stabenow-applaud-cdcs-90-million-federal-investment-in-michigans-public-health-workforce-and-infrastructure", "Peters, Stabenow Applaud CDC\u2019s $90 Million Federal Investment in Michigan\u2019s Public Health Workforce & Infrastructure", "2022-12-02", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "DETROIT, MI \u2013 U.S. Senators Gary Peters and Debbie Stabenow applauded the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) announcement that they will provide over $90 million in federal funding to strengthen and expand Michigan\u2019s public health workforce, capacity and data systems. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services will receive $81,900,324 and the Detroit Health Department will receive $9,248,900 through the CDC\u2019s Strengthening U.S. Public Health Infrastructure, Workforce, and Data Systems grant program. Funding for the Public Health Infrastructure Grant Program is supported by the American Rescue Plan, legislation that Peters and Stabenow helped enact into law.\n\n\u201cThe past few years have reinforced how important it is to invest in our public health workforce and ensure our local health departments have the necessary resources to hire and train staff to meet Michiganders\u2019 current needs and protect public health in the future.\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cThis federal funding, which I supported through the American Rescue Plan, will help ensure that Michigan has the people, services, and systems needed to keep families across our state healthy and safe.\u201d\n\n\u201cOver the past couple years, our public health workforce has been challenged like never before,\u201d said Senator Stabenow. \u201cThese funds will equip our local health departments with the staff and resources needed to provide critical public health services to our communities.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis investment in public health will help the State of Michigan and the City of Detroit recruit, retain, and train a qualified workforce,\u201d said Governor Whitmer. \u201cI am so grateful to Senators Stabenow and Peters for continuing to fight for Michigan, ensuring we have the resources we need to keep our families and communities safe and healthy.\u201d\n\n\u201cThank you to Senator Peters, Senator Stabenow, the CDC and the Biden Administration for their efforts to deliver this critical funding, which is an excellent opportunity to enhance the foundation of the Detroit Health Department,\u201d said Denise Fair Razo, Chief Public Health Officer for the City of Detroit. \u201cThis funding will allow us to provide greater services to our residents in many ways, including support of our initiatives to ensure equitable access to care. The Detroit Health Department is excited about this opportunity to enhance our ongoing work to create impactful, positive change in the lives of our residents.\u201d\n\nThe first-of-its-kind funding provides flexible awards directly to state, local, and territorial health departments, to help ensure they have the staff, public health services, and systems they need to promote and protect health in their communities. It includes significant resources that awardees can use to recruit, retain, and train their workforce, including critical frontline public health workers such as epidemiologists, contact tracers, laboratory scientists, community health workers and data analysts. Additionally, state recipients are directed to award 40% of their workforce funds to local health departments who are not direct recipients.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-and-dingell-bipartisan-bill-to-protect-firefighters-from-hazardous-pfas-chemicals-to-be-signed-into-law", "Peters & Dingell Bipartisan Bill to Protect Firefighters from Hazardous PFAS Chemicals to be Signed into Law", "2022-12-01", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 Legislation led by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, and U.S. Representative Debbie Dingell (D-MI-12) to help protect the health and safety of firefighters and emergency responders from PFAS exposure has passed the House. The Protecting Firefighters from Adverse Substances (PFAS) Act directs federal agencies to develop best practices, training, and educational programs to reduce, limit and prevent exposure to PFAS, also known as \u2018forever chemicals\u2019 because they do not naturally break down. The bill would also require the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to develop educational resources for firefighters on alternative foams and personal protective equipment that do not contain PFAS. The legislation, which passed the Senate last summer, now heads to the President\u2019s desk to be signed into law.\n\n\u201cFirefighters and first responders put their lives on the line every day to keep our communities in Michigan and across the nation safe,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cThis bipartisan, commonsense legislation will protect our heroes from harmful PFAS substances and minimize exposure to these dangerous chemicals that continue to harm residents and communities in Michigan and across the country.\u201d\n\n\u201cForever chemicals are an urgent public health threat, especially to our firefighters who are frequently exposed to harmful PFAS in firefighting foams and personal protective equipment as they work to keep us safe,\u201d said Congresswoman Dingell. \u201cI\u2019m proud to send the PFAS Act to the president\u2019s desk to protect our frontline emergency responders from the dangerous effects of these forever chemicals, and further minimize the spread of PFAS in our environment and communities.\u201d\n\nEmergency response teams are frequently exposed to harmful per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in firefighting foams and personal protective equipment as they work to keep communities safe. PFAS substances have been linked to a number of health problems, including certain cancers.\n\nThe Protecting Firefighters from Adverse Substances (PFAS) Act would direct the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) \u2013 in consultation with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the U.S. Fire Administration, and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health \u2013 to develop educational resources to help protect firefighters, emergency response personnel, and the communities they serve from PFAS exposure. This would include information for federal, state, and local firefighters on training and best practices to prevent and reduce exposure to PFAS from firefighting foams and protective gear, as well as resources that identify alternatives for firefighting tools and equipment that do not contain PFAS.\n\nThe legislation builds on Peters\u2019 longstanding efforts to address PFAS contamination. He convened a field hearing in East Lansing with senior federal officials and local stakeholders to examine efforts to clean up PFAS contamination in Michigan. Peters recently introduced bipartisan legislation to strengthen and expand federal research on PFAS contamination. His bipartisan legislation to reduce the spread of PFAS chemicals at commercial airports has passed the Senate. Last year, Peters convened a hearing to examine how servicemembers, their families and communities in Michigan and across the country have been harmed by exposure to toxic PFAS substances connected to military sites. In September 2018, Peters helped convene the first hearing on PFAS contamination in the Senate, assessing the federal response to contamination and remediation. He then convened a field summit in Grand Rapids in November 2018 to shine a light on how the local, state and federal governments are coordinating their response to PFAS.\n\nBelow are statements in support of the PFAS Act.\n\n\u201cFirefighters are exposed to harmful PFAS chemicals when fighting fires, which could result in disastrous health consequences,\u201d said Kevin Sehlmeyer, State of Michigan Fire Marshal. \u201cBy leading this legislation, Senator Peters continues to show his clear commitment to protecting Michigan\u2019s firefighters from PFAS exposure by providing resources to ensure these brave heroes, who risk their lives to keep our communities safe, are not unnecessarily put at risk in the line of duty.\u201d\n\n\u201cI\u2019m grateful to Senator Peters for leading this legislation that will protect Michigan\u2019s firefighters from exposure to toxic PFAS chemicals \u2013 which can lead to serious health problems including cancer,\u201d said Matthew Sahr, President of the Michigan Professional Firefighters Union. \u201cThis bipartisan bill shows Senator Peters\u2019 strong commitment to safeguarding and supporting firefighters across our state.\u201d\u201cThis critical legislation will help protect the health and safety of firefighters and other rescue personnel as they continue to serve in communities across Michigan,\u201d said Fred Timpner, Executive Director of the Michigan Association of Fire Fighters. \u201cThe Michigan Association of Fire Fighters applauds Senator Peters\u2019 continued efforts to protect firefighters in the line of duty \u2013 including by limiting their exposure to harmful PFAS substances.\u201d\u201c\"Fire fighters and emergency medical responders have dedicated their lives to protecting others. Unfortunately, these brave men and women are exposed to dangerous \u2018forever chemicals\u2019 while serving their communities, subjecting them to higher risks of cancer and other serious health effects,\u201d said Edward A. Kelly, General President of the International Association of Fire Fighters. \u201cThe IAFF supports measures to curtail the use of these chemicals and commends Senator Peters for his continuous efforts to help protect fire fighters, emergency medical responders, and the communities they serve from unnecessary PFAS exposure.\" \u201cI thank Congress for passing this historic legislation. The life of a firefighter is inherently dangerous while also facing a higher risk of cancer than the general population. This legislation will provide important resources to help fire chiefs reduce the risk of their personnel\u2019s exposure to PFAS,\u201d said Chief Donna Black, the President and Board Chair of the International Association of Fire Chiefs. \u201cI thank Chairman Peters and all of this bill\u2019s supporters for their tireless work to secure its final passage.\u201d \u201cI\u2019d like to thank Senator Peters for his leadership on the PFAS Act. Firefighters have a greater risk of contracting and dying from cancer than the general public as a result of duty-related exposures,\u201d said Steve Hirsch, Chairman of the National Volunteer Fire Council. \u201cEnactment of this important legislation will lead to improved health and safety outcomes for firefighter, EMS, and rescue personnel.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-stabenow-introduce-judge-jonathan-jc-grey-in-senate-committee-hearing", "Peters, Stabenow Introduce Judge Jonathan J.C. Grey in Senate Committee Hearing", "2022-11-30", "2022", "2022-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senators Gary Peters and Debbie Stabenow today introduced Judge Jonathan J.C. Grey to the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee for a hearing considering his nomination to be the U.S. District Judge for the Eastern District of Michigan. Judge Grey was nominated by President Biden on September 2. A video of the hearing can be found here.\n\n\u201cWithout question, Judge Grey is accomplished and has critical attributes for federal judges: he is committed to upholding the rule of law, has strong interpersonal skills, and treats everyone with both dignity and respect,\u201d Senator Peters said. \u201cI am confident that Judge Grey will be confirmed by the Senate and honorably represent the people of Michigan and our country on the federal bench \u2013 and urge this Committee\u2019s support of his nomination.\u201d\n\nIn her introduction, Senator Debbie Stabenow said, \u201cI can think of no better place for Judge Grey to continue to serve the people of Michigan than on the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan. I urge the Committee to support him, and I look forward to supporting his nomination in the Senate.\u201d\n\nA video of Senator Peters\u2019 remarks can be found here and a video of Senator Stabenow\u2019s remarks can be found here.\n\nJonathan J.C. Grey has served as a United States Magistrate Judge for the Eastern District of Michigan since 2021. Judge Grey previously served as an Assistant United States Attorney in the United States Attorney\u2019s Office for the Southern District of Ohio from 2016 to 2021 and the United States Attorney\u2019s Office for the Eastern District of Michigan from 2012 to 2016. From 2011 to 2012 and 2007 to 2009, he was an associate at Seyfath Shaw LLP in Chicago, Illinois. Judge Grey served as a law clerk for Judge Damon J. Keith on the United States Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit from 2010 to 2011 and Judge W. Louis Sands on the United States District Court for the Middle District of Georgia from 2009 to 2010. Judge Grey received his J.D. from the Georgetown University Law Center in 2007 and B.S. from Morehouse College in 2004.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:24:37Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-statement-ahead-of-president-bidens-michigan-visit-2", "Peters Statement Ahead of President Biden\u2019s Michigan Visit", "2022-11-28", "2022", "2022-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) released the following statement ahead of President Biden\u2019s visit to Bay City, Michigan to highlight investments to bolster domestic manufacturing, create good-paying jobs and strengthen our economy:\n\n\u201cMichigan is the backbone of American manufacturing and home to the greatest workers in the world. President Biden\u2019s return to Michigan reaffirms this fact and comes after we\u2019ve worked together to pass historic legislation into law \u2013 including the CHIPS and Science Act and Inflation Reduction Act \u2013 to bolster domestic manufacturing and enter a new era of American ingenuity.\n\n\u201cI was proud to lead the charge to boost American manufacturing of semiconductor chips, including for our auto sector, in the CHIPS and Science Act \u2013 which is a game changer for Michigan and our manufacturers. These critical investments will help keep Michigan workers at the forefront of innovation, strengthen our supply chains, lower costs for families, create good-paying jobs \u2013 including union jobs \u2013 and secure our economic future. I\u2019ll continue working to build on our recent progress and cement our place as global leaders in manufacturing.\u201d\n\nPeters has made strengthening domestic manufacturing a top priority during his time in the Senate. He helped author and pass the CHIPS and Science Act, which includes a provision he and Senator Debbie Stabenow (MI) secured to boost the auto sector\u2019s manufacturing of semiconductor chips. Peters also supported and helped pass the Inflation Reduction Act, which will strengthen domestic manufacturing and create millions of American jobs.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:24:37Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/icymi-peters-investigative-report-shows-dhs-and-fbi-are-not-adequately-addressing-domestic-terrorism-threat", "ICYMI: Peters Investigative Report Shows DHS and FBI Are Not Adequately Addressing Domestic Terrorism Threat", "2022-11-18", "2022", "2022-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI), Chairman of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, released a new report detailing the results of his investigation into the rise of domestic terrorism, including white supremacist and anti-government violence. The report found that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) have failed to effectively track and report data on the domestic terrorism threat despite being required to do so by a 2019 law spearheaded by Peters. The investigation also found that while independent experts and national security officials call white supremacist and anti-government violence the most significant terrorist threat facing our nation today, this lack of data has limited Congress\u2019 ability to determine whether counterterrorism agencies are allocating resources to effectively address the growing threat posed by domestic terrorism. The investigation also found that social media companies\u2019 current business models are designed to prioritize engagement and profits and \u2013 as a result \u2013 platforms end up amplifying dangerous and radicalizing extremist content, including white supremacist and anti-government content.\n\nYahoo News: New Senate report finds FBI, DHS failing to address threat of domestic terrorism\n\n\u201cMore than two decades after 9/11, the federal government is struggling to address the most significant terrorist threat currently facing the nation. That is the crux of a new report released Wednesday by the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee\u2019s Democratic majority.\u201d\n\n\u201c\u2018Certainly, I\u2019m concerned that their inability to provide this information basically indicates that the FBI and DHS have not been effectively tracking incidents as a result,\u2019 Peters said. \u2018If they\u2019re not tracking it, they\u2019re not prioritizing our counterterrorism resources to effectively tackle this threat.\u2019\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Senate committee\u2019s investigation also examined the role of social media \u2014 specifically, Meta, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube \u2014 in accelerating the threat of domestic terrorism and concluded that \u2018terrorist and extremist content permeates social media platforms in part because these platforms\u2019 business models are designed to maximize user engagement, which has the effect of promoting increasingly extreme content.\u2019\u201d\n\nNBC News: FBI, DHS and social media firms like Meta, TikTok aren't adequately addressing threat of domestic extremists, Senate report says\n\n\u201cAn investigation by the Senate Homeland Security Committee alleges that the FBI, the Department of Homeland Security and leading social media companies are not adequately addressing the growing threat of domestic terrorism, especially white supremacist and anti-government extremists.\u201d\n\n\u201cPeters added in a phone call with reporters: \u2018The FBI and DHS must do a better job\u2019 monitoring threat information on social media. Before the Jan. 6 attack, he said, \u2018There was a lot of open-source material that was out there indicating that people were planning to come to the Capitol and engage in violent acts. \u2026 These agencies have to be quicker on their feet.\u2019\u201d\n\n\u201cThe investigation also found that social media companies \u2018have failed to meaningfully address the growing presence of extremism on their platforms\u2019 and that the business models of four leading social media outlets \u2014 Meta, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube \u2014 are based on maximizing user engagement, growth, and profits, which incentivizes increasingly extreme content.\u201d\n\nAssociated Press: Feds, tech fall short on watching extremists, Senate says\n\n\u201cThe FBI and the Department of Homeland Security are failing to adequately monitor domestic extremists, according to a new Senate report that also faulted social media platforms for encouraging the spread of violent and antigovernment content.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe report recommends creating new definitions for extremism that are shared between agencies, improved reporting on crimes linked to white supremacy and antigovernment groups, and better use of social media in an effort to prevent violence, said Sen. Gary Peters, the Michigan Democrat who chairs the committee.\u201d\n\n\u201c\u2018The rise in domestic terrorism can be partially attributed to the proliferation of extremist content on social media platforms and the failure of companies to effectively limit it in favor of action that increase engagement on their platforms,\u2019\u201d the report concluded.\n\nABC News: Social media companies prioritizing profit over harmful content: Senate report\n\n\u201cU.S. social media companies are prioritizing making a profit over taking down harmful rhetoric that leads to violent extremists perpetuating the ideology, according to a Senate Homeland Security Committee report released on Wednesday.\u201d\n\n\u201c[Peters] said social media companies have gotten better about taking the harmful content down. \u2018The problem with that is that once the content is out, particularly if it's particularly provocative, it can spread very quickly,\" he said. \u2018Once the genies out of the bottle sometimes you can't put it back in.\u2019\u201d\n\n\u201c\u2018Domestic terrorism, and in particular white supremacist and anti-government extremists, continues to pose a persistent and lethal threat to homeland security,\u2019 the report said. \u2018This investigation found that the federal government \u2013 specifically DHS and FBI \u2013 is not adequately addressing this growing threat.\u2019\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:24:37Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/photos-peters-presents-commemorative-lapel-pins-to-local-vietnam-veterans", "PHOTOS: Peters Presents Commemorative Lapel Pins to Local Vietnam Veterans", "2022-11-18", "2022", "2022-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WARREN, MI \u2013 U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and former Lieutenant Commander in the U.S. Navy Reserve, today presented commemorative lapel pins to local Michigan Vietnam veterans to thank and honor them, along with their families, for their service and sacrifice. The Vietnam Veteran lapel pins are presented to veterans as part of the national effort to honor the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War which runs through Veterans Day 2025. The ceremony was held during National Veterans and Military Families Month at Macomb Community College.\n\n\u201cFor the millions of soldiers, sailors, airmen, Coast Guard, and Marines who left their homes and families to serve in Southeast Asia, this pin represents a promise that their service and sacrifice in the Vietnam War will never be forgotten,\u201d said Senator Peters, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and former Lieutenant Commander in the U.S. Navy Reserve. \u201cThey answered the call of duty with courage and honor, and unfortunately many of these veterans did not receive the welcome home or recognition they deserve. That\u2019s why I\u2019m so honored to have presented local veterans with a lapel pin to recognize their tremendous patriotism and service during the Vietnam War.\u201d\n\nPeters\u2019 office offers the Vietnam Veteran Lapel Pins to living U.S. veterans who served on active duty in the U.S. Armed Forces at any time between November 1, 1955 and May 15, 1975. Michigan veterans interested in receiving their lapel pin should complete the form available here.\n\nTo download high-resolution photos from today\u2019s ceremony, click here or on the images below.\n\nPeters is a strong advocate for Michigan\u2019s servicemembers and veterans. Last year, Peters was inducted into the Michigan Military and Veterans Hall of Honor for his efforts to support our nation\u2019s veterans and military. In 2017, Peters was recognized as Legislator of the Year by the Vietnam Veterans of America for authoring the bipartisan Fairness for Veterans Act, which was signed into law. The legislation requires veteran discharge review boards to give liberal consideration to petitions for honorable discharge status if the servicemember has been diagnosed with PTSD, TBI or other related conditions connected to their military service. As of the fall of 2020, more than 1,500 veterans have had their discharges upgraded since his legislation was enacted.\n\nPeters also recently helped enact into law the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act \u2013 which delivered VA health care and benefits to all generations of toxic-exposed veterans \u2013 and their survivors \u2013 for the first time in our nation\u2019s history. Peters also introduced bipartisan legislation to protect veterans exposed to toxic chemicals during their service. The Burn Pits Accountability Act would require that servicemembers be assessed for exposure to open toxic burn pits as part of their routine health exams, as this exposure has been known to lead to cancer, cardiovascular toxicity, reproductive issues and neurological damage for numerous Afghanistan and Iraq War veterans.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:24:37Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/video-peters-hearing-with-top-national-security-officials-underscores-need-to-address-persistent-and-evolving-threats", "VIDEO: Peters Hearing with Top National Security Officials Underscores Need to Address Persistent and Evolving Threats", "2022-11-17", "2022", "2022-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, convened a hearing with top national security and counterterrorism officials to examine evolving and persistent threats to homeland security. During the hearing, Peters pressed the witnesses on a report he released yesterday that found the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) are not adequately addressing the threat posed by domestic terrorism, including white supremacist and anti-government violence. The committee also heard about the federal government\u2019s efforts to protect the country from cyber-attacks and increasingly severe natural disasters, efforts to secure our Northern and Southern borders, and what tools and resources the agencies need to counter the threat posed by drones and weapons of mass destruction. DHS Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas, FBI Director Christopher R. Wray, and National Counterterrorism Center (NCTC) Director Christine Abizaid testified before the committee.\n\n\u201cMore than twenty years ago, the September 11th terrorist attacks changed our nation forever. In response, Congress created the Department of Homeland Security and our entire national security apparatus focused on keeping Americans safe from international terrorism. However, in the more than two decades following those attacks, the threats to our communities have evolved and have become increasingly complex,\u201d said Peters during his opening remarks. \u201cThe scope and the volume of these \u2013 and many other national security threats \u2013 requires Congress and this Administration to work together to ensure that we are doing everything we can to keep Americans safe.\u201d\n\nTo watch video of Senator Peters\u2019 opening remarks, click here. For text of Peters\u2019 opening remarks as prepared, click here.\n\nTo watch video of Senator Peters\u2019 questions, click here.\n\nThe number of domestic terrorism attacks inspired by white supremacist and anti-government ideologies has continued to rise. During the hearing, Peters pressed the witnesses about his report that found DHS and the FBI have failed to effectively track and report data on the domestic terrorism threat despite being required to do so by a 2019 law spearheaded by Peters. The investigation also found that while independent experts and national security officials call white supremacist and anti-government violence the most significant terrorist threat facing our nation today, this lack of data has limited Congress\u2019 ability to determine whether counterterrorism agencies are allocating resources to effectively address the growing threat posed by domestic terrorism. Peters pressed Mayorkas and Wray on the federal governments\u2019 inability to collect and report comprehensive data about domestic terrorist attacks despite being required by law to do so. The hearing also examined how lawmakers can provide FBI and DHS with the necessary resources to track and measure the domestic terror threat. Peters highlighted that his report shows that while our nation must continue to monitor and combat international terrorism, the federal government must utilize a data-driven approach to align resources to address the evolving threat of domestic terrorism.\n\nIncreasing numbers of registered unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), commonly known as drones, create a higher risk of both unintentional disasters or attacks using these technologies. Football stadiums, large mass gatherings, and critical infrastructure facilities have all been documented as sites of potential attacks from domestic and foreign adversaries using UAS. With current authorities that grant federal agencies the necessary tools to counter threats from UAS set to expire before the end of the year, Peters asked Mayorkas about the ramifications of allowing these authorities to lapse and the harm a nefarious actor could cause at a large-scale event. Director Wray also discussed how the FBI will not be able to protect large-scale sites and events \u2013 like the Super Bowl \u2013 from malicious UAS should the counter-UAS authorities expire. Peters introduced and passed out of the committee bipartisan legislation that would extend the critical authorities needed to combat threats from UAS.\n\nThe hearing also examined the threat posed by chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear weapons that have the potential to cause everything from mass casualties and incapacitation, to agricultural destruction, and other serious disruptions to our economic and national security. Peters highlighted his bipartisan legislation to reauthorize and strengthen the Office of Countering Weapons of Mass Destruction (CWMD) within DHS \u2013 whose authorities are also set to expire soon.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:24:37Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-bill-to-protect-michigan-communities-from-future-changes-to-metropolitan-area-standards-heads-to-president-to-be-signed-into-law", "Peters Bill to Protect Michigan Communities from Future Changes to Metropolitan Area Standards Heads to President to be Signed into Law", "2022-11-16", "2022", "2022-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 The House has passed bipartisan legislation authored by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, to help protect communities in Michigan from losing access to important federal funding because of possible changes to the population threshold for metropolitan areas. Communities count on this designation for federal funding that goes towards important programs. The White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) had previously proposed increasing the population threshold for metropolitan areas from 50,000 to 100,000 which could have threatened access to vital federal resources for communities across the nation, including six in Michigan. Cities that could have been affected by this change include Battle Creek, Bay City, Jackson, Midland, Monroe, and Niles-Benton Harbor. However, following calls from Peters, OMB announced it would halt the proposed change. Peters\u2019 bipartisan bill would ensure that future modifications to this designation are carefully deliberated to prevent unintended consequences. The legislation, which passed the Senate in May, now heads to the President to be signed into law.\n\n\u201cChanges to the population threshold could end up costing communities in Michigan access to vital federal resources that support programs and services they count on,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cNow that Congress has passed this bipartisan bill, we can ensure that the effects of proposed changes to metropolitan statistical area standards are carefully considered before being put into place and protect communities from being cut off from the resources they need.\u201d\n\nMetropolitan statistical areas (MSAs) were created to standardize and identify the nation\u2019s largest centers of population and activity. Metropolitan and non-metropolitan designations are used by agencies across the federal government to determine eligibility for funding and services. OMB\u2019s previously proposed change could have impacted federal resources for nearly 150 communities across the nation. While losing MSA status may not necessarily result in a loss of federal funds, future changes to the designation should undergo careful consideration to prevent any unintended consequences.\n\nThe Metropolitan Areas Protection and Standardization Act would provide needed analysis and transparency by requiring OMB to collaborate with federal agencies to study and disclose the impacts to federal programs before any change to metropolitan area standards can be implemented. The bill would extend the public comment period for potential changes and ensure the public is aware of how MSAs are used to determine federal benefits. Finally, the legislation would also instruct OMB to publish a report on the estimated impact to domestic assistance programs for any proposed change to metropolitan area standards.\n\nThe Metropolitan Areas Protection and Standardization Act is supported by the U.S. Conference of Mayors, the National Rural Health Association, the National Association of Counties, the Michigan Municipal League, the Michigan Association of Counties, the Southeast Michigan Council of Governments, the Battle Creek, Michigan City Manager\u2019s Office, Mayor Marcus Muhammad of Benton Harbor, Michigan, and Kinexus.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:24:37Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-bipartisan-bill-to-save-taxpayer-dollars-by-ensuring-federal-property-and-assets-are-disaster-resilient-heads-to-president-to-be-signed-into-law", "Peters Bipartisan Bill to Save Taxpayer Dollars by Ensuring Federal Property and Assets Are Disaster Resilient Heads to President to be Signed into Law", "2022-11-16", "2022", "2022-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 The House has passed bipartisan legislation authored by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, that requires federal agencies to take disaster resilience into account when investing in and managing federal property and assets. The legislation builds off of a 2021 report from the Government Accountability Office (GAO), which found that over the past five years, the government spent billions of dollars to repair federal property damage resulting from natural disasters. As extreme weather events become more frequent, the bill will help ensure that federal property \u2013 such as hospitals, research centers, offices, and roads and bridges \u2013 can withstand worsening natural disasters and save taxpayer dollars that would be spent on damages. The legislation, which was passed by the Senate in June, now heads to the President\u2019s desk to be signed into law.\n\n\u201cThe federal government \u2013 the nation\u2019s largest property owner \u2013 must work to limit financial damages to public buildings after extreme weather events,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cBy ensuring that agencies are investing in resilient infrastructure that can stand up to increasingly extreme natural disasters, this legislation will protect our federal property assets and save taxpayer dollars.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe business community has long supported building smart, modern, resilient infrastructure. We commend Chairman Peters and Sen. Scott for their leadership in ensuring that federal agencies must consider resilience and effectively manage assets, just like the private sector,\u201d said Marty Durbin, Senior Vice President for Policy, U.S. Chamber of Commerce. \u201cThe bipartisan Disaster Resiliency & Planning Act is commonsense, good public policy.\u201d\n\n\u201cA significant amount of taxpayer dollars hang in the balance every year for the planning, maintenance, and building of federal resources, and other investment decisions,\u201d said Melissa Roberts, Executive Director, American Flood Coalition Action. \u201cAs flooding and other disasters become more frequent and severe, it is essential that federal leaders are armed with risk assessments and resilience plans that can drive smart investment and maintenance decisions. American Flood Coalition Action applauds Chairman Gary Peters and Senator Rick Scott for their bipartisan leadership in introducing the Disaster Resiliency Planning Act. The law will ensure taxpayer dollars are spent effectively, while making federal assets and their surrounding communities more resilient.\u201d\n\nIn September 2021, the GAO released a report evaluating how federal agencies are working to prevent or reduce damage to their property and assets caused by natural disasters. The report found that while some agencies have begun taking steps to incorporate disaster resilience, many still have not taken sufficient action to mitigate the effects of extreme weather. Studies have shown that resilience and mitigation spending saves taxpayers an average of $6 for every $1 invested. Peters\u2019 legislation would not only save taxpayer dollars, but ensure federal property and infrastructure is able to withstand natural disasters as they continue to grow more frequent and more severe.\n\nThe Disaster Resiliency Planning Act, which builds off of a recommendation from the GAO report, would require the Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to provide federal agencies with guidance on how to incorporate natural disaster resilience into their asset management and investment decisions. OMB would work in consultation with GAO and the Federal Emergency Management Agency to establish guidance, which will help federal agencies identify potential gaps in their disaster resilience prevention efforts. The legislation would also require the OMB Director to submit a report to the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee detailing the guidance within a year. Finally, the legislation would require the OMB Director to brief the committee on the implementation of guidance across agencies within two years.\n\nPeters has led numerous efforts to ensure that taxpayer dollars are spent effectively and efficiently. His bipartisan bill to save taxpayer dollars by ensuring public buildings use energy-efficient lighting has been signed into law. Earlier this year, he convened a hearing to ensure emergency relief funds have been effectively used to help Americans affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Peters\u2019 bipartisan bill to save taxpayer dollars by ensuring federal property assets are disaster resilient has advanced in the Senate. Peters\u2019 provision to help save billions of federal taxpayer dollars by curbing erroneous payments to deceased individuals was signed into law last Congress. A law written by Peters to reduce duplicative software purchases called the MEGABYTE Act has saved taxpayers more than $450 million since 2016.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:24:37Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-investigative-report-shows-dhs-and-fbi-are-not-adequately-addressing-domestic-terrorism-threat", "Peters Investigative Report Shows DHS and FBI Are Not Adequately Addressing Domestic Terrorism Threat", "2022-11-16", "2022", "2022-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI), Chairman of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, released a new report detailing the results of his investigation into the rise of domestic terrorism, including white supremacist and anti-government violence. The report found that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) have failed to effectively track and report data on the domestic terrorism threat despite being required to do so by a 2019 law spearheaded by Peters. The investigation also found that while independent experts and national security officials call white supremacist and anti-government violence the most significant terrorist threat facing our nation today, this lack of data has limited Congress\u2019 ability to determine whether counterterrorism agencies are allocating resources to effectively address the growing threat posed by domestic terrorism.\n\nThe investigation also found that social media companies\u2019 current incentive structures are designed to generate revenues and keep users engaged and \u2013 as a result \u2013 product development processes do not incorporate safety and platforms\u2019 recommendation algorithms and other products end up amplifying dangerous and radicalizing extremist content, including white supremacist and anti-government content. The report offers recommended actions that lawmakers should take to hold DHS, the FBI, and social media companies accountable for failing to provide transparency on how they are working to counter the threat of domestic extremism.\n\n\u201cFrom the horrific shooting at the Tree of Life synagogue to the tragic January 6th attack on the Capitol to the deadly shooting targeting the African American community in Buffalo, and too many other attacks \u2013 we have seen firsthand how violence inspired by white supremacist and anti-government extremists terrorizes communities across the nation,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cDHS and FBI\u2019s inability to provide comprehensive data on the domestic terrorist threat creates serious concerns that they are not effectively prioritizing our counterterrorism resources to address the rising domestic terrorist threat.\u201d\n\nPeters continued: \u201cMy investigation also found that social media companies are contributing to the spread of domestic extremist content that often translates into this real world violence by prioritizing revenue and user engagement over online safety. My report makes important recommendations about the need to increase transparency and accountability to address how these platforms are spreading dangerous and extreme content.\u201d\n\nREAD THE FULL REPORT: \u201cThe Rising Threat of Domestic Terrorism, A Review of the Federal Response to Domestic Terrorism and the Spread of Extremist Content on Social Media\u201d\n\nREAD THE EXECUTIVE SUMMARY\n\nThe report\u2019s key findings include:\n\nDomestic terrorism has been increasing over the last several years, surpassing international terrorism as the most significant terrorism threat to the United States;\n\nWhite supremacist extremists pose the primary threat among all domestic violent extremists;\n\nSince the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, additional counterterrorism authorities and resources for the federal government have been focused primarily on international terrorist threats;\n\nDHS and FBI have not fully complied with requirements in federal law to collect and report data on domestic terrorist attacks; and\n\nExtremist content continues to proliferate on social media platforms, at least partially driven by the companies\u2019 own business models, which prioritize engagement, profits, and growth over safety.\n\nThe report makes key recommendations, including:\n\nReassess the federal government\u2019s counterterrorism efforts;\n\nCreate accountability for DHS and FBI to comply with data reporting requirements and create measurable criteria to assess counterterrorism efforts;\n\nClarify and improve federal agency guidelines on the use of social media while respecting individuals\u2019 constitutional rights;\n\nCreate accountability for social media companies to prioritize safety on their platforms; and\n\nEstablish trust and safety as prioritized metrics for social media companies.\n\nAccording to national security officials and independent organizations, the number of domestic terrorism attacks inspired by white supremacist and anti-government ideologies has continued to rise. According to the Anti-Defamation League, from 2012 to 2021, domestic extremists have been responsible for 443 deaths, with over 50 percent of the deaths caused by white supremacists. Peters\u2019 report shows that while our nation must continue to monitor and combat international terrorism, the federal government must utilize a data-driven approach to align resources to address the threat of domestic terrorism.\n\nPeters\u2019 report also found that the business models of social media companies \u2013 particularly Meta, TikTok, Twitter, and YouTube \u2013 have also allowed the rapid spread of extremist ideologies. According to one study cited in the report, social media played a role in the radicalization of perpetrators involved in over 90 percent of extremist plots or activities in the United States in 2016 alone. During the course of his investigation, Peters found that while social media companies often tout investments in trust and safety, the platforms continue to amplify white supremacist and anti-government content, and they lack incentives and safeguards that would ensure their products are not contributing to the spread of this harmful rhetoric. Despite repeated requests for these companies to provide more information on how they are working to prevent the spread of extremist content \u2013 the platforms provided little transparency.\n\nThe investigation builds on Peters\u2019 longstanding efforts to examine the rising threat of domestic terrorism, including white supremacist and anti-government violence. Peters led the Senate\u2019s bipartisan investigation and released a joint bipartisan report on the security, planning, and response failures related to the violent and unprecedented attack on the U.S. Capitol by domestic terrorists on January 6th. In June, he convened a hearing with experts focusing on the threat of white supremacist extremism, including violence inspired by racist ideologies such as the Great Replacement Theory. Peters also convened a two-part hearing with experts representing faith-based, civil rights, and academic and policy research organizations on the continued rise of domestic terrorism, including white supremacist and anti-government violence. In 2019, Peters helped convene the Committee\u2019s first domestic terrorism hearing with a focus on white supremacist violence.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:24:37Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-stabenow-applauded-over-8-million-in-bipartisan-infrastructure-law-funding-for-michigan-technological-university", "Peters, Stabenow Applauded Over $8 Million in Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Funding for Michigan Technological University", "2022-11-16", "2022", "2022-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 U.S. Senators Gary Peters and Debbie Stabenow today applauded the U.S. Department of Energy\u2019s award to Michigan Technological University $8,137,783 to develop and advance critical technologies and processes needed to recycle and reuse electric vehicle batteries. This federal investment comes from the bipartisan infrastructure law that Peters and Stabenow helped enact a year ago.\n\n\u201cMichigan is a global leader in automotive innovation and developing advanced technologies, thanks in part to work being done at institutions like Michigan Tech,\u201d said Senator Peters, Chairman of the Commerce Subcommittee on Surface Transportation, Maritime, Freight, and Ports. \u201cThis federal investment will help give Michigan Tech more resources to develop the technologies needed to recycle and reuse electric vehicle batteries and their materials \u2013 which will be absolutely critical to strengthening electric vehicle supply chains nationwide and the future of our automotive sector in Michigan.\u201d\n\n\u201cMichigan workers are the best in the world and Michigan Tech is home to some of the brightest engineering minds,\u201d said Senator Stabenow. \u201cThis funding not only recognizes Michigan Tech\u2019s world class leadership in science and technology, but helps keep jobs in America and positions our state to lead the way on cutting edge battery recycling.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis robust investment will support Michigan Tech's researchers, faculty, and students\u2019 continued efforts to develop and deploy the next generation of technologies to recycle electric vehicle batteries that will guide the future of the auto industry in Michigan and nationwide,\u201d said Rick Koubek, President of Michigan Technological University. \u201cWe thank Senators Peters and Stabenow for their continued support, along with Professor Lei Pan for his leadership of this project.\u201d\n\nIn roughly the past two years, more than 1.2 million electric vehicles have been sold in the U.S. \u2013 and demand for critical EV battery minerals, such as lithium and graphite, is projected to increase by as much as 4,000% in the coming decades. Advanced batteries are vital to the entire clean energy economy, but America currently does not produce enough of the critical minerals and battery materials needed to power these clean energy technologies. If unaddressed, the lack of domestic mining, processing, and recycling capacity will hinder clean energy and transportation development and adoption, leaving the nation dependent on unreliable foreign supply chains. This funding from the bipartisan infrastructure law will support efforts at Michigan Technological University to strengthen the recycle and reuse segment of the domestic battery supply chain \u2013 enabling accelerated battery production in the U.S. and helping to mitigate battery supply chain disruptions.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:24:37Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-homeland-security-and-governmental-affairs-committee-advances-nominees-and-postal-naming-legislation", "Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee Advances Nominees & Postal Naming Legislation", "2022-11-16", "2022", "2022-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI) and Rob Portman (R-OH), Chairman and Ranking Member of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, announced the Committee advanced two nominees and one postal naming bill during a business meeting on Wednesday. The nominees and postal naming bill were reported favorably by voice vote, unless otherwise noted.\n\nNominations:\n\nRobert H. Shriver III to be Deputy Director, Office of Personnel Management (roll call vote: 9-2); and\n\nRichard L. Revesz to be Administrator, Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs, Office of Management and Budget (roll call vote: 9-2).\n\nPostal Naming Bill:\n\nH.R. 3175, to designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 135 Main Street in Biloxi, Mississippi, as the \u201cRobert S. McKeithen Post Office Building.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:24:37Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-and-stabenow-bill-to-name-baraga-county-post-office-after-first-woman-elected-to-the-michigan-house-of-representatives-heads-to-president-to-be-signed-into-law", "Peters & Stabenow Bill to Name Baraga County Post Office After First Woman Elected to the Michigan House of Representatives Heads to President to be Signed into Law", "2022-11-15", "2022", "2022-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Legislation authored by U.S. Senators Gary Peters (MI), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, and Debbie Stabenow (MI) to designate the post office located at 404 US-41 North in Baraga County, Michigan as the \u201cCora Reynolds Anderson Post Office,\u201d has passed the House. Cora Reynolds Anderson, a member of the Ojibwa tribe, was the first woman elected to the Michigan House of Representatives and represented parts of Baraga County. She was also the first Native American woman elected to serve in any state legislature. The legislation, which passed the Senate in September, now heads to the President\u2019s desk to be signed into law.\n\n\u201cCora Reynolds Anderson was a dedicated public servant, educator, and advocate who improved lives all across the Upper Peninsula,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cThis legislation will help honor her legacy as a barrier-breaking leader for Michigan and the first Native American woman to serve in any state legislature.\u201d\n\n\u201cCora Reynolds Anderson is such an important part of Michigan\u2019s history. As the first woman elected to the Michigan House of Representatives \u2013 and the first Native American woman to serve in any state legislature \u2013 she paved the way for so many women, including me, to hold public office. Naming this post office in the county she represented after her is one special way that Michiganders can honor and remember her for generations to come,\u201d said Senator Stabenow.\n\nPhotograph of Cora Reynolds Anderson as published in the Mining Journal.\n\nCora Reynolds Anderson was born in L\u2019Anse, Michigan in 1882. She was first elected to the Michigan House of Representatives in 1925 where she represented Baraga, Iron, Keweenaw, and Ontonagon Counties. While serving in Michigan\u2019s Legislature, she chaired the Industrial Home for Girls Committee and served on the Committees for Agriculture, Insurance, and the Northern State Normal School. Her work included fighting to recognize Native American fishing rights and combatting the alcoholism and tuberculosis epidemics. In 2001, she was inducted into the Michigan Women\u2019s Hall of Fame for her contributions to society.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:24:37Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-celebrates-one-year-of-progress-for-michigan-thanks-to-bipartisan-infrastructure-law", "Peters Celebrates One Year of Progress for Michigan Thanks to Bipartisan Infrastructure Law", "2022-11-15", "2022", "2022-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) released the following statement celebrating one year of progress thanks to the bipartisan infrastructure law that he helped enact into law:\n\n\u201cOne year later, the bipartisan infrastructure law is delivering big-time for Michigan\u2019s economy, families and communities. This landmark legislation not only supports good-paying jobs but is making urgently needed investments across our state to repair our crumbling roads, bridges, and highways, expand access to high-speed internet, and ensure communities will have resources to build infrastructure that is more resilient and can withstand extreme weather like flooding, rising water levels, and shoreline erosion. As we continue implementing this law, I\u2019ll work to make sure Michiganders see the results of these investments in their everyday lives.\u201d\n\nThe Infrastructure Investments and Jobs Act \u2013 or bipartisan infrastructure law \u2013 is benefitting Michigan with investments to:\n\nUPGRADE OUR ROADS, BRIDGES & HIGHWAYS: In Michigan, roughly 1,219 bridges and over 7,300 miles of highway are in \u201cpoor condition.\u201d On average, that translates to drivers in Michigan paying $644 annually in costs due to driving on roads in need of repair. Thanks to the bipartisan infrastructure law, $3.2 billion has already been announced for roads, bridges, roadway safety, and major projects in Michigan. In the coming years, it\u2019s estimated Michigan will receive a total of $7.3 billion for federal-aid highway programs and $563 million for bridge replacement and repairs.\n\nREDUCE THE RISK OF NATURAL DISASTERS THROUGH FUNDING OF PETERS\u2019 STORM ACT: Peters authored into law the Safeguarding Tomorrow through Ongoing Risk Mitigation (STORM) Act to create a new program that will be used by local communities in Michigan and across the nation to carry out mitigation projects that reduce natural disaster risk, including extreme flooding, shoreline erosion and rising water levels. Peters secured $500 million for the program to provide low-interest loans to local communities for disaster mitigation projects. Earlier this year, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) announced that states will soon be able to apply for grants to mitigate the threats that have put homes, small businesses, property, and communities in Michigan at risk, and caused millions of dollars in damages.\n\nEXPAND HIGH-SPEED INTERNET ACCESS: Michigan received robust funding through the law to provide high-speed internet coverage to hundreds of thousands of Michiganders who lacked access at the time of the bill\u2019s signing. Today, an estimated 513,000 households across the state are receiving affordable internet through the Affordable Connectivity Program and families can check their eligibility and sign up at GetInternet.gov.\n\nDELIVER CLEAN DRINKING WATER: The law is making significant investments for clean drinking water and water infrastructure, including funding to replace lead service lines and address PFAS contamination \u2013 which continues to threaten Michigan communities, families, first responders, and the Great Lakes.\n\nINVEST IN ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING STATIONS: Michigan has received nearly $40 million to build out EV charging infrastructure and is set to receive more investments in the next four years. Michigan also has the opportunity to apply for grant funding dedicated to EV charging. These resources will not only help accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles but support domestic manufacturers and ensure Michigan remains at the forefront of innovation and economically competitive, while also deploying the next-generation of electric vehicles.\n\nPROTECT THE GREAT LAKES: The bipartisan infrastructure law provided the largest-ever investment in the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) \u2013 which will help accelerate the cleanup and restoration of nine high-priority areas in Michigan whose lakes, rivers and watersheds flow into our Great Lakes.\n\nSUPPORT AMERICAN WORKERS AND MANUFACTURERS: The bipartisan infrastructure law included a provision championed by Peters to strengthen Buy American requirements and ensure the federal government is spending taxpayer dollars on American-made products that support American companies and workers, and create American jobs. The legislation also requires domestically produced materials to be used for federal infrastructure projects, promotes domestic production of personal protective equipment, directs the creation of a BuyAmerican.gov website, and creates a Made in America Office in the White House. Finally, the bill strengthens the Manufacturing Extension Partnership to boost opportunities for small- and medium-sized businesses to sell products to federal agencies.\n\nIMPROVE AIRPORT FACILITIES AND MICHIGANDERS\u2019 FLYING EXPERIENCE: Over the past year alone, the bipartisan infrastructure law has provided more than $135 million dollars to airports across Michigan to improve infrastructure, sustainability, safety and customer experience. This law will work for years to come to build on Michigan airports\u2019 $22 billion in annual economic output in our state.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:24:37Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-homeland-security-and-governmental-affairs-committee-to-consider-nominees-and-postal-naming-legislation", "Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee to Consider Nominees & Postal Naming Legislation", "2022-11-15", "2022", "2022-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI) and Rob Portman (R-OH), Chairman and Ranking Member of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, announced the committee will hold a business meeting on Wednesday, November 16, 2022 at 4:15 PM to consider nominations and postal naming legislation pending before the committee. A tentative agenda is below:\n\nNominations:\n\nRobert H. Shriver III to be Deputy Director, Office of Personnel Management; and\n\nRichard L. Revesz to be Administrator, Office of Information and Regulatory Affairs, Office of Management and Budget.\n\nPostal Naming Bill:\n\nH.R. 3175, to designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 135 Main Street in Biloxi, Mississippi, as the \u201cRobert S. McKeithen Post Office Building.\u201d\n\nWHEN: Wednesday, November 16, 2022\n\nWHERE: Livestream\n\nTIME: 4:15 PM\n\nFor coverage information, please contact the appropriate gallery:\n\nSenate Print Gallery: 202-224-0241\n\nSenate Radio/TV Gallery: 202-224-6421\n\nSenate Periodicals Gallery: periodicals@saa.senate.gov\n\nSenate Photographers\u2019 Gallery: 202-224-6548\n\nFor more information or to watch a live stream of the meeting, please click here.\n\n(Note: Please refresh the meeting web page at the scheduled start time. Streaming will start once the meeting begins.)\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:24:37Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/homeland-security-and-governmental-affairs-committee-to-convene-annual-hearing-examining-homeland-security-threats", "Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee to Convene Annual Hearing Examining Homeland Security Threats", "2022-11-14", "2022", "2022-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI) and Rob Portman (R-OH), Chairman and Ranking Member of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, announced they will hold the committee\u2019s annual \u201cThreats to the Homeland\u201d hearing on Thursday, November 17, 2022 at 10:15 AM.\n\nThe committee will hear testimony from Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas, Federal Bureau of Investigation Director Christopher Wray, and National Counterterrorism Center Director Christine Abizaid about evolving and persistent threats to homeland security, including foreign and domestic terrorism, cyber-attacks, and severe natural disasters. Lawmakers will also discuss what resources and authorities federal agencies need to secure our Northern and Southern borders and counter potential attacks from weapons of mass destruction and drones.\n\nWHEN: Thursday, November 17, 2022\n\nWHERE: LIVESTREAM\n\nTIME: 10:15 AM\n\nFor coverage information, please contact the appropriate gallery:\n\nSenate Print Gallery: 202-224-0241\n\nSenate Radio/TV Gallery: 202-224-6421\n\nSenate Periodicals Gallery: periodicals@saa.senate.gov\n\nSenate Photographers\u2019 Gallery: 202-224-6548\n\nFor more information or to watch a live stream of the hearing, please clickhere.\n\n(Note: Please refresh the hearing web page at the scheduled start time. Streaming will start once the hearing begins.)\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:24:37Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/gao-report-requested-by-peters-shows-tsa-must-take-more-action-to-address-potential-for-discrimination-in-airport-screenings", "GAO Report Requested by Peters Shows TSA Must Take More Action to Address Potential for Discrimination in Airport Screenings", "2022-11-10", "2022", "2022-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "DETROIT, MI \u2013 The Government Accountability Office (GAO) released a report requested by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, on how the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) can eliminate the potential for discrimination in travel screenings. Peters originally requested the report in 2020 after Michiganders, including members of the Arab American and Muslim American communities, shared reports of persistent and potentially discriminatory enhanced screening practices. The report found that while TSA has taken steps to address this issue, the agency must improve the collection and tracking of data on incidents of potential discrimination during secondary travel screenings at airports, as well as improve information about how to file complaints. This will help inform training, procedures, and other efforts to prevent these intrusive and often unnecessary secondary screening processes. The report also found that TSA must implement a better system to track, monitor and address complaints of discrimination from travelers.\n\n\u201cCommunities in Michigan \u2013 including our Arab and Muslim American communities \u2013 continue to face lengthy and intrusive screening when traveling. This report shows that while TSA is making progress, they must step up their efforts to prevent potential discriminatory screening practices that can affect families, businesses, and even people\u2019s ability to enjoy their family vacations,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cThe recommendations provided by this report will help me continue to hold TSA accountable, and support their efforts to secure our transportation system while upholding the civil rights and liberties of all travelers.\u201d\n\nRead the report here.\n\nPeters has led efforts to ensure that all people, regardless of race or ethnicity, receive equal treatment in the travel screening process. At a hearing with the TSA Administrator, Peters raised concerns he has heard from communities in Michigan about challenges they continue to face during the travel screening process. Peters hosted Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas in Metro Detroit to meet with leaders from Michigan\u2019s Arab and Muslim American communities to discuss travel screening and other civil rights issues. Following that meeting, Customs and Border Protection established a new position to serve as a community relations liaison between the agency and Michigan\u2019s Arab and Muslim American communities.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:24:37Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/video-peters-honors-veterans-day", "VIDEO: Peters Honors Veterans Day", "2022-11-10", "2022", "2022-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "DETROIT, MI \u2013 U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI), a former Lieutenant Commander in the U.S. Navy Reserve and a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released a video ahead of Veterans Day.\n\n\u201cFrom the beginning of our nation\u2019s history, generations of Michiganders and Americans have answered the call to serve our country,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cVeterans Day is an opportunity to recognize this remarkable patriotism and selflessness\u2026 and while we can never fully repay the enormous debt that we owe our veterans and their families, we have a responsibility to ensure that they have our utmost support upon leaving the service.\u201d\n\nClick here for video of Senator Peters\u2019 remarks. Below is the text as delivered:\n\n\u201cFrom the beginning of our nation\u2019s history \u2013 generations of Michiganders and Americans have answered the call to serve our country.\n\n\u201cVeterans Day is an opportunity to recognize this remarkable patriotism and selflessness \u2013 and honor the dedication of our soldiers, sailors, airmen, and Marines and all servicemembers \u2013 especially those who made the ultimate sacrifice to defend our freedoms and values as Americans.\n\n\u201cAnd while we can never fully repay the enormous debt that we owe our veterans and their families, we have a responsibility to ensure that they have our utmost support upon leaving the service. Veterans represent the very best of our nation, and our military is the strongest in the history of the world because of their efforts and their dedication.\n\n\u201cAnd that\u2019s why I remain committed to ensuring veterans have access to the benefits, health care, and quality services that they\u2019ve earned: whether it\u2019s receiving the VA benefits that they have earned, or critical care for the invisible wounds of war like PTSD or TBI, or illnesses caused by exposure to toxic substances like burn pits and Agent Orange.\n\n\u201cMy forefathers fought alongside George Washington in the American Revolutionary War. They fought with the Union Army in the Civil War. My father is a veteran of World War II, and I was proud to serve in the U.S. Navy Reserve, where I rose to the rank of Lieutenant Commander. Supporting our nation\u2019s veterans is personal to me, so from the bottom of my heart: thank you for your service and for your sacrifice.\n\n\u201cGod bless you, God bless all of those currently serving and God bless the United States of America.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:24:37Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/wednesday-at-1000am-office-of-us-senator-gary-peters-to-host-veterans-history-project-event-in-traverse-city", "WEDNESDAY AT 10:00AM: Office of U.S. Senator Gary Peters to Host Veterans History Project Event in Traverse City", "2022-11-04", "2022", "2022-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "TRAVERSE CITY, MI \u2013 The Office of U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) will host a Veterans History Project event Wednesday, November 9th from 10:00AM-4:00PM at the Grand Traverse County Department of Veterans Affairs. The Veterans History Project (VHP) of the Library of Congress American Folklife Center collects, preserves and makes accessible to the American public a national archive featuring the firsthand interviews and narratives of United States military veterans from World War I through the present \u2013 along with the stories of Gold Star families.\n\nThrough the work of Veterans History Project volunteers, the recorded interviews, memoirs and other documents from Michigan veterans will be submitted to the Library of Congress. These stories allow future generations to hear directly from veterans to learn about their stories of service and sacrifice and better understand the realities of war.\n\nVeterans interested in participating in the November 9th Veterans History Project event with Senator Peters\u2019 office should register by clicking here.\n\n\u201cOur nation\u2019s veterans have protected our freedoms, families, and values as Americans. We owe it to them to ensure their stories and experiences live on, which is why I encourage local veterans and Gold Star families to participate in the Veterans History Project by sharing their stories,\u201d said Senator Peters.\n\nPeters, who currently serves on the Senate Armed Services Committee, volunteered for the U.S. Navy Reserve at age 34, where he earned a Seabee Combat Warfare Specialist designation and rose to the rank of Lieutenant Commander. After the September 11th terrorist attacks on our country, he volunteered again for drilling status and served overseas as part of his Reserve duty. Peters is the son of a World War II veteran.\n\nWHO: Office of U.S. Senator Gary Peters\n\nWHAT: Veterans History Project\n\nWHEN: Wednesday, November 9th\n\n10:00AM \u2013 4:00PM\n\nWHERE: Grand Traverse County Department of Veterans Affairs\n\n2650 Lafranier Road\n\nTraverse City, MI 49686\n\nVeterans can register to participate and share their stories of service by clicking here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:24:37Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/icymi-peters-meets-with-veterans-across-michigan-to-discuss-new-va-benefits-health-care-available-to-toxic-exposed-veterans", "ICYMI: Peters Meets with Veterans Across Michigan to Discuss New VA Benefits, Health Care Available to Toxic-Exposed Veterans", "2022-11-01", "2022", "2022-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "DETROIT, MI \u2013 U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) met with local veterans in Flint, Grand Rapids, and Traverse City last week to discuss new VA benefits now available to veterans who were exposed to burn pits and other toxic chemicals during their service. Peters helped enact into law the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act, which delivered VA health care and benefits to all generations of toxic-exposed veterans \u2013 and their survivors \u2013 for the first time in our nation\u2019s history. Peters was joined by local leaders in veteran services \u2013 as well as local veterans who were personally impacted by toxic-exposure during their service \u2013 to raise awareness that veterans can now apply for PACT Act-related benefits by filing a claim through the Veterans Administration (VA).\n\nTo file claims in order to apply for PACT Act-related benefits, veterans should call the Veterans Administration (VA) at 800-698-2411 or file a claim online for disability benefits and/or VA health care. For more information about the PACT Act, click here.\n\nWXMI FOX 17 Grand Rapids: Senator Gary Peters Visits Grand Rapids to Highlight Benefits Available Under the PACT Act\n\nAnchor: U.S. Senator Gary Peters was in Grand Rapids today to highlight new benefits for veterans available under the PACT Act. Peters stopped by the American Legion Hall off-of Park Street this morning. Now the PACT Act, which was signed by President Biden back in August, supports veterans exposed to burn pits and other toxic chemicals during their time in the service. Peters helped pass this bipartisan legislation that he says was long overdue.\n\nSenator Peters: The American people need to constantly stand behind you, not just when you're overseas or wherever you may be serving for your country, but when you come home, that we continue to have your back.\n\nAnchor: Peters added that he wants everyone to help spread the word that this application process is now open. Veterans can learn more about how to apply at VA.gov.\n\nWPBN NBC 7 Traverse City: Senator Peters Promotes Veterans Health Care PACT Act\n\nAnchor: Senator Gary Peters visited a Grand Traverse County American Legion Post to bring attention to a new bill that could benefit veterans. The Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics or PACT Act provides health care and benefits to those who've been exposed to toxic chemicals or burn pits during their service.\n\nSenator Peters: I want to just stress as important as this act is, and as good as I believe that it is, it's only good if people actually take advantage of it. So, please, check it out. If you know a veteran or someone in your family or others who have veterans in their families, please spread the word.\n\nAnchor: Now anyone who's served in Afghanistan, Iraq, or Vietnam, and has been exposed to any toxic chemicals, is able to apply for those benefits.\n\nMLive / Flint Journal: New law gives VA benefits to veterans exposed to toxins, Peters and Kildee say\n\n\u201cMichigan Sen. Gary Peters and U.S. Rep. Dan Kildee today held a news conference at the Flint Public Library to raise awareness about the PACT Act, an expansion of VA health care benefits.\u201d\n\n\u201c\u2018This legislation is going to impact lives in a very positive way. Over 3.5 million veterans in the United States (qualify). It\u2019s a significant step forward to dealing with this issue,\u2019 Peters said.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis law will also expedite the VA claims process by automatically presuming conditions are caused by service rather than giving veterans the burden of proving that.\u201d\n\nWWMT CBS 3 Grand Rapids: Senator Gary Peters Highlights the \u201cPACT Act\u201d\n\nAnchor: Senator Gary Peters is highlighting new benefits for Michigan veterans who were exposed to burn pits and toxic chemicals during their service. Peters visited Grand Rapids today to highlight the new PACT Act, which stands for the Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics. Peters says for the first time in history, veterans across the country can now apply for benefits. This includes all generations of toxic-exposed veterans and their survivors.\n\nSenator Peters: The PACT Act, we've been working it on for some time. But we're just so happy that it is now passed, signed into law, and is a reality for veterans. We expect up to three-and-a-half million veterans across the country will now qualify for benefits that they have earned and deserve.\n\nAnchor: Veterans can now file claims to apply for PACT Act-related benefits by calling the number you see on your screen right now\u2026 Peters says the VA will begin processing benefits in January.\n\nWEYI NBC 25 Flint / Mid-Michigan NOW: Peters Highlights the \u201cPACT Act\u201d\n\nAnchor: Senator Gary Peters and Congressman Dan Kildee, along with local veterans, talked about new VA benefits available to veterans who were exposed to burn pits and other toxic chemicals during their service. Veterans in Michigan and across the country can now apply for benefits through the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring Our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics or PACT Act. Kevin Hensley with the Michigan chapter of Burn Pits 360 said this is a big win for veterans.\n\nLocal Veteran Kevin Hensley, Founder of Burn Pits 360 Michigan Chapter: We were told that we needed to go out and get systemic momentum. And now we have the systemic momentum of the veterans community. And what it means for veterans is that they finally get the opportunity to file those claims and get those benefits.\n\nWZZM ABC 13 GRAND RAPIDS: Senator Gary Peters on the PACT Act\n\nAnchor: Today, Senator Gary Peters stopped by the Boat and Canoe Club in Grand Rapids to highlight new VA benefits. The PACT Act was pushed through bipartisan legislation to help veterans who had toxic exposure in the Gulf War. Additionally, 23 other health conditions will also be covered under the PACT such as asthma, various cancers, chronic bronchitis, and more. In the meeting, Senator Peters emphasized that this is the most significant expansion of veteran benefits in history.\n\n[\u2026]\n\nSenator Peters: One of the main features of the act is to allow veterans from Iraq and Afghanistan who were exposed to toxic fumes from burn pits to have the ability to get benefits to deal with the ailments associated with that.\n\nWWTV CBS 9&10 Traverse City: Senator Peters Visits Traverse City, Highlights New Benefits for Veterans\n\nAnchor: New benefits are on the way to veterans and their families. Senator Gary Peters was at the American Legion Post 35 in Traverse City today highlighting the new law that will give VA health care and benefits to veterans exposed to burn pits and toxic chemicals during their service.\n\n[\u2026]\n\nSenator Peters: This piece of legislation that has now passed and has been signed into law is perhaps one of the most significant veterans benefits bill to pass in several decades.\n\n[\u2026]\n\nCharlevoix County Director of Veteran Affairs Joshua Galle: Thank you, Senator Peters, as well as other elected leaders, that have stood strong in passing this bill. For me it feels like forever, 14 years.\n\n[\u2026]\n\nSenator Peters: The other part of this legislation that I think is so important is the fact that we are putting additional resources into the Veterans Administration to streamline the application process, the claims process.\n\n[\u2026]\n\nReporter: The mother of a local veteran who served in Afghanistan and was exposed to toxic chemicals spoke at today's event. In June, doctors found a tumor in her son's brain which has resulted in high medical bills and forced him out of work.\n\nLori Florip: This is why the PACT Act becoming law was so important because it will ensure all veterans exposed to the toxic substances can receive not only medical care through the VA, but also critical disability benefits needed by many veterans, like my son, who can no longer work.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:24:37Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-stabenow-announce-165-million-in-federal-funding-to-increase-access-to-capital-and-spur-economic-growth-in-michigan", "Peters, Stabenow Announce $165 Million in Federal Funding to Increase Access to Capital and Spur Economic Growth in Michigan", "2022-10-31", "2022", "2022-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "DETROIT, MI \u2013 U.S. Senators Gary Peters (MI) and Debbie Stabenow (MI) today announced $165 million in federal funding to spur investment and economic growth in low-income and rural communities in Michigan. Michigan Community Capital in Lansing will receive $60 million, Cinnaire New Markets in Lansing will receive $55 million, and Invest Detroit will receive $50 million. The funding is provided by the U.S. Department of Treasury\u2019s Community Development Financial Institutions Fund (CDFI Fund) and New Market Tax Credit (NMTC) program.\n\n\u201cThese resources are an investment in Michigan and our future, and I\u2019m proud to support the programs that have provided this funding \u2013 which are proven to be successful job creators and economic drivers,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cWe need to continue to invest in communities across our state and make sure all Michiganders have the tools they need to succeed no matter where they live.\u201d\n\n\u201cSuccessful public-private partnerships like these help boost economic development in cities and small towns across our state,\u201d said Senator Stabenow, a senior member of the Senate Finance Committee. \u201cThese investments will help our businesses create jobs and support community development.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe are continuing our mission to make high-impact investments in underserved communities in Michigan. From Agri-business and manufacturing to supporting rural downtown redevelopment and providing job opportunities for disadvantaged people, the New Market Tax Credit is an incredibly important federal tool. Senators Gary Peters and Debbie Stabenow have been long-time vocal advocates for this and many other tools that collectively have made a huge difference in all our lives.\u201d said Eric Hanna, President and CEO of Michigan Community Capital.\n\n\u201cThe New Markets Tax Credit has proven to be one of the most successful models for a public-private partnership, driving capital to America\u2019s most disinvested neighborhoods,\u201d said Mark McDaniel, Cinnaire President and CEO. \u201cWe are grateful to receive this award so we can continue our focus on projects that support education, including early childhood, school-age children and adults seeking vocation training opportunities. We also plan to support projects that create job opportunities for individuals without a college degree or other barriers to obtaining employment. We are grateful to Senators Peters and Stabenow, and other members of the Michigan Congressional delegation, for their steadfast support of the New Markets program and helping us access these important resources. We look forward to partnering with and providing NMTC allocation to projects that will help all people have access to the tools and opportunities they need to succeed.\u201d\n\n\u201cSenators Peters and Stabenow have been strong and consistent champions for the New Markets Tax Credit program for many years. Their advocacy for NMTC directly supports our ability to invest in Detroit neighborhoods and Detroit developers of color, which has created high-quality new jobs throughout Southeast Michigan. We want to thank Senator Peters and Senator Stabenow for their support of Invest Detroit, the city of Detroit, and all of Michigan,\u201d said Marcia Ventura, Senior Vice President, Lending, Invest Detroit.\n\nHistorically, New Market Tax Credit Program awards have generated $8 of private investment for every $1 invested by the federal government. Through the end of fiscal year 2021, the program award recipients deployed more than $62.9 billion in investments in low-income communities and businesses; with impacts such as the creation or retention of more than 857,000 jobs, and the construction or rehabilitation of nearly 239 million square feet of commercial real estate.\n\nSenators Peters and Stabenow have been long-time supporters of these programs and will continue to advocate for Michigan communities to receive these funds. More information about these awards can be found at: www.cdfifund.gov/nmtc.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:20:33Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-stabenow-announce-16-million-in-federal-funding-for-detroit/wayne-county-port-authority", "Peters, Stabenow Announce $16 Million in Federal Funding for Detroit/Wayne County Port Authority", "2022-10-28", "2022", "2022-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "DETROIT, MI \u2013 U.S. Senators Gary Peters (MI) and Debbie Stabenow (MI) today announced that the Detroit/Wayne County Port Authority has been awarded $16,030,000 through the Port Infrastructure Development Program from the United States Maritime Administration (MARAD), an agency of the U.S. Department of Transportation.\n\n\u201cThis funding will be essential in helping the Port play a greater role in our maritime transportation system and ensuring efficient travel, trade and transporting of goods,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cOur Great Lakes ports like the Port of Detroit are critical to our economy and help to strengthen our nation\u2019s supply chain \u2013 and this investment in the Detroit/Wayne County Port Authority will help increase the Port\u2019s economic impact and support good-paying jobs.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Port of Detroit plays an essential role in supporting trade and commerce in our state. Millions of tons of cargo pass through the port, as well as the commodities that supply our manufacturers, build our roads and strengthen our supply chains. This funding is a critical investment in our maritime infrastructure that will boost Michigan\u2019s economy and create new jobs in the years to come,\u201d said Senator Stabenow.\n\nThe project will rehabilitate existing port infrastructure and construct new port infrastructure. It includes creating a new port/rail connection; adding dry bulk cargo handling platforms and a covered warehouse; reconstructing a dock; installing 2 bulk-liquid storage tanks; and constructing an additional berth to facilitate fueling of cargo vessels.\n\nPeters has been a strong advocate for increased funding for Michigan\u2019s ports. During negotiations for the bipartisan infrastructure law, Peters pushed for and succeeded in securing increased investments for the Port Infrastructure Development Program to fund port infrastructure needed to improve freight mobility, address port congestion, and improve port competitiveness. Peters serves on the U.S. Senate Commerce Committee and chairs the Commerce Subcommittee on Surface Transportation, Maritime, Freight, and Ports.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:20:33Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/photos-peters-highlights-new-va-benefits-available-for-toxic-exposed-veterans-in-traverse-city", "PHOTOS: Peters Highlights New VA Benefits Available for Toxic-Exposed Veterans in Traverse City", "2022-10-28", "2022", "2022-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "TRAVERSE CITY, MI \u2013 U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) joined local leaders in veteran services at the American Legion Post 35 in Traverse City today to highlight the new VA benefits now available to veterans who were exposed to burn pits and other toxic chemicals during their service. Peters helped enact into law the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act \u2013 which delivered VA health care and benefits to all generations of toxic-exposed veterans \u2013 and their survivors \u2013 for the first time in our nation\u2019s history. Peters was also joined by the mother of a local U.S. Marine Corps veteran who was diagnosed with a form of brain cancer in June as a result of his exposure to toxic substances while serving in Afghanistan.\n\n\u201cMany of our nation\u2019s heroes are suffering as a result of being exposed to harmful substances like Agent Orange or toxic burn pits during their service,\u201d said Senator Peters, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and former Lieutenant Commander in the U.S. Navy Reserve. \u201cI was proud to help pass the Honoring Our PACT Act into law to finally ensure these veterans, along with their survivors, can obtain their long-overdue health care and benefits through the VA \u2013 and I\u2019m pleased to highlight veterans can now apply to receive those benefits by visiting the VA\u2019s website today.\u201d\n\n\u201cWhile serving in Afghanistan \u2013 like many other post-9/11 veterans \u2013 my son Erik was exposed to toxic smoke radiating from the burn pits on his air base as well as other hazardous materials,\u201d said Lori Florip, mother of local U.S. Marine Corps veteran Sergeant Erik Florip. \u201cAs a result of his exposure to these toxic chemicals, Erik was diagnosed with high-grade Glioblastoma \u2013 or brain cancer \u2013 this past June. The PACT Act becoming law is so important because it will ensure that all veterans exposed to toxic substances can receive not only medical care through the VA, but also the critical disability benefits needed by veterans like my son who can no longer work due to his injury and serious medical challenges. So, thank you Senator Peters for helping to pass this consequential bill into law and for bringing us all together today to share how veterans can now apply for the disability and health care benefits they need.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs Director of the Grand Traverse County VA, I work with and supervise Veteran Service Officers from across Grand Traverse County as well as Leelanau County to ensure they have the best information on-hand regarding VA health care plans, benefits and resources to share with the veterans in their communities,\u201d said Michael Roof, Director of the Grand Traverse County Department of Veterans Affairs. \u201cThanks to Senator Peters\u2019 efforts to help pass this bill into law, we can now get to work on ensuring all veterans in the area and state are aware of the benefits now available to them and work directly with them to process claims under the PACT Act.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs one of the chief Veterans Service Officers for Charlevoix County, I have worked with many veterans who served in the Vietnam War, Gulf Wars, or post-9/11 who were exposed to toxic substances overseas and are now in need of critical medical care,\u201d said Joshua Galle, Director of the Charlevoix County Department of Veterans Affairs and Accredited Veterans Service Officer (VSO). \u201cNow through the PACT Act, folks in my profession can more effectively do our jobs of ensuring every veteran can access the benefits and health care they need. I\u2019m grateful to Senator Peters for his leadership in helping pass this bill into law \u2013 and encourage all veterans who need this care to contact your local VA and get your claim started.\u201d\n\nVeterans can now file claims to apply for PACT Act-related benefits by calling the Veterans Administration (VA) at 800-698-2411 or filing a claim online for disability benefits and/or VA health care. For more information about the PACT Act, click here.\n\nSenator Peters, local leaders in veteran services, and mother of local U.S. Marine Corps veteran Sergeant Erik Florip highlight new VA health care, benefits now available to all generations of toxic-exposed veterans at American Legion in Traverse City.\n\nPeters is a strong advocate for Michigan\u2019s servicemembers and veterans. Last year, Peters was inducted into the Michigan Military and Veterans Hall of Honor for his efforts to support our nation\u2019s veterans and military. In 2017, Peters was recognized as Legislator of the Year by the Vietnam Veterans of America for authoring the bipartisan Fairness for Veterans Act, which was signed into law. The legislation requires veteran discharge review boards to give liberal consideration to petitions for honorable discharge status if the servicemember has been diagnosed with PTSD, TBI or other related conditions connected to their military service. As of the fall of 2020, more than 1,500 veterans have had their discharges upgraded since his legislation was enacted.\n\nPeters also introduced bipartisan legislation to protect veterans exposed to toxic chemicals during their service. The Burn Pits Accountability Act would require that servicemembers be assessed for exposure to open toxic burn pits as part of their routine health exams, as this exposure has been known to lead to cancer, cardiovascular toxicity, reproductive issues and neurological damage for numerous Afghanistan and Iraq War veterans.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:20:33Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-announces-11-million-in-federal-funding-for-port-of-monroe", "Peters Announces $11 Million in Federal Funding for Port of Monroe", "2022-10-27", "2022", "2022-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "DETROIT, MI \u2013 U.S. Senator Gary Peters today announced that the Port of Monroe has been awarded $11,051,586 through the Port Infrastructure Development Program, funding that will be critical for strengthening and expanding the Port\u2019s capabilities. The grant was awarded by the United States Maritime Administration (MARAD), an agency of the U.S. Department of Transportation. Peters supported the Port\u2019s application for this federal funding.\n\n\u201cThe Port of Monroe is not only a critical resource for manufacturers in Michigan and across the Great Lakes region, but it also plays a crucial role in ensuring efficient trade and transport of products that families and businesses rely on every day,\u201d said Senator Peters, Chairman of the Commerce Subcommittee Surface Transportation, Maritime, Freight, and Ports. \u201cI was pleased to support the Port\u2019s effort to secure this funding, which will expand cargo capacity, increase economic activity for the region and strengthen supply chains. I\u2019ll keep fighting to make sure the Port is treated fairly, has the resources necessary to compete on a level playing field and reaches its full potential.\u201d\n\n\u201cThere are but a few rare moments in a Port\u2019s history which can be considered monumental. This grant award represents the single largest investment in the Port of Monroe\u2019s infrastructure since the organization\u2019s creation in 1932 and will have profound effects on the sustainability and enhancement of our maritime infrastructure which supports the Port of Monroe\u2019s continued growth as a regional hub for both domestic and international renewable energy cargoes,\u201d said Paul LaMarre, Port Director of the Port of Monroe. \u201cSenator Peters is the Port of Monroe\u2019s champion. His unequivocal support for the Great Lakes maritime industry and Michigan\u2019s role as the \u2018Great Lakes State\u2019 is second to none. His support of this grant and our continued efforts is humbly appreciated and will have far reaching effects on our Port\u2019s future.\u201d\n\nThe Port of Monroe Project award will go toward its Lake Erie Renewable Energy Resilience Project, funding four components: riverfront work, turning basin work, maritime readiness slip construction and shore power infrastructure.\n\nComponent 1\u2014Riverfront work will include replacing the surface of the existing wharf, constructing a second riverfront wharf to be used exclusively for vessel transfer of wind energy cargos, and reinforcing shoreline stabilization;\n\nComponent 2\u2014Turning Basin work will include rehabilitating the concrete dock cap, bollard and fender installation, and replacing roughly 390 feet of failed sheet pile;\n\nComponent 3\u2014Small Boat \u201cMaritime Readiness Slip\u201d construction will include demolishing and rehabilitating an existing small boat slip to be used by harbor assist vessels; and\n\nComponent 4\u2014Shore Power infrastructure will include removing existing overhead lines and providing shore power to the riverfront wharves.\n\nPeters has been a strong advocate for increased funding for Michigan\u2019s ports. During negotiations for the bipartisan infrastructure law, Peters pushed for and succeeded in securing increased investments for the Port Infrastructure Development Program to fund port infrastructure needed to improve freight mobility, address port congestion, and improve port competitiveness.\n\nAs Chairman of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, Peters has supported funding for the Port Security Grant Program and has fought to support Michigan\u2019s ports, especially the Port of Monroe, and ensure they receive fair treatment. Last year, he announced the Port of Monroe received a $770,983 federal grant to help upgrade cargo screening infrastructure and previously helped secure a $1.1 million federal grant for the Port to expand its maritime commerce operations. A bipartisan measure coauthored by Peters was signed into law requiring federal officials to assess all ports of entry, including finding ways to reduce wait times for passengers and cargo at the border. Peters has also repeatedly pressed U.S. Customs and Border Protection on why the Port of Monroe is being held to standards that are not applied to other ports in the region. He toured the Port of Monroe last year with Customs and Border Protection officials and Port of Monroe leaders to assess current operations and discuss resolving ongoing cargo clearance challenges that impact commerce at the port.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:20:33Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/photos-peters-joins-cisa-director-jen-easterly-and-state-of-michigan-cio-laura-clark-in-novi-to-discuss-efforts-to-bolster-cybersecurity", "PHOTOS: Peters Joins CISA Director Jen Easterly and State of Michigan CIO Laura Clark in Novi to Discuss Efforts to Bolster Cybersecurity", "2022-10-27", "2022", "2022-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "NOVI, MI \u2013 U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI), Chairman of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, participated in a fireside chat during this year\u2019s annual Michigan Cyber Summit with the Director of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), Jen Easterly. The conversation, which was moderated by the State of Michigan\u2019s Chief Information Officer Laura Clark, discussed collaboration between the federal government and state and local governments to combat evolving cybersecurity threats. Peters also discussed the devastating impact that cyber-attacks can have on our daily lives \u2013 including by shutting down essential services and compromising Americans\u2019 sensitive data. The fireside chat also highlighted Peters\u2019 and Director Easterly\u2019s historic efforts to significantly enhance our nation\u2019s ability to combat ongoing cybersecurity threats.\n\n\u201cOur nation continues to face significant cybersecurity threats, and today\u2019s discussion with Director Easterly and CIO Clark was an important opportunity to highlight the need for a comprehensive strategy to strengthen our online defenses. While Michigan continues to be a leader in these efforts, it\u2019s clear that the state and local governments, as well as other organizations across our state need more help from the federal government to protect important networks,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cThat is why I have worked to ensure CISA has more tools and resources to assist state and local governments, critical infrastructure, and K-12 schools who are working to safeguard against cyber-attacks that can shut down essential services and compromise sensitive information. I have been proud to lead some of the most significant reforms to our cybersecurity in our nation\u2019s history, and look forward to working with champions like Director Easterly and Laura Clark to fight back against foreign adversaries and cybercriminals that continue targeting American networks.\u201d\n\n\u201cMy thanks to Senator Peters and Laura Clark for a wonderful discussion today at the Michigan Cyber Summit,\u201d said Director Easterly. \u201cAs the Nation\u2019s Cyber Defense Agency, CISA\u2019s ability to drive down risk to the critical infrastructure Americans rely on every day is dependent on collaborative partnerships. I\u2019m grateful for the work Senator Peters and Laura Clark are doing to strengthen our collective efforts to increase the nation\u2019s cybersecurity.\u201d\n\n\u201cIt was an honor to welcome Sen. Peters and Director Easterly to the Michigan Cyber Summit and provide insights into cybersecurity from a national perspective,\u201d said Laura Clark. \u201cThe action they have taken to provide guidance and resources has been critical in our fight against cybercriminals. Collaboration has proven to be the most effective measure to stay ahead cybercriminals and our relationships with our federal partners are key in keeping Michiganders safe online.\u201d\n\nThe fireside chat also highlighted landmark laws and legislation authored by Peters to bolster our nation\u2019s online defenses. Peters\u2019 historic, bipartisan provision to require critical infrastructure owners and operators to report to CISA if they experience a substantial cyber-attack or if they make a ransomware payment was signed into law. Peters\u2019 bipartisan bill to enhance cybersecurity assistance to K-12 educational institutions across the country was also signed into law. Additionally, Peters secured several provisions in the bipartisan infrastructure law to bolster cybersecurity \u2013 including $100 million in funding to help victims of a serious breach recover quickly. Peters\u2019 bipartisan bills to bolster cybersecurity for state and local governments, strengthen the federal cybersecurity workforce, and help secure federal information technology supply chains have been signed into law.\n\nFollowing the fireside chat, Peters and Easterly also joined high school students from across Michigan who were taking part in the Michigan Governor\u2019s High School Cyber Challenge. The competition highlighted how Michigan is working to build a pipeline of future cybersecurity professionals that are qualified to defend networks from threats for years to come.\n\nTo download high-resolution photos from the visit, click on the images below. Images are courtesy of Senator Peters\u2019 office.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:20:33Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-stabenow-announce-over-54-million-to-buy-new-electric-buses-for-michigans-schools", "Peters, Stabenow Announce Over $54 Million to Buy New Electric Buses for Michigan\u2019s Schools", "2022-10-26", "2022", "2022-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C - U.S. Senators Gary Peters (MI) and Debbie Stabenow (MI) announced today that the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is awarding $54,060,000 to Michigan schools to purchase electric buses. These awards are administered through the EPA\u2019s Clean School Bus Program. This funding comes from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which Peters and Stabenow helped pass in November 2021.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m proud to have supported the bipartisan infrastructure law that is now providing this funding to help replace school buses across Michigan. We need to be working to tackle climate change, improve air quality and protect our children\u2019s health as they ride to school each day, and these low and zero-emission buses are a great step forward,\u201d said Senator Peters.\n\n\u201cElectric school buses will make a big difference for schools across Michigan. This investment will improve air quality while helping our school districts cut their transportation costs and keep more resources in the classroom. It\u2019s a great step to protect the health of our children and save schools money,\u201d said Senator Stabenow.\n\nToday\u2019s awards are a part of the first $1 billion of a five-year, $5 billion program created by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.\n\nEPA\u2019s Clean School Bus Program helps states accelerate the transition to zero emission vehicles, produce cleaner air in and around schools and communities, and save schools money. This program will also drive demand for American-made batteries and vehicles, boost domestic manufacturing, and create good-paying jobs.\n\nThe recipients include:\n\nDearborn City School District \u2013 Dearborn, 18 buses, $7,110,000\n\nYpsilanti Community Schools \u2013 Ypsilanti, 10 buses, $3,950,000\n\nBeecher Community School District \u2013 Flint, 5 buses, $1,525,000\n\nAu Gres-Sims School District \u2013 Au Gres, 1 bus, $395,000\n\nCassopolis Public Schools \u2013 Cassopolis, 3 buses, $1,185,000\n\nHartford Public Schools \u2013 Hartford, 4 buses, $1,580,000\n\nHopkins Public Schools \u2013 Hopkins, 3 buses, $1,185,000\n\nArmada Area Schools \u2013 Armada, 1 bus, $395,000\n\nPontiac City School District \u2013 Pontiac, 25 buses, $9,875,000\n\nHarbor Beach Community Schools - Harbor Beach, 3 buses, $1,185,000\n\nUbly Community Schools \u2013 Ubly, 6 buses, $2,370,000\n\nChesaning Union Schools \u2013 Chesaning, 5 buses, $1,975,000\n\nAlcona Community Schools \u2013 Lincoln, 2 buses, $790,000\n\nMayville Community School District \u2013 Mayville, 2 buses, $790,000\n\nUnionville-Sebewaing Area S.D. \u2013 Sebewaing, 1 bus, $395,000\n\nJackson Public Schools \u2013 Jackson, 21 buses, $ 8,295,000\n\nBritton Deerfield Schools \u2013 Britton, 5 buses, $1,975,000\n\nHomer Community School District \u2013 Homer, 7 buses, $2,765,000\n\nOnsted Community Schools \u2013 Onsted, 3 buses, $1,185,000\n\nSand Creek Community Schools - Sand Creek, 2 buses, $790,000\n\nPentwater Public School District \u2013 Pentwater, 2 buses, $790,000\n\nOjibwe Charter School \u2013 Brimley, 1 bus, $395,000\n\nPellston Public Schools \u2013 Pellston, 4 buses $1,580,000\n\nBessemer Area School District \u2013 Bessemer, 2 buses, $790,000\n\nL'Anse Area Schools - L'Anse, 2 buses, $790,000", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:20:33Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-kildee-highlight-new-va-benefits-available-for-toxic-exposed-veterans-in-flint", "Peters, Kildee Highlight New VA Benefits Available for Toxic-Exposed Veterans in Flint", "2022-10-25", "2022", "2022-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "FLINT, MI \u2013 U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) and Congressman Dan Kildee (MI-5) hosted a press conference in Flint today with local veterans to highlight the new VA benefits now available to veterans who were exposed to burn pits and other toxic chemicals during their service. Peters and Kildee helped enact into law the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act \u2013 which delivered VA health care and benefits to all generations of toxic-exposed veterans \u2013 and their survivors \u2013 for the first time in our nation\u2019s history.\n\n\u201cMany of our nation\u2019s heroes are suffering after being exposed to harmful substances like Agent Orange or toxic burn pits during their service,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cAfter helping enact the historic PACT Act, this was an important opportunity to highlight with Congressman Kildee new VA benefits now available to all generations of toxic-exposed veterans, as well as their survivors.\u201d\n\n\u201cOur servicemembers and military families sacrifice so much to defend our freedoms and keep our country safe. They should not have to fight to get the care they need for illnesses caused by exposure to toxins in the line of duty,\u201d said Congressman Kildee. \u201cThis bipartisan legislation, supported by Republicans and Democrats, creates new benefits for veterans and their families and streamlines the claims process to make accessing health care and survivor benefits easier. In Congress, I will continue to do everything I can to support America\u2019s veterans, servicemembers and military families.\u201d\n\nVeterans and survivors in Michigan and across the country can now apply for benefits Peters and Kildee helped secure through the Honoring Our PACT Act.\n\nCaseworkers from Senator Peters\u2019 and Congressman Kildee\u2019s offices were in attendance to assist in signing up for these new benefits. Toxic-exposed veterans are encouraged to apply for PACT Act-related benefits by calling the Veterans Administration at 800-698-2411 or filing a claim online for disability benefits and/or VA health care. Veterans are encouraged to apply regardless of whether they currently have symptoms. In addition to expanding benefits to toxic-exposed veterans, the new law will streamline and simplify the process of claiming survivor benefits for Michigan families.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:20:33Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/photos-peters-highlights-new-va-benefits-available-for-toxic-exposed-veterans-in-grand-rapids", "PHOTOS: Peters Highlights New VA Benefits Available for Toxic-Exposed Veterans in Grand Rapids", "2022-10-25", "2022", "2022-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "GRAND RAPIDS, MI \u2013 U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) was joined by local veterans at the American Legion Boat and Canoe Club in Grand Rapids today to highlight the new VA benefits now available to veterans who were exposed to burn pits and other toxic chemicals during their service. Peters helped enact into law the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act \u2013 which delivered VA health care and benefits to all generations of toxic-exposed veterans \u2014 and their survivors \u2014 for the first time in our nation\u2019s history. Peters, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, helped pass the bipartisan legislation in the Senate, which was recently signed into law by President Biden.\n\n\u201cMany of our nation\u2019s heroes are suffering as a result of being exposed to harmful substances like Agent Orange or toxic burn pits during their service,\u201d said Senator Peters, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and former Lieutenant Commander in the U.S. Navy Reserve. \u201cI was proud to help pass the Honoring Our PACT Act into law to finally ensure these veterans, along with their survivors, can obtain their long-overdue health care and benefits through the VA \u2013 and I\u2019m pleased to highlight veterans can now apply to receive those benefits by visiting the VA\u2019s website today.\u201d\n\n\u201cThank you, Senator Peters, for bringing everyone together today to talk about this vital piece of legislation that\u2019s going to deliver VA health care and benefits to veterans and their surviving family members across the country, including right here in Grand Rapids,\u201d said Kent County Office of Veteran Services Supervisor Ryan Grams. \u201cAs a U.S. Army veteran \u2013 this fight is personal to me \u2013 and I\u2019m grateful to know that fellow veterans I served with and throughout the state will at long last get the care they deserve.\u201d\n\n\u201cFor veterans like myself, this bill is going to deliver needed benefits by expanding the list of locations officially recognized as being related to Agent Orange exposure \u2013 which now includes Guam, where I served, along with other locations,\u201d said local veteran Mike Blundell. \u201cAnd that\u2019s why Senator Peters bringing us all together here today is so important moving forward. Now that the bill has become law, we must continue to get the word out and encourage impacted veterans to take advantage of this right now by filing a claim \u2013 which is exactly what I plan to do.\u201d\n\n\u201cDuring my time in the service, I was deployed to Iraq where I was exposed to burn pits and toxic chemicals,\u201d said local veteran David Walker. \u201cNow that the PACT Act has become law, post-9/11 veterans like myself who were exposed to burn pits \u2013 along with the survivors of veterans who passed due to health complications like toxic exposure \u2013 can now access the benefits and health care we need. I\u2019m grateful to Senator Peters for his leadership in helping to pass this bill into law \u2013 and encourage all veterans with similar stories to my family to contact the VA and get their claim started.\u201d\n\nVeterans can now file claims to apply for PACT Act-related benefits by calling the Veterans Administration (VA) at 800-698-2411 or filing a claim online for disability benefits and/or VA health care. For more information about the PACT Act, click here.\n\nSenator Peters and local veterans highlight new VA health care, benefits now available to all generations of toxic-exposed veterans at American Legion in Grand Rapids.\n\nPeters is a strong advocate for Michigan\u2019s servicemembers and veterans. Last year, Peters was inducted into the Michigan Military and Veterans Hall of Honor for his efforts to support our nation\u2019s veterans and military. In 2017, Peters was recognized as Legislator of the Year by the Vietnam Veterans of America for authoring the bipartisan Fairness for Veterans Act, which was signed into law. The legislation requires veteran discharge review boards to give liberal consideration to petitions for honorable discharge status if the servicemember has been diagnosed with PTSD, TBI or other related conditions connected to their military service. As of the fall of 2020, more than 1,500 veterans have had their discharges upgraded since his legislation was enacted.\n\nPeters also introduced bipartisan legislation to protect veterans exposed to toxic chemicals during their service. The Burn Pits Accountability Act would require that servicemembers be assessed for exposure to open toxic burn pits as part of their routine health exams, as this exposure has been known to lead to cancer, cardiovascular toxicity, reproductive issues and neurological damage for numerous Afghanistan and Iraq War veterans.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:20:33Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/photos-peters-joins-disaster-response-experts-and-rescue-animals-in-lansing-to-highlight-his-new-law-protecting-animals-when-natural-disasters-strike", "PHOTOS: Peters Joins Disaster Response Experts and Rescue Animals in Lansing to Highlight His New Law Protecting Animals When Natural Disasters Strike", "2022-10-24", "2022", "2022-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "LANSING, MI \u2013 U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, toured the American Red Cross Mid-Michigan Chapter in Lansing to highlight his legislation \u2013 which was recently signed into law \u2013 to help protect animals during and in the aftermath of natural disasters and emergencies. During the visit, Peters was joined by rescue animals and saw facilities critical to the Red Cross\u2019 efforts to help Michigan communities respond to and recover from natural disasters. The visit also highlighted how the Red Cross and Michigan Humane work to shelter, rescue and care for household pets before, during and after extreme weather events. Peters met with members of the Michigan Humane Emergency Animal Rescue team and heard about their recent deployment to Florida where they assisted with animal rescue operations in the wake of Hurricane Ian.\n\n\u201cToday, I heard tragic stories from disaster response and animal welfare professionals on how people in Michigan and across the nation have been harmed because they refused to leave their beloved pets behind and evacuate when disasters strike. No one should have to choose between these beloved animals, which are often considered family members, and getting to safety,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cNow that it\u2019s law, my bipartisan PAW Act will help ensure that every American, as well as first responders and dedicated disaster response and animal rescue workers from organizations like the Red Cross and Michigan Humane are better prepared to keep every member of our family \u2014 even the ones with paws, fur and feathers \u2014 safe amid extreme weather events.\u201d\n\n\u201cMichigan Humane is committed to the health and safety of every animal, including by ensuring that our dedicated Animal Rescue Team is quickly on the ground after natural disasters to rescue cherished pets that may have been harmed,\u201d said Matt Pepper, CEO of Michigan Humane. \u201cNow that the PAW Act has been signed into law, this team can be sure that they have the most up-to-date guidance from FEMA on how to prevent the loss of household pets from natural disasters. By leading this effort, Senator Peters has once again shown his commitment to protecting animals and their families.\u201d\n\n\u201cI was pleased to welcome Senator Peters to our facility in Lansing today to see how the Red Cross is working to protect families \u2013 and beloved animals \u2013 from natural disasters and emergencies,\u201d said Mary Lynn Foster, CEO of the American Red Cross Michigan Region.\n\nDuring the visit, Peters toured the Red Cross\u2019 facilities where they store safety equipment, medical supplies, and other items that help disaster response workers respond to extreme weather events such as severe storms and flooding. The Red Cross can also help direct families toward animal shelters that are able to shelter and care for cherished pets during, before, and after disasters. Peters was also joined by animal welfare professionals from Michigan Humane and their Emergency Animal Rescue team that helps care for thousands of injured animals across Michigan each year, including during and after natural disasters. Peters met with members of the team that recently returned from Florida where they worked to rescue animals that were harmed during Hurricane Ian. Peters was joined by rescue animals during the visit.\n\nThe visit highlighted how Peters\u2019 Planning for Animal Wellness (PAW) Act, which was recently signed into law, would ensure disaster response and animal welfare experts have the most up-to-date expert guidance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) on how to care for and shelter animals during natural disasters. The new law directs the FEMA Administrator to establish an advisory group with outside experts to ensure that current FEMA guidance is aligned with best practices in animal care for disaster preparedness, response, and recovery. President Biden signed the bill into law on Monday, October 17th.\n\nAs Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, Peters has led several efforts to strengthen our federal disaster preparedness and response. Peters secured $500 million in funding as part of the bipartisan infrastructure bill for a program he created to help states establish revolving loan programs for local governments to carry out mitigation projects that reduce the risk of shoreline erosion, extreme flooding, and other natural disasters. His bill to protect FEMA Reservists' jobs during disaster response was signed into law. Peters also convened a hearing with disaster preparedness and response experts to hear how worsening natural disasters, including flooding, severe storms, and wildfires, continue to harm lives and livelihoods in Michigan and across the nation.\n\nTo download high-resolution photos from the visit, click on the images below. Images are courtesy of Senator Peters\u2019 office.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:20:33Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/after-securing-key-federal-funding-for-project-peters-welcomes-the-unveiling-of-plans-for-a-new-cancer-clinic-at-osf-st-francis-hospital-in-escanaba", "After Securing Key Federal Funding for Project, Peters Welcomes the Unveiling of Plans for a New Cancer Clinic at OSF St. Francis Hospital in Escanaba", "2022-10-21", "2022", "2022-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "ESCANABA, MI \u2013 U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) welcomes the unveiling of plans for a new cancer clinic at OSF HealthCare St. Francis Hospital & Medical Group in Escanaba, after helping to secure key federal funding to jumpstart the project. The $1.5 million in funding supported by Peters will allow OSF St. Francis to relocate oncology services from its current location within the hospital\u2019s Medical Office Building to a new larger, separate facility on the hospital campus. The move will provide additional space and enhanced services for patients facing a cancer diagnosis or undergoing cancer treatments \u2013 and result in more access to cancer care for residents.\n\n\u201cSo many families in Michigan and across the country have been affected by cancer. Anyone who has experienced it themselves or watched a loved one undergo treatment knows just how difficult it can be,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cThat\u2019s why I was proud to help secure $1.5 million in federal funding to help make this new facility a reality \u2013 and enable OSF St. Francis to not only expand but enhance services available to patients, and meet its high and growing demand for cancer care in the region.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis clinic is also a prime example of why investing in rural health care across-the-board is so important,\u201d Peters continued. \u201cAs the only hospital within a 50 mile radius, OSF St. Francis plays an essential role in ensuring families and residents throughout the Upper Peninsula can access the care they need \u2013 whether it\u2019s a routine check-up, medical treatment, or a life-saving emergency procedure. I\u2019ll continue working in the U.S. Senate to ensure rural providers in Michigan and across the country have the support and resources they need to continue providing quality, affordable care to those who need it most.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe are very appreciative to Senator Peters for his support and effort to help secure the federal funding needed to help make this facility possible,\u201d said OSF St. Francis Hospital & Medical Group President Kelly Jefferson. \u201cThis project will allow us to provide a heightened level of oncology services for the community that will help our patients not only survive but thrive.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:34:28Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-bill-to-help-improve-federal-workforces-understanding-of-artificial-intelligence-signed-into-law", "Peters Bill to Help Improve Federal Workforce\u2019s Understanding of Artificial Intelligence Signed Into Law", "2022-10-18", "2022", "2022-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Legislation authored by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, that will help bolster the federal workforce\u2019s understanding of artificial intelligence (AI) has been signed into law. The law will create a training program to help federal employees responsible for purchasing and managing AI technologies better understand the capabilities and risks they pose to the American people. It will also help ensure the United States maintains a global leadership role in rapidly developing technologies as foreign competitors like the Chinese government continue to prioritize investments in AI technologies. \u201cIf used improperly, artificial intelligence could present a serious threat to the rights and liberties of Michiganders and people across the country. That is why the federal workforce must better understand how these technologies could impact the safety, security, and freedoms of all Americans,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cNow that this commonsense, bipartisan legislation has been signed into law, federal workers will be better prepared to use this technology in a way that is ethical and consistent with our nation\u2019s values.\u201d\n\nThe National Security Commission on Artificial Intelligence has raised the need to train the federal workforce on AI, especially those who procure and manage these technologies. While there are clear benefits to using AI, experts remain concerned that if used improperly, this technology could harm U.S. citizens and compromise national security. The Artificial Intelligence Training for the Acquisition Workforce Act will help train federal employees who purchase and manage AI technology for government agencies to ensure it is used appropriately.\n\nThis law requires the Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to provide and regularly update an AI training program for federal employees who manage and purchase this technology for the federal government. The training aims to help federal employees better understand the benefits of AI, as well as the ethical and national security risks posed by these technologies. The law also encourages the OMB Director to work with scholars and experts from the public and private sectors to create the training. It will also ensure that OMB is tracking the participation and feedback of participants to identify possible ways to improve the training.\n\nThe law builds on Peters\u2019 efforts to ensure AI is used safely and ethically. His bipartisan legislation to secure and protect information handled by federal contractors using artificial intelligence (AI) technology, such as biometric data from facial recognition scans, has advanced in the Senate. A Peters provision to ensure that the use of AI across the federal government is effective, ethical, and accountable by providing resources and guidance to federal agencies was signed into law as a part of last year\u2019s government funding bill.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:20:33Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-bipartisan-bill-to-protect-pets-and-other-animals-during-and-after-disasters-signed-into-law", "Peters Bipartisan Bill to Protect Pets and Other Animals During and After Disasters Signed Into Law", "2022-10-18", "2022", "2022-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Bipartisan legislation authored by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, to help protect pets and other animals during and in the aftermath of natural disasters and emergencies has been signed into law. The Planning for Animal Wellness (PAW) Act directs the Administrator of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to establish an advisory group with outside experts to ensure that current FEMA guidance is aligned with best practices in animal care for disaster preparedness, response, and recovery.\n\n\u201cNo one should have to risk their lives because they refuse to abandon beloved pets before a natural disaster,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cThis new law will help make sure that FEMA and first responders in Michigan and across the nation can help protect every member of our families \u2013 even the ones with four legs and fur.\u201d\n\nAnimal welfare is often overlooked during disaster response and recovery efforts, and in some instances, individuals have refused to evacuate before natural disasters because they do not want to abandon their pets. Following floods, wildfires, and hurricanes, the loss of household pets can take a significant emotional toll on pet owners, who often consider these animals to be a part of their families. In recent disaster events, FEMA and local emergency managers have relied on voluntary agencies and organizations to assist with both emergency veterinary services and relocation of thousands of evacuated and surrendered animals. While many of these pets and service animals were reunited with their families following the initial disaster, there are hundreds that were not.\n\nThe Planning for Animal Wellness (PAW) Act requires the FEMA Administrator to establish an advisory group to encourage and foster collaborative efforts among individuals and entities working to address the needs of animals in disaster preparedness. The working group will review current best practices and federal guidance on sheltering and evacuation planning for household pets, service and assistance animals, and other animals, as appropriate. If the Administrator, in consultation with the working group, finds that current federal guidance does not meet best practices, FEMA is required to publish updated guidance in consultation with the advisory group.\n\nPeters\u2019 bipartisan law has been endorsed by the International Fund for Animal Welfare, the Humane Society Legislative Fund, the Humane Society of the United States, the Animal Welfare Institute, the National Animal Care & Control Association, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, the National Alliance of State Animal & Agricultural Emergency Programs, and the National Animal Rescue and Sheltering Coalition.\n\nBelow are statements in support of Peters\u2019 bipartisan law:\n\n\u201cWe are so grateful for Senator Peters\u2019 leadership on this important piece of legislation,\u201d said Molly Tamulevich, Michigan State Director for the Humane Society of the United States. \u201cMichiganders know that animals deserve to be considered in all emergency planning, from ice storms to tornadoes to floods. It\u2019s no surprise that our Senator has reflected our state\u2019s strong animal protection values by championing the PAW Act. By protecting animals during disasters, we are not only keeping our companions safe, but helping their families too.\u201d\n\n\u201cIFAW applauds Senators Peters and Portman for championing this important bill to establish a working group relating to best practices and federal guidance for pets and other captive animals before, during and following disasters,\u201d said Shannon Walajtys, Director of the Disaster Response & Risk Reduction Program for the International Fund for Animal Welfare. \u201cDisasters are escalating in both frequency and severity, often devastating whole communities, and building resilience is key to protecting human and animal lives. Time and again we see people refuse to evacuate if they cannot bring their animals with them, including pets, livestock and captive animals in facilities. Furthermore, abandoned animals of all species in disaster areas can present unique challenges and dangers for first responders. This important new law will help to identify gaps and provide the guidance necessary to better protect animals before, during and following disasters, and the people who love them.\u201d\n\n\u201cAmericans consider pets to be our family and protecting the health and safety of animals in disasters is a matter of strong public interest. Approximately 70% of American households have pets, and past disasters have shown that failing to account for animals during times of crisis results in increased risk to human safety and compounds the psychological trauma suffered by those affected by the disaster,\u201d said Sara Amundson, President of the Humane Society Legislative Fund. \u201cWe are grateful to Senators Peters and Portman for their leadership seeking to ensure all pets as well as service animals and animals in zoos and other facilities are considered in disaster planning. As we face increasingly intense storms, wildfires and other crises due to climate change, it\u2019s welcome news that Congress came together on a bipartisan basis and the President has now signed the PAW Act into law.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs we have just seen with the evacuations and rescues in Florida, every story on natural disasters, whether floods or fires or hurricanes, shows people fleeing with their pets,\u201d said Nancy Blaney, Director of Government Affairs for the Animal Welfare Institute. \u201cSenators Peters\u2019 and Portman\u2019s bill will make sure that the best information and resources are applied to the job of getting everyone out safely and together.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe National Animal Care & Control Association (NACA) realizes the value of the proposed Senate bill and endorses it entirely. Furthermore, NACA is appreciative of Senators Peters and Portman for introducing this vital bill and supports the formation of a working group to ensure prior to, during, and after devastating disasters, pets and the families who love them are protected,\u201d said Jerrica Owen, Executive Director of the National Animal Care & Control Association. \u201cAnimal Control Officers are First Responders and are called upon in times of disaster to support rescue and recovery efforts. Preparations, and planning that includes pets as part of the family, support their efforts in ensuring safety for the whole family.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe ASPCA has witnessed firsthand how incorporating animals into disaster plans can prevent avoidable tragedy, most recently during our rescue efforts in response to Hurricane Ian. The Paw Act will go a long way toward protecting animals when crises like this threaten their lives,\u201d said Matt Bershadker, ASPCA president and CEO. \u201cWe thank Senators Peters and Portman and Representatives Titus and DeFazio for championing this legislation, and President Biden for signing it, and look forward to working with the newly-created FEMA-led working group to establish best practices that enhance protections for vulnerable animals as well as people who risk their lives to save them.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe National Alliance of State Animal and Agricultural Emergency Programs (NASAAEP) and the National Animal Rescue and Sheltering Coalition (NARSC) strongly endorse this legislation,\u201d said Eric Thompson, NASAAEP President. \u201cState, local, tribal, and territorial emergency managers work tirelessly every day to ensure the safety of the people in their communities during disasters and emergencies. They recognize that in order to safeguard people, they must also address the issues and needs of pets and other animals in their jurisdictions. We applaud Senators Peters and Portman for leading this important legislation, which will create an interdisciplinary Working Group with the potential to identify and address some long-standing barriers to effective animal emergency management. The number and severity of devastating disasters experienced in this country over the last several years has highlighted the need for additional coordination for disaster planning and management, and this legislation provides a key opportunity to better prepare for and manage animal issues in disasters.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis legislation will lead to greater coordination between all levels of government and the nongovernmental sector, where much of the nation\u2019s professional animal expertise and response capabilities exist, to better protect both human and animal lives,\u201d said Anne McCann, Chair-Elect of National Animal Rescue and Sheltering Coalition. \u201cIt has the potential to greatly reduce suffering and hardship in America before, during, and after natural disasters. NASAAEP and NARSC are both close partners with FEMA and USDA and are eager to see this legislation pass. We are grateful for Senators Peters and Portman for leading this effort.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:20:33Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-bipartisan-legislation-to-save-taxpayer-dollars-by-ensuring-public-buildings-use-energy-efficient-lighting-signed-into-law", "Peters Bipartisan Legislation to Save Taxpayer Dollars by Ensuring Public Buildings Use Energy-Efficient Lighting Signed into Law", "2022-10-18", "2022", "2022-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Bipartisan legislation authored by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, that would help save taxpayer dollars by directing the General Services Administration (GSA) to install the most life-cycle cost effective and energy-efficient lighting in public buildings has been signed into law.\n\n\u201cRequiring federal agencies to use energy-efficient lighting will not just help reduce costs and save taxpayer dollars, but it will also ensure the government is more energy efficient,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cI applaud President Biden for signing this important legislation into law and will continue working to maximize long-term cost and energy savings in the federal government.\u201d\n\nThe Bulb Replacement Improving Government with High-Efficiency Technology (BRIGHT) Act requires the GSA Administrator to ensure that public buildings are using the most life-cycle cost effective and energy-efficient technology to the extent practicable when performing normal maintenance,or altering or constructing public buildings. The law also requires GSA to issue guidance to federal agencies, and state, local and Tribal entities to further streamline efficiency and effectiveness across government. GSA previously released a series of reports that calculated that switching to LED lightbulbs would result in millions of dollars in cost-savings due to their superior lifespan and energy efficiency. Federal law does not currently require the government to maximize long-term cost and energy savings across lighting products.\n\nPeters has led numerous efforts to ensure that taxpayer dollars are spent effectively and efficiently. Earlier this year, he convened a hearing to ensure emergency relief funds have been effectively used to help Americans affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Peters\u2019 bipartisan bill to save taxpayer dollars by ensuring federal property assets are disaster resilient has advanced in the Senate. As a part of the American Rescue Plan, Peters secured $1 billion for the Technology Modernization Fund to modernize federal government systems that deliver critical services, like unemployment insurance, to Americans. Peters\u2019 provision to help save billions of federal taxpayer dollars by curbing erroneous payments to deceased individuals was signed into law last Congress. A law written by Peters to reduce duplicative software purchases called the MEGABYTE Act has saved taxpayers more than $450 million since 2016.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:20:33Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-stabenow-announce-historic-15-billion-investment-to-fix-michigans-roads-and-bridges", "Peters, Stabenow Announce Historic $1.5 Billion Investment to Fix Michigan\u2019s Roads and Bridges", "2022-10-13", "2022", "2022-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senators Gary Peters (MI) and Debbie Stabenow (MI) today announced that Michigan will receive $1,567,824,375 from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act to fix crumbling roads and bridges across the state. The total funding will come through 11 formula programs that will rebuild our roads and bridges, reduce carbon emissions, and improve safety. The Act was signed into law on November 15, 2021.\n\n\"This is a historic investment in our state's infrastructure and will provide much-needed support for our roads, highways, and bridges while creating a network of new electric vehicle charging stations. I'm proud to have worked with Senator Stabenow and President Biden to pass the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which made this investment in Michigan's future possible,\" said Senator Peters.\n\n\u201cThanks to the leadership of President Biden and his partnership with Congress, we are making the largest investment ever to fix our bridges and roads. It will transform how Michiganders get around the state and improve the safety of our bridges and roads for future generations. This funding is a game changer for Michigan and another critical piece of the investments in infrastructure coming to our state,\u201d said Senator Stabenow.\n\nThe historic investment includes funding for:\n\nNational Highway Performance Program: $761,748,497\n\nSurface Transportation Block Grant Program: $370,580,350\n\nHighway Safety Improvement Program: $78,473,158\n\nRailway-Highway Crossings Program: $903,681\n\nCongestion Mitigation & Air Quality Improvement: $82,248,200\n\nMetropolitan Planning: $13,934,218\n\nNational Highway Freight Program: $37,244,408\n\nCarbon Reduction Program: $33,043,414\n\nPROTECT Formula Program: $37,572,730\n\nBridge Formula Program: $121,633,126\n\nNational Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Program: $23,442,593\n\nMore information on each program can be found here.\n\nWorking with Republicans and Democrats, Senators Peters and Stabenow were instrumental in passing the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. The Act is transformational for Michigan. It includes unprecedented funding\u2014to rebuild our long-neglected roads and bridges, keep our drinking water safe, bring high-speed internet to Michigan communities, invest in electric vehicles, modernize the Soo Locks, and make the largest single investment ever in the Great Lakes. The Act also strengthens our Buy American laws.\n\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:20:33Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-stabenow-applaud-5-million-in-federal-funding-to-replace-lead-pipes-in-detroit", "Peters, Stabenow Applaud $5 Million in Federal Funding to Replace Lead Pipes in Detroit", "2022-10-13", "2022", "2022-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 U.S. Senators Gary Peters (MI) and Debbie Stabenow (MI) today applauded the news that the Detroit Water and Sewerage Department will receive a $5 million grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to replace lead pipes in the city. The funding comes from the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation (WIIN) Act.\n\n\u201cWe need to do everything we can to ensure all Michiganders have access to safe drinking water,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cI\u2019m proud to have supported this bipartisan legislation to provide this much-needed funding, and I will continue to work closely with the Biden Administration to prioritize replacing lead pipes across our state.\u201d\n\n\u201cMichigan knows all too well the dangers of lead pipes,\u201d said Senator Stabenow. \u201cThis critical investment will help remove and replace lead pipes so that families don\u2019t have to question whether their water is safe to drink.\u201d\n\nThe Detroit Water and Sewerage Department will use this $5 million grant to replace lead service lines at the homes of the city\u2019s most vulnerable residents, including seniors, persons with disabilities and/or children in the home. Based on current material and labor costs, the grant will provide for the replacement of about 500 lead service lines.\n\nMore information about these grants can be found here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:20:33Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/video-peters-commemorates-manufacturing-day-and-honors-michigan-manufacturers-and-workers", "VIDEO: Peters Commemorates Manufacturing Day and Honors Michigan Manufacturers and Workers", "2022-10-07", "2022", "2022-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "DETROIT, MI \u2013 U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) released a video recognizing Michigan manufacturers and workers in advance of Manufacturing Day, which is tomorrow, Friday October 7th.\n\n\u201cToday we\u2019re celebrating the contributions of all the workers across Michigan who help keep us at the forefront of innovation. It\u2019s because of you that our state is known around the world as the backbone of American manufacturing,\u201d Senator Peters said. \u201cThis year, we have a lot to celebrate. Working with President Biden, we\u2019ve been able to get multiple bills signed into law to bolster manufacturing and enter a new era of American ingenuity.\n\n\u201cWith these historic investments in American workers, we\u2019re cementing our place as global leaders in manufacturing for years to come. So to all the workers in Michigan and across the United States: thank you all for the hard work you do to support our communities and our country. I\u2019ll always fight for you and for good-paying manufacturing jobs in our state,\u201d he concluded.\n\nPeters has made strengthening domestic manufacturing a top priority during his time in the Senate. He helped author and pass the CHIPS and Science Act, which includes a provision he and Senator Debbie Stabenow (MI) secured to boost the auto sector\u2019s manufacturing of semiconductor chips. Peters also supported and helped pass the Inflation Reduction Act, which will strengthen domestic manufacturing and create millions of American jobs.\n\nVideo of his remarks is available here, and below is the text as delivered:\n\n\u201cHappy Manufacturing Day! Today we\u2019re celebrating the contributions of all the workers across Michigan who help keep us at the very forefront of innovation. It\u2019s because of you that our state is known around the world as the backbone of American manufacturing.\n\n\u201cThis year, we have a lot to celebrate. Working with President Biden, we\u2019ve been able to get multiple bills signed into law to bolster manufacturing and enter a new era of American ingenuity.\n\n\u201cI was proud to lead the charge to boost American manufacturing of semiconductor chips, including for our auto sector, in the CHIPS and Science Act \u2013 which is a game changer for Michigan and our manufacturing sector.\n\n\u201cNow that President Biden has signed the CHIPS Act into law, the federal government has made a significant new investment to bring chip manufacturing back home to America, strengthen our supply chains, support well-paying jobs, lower costs for families, and bolster our national security. The law also makes needed investments in research and development for cutting-edge scientific advancements, which will pave the way for the innovations and inventions of the future.\n\n\u201cI also helped enact the Inflation Reduction Act, which will boost domestic manufacturing and accelerate development of clean energy. This law helps build American clean energy supply chains, increases tax incentives aimed to bolster manufacturing of American-made products, which will create millions of American jobs.\n\n\u201cAnd thanks to these efforts, manufacturing jobs haven\u2019t just rebounded after pandemic losses \u2013 they\u2019ve surged. Companies from around the world are committed to building and expanding their manufacturing footprints in the United States because we\u2019ve shown that we\u2019re entering a new era of innovation. I strongly believe that you can\u2019t be a great country if you don\u2019t actually make things \u2013 and with these historic investments in American workers, we\u2019re cementing our place as global leaders in manufacturing for years to come.\n\n\u201cSo to all the workers in Michigan and across the United States: thank you. Thank you for all of your hard work that you do to support our communities and our country. I\u2019ll always fight for you and for good-paying manufacturing jobs in our state.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:20:33Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/video-peters-recognizes-cybersecurity-awareness-month", "VIDEO: Peters Recognizes Cybersecurity Awareness Month", "2022-10-06", "2022", "2022-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "DETROIT, MI \u2013 U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, released the following statement recognizing October as National Cybersecurity Awareness Month:\n\n\u201cFrom work and school to staying connected with friends and family, our daily lives depend on being secure online. National Cybersecurity Awareness Month highlights how people, businesses, schools and governments can work to prevent cyber-attacks that can compromise everything from our national and economic security to sensitive personal information. By taking simple steps \u2013 like updating our devices regularly, enabling multifactor authentication, and using different strong passwords for every account \u2013 every one of us can protect ourselves from cybercriminals that continue launching persistent attacks against American networks.\n\n\u201cWhile we can all play a part in preventing network breaches that can disrupt our lives and livelihoods \u2013 our government must have an effective strategy to address cybersecurity threats across the board. I have been proud to lead some of the most significant updates to our nation\u2019s cybersecurity policies in history and will continue my work to strengthen our nation\u2019s cybersecurity defenses.\u201d\n\nTo watch video of Senator Peters recognizing National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, click here.\n\nPeters\u2019 historic, bipartisan provision to require critical infrastructure owners and operators to report to the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) if they experience a substantial cyber-attack or if they make a ransomware payment was signed into law. Peters\u2019 bipartisan bill to enhance cybersecurity assistance to K-12 educational institutions across the country was also signed into law. Additionally, Senator Peters secured several provisions in the bipartisan infrastructure law to bolster cybersecurity \u2013 including $100 million fund to help victims of a serious breach recover quickly. Peters\u2019 bipartisan bills to bolster cybersecurity for state and local governments, strengthen the federal cybersecurity workforce, and help secure federal information technology supply chains have been signed into law. Peters has also authored and passed significant reforms out of the Senate to require civilian federal agencies to report to CISA if they experience a substantial cyber-attack and ensure federal agencies can quickly and securely adopt cloud-based technologies that improve government operations and efficiency. The senator\u2019s bipartisan bills to help secure open source software and require CISA to provide voluntary cybersecurity resources to commercial satellite owners and operators have advanced in the Senate.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:20:33Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/house-passes-peters-bipartisan-bill-to-reduce-the-spread-of-toxic-pfas-at-commercial-airports", "House Passes Peters Bipartisan Bill to Reduce the Spread of Toxic PFAS at Commercial Airports", "2022-09-30", "2022", "2022-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u00ad\u00ad\u2013 The U.S. House of Representatives passed bipartisan legislation authored by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) to reduce the spread of toxic per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination at commercial airports.\n\nThe Preventing PFAS Runoff at Airports Act \u2013 which passed the U.S. Senate unanimously earlier this month \u2013 would deploy more existing Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) funding for commercial airports to purchase devices necessary to test their firefighting equipment without discharging toxic PFAS chemicals. This legislation would encourage commercial airports to purchase the relatively low-cost devices \u2013 also referred to as an input-based testing system \u2013 to help limit and prevent exposure to PFAS, which are known as \u201cforever chemicals\u201d because they do not naturally break down. It would also direct the FAA to identify options for reimbursing airports in Michigan and elsewhere that already acquired the devices without federal funding.\n\n\u201cAs PFAS contamination continues to pose serious risks, there are commonsense, fiscally responsible ways that we can prevent and mitigate its spread,\u201d said Senator Peters, a member of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee. \u201cMy bipartisan Preventing PFAS Runoff at Airports Act will make testing equipment that prevents the spread of PFAS contamination more affordable for airports, while protecting our first responders, families, and Great Lakes. Now that the House has passed this bill, I\u2019ll keep working to see it signed into law.\u201d\n\n\u201cCommercial airports should have the necessary resources to test their firefighting equipment in a manner that does not expose firefighters or the surrounding communities to toxic PFAS foams,\u201d said Senator Moran. \u201cI look forward to this legislation being signed into law to help promote the health and wellness of firefighters and aviation employees at commercial airports, as well as protect the communities that surround them.\u201d\n\nThe FAA has required commercial airports nationwide to use firefighting foam that contains toxic PFAS chemicals. For years airports were required to discharge this foam as part of routine, federally-mandated testing of their firefighting equipment. This put firefighters, the environment and the public at risk from exposure to toxic PFAS chemicals.\n\nThe Preventing PFAS Runoff at Airports Act \u2013 which Peters introduced earlier this year with U.S. Senators Jerry Moran (R-KS), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) \u2013 would make more funding from the FAA\u2019s Airport Improvement Program available to commercial airports to purchase devices that avoid discharging PFAS chemicals when testing firefighting equipment. It would also direct the FAA to identify options for reimbursing airports in Michigan and elsewhere that already acquired the devices without federal funding.\n\nPeters has led the charge in the Senate to address PFAS contamination. In July, Peters introduced bipartisan legislation to help advance the federal government\u2019s understanding of toxic per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) to better inform plans to effectively address PFAS contamination. As Chairman of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, he held a field hearing in East Lansing to examine federal efforts and coordination with state and local governments to clean up and prevent PFAS contamination. Following that he introduced bipartisan legislation to improve communication and coordination efforts across every level of government to ensure there is a more comprehensive approach to cleaning up existing sites and preventing future contamination. Previously, he convened a hearing in December examining Department of Defense failures to protect servicemembers, military families and Michigan communities from PFAS exposure. Peters\u2019 bill to help protect firefighters and emergency responders from PFAS exposure in the line of duty also passed the Senate.\n\nLast year, Peters released a report by the Government Accountability Office (GAO) that shows the federal government needs to take further action to clean up and prevent contamination from PFAS and helped pass the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which invests in clean drinking water and includes dedicated funding to address PFAS contamination. He supported or led provisions in the 2019 national defense bill banning the Department of Defense from purchasing firefighting foams containing PFAS. The bill also immediately prohibited the use of firefighting foams containing PFAS in military training exercises, and enhanced state cooperation with the Department of Defense regarding clean-up due to PFAS contamination stemming from military-related activities. He authored and enacted into law in 2018 a provision allowing airports to discontinue the use of firefighting foams with PFAS. In September 2018, Peters helped convene the first hearing on PFAS contamination in the Senate, assessing the federal response to contamination and remediation. He then convened a field summit in Grand Rapids in November 2018 to shine a light on how the local, state and federal governments are coordinating their response to PFAS.\n\nBelow are statements in support of Peters\u2019 bipartisan legislation:\n\n\u201cAt Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport, our fire department utilizes an input-based testing system,\u201d said Chad Newton, CEO, Wayne County Airport Authority. \u201cIt is portable, which means we can test multiple trucks, saving money and reducing the environmental impact. If the system was funded at 100-percent federal share, as Senator Peters is considering in his legislation, that would help airports throughout Michigan and the country. We all want to ensure we have the best firefighting equipment, at the same time preventing harmful chemicals from reaching our water systems. This proposed bill would also help the smaller departments that cannot afford this technology.\u201d\n\n\u201cToxic PFAS contamination is a major threat in communities across Michigan, and this legislation will help reduce exposure to PFAS at commercial airports, one of the key sources of contamination,\u201d said Bentley Johnson, Federal Government Affairs Director for the Michigan League of Conservation Voters. \u201cWe commend Sen. Peters and sponsors of this legislation for taking proactive steps to protect our health and begin to start tackling this water contamination crisis.\u201d\n\n\u201cCherry Capital Airport applauds Senator Peters\u2019 bipartisan efforts to secure funding for input-based testing equipment for Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting vehicles. This equipment allows airports to meet their regulatory vehicle testing requirements without discharging firefighting foam containing PFAS. This step in a road of many brings the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) closer to the goal of eliminating PFAS chemicals from impacting our soil and water,\u201d said Kevin Klein, CEO of the Northwest Regional Airport Authority and Director of the Cherry Capital Airport. \u201cCherry Capital Airport looks forward to the day that the FAA accepts and implements a new firefighting foam that will protect the flying public.\u201d\n\n\u201cMAAE supports this bill which will allow airports to acquire input-based testing equipment through the AIP, so they can perform required ARFF vehicle testing without introducing AFFF into the environment,\u201d said Miles Weaver, President of the Michigan Association of Airport Executives and Airport Operations Manager at Battle Creek Executive Airport at Kellogg Field. \u201cMAAE appreciates Senator Peters\u2019 leadership to assist airports not only in Michigan but nationwide in addressing this aspect of the PFAS issue.\u201d\n\n\u201cEnvironmental stewardship is a top priority for airport executives, and AAAE appreciates this bipartisan effort to enhance the federal government\u2019s support for airports to safely test aqueous film forming foam (AFFF),\u201d said American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE) President & CEO Todd Hauptli. \u201cWhile airports eagerly await federal approval of PFAS-free foam and significant long-term federal support to transition from FAA-mandated AFFF, this legislation is a positive step forward that merits support. We are grateful to Senator Peters and his colleagues for continued leadership on this important issue.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe appreciate Senators Peters and Moran working together to help airports acquire additional firefighting foam testing carts. The 2018 FAA reauthorization law directed the FAA to certify a fluorine-free alternative firefighting foam for airports to use, and we look forward to that work concluding in a timely manner and to the establishment of a national transition plan for fluorine-free foams,\u201d said Annie Russo, Chief Political and Congressional Strategy Officer at Airports Council International \u2013 North America. \u201cIn the meantime, airports welcome this assistance in getting new carts to capture firefighting foam discharged during FAA-mandated certification tests.\u201d\n\n\u201cIt is crucial that airports have the resources necessary to extinguish fires safely and minimize the environmental impact of fighting these fires. The IAFC thanks Senator Peters for introducing this legislation, which will greatly assist airports in meeting both needs,\u201d said Chief Kenneth Stuebing, President and Board Chair of the International Association of Fire Chiefs.\n\n\u201cFire fighters dedicate their lives to protecting others. While saving others and making their communities better places to live, these brave men and women continue to experience exposures to toxic PFAS-laden firefighting foams subjecting them to higher risks of cancer and other serious health effects,\u201d said Edward A. Kelly, General President of the International Association of Fire Fighters. \u201cThis is unacceptable. The IAFF supports Senators Peters\u2019 legislation providing for foam containment devices to be installed on aircraft firefighting vehicles, and on behalf of our 326,000 members, I commend him for his continuous efforts to help protect fire fighters and the communities they serve from unnecessary PFAS exposure.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe applaud Senator Peters for finding creative solutions to limit the use of PFAS containing fire-fighting foam at airports here in the Great Lakes region through more affordable access to emergency testing equipment,\u201d said Jennifer Hill, Associate Director of the Great Lakes Regional Center of National Wildlife Federation. \u201cThe use of AFFF here in Michigan has resulted in PFAS contamination consumption advisories for deer, fish, and wildlife, both in local communities and the Great Lakes. PFAS contamination is impacting the water resources, fish and wildlife we value as Michiganders \u2013 and has real consequences for the Great Lakes outdoor economy if we don\u2019t work together, alongside impacted communities, to address its sources.\u201d\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:08:33Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-bipartisan-bills-to-strengthen-delivery-of-government-services-and-support-federal-agencies-efforts-to-meet-performance-goals-advance-in-senate", "Peters Bipartisan Bills to Strengthen Delivery of Government Services and Support Federal Agencies\u2019 Efforts to Meet Performance Goals Advance in Senate", "2022-09-30", "2022", "2022-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Two bipartisan bills authored by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) to help improve collaboration among federal agency offices located outside of Washington, D.C, and improve government effectiveness have advanced in the Senate. The bills would authorize Federal Executive Boards (FEBs), which help improve collaboration among federal agency offices located outside of Washington, D.C. and support government-wide councils that are critical to implementing the President\u2019s Management Agenda. The bills were approved by the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, where Peters serves as Chair, and now move to the full Senate for consideration.\n\n\u201cTo rebuild trust in the federal government, we must be able to effectively serve communities on the ground,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cThese bipartisan bills will help ensure federal agencies are properly using taxpayer dollars to improve operations, strengthen the federal workforce, and support government employees in Michigan as they work to deliver essential services to Michiganders.\u201d\n\nThe Government-wide Executive Councils Administration and Results Improvement Act will make permanent and expand the Office of Executive Councils at the General Services Administration (GSA). The legislation increases accountability for government-wide performance goals by requiring greater transparency for the funds collected and used to support the President\u2019s Management Agenda\u2014which defines management priorities for all federal agencies to improve the operations and performance of the federal government. The legislation also increases visibility into council decision-making and project execution by streamlining leadership roles and responsibilities of the primary government-wide councils. Finally, the bill also requires each council to develop strategic plans and to post those plans publicly, so Congress and the public can better understand council priorities, see how those priorities directly contribute to the President\u2019s Management Agenda and enable more effective oversight of critical government-wide management challenges.\n\nThe Improving Government Efficiency and Workforce Development through Federal Executive Boards Act would authorize Federal Executive Boards (FEB) and establish a stable source of funding to support them. FEBs help coordinate federal emergency response activities at the local level, and build partnerships between agencies and state and local partners to ensure federal programs are delivered effectively. Currently, there are 28 FEB locations across the nation, including one in Detroit, Michigan. The legislation would enhance FEB workforce development-related activities, such as supporting recruitment into federal internship and apprenticeship programs.\n\nPeters has led numerous efforts to ensure the federal government works effectively and efficiently for the American people. He convened a hearing to ensure pandemic emergency relief funds have been effectively used to help Americans affected by COVID-19. Peters\u2019 bipartisan bill to save taxpayer dollars by ensuring federal property assets are disaster resilient has advanced in the Senate. As a part of the American Rescue Plan, Peters secured $1 billion for the Technology Modernization Fund to modernize federal government systems that deliver critical services, like unemployment insurance, to Americans. Peters\u2019 provision to help save billions of federal taxpayer dollars by curbing erroneous payments to deceased individuals was signed into law last Congress. A law written by Peters to reduce duplicative software purchases called the MEGAByte Act has saved taxpayers more than $450 million since 2016.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:08:33Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-bipartisan-legislation-to-protect-fema-reservists-jobs-during-disaster-response-signed-into-law", "Peters Bipartisan Legislation to Protect FEMA Reservists' Jobs During Disaster Response Signed Into Law", "2022-09-30", "2022", "2022-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Legislation authored by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI), Chairman and of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, to protect Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Reservists from losing their full-time employment when they are called up to assist communities with disaster response has been signed into law. FEMA Reservists are temporary, on-call and intermittent employees who are essential to the agency\u2019s mission to quickly respond to disasters, but they currently lack employment protections that ensure they will be able to return to their full-time jobs once their disaster response mission is complete.\n\n\u201cFEMA Reservists are essential to ensuring the federal government can aid communities that have been hit by natural disasters and other emergencies. These dedicated employees need our support as they help people rebuild and recover following extreme weather events like floods and hurricanes,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cNow that President Biden has signed this commonsense, bipartisan bill into law \u2013 FEMA Reservists will no longer have to risk their livelihoods when being called up to respond to a disaster.\u201d\n\nCurrently, FEMA faces a large shortfall of Reservists because it is difficult to recruit and retain Americans who are likely unable to balance Reservist duties and full-time employment. Unlike reservists in the U.S. military, FEMA Reservists do not currently have employment protections that would enable them to perform their disaster response duties and ensure that their permanent, full-time jobs will still be available when they return.\n\nThe Civilian Reservist Emergency Workforce Act extends critical employment protections to FEMA Reservists to ensure they would be able to keep their full-time employment when they are called to assist in disaster response efforts. Peters introduced the legislation following testimony he heard as part of the Committee\u2019s bipartisan oversight of the COVID-19 pandemic response to ensure the United States is better prepared for future national emergencies.\n\nAs Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, Peters has led several efforts to strengthen our federal disaster preparedness and response. Peters secured $500 million in funding as part of the bipartisan infrastructure bill for a program he created to help states establish revolving loan programs for local governments to carry out mitigation projects that reduce the risk of shoreline erosion, extreme flooding, and other natural disasters. Peters also convened a hearing with disaster preparedness and response experts to hear how worsening natural disasters, including flooding, severe storms, and wildfires, continue to harm lives and livelihoods in Michigan and across the nation.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:08:33Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-bill-to-help-improve-federal-workforces-understanding-of-artificial-intelligence-heads-to-president-to-be-signed-into-law", "Peters Bill to Help Improve Federal Workforce\u2019s Understanding of Artificial Intelligence Heads to President to be Signed into Law", "2022-09-29", "2022", "2022-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Legislation authored by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee that would help bolster the federal workforce\u2019s understanding of artificial intelligence (AI) has passed the House. The bill would create a training program to help federal employees responsible for purchasing and managing AI technologies better understand the capabilities and risks they pose to the American people. It would also help ensure the United States maintains a global leadership role in rapidly developing technologies as foreign competitors like the Chinese government continue to prioritize investments in AI technologies. The legislation, which passed the Senate in December of last year, now heads to the President to be signed into law.\u201cFederal workers need to understand how artificial intelligence could affect the safety, security, and freedoms of Americans,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cThis commonsense, bipartisan legislation will train our federal workforce to better understand this technology, and ensure that it is used ethically and in way that is consistent with our nation\u2019s values. Now that it has passed the House \u2013 I urge the President to sign it into law as soon as possible.\u201d\n\nThe National Security Commission on Artificial Intelligence has raised the need to train the federal workforce on AI, especially those who procure and manage these technologies. While there are clear benefits to using AI, experts remain concerned that if used improperly, this technology could harm U.S. citizens and compromise national security. The Artificial Intelligence Training for the Acquisition Workforce Act would help train federal employees who purchase and manage AI technology for government agencies to ensure it is used appropriately.\n\nThe bipartisan bill would require the Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to provide and regularly update an AI training program for federal employees who manage and purchase this technology for the federal government. The training aims to help federal employees better understand the benefits of AI, as well as the ethical and national security risks posed by these technologies. The legislation also encourages the OMB director to work with scholars and experts from the public and private sectors to create the training. It would also ensure that OMB is tracking the participation and feedback of participants to identify possible ways to improve the training.\n\nThe legislation builds on Peters\u2019 efforts to ensure AI is used safely and ethically. His bipartisan legislation to secure and protect information handled by federal contractors using artificial intelligence (AI) technology, such as biometric data from facial recognition scans, has advanced in the Senate. A Peters provision to ensure that the use of AI across the federal government is effective, ethical, and accountable by providing resources and guidance to federal agencies was signed into law as a part of last year\u2019s government funding bill.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:08:33Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-bipartisan-legislation-to-help-prevent-foreign-influence-in-us-policy-heads-to-senate-floor", "Peters Bipartisan Legislation to Help Prevent Foreign Influence in U.S. Policy Heads to Senate Floor", "2022-09-29", "2022", "2022-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 Bipartisan legislation authored by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, to improve our nation\u2019s ability to prevent foreign governments, including adversaries like the Chinese and Russian governments, from attempting to influence U.S. policy without making appropriate disclosures has advanced in the Senate. The legislation would help prevent lobbyists working on behalf of foreign governments and political parties from exploiting an existing Foreign Agent Registration Act (FARA) provision that exempts Lobbying Disclosure Act (LDA) registrants who are agents of foreign persons or organizations from registering under FARA. The bill was advanced by the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee where Peters serves as Chair, and now moves to the full Senate for consideration.\n\n\u201cThis bipartisan legislation will increase transparency around foreign lobbying and ensure our government is acting in the best interests of the American people \u2013 not foreign adversaries,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cNow that it has advanced in the Senate, I urge my colleagues to pass this bill as soon as possible so we can address the serious threat of foreign influence in our nation\u2019s political process.\u201d\n\nThe Lobbying Disclosure Improvement Act would require LDA registrants to indicate, as part of their registration, whether they are taking advantage of the FARA exemption. This would help the Department of Justice narrow the pool of LDA registrants they are examining for potential violations, while not imposing any meaningful additional burden on registrants.\n\nIn his role on the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, Peters has worked to ensure that the federal government\u2019s is working in the best interest of the nation. The Senate has passed Peters\u2019 bipartisan legislation to help identify and mitigate potential conflicts of interest between taxpayer-funded projects and government contractors. Peters has also introduced a bipartisan bill to require federal agencies to identify and address potential foreign conflicts of interest involving government contractors, including by disqualifying firms from being awarded contracts where necessary to protect national security and foreign policy interests.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:08:33Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-bipartisan-legislation-to-increase-federal-support-for-local-fire-departments-passes-committee", "Peters Bipartisan Legislation to Increase Federal Support for Local Fire Departments Passes Committee", "2022-09-29", "2022", "2022-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 Bipartisan legislation authored by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) to increase federal support for local fire departments across the nation has advanced in the Senate. The bill would reauthorize critical Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) grant programs that local fire departments use to address staffing needs, purchase equipment, develop fire training and education programs, and improve emergency medical services. The bill reauthorizes the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grant program, the Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program, and the United States Fire Administration (USFA) that fire stations rely on for critical resources and information. In 2021, Michigan fire departments received more than $10.8 million from the AFG program and more than $8 million from the SAFER grant program. The bill was advanced by the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee where Peters serves as Chair, and now moves to the full Senate for consideration.\n\n\u201cBy reauthorizing these critical federal programs, we can help fire stations in Michigan and across the country support brave and courageous firefighters as they work to save lives and safeguard our communities,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cThis legislation will ensure fire departments have the tools and resources they need to protect people from fires and emergencies. I urge my colleagues pass this commonsense, bipartisan bill as soon as possible.\u201d\n\nFire departments use these federal programs to recruit and retain additional personnel, as well as buy up-to-date equipment such as breathing air compressors, hoses, nozzles, and more. Fire stations also utilize the programs to fund safety training and technical rescue training, as well as health screenings for firefighters.\n\nThe Fire Grants and Safety Act reauthorizes SAFER, AFG, and the USFA until 2030. It authorizes $95 million for USFA \u2013 a nearly $20 million increase from current levels, and maintains currently authorized levels of funding for the SAFER and AFG programs.\n\nBelow are statements in support of Peters\u2019 bipartisan legislation:\n\n\u201cFirefighters in Michigan rely on these critical programs to increase staffing levels for the safety of our members and the citizens we protect. In addition these programs also provide everything from health screenings to having the equipment we need to safeguard communities across the state,\u201d said Matthew Sahr, President of the Michigan Professional Firefighters Union. \u201cI am deeply grateful to Senator Peters for leading this legislation to ensure fire stations have increased federal support to ensure firefighters are protected in the line of duty.\u201d\n\n\u201cThese critical federal programs help ensure that Michigan\u2019s firefighters have what they need to save lives, and put out fires that threaten our homes, businesses, and schools,\u201d said Fred Timpner, Executive Director of the Michigan Association of Fire Fighters. \u201cBy leading this legislation to reauthorize important grant programs that provide millions to our fire stations each year, Senator Peters continues to show his unwavering support for firefighters safe communities in Michigan and across the nation.\u201d\n\n\u201cFire chiefs in Michigan use federal grants to replace aging equipment, train personnel, and ensure that our firefighters are safe as they put their lives on the line to protect communities,\u201d said Fire Chief Johnny Menifee, Vice President of the Michigan Association of Fire Chiefs. \u201cIt is essential that we continue to have access to these essential programs to strengthen our ability to respond to fires. Thank you to Senator Peters for leading this legislation, and for his continued support of fire stations in Michigan.\u201d\n\n\u201cI would like to thank Senator Peters and Senator Portman for introducing this important legislation. The AFG and SAFER grants provide federal matching funds directly to local fire and EMS departments to help them provide lifesaving service in their communities. In addition, the U.S. Fire Administration is an important federal partner for local fire departments for data, training, and fire prevention,\u201d said Chief Donna Black, EFO, CFO, the President and Chair of the Board of the International Association of Fire Chiefs. \u201cI look forward to working with them to pass this important legislation this year.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe IAFF applauds Senators Peters and Portman for their leadership in developing a long-term reauthorization of the AFG and SAFER programs, which serve as integral parts of America\u2019s fire service. Reauthorizing these programs and eliminating their statutory sunset sends a strong message that staffing, safety, and the well-being of fire fighters remains the highest priority for Congress,\u201d said International Association of Fire Fighters, General President Edward Kelly. \u201cThe IAFF also appreciates Senators Peters and Portman\u2019s work to reauthorize and increase funding for the U.S. Fire Administration. The USFA is a vital partner that supports fire fighters and enables their service to our communities. These funds will ensure USFA can work with America\u2019s fire fighters to confront ever-worsening wildfires, support the continued growth of fire-based EMS, and improve our data analysis abilities. Our IAFF urges Congress to pass the Fire Grants and Safety Act as soon as possible. America\u2019s fire fighters and EMS personnel, and our communities deserve nothing less.\u201d\n\n\u201cVolunteer and combination fire and EMS departments struggle to get the funding they need to keep the lights on, fuel the ambulance, and purchase turnout gear,\u201d said National Volunteer Fire Council Chair Steve Hirsch. \u201cLocal fundraisers such as chicken dinners can only raise so much. The AFG and SAFER programs are critical to these departments because they allow them to purchase needed equipment and provide recruitment incentives to volunteers to serve their community. I appreciate Chairman Peters and Ranking Member Portman for their leadership in moving the reauthorization. However, our work is not over. We still need to move this through the House, and get this legislation to President Biden\u2019s desk by the end of the year.\u201d\n\nThe Congressional Fire Services Institute (CFSI) thanks Chairman Peters and Ranking Member Portman for their support of America's fire and emergency services. \"Reauthorizing the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) and Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) programs, as well as the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) will help to ensure that fire departments across the country have the necessary support to keep their communities safe,\" said President of the CFSI Board of Directors, Bill Jenaway. \"Chairman Peters and Ranking Member Portman understand how important AFG, SAFER, and USFA are to the work of our country's fire and EMS personnel, and CFSI looks forward to working with them and the Congressional Fire Services Caucus to move forward on this vital legislation.\"\n\n\u201cOn behalf of the Board of Directors of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, I would like to thank Senator Peters and Senator Portman for their commitment to our nation\u2019s fire and emergency services. This important legislation will help ensure fire departments across the country have access to the critical equipment, staffing, and training they need to keep our communities safe. Additionally, the bill makes continued investments in Community Risk Reduction, research into firefighter health and safety, and vital data collection efforts. We thank the Senators for their continued efforts to keep America\u2019s firefighters and their communities safe,\u201d said Chief Ron Siarnicki, Executive Director of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation.\n\n\"Reauthorizing the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) and Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) programs, as well as the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA), is vital to improving the effectiveness of State Fire Marshals\u2019 Offices, as well as other state and local fire departments and emergency agencies within our states,\u201d said National Association of State Fire Marshalls, President Michael Desrochers. \u201cWe appreciate the leadership from Chairman Peters, Ranking Member Portman, and the support from other members of the Congressional Fire Services Caucus for the American fire and emergency services.\"\n\n\"The International Society of Fire Service Instructors (ISFSI) strongly supports the reauthorization of the Staffing for Adequate Fire & Emergency Response (SAFER) program, Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) program, and the U.S. Fire Administration. \"Investing funds to ensure our firefighters have the resources necessary to protect their communities is essential to ensuring they are able to go home to their families,\" said Leigh Hubbard, Executive Director of ISFSI. \"We appreciate the work Chairman Peters and Ranking Member Portman have done on this vital legislation.\"\n\n\u201cNFPA strongly supports this bipartisan bill to continue the important work of the U.S. Fire Administration as well as the AFG and SAFER grant programs that are critical to our first responders.\u201d Jim Pauley, President & CEO, National Fire Protection Association.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:08:33Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-passes-peters-bipartisan-legislation-to-help-at-risk-communities-invest-in-disaster-mitigation-projects", "Senate Passes Peters Bipartisan Legislation to Help At-Risk Communities Invest in Disaster Mitigation Projects", "2022-09-29", "2022", "2022-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 The Senate has passed bipartisan legislation authored by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, to make permanent the Federal Emergency Management Agency\u2019s (FEMA) National Risk Index (NRI) \u2013 an online tool that utilizes data to identify communities that are most vulnerable to natural disasters. The bill would also require FEMA to use data from the NRI to establish community disaster resilience zones (CDRZs) to designate the communities across the nation that are most in need of mitigation projects \u2013 and help them access federal funding and support to plan for mitigation and resilience projects. As damage from extreme weather events continues to cause millions of dollars in damages that taxpayers must cover, Peters\u2019 legislation will help at-risk communities make important investments that will limit the damage caused by natural disasters. The legislation now heads to the House of Representatives.\n\n\u201cIdentifying which areas in Michigan and across the country are most affected by disasters will help drive private and public sector investments toward those communities so they can build resilient infrastructure that can withstand extreme flooding, storms, wildfires and other disasters,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cThis commonsense, bipartisan legislation \u2013 which has now passed the Senate \u2013 will help ensure there is a strategic and data-driven approach to our nation\u2019s response to extreme weather events and other emergencies.\u201d\n\nSmall, impoverished, rural and historically disadvantaged communities continue to face severe consequences from natural disasters \u2013 including loss of life and significant financial damage. Studies have shown that resilience and mitigation spending saves taxpayers an average of $6 for every $1 invested. By making permanent and utilizing data from the NRI \u2013 which factors in expected annual losses, social vulnerability and community resilience \u2013 Peters\u2019 legislation would help allocate resources so at-risk communities can develop FEMA-approved hazard mitigation projects.\n\nAs Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, Peters has led several efforts to strengthen our federal disaster preparedness and response. Peters secured $500 million in funding as part of the bipartisan infrastructure bill for a program he created to help states establish revolving loan programs for local governments to carry out mitigation projects that reduce the risk of shoreline erosion, extreme flooding, and other natural disasters. Peters also convened a hearing with disaster preparedness and response experts to hear how worsening natural disasters, including flooding, severe storms, and wildfires, continue to harm lives and livelihoods in Michigan and across the nation. Peters\u2019 bipartisan legislation to protect Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Reservists from losing their full-time employment when they are called up to assist communities with disaster response has passed the House and will now head to the president to be signed into law.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:08:33Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/committee-advances-peters-bipartisan-legislation-to-help-secure-open-source-software", "Committee Advances Peters Bipartisan Legislation to Help Secure Open Source Software", "2022-09-28", "2022", "2022-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 Bipartisan legislation authored by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) to help protect federal and critical infrastructure systems by strengthening the security of open source software has advanced in the Senate. The legislation comes after a hearing convened by Peters on the Log4j incident earlier this year and would direct the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) to help ensure that open source software is used safely and securely by the federal government, critical infrastructure, and others. A vulnerability discovered in Log4j \u2013 which is widely used open source code \u2013 affected millions of computers worldwide, including critical infrastructure and federal systems. This led top cybersecurity experts to call it one of the most severe and widespread cybersecurity vulnerabilities ever seen. The bill was advanced by the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee where Peters serves as Chair. It now moves to the full Senate for consideration.\n\n\u201cOpen source software is critical to our country\u2019s national and economic security, and we must ensure it is secure against cybercriminals seeking to exploit vulnerabilities like the one found in Log4j,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cNow that this bipartisan bill has advanced in the Senate, I urge my colleagues to pass it as soon as possible so we can help secure open source software and continue strengthening our defenses against persistent and evolving cybersecurity threats.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis important legislation will, for the first time ever, codify open source software as public infrastructure,\u201d said Trey Herr, Director, Cyber Statecraft Initiative, Scowcroft Center for Strategy and Security, the Atlantic Council. \u201cIf signed into law, it would serve as a historic step for wider federal support for the health and security of open source software. I am encouraged by the leadership of Senators Peters and Portman on this issue.\u201d\n\nThe overwhelming majority of computers in the world rely on open source code \u2013 freely available code that anyone can contribute to, develop, and use to create websites, applications, and more. It is maintained by a community of individuals and organizations. The federal government, one of the largest users of open source software in the world, must be able to manage its own risk and also help support the security of open source software in the private sector and the rest of the public sector.\n\nThe Securing Open Source Software Act would direct CISA to develop a risk framework to evaluate how open source code is used by the federal government. CISA would also evaluate how the same framework could be voluntarily used by critical infrastructure owners and operators. This will identify ways to mitigate risks in systems that use open source software. The legislation also requires CISA to hire professionals with experience developing open source software to ensure that government and the community work hand-in-hand and are prepared to address incidents like the Log4j vulnerability. Additionally, the legislation requires the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to issue guidance to federal agencies on the secure usage of open source software and establishes a software security subcommittee on the CISA Cybersecurity Advisory Committee.\n\nAs Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, Peters has led efforts to ensure our nation is better prepared to defend against cyber-attacks. His historic, bipartisan provision to require critical infrastructure owners and operators to report to CISA if they experience a substantial cyber-attack or if they make a ransomware payment was signed into law. Peters\u2019 bipartisan bill to enhance cybersecurity assistance to K-12 educational institutions across the country was also signed into law. Peters\u2019 bipartisan bills to bolster cybersecurity for state and local governments, strengthen the federal cybersecurity workforce, and help secure federal information technology supply chains have been signed into law.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:08:33Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-announces-bipartisan-legislation-expanding-veteran-burial-benefits", "Peters Announces Bipartisan Legislation Expanding Veteran Burial Benefits", "2022-09-28", "2022", "2022-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013\u2013 U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) announced bipartisan legislation \u2013 the Gerald\u2019s Law Act \u2013 that would expand Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) burial benefits eligibility to terminally ill veterans who pass away at a non-VA facility while receiving hospice care. The legislation was named after late Michigan veteran Gerald \u201cJerry\u201d Elliott of Kingsford who did not receive VA burial benefits since he passed away at home.\n\nUnder current law, the VA will cover nearly $800 toward burial and funeral expenses only if the veteran is hospitalized at the VA at the time of death. This legislation would update the department\u2019s policy, ensuring veterans aren\u2019t penalized for spending their last days in the comfort of their homes or other settings. Denise Formolo, the Veterans Service Officer for Dickinson County, raised this issue with Senator Peters\u2019 office and shared the heartbreaking story of the Elliott family \u2013 inspiring this legislation.\n\n\u201cVeterans who have served and sacrificed for our country should be treated equally based on their service, and not be penalized due to the circumstances at their time of death,\u201d said Senator Peters, a former Lieutenant Commander in the U.S. Navy Reserve and member of the Senate Armed Services Committee. \u201cThis bipartisan bill would take important steps to fix the VA\u2019s burial benefit system because we owe it our veterans and their families to ensure they are properly laid to rest with dignity and respect. We cannot allow what happened to Gerald and his loved ones to continue.\u201d\n\n\u201cIt is my great honor as a County Veteran Service Officer to have brought this issue forward to the Congress and Senate to help our Veterans and their dependents in their time of sorrow,\u201d said Denise Formolo, Veteran Service Officer at Dickinson County Veterans Affairs. \u201cKnowing that they would still be able to receive the burial benefit helps the Veteran to be able to make the decision to go home and be surrounded by his/her family and friends in their final days. I am honored to have been able to have this bill be named after Gerald Elliot, one of our county veterans, and appreciate Senator Peters\u2019 leadership on this legislation.\u201d\n\n\"The VFW supports the Gerald\u2019s Law Act which would allow terminally ill veterans who have been hospitalized at VA, but then choose to spend their final days in hospice at home, to receive the full VA burial allowance,\u201d said VFW Assistant Legislative Director Kristina Keenan. \u201cThis common-sense legislation would ensure that veterans under VA care can make the best choice for themselves during their final days without the fear of losing this important benefit. The VFW thanks Senator Peters and Senator Boozman for their support of this important legislation.\"\n\nThe Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), AMVETS, Paralyzed Veterans of America (PVA), the National Association for Country Veterans Service Officers, With Honor and The Independence Fund support Gerald\u2019s Law Act.\n\nPeters introduced the legislation with U.S. Senators John Boozman (R-AR), Joe Manchin (D-WV) and Mike Rounds (R-SD). Companion legislation was introduced in the House of Representatives by Representatives Jack Bergman (R-MI) and Colin Allred (D-TX).\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:08:33Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-bipartisan-bill-to-save-taxpayer-dollars-by-improving-how-federal-agencies-purchase-software-heads-to-senate-floor", "Peters Bipartisan Bill to Save Taxpayer Dollars by Improving How Federal Agencies Purchase Software Heads to Senate Floor", "2022-09-28", "2022", "2022-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 Bipartisan legislation authored by U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) to save taxpayer dollars by improving management of how the federal government purchases and uses software has advanced in the Senate. The bill would require agencies to conduct an independent, comprehensive assessment of their software licensing practices. This would be used by Congress, the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), and the General Services Administration (GSA) to increase federal oversight of software contracts in order to streamline operations and reduce wasteful spending. The bill was advanced by the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee where Peters serves as Chair, and now moves to the full Senate for consideration. The legislation builds on a law written by Peters to reduce duplicative software purchases called the MEGABYTE Act. Since being signed into law, this legislation has saved taxpayers more than $450 million. The bill now heads to the Senate floor for consideration.\n\n\u201cRequiring agencies to assess how they buy software will help lawmakers and the federal government formulate a plan to ensure we are effectively purchasing and managing these products,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cThis commonsense, bipartisan legislation will save taxpayer dollars, reduce waste and modernize government operations. I urge my colleagues to pass it as soon as possible.\u201d\n\nBillions of dollars are spent on software purchases and license modifications every year. Agencies\u2019 lack of visibility on what they have already purchased, combined with the way vendors sell software, often leads to duplicative purchases. Peters\u2019 legislation would help agencies formulate a plan to purchase software in a more cost-effective manner and save taxpayer dollars.\n\nThe Strengthening Agency Management and Oversight of Software Assets Act would require federal agencies to provide an independent, comprehensive assessment of their software purchasing practices to Congress, OMB, and GSA. The findings of these assessments will help federal Chief Information Officers (CIOs) to better manage how agencies acquire IT products. These actions will reduce costs, improve governance, and enhance agency performance. The legislation will allow agencies to receive fairer, more cost-competitive deals on their software assets and achieve important IT modernization goals.\n\nPeters has led numerous efforts to ensure that taxpayer dollars are spent effectively and efficiently. He convened a hearing to ensure pandemic emergency relief funds have been effectively used to help Americans affected by COVID-19. Peters\u2019 bipartisan bill to save taxpayer dollars by ensuring federal property assets are disaster resilient has advanced in the Senate. As a part of the American Rescue Plan, Peters secured $1 billion for the Technology Modernization Fund to modernize federal government systems that deliver critical services, like unemployment insurance, to Americans. Peters\u2019 provision to help save billions of federal taxpayer dollars by curbing erroneous payments to deceased individuals was signed into law last Congress.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:08:33Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-stabenow-announce-nearly-16000-in-federal-support-for-bay-mills-township-fire-department", "Peters, Stabenow Announce Nearly $16,000 in Federal Support for Bay Mills Township Fire Department", "2022-09-27", "2022", "2022-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 U.S. Senators Gary Peters (MI) and Debbie Stabenow (MI) announced that Bay Mills Township will receive a $15,900 federal grant from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS). This funding comes from the Federal Emergency Management Agency\u2019s (FEMA) Assistance to Firefighters Grants (AFG) program \u2013 and will help the township replace segments of its fire hose that are outdated.\n\n\u201cIt\u2019s important that our fire departments have the resources to purchase up-to-date safety equipment to continue serving our communities effectively,\u201d said Senator Peters, Chairman of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee. \u201cI\u2019m pleased to welcome this federal support that will help Bay Mills Township replace outdated segments of its fire hose needed by firefighters to respond to emergencies.\u201d\n\n\u201cOur firefighters put their lives on the line to protect our families, homes, and communities,\u201d said Senator Stabenow. \u201cThese new resources will allow the township to update its water hose so our first responders can keep the public safe.\u201d\n\nMore information about these grants can be found at: https://www.fema.gov/grants/preparedness/firefighters.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:08:33Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/photos-peters-hosts-census-director-robert-santos-in-detroit-and-dearborn", "PHOTOS: Peters Hosts Census Director Robert Santos in Detroit & Dearborn", "2022-09-26", "2022", "2022-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "DETROIT, MI \u2013 U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, was joined by Robert Santos, the Director of the U.S. Census Bureau, for two roundtable meetings in Detroit and Dearborn with minority and other \u201chard to count\u201d communities. The meetings highlighted the importance of the decennial census to ensuring Michigan communities have access to critical federal resources. Peters, Santos, and roundtable participants also discussed how the Bureau can work to improve future censuses and ensure that every community in Michigan gets counted.\n\n\u201cFactors such as the COVID-19 pandemic and political interference from the previous administration clearly impacted the 2020 Census, and the resulting undercounts could cost Michigan communities access to important federal resources for housing, education, and social services,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cSince his confirmation, Director Santos has demonstrated a strong commitment to improving operations at the Census Bureau. I was pleased to host him today so we could hear directly from communities across the Detroit area on how the Bureau can ensure every Michigander is counted fairly and accurately.\u201d\n\n\"I thank Senator Peters for convening this group, and for inviting me to be here to hear directly from Michiganders,\u201d said Director Santos. \u201cIt\u2019s critical for the U.S. Census Bureau to conduct outreach and listen to local communities, all of whom can benefit from our data. I appreciate the ideas and feedback that were shared during these conversations.\"\n\nDuring the visit, Peters and Santos met organizations representing minority communities in Detroit to discuss the census, including successes and challenges, public engagement and communications, and lessons for the U.S. Census Bureau. The meeting discussed ways that the Bureau can do more robust outreach to \u201chard to count\u201d communities.\n\nPeters and Santos concluded the visit in Dearborn by meeting with community members, including leaders of the Arab American community, to discuss their feedback on the census \u2013 as well as the need for the federal government to add a category for people of Middle Eastern or North African (MENA) descent to the federal data gathering standards, including the census. Peters has long pressed for a distinct classification for MENA communities in federal data collection standards to help accurately count this population, address the specific issues they face and appropriately allocate government resources. After Peters\u2019 efforts, the Administration recently announced it will begin a formal review to revise the federal data standards, and is currently conducting public listening sessions.\n\nThe Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, which Peters chairs, is responsible for conducting oversight of the U.S. Census Bureau. In July, Peters convened a field hearing in downtown Detroit to discuss the 2020 Census and its impacts on local communities. He convened a hearing last year with senior federal officials to examine how lawmakers can work to improve operations at the Census Bureau. Peters also led the Senate to confirm Director Santos in 2021. Last Congress, Peters worked to secure additional funding for the 2020 Census and fought to protect the integrity of the census from political interference.\n\nClick the photos below to download high-resolution photos from the visit.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:08:33Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/wednesday-october-5th-office-of-us-senator-gary-peters-to-host-veterans-history-project-event-in-marquette", "WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5th: Office of U.S. Senator Gary Peters to Host Veterans History Project Event in Marquette", "2022-09-26", "2022", "2022-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "MARQUETTE, MI \u2013 The Office of U.S. Senator Gary Peters (MI) will host a Veterans History Project event on Wednesday, October 5th from 2:00PM-7:00PM at the Marquette Regional History Center. The Veterans History Project (VHP) of the Library of Congress American Folklife Center collects, preserves and makes accessible to the American public a national archive featuring the firsthand interviews and narratives of United States military veterans from World War I through the present \u2013 along with the stories of Gold Star families.\n\nThrough the work of Veterans History Project volunteers, the recorded interviews, memoirs and other documents from Michigan veterans will be submitted to the Library of Congress. These stories allow future generations to hear directly from veterans to learn about their stories of service and sacrifice and better understand the realities of war.\n\nVeterans interested in participating in the October 5th Veterans History Project event with Senator Peters\u2019 office should register by clicking here.\n\n\u201cOur nation\u2019s veterans have protected our freedoms, families, and values as Americans. We owe it to them to ensure their stories and experiences live on, which is why I encourage local veterans and Gold Star families to participate in the Veterans History Project by sharing their stories,\u201d said Senator Peters.\n\nPeters, who currently serves on the Senate Armed Services Committee, volunteered for the U.S. Navy Reserve at age 34, where he earned a Seabee Combat Warfare Specialist designation and rose to the rank of Lieutenant Commander. After the September 11th terrorist attacks on our country, he volunteered again for drilling status and served overseas as part of his Reserve duty. Peters is the son of a World War II veteran.\n\nWHO: Office of U.S. Senator Gary Peters\n\nWHAT: Veterans History Project\n\nWHEN: Wednesday, October 5th, 2022\n\n2:00PM \u2013 7:00 PM\n\nWHERE: Marquette Regional History Center\n\n145 West Spring Street\n\nMarquette, MI 49855\n\nVeterans can register to participate and share their stories of service by clicking here.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:08:33Z"], ["https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/peters-stabenow-announce-nearly-143000-in-federal-support-for-freeport-rural-fire-association", "Peters, Stabenow Announce Nearly $143,000 in Federal Support for Freeport Rural Fire Association", "2022-09-23", "2022", "2022-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "MI", "Gary C. Peters", "P000595", "www.peters.senate.gov", "garypeters", "https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 U.S. Senators Gary Peters (MI) and Debbie Stabenow (MI) announced that the Freeport Rural Fire Association will receive a $142,857 federal grant from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS). This funding comes from the Federal Emergency Management Agency\u2019s (FEMA) Assistance to Firefighters Grants (AFG) program \u2013 and will enable the Association to replace all of its existing self-contained breathing apparatuses (SCBA) that will soon become obsolete.\n\n\u201cIt\u2019s important that our fire departments have the resources to purchase necessary safety equipment to continue serving their communities effectively,\u201d said Senator Peters, Chairman of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee. \u201cThis grant will help the Freeport Rural Fire Association Department purchase new equipment needed by firefighters to safely respond to emergencies.\u201d\n\n\u201cOur firefighters put their lives on the line to protect our families, homes, and communities,\u201d said Senator Stabenow. \u201cThese new resources will help keep the public safe and give our first responders the equipment they need to do their jobs more safely and effectively.\u201d\n\nMore information about these grants can be found at: https://www.fema.gov/grants/preparedness/firefighters.\n\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:08:33Z"]], "truncated": false, "filtered_table_rows_count": 88, "expanded_columns": [], "expandable_columns": [], "columns": ["url", "title", "date", "year", "month", "party", "chamber", "state", "member_name", "bioguide_id", "domain", "scraper", "source", "date_source", "text", "has_text", "collected_at", "updated_at"], "primary_keys": ["url"], "units": {}, "query": {"sql": "select url, title, date, year, month, party, chamber, state, member_name, bioguide_id, domain, scraper, source, date_source, text, has_text, collected_at, updated_at from releases where \"chamber\" = :p0 and \"state\" = :p1 and \"year\" = :p2 order by date desc limit 101", "params": {"p0": "Senate", "p1": "MI", "p2": "2022"}}, "facet_results": {"party": {"name": "party", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?chamber=Senate&state=MI&year=2022", "results": [{"value": "Democrat", "label": "Democrat", "count": 88, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=Senate&state=MI&year=2022&party=Democrat", "selected": false}], "truncated": false}, "chamber": {"name": "chamber", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?chamber=Senate&state=MI&year=2022", "results": [{"value": "Senate", "label": "Senate", "count": 88, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=MI&year=2022", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "state": {"name": "state", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?chamber=Senate&state=MI&year=2022", "results": [{"value": "MI", "label": "MI", "count": 88, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=Senate&year=2022", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "year": {"name": "year", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?chamber=Senate&state=MI&year=2022", "results": [{"value": "2022", "label": "2022", "count": 88, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=Senate&state=MI", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}}, "suggested_facets": [], "next": null, "next_url": null, "private": false, "allow_execute_sql": true, "query_ms": 320.10404532775283, "source": "dwillis/congress-press", "source_url": "https://github.com/dwillis/congress-press", "license": "MIT", "license_url": "https://github.com/dwillis/congress-press/blob/main/LICENSE"}