{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where chamber = \"Senate\", state = \"NJ\" and year = 2023 sorted by date descending", "rows": [["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-introduces-resolution-commemorating-50-years-of-the-endangered-species-act", "Booker Introduces Resolution Commemorating 50 Years of the Endangered Species Act", "2023-12-20", "2023", "2023-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) introduced a resolution celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Endangered Species Act (ESA), reaffirming the role this legislation has played in safeguarding global biodiversity. The resolution not only commemorates the invaluable achievements of the ESA over the last five decades, but also underscores the unprecedented threat of the current global extinction crisis and therefore the continued importance of protecting the ESA.\n\nEnacted in 1973, the Endangered Species Act has been a cornerstone of environmental protection efforts, responsible for rescuing 99 percent of wildlife under its shield from the brink of extinction. Now, 50 years later, our world\u2019s wildlife is again at a critical juncture. As a result of human impacts on the environment, we are facing a global mass extinction crisis on par with the events that drove dinosaurs to extinction 65 million years ago. Species today are going extinct thousands of times faster than natural extinction rates, with scientists estimating more than one in six species are at risk of extinction within our lifetime.\n\n\u201cFrom the iconic humpback whale to the majestic grizzly bear and the emblematic bald eagle, the ESA has been instrumental in preserving diverse ecosystems and ensuring the survival of numerous species,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cAs our planet confronts a biodiversity crisis of monumental proportions, we must reinforce legislative efforts to preserve wildlife and counter partisan attacks that threaten the safety of our country\u2019s rich ecosystem.\u201d\n\nThe resolution notes the Endangered Species Act is one of the most successful conservation laws ever enacted by any country, with four out of five U.S. citizens in favor of it. With nearly half of all ecosystems in the United States at risk of total collapse, expanding protections for endangered species is crucial to saving our nation\u2019s treasures. Last month, Co-Chairs of the Endangered Species Act Caucus, Reps. Don Beyer (D-VA-08), Raul M. Grijalva (D-AZ-07) and Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06), introduced the resolution in the House.\n\nSenator Booker has been a champion of endangered species and of the Endangered Species Act, and recently received an award at the ESA@50 celebration at the Library of Congress.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-lynch-introduce-bicameral-bill-to-help-students-earn-their-ged", "Booker, Lynch Introduce Bicameral Bill to Help Students Earn their GED", "2023-12-19", "2023", "2023-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) and U.S. Representative Stephen F. Lynch (D-MA-08) introduced the Reengage the Workforce Act, bicameral legislation which would provide federal grants to organizations that work with students who did not complete high school to help them earn their GED and offer additional workforce training and career support programs. The grants would be created within the Department of Labor, in consultation with the Department of Education, to help facilitate the advancement of education through in-person or virtual programs alongside any necessary support services.\n\n\u201cFor the tens of millions of Americans across the country without a high school diploma, the American dream is becoming increasingly out of reach,\u201d said Senator Booker. Everyone deserves the chance to succeed, which is why I am introducing legislation to help people reconnect with educational opportunities and meaningful career paths. By providing more opportunities for those who are not in school or in the workforce to get back in, we can ensure more people have the tools to build brighter, more promising tomorrows for themselves, their families, and their communities.\u201d\n\n\u201cIt is important we are proactive in reengaging students who have not been able to complete high school and help them obtain the qualifications that will make it easier to join the workforce and support themselves in future,\u201d said Representative Lynch. \u201cWhile the number of students who did not complete high school has fallen in the past decade, the percent of those students that are not in the labor force has increased. This bill will help enable organizations, like the Boston Public Schools Re-engagement Center, better assist those students by allowing them to reenter secondary school with support services, such as transportation or childcare, or enroll in flexible courses to earn their GED.\u201d\n\nAccording to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, individuals who did not finish high school make up the highest percentage of unemployed people in the country and earn $162 less weekly than those who earned their diploma. Establishing this grant program will help organizations dedicated to reengaging students and allow them to offer more critical programs such as life planning workshops, career training, resume reviews and interview assistance.\n\nThe Reengage the Workforce Act is endorsed by Jobs for the Future, the Massachusetts Association of School Committees, National Skills Coalition, The Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies, National", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-statement-on-eve-of-elections-in-the-democratic-republic-of-the-congo", "Booker Statement on Eve of Elections in the Democratic Republic of the Congo", "2023-12-19", "2023", "2023-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on Africa and Global Health Policy, issued the following statement:\n\n\u201cAs the Congolese people head to the polls, it\u2019s imperative that officials in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) respect the democratic process, ensure unimpeded access for election observers, provide a timely and transparent tabulation of votes, publish comprehensive data on election results, and refrain from promoting destabilizing rhetoric or actions that could incite violence or undermine the credibility of the electoral process.\n\n\u201cI recognize efforts by the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) to overcome significant logistical and technical challenges in organizing these elections and have been monitoring ongoing concerns related to voter cards and registration. During this next stage of the electoral process, I urge the CENI to commit to maximum transparency so the Congolese people can have full faith in the election results.\n\n\u201cFurthermore, I support the Biden Administration\u2019s stated intent to use all available tools to ensure accountability for anyone who seeks to undermine the democratic process in the DRC.\n\n\u201cIt\u2019s critical that the Congolese people are able to exercise one of their most fundamental rights\u2014the right to vote\u2014and the Congolese authorities, including CENI, must work to ensure all Congolese are able to exercise this right, through a fair and transparent process.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-and-colleagues-call-on-the-epa-to-protect-children-and-endangered-species-from-rodenticide-poisonings", "Booker and Colleagues Call on the EPA to Protect Children and Endangered Species From Rodenticide Poisonings", "2023-12-15", "2023", "2023-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Alex Padilla (D-C.A.), Peter Welch (D-V.T.),Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), and Ed Markey (D-MA) wrote a letter to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Michael Regan urging the agency to adopt measures to protect children and endangered species from rodenticide poisoning.\n\n\u201cWe thank the EPA for issuing a proposal to strengthen protections for children and non-target species from rodenticides, and urge the EPA to approve strong mitigation measures,\u201d the lawmakers wrote. \u201cThe current allowable use of rodenticides poses a threat to human health and endangered species. Rodenticides are powerful poisons that don\u2019t just kill the target pests, but also kill non-target animals, including pets and predators of rodents. Further, rodenticides that are not properly secured threaten the safety of humans, particularly children, who may be poisoned when exposed to them.\u201d\n\nThe lawmakers detailed the risks of unsecured rodenticides, writing \u201crodenticides pose a risk of poisoning in households where the rodenticides are accessible to children and pets. From 2017-2021, the Centers for Disease Control reported 40,808 poisonings of humans from rodenticides. The majority of these exposures occurred in children under 5 years old.\u201d\n\n\u201cFurther, rodenticides pose a persistent threat to non-target wildlife, especially threatened and endangered species. These poisonings impact predators, such as red-tailed hawks, barn owls, mountain lions, and the critically endangered California Condors, who consume the rodenticides through eating poisoned rodents. Other species, such as squirrels, opossum, raccoons, and the endangered Attwater\u2019s prairie chicken, die by consuming the poison directly.\u201d\n\nThe Senators concluded by calling for a \u201ccareful, scientific review of the broader harms of the current uses of rodenticides, and ways these can be mitigated.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/bookers-schatz-van-hollen-welch-kaine-call-on-biden-to-urge-israeli-egyptian-governments-to-allow-journalists-into-gaza-protect-free-press", "Booker, Schatz, Van Hollen, Welch, Kaine Call on Biden to Urge Israeli, Egyptian Governments to Allow Journalists into Gaza, Protect Free Press", "2023-12-15", "2023", "2023-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Peter Welch (D-VT), and Tim Kaine (D-VA) today called on President Joe Biden to urge the governments of Israel and Egypt to allow journalists into Gaza to cover the war and protect press freedom. They also condemned Hamas\u2019s use of propaganda and harassment, obstruction, and use of physical violence against journalists in Gaza. In their letter to the president, the senators underscored the importance of safe access into Gaza for journalists and the need for accurate and independent reporting from inside the warzone.\n\n\u201cAs Israel addresses legitimate and ongoing threats from Hamas, we ask you to further urge the Israeli government, as well as the Egyptian government, to respect press freedom by allowing all interested journalists to report without restriction from Gaza, with the exception of operational security requirements for embedded journalists, and provide journalists with the appropriate protections to carry out their essential work,\u201d the senators wrote. \u201cWithout protections for journalists in Gaza and access for international journalists, the world is unable to get a complete and accurate understanding of events. Journalists play a vital role in a free society by holding individuals, organizations, and governments accountable for their actions. The lack of transparency caused by limited journalistic access is at odds with the obligation all governments have to allow citizens to access factual information. Especially in a time of rampant mis- and disinformation, journalists both provide the international community with up-to-date news about the war and equip the local population with potentially life-saving information about fast-changing developments.\u201d\n\nThe senators further noted concern that \u201cthe scale of the killings of journalists and media workers is unprecedented in recent times.\u201d\n\nThe senators continued, \u201cAmerican democracy rests on a bedrock commitment to a free press and we must insist on the same from others, including our closest allies and partners. The principles for which the United States advocates send strong messages to foreign governments and help establish essential international norms.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-lankford-propose-establishing-national-monument-in-north-tulsa", "Booker, Lankford Propose Establishing National Monument in North Tulsa", "2023-12-14", "2023", "2023-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and James Lankford (R-OK) introduced legislation to designate the Historic Greenwood area of North Tulsa, Oklahoma, the site of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre, as a national monument.\n\n\u201cOver 100 years ago, a violent mob destroyed the thriving Black neighborhood of Greenwood in Tulsa, Oklahoma, in one of the worst incidents of racial violence in our history,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cWhen I visited Tulsa in 2019, I felt pain and anguish for the hundreds of unarmed men, women, and children who were murdered, the more than 1,250 homes that burned, and for the thousands of victims who survived this act of hatred. Even the darkest chapters of American history deserve to be told. It\u2019s imperative that we act now to ensure that future generations remember Greenwood\u2019s heartbreaking history and its legacy of unrelenting resilience.Establishing a national monument here will forever enshrine this community\u2019s legacy of sorrow, strength, and hope into the fabric of America\u2019s story.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Historic Greenwood District/Black Wall Street area in North Tulsa deserves its place among our nation\u2019s significant historic locations. I have worked with my friends in North Tulsa to secure designations on the National Registry of Historic Places and on the Civil Rights Trail. Now, we are one step closer to establishing a national monument,\u201d said Senator Lankford. \u201cEven after the fateful events in 1921, North Tulsa remains a place of light and hope as the community continues to show their strength to overcome adversity and work toward reconciliation, which is something our nation should never forget. I am grateful for the tireless efforts of so many in North Tulsa and in our state to make sure our children today and the generations yet unborn remember those lost, understand the stain of racism, and learn the powerful story of rebuilding and resilience.\u201d\n\nIn 2019 Senator Booker visited Tulsa, Oklahoma where he toured the Greenwood District, the site of Black Wall Street.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-statement-on-fy-2024-national-defense-authorization-act-conference-report", "Booker Statement on FY 2024 National Defense Authorization Act Conference Report", "2023-12-13", "2023", "2023-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "Washington, DC - U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) issued the following statement:\n\n\u201cThe Fiscal Year 2024 National Defense Authorization Act contained many worthy provisions, including a well-earned pay raise for servicemembers and the Defense Department\u2019s civilian workforce; improved access to housing, health care, and other benefits for military families; and funding for critical projects in New Jersey at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, Atlantic City, Newark, and other locations.\n\n\u201cI remain troubled by Congress continuing to increase the Pentagon\u2019s budget without completing a comprehensive audit to reduce existing levels of financial waste and mismanagement. Strengthening oversight, increasing transparency, and improving accountability at the Pentagon must be a priority, yet, inexplicably, Congress is unwilling to fulfill this obligation..\n\n\u201cThe richest nation in the world can responsibly afford both a modern military that keeps us safe from threats, and vital domestic programs that help families get ahead. This shouldn\u2019t be a choice between one or the other.\n\n\u201cFinally, it\u2019s critical that this legislation authorizes programs and funding to support our international allies and partners during the upcoming fiscal year. However, this legislation is not enough. Congress must take action as soon as possible to provide the necessary emergency assistance to Ukraine and Israel while also providing necessary life-saving assistance to address increasing humanitarian suffering and crises around the world. Supporting the most vulnerable around the world and standing with our international partners is central to America\u2019s national security interests.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-warren-hirono-sanders-and-lawmakers-urge-ftc-to-block-kroger-albertsons-merger-and-reject-flawed-structural-remedies", "Booker, Warren, Hirono, Sanders and Lawmakers Urge FTC to Block Kroger-Albertsons Merger and Reject Flawed Structural Remedies", "2023-12-12", "2023", "2023-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) along with Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), and Reps. Summer Lee (D-PA) and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) sent a letter to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to express their opposition to the proposed merger of major grocery store chains Kroger and Albertsons. The lawmakers explain that despite the companies\u2019 recent proposal to divest 413 stores to C&S Wholesale Grocers (C&S), this merger would still harm consumers, workers, and the grocery industry as a whole. They urge the FTC to oppose the merger, regardless of the proposed divestiture. This letter comes as the FTC\u2019s deadline to act on the merger approaches on December 15, and as shoppers look to save on holiday food prices.\n\nA Kroger-Albertsons merger would net the five largest food retail companies control of 55 percent of all grocery sales, and would result in a duopoly with Walmart, with the two corporations controlling more than 70 percent of the grocery market in over 160 cities across the country. As a result, the newly merged entity could use its dominant position to further control and ultimately raise consumer prices, while also reducing job competition, decreasing wages, and decreasing the bargaining power of organized labor.\n\nA massive grocery merger also increases the risk that firms will violate the Robinson-Patman Act, a longstanding but under-enforced law that prohibits sellers from engaging in price discrimination among different buyers.\n\nIn September 2023, Kroger and Albertsons proposed a structural remedy in which 413 stores and other assets would be acquired by C&S Wholesale Grocers.\n\n\u201cAs Members of Congress have previously raised, structural and behavioral remedies are difficult to administer and enforce and cease to be binding once the term of the agreement ends, and they often fail to maintain competitive conditions because, as stated previously, companies have an incentive to ensure that the businesses they spin off do not succeed. Furthermore, they encourage companies to \u2018litigate the fix\u2019 by proposing remedies during ongoing litigation in order to distract a judge\u2019s focus from the original antitrust violations of the merger. But in addition to these general concerns, past experience with Albertsons\u2019 structural remedies indicates that the new proposal will not cure the anticompetitive harms of the deal,\u201d continued the lawmakers.\n\n\u201cThis merger will harm consumers, workers, farmers, and other food suppliers across the country, and the proposed divestiture will not resolve the concerns. We ask that the FTC should use its authority under the Clayton Act, the Sherman Act, and the Federal Trade Commission Act to prevent the companies from merging,\u201d concluded the lawmakers.\n\nSince Kroger and Albertsons proposed the merger, Senator Booker has expressed concerns about the deal. One year ago, Senator Booker wrote a letter to the Kroger Company CEO Rodney McMullen and Albertsons Companies, Inc. CEO Vivek Sankaran pressing them on diversity and inclusion and urged them to take steps to increase their commitments to address racial and economic disparities as the companies seek to merge. In October 2022, Senators Booker and Klobuchar and Rep. Blumenthal urged the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to investigate the proposed merger between Kroger and Albertsons, voicing concern about this transaction\u2019s potential implications for consumers. In May 2022, Senators Booker, Tester, Merkley and Warren introduced the Food and Agribusiness Merger Moratorium and Antitrust Review Act of 2022, legislation that would place an immediate and indefinite moratorium on acquisitions and mergers in the food and agriculture sector.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-statement-on-ongoing-negotiations-over-supplemental-funding-bill-and-immigration-laws", "Booker Statement on Ongoing Negotiations Over Supplemental Funding Bill and Immigration Laws", "2023-12-11", "2023", "2023-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, issued the following statement:\n\n\u201cLast week, my Republican colleagues voted to block a supplemental package that would have funded 1,300 additional border patrol agents, more than 100 inspection machines to detect fentanyl coming in through ports of entry, 1,600 additional asylum officers to interview and adjudicate claims for asylum, 375 new immigration judge teams to adjudicate and process immigration cases, and $1.4 billion to support local governments in providing food, shelter, and other services to migrants. Each of these provisions would have helped secure the border, provided refuge for migrants fleeing violence and persecution, and would have delivered relief to the border communities and cities across the country that have been most impacted by the increase in migration.\n\n\u201cMy colleagues in Congress and in the administration share the same goals: to create orderly, safe, and humane border and immigration policies that respect our laws and our sovereignty. There are real safety and security issues at the border, and I believe there are solutions that can and must get bipartisan support. We must have a larger conversation about updating our immigration laws, and the way forward must stay true to our nation\u2019s fundamental values.\n\n\u201cRight now, as negotiations on a supplemental funding bill continue, it is critical to recognize that proposals to eliminate or severely reduce access to asylum and parole will not accomplish these goals. Instead, as recent history shows, drastic bans at the border have not served to reduce the number of people seeking refuge from violence in their countries. I hope that my colleagues on both sides of the aisle will adopt commonsense solutions like those proposed in the supplemental and changes to our outdated immigration laws that provide meaningful access to legal pathways to immigration.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-padilla-lieu-introduce-bill-addressing-snap-application-approval-backlog-for-online-grocery-retailers", "Booker, Padilla, Lieu Introduce Bill Addressing SNAP Application Approval Backlog for Online Grocery Retailers", "2023-12-08", "2023", "2023-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-N.J.) and Alex Padilla (D-C.A.) and U.S. Representative Ted Lieu (D-C.A.) introduced the Timely Review of SNAP Online Retailer Applications Act, which would speed up the application review process for online-only grocery retailers. Since its implementation in 2019, the USDA\u2019s Food and Nutrition Service\u2019s (FNS) Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Online Purchasing Pilot has allowed millions of Americans to access healthy affordable groceries, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. While the program has seen significant growth and additions of numerous retail chains to its offerings, online-only retailers without brick-and-mortar storefronts face significant wait times before they are approved. There is currently a backlog of dozens of online only retailer applications that have been waiting over nine months for a USDA determination. This bill would require USDA to make a determination on all online retailer applications within six months. By reducing barriers to entry for smaller online-only retailers, this bill will enable SNAP beneficiaries to shop a wider variety of retailers and access the benefits of online grocery shopping.\n\n\u201cAddressing the backlog in online-only retailer applications is critical to expanding access to essential, nutritious groceries for every household,\" said Senator Booker.\"By setting a six-month processing deadline and requiring a timely USDA review process, we will ensure that eligible online-only retailers are able to quickly start providing fresh fruits and vegetables and other healthy foods to families who may not otherwise have access to these nutritious items.\u201d\n\n\u201cHealthy, affordable groceries should be readily accessible for our millions of SNAP recipients no matter how they shop, whether online or in person. But prolonged delays for SNAP online retailer applications have limited the number of options on the market,\u201d said Senator Padilla. \u201cThis legislation would help expand a crucial, flexible pathway to provide SNAP benefits for the 5 million Californians who receive CalFresh every month.\u201d\n\n\u201cSNAP programs play a vital role in alleviating hunger across the country,\u201d said Congressman Lieu. \u201cHowever, to more fully meet the needs of each household, SNAP beneficiaries deserve access to user-friendly online retail platforms, quick delivery service, and a variety of retailers where they can purchase nutritious food for their family. Online-only grocery retailers are uniquely positioned to operate in underserved communities, including food deserts. Our bill would make it easier for online retailers to begin service in a timely manner and ensure that all American families have reliable access to healthy food. I am glad to join Senator Booker and Senator Padilla in introducing this important bill to support the health and wellbeing of our neighbors.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-reacts-to-gao-report-showing-crop-insurance-program-failing-small-and-diversified-farms-enriching-corporations", "Booker Reacts to GAO Report Showing Crop Insurance Program Failing Small and Diversified Farms, Enriching Corporations", "2023-12-04", "2023", "2023-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, the Government Accountability Office (GAO) issued a report with statistics that reveal how the federal crop insurance program incentivizes the crop insurance industry to service large farms at the expense of small and specialty crop farms. The report also shows that crop insurance companies have been earning an inflated underwriting gain that is significantly higher than other insurance sectors, and that aligning their underwriting gains with a market-based rate of return would save $7.2 billion over 10 years. This reform could fund programs that actually benefit farmers in the next Farm Bill.\n\nU.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.), who requested the GAO report in December of 2021, reacted to the report. Booker is a member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry.\n\n\u201cThis GAO report shows that a shocking proportion of the subsidies intended to support the cost of writing crop insurance policies for all farmers are being eaten up by companies and agents who write policies for the very largest farms. At the same time, the majority of small and diversified specialty crop farms, including many in my state of New Jersey, do not have crop insurance coverage. This means that despite taxpayers spending over $1.5 billion each year to make sure farmers get good service and understand their options in the crop insurance program, the program is still failing small and diversified farms,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cWe need to pass my Insuring Fairness for Family Farmers Act, which would make the A&O subsidy a much more effective tool for incentivizing companies and the crop insurance agents they work with to cover all farm types fairly.\u201d\n\n\u201cSmall and specialty crops are the backbone of our agriculture economy in Oregon. Yet small growers have consistently lagged behind large commercial farms in terms of access to crop insurance,\u201d said Rep. Salinas. \u201cGAO\u2019s report further demonstrates why we need to revisit the way A&O subsidies are calculated. That is exactly what the Insuring Fairness for Family Farmers Act does. Our bill incentivizes crop insurance agents to provide coverage to small family farms\u2014a gamechanger for specialty crop growers in Oregon and across the country. I urge my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to support this critical legislation.\u201d\n\n\u201cOur current approach to crop insurance fails most farmers at an enormous cost to taxpayers. Today\u2019s report highlights the simple fact that by establishing modest payment limits, we can save money while helping small farmers and ranchers who are short changed or left out of the crop insurance program altogether,\u201d said Rep. Blumenaur. \u201cI appreciate Senator Booker\u2019s longtime commitment to a better Farm Bill and look forward to continuing our work together on agricultural policy reform.\u201d\n\nFarmers cannot purchase crop insurance from the USDA, and must do so through private crop insurance companies. These crop insurance companies receive Administrative and Operating (A&O) subsidies from the federal government, which are meant to cover some of the companies\u2019 administrative costs of selling the policies to farmers, especially hiring and contracting crop insurance agents, who work directly with farmers to help them understand their coverage options.\n\nYet, this GAO report confirms that A&O subsidies only incentivize companies and their agents to focus on serving the largest farms. The amount of A&O subsidy a company receives for each policy is based on a set percentage of the premium of the policy sold. The higher the premium, the higher the A&O. In practice, this means that companies get very large A&O subsidies for writing policies for large farms, and very little for writing policies for small farms. The GAO report shows that in 2022, almost half of all policies sold (48%) generated only 6% of the total A&O compensation. On the other hand, the largest 2% of policies accounted for a whopping 36% of total A&O subsidies. While 56% of policies received less than $200 of A&O subsidy per-policy, there were 14 policies that received more than $1 million per policy.\n\nThe result is that many small farms never get the option to purchase crop insurance, because crop insurance agents and companies have little incentive to inform them of their insurance options and allow them to purchase coverage. This is also true of diversified specialty crop farms, which require more complex types of insurance, which require more time and effort for agents to write. With the existing rules on A&O subsidies, companies and agents have no incentive to incur these higher costs to write policies for these farms. As a result, the majority of small and diversified specialty crop farms do not have insurance coverage.\n\nThese GAO statistics highlight the dire need for reform to the A&O subsidy. Senator Booker\u2019s Insuring Fairness for Family Farmers Act (IFFFA) would make A&O a much more effective subsidy for getting farmers coverage, by basing A&O on the complexity of the policy sold, instead of a set percentage of premium. This change would make it so that agents and companies are adequately incentivized to write policies that protect small farms, specialty crop farms, and currently uninsured farms, and are not grossly over-compensated for simply renewing the largest policies year after year.\n\nFurther, the GAO report highlights that crop insurance companies have been making above-market returns on farmer premiums, and that significant savings could be made just by curbing this corporate welfare. The USDA and crop insurance companies share the risk of loss or gain, but in practice, the risk sharing terms deliver an overwhelming majority of gains to companies and an overwhelming majority of the losses to the USDA. This is because the risk-sharing between companies and USDA was designed to yield an underwriting gain to companies of 14.5%. In practice, companies have earned even more--16% gain on average. The companies\u2019 gain of 16% is significantly higher than other insurance sectors, such as the property and casualty sector. GAO determined that a more reasonable market-based rate of return is 10.2%. Making the rate of return market-based would save $7.2 billion over 10 years, without affecting the farmer safety net. These are savings that can be used for programs that directly benefit farmers, particularly in light of an upcoming Farm Bill that is funding constrained.\n\n\u201cToday\u2019s report provides new evidence that our crop insurance system is broken and fails the farmers who need it most. Offshore crop insurance companies, agents writing the policies, and the largest farming operations are the ones who benefit at the expense of farmers and ranchers who work hard to feed their local communities,\u201d said Joe Van Wye, Policy and Outreach Director at Farm Action Fund. \u201cCongress must reform our failing farm safety net by including the Insuring Fairness for Family Farmers Act in the next farm bill. We commend Senator Cory Booker for his ongoing leadership on this issue.\u201d\n\n\"The newest GAO report once again sheds light on spending discrepancies in the federal crop insurance program,\" said Billy Hackett, Policy Specialist at the National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition. \"Taxpayers pay private insurance companies on average $3 billion each year to sell and service policies, but agents are disincentivized from selling coverage to a majority of our country's beginning and diversified farmers growing fruits and vegetables to feed their communities. Most notably, the report debunks concerns that common-sense reforms to modestly reduce subsidies to these companies and high-income farm operations would negatively impact the program's actuarial soundness.\"\n\n\u201cTaxpayers for Common Sense thanks Senator Booker (D-NJ) for helping bring better transparency, accountability, and fiscal responsibility to the highly subsidized federal crop insurance program. With $34 trillion in national debt, U.S. taxpayers cannot afford to be on the hook for guaranteeing handsome profits for private crop insurance companies. Common sense reforms must be adopted in the next Farm Bill,\u201d said Joshua Sewell, Director of Research & Policy, Taxpayers for Common Sense.\n\n\u201cIt\u2019s unfair to the vast majority of farmers \u2013 not to mention taxpayers \u2013 that some farmers are receiving more than $3 million in government subsidies to buy crop insurance. Fourteen times, crop insurance companies earned commissions over $1 million per policy, to cover some of America\u2019s largest farms,\u201d said Scott Faber, Senior Vice President for Government Affairs at Environmental Working Group. \u201cThe case for reform has never been clearer. EWG is proud to endorse Senator Booker\u2019s Insuring Fairness for Family Farmers Act, and calls on Congress to pay attention to how the crop insurance program is enriching a few at the expense of the rest.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/12/04/2023/booker-sullivan-reintroduce-world-aids-day-resolution", "Booker, Sullivan Reintroduce World AIDS Day Resolution", "2023-12-01", "2023", "2023-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, on World AIDS Day, U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Dan Sullivan (R-AK) reintroduced a resolution commemorating and supporting the goals of World AIDS Day, including the goal to achieve zero new HIV infections and AIDS-related deaths. The resolution recognizes current efforts made by the United States and international organizations in combating HIV/AIDS, such as the President`s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), which has saved over 25 million lives. The resolution also encourages greater coordination between the global community to end the HIV epidemic by 2030.\n\n\u201cThis World AIDS Day, we honor the lives lost and stand in solidarity with those living with HIV/AIDS by redoubling our efforts to eradicate this disease,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cThis day continues to stand as a vivid reminder of a staggering reality\u2014nearly 40 million people around the world continue to live with HIV/AIDS, with communities of color disproportionately suffering. The US must continue to be a global leader in the effort to ultimately achieve zero new HIV infections and AIDS-related deaths.\u201d\n\n\u201cDuring my time working in the George W. Bush administration, I helped spearhead the PEPFAR program, which built a global coalition of partners in a unified response to the AIDS crisis and treated nearly 15 million people around the world,\u201d said Senator Sullivan. \u201cSince that time, the United States and the world have made great progress in combatting the HIV/AIDS epidemic, but there is more work to be done. I\u2019m glad to join Senator Booker in introducing a resolution recognizing World AIDS Day to commend the critical work being done to prevent infections, end this devastating disease, and save lives.\u201d\n\nThe resolution was endorsed by the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation, The National Alliance of State & Territorial AIDS Directors, Friends of the Global Fight, The AIDS Institute, RESULTS, NMAC, ONE, and AVAC.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:14:16Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-applauds-advancement-of-judge-edward-kiel-by-senate-judiciary-committee-for-new-jersey-federal-judgeship", "Booker Applauds Advancement of Judge Edward Kiel by Senate Judiciary Committee for New Jersey Federal Judgeship", "2023-11-30", "2023", "2023-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker applauded the vote to advance through the Senate Judiciary Committee the nomination of Judge Edward Kiel to serve on the U.S. District Court of New Jersey. Booker is a member of the committee.\n\n\u201cJudge Kiel is a highly qualified jurist who has dedicated his career to justice, fairness, and the law,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cHis nomination is the full-circle realization of the American Dream: if confirmed, he will serve in the same courthouse where his parents were naturalized as American citizens. I\u2019m confident he will serve New Jersey with integrity and distinction when confirmed by the full Senate.\u201d\n\nJudge Edward S. Kiel has been a United States Magistrate Judge for the District of New Jersey since 2019. Previously, Judge Kiel was a partner at Cole Schotz, P.C. from 2002 to 2019. Before that, he was an associate at Cole Schotz from 1998 to 2001, at Beattie Padovano from 1994 to 1998, and at Jamieson Moore Peskin & Spicer from 1992 to 1994. Judge Kiel served as a law clerk on the Superior Court of New Jersey, Somerset County from 1991 to 1992. He received his J.D. from Notre Dame Law School in 1991 and his B.A. in Economics and B.S. in Electrical Engineering from Rutgers University in 1988. If confirmed, Judge Kiel will serve as the first Korean-American judge on the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-duckworth-statement-on-epa-proposed-strengthening-of-lead-and-copper-rule", "Booker, Duckworth Statement on EPA Proposed Strengthening of Lead and Copper Rule", "2023-11-30", "2023", "2023-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), co-founders of the U.S. Senate Lead Task Force and the Senate Environmental Justice Caucus, today applauded the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency\u2019s (EPA) proposed strengthening of the Lead and Copper Rule (LCR), including lowering the lead action level to better protect human health and requiring water systems to replace old and deteriorating lead pipes within a decade.\n\n\u201cWe applaud the Biden Administration for continuing to prioritize the health of our families by working to strengthen the Lead and Copper Rule. Setting this ambitious goal to remove the vast majority of our nation\u2019s lead pipes within 10 years is a bold action that will help save our children\u2019s future. With no safe level of lead for a child to ingest, we must take action to ensure lead regulations are as strong as possible. All too often lead poisoning disproportionately affects underserved, underfunded communities and communities of color. With this improved rule\u2014along with historic investments from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law\u2014we can make a lead-free future a reality for all, no matter the color or their skin or their zip code.\u201d\n\nThe Bipartisan Infrastructure Law included Duckworth\u2019s Drinking Water and Wastewater Infrastructure Act (DWWIA) and is the most significant federal investment in water infrastructure in history, including $15 billion for national lead pipe replacement. DWWIA, which has a focus on disadvantaged communities, will help rebuild our nation\u2019s crumbling and dangerous water infrastructure and enable communities to repair and modernize their failing wastewater systems. Last year Booker and Duckworth, along with U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL), led a dozen of their Senate colleagues, in calling on EPA to strengthen and enforce the Lead and Copper Rule.\n\nThis month Booker and Duckworth founded the first-ever Senate Lead Task Force to create long-term visibility around the public health crisis of lead and to oversee the state and federal implementation of the lead pipe removal and replacement funding. The Task Force also includes U.S. Senators Dick Durbin (D-IL), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Ben Cardin (D-MD), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) and Ed Markey (D-MA).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-statement-on-hudson-tunnel-project-new-jersey-groundbreaking", "Booker Statement on Hudson Tunnel Project New Jersey Groundbreaking", "2023-11-30", "2023", "2023-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "NEWARK, N.J. \u2014 U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) issued the following statement about the start of construction in New Jersey on the Hudson Tunnel Project, as work begins on the Tonnelle Avenue Bridge and Utility Relocation Project.\n\n\u201cThis is a day to rejoice for every New Jerseyan and every American as we enter a new era for the most critical infrastructure project in our country. Beginning active construction on both sides of the river for the Hudson Tunnel Project is testament to the collective determination\u2014from the Biden Administration and congressional leaders to state officials and other vital partners\u2014to get Gateway done. The economy of our region and our nation depends on the Northeast Corridor and this project, which will modernize our mass transit, improve the lives of millions of commuters, and create thousands of good jobs.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-announces-13m-for-new-jersey-ferry-operations-improvements", "Booker Announces $13M for New Jersey Ferry Operations Improvements", "2023-11-29", "2023", "2023-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "NEWARK, N.J. \u2014 Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) announced $13 million in grants through the Federal Transit Administration\u2019s (FTA) Passenger Ferry Grant Program for New Jersey commuter ferry operations.\n\nThe grants will enable NY Waterway to improve operations and lower emissions, and the City of South Amboy to add operational capacity.\n\n\u201cPassenger ferries play a critical role connecting New Jerseyans to jobs and providing more travel options that get people where they need to go,\u201d said Senator Booker.\u201cThis federal funding will help our ferry operators improve reliability, lower emissions, and increase our economic competitiveness.\u201d\n\n\u201cNew Jersey thanks the Biden Administration and our congressional delegation for their continued efforts to promote accessible and sustainable transportation across the Garden State,\u201d said Governor Phil Murphy. \u201cThis robust funding will enhance capacity and improve connectivity between Central Jersey and our neighbors across the river. Just as importantly, by supporting the conversion of vessels from diesel to battery electric power, these significant federal dollars will help improve the air our children and families breath for generations to come.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe appreciate Senator Booker\u2019s efforts to secure federal funding that complements the New Jersey Department of Transportation\u2019s work to ensure safe navigation and expand transportation access to the region,\u201d said Diane Gutierrez-Scaccetti, NJ Department of Transportation Commissioner. \u201cInvesting in public transportation, such as ferry service, provides commuters an environmentally friendly alternative to driving and is another step forward in achieving Governor Murphy\u2019s climate change goals.\u201d\n\n\u201cSustainability is one of the pillars of NJ TRANSIT\u2019s strategic plan, so we are pleased to support our partners at NY Waterway in advancing their transition to battery-electric power,\u201d said NJ TRANSIT President & CEO Kevin S. Corbett. \u201cI want to thank Senator Booker and the entire Congressional delegation for their work in providing the resources necessary for these critical projects that continue to reduce mass transit\u2019s carbon footprint.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis funding significantly bolsters our continuing efforts to reduce fossil fuel consumption, improve air quality and mitigate noise levels,\u201d said NY Waterway CEO Armand Pohan. \u201cWe are most grateful to the Senator and his team for their unflagging support and to New Jersey Transit for sponsoring this application on our behalf. We look forward to continuing our work together to reach our goal of a 100 percent hybrid fleet over the next decade.\u201d\n\n\u201cIn October South Amboy began ferry service to Manhattan at a temporary site,\u201d said South Amboy Mayor Fred A. Henry. \u201cWe have worked very hard for many years to make this dream a reality. As this service is in operation we will be constructing a permanent facility nearby. With the invaluable help from Senator Booker, Congressman Pallone, and Assembly Speaker Coughlin I wish to thank them for the $6 million grant award from the FTA Passenger Ferry Grant Program. This will allow us to continue and complete this important project, providing alternative transportation to New York and creating good union jobs.\u201d\n\nThe grants are:\n\n$6.9 million to New Jersey Transit on behalf of NY Waterway to convert two vessels from diesel power to battery electric propulsion systems and buy charging equipment to support them. The project will improve service reliability, state of good repair, and improve air quality in the community. Read Booker\u2019s letter in support of this grant here.\n\n$6 million to the City of South Amboy to construct a new floating dock and critical infrastructure needed to complete a new passenger ferry facility designed to add regional service between Central Jersey and Manhattan.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-applauds-confirmation-of-jamel-semper-to-us-district-court-for-the-district-of-new-jersey", "Booker Applauds Confirmation of Jamel Semper to U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey", "2023-11-29", "2023", "2023-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, praised the bipartisan Senate confirmation of Jamel Semper to serve on the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m thrilled that the Senate has confirmed Jamel Semper, an outstanding public servant who has served New Jersey for over 15 years, to the federal bench,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cI have gotten to know Mr. Semper during the nomination process and have reviewed his record closely, and I\u2019m confident in his ability to preside over cases with fairness and integrity. I want to thank my colleagues in the Senate for their bipartisan support and President Biden for the nomination.\u201d\n\nJamel Semper has ably served New Jersey at the state and federal levels as a career criminal prosecutor. He began his career as a judicial law clerk on the Essex County Superior Court, served Essex and Union Counties as a prosecutor, and now serves as the Deputy Chief of the Criminal Division for the U.S. Attorney\u2019s Office for the District of New Jersey, where he supervises federal prosecutors in all phases of criminal investigation and prosecution and supervises the Office\u2019s Violent Crime Initiative, a joint task force of federal, state, and local law enforcement that aims to reduce gun violence in New Jersey communities.\n\nSemper is the ninth judge President Joe Biden has nominated and the Senate has confirmed to the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey, following Julien X. Neals, Zahid Quraishi, Christine O\u2019Hearn, Karen Williams, Georgette Castner, Evelyn Padin, Michael Fabiarz, and Robert Kirsch.\n\nIn recent months, President Biden has also nominated Judge Edward Kiel to the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey and Adeel Abdullah Mangi to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-joins-padilla-and-9-colleagues-to-issue-joint-statement-on-proposed-threats-to-asylum-system-in-supplemental-aid-package-negotiations", "Booker Joins Padilla and 9 Colleagues to Issue Joint Statement on Proposed Threats to Asylum System in Supplemental Aid Package Negotiations", "2023-11-29", "2023", "2023-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, joined senators Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Chair of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Immigration, Citizenship, and Border Safety, Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n (D-N.M.), Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) in issuing the following joint statement in response to reports of potentially harmful changes to the U.S. asylum system being considered in the ongoing bipartisan negotiations around the supplemental aid package:\n\n\u201cAs negotiations surrounding the supplemental aid package progress, we are concerned about reports of harmful changes to our asylum system that will potentially deny lifesaving humanitarian protection for vulnerable people, including children, and fail to deliver any meaningful improvement to the situation at the border. Using a one-time spending package to enact these unrelated permanent policy changes sets a dangerous precedent and risks assistance to our international partners. Any proposal considering permanent changes to our asylum and immigration system needs to include a clear path to legalization for long-standing undocumented immigrants.\n\n\u201cWe remain committed to working in good faith to modernize our outdated immigration system on a bipartisan basis and through a deliberative process. We cannot truly secure our border and help American communities without increasing lawful pathways for migration and legalizing long-time undocumented immigrants who put food on our tables, care for our elderly, and form the fabric of our communities.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/with-thanksgiving-approaching-senators-booker-and-markey-announce-legislation-to-improve-food-safety-and-hold-fda-accountable", "With Thanksgiving Approaching, Senators Booker and Markey Announce Legislation to Improve Food Safety and Hold FDA Accountable", "2023-11-21", "2023", "2023-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C.\u2013 Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.) joined Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass) to announce the?Ensuring Safe and Toxic-Free Foods Act, legislation that would direct the Department of Health and Human Services\u2019 (HHS) Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to strengthen the Substances Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) Rule, which exempts companies from seeking pre-market approval for food chemicals. The legislation would also direct the Secretary of HHS to create an Office of Food Chemical Safety, Dietary Supplements, and Innovation within FDA to reassess whether existing GRAS substances are safe for families to consume. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) are cosponsors of the legislation.\n\n\u201cFood companies have been taking advantage of a major gap in US food safety laws to add new chemicals to foods without an independent, scientific review of those additives\u2019 safety. As a result, thousands of food products in the United States contain additives that have been banned in other countries for being carcinogenic, endocrine-disrupting, or developmentally harmful,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cAmericans should not have to eat foods with ingredients that have known health harms. This legislation will close the loophole that allows companies to use toxic substances in foods and food packaging.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe only mystery families should encounter at mealtime is what\u2019s for dinner, not what\u2019s in dinner.?Americans deserve to know that the food at their Thanksgiving dinner on the kitchen table is safe for themselves, their families, and loved ones to eat,\u201d?said Senator Markey.?\u201cOur legislation ensures that the FDA doesn\u2019t fall short on their responsibility to ensure that the food we eat is safe. It is long past time that we revise existing food safety measures and close the loophole by allowing manufacturers to self-regulate what new substances can enter our food supply.\u201d\n\nA one-page summary of the legislation can be found?HERE.\n\nSpecifically, the?Ensuring Safe and Toxic-Free Foods Act?would?direct the FDA to revise the GRAS Rule to include provisions that:\n\nProhibit manufacturers from designating substances as safe?without supplying proper notice and supporting information to the Secretary of HHS.\n\nRequire safety information be publicly available on the FDA website and subject to a 90-day public review period.\n\nProhibit carcinogenic substances from receiving GRAS designation.\n\nProhibit substances that show evidence of reproductive or developmental toxicity from receiving GRAS designation.\n\nProhibit people with conflicts of interest from serving as experts in reviewing and evaluating scientific data regarding GRAS designations.\n\nCreate a procedure of reassessment for substances receiving previous GRAS designations.\n\nThe?Ensuring Safe and Toxic-Free Foods Act?is endorsed by the Environmental Working Group, the Center for Science in the Public Interest,?Environmental Defense Fund, Breast Cancer Prevention Partners, and Earthjustice.\n\n\u201cToxic chemicals have no place in our food, especially chemicals linked to cancer,\u201d said Scott Faber, Senior Vice President for Government Affairs at the Environmental Working Group. \u201cEWG applauds Senator Markey for once again putting the health of our families ahead of the profits of chemical companies.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Ensuring Safe and Toxic Free Foods Act addresses two critical shortcomings of FDA\u2019s program to protect consumers from additives to food: the Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) loophole that allows new chemicals to be added to food without FDA review and the lack of a system to reassess past agency actions for additives we now recognize as unsafe. We applaud Senator Markey for his ongoing leadership on this important public health issue,\u201d Tom Neltner, Senior Director of Safer Chemicals at Environmental Defense Fund.\n\n\u201cChemicals linked to cancer and other serious health problems are in our daily food \u2013 leaching from the packaging and processing materials.? This is unacceptable, and why we support the Ensuring Safe and Toxic-Free Foods Act, said Lisette Van Vliet, [Senior Policy Coordinator] at Breast Cancer Prevention Partners. This important legislation will close a federal loophole that allows companies to secretly use toxic chemicals for food packaging and processing without FDA oversight or approval.\u201d\n\n\u201cConsumers rightfully expect the Food and Drug Administration \u2013 not industry \u2013 to ensure that the food we feed our families is safe. Earthjustice is grateful for the continued leadership of Senator Markey in his reintroduction of the Ensuring Safe and Toxic-Free Foods Act to help turn that expectation into reality. This vital legislation will finally fix a system that has allowed thousands of chemicals into our food that have never been scrutinized by the FDA. For decades, the agency has allowed companies to make safety determinations on their own and in secret. This must stop. Critically, this bill will also require the FDA to use the best available science to review the safety of harmful food chemicals already in commerce. It is long past time for the United States to join the rest of the modern world in protecting its consumers from harmful chemicals in food. Let\u2019s get this done,\u201d said Daniel Savery, Senior Legislative Representative at Earthjustice.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-and-goldman-push-biden-administration-to-address-israeli-settler-violence-in-the-west-bank", "Booker and Goldman Push Biden Administration to Address Israeli Settler Violence in the West Bank", "2023-11-16", "2023", "2023-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "Washington, DC\u2013 Senator Cory Booker (D- NJ) and Representative Dan Goldman (D-NY-10) today called on President Joe Biden and his administration to not lose sight of the increasing danger posed by Israeli settler violence in the West Bank. As the Israeli government responds to legitimate threats from Hamas, Hezbollah, and others, Goldman and Booker are urging the Biden Administration to make clear to our Israeli allies that extremist settler violence poses a direct threat to the objectives of preventing the war from escalating into a wider regional conflict, protecting innocent Israeli and Palestinian civilians, and facilitating the flow of desperately needed humanitarian assistance.\n\nRepresentative Goldman and Senator Booker were the only two members of Congress who were in Israel when Hamas attacked on October 7.\n\nSince October 7, daily settler violence against Palestinian civilians has increased by over 130 percent.\n\n\u201cAs your administration tirelessly works to prevent the expansion of this conflict, we write to specifically highlight the threat that violence in the West Bank \u2013 especially vigilante violence by Israeli settlers \u2013 poses to those efforts, Israel\u2019s near-term security, Palestinian human rights, and long-term regional peace,\u201d the members wrote.\n\nCongressman Goldman and Senator Booker warned that settler violence in the West Bank not only pose a grave threat to an immediate peace deal, but the long-term prospect of peace through a two-state solution as well. Whether it be the Palestinian Authority or another entity, Goldman and Booker believe that any government in the West Bank and Gaza will require intense international support, reforms, and legitimacy to deliver for the Palestinian people.\n\n\u201cWe strongly believe that a two-state solution remains the only genuine option to achieve a just, secure, and prosperous future for both Israelis and Palestinians,\u201d the members continued. \u201cHowever, settler violence against Palestinian civilians destroys the very seeds of trust and cooperation needed to make progress toward a two-state outcome and an enduring peace in the region. For example, settler violence presents a significant challenge to the viability of the Palestinian Authority (PA), a critical partner for West Bank security, the future of Gaza, and regional peace efforts.\u201d\n\nThe members also wrote expressing concern that members of the Israeli government has not done enough to curb settler violence or to stop U.S. provided weapons from being by settlers to target innocent Palestinian civilians in the West Bank.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-applauds-historic-nomination-of-adeel-abdullah-mangi-to-us-third-circuit-court-of-appeals", "Booker Applauds Historic Nomination of Adeel Abdullah Mangi to U.S. Third Circuit Court of Appeals", "2023-11-15", "2023", "2023-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker, a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, applauded President Biden\u2019s nomination of Adeel Abdullah Mangi to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit. If confirmed, Mangi would be the first Muslim American to serve as a federal appellate court judge.\n\n\u201cHaving come to know Adeel Mangi over the years as a fixture in the New Jersey legal community, I have seen firsthand that he is a person of integrity and deep conviction with an unflinching commitment to fairness and equality,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cHe represents the best of New Jersey: Mangi is a preeminent lawyer who has secured landmark legal victories, and I have the utmost faith in his ability to serve the people of New Jersey and our country fairly and impartially on the Third Circuit Court of Appeals. I thank President Biden for this historic nomination, and I look forward to introducing Adeel Mangi to my colleagues on the Senate Judiciary Committee for his hearing.\u201d\n\nA resident of Jersey City for over 20 years, Adeel Mangi is a Partner at Patterson Belknap Webb & Tyler in New York. Born in Karachi, Pakistan, Mangi received his B.A./Law degree, First Class, from the University of Oxford in 1998. He attended Lincoln\u2019s Inn and the Inns of Court School of Law in London and qualified as a British Barrister at Law in 1999. He received his LL.M from Harvard Law School in 2000 and has since worked at Patterson as a civil litigator representing an array of clients in complex high-stakes cases. He has devoted thousands of hours to pro bono service, filed numerous amicus briefs in the federal appellate courts and before the U.S. Supreme Court on behalf of cross-faith religious coalitions, and, among his many other legal accomplishments, successfully fought on behalf of Muslim communities seeking to build and open mosques in Bernards Township and Bayonne.\n\nThe nomination comes two years after Booker spoke in support of and voted to confirm the first Muslim-American federal judge to the federal bench, Zahid Quraishi, who now serves on the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey. Booker also voted this summer to confirm the first female Muslim-American federal judge, Nusrat Choudhury.\n\nThe United States Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit serves New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, and the Virgin Islands.\n\nPresident Joe Biden has nominated and the Senate has confirmed eight judges to the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey: Judges Julien X. Neals, Zahid Quraishi, Christine O\u2019Hearn, Karen Williams, Georgette Castner, Evelyn Padin, Michael Fabiarz, and Robert Kirsch. In recent months, President Biden nominated Jamel Semper and Edward Kiel to the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey and Senator Booker spoke in support of their nominations.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/senators-booker-durbin-hirono-and-representatives-lee-castro-jayapal-and-urge-biden-administration-to-expand-health-coverage-to-daca-recipients", "Senators Booker, Durbin, Hirono and Representatives Lee, Castro, Jayapal and Urge Biden Administration to Expand Health Coverage to DACA Recipients", "2023-11-15", "2023", "2023-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2013 Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Dick Durbin (D-IL), and Mazie Hirono (D-HI) joined with Representatives Barbara Lee (CA-12), Joaquin Castro (TX-20), and Pramila Jayapal (WA-07) to call on the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to finalize their proposed rule to expand health coverage for those participating in the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) program, crime victims, and immigrant children.\n\nIn April 2023, the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) proposed a regulation to make DACA recipients eligible for coverage under Medicaid, the Affordable Care Act (ACA), and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP). This rule also enhances coverage for other groups, including those approved for Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) status and children applying for humanitarian relief. If this rule is not soon finalized, individuals in need may not be able to fully benefit from the 2024 Affordable Care Act open enrollment period, which began on November 1, 2023.\n\n\u201cDACA recipients are also disproportionately uninsured and tend to experience higher barriers to health care \u2013 these trends all contribute to racial health disparities in the U.S. Youth approved for Special Immigrant Juvenile (SIJ) status often have to wait years before receiving a status adjustment. Due to confusion around current rule implementation, access to health coverage has been delayed for many,\u201d wrote the lawmakers.\n\nThe lawmakers requested that the Biden Administration address the following questions:\n\nWhat is preventing HHS from finalizing the rule, and how can congressional allies help address any barriers?\n\nWhen the rule is finalized, what resources will your administration devote to ensuring newly eligible people are aware of their health coverage options? The preamble of the proposed rule stated, \u201cimplementation of these changes would be most effective during a period when there are many outreach and enrollment activities occurring.\u201d The time to finalize this policy and expand health coverage is now.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-castro-introduce-bicameral-bill-to-expand-advanced-coursework-opportunities-for-underrepresented-students", "Booker, Castro Introduce Bicameral Bill to Expand Advanced Coursework Opportunities for Underrepresented Students", "2023-11-14", "2023", "2023-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Representative Joaquin Castro (D-TX-20) introduced the Advanced Coursework Equity Act, bicameral legislation that would create a federal grant program to help states and school districts increase the enrollment of underrepresented students in advanced coursework and academic programs. The Advanced Coursework Equity Act would allow eligible schools and school districts to receive up to $60 million to implement universal screening for advanced students, expand enrollment in advanced courses, cover course fees for low-income students, train or hire teachers for advanced courses, prepare students for postsecondary STEM pathways, and create or expand related efforts.\n\nBlack, Latino, and Native American students, students from low-income families, English learners, and students with disabilities are underrepresented in advanced programs and courses. While 1 in 10 students in American schools participate in the Advanced Placement (AP) program, just over 1 in 20 low-income, Black, and Native American students participate in these courses. A low-income student with reading and math achievement levels equal to those of a high-income student is half as likely to receive gifted services.\n\n\u201cBlack, Latino, and Native American students face structural barriers that often prevent them from taking advantage of advanced courses and programs,\u201d said Sen. Booker. \u201cWe know that gifted and talented programs as well as advanced coursework in high school can change life trajectories. By expanding enrollment of underrepresented students in advanced courses and covering exam fees, we can ensure that more young people are able to realize their full potential.\u201d\n\n\u201cWhen I got to Stanford in the fall of 1996, I met students who racked up dozens of college credits through advanced coursework before they ever stepped foot on campus. In the mostly Latino and low-income San Antonio neighborhoods where I grew up, few students had the same chance to prepare for college success,\u201d said Rep. Castro. \u201cWhile remarkable talent exists in every school and community, equal opportunity does not. I\u2019m proud to work with Senator Booker and our coalition partners to introduce this important piece of legislation, which will help schools identify and support brilliant students with the rigorous coursework they deserve.\u201d\n\nThe Advanced Coursework Equity Act would authorize $800 million in grants up to $60 million over three years to address equity gaps in enrollment and performance in advanced programs and courses through efforts including:\n\n\u2022 Implementing open enrollment, universal screening for all advanced courses and programs.\n\n\u2022 Expanding enrollment in advanced courses and programs, including by launching new courses.\n\n\u2022 Purchasing curriculum & materials for advanced courses & covering course fees of low-income students.\n\n\u2022 Provide direct services, such as tutoring.\n\n\u2022 Training or hiring teachers to teach advanced courses.\n\n\u2022 Implement programs and activities to improve student preparation and participation in postsecondary STEM pathways.\n\nThe Advanced Coursework Equity Act is supported by The Education Trust, Latinos for Education, the National Association for Gifted Children, the National Urban League, the National Education Association, the American Federation of Teachers, the College Board, E3 Alliance, Advanced CTE, the National Center for Learning Disabilities, All4ED, and the Council for Exceptional Children.\n\nThe full text of the bill is available here.\n\n\u201cDespite the growing importance of STEM education for students\u2019 long-term success in college and career, millions of students, particularly Black and Latino students, face systemic barriers accessing advanced courses in middle and high school,\u201d said Denise Forte, president, and CEO of EdTrust. \u201cOur research is clear: Black and Latino students are successful in advanced coursework when given the opportunity. However, myriad obstacles, including resource inequities and educator bias, prevent these students from enrolling in advanced classes, such as eighth grade Algebra, dual enrollment, advanced placement, and international baccalaureate coursework. Oftentimes, schools that serve Black and Latino students and those from low-income backgrounds do not even offer these courses. The Advanced Coursework Equity Act, led by Senator Cory Booker and Congressman Joaquin Castro, is essential legislation that would help address these barriers by increasing the enrollment and supporting the performance of underrepresented students in advanced courses. Ed Trust is proud to endorse this legislation. We urge Congress to advance this bill immediately and make real the promise of education equity for our nation\u2019s most underserved students,\u201d said Denise Forte, president and CEO of The Education Trust.\n\n\u201cLatino students make up nearly 30 percent of our student population and will shape our nation\u2019s economy and workforce for generations to come. Therefore, it is an economic imperative to provide them with equitable access to rigorous courses that prepare them for college and successful careers in teaching and other professions,\u201d said Amanda Fernandez, CEO and Founder of Latinos for Education. \u201cAdvanced coursework like early college and dual enrollment classes increase the likelihood that students will enroll in and complete college, yet too few Latino students are given the opportunity to participate in these courses. The Advanced Coursework Equity Act will help school districts and states increase Latino enrollment in advanced coursework and make college more attainable for Latinos.\u201d\n\n\u201cEvery student in America deserves a quality public school where they can access knowledge and opportunity, and grow academically, socially and emotionally. But as long as advanced course exams and materials are locked up behind high fees, that opportunity will be restricted to certain tax brackets. Access to advanced courses should not be cost-prohibitive because it sabotages our kids\u2019 development and goes against the foundational idea of free public education. Rep. Castro\u2019s and Senator Booker\u2019s Advanced Coursework Equity Act will ensure that all students have access to advanced courses, regardless of whether they or their families can afford the cost of exams and materials. It will also equip more students with real solutions to tackle learning loss, loneliness and literacy challenges, including STEM skills. And it will help schools hire, train and retain diverse educators, school counselors and school staff, and engage parents and families in the daily work to help all students succeed, both in school and beyond,\u201d said Randi Weingarten, president of the American Federation of Teachers.\n\n\u201cProviding opportunities for all students to take and benefit from advanced courses, regardless of their socioeconomic status or zip code, is a strong step forward on the path towards equity in our nation's schools. NAGC is proud to support this critical piece of equity-centered legislation that will help ensure any student who wants to challenge themselves with rigorous coursework can,\u201d said John Segota, Executive Director of the National Association for Gifted Children.\n\n\u201cCollege Board strongly supports the Advanced Coursework Equity Act and its commitment to increasing access to advanced courses for underrepresented students. The bill will ensure that students from all backgrounds have the opportunity to take rigorous courses and earn college credit while in high school, setting them on a path to success,\u201d said Michelle Arnold, Vice President of Government Relations & Advocacy at The College Board.\n\n\u201cE3 Alliance research has found that students who take four years of math in high school are twice as likely to get a postsecondary credential, such as a certificate or degree. Students whose fourth year of math is a college-aligned course are six times as likely to get a postsecondary credential, driving economic mobility for the next generation. This is especially true for students from communities that are traditionally marginalized, with math success paving the way for higher-paying jobs that require a postsecondary credential. Congressman Castro and Senator Booker\u2019s bill, which promotes equity in advanced coursework and programs at elementary and secondary schools, is a bold step forward for our education system. It is a policy based on evidence, equity and opportunity. It is a policy that will help ensure that all students have the chance to reach their full potential and pave the way for economic mobility across the United States,\u201d said Jennifer Cavazos Saenz, Senior Director, Communications and Policy at the E3 Alliance.\n\n\"Every learner deserves access to experiences that provide pathways to in-demand fields and opportunities to jumpstart preparation for postsecondary education. Advance CTE supports the Advanced Coursework Equity Act's intentional focus on providing the resources necessary to make this a reality for schools and districts that need it the most. These elements are essential to remove barriers for marginalized learners to access early postsecondary opportunities which are a hallmark of high-quality Career Technical Education programs, and we thank Representative Castro and Senator Booker for their leadership on this legislation,\u201d said Kate Kreamer, Executive Director of Advanced CTE.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/ahead-of-veterans-day-booker-introduces-legislation-to-promote-housing-stability-among-low-income-veteran-families", "Ahead of Veterans Day, Booker Introduces Legislation to Promote Housing Stability Among Low-Income Veteran Families", "2023-11-09", "2023", "2023-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC. \u2013 Ahead of Veterans Day, U.S. Senator Cory Booker today introduced the Supportive Services for National Guard and Reserve Component Veterans and Families Act, legislation that would expand the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) program to include former members of the National Guard and Reserves who have retired or separated from service after having served a term of enlistment. Established in 2011, the SSVF program promotes housing stability among very low-income veteran families who reside in or are transitioning to permanent housing. The program has helped decrease veteran homelessness by 50% and has assisted 850,000 veterans and their families by permanently housing, rapidly rehousing, or preventing them from becoming homeless. However, under the program\u2019s current guidelines, many former members of the National Guard and Reserve Component who were not activated for federal active-duty military service while serving, are ineligible for the program.\n\n\u201cThe SSVF program has provided critical housing assistance to former servicemembers during their times of need, reducing veteran homelessness rates by 50 percent and assisting some of our most vulnerable veterans during the COVID-19 pandemic,\u201d said Sen. Booker. \u201cYet, despite the program\u2019s success, veterans of the National Guard and Reserves are unable to take advantage of its benefits even though they have sacrificed for this nation. This bill would remove this barrier, expanding eligibility to this vital program so that more veterans and their families can access the resources they deserve.\u201d\n\n\u201cReserve and National Guard service members stand ready to deploy at a moment\u2019s notice to serve their country and state at home and abroad,\u201d said David Pearson, Co-Chair NJ SOS Veteran Stakeholders and Assistant Director Catholic Charities Veterans Services. \u201cWe owe them and their families resources to ensure that none of them experience homelessness. NJ SOS Veteran Stakeholders and Catholic Charities thank Senator Booker for introducing legislating to expand Supportive Services for Very Low-Income Veteran Families (SSVF) to include those who have served in the National Guard and Reserves.\u201d\n\nIn addition to expanding eligibility of the SSVF program, the legislation would also require the Secretary of Defense to submit an annual report to Congress detailing food and housing insecurity experienced by current reserve component service members, across all seven components of the Reserves and National Guard.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/ahead-of-veterans-day-booker-releases-updated-resource-handbook-for-new-jersey-vets", "Ahead of Veterans Day, Booker Releases Updated Resource Handbook for New Jersey Vets", "2023-11-09", "2023", "2023-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "NEWARK, N.J. \u2013 Ahead of Veterans Day this weekend, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) today unveiled his 2024 Veterans Handbook, an updated version of his annual, comprehensive resource guide for New Jersey veterans and their families. The handbook, available online here, is designed to help New Jersey veterans with the transition from military to civilian life and includes information on health benefits, workforce centers, employment opportunities, federal and state education programs, crisis support services, and more.\n\n\u201cAfter being elected to the United States Senate 10 years ago, one of the very first meetings I had as a Senator was with a group of New Jersey veterans,\u201d said Sen. Booker. \u201cWe must remain committed to honoring the incredible service and sacrifices made by veterans and their families. I\u2019m proud to have played a part in passing legislation that will close critical gaps in education benefits; increase access to timely, quality, and inclusive healthcare options; expand access to VA housing assistance programs; and help veterans whose health was forever affected by exposure to toxic burn pits. Ahead of Veterans Day, I am proud to release an updated version of this annual handbook that provides the latest information on how New Jersey veterans and their loved ones can access critical resources.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-announces-45-billion-for-new-jersey-northeast-corridor-transit-improvements-including-gateway", "Booker Announces $4.5 Billion for New Jersey, Northeast Corridor Transit Improvements, Including Gateway", "2023-11-06", "2023", "2023-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "NEWARK, N.J. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) announced $4.5 billion in federal funding for mass transit improvements in New Jersey and the region, including historic investments in the Gateway Program and the modernization of Newark Penn Station.\n\nJoining Booker at Newark Penn Station on Monday morning for the announcement were Representative Rob Menendez, Jr. (D-NJ), Newark Mayor Ras J. Baraka, NJ Transit President and CEO Kevin S. Corbett, and Gateway Development Commission CEO Kris Kolluri.\n\nThe funding\u2014authorized by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021, which Booker voted to support\u2014includes $3.8 billion for the Hudson River Tunnel, a key component of the Gateway Program; $300 million to rehabilitate the 90-year-old, six-track Dock Bridge over the Passaic River, also part of the Gateway Program; and $59 million to improve passenger circulation at Newark Penn Station, a critical hub in the Northeast Corridor.\n\n\u201cThis large round of mass transit investments will pay dividends for generations to come, helping push Gateway toward completion and strengthening regional connectivity,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cThanks to this funding, we will upgrade decades-old infrastructure and help modernize our mass transit system, to the benefit of the lives of millions of commuters. These investments will also spur economic growth and create thousands of jobs for New Jerseyans. I will continue to work with the Biden Administration and congressional colleagues to deliver funding to rebuild New Jersey\u2019s and our region\u2019s transportation infrastructure.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis generous award, made possible by the Biden Administration\u2019s Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, allows us to significantly advance two major infrastructure projects that have long languished prior to the Murphy Administration,\u201d said NJ Transit President and CEO Kevin S. Corbett. \u201cDelco Lead and Newark Penn Station are just two of the more than 100 vital projects within our $17 Billion Five-Year Capital Plan, transforming our transit system and the customer experience for generations to come. We are grateful to the USDOT and the Federal Railroad Administration for this critical funding, and thank Senator Booker and our entire Congressional delegation for their tireless advocacy for public transportation in New Jersey.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Hudson Tunnel is the most urgent infrastructure project in the nation, and that urgency starts in New Jersey,\u201d said Kris Kolluri, CEO of the Gateway Development Commission. \u201cThe project will finally bring a 21st century, reliable, resilient ride for hundreds of thousands of commuters and riders in our region every single day. We're beyond grateful to Senator Booker, Governors Murphy and Hochul, and our entire delegation for delivering an unprecedented federal funding commitment that will make the tunnel a reality.\"\n\n\u201cI am extremely excited that the Biden Administration will award $4.48 billion in federal funding to improve New Jersey\u2019s infrastructure, including the $3.8 billion for the new Hudson River Tunnel,\u201d said Rep. Donald M. Payne, Jr., Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Railroads, Pipelines, and Hazardous Materials for the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. \u201cWhen I was Chairman of the Railroad Subcommittee for the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, I helped write the bill that became the $1.2 trillion Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and fought to add $66 billion to it for critical transportation projects, such as the Gateway Program. Also, I have worked diligently to secure $3 billion for the program in other appropriations bills and discuss the project with Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg constantly. The Hudson River Tunnel is the most important infrastructure project in the country. The current tunnel is 113 years old and needs to be replaced because any service disruptions could disrupt travel for 200,000 daily passengers. This is a great day for New Jersey!\u201d\n\n\u201cToday, I am proud to announce over $4 billion in Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act funding that will transform the passenger experience along the Northeast Corridor,\u201d said Congressman Menendez. \u201cThese funds will make the nation\u2019s busiest rail line more resilient and reliable for the millions of passengers that use it every year. Thanks to the partnership of the Biden Administration, Governor Murphy, and our Congressional Delegation, this is the start of a new era of infrastructure investment.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis announcement highlights the importance of government\u2019s attention to infrastructure as an essential step toward conscientious stewardship of the planet. By strengthening our transportation network, and particularly our rail system, we promote sustainability, fuel conservation and efficiency, and a cleaner environment,\u201d said Mayor Baraka. \u201cNewark is grateful to the Biden Administration, Senator Booker, and Representative Menendez for enabling these critical improvements to our metropolitan region that specifically bolster Newark\u2019s role as a major eastern corridor transportation hub, etch an effortless pathway between Newark and Manhattan, and support our initiatives to become a more walkable city.\u201d\n\nThis funding announcement comes months after the U.S. Department of Transportation announced $6.88 billion in federal funds to the Hudson River Tunnel project, the largest-ever federal investment in mass transit. The federal investment in the Gateway Program now exceeds $11 billion.\n\nThe New Jersey and regional projects receiving funding are:\n\n$3,799,999,820 to Gateway Development Commission for the Hudson Tunnel Project: The proposed project includes final design and construction activities of the Hudson River Tunnel project and rehabilitation of the existing North River tunnels. Construction will include systems and fit out work in the tunnels, including installation of track, signals, traction power, ventilation, and fire and life safety systems. Design support, design management, and construction management will support the overall project, including tunneling and heavy civil engineering work, the New Jersey surface alignment, and rehabilitation of the existing North River Tunnel.\n\n$300,184,000 to Amtrak for the Dock Bridge Rehabilitation in Newark and Harrison: The proposed project includes construction for rehabilitation of the Dock Bridge, which crosses the Passaic River between Newark and Harrison. The 90-year-old, six-track, steel through-truss bridge will undergo repair of the structural steel, installation of straight steel rails to replace moveable miter rails, repair to concrete piers and fender replacement, and installation of a targeted anti-corrosion protection system to slow or stop future degradation to the bridge structure. The project will improve operations for Amtrak's intercity services, as well as New Jersey Transit commuter services and Port Authority of New York and New Jersey Port Authority Trans-Hudson transit service.\n\n$133,327,610 to Amtrak for the Sawtooth Bridges Replacement Enabling Components Project in Kearny: The project involves construction of early-action, critical-path activities for the Sawtooth Bridges Replacement project and includes utility relocations, catenary and aerial signal relocations, removal and replacement of the current crossover between the New Jersey Transit Morris & Essex Line and Conrail Center Street Branch, site access improvements, and property acquisition from Conrail. Completing the early action items is anticipated to accelerate the overall Sawtooth Bridges Replacement Project schedule by at least two years.\n\n$180,902,767 to NJ Transit for the Delco Lead project in New Brunswick: The project includes a new service and inspection facility, crew quarters, equipment storage space, and the 3.5-mile Delco Lead track itself, which provides capacity to store approximately 300 rail cars. Construction of the new facilities will reduce New Jersey Transit train volumes through Trenton Station, reducing congestion and delays in this area of the Northeast Corridor. State-of-good-repair benefits, including improved drainage, signal upgrades, and catenary upgrades to the Northeast Corridor main line will occur in the project area. The project would enable subsequent Northeast Corridor chokepoint relief projects in New Jersey.\n\n$59,200,000 to NJ Transit for Newark Penn Station Vertical Circulation Improvements: The proposed project includes final design and construction to upgrade, rehabilitate, or replace 11 elevators and 17 escalators within Newark Penn Station. The project will improve accessibility and overall passenger circulation throughout the station, which serves Amtrak\u2019s Northeast Corridor services, New Jersey Transit\u2019s commuter rail network and local transit services, and the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey\u2019s Port Authority Trans-Hudson transit service.\n\n$21,600,000 to Amtrak to examine opportunities to increase speeds and reduce travel time between Washington, DC and New York City: The project includes a planning study to identify needs and opportunities to improve service, including operating speeds through on-corridor or adjacent-to-corridor infrastructure improvements along the Northeast Corridor between Washington, DC, and northern New Jersey. The study will inform the planning of improvements to benefit Amtrak\u2019s intercity services, with potential benefits to commuter service operators in Maryland, Delaware, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey.\n\nThe grants are part of more than $16 billion announced today by the Federal Railroad Administration to 25 projects in seven states and the District of Columbia under the Fiscal Year 2022-2023 Northeast Corridor (NEC) Federal-State Partnership for Intercity Passenger Rail.\n\nThe Hudson River Tunnel project is part of the Gateway Program, a series of strategic infrastructure investments designed to improve rail service in New York and New Jersey. The Hudson River Tunnel project is particularly critical because the existing North River Tunnel serving Penn Station is more than 110 years old and was severely damaged during Superstorm Sandy in 2012. While the tunnel has been repaired frequently, its age and damaged condition present reliability concerns for more than 200,000 people who travel through the tunnel on more than 400 trains every weekday. According to a study by the Northeast Corridor Commission, commuters in 2020 were delayed more than 210 hours due to maintenance issues.\n\nThe Hudson River Tunnel project will build a new two-track rail tunnel from the Bergen Palisades in New Jersey to Manhattan, directly serving New York Penn Station and rehabilitating the existing North River Tunnel. Additionally, as part of the construction, nearly 5,000 new affordable housing units will be created in the adjacent Hudson Yards. The project will improve New Jersey Transit and Amtrak service for a region that impacts more than 20 percent of the nation\u2019s economy. If the North River tunnel were to shut down for one day, it would cost the United States more than $100 million.\n\nIn 2015, Booker hosted a meeting in his Newark office with federal and state officials, including the U.S. Secretary of Transportation and the Governor of New Jersey, who reached an agreement to commit a substantial federal grant contribution toward the Hudson River tunnel, paving the way for the project to move forward.\n\nIn January, Booker joined President Joe Biden and U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg to announce the award of $292 million for the Gateway Program to create a concrete casing near Hudson Yards in Manhattan intended to preserve future right-of-way for the new Hudson River tunnel and lay the groundwork for the much-anticipated Hudson River tunnel project.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/statement-of-senators-regarding-humanitarian-aid-to-civilians-in-gaza", "STATEMENT OF SENATORS REGARDING HUMANITARIAN AID TO CIVILIANS IN GAZA", "2023-11-03", "2023", "2023-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) joined U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA), Mark Warner (D-VA), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Peter Welch (D-VT), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Ed Markey (D-MA), Tina Smith (D-MN), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) to issue the following statement:\n\n\u201cThe tragic war in Gaza, initiated by Hamas terrorist attacks on innocent civilians on October 7, is causing heartbreaking suffering among Israelis, Palestinians and citizens of other nations living in the region.\n\n\u201cIsrael has the right and obligation to defend itself against Hamas, whose leadership continues to state clearly that their goal is the complete annihilation of Israel. Israel also has the obligation, pursuant to international law, to conduct that defense in such a way as to minimize harm to civilians and allow humanitarian aid to reach those who are suffering. We acknowledge the increased burden that this necessarily places on Israel to accomplish these obligations.\n\n\u201cHamas\u2019s horrific actions cannot be ascribed to all Palestinians. Indeed, Palestinian residents of Gaza have often been victimized by Hamas.\n\n\u201cAs Senators, we have been closely monitoring the war in Gaza and believe that much more must be done to protect civilian life. We have been in ongoing dialogue with government officials in the United States, Israel and other nations in the region. We have communicated extensively with international aid officials doing work in Gaza, including those working together with the U.S. Agency for International Development. And we have talked at length with our own constituents who have family and friends in the region.\n\n\u201cThe failure to adequately protect non-combatant civilians risks dramatic escalation of the conflict in the region and imposes severe damage on prospects for peaceful coexistence between Israelis and Palestinians. Based on the consensus opinion of U.S. and international aid officials, it is nearly impossible to deliver sufficient humanitarian aid to protect civilian life under current conditions.\n\n\u201cThus, we join President Biden in his call for a short-term cessation of hostilities that pose high-risk to civilians, aid workers or humanitarian aid delivery in Gaza, in order to accomplish three goals:", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-announces-525-million-to-new-jersey-ports-to-improve-operations-enhance-sustainability", "Booker Announces $52.5 million to New Jersey Ports to Improve Operations, Enhance Sustainability", "2023-11-02", "2023", "2023-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "NEWARK, N.J. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) announced $52.5 million in funding to New Jersey ports to improve the safety, efficiency, and reliability of the movement of goods.\n\nThe Port Authority of New York and New Jersey is receiving $32 million for the reconstruction of Berth PN-308 at Port Newark, a project vital to the port\u2019s operations, with regional and national benefits, and $20.5 million is going to South Jersey Port Corporation for environmental remediation and improvements at Paulsboro Marine Terminal.\n\nThe grants are part of the U.S. Department of Transportation Maritime Administration\u2019s Port Infrastructure Development Program, which is awarded on a competitive basis to ports for planning and capital projects.\n\n\u201cNew Jersey\u2019s ports are engines of economic development for our region, moving goods, creating jobs, and strengthening our economy,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cThese investments will fund critical upgrades that improve port operations and shore up supply chains; secure New Jersey\u2019s position as a leader in clean energy, and create thousands of jobs.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Bipartisan Infrastructure Law continues to provide economic opportunities in our communities and deliver for South Jersey,\u201d said Representative Donald Norcross (D-NJ). \u201cThis $20 million investment in the Port of Paulsboro will expand and improve the port\u2019s operations, infrastructure, and capacity while creating and supporting good-paying jobs throughout our region. The long-term sustainability of our ports is vital to our economy, and I will continue to support investments that ensure we can meet America\u2019s freight and transportation needs.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe ships arriving at the Port of New York and New Jersey are carrying the goods that power our region\u2019s economy,\u201d said Port Authority Chairman Kevin O\u2019Toole. \u201cThis grant award will make sure those ships have a reliable place to dock \u2013 a rebuilt wharf and pier structure that will last well into the future.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Port Authority is committed to maintaining the cargo capabilities of the Port of New York and New Jersey at the highest possible level in order to keep the port at the forefront of the nation\u2019s supply chain,\u201d said Port Authority Executive Director Rick Cotton. \u201cThis grant is a key element in achieving that ambition.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe greatly appreciate the Biden Administration\u2019s continued investment in the Ports in South Jersey,\u201d said Andrew Saporito, Executive Director and CEO, South Jersey Port. \u201cThrough the support of our federal partners and Governor Murphy, the Paulsboro Marine Terminal is well positioned to attract a diverse cargo portfolio.\u201d\n\nThe New Jersey grant awards are:\n\n$32 million to the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey for the replacement and modernization of Berth PN-308 at Port Newark, which has been out of service since September 2021 due to structural safety concerns. Specific project activities include demolition and debris removal, pile driving and capping, as well as deck installation. The project will reconstruct the wharf for a 75-year service-life, increase the live load criteria from 500 pounds per square foot (psf) to 2,000 psf, and implement flexible resiliency enhancements such as elevating the structure to manage sea level rise.\n\n$20.5 million to the South Jersey Port Corporation for the construction of a Main Terminal Sanitary Pump Station and Offsite Conveyance; constructing stormwater collection and treatment infrastructure as well as yard piping needed to provide utility connections; final grading and paving to include the removal and disposal of excess contaminated soil and the protection or relocation of existing monitoring wells; construction of 15 high-mast-light poles; electrical infrastructure improvements to include a secondary main transformer, new switchgear, and completion of electrical loops; redevelopment of approximately 2 acres for employee parking; security improvements including fencing and relocation of a guard booth; and decommissioning and restoration of a groundwater treatment plant to convert it for use in port operations.\n\nBooker wrote letters to U.S. Department of Transportation Maritime Administration in support of both projects.\n\nThe Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which Booker voted for, appropriated $450 million to the Port Infrastructure Development Program in FY2023, and the FY2023 government funding bill made another $212 million available for the program.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-reintroduces-federal-firearm-licensing-act", "Booker Reintroduces Federal Firearm Licensing Act", "2023-11-02", "2023", "2023-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. -- As the toll from the epidemic of gun violence and deadly mass shootings across the country, most recently in Lewiston, Maine, continues to grow, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee and Chair of the Subcommittee on Criminal Justice and Counterterrorism, reintroduced the Federal Firearm Licensing Act, legislation that would require individuals to obtain a federal firearm license before purchasing or receiving a firearm.\n\nStudies have shown that licensing laws can significantly reduce gun violence in places that have enacted them. For example, according to the Giffords Law Center, Connecticut saw its gun homicide and gun suicide rates decrease by 28 and 33 percent, respectively, after passing a state licensing law. In contrast, after Missouri repealed its firearm licensing law, the state saw a 47 percent increase in its gun homicide rate and 24 percent increase in its gun suicide rate. Licensing laws also enjoy strong support from Americans, with 77% backing the idea according to a Quinnipiac survey from 2019.\n\n\u201cThe epidemic of gun violence and mass shootings continues to claim the lives of thousands of innocent Americans every year,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cIf you need a license to drive a car, you should need a license to own and use a gun. Data shows that states that have implemented licensing laws have significantly reduced gun-related deaths. This legislation would mirror this common-sense idea at the federal level and enhance public safety by ensuring that individuals seeking to purchase firearms pass a standard background check and are properly trained before obtaining a required license. We are not powerless to stop the carnage in our communities. Meaningful reforms like this will prevent gun violence, save lives, and make our communities safer.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis common-sense, straightforward measure would require a license to own a gun. States like Connecticut have successfully implemented this very simple standard\u2014requiring a background check and firearm safety training before being able to purchase a firearm. As gun violence continues to horrifically claim innocent lives and with most Americans in support of licensing laws, this is a bill whose time has come,\u201d said Senator Blumenthal.\n\n\u201cThis is simple: in order to buy a deadly weapon, you should be trained and licensed. Right now, you need a license to drive a car, but in some states, you need nothing more than cash to buy a gun. States like Hawai\u2018i with background checks and gun licensing requirements have shown us that this policy is effective in lowering gun-related deaths. Our bill would apply those same commonsense standards on the federal level, which will help keep more communities safe and save lives,\u201d said Senator Schatz.\n\n\u201cThe most recent, devastating mass shooting in Lewiston, Maine is yet another example of the urgent need for meaningful gun reform in this country. Too many Americans are terrified to simply go about living their lives \u2013 sending their kids to school, going to the grocery store, attending a concert \u2013 due to this scourge of gun violence. We are the only nation on earth whose citizens routinely risk getting gunned down when they walk out of their homes. This is an unacceptable reality. We, as legislators, need to step up and protect our communities the best way we can \u2013 with legislation like the Federal Firearm Licensing Act,\u201d said Senator Menendez. \u201cThis legislation requires individuals in the United States to obtain a federal firearm license, receive training and go through a background check before purchasing or receiving a firearm. These are not onerous restrictions; they are just common sense. I am proud to join Senator Booker in cosponsoring this critical, life-saving legislation that prioritizes the safety and well-being of individuals and families in New Jersey and throughout the country.\u201d\n\n\u201cOur nation is awash in guns\u2014just this year alone, there have been more than 500 mass shootings in communities across our country,\u201d said Senator Hirono. \u201cAs we work to combat our nation\u2019s gun violence epidemic, I hope this bill will move us closer to stemming the scourge of gun violence. I\u2019m proud to support the Federal Firearm Licensing Act to help protect our communities from gun violence.\u201d\n\n\u201cToo many families have buried loved ones because of senseless gun violence and it\u2019s long past time for Congress to find the courage to take action on this issue, \u201d said Representative Kim. \u201cI\u2019ve heard from families across our state that we should prevent guns from getting into the wrong hands and take common sense steps like requiring background checks and a license to own a lethal weapon to make our communities safer and save lives. I\u2019m proud to reintroduce this bill in the House and I look forward to working alongside my colleagues in the Senate to get this passed into law so we can deliver the security and freedoms our families deserve.\u201d\n\nSpecifically, the legislation would require:\n\nAn individual to completed firearm safety training, which must include a written test and hands-on training to ensure safe use and accuracy.\n\nAttorney General to conduct a history background check of any individual purchasing a firearm.\n\nThe federal firearm license must be renewed every five years at which point the applicant will have to go through a background check and undergo firearm safety training again. The bill contains a mechanism for the U.S. Department of Justice to revoke a license if an individual poses a danger to themselves or to others. The legislation would require the Federal Bureau of Investigation to regularly conduct checks to ensure that individuals are in compliance with federal license requirements and keep in place requirements that all people purchasing firearms from a federal firearms licensee undergo a background check.\n\nThe legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Bob Menendez (D-NJ), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), and Mazie Hirono (D-HI); U.S. Representative Andy Kim (D-NJ).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T01:01:09Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-introduces-bicameral-legislation-to-address-childhood-obesity-in-us", "Booker Introduces Bicameral Legislation to Address Childhood Obesity in U.S.", "2023-10-31", "2023", "2023-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.) introduced the bicameral Reducing Obesity in Youth Act, legislation that would address the epidemic of childhood obesity in America. The bill would create incentives to improve the future health of American children and affect future national health care costs and national security. U.S. Representative Steve Cohen (D-TN) introduced the House version last month.\n\nAccording to the Centers for Disease and Control Prevention, roughly one in five children in the United States between the ages of 2 and 19 is affected by obesity.\n\n\"A healthy nation starts with healthy children,\" said Senator Booker. \"Childhood obesity not only poses a health crisis, leading to higher risks of chronic diseases, stroke, and heart conditions but also carries significant economic implications. This bicameral bill will allocate funds for grant programs that encourage healthy dietary choices and ensure a healthier future for all our children.\"\n\n\u201cI have long been concerned that Tennessee has one of the highest childhood obesity rates in the nation. The national childhood obesity rate is dangerously high but, in recent years, Tennessee has trended even higher than the national average. The Reducing Obesity in Youth Act I am introducing with Senator Booker would reverse this trend and improve the health and well-being of America\u2019s children. Research shows that early childhood is an important time for developing positive dietary and physical activity behaviors. The House and Senate bills being introduced would create a competitive grant program to incentivize the development of earlier health and nutrition education environments for our children. A healthy start will lead to healthy lives,\u201d said Representative Cohen.\n\nThe legislation is endorsed by the Association of State Public Health Nutritionists, Better Children\u2019s Diets, Curricula Concepts, Inc., First Focus Campaign for Children, Florida Chapter for the American Academy of Pediatrics, Health Council of Southeast Florida, Jump in for Healthy Kids, Kids Forward, Laurie M. Trisch Center for Food, Education, and Policy, Le Bonheur Children\u2019s Hospital, Mary Ann Liebert Inc., Nemours Children\u2019s Health System, Pennington Biomedical Research Foundation, Save the Children, and the Society of Behavioral Medicine.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-kim-usda-announce-community-facility-funding-in-burlington-county", "Booker, Kim, USDA Announce Community Facility Funding in Burlington County", "2023-10-31", "2023", "2023-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "NEWARK, N.J. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), U.S. Representative Andy Kim (D-NJ), and USDA Rural Development State Director Jane Asselta announced $13.6 million in grant and loan awards for the township of Edgewater Park for the construction of a public safety building and a community center.\n\n\u201cI'm thrilled to see Edgewater Park receive these vital federal investments for its public safety building and community center,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cThis mix of grant and loans will address the growing needs of the community by providing space to support public safety, civic administration, and community events. This funding is testament to the dedication of local leaders and Rep. Kim\u2019s and the USDA\u2019s commitment to serving all our communities.\"\n\n\u201cI am proud to officially break ground in Edgewater Park. This project will go a long way to support law enforcement\u2019s work keeping people safe and make regular, municipal services more accessible to the community in one, easy-to-access location with a new community center right next door,\u201d said Representative Kim. \u201cI am glad to have been able to connect federal funds to local needs in Edgewater Park. I look forward to seeing the new facility\u2019s doors open and help ease some everyday burdens for neighbors, local municipal employees, and law enforcement.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe needs of rural New Jersey communities are our priority, and these Edgewater Park projects demonstrate our ability to assist towns buy, build or repair facilities that are an essential part of the social fabric of any community,\u201d said USDA Rural Development State Director Asselta. \u201cExpanding access to essential civic resources drives economic growth, strengthens community ties, and showcases our continued collaboration with local and state representatives \u2013 the result is for small towns to thrive.\u201d\n\nThe projects \u2013 financed by the USDA Rural Development\u2019s Community Facilities Program, which is designed to provide affordable funding to develop essential community facilities in rural areas \u2013 will serve more than 8,000 Edgewater Park residents.\n\nPublic Safety Building\n\nUSDA Rural Development funded the Public Safety Building through a $4,400,000 grant and $6,140,000 loan to fulfill the township's growing demands to accommodate Edgewater\u2019s public safety and civic administration needs. The civic administration section of the building will feature a covered arcade main entrance opening into a welcoming lobby where patrons can traverse to several areas: court reception, law enforcement, complaint intake, a dedicated court room, and a large seminar training room. The building will also house the law enforcement department, a judge's chamber, and a separate emergency management services suite.\n\nCommunity Center\n\nUSDA Rural Development funded the community center, through a $3,098,000 loan, that will contain a commercial kitchen to host cooking classes and house the community's nutritional program. The center will also contain two restrooms with American with Disabilities Act compliant shower rooms for residents and features a large community room designed to hold 100 persons for community events.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-applauds-biden-executive-order-on-artificial-intelligence", "Booker Applauds Biden Executive Order on Artificial Intelligence", "2023-10-30", "2023", "2023-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.) issued the following statement:\n\n\u201cI commend President Biden, Vice President Harris, and their Administration for the Executive Order announced today to capture the promise of artificial intelligence and effectively manage its risks.\n\n\u201cThe Executive Order is further evidence that the United States is poised to lead the world not just in the development of cutting-edge AI technologies, but also in the development of sound and balanced policies to responsibly govern their use.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m glad to see that the Executive Order includes many of the principles and priorities I shared with the White House earlier this year, including the need for provisions to bolster AI research and development, promote innovation, combat AI-enabled discrimination, advance equity and civil rights, and otherwise maximize the benefits of AI for all people \u2013 not just the most fortunate.\n\n\u201cAs the Senate continues its critical work under Leader Schumer to develop policies to invest in AI and establish needed guardrails, I\u2019m grateful to the Administration for its efforts to date, and I look forward to our continued collaboration to a create a fair, safe, and secure AI future.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-supports-biden-administration-call-for-humanitarian-pauses", "Booker Supports Biden Administration\r\n Call for Humanitarian Pauses", "2023-10-28", "2023", "2023-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2013 Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, issued the following statement:\n\n\u201cIsrael has the right and responsibility to defend itself from terrorist attacks and to ensure that something like what happened on October 7th never happens again.\n\n\u201cHamas\u2019 attacks against Israel, including the gruesome massacre and kidnapping of civilians, are abhorrent and necessitate a robust response that ensures the long-term safety and security of both Israelis and Palestinians.\n\n\u201cAt the same time, we must not lose sight that upholding the law of war and protecting civilians is absolutely paramount. I\u2019m concerned by the humanitarian situation on the ground in Gaza. The images of loss and human suffering from Gaza are devastating.\n\n\u201cI echo the Biden Administration\u2019s call for humanitarian pauses to ensure that life-saving assistance\u2013such as food, water, medicine, and fuel\u2013reaches innocent civilians in Gaza and for the purposes of returning hostages held by Hamas to safety.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-joins-murphy-van-hollen-schatz-welch-merkley-colleagues-to-call-for-fuel-deliveries-to-hospitals-and-water-treatment-centers-in-gaza", "Booker Joins Murphy, Van Hollen, Schatz, Welch, Merkley, Colleagues to Call for Fuel Deliveries to Hospitals and Water Treatment Centers in Gaza", "2023-10-27", "2023", "2023-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) joined Senators Chris Murphy (D-CT), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Peter Welch (D-VT), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), and 19 of their Senate colleagues to release the following statement:\n\n\u201cWe condemn Hamas\u2019 horrific terrorist attacks against Israel, for which Israel must hold Hamas accountable. In the course of that endeavor, every effort must be made to protect innocent civilians. Right now, hospitals in Gaza are hours away from running out of fuel that powers ventilators, incubators for babies, and other lifesaving equipment, and diseases are rapidly spreading without power to treat and pump clean drinking water. To prevent a potential health crisis and help save countless lives, we believe it is possible to transport fuel directly to these hospitals, desalination plants, and water pumping stations with full transparency to prevent diversion to Hamas. There are extensive oversight mechanisms in place that will track the fuel deliveries directly to the intended sites where they can be used immediately to prevent the deaths of innocent civilians, including babies and children. We encourage the Biden administration to work with our Israeli, Egyptian, and UN partners to enable these lifesaving deliveries.\u201d\n\nU.S. Senators Booker, Murphy, Van Hollen, Schatz, Welch, Merkley were joined by Senators Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Tom Carper (D-Del.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Angus King (I-Maine), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), and Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n (D-N.M.).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-hawley-introduce-bipartisan-preventing-child-labor-exploitation-act-to-hold-corporations-accountable-for-labor-law-violations", "Booker, Hawley Introduce Bipartisan Preventing Child Labor Exploitation Act to Hold Corporations Accountable for Labor Law Violations", "2023-10-26", "2023", "2023-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Josh Hawley (R-MO) introduced the bipartisan Preventing Child Labor Exploitation Act, legislation that would leverage the multi-billion dollars in federal procurement contracts to hold corporations accountable for the exploitation of child workers. The bill would prohibit federal agencies from contracting with companies that have violated federal child labor laws or employ vendors that have failed to address child labor infractions.\n\nSince 2018, the U.S. Department of Labor has seen a 69 percent increase in the illegal employment of children by companies. Recent reporting from NY Times has continued to expose the ongoing child labor exploitation of major corporations, detailing an eighth grader who was killed on the cleaning shift at a Mar-Jac plant in Mississippi in July, a 14-year-old who was hospitalized in Alabama after being overworked at a chicken operation, a 17-year-old in Ohio who had his leg torn off at the knee while cleaning a Case Farms plant, another child who lost a hand in a meat grinder at a Michigan operation, and a 14-year-old who was maimed while working an overnight shift.\n\n\u201cExploitation of children by big corporations to drive profit is an abhorrent practice, but is not a new one,\u201d said Senator Booker. \"Across the country, major corporations are relying on children to clean dangerous machinery, handle toxic chemicals, and work exhausting overnight shifts in their facilities for low wages and no benefits. Often, this work is done in violation of existing federal labor laws, but employers have shielded themselves from any accountability by relying on third-party vendors with long records of labor infractions. Despite efforts by Congress and this Administration to challenge these bad practices, too few companies have taken significant steps to address the ongoing child labor issues in their facilities. That\u2019s why today I am joining Senator Hawley to say that, at a bare minimum, there is no reason that the federal government should contract with companies violating child labor law. We must ensure that federal contracts support good-paying jobs, and do not benefit corporations that continue to rely on children working in dangerous environments.\"\n\n\u201cChild labor is an abomination and it has no place in our country. Companies that illegally employ children must be held accountable \u2013 especially those that contract with the federal government. This bipartisan legislation requires federal contractors to root out child labor in their operations and has the teeth to go after those who don\u2019t comply,\u201d said Senator Hawley.\n\nSpecifically, the Preventing Child Labor Exploitation Act would:\n\nRequire companies competing for contracts with federal agencies to disclose child labor and worker safety infractions by the company itself as well as by any of their contractors in the preceding three years, with stiff penalties for failure to report.\n\nEmpower the Secretary of Labor to determine corrective measures for a company and/or their contractors to remain eligible for the executive agency contracts.\n\nRequire the Secretary of Labor to prepare a list of companies that are ineligible for federal contracts for that year based on serious, repeated, or pervasive violations of child labor laws.\n\nEstablish transparency measures to ensure executive agency and DOL compliance.\n\nCreate a federal study on the prevalence and nature of child labor among federal contractors.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/senate-adopts-booker-tuberville-amendment-to-boost-funding-for-low-income-households-to-install-wastewater-systems", "Senate Adopts Booker, Tuberville Amendment to Boost Funding for Low-Income Households to Install Wastewater Systems", "2023-10-26", "2023", "2023-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 The U.S. Senate adopted an amendment authored by U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) that would increase funding for the Rural Decentralized Water Systems Program \u2013 funding that will allow more low-income Americans in rural communities to access grants and loans to install or repair household sewage systems. The increased funding will now be included in the so-called Minibus Appropriations bill currently being considered by the Senate.\n\nAccording to the U.S. Census Bureau, over a million homes in the United States lack adequate plumbing, with nearly 200,000 having no sewage system at all. Often this leads to the piping of raw sewage from homes directly into their back yards, with substantial negative impacts on public health and the environment.\n\nTo address this issue, Senators Booker and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) introduced legislation to provide grants to low-income households in rural areas for installing and maintaining individually-owned decentralized wastewater systems. This legislation was included in the 2018 Farm Bill as an amendment to an existing USDA program, and the USDA Rural Decentralized Water Systems Program is now authorized to provide loans and grants of up to $15,000 to low-income households in rural areas for the construction, refurbishing, and servicing of individual household water well systems and individually-owned household decentralized wastewater systems.\n\n\"No American should go without access to basic sanitation,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cThe Senate\u2019s adoption of our bipartisan amendment will increase funding for decentralized wastewater systems, so we can better safeguard public health, protect the environment, and improve the quality of life for our most vulnerable communities.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe American people should have access to safe drinking water and sanitary waste disposal systems, regardless of where they live,\u201d said Senator Tuberville. \u201cRight now, many Alabamians in the Black Belt region do not have access to public sewer systems, and instead have to rely on septic tanks or decentralized systems to remove their waste. I am grateful that our bipartisan amendment was passed, since it will make funding available for more reliable, decentralized systems across our country.\u201d\n\nSpecifically, Amendment 1175 increased the funding in Fiscal Year 2024 for the Rural Decentralized Water System program from $5 million to $20 million. The amendment also requires that at least $10 million of this funding be directed to low-income households as grants for decentralized wastewater systems.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-and-bipartisan-senate-delegation-return-to-us-after-trip-to-saudi-arabia-israel-and-egypt", "Booker and Bipartisan Senate Delegation Return to US after Trip to Saudi Arabia, Israel, and Egypt", "2023-10-24", "2023", "2023-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. -- U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and a bipartisan Senate delegation have returned to the United States after a four-day trip to Saudi Arabia, Israel, and Egypt to discuss current affairs in the region with a focus on the conflict between Israel and Hamas, including support for Israel\u2019s right to self-defense, the need to ensure the protection of innocent Palestinians and the continuous flow of life-saving humanitarian resources into Gaza, and efforts to release all hostages held by Hamas. Diplomatic meetings also focused on preventing expansion of the conflict and reinforcing the importance of not allowing Hamas to derail progress on normalization between Saudi Arabia and Israel, regional integration, and the prospects for a two-state solution.\n\nIn addition to Senator Booker, the bipartisan delegation included Senators Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Ben Cardin (D-MD), Jack Reed (D-RI), Susan Collins (R-ME), John Thune (R-SD), Chris Coons (D-DE), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Dan Sullivan (R-AK), and Katie Britt (R-AL).\n\nSenator Booker and the delegation met with high-level officials in each of the nations they visited.\n\nSenator Booker said, \u201cHamas\u2019 unconscionable acts of violence, kidnapping, and terror targeting Israeli families, children, the elderly, and other civilians must be met with unwavering international condemnation. Israel has the right to defend itself against terrorist attacks and to ensure that something like October 7th never happens again. Palestinian civilians are not to blame for Hamas\u2019s terror and are also victims of Hamas\u2019 brutality. We must all prioritize the protection of innocent Palestinian civilians caught in the crossfire and ensure that life-saving humanitarian assistance is able to enter Gaza and reach those in need.\u201d\n\nSenator Booker continued, \u201cHamas\u2019s unprecedented attacks against Israel came at a time when new normalization conversations and new opportunities to lay the groundwork for a two-state solution were occurring. I don\u2019t think this timing was a coincidence. The world cannot give in to terrorists\u2019 efforts to disrupt progress toward peace. Affirming and protecting Israel\u2019s right to exist as a democratic Jewish state and ensuring the Palestinian people\u2019s right to self-determination and a state of their own are both necessary components of any real and lasting peace in the region. It is clear that normalization and peace talks are more necessary than ever.\u201d\n\nTwo weeks ago, Senator Booker visited Israel, United Arab Emirates, and Bahrain on a mission to build upon the historic Abraham Accords and strengthen bilateral relationships. Senator Booker was in Jerusalem on October 7 when Hamas, a U.S.-designated foreign terrorist organization, launched its horrific terror attacks against Israel. Senator Booker continued on to UAE and Bahrain to reinforce that only through normalization and increased regional economic, people-to-people, and security ties will terrorist groups and regimes that thrive off instability and fear be marginalized.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-pressley-reintroduce-mommies-act-to-improve-maternal-health-outcomes", "Booker, Pressley Reintroduce MOMMIES Act to Improve Maternal Health Outcomes", "2023-10-19", "2023", "2023-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) and U.S. Representative Ayanna Pressley (D-MA) reintroduced the Maximizing Outcomes for Moms through Medicaid Improvement and Enhancement of Services (MOMMIES) Act, legislation that would seek to improve maternal health outcomes, reverse the trend of rising maternal mortality rates, and close disparities that put Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) communities and their kids at greater risk.\n\nThe bill would expand coverage for pregnant people covered by Medicaid -- which covers nearly half of all births in the U.S. -- by extending postpartum coverage from two months to a full year after childbirth; ensuring that all pregnant and postpartum people have full Medicaid coverage, rather than coverage that can be limited to pregnancy-related services; and increasing access to primary care providers and reproductive health providers.\n\n\"The United States spends more on health care than any other nation, but we still have the highest rate of maternal mortality among our peer countries,\" said Senator Booker. \u201cWe must ensure that no person, regardless of their background, faces inequities or disparities when accessing or receiving maternal care. This legislation is an important step towards addressing our nation\u2019s health disparities and promoting equitable maternal healthcare for all. I urge my colleagues in the Senate to pass this critical bill.\"\n\n\"My paternal grandmother died in the 1950s while giving birth, and it is absolutely damning that decades later, the Black maternal morbidity crisis in America is still killing our loved ones and destabilizing our families,\u201d said Representative Pressley. \u201cWith the Supreme Court\u2019s cruel Dobbs decision only exacerbating this crisis, Congress must pass our bill to promote community-based, holistic approaches to maternity and post-partum care so that every pregnant person is treated with the dignity and respect they deserve during and after their pregnancy. Maternal health justice is a racial justice issue and a matter of life and death, and we must make comprehensive, culturally-congruent reproductive care a reality for all.\u201d\n\n\u201cNo matter where she lives, the color of her skin, or her ability to pay, every mom deserves the respectful, responsive, nurturing and equitable continuum of care and support she needs before, during and after pregnancy to deliver a healthy beginning and healthy future for herself and the baby she loves. Yet too many women in the U.S. live too far from an ob to receive care. Too many gaps in coverage leave too many women unable to afford care, from the crucial pre-pregnancy period through postpartum. Too few women have access to doula and lactation support, dental screenings, mental health counseling, and other services that are vital to maternal and infant health \u2013 that reduce risks, save lives, lower healthcare costs. That\u2019s why the WTEP and I are proud to endorse the MOMMIES Act - comprehensive legislation that would provide these vital services and support for moms. We\u2019re grateful to the passionate leadership and tireless efforts and commitment from Senator Booker on behalf of all our moms,\u201d said Heidi Murkoff, author of What to Expect When You\u2019re Expecting and founder of the What to Expect Project.\n\n\"With the U.S. in the grips of a devasting maternal mortality crisis which is especially acute for Black moms, we commend Senator Cory Booker and Representative Ayanna Pressley for introducing the Maximizing Outcomes for Moms through Medicaid Improvement and Enhancement of Services (MOMMIES) Act. The legislation will go a long way to improving health outcomes for our nation's families by extending coverage for people in Medicaid to one year after childbirth, facilitating doula support and improving access to maternity services through telehealth. We urge Congress to take swift action to pass this critical bill,\" said Stacey Y. Brayboy, Senior Vice President, Public Policy and Government Affairs, March of Dimes.\n\n\u201cSymonette Strategies & Solutions applauds the reintroduction of the MOMMIES Act. As a boutique consulting firm established to illuminate and amplify the language, lens, and lived experiences of mothers in the development of federal policy, we are thrilled about this landmark bill that would launch the innovative Maternity Care Home Demonstration Project. Distinctively, this bill requires consultation with lactation consultants and peer lactation counselors in the design and implementation of the Project. As we know, breastfeeding is an important modifiable risk for both mothers and babies as it is protective of maternal-infant health across the life course, and provides substantial nutritional, cognitive, emotional, and immunological benefits. By inviting lactation educators to add voice to the conversation and convert insight to influence at the genesis of the Project, we are shaping policy and shifting paradigms that advance breastfeeding and human lactation as central, fundamental components of improving maternal health outcomes thus truly maximizing outcomes for moms,\u201d said Denys Symonette Mitchell of Symonette Strategies & Solutions.\n\n\u201cIn Our Own Voice: National Black Women's Reproductive Justice Agenda is proud to support the reintroduction of the MOMMIES Act and applauds Sen. Cory Booker and Rep. Ayanna Pressley for their continued leadership in combatting the Black maternal health crisis. Black women and birthing people continue to experience alarming rates of pregnancy-related complications and death and we need Reproductive Justice centered solutions more now than ever. A policy recommendation in our 2023 Black Reproductive Justice Policy Agenda, the MOMMIES Act prioritizes key solutions, including expanded access to doula services and coverage of postpartum care. Informed by the Reproductive Justice framework, this bill is a critical step in ensuring Black women, birthing people, and their babies can thrive during pregnancy and beyond,\u201d said Regina Davis Moss, PhD, MPH, MCHES, President and CEO of In Our Own Voice: National Black Women's Reproductive Justice Agenda.\n\n\u201cNo matter where she lives, the color of her skin, or her ability to pay, every mom deserves the respectful, responsive, nurturing and equitable continuum of care and support she needs before, during and after pregnancy to deliver a healthy beginning and healthy future for herself and the baby she loves. Yet too many women in the U.S. live too far from an ob to receive care. Too many gaps in coverage leave too many women unable to afford care, from the crucial pre-pregnancy period through postpartum. Too few women have access to doula and lactation support, dental screenings, mental health counseling, and other services that are vital to maternal and infant health \u2013 that reduce risks, save lives, lower healthcare costs. That\u2019s why the WTEP and I are proud to endorse the MOMMIES Act - comprehensive legislation that would provide these vital services and support for moms. We\u2019re grateful to the passionate leadership and tireless efforts and commitment from Senator Booker and Representative Pressley on behalf of all our moms,\u201d said Heidi Murkoff, author of What to Expect When You\u2019re Expecting and founder of the What to Expect Project.\n\nBetween 2000 and 2014, the maternal mortality rate in the U.S. increased by 26 percent, while it decreased in nearly every other country. Stark racial disparities in maternal deaths have also persisted, as Black women are more than three times as likely to die from pregnancy-related causes as white women. Additionally, for every person who dies due to a pregnancy-related complication, dozens more suffer from unexpected outcomes from pregnancy that result in both short- and long-term consequences to a person\u2019s health.\n\nSpecifically, the MOMMIES Act would:\n\nExtend Medicaid coverage for postpartum people to a full year after giving birth, rather than the current limit of 60 days that many face.\n\nEnsure that all pregnant and postpartum people have full Medicaid coverage, rather than coverage that can be limited to pregnancy-related services. This is particularly critical for reducing disparities, as benefits for pregnant people covered by Medicaid vary depending on their eligibility group and what state they're located in.\n\nEstablish a Maternity Care Home demonstration project to study the effectiveness of this innovative model of maternity care. Maternity Care Homes show great promise in improving maternal health outcomes, as they are based on a model of care that is patient-centered, coordinated, and comprehensive. Maternity Care Homes have also shown early successes in reducing health care costs, increasing the number of prenatal visits, and reducing the number of low birthweight infants. Data from the pilot programs can be used to implement the model on a wider scale.\n\nExtend the Affordable Care Act's primary care bump to ensure that Medicaid beneficiaries have access to primary care providers, including reproductive health providers.\n\nFacilitate increased access to doula support. Doulas are support personnel who provide pregnant people with emotional, physical, and informational support. Doula support has been shown to improve maternal and infant health outcomes, particularly among people of color, but currently, only a handful of states have authorized Medicaid coverage for doulas. The MOMMIES Act would facilitate increased access to doula support by requiring the Medicaid and CHIP Payment and Access Commission (MACPAC) to publish a report on coverage of doula support under Medicaid, including recommendations for legislative and administrative actions to increase access to such support.\n\nStudy telehealth and its potential to improve Medicaid beneficiaries' access to maternity care. Telehealth programs show promise in increasing access to maternity care, particularly in rural and other underserved areas. To learn about telehealth\u2019s potential to increase access to maternity care, the MOMMIES Act would require a Government Accountability Office report on states that are currently providing this coverage and recommendations for increasing access to telehealth for pregnant people.\n\nThe bill is co-sponsored by U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Tina Smith (D-MN), and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA).\n\nThe legislation is endorsed by: Black Mamas Alliance, Symonette Strategies & Solutions, Center for American Progress, Every Mother Counts, March of Dimes, What to Expect Project, In Our Own Voice: National Black Women\u2019s Reproductive Justice Agenda, Rh Impact ( Formerly National Birth Equity Collaborative), Center for Reproductive Rights, National Asian Pacific American Women\u2019s Forum, Planned Parenthood, Association of Maternal and Child Health Programs, Ancient Song Doula Services, National Health Law Program.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-whitehouse-blumenthal-padilla-introduce-new-supreme-court-term-limit-bill", "Booker, Whitehouse, Blumenthal, Padilla Introduce New Supreme Court Term Limit Bill", "2023-10-19", "2023", "2023-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), and Alex Padilla (D-CA) introduced new legislation, the Supreme Court Biennial Appointments and Term Limits Act, to establish 18-year term limits and regularized appointments for Supreme Court justices. Senators Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Peter Welch (D-VT), and Brian Schatz (D-HI) also cosponsored the legislation.\n\nUnder the senators\u2019 legislation, a new justice would take the bench every two years and spend 18 years participating in all Supreme Court cases, after which the justice would be limited to hearing a small number of constitutionally required cases.\n\n\u201cThe Supreme Court is facing a crisis of legitimacy that is exacerbated by radical decisions at odds with established legal precedent, ethical lapses of sitting justices, and politicization of the confirmation process,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cThis crisis has eroded faith and confidence in our nation\u2019s highest court. Fundamental reform is necessary to address this crisis and restore trust in the institution. Setting term limits for Supreme Court justices will restore accountability and depoliticize the confirmation process, and term limits are a commonsense change that an overwhelming majority of Americans support. I\u2019m proud to stand with my colleagues to champion this effort.\u201d\n\n\u201cAn organized scheme by right-wing special interests to capture and control the Supreme Court, aided by gobs of billionaire dark money flowing through the confirmation process and judicial lobbying, has resulted in an unaccountable Court out of step with the American people. Term limits and biennial appointments would make the Court more representative of the public and lower the stakes of each justice\u2019s appointment, while preserving constitutional protections for judicial independence,\u201d said Senator Whitehouse, Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Courts Subcommittee. \u201cAs Congress considers multiple options to restore the integrity of this scandal-plagued Court, our term limits bill should be front and center as a potential solution.\u201d\n\n\u201cTerm limits will help restore credibility and trust to our nation\u2019s highest court. This proposal is simple and fair: each President, elected by the American people, will appoint two Supreme Court justices for each term. Our bill strips out the toxic politics, partisan obstruction, and retirement gamesmanship that have eroded public trust, not just in the Supreme Court, but in our entire system of justice. Detached from the public and more politicized than ever, the Supreme Court will continue to face a crisis of legitimacy without this kind of fundamental reform,\u201d said Senator Blumenthal.\n\n\u201cIt shouldn\u2019t be controversial to say that the American people deserve a Supreme Court insulated from politics. But when every confirmation turns into an all-out partisan battle, or when one administration alone can overturn a lifetime of precedent, it\u2019s clear: the Court has lost its way,\u201d said Senator Padilla. \u201cBy imposing commonsense term limits, we can lower the temperature on political brinksmanship and start to restore trust in the highest court in our land.\u201d\n\nThe Constitution requires that Supreme Court justices hear a small number of cases under the Court\u2019s \u201coriginal jurisdiction.\u201d These cases include a narrow category of disputes between states or foreign officials in which the Court is the first and only venue where the case is heard. All justices would continue to hear original jurisdiction cases under the Act.\n\nThe vast majority of the cases the Court hears are brought under the Court\u2019s \u201cappellate jurisdiction\u201d\u2014cases decided by lower courts that are appealed to the Supreme Court. These include major cases like Dobbs v. Jackson Women\u2019s Health Organization, Shelby County v. Holder, and Citizens United v. FEC.\n\nThe Constitution makes clear that the Supreme Court\u2019s \u201cappellate jurisdiction\u201d is subject to any \u201cExceptions\u201d or \u201cRegulations as the Congress shall make.\u201d Congress has long used this authority to adjust the Supreme Court\u2019s jurisdiction.\n\nUnder the Supreme Court Biennial Appointments and Term Limits Act, only the nine most recently appointed justices would sit for appellate jurisdiction cases. The justices who no longer hear appellate jurisdiction cases would retain the authority to hear original jurisdiction cases and to exercise all other powers of the office. If one of the justices who regularly hears appellate jurisdiction cases has a conflict of interest or is otherwise unavailable to hear a case, another justice who hears only original jurisdiction cases may fill in.\n\nThe legislation also creates regular appointments of Supreme Court justices every two years by requiring the president, within the first 120 days of the first and third years of the president\u2019s term, to appoint one Supreme Court justice, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate.\n\nThe legislation is endorsed by the following organizations: The Brennan Center for Justice, Public Citizen, Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington (CREW), Project on Government Oversight (POGO), Alliance for Justice, End Citizens United/Let America Vote Action Fund, Demand Justice, Newtown Action Alliance, True North Research, and Accountable.US.\n\n\u201cPublic trust in the Supreme Court has fallen to the lowest level recorded. Term limits would help restore trust. They are rooted in a core American value: no one should have too much public power for this long. Americans of all views support Supreme Court term limits, and members of Congress from both parties should work to make Supreme Court term limits a reality,\u201d said Michael Waldman, President and CEO, Brennan Center for Justice.\n\n\u201cThe Founders never envisioned the courts to serve much more than an administrative purpose. But the Supreme Court has now evolved into the most powerful branch of government, dictating what is and is not constitutional, with no oversight and no popular reprieve. Political partisans who cannot win at the polls have tapped into this and stacked the unaccountable court in their favor. Public Citizen wholly endorses this legislation that would help restore the balance of power between the three branches of government,\u201d said Craig Holman, Ph.D., Public Citizen.\n\n\u201cSerious and repeated allegations of ethical misconduct at the Supreme Court have undermined public faith in the judiciary. This self-inflicted crisis has led the Court to its lowest approval rating since Gallup started polling the question, raising serious concerns as to if the Supreme Court\u2019s credibility can survive without meaningful reform,\u201d said Debra Perlin, Policy Director at CREW. \u201cThe Supreme Court Biennial Appointments and Term Limits Act of 2023 is a strong response to this crisis. It uses the Court\u2019s jurisdiction to create term limits for Supreme Court justices and permits those justices whose terms have ended to retain their seats in a senior status position. This legislation could help both to end partisan manipulation of the Court\u2019s composition and to reduce ethics problems among justices. CREW commends Sens. Whitehouse, Booker, Blumenthal, and Padilla for continuing to lead the charge on the need to address Supreme Court ethics and introducing this crucial piece of legislation.\u201d\n\n\u201cSupreme Court justices hold too much power for too long. A single 18-year term limit is a reasonable and necessary step to address this central problem with an unaccountable court. This legislation could also help reduce the incentive to play politics with the court by ending the unpredictable and lengthy terms that justices presently enjoy. We applaud Senators Whitehouse, Booker, Blumenthal, Padilla, Hirono, Merkley, Welch, and Schatz for introducing this sensible bill to limit Supreme Court terms \u2013 a solution that the vast majority of the American public supports. This is an idea whose time has come,\u201d said Sarah Turberville, Director of The Constitution Project at POGO.\n\n\u201cThe Court is more politicized than ever,\u201d said Rakim Brooks, president of Alliance for Justice. \u201cJustices enjoy lavish rewards from conservative billionaires and yet we\u2019re supposed to pretend their decisions are neutral and in the public interest. Term limits are a necessary corrective to this sad state. The founders never intended that judges would serve until their dying breath. If they saw this bunch, I\u2019m sure they\u2019d scream, \u2018Term Limits Now!\u2019\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Supreme Court is in a state of crisis\u2014without common sense reform, the court will continue to work against the American people and undermine our democracy,\u201d said Tiffany Muller, President of End Citizens United // Let America Vote Action Fund. \u201cLimiting justices\u2019 time on the bench is a necessary step in bringing about accountability and rebuilding Americans\u2019 confidence in the Supreme Court. We\u2019re grateful for Senators Whitehouse, Booker, Blumenthal, and Padilla\u2019s continued leadership in the fight to reform the Supreme Court.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis change is vital to restoring public confidence in the independence of the Court. I hope it will also lead to the selection of justices who have more experience demonstrating their ability to be fair as a judge rather than demonstrating to Leonard Leo that they are young ideologues aligned with his extreme agenda to limit our freedoms and reverse important precedents,\u201d said Lisa Graves, Executive Director of True North Research.\n\n\u201cThe Supreme Court is facing a serious legitimacy crisis. Justices\u2019 countless ethics violations \u2014 from undisclosed lavish gifts to influence-peddling in elite circles \u2014 have caused public trust in the Court to plummet to record lows. The Supreme Court Biennial Appointments and Term Limits Act is a necessary step forward in restoring integrity and credibility to our high court. Accountable.US is proud to support Senators Whitehouse, Booker, Blumenthal and Padilla\u2019s critical legislation to ensure that our Supreme Court answers to everyday Americans, not billionaire buddies,\u201d said Accountable.US President Caroline Ciccone.\n\nAmericans\u2019 rapidly declining trust and approval in the Supreme Court is the result of an effort by far-right billionaires and special interests to capture and control the Court. The justices selected and ushered onto the Court by these special interests have repeatedly greenlighted donor-friendly policies, reshaping American life in ways that are out of step with the American people. The cozy relationship between right-wing justices and Republican billionaire donors has been exposed by a series of explosive reports from ProPublica, The New York Times, Politico, and other media organizations on the ethics-free zone around the Court. The Supreme Court Biennial Appointments and Term Limits Act is an effort to depoliticize the appointment of Supreme Court justices and ensure the Court is more accountable to the American people.\n\nThe United States is one of just five countries with life tenure for its highest court. The American people strongly favor making the Supreme Court more representative of and accountable to the public. Recent polling shows that two-thirds of Americans support term limits for Supreme Court justices. There is also widespread support for de-politicizing the Supreme Court confirmation process, which is worsened when some presidents can appoint multiple justices while others appoint none.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-murphy-colleagues-call-for-providing-humanitarian-aid-to-address-emergency-needs-in-gaza", "Booker, Murphy, Colleagues Call for Providing Humanitarian Aid to Address Emergency Needs in Gaza", "2023-10-18", "2023", "2023-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-N.J.) and Chris Murphy (D-CT) on Wednesday urged the Biden administration to lead the international community in contributing to the United Nations\u2019 emergency appeal of $294 million to address the immediate humanitarian needs in the West Bank and Gaza.\n\n\u201cAs a result of the ongoing conflict in Israel and Gaza prompted by Hamas\u2019 horrific terror attacks, more than 1.2 million people are in urgent need of lifesaving humanitarian assistance. More than one million people have fled the violence, stretching the already strained ability of the United Nations and humanitarian partners on the ground to provide the food, medical treatment, and shelter they need to survive,\u201d the Senators wrote.\n\nThe Senators continued: \u201cWe support Israel\u2019s right to defend its people against the brutal attacks carried out by Hamas. Hamas knew that the Israeli government would have to respond to the unconscionable murder and hostage-taking of its citizens and thus bears the blame for initiating this conflict. We also know there are many innocent Palestinians in Gaza who do not support Hamas and urgently need help as they seek to flee the fighting.\u201d\n\nThe senators highlighted the dire situation facing innocent civilians in Gaza: \u201cMore than one million people in Gaza have fled their homes in search of safety, with nearly half of those taking shelter in UN facilities. The United Nations estimates that Gaza will run out of food and water within days. Healthcare facilities are overwhelmed, running desperately short on supplies and impacted by the lack of electricity. The humanitarian needs on the ground have dramatically increased over the past week, and conditions will likely continue to deteriorate in the days and weeks ahead.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe therefore urge you to join the international community in answering the call from the United Nations by contributing toward this lifesaving $294 million appeal, and ask that you work with the UN and its partners to ensure that the assistance reaches the intended recipients without diversion or delay,\u201d the Senators concluded.\n\nThe letter is cosigned by U.S. Senators Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Tom Carper (D-Del.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), Bob Casey (D-Pa.), Patty Murray (D-Wash.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.) , and Maggie Hassan (D-N.H.).\n\nFull text of the letter is available here and below.\n\nThe Honorable Antony Blinken\n\nUnited States Secretary of State\n\nThe State Department\n\n2201 C Street Northwest\n\nWashington, DC 20520\n\nDear Secretary Blinken,\n\nAs a result of the ongoing conflict in Israel and Gaza prompted by Hamas\u2019 horrific terror attacks, more than 1.2 million people are in urgent need of lifesaving humanitarian assistance. More than one million people have fled the violence, stretching the already strained ability of the United Nations and humanitarian partners on the ground to provide the food, medical treatment, and shelter they need to survive. In this context, the UN has released an emergency appeal for $294 million to address these humanitarian needs, help protect displaced people and save countless lives. We urge you to uphold our country\u2019s proud tradition of leading the international community in providing lifesaving relief by contributing funding for international humanitarian assistance toward this UN appeal.\n\nWe support Israel\u2019s right to defend its people against the brutal attacks carried out by Hamas. Hamas knew that the Israeli government would have to respond to the unconscionable murder and hostage-taking of its citizens and thus bears the blame for initiating this conflict. We also know there are many innocent Palestinians in Gaza who do not support Hamas and urgently need help as they seek to flee the fighting. More than one million people in Gaza have fled their homes in search of safety, with nearly half of those taking shelter in UN facilities. The United Nations estimates that Gaza will run out of food and water within days. Healthcare facilities are overwhelmed, running desperately short on supplies and impacted by the lack of electricity. The humanitarian needs on the ground have dramatically increased over the past week, and conditions will likely continue to deteriorate in the days and weeks ahead.\n\nDisplaced people around the world depend on lifesaving humanitarian assistance from the UN and its partners to feed their families, receive medical treatment, and secure shelter. The United States should continue its steadfast support for Israel while also doing our part to help the UN assist innocent civilians as they flee the violence. We therefore urge you to join the international community in answering the call from the United Nations by contributing toward this lifesaving $294 million appeal, and ask that you work with the UN and its partners to ensure that the assistance reaches the intended recipients without diversion or delay.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-rosen-introduce-bipartisan-senate-resolution-demanding-safe-release-of-hostages-from-hamas", "Booker, Rosen Introduce Bipartisan Senate Resolution Demanding Safe Release of Hostages from Hamas", "2023-10-18", "2023", "2023-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Jacky Rosen (D-NV), joined by Senators Todd Young (R-IN), Marco Rubio (R-FL), Foreign Relations Committee Chairman Ben Cardin (D-MD), Bill Cassidy (R-LA), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), and Mitt Romney (R-UT) introduced a bipartisan resolution condemning Hamas\u2019s brutal terrorist attacks on Israel and demanding that Hamas release all hostages and allow for their safe return home. It is estimated that Hamas is holding close to 200 people hostage including children, women, seniors, and American citizens.\n\n\u201cHamas must immediately and unconditionally release all hostages, including American citizens,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cThe United States must continue working with our Israeli and regional partners and offer whatever support necessary to get these hostages safely out of harm\u2019s way.\u201d\n\n\u201cIn Israel, our bipartisan delegation met with the family members of those who were abducted by Hamas. As the only Jewish mother serving in the Senate, these conversations were gut wrenching, and I promised them I\u2019d lead the efforts to ensure these hostages were returned safely to their families,\u201d said Senator Rosen. \u201cThis bipartisan resolution cements our support for the Israeli people, strongly condemns the atrocities carried out by Hamas, and demands the immediate release of the hundreds of hostages, including Americans, being held by this terrorist organization. The Senate must use its voice to call for the swift release of these innocent people.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs part of its terrorist attacks on Israel, Hamas took hostage innocent Americans and Israelis, including children and the elderly,\u201d said Senator Young. \u201cWe strongly condemn these barbaric actions and call on Hamas to immediately and unconditionally free all hostages. The world must join together and pressure Hamas terrorists to release these innocent civilians.\u201d\n\n\u201cFollowing the barbaric attacks of terrorism by Iran-backed Hamas in Israel, this bipartisan resolution sends a clear message of our support to our most important ally in the Middle East and to the Americans who are currently held captive in Gaza,\u201dsaid Senator Rubio. \u201cWe have a moral duty to ensure these hostages return home, to deter future hostage-taking, and not reward Iran\u2019s international support of terrorism by releasing billions of dollars to them.\u201d\n\n\u201cHamas\u2019 abduction of 199 innocent civilians \u2013 including American citizens, Israeli children, and Holocaust survivors \u2013 was an act of pure evil,\u201d said Chairman Cardin. \u201cTheir safe return is my paramount concern, and we are engaged with our regional partners to press Hamas for their immediate release and return to safety.\n\n\u201cThe most powerful meeting we had in Israel was talking with the families of hostages being held by Hamas,\u201d said Dr. Cassidy. \u201cThose being held hostage, and their families, need our support now more than ever. American and Israeli families are hurting.\u201d\n\n\u201cNo innocent civilian\u2014not Israelis, not Palestinians, not Illinoisans, not anyone\u2014deserves to suffer the violence, terrorism, hate and abject heartbreak that too many human souls have faced since last Saturday\u2019s Hamas terrorist attacks,\u201d said Senator Duckworth. \u201cOur bipartisan resolution today sends a message to all hostages\u2014and all families experiencing the agony of having to wonder about the safety and wellbeing of their loved ones\u2014that the United States sees them and is with them. There is never any excuse for terrorism and Hamas must immediately allow those in need of urgent medical care to receive it. I will continue doing everything in my power to ensure the safe release of those being held in Gaza so they can be reunited with their loved ones.\u201d\n\n\u201cMeeting with the families of hostages during my trip to Israel is something I will never forget, and my heart aches over the horrors they have experienced at the hands of Hamas terrorists,\u201d said Senator Romney. \u201cI\u2019m proud to join my friend Senator Rosen in introducing this resolution to condemn Hamas and call on them to release all hostages. We also urge the United States to work with our friends and allies to ensure that everyone taken hostage is returned to their loved ones.\u201d\n\nThe text of the resolution can be found here.\n\nBACKGROUND:\n\nJust days ago, Senator Booker, a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, visited Israel, United Arab Emirates, and Bahrain on a mission to build upon the historic Abraham Accords and strengthen bilateral relationships. Senator Booker was in Jerusalem when Hamas, a U.S.-designated foreign terrorist organization, launched its horrific terror attacks against Israel. The Senator decided it was imperative to continue to UAE and Bahrain to reinforce that only through normalization and increased regional economic, people-to-people, and security ties will terrorist groups and regimes that thrive off instability and fear be marginalized.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/following-i-95-collapse-booker-fetterman-introduce-bill-to-make-fta-emergency-response-program-work-better", "Following I-95 Collapse, Booker, Fetterman Introduce Bill to Make FTA Emergency Response Program Work Better", "2023-10-18", "2023", "2023-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and John Fetterman (D-PA), along with thirteen Senate colleagues, today introduced the Transit Emergency Relief Act, a new bill to improve the Federal Transit Administration\u2019s (FTA) Emergency Response (ER) Program. The bill would bring the FTA ER program into parity with the Federal Highway Administration\u2019s (FHWA) program that serves the same purpose for America\u2019s highways and road infrastructure. The Transit Emergency Relief Actwould provide a consistent funding source for FTA emergency response and grant flexibility to FTA in how funds are allocated so that transit emergencies can receive appropriate funding.\n\n\"This vital legislation will ensure that our transit systems have the support and flexibility they need to respond swiftly and effectively to emergencies,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cAmericans rely on transit agencies to keep our public transport running, even after natural disasters. This bill is about improving emergency responses, providing relief to transit agencies, and safeguarding the critical services that our communities rely on.\"\n\n\u201cThe bottom line is that emergencies should be met with emergency level responses. The collapse and twelve day rebuild of I-95 showed what is possible when we get federal dollars out the door quickly,\u201d said Senator Fetterman. \u201cCurrently, FTA Emergency Response can take months, if not years, to get to transit agencies that need it. Because of this, when disaster strikes, agencies\u2014 which are often already strapped for cash\u2014are forced to foot the bill and hope FTA can reimburse later. The Federal Emergency Relief Act is a simple fix to make a federal program work better and bring real relief to the transit operators that Pennsylvanians rely on.\u201d\n\nFTA ER funds currently take months if not years get to transit operators after natural disasters and other emergencies that negatively impact transit infrastructure, which impedes transit agencies\u2019 abilities to effectively respond to these emergencies. This is in large part because FTA ER funds are only authorized by Congress after disasters that affect transit infrastructure. In contrast, FHWA\u2019s Emergency Relief program can get money where it needs to go mere days after disaster strikes because it has a standing $100 million funding authorization from the Highway Trust Fund.\n\nFollowing the I-95 collapse in Philadelphia, for example, federal dollars through the FHWA Emergency Relief program helped one of the commonwealth\u2019s most important highways get repaired in just 12 days.\n\nThe legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Dick Durbin (D-IL), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Ed Markey (D-MA), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Peter Welch (D-VT), Jack Reed (D-CT), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-ernst-urge-president-biden-to-do-everything-in-his-power-to-rescue-american-hostages", "Booker, Ernst Urge President Biden to Do Everything in His Power to Rescue American Hostages", "2023-10-17", "2023", "2023-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-N.J.) and Joni Ernst (R-IA), co-chairs of the Abraham Accords Caucus, are leading 47 colleagues in urging President Biden to continue putting his full attention on the freeing of American hostages that were taken by Hamas during the terrorist organization\u2019s October 7thattacks on Israel and supporting Israel\u2019s efforts to dismantle the threat of Hamas.\n\nIn the letter, the lawmakers wrote: \u201cWe appreciate that you have sent the U.S. Deputy Special Envoy for Hostage Affairs to Israel to assist in the recovery of the hostages, and we urge you to do everything in your power to secure their safe release.\n\n\u201cHamas has already killed 30 Americans and likely injured many more\u2026The terrorists responsible for these atrocities hide behind human shields while they threaten to livestream the execution of hostages. Hamas has also reportedly demanded the mass release of prisoners in exchange for freeing its hostages and could use the hostages to push for a ceasefire. With several U.S. citizens still missing in the aftermath of the terror group\u2019s brutal attack, we urge you to continue putting your full attention on the freeing of American hostages. Every day must be treated with a sense of urgency.\n\n\u201cAs a result, we urge the United States to continue supporting Israel\u2019s urgent efforts to dismantle the threat of Hamas, provide the necessary resources for Israel\u2019s defense, and continue offering whatever support necessary to immediately and safely rescue kidnapped Americans, with particular attention to those who require urgent medical care.\n\n\u201cWe urge you to encourage our allies and partners in the region to place pressure on Hamas to allow the International Committee of the Red Cross to have access to the hostages while the United States and Israel work to secure their release.\u201d\n\nThe letter is cosigned by U.S. Senators Ricketts (R-Neb.), Tuberville (R-Ala.), Tillis (R-N.C.), Britt (R-Ala.), Boozman (R-Ark.), Barrasso (R-Wyo.), Graham (R-S.C.), Grassley (R-Iowa), Capito (R-W.Va.), Cassidy (R-La.), Mullin (R-Okla.), Scott (R-Fla.), Wicker (R-Miss.), Masto (D-Nev.), Casey (D-Pa.), Brown (D-Ohio), Padilla (D-Calif.), Coons (D-Del.), Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Tester (D-Mont.), Smith (D-Minn.), Shaheen (D-N.H.), Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Hagerty (R-Tenn.), Hoeven (R-N.D.), Durbin (D-Ill.), Murphy (D-Conn.), Rosen (D-Nev.), Daines (R-Mont.), Risch (R-Idaho), Duckworth (D-Ill.), Cornyn (R-Texas), Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Baldwin (D-Wis.), Bennet (D-Colo.), Sullivan (R-Alaska), Lankford (R-Okla.), Warner (D-Va.), Schatz (D-Hawaii), Van Hollen (D-Md.), Kelly (D-Ariz.), Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Cramer (R-N.D.), Budd (R-N.C.), and Representatives Miller-Meeks (R-Iowa), Schultz (D-Fla.), and Issa (R-Calif.).\n\nThe full text of the letter can be found here.\n\nBackground:\n\nSenator Booker recently visited Israel, United Arab Emirates, and Bahrain on a Congressional Delegation to build upon his work to not only strengthen bilateral relationships but also enhance the historic Abraham Accords. The Senator was in Israel in the wake of Hamas\u2019 horrific terror attacks against the country, and he continued his CODEL trip to UAE and Bahrain to reinforce the new relationships forged through the Abraham Accords, and to reinforce that only through increased economic and security ties will terrorist groups and regimes that thrive off instability and fear be marginalized.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-murphy-britt-rosen-capito-call-for-increased-funding-to-nonprofit-security-grant-program", "Booker, Murphy, Britt, Rosen, Capito Call for Increased Funding to Nonprofit Security Grant Program", "2023-10-11", "2023", "2023-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Amid heightened concerns about the safety and security of the American Jewish community following this weekend\u2019s attacks on Israel, U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Katie Britt (R-AL), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), and Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.V.) on Tuesday called for additional funding for FEMA\u2019s Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) to be included in any supplemental funding package Congress may consider. The NSGP, which is funded through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, provides funding support for target hardening and other physical security enhancements to nonprofit organizations, including synagogues and other places of worship, that are at high risk of terrorist attack.\n\n\u201cThe harrowing images coming out of Israel and the rising toll of confirmed deaths and number of civilians being held hostage by Hamas -- including American citizens -- are devastating and remind us that we cannot ignore the rise in antisemitism around the world or here at home. It\u2019s crucial that we take every precaution to keep all of our religious communities safe. In addition to providing security assistance to Israel, Congress should increase funding for the Department of Homeland Security\u2019s Nonprofit Security Grant Program, which provides important resources to safeguard nonprofits that are at an increased risk of violence, including Jewish houses of worship and other religious-affiliated groups across the country,\u201d said Senator Booker.\n\n\u201cThe horrific images and videos we are seeing out of Israel are unspeakable, and I am doing everything in my power to ensure Israel gets the support it needs to defend itself. As Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security, I am also focused on making sure our Jewish community at home is protected from a potential rise in anti-Semitic threats. As Congress considers emergency supplemental legislation in the coming weeks, we must include increased funding for DHS\u2019s Nonprofit Security Grant Program to help safeguard the Jewish Community here at home,\u201d said Senator Murphy.\n\n\u201cThe barbaric attacks on innocent children, women, and men in Israel are heartbreaking and stomach-turning. Now more than ever, we must be unequivocally strong in our response and unreservedly clear in our purpose. As I work with colleagues on both sides of the aisle in the days, weeks, and months ahead to ensure Israel has everything it needs to defend itself with overwhelming force, we must also vigilantly guard against terrorism and the forces of hate here at home. I support robust funding for the Nonprofit Security Grant Program to help secure our homeland and keep our families, places of worship, and communities safe,\u201d said Senator Britt.\n\n\u201cThe hearts of all Americans are shattered after seeing Hamas\u2019s deadly terrorist attacks on Israel. As we witness a surge in antisemitic activity worldwide, we must make sure that Jewish Americans are protected from the threat of antisemitism,\u201d said Senator Rosen. \u201cAs co-chair of the bipartisan Senate Task Force for Combating Antisemitism, I\u2019m working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to increase funding for the life-saving Nonprofit Security Grant Program. This critical funding ensures that synagogues, community centers, and other nonprofits have the resources needed to protect themselves from targeted violence.\u201d\n\n\u201cThroughout my time on the Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee, I have seen and learned about the need so many have for funds through this program. Ensuring its inclusion in a supplemental further confirms our commitment to the safety and security for communities of faith, particularly synagogues across the nation that are too often the target of threats,\u201d said Senator Capito.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-calls-for-congressional-action-in-wake-of-hamas-attacks-against-israel", "Booker Calls for Congressional Action in Wake of Hamas Attacks Against Israel", "2023-10-09", "2023", "2023-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, is calling on Congress to immediately pass additional security assistance to Israel, confirm key diplomatic and military appointments, and boost resources for programs that support the security of nonprofits that may be at increased risk here at home in the wake of violence in Israel.\n\n\u201cThe harrowing images coming out of Israel and the rising toll of confirmed deaths and number of civilians being held hostage by Hamas -- including American citizens -- are devastating,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cWe must do all we can to support the people of Israel who are facing unimaginable pain, innocent Palestinian civilians who are also victims of violence, and American families who have lost or are missing loved ones.\n\nBooker continued, \u201cIn the wake of Hamas\u2019 unprecedented and ongoing attacks and acts of terror, it is critical that Congress act quickly to pass additional security funding for our ally Israel, including Iron Dome replenishment.\n\n\u201cAdditionally, the Senate must swiftly confirm nominees to key diplomatic roles in the region that have been stalled, including ambassador roles in Israel, Egypt, Lebanon, Oman, and Kuwait; the State Department\u2019s Coordinator for Counterterrorism; and USAID\u2019s Assistant Administrator for the Middle East. The unreasonable obstruction in the Senate holding up more than 300 US military nominees, including top officers who would command US forces in the Middle East, must end. At a time when hostilities abroad are escalating, America can ill-afford to have our military readiness and capability compromised in any way.\n\n\u201cWe also cannot ignore the rise in antisemitism or threats to American religious communities, and we must take extra precaution here at home to ensure their safety and security. That is why Congress should increase funding for the Department of Homeland Security\u2019s Nonprofit Security Grant Program, which provides important resources to safeguard nonprofits that are at an increased risk of violence, including houses of worship and religious-affiliated groups across the country.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/statement-on-senator-bookers-departure-from-israel", "Statement on Senator Booker\u2019s Departure from Israel", "2023-10-08", "2023", "2023-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Maya Krishna-Rogers, a spokesperson for Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), issued the following statement:\n\n\u201cOn Friday, October 6, Senator Booker arrived in Israel for several days of planned meetings and site visits ahead of the start of an Abraham Accords-focused N7 summit on regional economic integration in Tel Aviv, at which he was scheduled to speak on Tuesday. Senator Booker and accompanying staff were in Jerusalem when Hamas launched their attacks against Israel on Saturday, and sheltered in place for their safety. We are grateful that Senator Booker and our colleagues were able to safely depart Israel earlier today.\u201d\n\nBooker is a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-statement-on-israel", "Booker Statement on Israel", "2023-10-07", "2023", "2023-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. -- U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, issued the following statement:\n\n\u201cI emphatically condemn Hamas' horrific acts of violence, kidnapping and terror targeting Israeli families, children and other civilians in towns and cities across the nation of Israel. I stand with the people of Israel and the families of those who have lost loved ones.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-statement-on-azerbaijan", "Booker Statement on Azerbaijan", "2023-10-05", "2023", "2023-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, issued the following statement:\n\n\u201cThe world has watched as Azerbaijan has committed unconscionable abuses against ethnic Armenians in Nagorno-Karabakh. From the inhumane blockade of humanitarian assistance, the use of military force to take over Nagorno-Karabakh, the detention of political leaders, and now the mass displacement of Armenians\u2014it is clear that these systematic acts of oppression and violence towards Armenians meet the benchmark of ethnic cleansing.\n\n\u201cI strongly support an immediate halt and reevaluation of all United States assistance to Azerbaijan, and urge the Aliyev regime to immediately allow access to independent observers. We must also work to prevent further military action by Azerbaijan.\n\n\u201cThe United States must step up our existing efforts to provide humanitarian assistance to the tens of thousands of ethnic Armenians who have been forced from their homes in Nagorno-Karabakh. Over one hundred years have passed since the Armenian genocide\u2014the United States and international community have a moral responsibility to ensure that history does not repeat itself.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-applauds-nomination-of-edward-kiel-to-us-district-court-of-new-jersey", "Booker Applauds Nomination of Edward Kiel to U.S. District Court of New Jersey", "2023-10-04", "2023", "2023-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker, a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, applauded President Biden\u2019s nomination of Judge Edward Kiel to the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey.\n\n\u201cJudge Edward Kiel is an outstanding nominee who is highly qualified and committed to upholding the law,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cI\u2019m confident he will serve the people of New Jersey and the country with integrity, bringing his wealth of legal experience and knowledge to our federal bench. I thank President Biden for this nomination, and I look forward to Judge Kiel\u2019s hearing before the Judiciary Committee and confirmation by the Senate.\u201d\n\nJudge Edward S. Kiel has been a United States Magistrate Judge for the District of New Jersey since 2019. Previously, Judge Kiel was a partner at Cole Schotz, P.C. from 2002 to 2019. Before that, he was an associate at Cole Schotz from 1998 to 2001, at Beattie Padovano from 1994 to 1998, and at Jamieson Moore Peskin & Spicer from 1992 to 1994. Judge Kiel served as a law clerk on the Superior Court of New Jersey, Somerset County from 1991 to 1992. He received his J.D. from Notre Dame Law School in 1991 and his B.A. in Economics and B.S. in Electrical Engineering from Rutgers University in 1988.\n\nPresident Joe Biden has nominated and the Senate has confirmed eight judges to the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey: Julien X. Neals, Zahid Quraishi, Christine O\u2019Hearn, Karen Williams, Georgette Castner, Evelyn Padin, Michael Fabiarz, and Robert Kirsch. Last month, President Biden nominated Jamel Semper to the court, and Booker spoke today in support of Semper\u2019s nomination as he was introduced to the Senate Judiciary Committee.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-cruz-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-target-online-sales-of-illicit-drugs-laced-with-fentanyl", "Booker, Cruz Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Target Online Sales of Illicit Drugs Laced with Fentanyl", "2023-10-03", "2023", "2023-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Ted Cruz (R-TX) introduced the Targeting Online Sales of Fentanyl Act, legislation that would address the online sale of counterfeit pills laced with fentanyl. Specifically, the legislation would require the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to investigate the methods used to enable the online sale of fentanyl and assess the efforts of federal law enforcement and online providers in combatting the issue.\n\nThe legislation comes as more Americans died from drug overdoses in 2022 than any year prior, and an alarming number of those fatalities stemmed from the online sale of counterfeit pills laced with fentanyl. During just a two-month period in 2021, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) identified 76 cases where traffickers advertised drugs on social media. The National Association of Boards of Pharmacy (NABP) discovered that nearly 95% of the 35,000 online pharmacies operated illegally and experts detect over 10,000 new drug-related accounts on social media every month.\n\n\u201cThe online sale of illicit drugs laced with fentanyl has had a devastating effect: drug overdoses now surpass suicide, traffic accidents, and gun violence as one of the leading causes of preventable death among people aged 18 to 45,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cThis legislation will provide answers of how best to disrupt online drug distribution channels, helping lawmakers craft evidence-based solutions that effectively address the issue.\u201d\n\n\u201cOur nation\u2019s drug overdose crisis\u2014fueled by fentanyl\u2014has claimed upwards of 70,000 American lives,\u201d said Senator Cruz. \u201cThis fentanyl is often marketed and sold online. I am proud to work with Sen. Booker to introduce bipartisan legislation that scrutinize exact numbers underlying this crisis and allow us to work towards comprehensive solutions to the fentanyl pandemic.\u201d\n\nThe Targeting Online Sales of Fentanyl Act would require the GAO to provide a report within one year on the following areas:\n\nthe business models and techniques employed by online fentanyl traffickers;\n\nthe utilization of social media platforms in facilitating fentanyl transactions involving youth;\n\nthe scope and effectiveness of federal initiatives aimed at countering online fentanyl sales, including intergovernmental and interagency collaborations;\n\nthe enforcement mechanisms and processes employed by online providers to detect and report transactions; and\n\nan analysis of the outcomes of referrals to law enforcement agencies regarding online fentanyl sales, along with areas requiring improvement\n\nThe bill is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Mike Lee (R-UT), Peter Welch (D-VT), Tom Tillis (R-NC), Chris Coons (D-DE), and Bob Casey (D-PA).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:49:26Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-statement-on-senate-vote-to-avert-government-shutdown", "Booker Statement on Senate Vote to Avert Government Shutdown", "2023-09-30", "2023", "2023-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. -- U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) issued the following statement after voting for stopgap funding legislation to avert a disastrous government shutdown:\n\n\u201cI\u2019m relieved that a crisis manufactured by Republicans in the House is on track to be narrowly avoided. I\u2019m beyond frustrated that it came to this, at the 11th hour.\n\n\u201cTimes like these demand leadership that puts our country first. Not party, not position, but country. The kind of leadership that\u2019s been missing among too many House Republicans.\n\n\u201cThe people of Ukraine are on the front lines of the fight for democracy and freedom. Our commitment to standing by Ukraine and our shared values will continue to be unwavering. I am confident the Senate will continue to support sustained funding and assistance for Ukraine as they continue the fight to defend their homeland from Putin\u2019s unjust and illegal war.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m encouraged that Democrats and Republicans in the Senate joined together in efforts to prevent a shutdown. I\u2019m proud that House Democrats stood up to extremists to preserve essential programs that Americans count on. And I look forward to voting on a Ukraine supplemental bill as soon as possible.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:37:48Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-scott-sickle-cell-disease-awareness-month-resolution-passes-the-senate", "Booker, Scott Sickle Cell Disease Awareness Month Resolution Passes the Senate", "2023-09-27", "2023", "2023-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 This week, the U.S. Senate unanimously passed U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-N.J.) and Tim Scott\u2019s (R-S.C.) resolution designating September as Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) Awareness Month.\n\nSCD is an inherited blood disorder that leads to numerous medical complications, including anemia, jaundice, gallstones, strokes, and chronic pain episodes. In the United States, about 100,000 individuals grapple with the challenges posed by SCD, and an estimated 1,000 babies are born with SCD each year, disproportionately affecting Black infants.\n\n\"Designating September as Sickle Cell Disease Awareness Month is a crucial step toward raising awareness around SCD and combatting this devastating disease,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cSickle cell disease is the most common inherited blood disorder in our country, affecting mostly those from marginalized communities. I applaud my Senate colleagues for passing this important resolution, which serves as an opportunity to raise awareness and push for more research and support for those living with SCD.\"\n\n\u201cSickle cell continues to affect thousands of Americans, oftentimes those without access to specialized care,\u201d said Senator Scott. \u201cThis resolution raises awareness for this debilitating disease and fights to provide access to treatment so those affected can manage their healthcare and, eventually, have access to future cures.\u201d\n\nWith more than 3,000,000 individuals in the United States carrying the sickle cell trait and approximately 1 in 13 Black or African Americans carrying the trait, there is an urgent need for increased awareness and support. Sickle cell anemia significantly reduces life expectancy by more than 20 years. SCD is also a leading cause of childhood stroke, making early screening and preventive measures paramount.\n\nThe resolution is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Raphael Warnock (D-GA), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Tom Carper (D-DE), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), James Lankford (R-OK), Marco Rubio (R-FL), Todd Young (R-IN), and Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:37:48Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-mullin-introduce-bipartisan-prescription-information-modernization-act", "Booker, Mullin Introduce Bipartisan Prescription Information Modernization Act", "2023-09-26", "2023", "2023-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) introduced the bipartisan Prescription Information Modernization Act, legislation that would enable the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to implement a rule that allows drug manufacturers to transmit prescribing information electronically in order to reduce waste, improve efficiency, and ensure that healthcare professionals have access to the latest drug information.\n\nPrescribing information is crucial for healthcare professionals to make informed decisions about drug prescriptions. However, under current regulations, this information is required to be printed which leads to excessive paper use and the distribution of outdated materials.\n\n\"Our health care system has been slow to adopt the latest technology that can help make our health care more efficient,\u201d Senator Booker. \u201cBy ensuring our healthcare system embraces digital innovation, we can help reduce waste and prioritize access to accurate information. I am proud to introduce this bipartisan legislation that will modernize our health care practices and help improve patient outcomes.\"\n\n\u201cCurrent prescription information distribution is outdated for the digital age,\u201d said Senator Mullin. \u201cElectronic prescriptions will simplify how providers access and manage prescription data, improving efficiency without compromising patient care quality. I am confident this change will help medical professionals provide the most up-to-date, accurate care to their patients.\"\n\nThe legislation is cosponsored by the following organizations: The Alliance to Modernize Prescribing Information, Academy of Managed Care Pharmacy (AMCP), Allergy & Asthma Network, American Pharmacists Association, AmGen, Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America, Association for Accessible Medicines, Beyond Type 1, Biotechnology Innovation Organization, BioNJ, BioUtah, Boomer Esiason Foundation, Environmental Paper Network, Georgia Bio, Healthcare Distribution Alliance, HealthCare Institute of New Jersey, LUNGevity Foundation, Lupin, Maryland Tech Council, MassBio, McKesson, National Association of Chain Drug Stores, National Consumers League, National Grange, NewYorkBIO, North Carolina Biosciences Organization, Texas Healthcare and Biosciences Institute, and Zero Cancer.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:37:48Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-statement-on-senator-robert-menendez", "Booker Statement on Senator Robert Menendez", "2023-09-26", "2023", "2023-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) issued the following statement:\n\n\u201cFor nearly a decade, I\u2019ve worked in the Senate alongside Senator Menendez. As New Jersey\u2019s junior Senator, I imagine that I\u2019ve had more professional experiences with him than most others, and I\u2019ve witnessed his extraordinary work and boundless work ethic. I\u2019ve consistently found Senator Menendez to be intellectually gifted, tough, passionate, and deeply empathic. We have developed a working relationship and a friendship that I value and believe has furthered our effectiveness in serving New Jersey.\n\n\u201cSenator Menendez is again facing a federal indictment, one that contains shocking allegations of corruption and specific, disturbing details of wrongdoing. I\u2019ve found the allegations hard to reconcile with the person I know.\n\n\u201cIt is not surprising to me that Senator Menendez is again determined to mount a vigorous defense. And I still believe he, like anyone involved with our criminal justice system, deserves our presumption of innocence until proven guilty. A jury of his peers will make the ultimate decision as to whether he is criminally guilty.\n\n\u201cThere is, however, another higher standard for public officials, one not of criminal law but of common ideals. As Senators, we operate in the public trust. That trust is essential to our ability to do our work and perform our duties for our constituents.\n\n\u201cThe details of the allegations against Senator Menendez are of such a nature that the faith and trust of New Jerseyans as well as those he must work with in order to be effective have been shaken to the core.\n\n\u201cAs Senator Menendez prepares to mount his legal defense, he has stated that he will not resign. Senator Menendez fiercely asserts his innocence and it is therefore understandable that he believes stepping down is patently unfair. But I believe this is a mistake.\n\n\u201cStepping down is not an admission of guilt but an acknowledgment that holding public office often demands tremendous sacrifices at great personal cost. Senator Menendez has made these sacrifices in the past to serve. And in this case he must do so again. I believe stepping down is best for those Senator Menendez has spent his life serving.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:37:48Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-lee-urge-usda-for-greater-transparency-in-dairy-programs", "Booker, Lee Urge USDA for Greater Transparency in Dairy Programs", "2023-09-25", "2023", "2023-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-N.J.) and Mike Lee (R-UT) expressed concern in a letter to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) over its failure to publish annual reports to Congress on its dairy checkoff programs and urged the Department to take immediate action.\n\nFederal law \u2013 enacted by the Dairy Production Stabilization Act of 1983 -- mandates that the USDA submit annual reports on the dairy checkoff to Congress. The reports need to detail the activities conducted, account for the receipt and disbursement of funds, and include an independent analysis of the effectiveness of the dairy checkoff program. However, the USDA has not provided reports for 2021 and 2022, and only published 2020\u2019s report last week, hours after receiving Booker and Lee\u2019s letter.\n\n\u201cWe write to express deep concern regarding the U.S. Department of Agriculture\u2019s (USDA) ongoing failure to publish annual reports to Congress on the National Dairy Promotion and Research Program and the National Fluid Milk Processor Promotion Program,\u201d wrote Senators Booker and Lee to USDA Secretary Thomas Vilsack.\n\nFurther, Senators Booker and Lee raised concerns about the lack of transparency in how dairy producer's dollars are spent since the last report was submitted to Congress.\n\n\u201cAmerica\u2019s dairy farmers have paid nearly $1 billion in mandatory checkoff fees [since 2019] to the National Dairy Promotion and Research Program. At the same time, we have witnessed the loss of more than 6,000 dairy operations across our rural communities. The time is now for your Department to disclose how these dollars were spent and evaluate the effectiveness of those efforts,\u201d continued the Senators.\n\nSenators Booker and Lee concluded the letter by requesting the release of the outstanding reports. They also requested a written justification by September 29, 2023 if the USDA continues to fail to publish these reports.\n\nThe letter is cosigned by U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA); U.S. Representatives Nancy Mace (R-SC), Dina Titus (D-NV), Thomas Massie (R-KY), Luis Correa (D-CA), Greg Casar (D-TX), and Earl Blumenauer (D-OR).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:37:48Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-wyden-clarke-introduce-bicameral-bill-to-regulate-use-of-artificial-intelligence-to-make-critical-decisions-like-housing-employment-and-education", "Booker, Wyden, Clarke Introduce Bicameral Bill to Regulate Use of Artificial Intelligence to Make Critical Decisions like Housing, Employment and Education", "2023-09-21", "2023", "2023-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-N.J.) and Ron Wyden (D-OR) and U.S. Representative Yvette Clarke (D-N.Y.) introduced the bicameralAlgorithmic Accountability Act of 2023, to create new protections for people affected by AI systems that are already impacting decisions affecting housing, credit, education and other high-impact uses. The bill applies to new generative AI systems used for critical decisions, as well as other AI and automated systems.\n\n\u201cWe know of too many real-world examples of AI systems that have flawed or biased algorithms: automated processes used in hospitals that understate the health needs of Black patients; recruiting and hiring tools that discriminate against women and minority candidates; facial recognition systems with higher error rates among people with darker skin; and more. The Algorithmic Accountability Act would require that automated systems be assessed for biases, hold bad actors accountable, and ultimately help to create a safer AI future,\u201d said Senator Booker.\n\n\u201cAI is making choices, today, about who gets hired for a job, whether someone can rent an apartment and what school someone can attend. Our bill will pull back the curtain on these systems to require ongoing testing to make sure artificial intelligence that is responsible for critical decisions actually works, and doesn\u2019t amplify bias based on where a person lives, where they go to church or the color of their skin,\u201dsaid Senator Wyden.\n\n\u201cAmericans do not forfeit their civil liberties when they go online. But when corporations with vast resources continue to allow their AI systems to carry biases against vulnerable groups, the reality is that countless have and will continue to face prejudice in digital spaces,\u201d said Representative Clarke. \u201cNo longer can lines of code remain exempt from our anti-discrimination laws. My bill recognizes that every algorithm has an author and every bias has an origin and that, through proper regulation, we can ensure safety, inclusion, and equity are truly priorities in critical decisions affecting Americans' lives.\u201d\n\nThe bill requires companies to conduct impact assessments for effectiveness, bias and other factors, when using artificial intelligence to make critical decisions. It also creates, for the first time, a public repository at the Federal Trade Commission of these systems, and adds 75 staff to the commission to enforce the law.\n\n\u201cFrom determining employment decisions to granting personal loans, algorithms are increasingly making critical decisions about Americans\u2019 health, finances, housing, education, and access to opportunities \u2013 but they\u2019re too often flawed and amplify harmful biases,\u201d said Senator Warren. \u201cThis bill will help ensure greater transparency on the impacts of algorithms, and it will empower the FTC to better protect consumers.\u201d\n\n\"Consumers deserve to know when and how important decisions, like loan approvals, are decided by automated systems,\" said Senator Luj\u00e1n. \"That's why I'm proud to join my colleagues in introducing the Algorithmic Accountability Act to implement safeguards, limit biases, and hold automated systems accountable.\"\n\n\u201cAs the use of AI and algorithmic decision making becomes more prevalent\u2014particularly by companies that make critical decisions about Americans\u2019 health, finances, housing, and educational opportunities\u2014we must ensure that there are sufficient regulations and standards in place to protect people from bias and discrimination,\u201d said Senator Hirono. \u201cI am glad to cosponsor the Algorithmic Accountability Act to strengthen consumer protections and increase accountability for companies using algorithms to make decisions.\u201d\n\n\u201cAlgorithms play a significant role in the way society interacts and behaves every single day, whether we like it or not,\u201d said Senator Merkley. \u201cWhile some algorithms may appear harmless, there are few boundaries and little public insight into how these systems operate. Big tech companies and developers must be transparent with the public about how they use our data to shape every aspect of our lives, because we know AI has the potential to exacerbate discrimination and inequality. This bill is step one.\u201d\n\n\u201cTransparency is the best way to build in both accountability and trust that artificial intelligence systems are working responsibly, especially as more industries adopt these tools,\u201d said Senator Peters. \u201cAmericans should know when they are interacting with automated systems that are making critical decisions that could impact their health, finances, civil rights, and more.\u201d\n\nIt is co-sponsored by U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich, D-N.M., Gary Peters, D-Mich., Bob Casey, D-Pa., Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n, D-N.M., Tammy Baldwin, D-Wis., Jeff Merkley, D-Ore., Sheldon Whitehouse, D-R.I., Brian Schatz, D-Hawaii, Mazie Hirono, D-Hawaii, and Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass. In the House, the bill is cosponsored by: Rep. Ayanna Pressley, D-Mass., Rep. Nanette Diaz Barragan, D-Calif., Rep. Cori Bush, D-Mo., Rep. Jamaal Bowman, D-N.Y., Rep. Dwight Evans, D-Pa., Rep. Lori Trahan, D-Mass., Rep. Steve Cohen, D-Tenn., Rep. Andre Carson, D-Ind., Rep. Marc Veasey, D-Texas, Rep. Frederica S. Wilson, D-Fla., Rep. Pramila Jayapal, D-Wash., Rep. Jared Huffman, D-Calif., Rep. Robin L. Kelly, D-Ill., and Rep. Emanuel Cleaver, D-Mo.\n\n\"As AI and generative AI systems become mainstreamed and popularized, we must ensure there are appropriate safeguards put in place,\" said Ya?l Eisenstat, Vice President of the Anti-Defamation League's Center for Tech & Society. \"We have already seen how social media platforms leverage AI-powered systems without any real accountability and, at times, spread hate and antisemitism as a result. We need transparency into how these systems operate and guardrails around what they can and cannot do. Senator Wyden's Algorithmic Accountability Act is an important effort to provide the public with needed information on how these systems are being used and the assurance that companies are monitoring the impacts of these new technologies.\"\n\n\u201cPoorly designed algorithms can result in inaccurate outcomes, inconsistent results, serious discriminatory impacts, and other harms,\u201d said Justin Brookman, Director of Technology Policy at Consumer Reports. \u201cThe Algorithmic Accountability Act is an important foundation to provide researchers and policymakers with the tools to identify who can be impacted by these emerging technologies and how. We look forward to continue working with the sponsors of the bill to seek out the most effective ways to mitigate algorithmic harm.\u201d\n\nThe Algorithmic Accountability Act is endorsed by a broad array of experts and civil society organizations: Access Now, Accountable Tech, Aerica Shimizu Banks, Anti-Defamation League, Center for Democracy and Technology (CDT), Color of Change, Consumer Reports, Encode Justice, EPIC, Fight for the Future, IEEE, Montreal AI Ethics Institute, National Hispanic Media Coalition, New America\u2019s Open Technology Institute, Vera and US PIRG.\n\nThe full text of the bill can be found here.\n\nA summary of the bill can be found here.\n\nA section-by-section of the bill can be found here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:37:48Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-statement-on-safer-banking-act", "Booker Statement on SAFER Banking Act", "2023-09-20", "2023", "2023-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) issued the following statement:\n\n\u201cWith the assurance of Majority Leader Schumer that the HOPE Act, which will support states with grants so they can seek to expunge cannabis records, will be incorporated into this legislation on the Senate floor, I\u2019m cosponsoring the SAFER Banking Act to begin the process of reforming our broken federal cannabis laws.\n\n\u201cThis bill will take cannabis banking out of the shadows and give access to the banking system to thousands of small businesses. With the addition of HOPE, it will take a needed step toward restorative justice. For too long, our laws involving marijuana have undermined the ability for small businesses and entrepreneurs from all backgrounds to succeed on a more level playing field with the wealthy and highly capitalized corporations. And for too long, the prohibition on marijuana has disproportionately targeted low-income, minority, and disadvantaged communities. Finally, we have a bill that is moving us in the right direction and making meaningful strides toward justice.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m grateful to my colleagues for working with me to ensure key provisions were included in this bill that will increase access to capital for small and minority-owned businesses and increase banking services for underserved communities. Even after this bill is passed, there will be a lot more work to do to reverse the many injustices of our nation\u2019s failed marijuana policies but the SAFER Banking Act will represent a first step down the long road of redemption.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:37:48Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-boozman-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-improve-prostate-cancer-detection", "Booker, Boozman Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Improve Prostate Cancer Detection", "2023-09-14", "2023", "2023-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-N.J.) and John Boozman (R-AR) introduced the bipartisan Prostate-Specific Antigen Screening for High-risk Insured Men Act, legislation that would require private health insurance plans to cover preventive prostate cancer screenings without imposing any cost sharing requirements for men who are at high risk of developing prostate cancer.\n\nProstate cancer affects 1 in 8 American men in their lifetime. Further, individuals who have at least one close family member diagnosed with the disease are at least twice as likely to be diagnosed themselves. The risk increases with each additional family member affected. Additionally, prostate cancer disproportionately affects African-American men as they are 1.8 times more likely to receive a prostate cancer diagnosis and 2.2 times more likely to die from the disease.\n\nCurrently, the Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) test is the most effective tool for detecting prostate cancer. In many cases, prostate cancer is initially identified through this test as it measures the levels of PSA in the blood\u2014a substance produced by the prostate that can be elevated in individuals with prostate cancer. Prostate cancer detected in Stage 1 is almost 100% survivable, compared to below 30% if caught at a later stage.\n\n\"Costs shouldn\u2019t impose a barrier between people and lifesaving health screening services,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cProstate cancer is a serious health concern, especially for African-American men and men with family history of this disease as they are more likely to face diagnosis and mortality. This bipartisan legislation would make prostate cancer screenings are more accessible to all high-risk men, so we can reduce health disparities and increase early detection to save lives.\"\n\n\u201cDiagnosing prostate cancer early is imperative to successful treatment. I know from personal experience in my own family the impact this disease has on patients and their loved ones. Increasing access to early screening for at-risk men will save lives. I am proud to be a voice in Congress for all those affected, because together we can help keep prostate cancer treatable and raise needed awareness,\u201d said Senator Boozman.\n\n\"Every step towards eliminating financial barriers to prostate cancer screening is a win for men and their families, particularly those at the highest risk for the disease, and the PSA for HIM Act is a significant step forward. We appreciate the leadership of Senator Booker and Senator Boozman and their efforts to make prostate cancer screening accessible to all,\" said Courtney Bugler, President and CEO of ZERO Prostate Cancer. \"By ensuring that every individual has the opportunity for early detection and timely intervention, we are advancing significant progress to safeguard the health of our communities.\"\n\n\"Increasing the rate of prostate cancer early detection screening for Black men is vital to reducing the death rate disparity, which is the largest for any of the major cancers. The PSA Screening for HIM Act will be a strong catalyst to increase screening by removing the financial barrier that is faced by many. PHEN emphatically supports this legislation that will save countless lives and lead the way in addressing the prostate cancer racial disparity,\" said Thomas A. Farrington, Prostate Health Education Network (PHEN) President and Founder.\n\n\u201cScreening can help detect prostate cancer at an early stage before the disease becomes more advanced and more difficult to treat; however out-of-pocket costs such as co-pays can be a barrier to accessing early detection,\u201d said Lisa A. Lacasse, president of the American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network. \u201cThe PSA Screening for HIM Act would remove a significant barrier that prevents far too many at high risk for prostate cancer, including those in the Black community, from getting screened. We thank Sens. Booker and Boozman for introducing this bill and look forward to working with them to get it passed.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe introduction of the Senate companion to the PSA for HIM Act is a tremendous win for prostate cancer patients,\u201d said Eugene Rhee, MD, MBA, chair of the American Urological Association\u2019s Public Policy Council. \u201cThis legislation will ensure that people who are at a higher risk of being diagnosed with prostate cancer are able to access screenings without cost-sharing barriers. Receiving regular PSA screenings can be the difference between catching this cancer early and being diagnosed with metastatic disease.\u201d\n\nThe legislation is endorsed by the following organizations: Active Surveillance Patients International, American Cancer Society Cancer Action Network, Inc., American Urological Association (AUA), Cancer & Careers, Cancer ABC's, Cancer Support Community, CancerCare, FORCE (Facing Our Risk of Cancer Empowered), National Alliance of State Prostate Cancer Coalitions, Patient Empowerment Network, Prostate Cancer Foundation, Prostate Cancer Research Institute, Prostate Conditions Education Council, Prostate Health Education Network, RetireSafe, Seattle Children's Foundation, Sexual Medicine Society of North America, Society for Basic Urologic Research, Society of Urologic Nurses and Associates, Society of Urologic Oncology, Society of Women in Urology, Stand Up To Cancer, Triage Cancer, UsTOO Support Programs, ZERO Urology Care Foundation, Veterans Prostate Cancer Awareness Inc., ZERO Prostate Cancer.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:37:48Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-hayes-grijalva-introduce-bicameral-legislation-to-strengthen-environmental-education-and-sustainability-literacy-in-schools", "Booker, Hayes, Grijalva Introduce Bicameral Legislation to Strengthen Environmental Education and Sustainability Literacy in Schools", "2023-09-14", "2023", "2023-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.) and U.S. Representatives Jahana Hayes (D-CT) and Ra\u00fal Grijalva (D-AZ) introduced the bicameral Green Ribbon Act, legislation that would promote environmental education, health and wellness, and sustainability literacy in schools across the United States. The legislation would build upon the ED-Green Ribbon Schools Program, which was established in 2011 by the U.S. Department of Education.\n\nThe U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon Schools (ED-GRS) is a public engagement initiative for school sustainability that is structured as a federal recognition award. ED-GRS celebrates these schools, districts, postsecondary institutions, and early learning centers\u2019 cost-saving, health-promoting, and performance-enhancing sustainability practices by bringing more attention to their work. Since its inception, the ED-Green Ribbon Schools Program has been recognizing schools that excel in environmental leadership, health and wellness, and sustainability literacy. With over 700 schools awarded, including more than 40% from resource-constrained areas, the program has been incentivizing the adoption of environmentally friendly practices within the country\u2019s educational system.\n\n\"We must ensure schools are better able to adopt environmentally friendly practices which will help foster a healthier learning environment for our children,\" said Senator Booker. \"This bicameral legislation will expand on the successes of the ED-Green Ribbon Schools Program so more schools, especially those from underserved communities, can provide all students with access to facilities that promote a better environment for health and learning. By recognizing the vital role of sustainability practices and incentivizing schools to adopt environmentally friendly standards, we can help create a greener future for all.\"\n\n\u201cMaking long-term investments in building a cleaner, healthier future now is more critical than ever. Since 2013, 20 Connecticut schools have been recognized as Green Ribbon Schools for their leadership in green practices and initiatives. So many schools in our communities are dedicated to implementing and maintaining school sustainability efforts,\u201d said Representative Hayes. \u201cExpanding the Green Ribbon Schools program through the Green Ribbon Act would encourage more students, faculty and administrators to incorporate sustainable practices in schools, especially those in underserved communities.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Green Ribbon Award currently serves as a popular public engagement initiative for school sustainability and helps to curb climate impacts, however, it\u2019s critical we open this program to additional participants,\u201d said Representative Grijalva. \u201cThat\u2019s why I\u2019m proud to co-lead the Green Ribbon Act which will extend the current program to other learning institutions like museums and zoos as well as strengthen the pipeline of participation. Together, we can work to improve conservation efforts, support health and wellness and encourage environmental and sustainability literacy at institutions across the country.\u201d\n\nThe Green Ribbon Act includes three major components, supported by $10 million in funding, to enhance the impact of this vital program:\n\nState Grant Program: This would provide grants to state departments of education, empowering them to increase their capacity to engage eligible entities in the pursuit of becoming green school. Further, it ensures that not less than 40% of funds are dedicated to supporting under-resourced schools, ensuring that all communities have an opportunity to participate in this initiative.\n\nExtends Grants to Nonformal Learning Institutions: Extend the program to include awards for nonformal learning institutions (museums, libraries, zoos and aquaria, etc.), with the award program managed by the Institute of Museum and Library Services. Experts estimate that more than 70% of all learning takes place in these nonformal learning settings, underscoring the importance of their inclusion in this program.\n\nGreen Ribbon School Award Program: This would allocate funding to the U.S. Department of Education to provide small, $10,000 honorariums to each winning entity, enabling them to travel to accept the award and/or for use on green school programming. Additionally, funding will support schools operated or funded by the Bureau of Indian Education.\n\nOffice of School Infrastructure and Sustainability: This would establish an office within the U.S. Department of Education, tasked with providing in-house facilities and sustainability expertise across the department's activities. This office will play a pivotal role in the execution of the Green Ribbon Schools program, further elevating its impact.\n\n\u201cAs extreme weather events continue impacting communities across the nation and our students demand leaders take actions to address climate change, the U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon Schools program helps promote sustainability, STEM education, health and wellness, and reduction in environmental impacts across schools and school buildings. Thanks to these efforts, students are being prepared with the skills needed to take part in the green jobs revolution and to build stronger, sustainable economies and more active, engaged, and healthy communities. Over the last several years, the National Education Association (NEA) has been proud of many of our members\u2019 schools that were named Green Ribbon Schools award winners, as educators and students have worked together to make their schools and communities more resilient. That is why NEA applauds Sen. Cory Booker on introducing the Green Ribbon Act, which will allow the Department of Education to continue and expand this important work,\u201d said National Education Association President Becky Pringle.\n\n\u201cIn an era of climate misinformation, Green Ribbon schools are doing the crucial work of advancing climate literacy and building the future generation of young conservationists and climate champions,\u201d said Abby Tinsley, Vice President for Conservation Policy at the National Wildlife Federation. \u201cWe are grateful for Senator Booker\u2019s leadership in expanding the reach of the program so that more young people can benefit from sustainable, healthy schools with expanded environmental learning opportunities.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs students grow up in a changing world and climate, we want them to think critically and give them access to as much knowledge as possible, including exposing them to ideas and skills about climate policy, which impacts and interests them. Public schools are perfectly positioned to provide intentional, experiential learning to help students understand the realities of climate change and engage them in solutions,\u201d said Randi Weingarten, President of American Federation of Teachers. \u201cThe Green Ribbon Schools Act will help strengthen public schools\u2019 and educators\u2019 ability to do just that: provide students with the hands-on experience they need for a future career, college or life in a world grappling with climate change. This bill will expand the successful Green Ribbon program to increase access and provide needed funding to support schools as they engage students through problem-solving, critical-thinking, teamwork and learning by doing so that they\u2019re directly involved in the process of creating sustainable and healthier schools.\u201d\n\n\u201cFor the past 12 years, schools, districts, and universities have committed time and effort to pursuing the Green Ribbon Schools designation by reducing environmental impact, increasing health and wellness, and teaching their students about sustainability,\u201d said Anisa Heming, Director of the Center for Green Schools at the U.S. Green Building Council. \u201cThe Green Ribbon Act recognizes their outstanding efforts and gives this valuable program the resources it needs to expand and succeed.\u201d\n\nThe legislation is endorsed by the following organizations: American Federation of Teachers, Center for Green Schools at the U.S. Green Building Council, Campaign for Environmental Literacy, National Education Association, National Wildlife Federation, Action for the Climate Emergency, American Alliance of Museums, American Association for State and Local History, American Institute of Architects, American Public Gardens Association, Association for the Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education, Association of African American Museums, Association of Science and Technology Centers, Association of Science Museum Directors, Association of Zoos and Aquariums, Captain Planet Foundation, EcoRise, Go Green Initiative, Green Schools National Network, Green Schoolyards America, Hip Hop Caucus, International WELL Building Institute, National Center for Science Education, National Indian Education Association, National Science Teaching Association, New Buildings Institute, North American Association for Environmental Education, Parliament of the World's Religions, SEI (Strategic Energy Innovations), State Education and Environment Roundtable, Sunrise Movement, Sustainable Forestry Initiative/Project Learning Tree, 21st Century School Fund, The Cloud Institute for Sustainability Education, The Wild Center, UndauntedK12, US Partnership for Education for Sustainable Development, Xerces Society for Invertebrate Conservation, Alliance for New Jersey Environmental Education, Association for Environmental and Outdoor Education, Blue Ocean Society for Marine Conservation, Colorado Alliance for Environmental Education, Connecticut Green LEAF, Connecticut Outdoor & Environmental Education Association, Kansas Association for Conservation and Environmental Education, Massachusetts Environmental Education Society, New Hampshire Environmental Educators, Pacific Education Institute, Portland State University Digital City Testbed Center, Rhode Island Environmental Education Association, Squam Lakes Natural Science Center, Ten Strands, White Mountain Nature and Wildlife Center.\n\nThe legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Alex Padilla (D-CA), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Ed Markey (D-MA), and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:37:48Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-delauro-introduce-bicameral-legislation-to-better-protect-americans-from-foodborne-illnesses", "Booker, DeLauro Introduce Bicameral Legislation to Better Protect Americans from Foodborne Illnesses", "2023-09-13", "2023", "2023-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.) introduced the bicameral Expanded Food Safety Investigation Act (EFSIA), legislation that would grant the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) the authority to collect microbial samples from concentrated animal feeding operations (CAFOs) during outbreaks or when there is a public health need. U.S. Representative Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) introduced the bill in the House.\n\nAccording to the CDC, 1 in 6 Americans fall victim to foodborne diseases each year, resulting in 128,000 hospitalizations and 3,000 deaths. The CDC also reports that many of these foodborne illnesses are caused by bacteria and other microbes originating in animal agriculture. Further, over 55 percent of foodborne Salmonella illnesses are attributed to animals and animal products. And the harmful bacteria from animal production facilities can contaminate fields of produce, posing an ongoing threat to consumers. For example, during a 2018 romaine lettuce E. coli outbreak investigation, the FDA traced the strain of outbreak E. coli to an irrigation canal near a concentrated animal feeding operation (CAFO) with 100,000 cattle. The FDA also determined that nearby cattle were likely the source of E. coli outbreaks linked to romaine lettuce in 2019. The extensive use of antibiotics in animal agriculture could also contribute to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, further endangering public health. CAFOs exacerbate these issues with sewage accumulation and runoff, along with a significant volume of antibiotic use.\n\nDespite these dangers posed to public health by the animals in the country\u2019s food system, public health agencies like the FDA and CDC face limitations in their ability to fully investigate and understand the problem since they lack the authority to enter farms and conduct microbial sampling. The animal industry has also impeded investigators from accessing farms during outbreaks which further hinder their efforts to identify the source of outbreaks and develop preventive measures.\n\n\u201cThis bicameral legislation is a necessary step towards addressing the threats posed by foodborne illnesses stemming from animal agriculture and ensuring better transparency in our food system,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cBy empowering our public health agencies to investigate and respond to outbreaks effectively, we can reduce the incidence of foodborne diseases, promote public health, and save lives.\"\n\n\u201cIt is clear that corporate consolidation has negatively impacted the safety of our nation\u2019s food,\u201d said Representative DeLauro. \u201cThis is compounded by a weak and disempowered FDA, which has few tools to hold corporations accountable, investigate outbreaks, and get contaminated food off the market. Under current law, multinational corporations have the power to stop an FDA foodborne illness investigation in its tracks. That cannot stand. That is why I am reintroducing the Expanded Food Safety Investigation Act, which gives FDA the ability to investigate corporate agribusinesses and uphold its mission of protecting public health.\u201d\n\n\u201cThese farms are part of the food system, and they can be a source of illness. They shouldn\u2019t be allowed to slam the barn door shut when public health investigators come looking for answers,\u201d said Sarah Sorscher, Director of Regulatory Affairs at Center for Science in the Public Interest.\n\nThe legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT).\n\nThe legislation is endorsed by the following organizations: Antibiotic Resistance Action Center at The George Washington University?, Center for Food Safety?, Center for Science in the Public Interest?, Consumer Federation of America, Consumer Reports?, Environmental Working Group?, Food Animal Concerns Trust?, Food and Water Watch?, National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition?, Natural Resources Defense Council, and Stop Foodborne Illness.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:37:48Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-joins-colleagues-to-urge-congress-to-fight-child-poverty-expand-the-child-tax-credit", "Booker Joins Colleagues to Urge Congress to Fight Child Poverty, Expand the Child Tax Credit", "2023-09-13", "2023", "2023-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.) joined Senators Michael Bennet (D-CO) and Sherrod Brown (D-OH) and Representatives Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) and Suzan DelBene (D-WA) \u2014 members of a group often referred to as the \u2018CTC Six\u2019 \u2014to hold a press conference to highlight the skyrocketing child poverty rate and urge Congress to restore the expanded, enhanced Child Tax Credit (CTC). Yesterday, the U.S. Census Bureau released its annual Supplemental Poverty Measure revealing that the child poverty rate rose from 5.2 percent to 12.4 percent between 2021 and 2022, an almost 140 percent increase in a single year. Video of Senator Booker\u2019s remarks can be found below.\n\n[CLICK HERE FOR SENATOR BOOKER\u2019S REMARKS]", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:37:48Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-statement-on-appointment-of-tahesha-way-as-lieutenant-governor", "Booker Statement on Appointment of Tahesha Way as Lieutenant Governor", "2023-09-08", "2023", "2023-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "NEWARK, N.J. \u2013 U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.) issued the following statement:\n\n\u201cI celebrate Tahesha Way\u2019s appointment as New Jersey\u2019s lieutenant governor. In Secretary Way, Gov. Murphy has chosen an exceptional leader, someone whose love of our state is manifest in her exemplary record of public service.\n\n\u201cAs New Jersey\u2019s top election official and the first Black person to lead the National Association of Secretaries of State, Secretary Way has worked tirelessly to protect the integrity of our elections and ensure access to the ballot box. She has also been a powerful force in supporting New Jersey\u2019s tourism and leisure industries and building a stronger economy.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m excited to work with Secretary Way in her new role as we serve the people of New Jersey with renewed purpose and dedication in honor of the remarkable life and legacy of the late Lt. Gov. Sheila Oliver.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:37:48Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-menendez-applaud-nomination-of-jamel-semper-to-us-district-court-of-new-jersey", "Booker, Menendez Applaud Nomination of Jamel Semper to U.S. District Court of New Jersey", "2023-09-06", "2023", "2023-09", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senators Cory Booker, a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and Bob Menendez (both D-N.J.) today applauded President Joe Biden\u2019s nomination of Mr. Jamel Semper to the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey to succeed District Judge John Michael Vazquez. Semper has received support from both New Jersey senators throughout the nomination process as a qualified nominee that serves with a sense of justice and empathy.\n\n\u201cJamel Semper is a highly qualified nominee with a distinguished legal career and years of service to New Jersey at the state and federal levels. I\u2019m confident in his ability to preside over cases fairly and impartially. I thank President Biden for nominating Jamel Semper, and I look forward to his hearing before the Judiciary Committee and confirmation by the Senate,\u201d said Senator Booker.\n\n\u201cI am thrilled that President Biden heeded our recommendation to nominate Jamel Semper to an open seat on the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey. He is an extremely well-qualified nominee to ascend to the federal bench \u2014 an alumnus of Rutgers University School of Law, a longtime prosecutor in Union and Essex Counties, and currently the Chief of the Organized Crime and Gang Unit at the New Jersey U.S. Attorney\u2019s Office,\u201d said Senator Menendez. \u201cFor years, Mr. Semper has served the Garden State with fairness and compassion, dedicating his career to keeping New Jerseyans safe. Thanks to his community-focused approach to law enforcement, he enjoys the strong support of major voices and organizations within New Jersey\u2019s diverse communities of color. Should he be confirmed, Mr. Semper would further our collective effort to diversify our federal bench and help ensure that all individuals regardless of their background have access to equal justice under the law. I look forward to supporting Mr. Semper\u2019s confirmation on the Senate floor and urge my colleagues to do the same.\u201d\n\nJamel Semper has been a prosecutor for nearly his entire career, and previously served as Director of the Special Prosecution Unit in the Essex County Prosecutors Office. He began his career in the Violent Crimes Unit at the United States Attorneys and has since held the positions of head of the Newark Violent Crime Unit, Chief of the Organized Crime and Gang Unit, and Chief of the Violent Crime Unit. Jamel is the current Deputy Chief of the Criminal Division at the United States Attorneys\u2019 Office in which he establishes and implements the USAO\u2019s violent crime reduction strategy.\n\nSince 2021, Senators Booker and Menendez have consistently urged President Biden to appoint federal court judges to address New Jersey\u2019s \u201cjudicial emergency\u201d of several longstanding district court vacancies prior to the Biden Administration. If confirmed, Mr. Semper would be the ninth Federal District Judge of New Jersey that President Joe Biden has nominated and the Senate has confirmed, including Julien X. Neals, Zahid Quraishi, Christine O\u2019Hearn, Karen Williams, Georgette Castner, Evelyn Padin, Michael Fabiarz, and Robert Kirsch.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:37:48Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-concludes-2023-jersey-summer-road-trip", "Booker Concludes 2023 Jersey Summer Road Trip", "2023-08-31", "2023", "2023-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "NEWARK, N.J. \u2014 Over seven days, U.S. Senator Cory Booker visited all 21 of New Jersey\u2019s counties, hearing from an array of constituents\u2014educators, veterans, incarcerated people, farmers, firefighters, seniors, small-business owners, and more\u2014as he highlighted his efforts to invest in and expand justice for New Jerseyans.\n\nBooker\u2019s annual summer road trips began when he was first elected to the U.S. Senate 10 years ago and are aimed at discussing the Garden State\u2019s priorities, shine a light on the everyday New Jerseyans serving others, and show the senator\u2019s support for local organizations, businesses, and industries.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m filled with gratitude and Jersey pride as I end my 2023 summer road trip,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cEvery year, I learn more about our state and spend time with extraordinary New Jerseyans\u2014humble heroes in our midst who serve their communities. It\u2019s an honor to represent New Jersey in the U.S. Senate, and my conversations over the past few days will stay with me as I continue to fight for our state in Washington.\u201d\n\nBooker began his road trip at Bergen New Bridge Medical Center in Paramus. He announced legislation to combat the opioid epidemic by expanding access to drug test trips, affordable and effective lifesaving devices that prevent drug overdoses. Days later, he visited the Camden County Jail, a national model in expanding treatment for populations that are disproportionately affected by addiction and mental health issues, to discuss his legislation to provide comprehensive substance abuse treatment to people who are incarcerated.\n\nIn Newark, he hosted the Essex County Community Violence Intervention Summit with New Jersey\u2019s urban mayors to discuss the gun violence epidemic that continues to grip cities across the country and highlight community-based intervention solutions to tackle this crisis. During the summit, Booker announced the introduction of the bicameral Break the Cycle of Violence Act, legislation that would provide federal grants to communities for evidence-based gun violence intervention and prevention programs designed to interrupt cycles of urban gun violence.\n\nAlso on the trip:", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:30:18Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-hosts-community-violence-intervention-summit-announces-bicameral-legislation-to-break-the-cycle-of-gun-violence", "Booker Hosts Community Violence Intervention Summit, Announces Bicameral Legislation to Break the Cycle of Gun Violence", "2023-08-31", "2023", "2023-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "NEWARK, N.J. \u2014 Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.) hosted a Community Violence Intervention Summit with New Jersey\u2019s urban mayors to discuss the gun violence epidemic that continues to grip communities across the country and to highlight community-based intervention solutions to tackle this crisis. During the summit, Senator Booker announced the introduction of the bicameral Break the Cycle of Violence Act, legislation that would provide federal grants to communities for evidence-based gun violence intervention and prevention programs designed to interrupt cycles of gun violence. U.S. Representative Steven Horsford (D-NV), Chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus, introduced the bill in the House of Representatives.\n\nThe Community Violence Intervention Summit was cohosted by the New Jersey Urban Mayors Association at the New Jersey Institute of Technology. The discussion brought together government leaders with leaders from several New Jersey-based CVI organizations that receive federal grants: Newark Community Street Team, Prevention Education, HMH Hospitals Corporation, Acenda, and the Community Based Public Collective.\n\nSeveral urban mayors were present at today\u2019s event, including Mayor Ras Baraka of Newark, President of the New Jersey Urban Mayors Association; Mayor Adrian Mapp of Plainfield; Mayor Ted Green of East Orange; Mayor Reed Gusciora of Trenton; and Mayor Helmin Caba of Perth Amboy. Representatives from member municipalities were also present, including Jersey City, Irvington, Bridgeton, and Orange were also attendance.\n\nResearch has shown that community-oriented intervention programs combined with common-sense gun violence prevention policies can dramatically reduce gun violence rates. In particular, Newark has become national leader in implementing a broad array of strategies to combat gun violence, including community violence intervention programs. These efforts have yielded clear results: in 2022, Newark saw a 32 percent reduction in shootings and gunshot victims, reaching a level that was even lower than pre-pandemic levels.\n\n\u201cWe must take immediate action to address the gun violence epidemic that continues to rip families apart and ravage neighborhoods across in our state and across the country,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cThrough innovative and evidence-based policies, we can curtail gun violence and save countless lives. This bicameral legislation will invest federal resources in community-based violence intervention and prevention programs that are proven to reduce gun violence, so we can confront this crisis head-on and keep our communities safe.\u201d\n\n\u201cIn the City of Newark, we address violent crime as a public health issue,\u201d said Mayor Baraka. \u201cOur strategy is to identify crime \u201chot spots\u201d and to deploy community violence intervention organizations along with our police officers to those areas. We recognize that we cannot arrest our way out of violence, therefore, we work to discover what the community needs are and we strive to meet those needs. We are thankful for Senator Booker\u2019s Break the Cycle of Violence Act as it will deploy much needed resources that are integral to our crime reduction strategy and will help to improve our residents' quality of life and save countless lives.\u201d\n\n\u201cToday, gun violence remains the leading cause of premature death for Black men, as well as the number two cause of premature death for Latino men and Black women. For decades, politicians in Congress have stoked fear about urban crime to divide us, while refusing to invest in real solutions,\u201d said Congressman Horsford, whose father died as a result of gun violence. \u201cWe need to focus on stopping crime before it starts and that is exactly why Senator Booker and I have introduced the Break the Cycle of Violence Act. This money will invest in proven, community-based violence intervention programs to build safer communities, while reducing crime, saving lives and breaking the cycle of violence so many have grown numb to.\u201d\n\nWhile the human cost of gun violence is agonizing, the economic costs for communities and taxpayers is staggering as well. Gun violence costs the United States $557 billion every year\u2014with each American bearing $1,698 of this cost annually. Immediate and long-term medical care makes up $2.8 billion of the total cost, and we spend $11 billion on police and criminal justice responses. In New Jersey, gun violence costs taxpayers $5.3 billion each year, with New Jersey taxpayers bearing $168.9 million of those costs.\n\nFurthermore, while gun violence affects communities in every corner of the United States, racial disparities in gun violence remain particularly acute. Black men, who make up just 7 percent of the U.S. population, account for more than half of all gun homicide victims each year. From 2015 to 2020, Black children and teens were 12 times as likely to be shot to death as their white peers. Hispanic and Native American children and teens were both nearly three times as likely to be shot to death as their white peers.\n\nSeveral studies have shown that the violence prevention and intervention programs that the Break the Cycle of Violence Act would fund have been successful in reducing gun violence in their communities. For example, Richmond, California, invested millions of dollars in violence reduction programs and saw a 70 percent drop in gun homicides between 2007 and 2016. In Massachusetts, gun homicide rates fell by 35 percent from 2010 to 2015 when they implemented public health approaches with its Safe and Successful Youth Initiative, while national rates increased 14 percent within that same period. In Oakland, California, gun homicides and nonfatal shootings have fallen by 50 percent since 2012, as a result of a citywide violence reduction plan known as Oakland Ceasefire.\n\nThe Break the Cycle of Violence Act would provide federal grants to communities that experience 20 or more homicides per year and have a homicide rate at least twice the national average, or communities that demonstrate a unique and compelling need for additional resources to address gun and group-related violence. Each grant awarded would be renewable over eight years and funds will be commensurate with the scope of the proposal and the demonstrated need.\n\nThe grants would be used to implement the following violence reduction initiatives:\n\nHospital-based violence intervention programs (HVIP) that provide intensive counseling, peer support, case management, mediation, and social services to patients recovering from gunshot wounds and other violent injuries. Research has shown that violently injured patients are at high risk of retaliating with violence themselves and being revictimized by violence in the near future. Evaluations of HVIPs have found that patients who received HVIP services were less likely to be convicted of a violent crime and less likely to be subsequently reinjured by violence than patients who did not receive HVIP services.\n\nEvidence-based street outreach programs that treat gun violence as a communicable disease and work to interrupt its transmission among community members. These public health-centered initiatives use street outreach workers to build relationships with high-risk individuals in their communities and connect them with intensive counseling, mediation, peer support, and social services in order to reduce their risk of violence. Evaluations have found that these programs are associated with significant reductions in gun violence, with some sites reporting up to 70 percent reductions in homicides or assaults.\n\nGroup violence intervention strategies, which are a form of problem-oriented policing that provides targeted social services and support to individuals at highest risk for involvement in community violence, and a process for community members to voice a clear demand for the violence to stop. This strategy also communicates that there will be swift accountability for those who continue to perpetrate violence. This approach coordinates law enforcement, service providers, and community engagement efforts to reduce violence among a small, identifiable segment of the population that is responsible for the vast majority of gun violence in most cities.\n\nToday\u2019s announcement of the Break the Cycle of Violence Act at the Community Violence Intervention Summit was part of Booker\u2019s 2023 Jersey Summer Road Trip, a series of stops highlighting New Jersey\u2019s 21 counties. The road trip will focus on Booker\u2019s efforts to secure congressionally directed funding for critical projects in the state; his legislative priorities, including his work to address the opioid epidemic, counter the scourge of gun violence, and serve New Jersey veterans; and his support of local businesses and organizations.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:30:18Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-announces-rural-energy-for-america-program-reap-grants-in-new-jersey", "Booker Announces Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) Grants in New Jersey", "2023-08-30", "2023", "2023-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "NEWARK, N.J. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.), along with USDA Rural Development Deputy Under Secretary Farah Ahmad and New Jersey State Director Jane Asselta, visited Eastern Fresh Growers Inc. in Cumberland County to announce grants awarded to recipients through the Rural Energy for America Program (REAP). More than $3.3 million in funding was awarded to 17 New Jersey rural small business and agricultural producers to make investments in renewable energy and energy efficiency improvements that will lower their energy costs, generate new income, and strengthen the resilience of their operation.\n\n\"Today, I am thrilled to announce the Rural Energy for America Program grants, which will benefit small businesses and farms across Cumberland County and our state,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cThis federal investment from the Inflation Reduction Act will empower rural enterprises to embrace renewable energy solutions and be more energy efficient. This funding will go a long way to not only lower energy costs, but also foster a cleaner, more sustainable future for all our communities.\u201d\n\n\u201cSupporting renewable energy and energy-saving systems helps the people of rural America create thriving, livable communities,\u201d said Farah Ahmad, USDA Deputy Under Secretary of Rural Development. \u201cThese initiatives are critical to the future of our economy, and the grants announced in New Jersey demonstrate how the Inflation Reduction Act lowers energy costs and provides clean, reliable energy that ultimately keeps more income in the hands of businesses and producers.\u201d\n\n\u201cHearing firsthand that the nearly $1 million grant funding will help Eastern Fresh Growers more quickly recoup their investment and offset nearly all their energy costs is important in appreciating the impact of President Biden\u2019s economic agenda to strengthen our economy and invest in rural businesses. New Jersey\u2019s farmers and rural small businesses have several more opportunities to apply for grant funding so they can save on their energy costs too,\u201d said USDA Rural Development New Jersey State Director Jane Asselta.\n\nSenator Booker spoke on the benefits of the Inflation Reduction Act and delivered announcements to attending recipients at Eastern Fresh Growers Inc., which received $958,809 in funding to install a ground mounted solar array that will lower the farm\u2019s energy use by more than 100 percent annually. The farm operates as a wholesale produce sales company which sources produce from their farm and other local farms. Produce is packed at their facility in Cedarville, which employs over 100 personnel. Following the announcements, attendees toured the farm\u2019s facilities and met with employees.\n\nAdditional REAP recipients in New Jersey included:\n\nLinwood Solar, LLC. - $563,734\n\nAchristavest Pier6600, LLC. - $92,120\n\nBurke Brothers, Inc.- $129,120\n\nBurke Chevrolet Buick, GMC Service & Parts - $186,320\n\nJessie Creek Winery, LLC. \u2013 $39,800\n\nKull Auto Sales, Inc. \u2013 $98,590\n\nLeslie C. Rea Farm, Inc. - $31,967\n\nMahalo Diamond Beach, LLC. - $106,400\n\nPineland Recycling, LLC. - $26,000\n\nWindrift Avalon, LLC. - $127,160\n\nFour Seasons Campground, Inc. - $176,000\n\nWysocki Electric, Inc. - $64,000\n\nCotton Cattle Company - $96,000\n\nBeneduce Vineyards, LLC. - $150,400\n\nBousum Neely Partnership - $276,400\n\nMWM Properties Montville, LLC. - $224,000\n\nToday\u2019s announcement of the REAP grants at Eastern Fresh Growers in Cumberland County was part of Booker\u2019s 2023 Jersey Summer Road Trip, a series of stops highlighting New Jersey\u2019s 21 counties. The road trip will focus on Booker\u2019s efforts to secure congressionally directed funding for critical projects in the state; his legislative priorities, including his work to address the opioid epidemic, counter the scourge of gun violence, and serve New Jersey veterans; and his support of local businesses and organizations.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:30:18Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-coons-joint-statement-on-gabon", "Booker, Coons Joint Statement on Gabon", "2023-08-30", "2023", "2023-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-N.J.) and Chris Coons (D-Del.) released the following statement in response to recent developments in Gabon:\n\n\u201cThe apparent seizure of power by Gabon\u2019s military is part of an alarming trend in West and Central Africa of military-backed coups. The Gabonese people \u2013 and people everywhere \u2013 deserve civilian-led, democratic governance. Despite Gabon\u2019s flawed elections, no group of military officers has the right to unilaterally reverse an election, suspend the government, and impose their will upon the people. We call on the Armed Forces of Gabon to release President Bongo from house arrest and return to civilian control. Only then can a just, democratic civilian government be established.\u201d\n\nSenator Booker is a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and Chair of the Subcommittee on Africa and Global Health Policy. Senator Coons is a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and Chair of the Senate State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs (SFOPS) Appropriations Subcommittee.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:30:18Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-hosts-town-hall-in-atlantic-county-to-discuss-veterans-affairs", "Booker Hosts Town Hall in Atlantic County to Discuss Veterans Affairs", "2023-08-29", "2023", "2023-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "NEWARK, N.J. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Under Secretary of Veterans Affairs for Health Dr. Shereef Elnahal hosted a town hall with Atlantic County veterans to listen to their concerns and discuss critical issues that impact them and to highlight the benefits now available to toxic-exposed veterans under the PACT Act.\n\nThe PACT Act is the largest expansion in benefits and care to veterans in decades, providing support to generations of veterans exposed to toxic burn pits and other environmental hazards such as Agent Orange. Since its passage one year ago, over 909,000 disability claims have been filed under the PACT Act, and over 373,000 have already been approved. The VA has completed over 4 million toxic exposure screenings since the PACT Act passed\u2013screenings that will save lives by helping doctors catch toxic-related diseases earlier.\n\nDuring the Town Hall, Senator Booker also discussed his efforts to expand access to community care for veterans in South Jersey, expand mental health resources for veterans to combat the epidemic of veteran suicide, expand eligibility for services to combat veteran homelessness, and to expand gender specific health care for women veterans.\n\n\u201cVeterans are the backbone of this country and have sacrificed immensely to protect our freedoms,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cAs we continue to honor those who have served, we must ensure that all veterans have access to quality, affordable healthcare, including mental health services, housing, job opportunities, and educational benefits.\u201d\n\n\u201cI love veterans because they have made a commitment that nobody else in America has,\u201d said Marco Polo Smigliani, Atlantic County Veterans Advisory Board. \u201cThey are owed greater debt and gratitude than they receive. I appreciate Senator Booker and Under Secretary Elnahal hearing from us today and for working together with us to improve our support to veterans.\u201d\n\nThroughout his time in the Senate, Booker has tirelessly advocated for the nearly 400,000 veterans who call New Jersey home. In 2021, Booker introduced the Vet CENTERS for Mental Health Act, a bicameral bill expanding access to mental health services for veterans and their families. Earlier this summer, he introduced theDOULA Act , which would establish a pilot program to provide doula services to support veterans experiencing pregnancy, and the Women Veterans Appreciation Day resolution with Rep. Mikie Sherrill, which designated June 12, 2023, as Women Veterans Appreciation Day to recognize the service and sacrifices of women veterans who have served valiantly on behalf of the United States. Booker has also introduced the GI Bill NEED Act, which extends the time limitation for using educational assistance under the VA when educational institutions are temporarily or permanently closed due to an emergency situation. This bill was later passed as part of the FY23 Omnibus Appropriations Act.\n\nToday\u2019s visit to Atlantic County was part of Booker\u2019s 2023 Jersey Summer Road Trip, a series of stops highlighting New Jersey\u2019s 21 counties and the incredible progress that the state is making. The road trip will focus on Booker\u2019s efforts to secure congressionally directed funding for critical projects in the state; his legislative priorities, including his work to address the opioid epidemic, counter the scourge of gun violence, and serve New Jersey veterans; and his support of local businesses and organizations.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:30:18Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/in-clayton-booker-announces-715000-in-funding-for-the-boroughs-fire-department", "In Clayton, Booker Announces $715,000 in Funding for the Borough\u2019s Fire Department", "2023-08-29", "2023", "2023-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "NEWARK, N.J. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) visited the Borough of Clayton\u2019s fire department in Gloucester County to announce a $715,000 congressionally directed spending (CDS) award to purchase a new ladder truck. This funding was secured by Senators Booker and Robert Menendez (D-NJ). In addition to the CDS grant announcement, Senator Booker congratulated the Clayton Fire Company for being awarded Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) and Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) grants this year. These are two FEMA grant programs that are designed to provide additional funding assistance to fire departments.\n\nSince 2001, AFG has helped firefighters and other first responders obtain critically needed equipment, protective gear, emergency vehicles, training, and other resources to protect the public and emergency personnel from fire and related hazards. Specifically, New Jersey received $9.9 million in AFG grant funding in 2022; Clayton has received a $946,000.\n\nSAFER is a grant program geared toward assisting fire departments with personnel costs like increasing and maintaining the number of trained, front-line firefighters. New Jersey received $11.6 million in SAFER grant funding in 2022; $69,000.\n\n\u201cThroughout the country and here in New Jersey, fire and emergency medical services departments are experiencing critical staffing and resource shortages\u2014this situation is even more acute for smaller communities like Clayton,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cFederal grant funding from CDS, AFG, and SAFER all provide needed resources for personnel and equipment that helps protect lives and makes communities safer. I\u2019m proud of my work to secure federal funding for Clayton and many other fire departments across New Jersey and will continue fighting for these resources.\u201d\n\n\u201cI\u2019m proud to have worked with Sen. Booker to deliver the funds being announced today to purchase a new firetruck, equipped with a ladder, for the Clayton Volunteer Fire Company that will bolster and support the services provided every day,\u201d said Senator Menendez. \u201cTogether, we fought to ensure this community received federal dollars through the Congressionally Directed Spending process, providing the valiant firemen and firewomen of Clayton the hardware necessary to continue serving their community.\u201d\n\n\u201cThank you to Senator Booker for visiting Clayton and always remembering the needs of small towns like ours,\u201d said Clayton Mayor Tom Bianco. \u201cWe appreciate Senator Booker and Senator Menendez\u2019s support with this CDS award that will greatly benefit our community.\u201d\n\nThroughout his time in the Senate, Senator Booker has fought to secure funding for the state of New Jersey\u2019s fire departments. Earlier this year, Booker provided letters supporting 37 AFG grant applications; FEMA provides awards on a rolling basis, and seven applications have been awarded so far. Additionally, Booker provided 14 letters of support for SAFER grant applications this year. Booker also led a letter from the entire N.J. delegation to FEMA in support of the New Jersey Fire and Emergency Medical Services Institute\u2019s SAFER application to establish a statewide recruitment and retention program for volunteer firefighters.\n\nToday\u2019s visit to the Clayton Fire Company was part of Booker\u2019s 2023 Jersey Summer Road Trip, a series of stops highlighting New Jersey\u2019s 21 counties and the incredible progress that the state is making. The road trip will focus on Booker\u2019s efforts to secure congressionally directed funding for critical projects in the state; his legislative priorities, including his work to address the opioid epidemic, counter the scourge of gun violence, and serve New Jersey veterans; and his support of local businesses and organizations.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:30:18Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-calls-for-renewal-of-childcare-funding-during-visit-to-childcare-center-in-passaic-county", "Booker Calls for Renewal of Childcare Funding During Visit to Childcare Center in Passaic County", "2023-08-28", "2023", "2023-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "NEWARK, N.J. \u2014 Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.) visited the Children\u2019s Day Preschool in Passaic to bring attention to the critical need for renewing federal childcare funding. During his visit, Senator Booker engaged with childcare providers to discuss the upcoming funding cliff that threatens the stability of childcare centers and the well-being of countless families.\n\nBeginning September 30, states are set to face a drastic reduction in federal childcare investment, a \u201cchildcare cliff\u201d that experts warn will have dire consequences\u2014unless Congress takes swift action to renew childcare funding. More than three million children nationwide are projected to lose access to childcare, with an estimated 70,000 childcare programs at risk of closing their doors. This impending crisis threatens to disrupt the lives of families and harm the nation\u2019s economy.\n\n\"The looming childcare cliff threatens the well-being of our children, the livelihoods of working families, and the stability of our communities,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cWe must not allow childcare providers to close their doors and families to lose access to essential services at a time when many Americans are struggling to meet ends meet. This is why I'm committed to fighting for the renewal of childcare funding in Congress so we can support our children and working parents, and ensure our economy can thrive.\"\n\n\u201cChildcare was deemed \u2018essential\u2019 during the pandemic, and it remains that way for every parent relying on care to go to work,\u201d said Cynthia C. Rice, Esq., Senior Policy Analyst at Advocates for Children of NJ. \u201cIts future, however, is in jeopardy as we face a steep drop off in critical federal funding. Inadequate federal support will likely result in child care centers throughout our state closing, which will mean fewer care options for parents. Right now, we are facing the working families\u2019 version of \u2018too big to fail.\u2019 Congress must recognize that child care is a public good that benefits us all and should be treated and funded that way.\u201d\n\nIn July, Senator Booker signed on to a letter urging President Joe Biden to work with Congress and \u201cutilize every possible tool\u201d to provide $16 billion a year to avert a childcare crisis. The letter emphasizes the importance of sustaining the investments made during the COVID-19 pandemic to protect children, families, and the economy.\n\nResearch conducted by The Century Foundation highlights the potential fallout if the childcare cliff is not averted:\n\nOver 3 million children could lose access to childcare nationwide.\n\nApproximately 70,000 childcare programs are at risk of closure.\n\nParents may be forced out of work or to reduce their work hours.\n\nBusinesses could lose valuable employees due to childcare disruptions.\n\nState economies may experience reduced tax revenue and job losses in the childcare sector.\n\nToday\u2019s visit to the Children\u2019s Day Preschool in Passaic was part of Booker\u2019s 2023 Jersey Summer Road Trip, a series of stops highlighting New Jersey\u2019s 21 counties. The road trip will focus on Booker\u2019s efforts to secure congressionally directed funding for critical projects in the state; his legislative priorities, including his work to address the opioid epidemic, counter the scourge of gun violence, and serve New Jersey veterans; and his support of local businesses and organizations.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:30:18Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-sherrill-foster-broad-collaboration-on-economic-opportunities-from-heritage-tourism-in-new-jersey", "Booker, Sherrill Foster Broad Collaboration on Economic Opportunities from Heritage Tourism In New Jersey", "2023-08-28", "2023", "2023-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "NEWARK, N.J. \u2014 U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) and U.S. Representative Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11) today hosted a discussion at Washington\u2019s Headquarters Museum with local, state, and federal officials, historical organizations, and other key stakeholders focused on preparations to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the United States in 2026 and the economic opportunity it poses for New Jersey heritage tourism.\n\n\u201cMorris County and New Jersey played a pivotal role in our nation\u2019s fight for independence,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cI celebrate the efforts to spotlight the Garden State\u2019s unique revolutionary heritage for visitors from around the world. The 250th anniversary of our nation\u2019s founding will be a moment to celebrate New Jersey\u2019s place in history, reflect on our bedrock values of liberty and justice for all, and honor the sacrifices made by generations of Americans to secure our freedom.\u201d\n\n\u201cIn 2026, we as a nation will be coming together to celebrate 250 years of American independence and democracy. Too often the important role New Jersey played in the American Revolution is overlooked and undersold\u2014despite being the site of numerous encampments and pivotal battles led by General Washington. As the 250th anniversary fast approaches, there is great economic opportunity attainable from heritage tourism at sites like the Morristown National Historical Park. I want to thank Senator Booker for joining me today as we received an update on current planning and learned about ways we can advocate for support on the federal level,\u201d said Representative Sherrill.\n\nThe panel discussion included updates from:\n\nCarrie Fellows, Executive Director, Crossroads of the American Revolution\n\nSara Cureton, Executive Director, New Jersey Historical Commission\n\nThomas Ross, Superintendent, Morristown National Historical Park\n\nCraig Schlosser, President & CEO Morris County Economic Development Alliance & MC Tourism Bureau\n\nLocal elected officials who joined included LD-25 Assemblywoman Aura Dunn, Morris County Commissioner Deputy Director Christine Myers and Commissioner Steve Shaw, and Mayors Mark Gyorfy, Mike Stanzilis and Tim Dougherty. Representatives for NJ Senate Minority Leader Tony Bucco, Morris County Sheriff James Gannon, and Mayor Bob Conley also were in attendance.\n\nThe event brought together numerous other state and local organizations including representatives from the Washington Association of NJ, Friends of Jockey Hollow, NJEDA, Morris County Chamber of Commerce, Choose New Jersey, NJ Division of Travel & Tourism, NJ Department of Environmental Protection, NJ Historic Trust, NJ Society of the Cincinnati, NJ Daughters of the American Revolution, National Society of The Colonial Dames of America, Washington-Rochambeau Revolutionary Route Association, Morris Museum, Museum of Early Trades and Crafts, Macculloch Hall Historical Museum, Morris County Heritage Commission, Morris County Historical Society, Morris County League of Municipalities, Morris County Office of Planning & Preservation, Morris County Park Commission, Sankofa Heritage Collective of Morris County, Chatham Historical Society, Chatham Township Historical Society, Madison Historical Society, Picatinny Arsenal, County College of Morris and TCNJ.\n\nWatch a livestream of the discussion here.\n\nAfter the panel, Booker and Sherrill toured Jockey Hollow, where the Continental Army encamped at and survived the coldest winter of the war between 1779-1780.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:30:18Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-visits-camden-county-jail-announces-bipartisan-bicameral-legislation-expanding-access-to-mental-health-and-substance-use-services-for-people-who-are-incarcerated", "Booker Visits Camden County Jail, Announces Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation Expanding Access to Mental Health and Substance Use Services for People Who are Incarcerated", "2023-08-28", "2023", "2023-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "NEWARK, N.J. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) visited the Camden County Jail to discuss the importance of providing comprehensive substance abuse treatment to individuals who are incarcerated. During the discussion with the warden and people who are incarcerated, Senator Booker announced that he will be introducing the bipartisan, bicameral Rehabilitation and Recovery During Incarceration Act, legislation that would break down barriers that prevent individuals who are incarcerated from accessing essential mental health and substance use services. U.S. Representatives Annie Kuster (D-NH) and Don Bacon (R-NE) will introduce the bill in the House.\n\n\"Today, I had the opportunity to engage in an important dialogue at the Camden County Jail to better understand the challenges that people who are incarcerated face when accessing vital mental health and substance abuse services,\" said Senator Booker. \"Failing to provide medical coverage for these treatments for people while incarcerated exacerbates health disparities and heightens their risk of serious illness and injury. Ensuring this access to treatment isn\u2019t just the right thing to do based on our values, but it\u2019s in the best interest of our communities and our public safety\u2014this program is giving people a fighting chance at a successful reentry post-incarceration.That is why I will be introducing this bicameral and bipartisan legislation that would ensure comprehensive coverage for mental health and substance use services throughout the time a person is incarcerated to disrupt the cycle of recidivism and provide them with the help they need. Ensuring that our criminal justice system focuses on rehabilitation will save taxpayer dollars and make our communities safer and stronger.\"\n\n\u201cMental health and substance use disorders are additional obstacles for justice-involved individuals as they leave incarceration and rejoin their communities. That\u2019s why it is so important that we expand access to treatment and recovery resources during incarceration, so people can get the health care they need to recover,\u201d said Representative Annie Kuster (NH-02), founder and co-chair of the Bipartisan Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Task Force. \u201cI am proud to introduce this legislation to allow Medicaid to cover mental health and substance use disorder care for people incarcerated in public institutions. This legislation will lower the financial burden on states and towns and help stop the cycle of recidivism across the country. I encourage my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to support this bill.\u201d\n\n\u201cSubstance abuse is a crisis among the incarcerated,\u201d said Representative Bacon. \u201cInmates who seek treatment for addiction should be able to access resources, which not only improves their quality of life, but leads to decreased recidivism rates, saving lives and resources. I support the Rehabilitation and Recovery for Inmates Act because I understand how devastating drug addiction can be, and believe that no person should suffer from addiction because of lack of resources.\u201d\n\nThe Rehabilitation and Recovery During Incarceration Act would increase access to mental health and substance use services for people who are incarcerated in public institutions. Currently, individuals who are incarcerated are excluded from Medicaid coverage due to the Medicaid Inmate Exclusion Provision.\n\nSpecifically, the legislation would:\n\nCreate a state option for states to allow Medicaid and CHIP to cover mental health and substance use services for eligible individuals who are incarcerated;\n\nProvide an FMAP increase to states who choose this option;\n\nRequire states to reinvest additional funds in technology and data sharing between State Medicaid programs, jails and prisons, and community-based providers and organizations;\n\nAnd mandate a report from the Comptroller General on the impact of the coverage option.\n\nBackground\n\nIn 2018, the Camden County Department of Corrections received a $200,000 grant from the New Jersey Department of Corrections to launch the Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) program to help individuals who are incarcerated with drug and alcohol addiction. The program began by only providing inmates with Naltrexone (also known as vivitrol).\n\nBetween 2019 and 2023, Camden County has received an annual grant of $699,909 to support MAT in their facility totaling $2,799,636.00 over the last 4 years. This annual grant comes from a 2019 announcement from Governor Phil Murphy for a $8 million investment to partner with county jails to provide MAT to people who are incarcerated with opioid addiction while in jail and post release.\n\nIn 2019, the program expanded to include \u201cinitiating\u201d and offering all three federally approved medication options to treat opioid addiction: methadone and buprenorphine, both opioid-based medications, and naltrexone, which blocks opioids from latching on to receptions in the brain. Initiating entails introducing individuals to MAT upon booking in the facility. Prior to this shift, individuals were detoxed from their medication all together. This caused individuals who are incarcerated to have serious withdrawal pain in jail and in some cases, attempt suicide.\n\nThe Camden MAT program screens every person who is incarcerated upon entry for the facility for mental health and substance abuse disorders and aims to get them on medication within 24 to 48 hours. Individuals who are incarcerated who test for addiction-related disorders can choose to participate in the MAT program and will receive treatment inside the jail and will continue to receive treatment at one of many community treatment agencies after release. The Camden jail is the first facility in the state to offer all three opioid addiction medications in their MAT program.\n\nIn 2019, the Camden County jail was selected to participate in a national initiative to expand opioid treatments in jails and to help improve the connections for those released from jail and reentering into the community with a history of opioid misuse. As one of 15 jurisdictions across the country to be selected, the Camden County Department of Corrections participated in the Building Bridges Between Jail and Community-Based Treatment for Opioid Use Disorder program administered by the U.S. Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Assistance, the Institute for Intergovernmental Research and Arnold Ventures. The Camden County jail received $149,795 in 2020 and utilized this funding to partner with Cooper University Hospital to screen individuals receiving MAT in the facility for Presumptive Eligibility to temporarily enroll in Medicaid. Enrolling patients from the jail for Medicaid Presumptive Eligibility at the time of release offers immediate, short-term coverage of health care services while awaiting the processing of a full application.\n\nIn February 2023, the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy announced that it will allow a waiver for Medicaid funds to be used in jails and prisons for mental health and drug treatment. Currently, people who are incarcerated are excluded from Medicaid coverage due to the Medicaid Inmate Exclusion Provision. This leaves states and counties responsible for funding medical treatment for people who are incarcerated who might otherwise qualify for Medicaid. The same month, Rahul Gupta, Director of the Office of National Drug Control Policy, visited the Camden County jail to highlight the White House\u2019s waiver to allow states to apply to use Medicaid to pay for treatment of substance use and mental health in jails and prisons. During the visit, Director Gupta also underscored that the Camden County jail MAT program is a model for the country on how to expand treatment in populations that are disproportionately affected by addiction and mental health issues.\n\nToday\u2019s announcement of the Rehabilitation and Recovery During Incarceration Act at the Camden County Jail was part of Booker\u2019s 2023 Jersey Summer Road Trip, a series of stops highlighting New Jersey\u2019s 21 counties. The road trip will focus on Booker\u2019s efforts to secure congressionally directed funding for critical projects in the state; his legislative priorities, including his work to address the opioid epidemic, counter the scourge of gun violence, and serve New Jersey veterans; and his support of local businesses and organizations.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:30:18Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-visits-hunterdon-county-emergency-services-training-center", "Booker Visits Hunterdon County Emergency Services Training Center", "2023-08-28", "2023", "2023-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "NEWARK, N.J. \u2014 Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.) visited the Hunterdon County Emergency Services Training Center in Annandale, New Jersey. During the visit, Senator Booker toured the facility and highlighted his ongoing efforts to secure federal funding for the training center in order to enhance vital fire safety training for first responders. The facility will also directly improve safety within Hunterdon County by providing back-up countywide 911 services. The funding, pending Congressional passage of the FY24 federal budget, is for $3.192 million and will support the next phase of the Hunterdon County Emergency Services Training Center\u2019s expansion.\n\n\"The Hunterdon County Emergency Services Training Center plays an essential role in equipping our dedicated firefighters and emergency personnel with the skills they need to respond effectively to crises and keep our communities safe,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cI am working to secure vital funding for the Hunterdon County Emergency Services Training Center so we can bolster the capabilities of our first responders and enhance public safety for all residents in Hunterdon County.\"\n\n\u201cWe appreciate Senator Booker taking the time to visit the Hunterdon County Emergency Services Training Center and for his ongoing support for federal funding toward this important public safety project,\u201d said Hunterdon County Commissioner Deputy Director Jeff Kuhl. \u201cHunterdon County\u2019s Emergency Services Training Center provides numerous lifesaving training courses for not only local volunteer fire departments and EMS squads, but also for the surrounding region. Our first responders are deserving of a modern facility that helps to meet today\u2019s training needs and we appreciate Senator Booker coming to see that firsthand.\u201d\n\nToday\u2019s visit to the Hunterdon County Emergency Services Training Center was part of Booker\u2019s 2023 Jersey Summer Road Trip, a series of stops highlighting New Jersey\u2019s 21 counties. The road trip will focus on Booker\u2019s efforts to secure congressionally directed funding for critical projects in the state; his legislative priorities, including his work to address the opioid epidemic, counter the scourge of gun violence, and serve New Jersey veterans; and his support of local businesses and organizations.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:30:18Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/in-somerset-booker-attends-sunday-church-service-at-first-baptist-church-of-lincoln-gardens", "In Somerset, Booker Attends Sunday Church Service at First Baptist Church of Lincoln Gardens", "2023-08-27", "2023", "2023-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "NEWARK, N.J. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.) attended a Sunday Service at the First Baptist Church of Lincoln Gardens. Senator Booker\u2019s video remarks can be found below.\n\n[CLICK HERE TO WATCH SENATOR BOOKER\u2019S REMARKS]\n\nSenator\u2019s remarks begin on the 57th minute of the video\n\nToday\u2019s visit to the First Baptist Church of Lincoln Gardens was part of Booker\u2019s 2023 Jersey Summer Road Trip, a series of stops highlighting New Jersey\u2019s 21 counties. The road trip will focus on Booker\u2019s legislative priorities, including his work to protect civil rights, address the opioid epidemic, counter the scourge of gun violence, and serve New Jersey veterans; his efforts to secure congressionally directed funding for critical projects in the state; and his support of local businesses and organizations.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:30:18Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-joins-jersey-city-pride-for-lgbtq-equality-march", "Booker Joins Jersey City Pride for LGBTQ+ Equality March", "2023-08-26", "2023", "2023-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "NEWARK, N.J. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) joined the LGBTQ+ community and allies for Jersey City Pride\u2019s Equality March. After participating in the march, Booker offered remarks to attendees reaffirming his support for the LGBTQ+ community.\n\n[LINK TO SENATOR BOOKER\u2019S REMARKS]\n\n\u201cIt was a joy to celebrate love today with Jersey City Pride,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cIt has been a privilege to represent our state\u2019s strong and resilient LGBTQ+ community in the United States Senate. I am committed to fighting for justice and equality for all, no matter one\u2019s sexual orientation or who they love, and will continue my advocacy for LGBTQ+ Americans back in the halls of our nation\u2019s capitol to ensure they are protected from discrimination, harassment, and hate.\u201d\n\n\u201cJersey City Pride is more than an event; it\u2019s a movement,\u201d said Eduardo Baez and Joseph Cameron, Co-Producers of the Jersey City LGBTQ+ Pride Festival. \u201cWe celebrate the diversity of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transexual, queer, intersex, and asexual communities and allies of Hudson County and host our event in August to support local businesses at a time when they need much-needed revenue. We thank Senator Booker for joining us today for our Pride Equality March and for his words of support.\u201d\n\nToday\u2019s event was part of Booker\u2019s 2023 Jersey Summer Road Trip, a series of stops highlighting New Jersey\u2019s 21 counties. The road trip will focus on Booker\u2019s legislative priorities, including his work to protect civil rights, address the opioid epidemic, counter the scourge of gun violence, and serve New Jersey veterans; his efforts to secure congressionally directed funding for critical projects in the state; and his support of local businesses and organizations.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:30:18Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-highlights-warren-community-colleges-precision-agriculture-technology-project", "Booker Highlights Warren Community College\u2019s Precision Agriculture Technology Project", "2023-08-25", "2023", "2023-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "NEWARK, N.J. \u2013 U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), a member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, today visited Warren Community College to see its Precision Agriculture Technology Project, an initiative of the college\u2019s Unmanned Systems Program, that addresses agriculture industry needs in the region by improving farm land management. Booker has been an advocate for the project and for the inclusion of nearly $700,000 in federal funding in the draft Senate appropriations bill for Fiscal Year 2024.\n\nWarren Community College first launched its Unmanned Systems Program in 2018. The college is at the forefront of drone industry education, and on Friday, Booker heard from educators and officials about the college\u2019s initiative to equip students to deploy drone technology to improve farm management and sustainability. Warren Community College has invested significantly in a state-of-the-art outdoor flight training center, procured a fleet of more than 75 unmanned aircraft systems, and received numerous authorizations from the Federal Aviation Administration to train operators. Its new initiative seeks to expand the Unmanned Systems Program by launching career pathway options in agriculture, including precision agriculture, which has the potential to transform current farm management practices and increase profitability.\n\n\u201cIncredible work is taking place at Warren Community College, with their program that trains students for high-paying jobs in agriculture,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cI am excited to see the advancement that students and dedicated experts can make for local farmers, to help them save money, increase crop yields, and manage their land more efficiently. I was proud to advocate for this program to receive federal funding, and will fight to ensure that it is funded in a final congressional appropriations bill.\u201d\n\n\u201cWarren County Community College is very fortunate to receive this Congressional Appropriation with the assistance of Senator Booker,\u201d said Dr. William Austin, President of Warren Community College. \u201cThis funding will allow the college to deploy leading-edge drone technology to develop farm management practices that ensure that crops and soil receive precise chemicals and land management to ensure farm profitability, sustainability while lessoning land burdens through diminishing the uses of fertilizer, pesticide, and herbicide mitigations. The project will strengthen environment protection while increasing crop yields, creating more food at less cost to produce, distribute, and for the consumer at the supermarket. With this knowledge and equipment, Warren can have an impact on the drone industry and our national food production methodologies. It is an example of our legislators, the higher education community, and New Jersey farmers working together to advance agricultural production while decreasing the financial and environmental costs for everyone.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis is fabulous news,\u201d said Yvonne Reitemeyer Board of Trustees Chair and former alumni of Warren Community College. \u201cWe are so proud of our precision agriculture/drone program and this funding will go a long way in helping our farmers achieve quality results with their crops. The support of Senator Booker is extremely appreciated.\u201d\n\nPrecision agriculture uses specialized equipment, software, and artificial intelligence to access real-time data about crop, soil, and ambient air conditions, along with other relevant information such as local weather patterns. Sensors in fields measure moisture content as well as soil and air temperature, and robotic drones provide farmers with real-time images of individual plants, all of which is then integrated and processed with other data to yield guidance for immediate and future decisions. This initiative at Warren County Community College will provide students training to access high-paying jobs upon graduation and provide local farmers with more tools for sustainability.\n\nToday\u2019s visit to Warren Community College was part of Booker\u2019s 2023 Jersey Summer Road Trip, a series of stops highlighting New Jersey\u2019s 21 counties and the incredible progress that the state is making. The road trip will focus on Booker\u2019s efforts to secure congressionally directed funding for critical projects in the state; his legislative priorities, including his work to address the opioid epidemic, counter the scourge of gun violence, and serve New Jersey veterans; and his support of local businesses and organizations.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:30:18Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-joins-letter-calling-on-department-of-justice-to-rescind-its-support-for-corecivic-lawsuit", "Booker Joins Letter Calling on Department of Justice to Rescind its Support for CoreCivic Lawsuit", "2023-08-25", "2023", "2023-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker, a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, joined Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), and 9 other members of the New Jersey delegation to send a letter to Attorney General Merrick Garland calling on the Department of Justice to rescind its support for CoreCivic, a private prison company, in its lawsuit against the State of New Jersey to overturn a 2021 law which prohibits state and local entities from entering into agreements with private detention facilities to detain noncitizens.\n\nThe law, AB 5207, was signed by Governor Phil Murphy in August 2021 with the goal of ending the use of private immigration detention facilities in the state. The letter reads in part, \u201cThis legislation answered the call of local communities,concerned citizens, and advocacy groups that promote the interests of New Jerseyans over for-profit prison companies to permanently close the Elizabeth Detention Center (EDC), a facility with a history of poor sanitation, crumbling infrastructure, and complaints of physical and verbal abuse.\u201d\n\n\u201cCoreCivic, in contract with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), has held hundreds of immigrants in poor conditions at EDC despite sustained protests and legal battles calling for a range of interventions, including improved conditions, closure of the facility, and freedom for detainees,\u201d wrote Booker, Watson Coleman, and the group to Attorney General Garland. \u201cBased on reports from detained individuals and legal advocates, inhumane conditions at EDC include a lack of proper air quality, sanitation violations, overcrowding, inadequate medical and mental health care, and incidents of retaliation and abusive treatment by guards and staff. Despite extensive complaints, lawsuits, protests, and calls for action, ICE and CoreCivic are seeking to renew their contract for the sixth time and extend operations at the EDC after the expiration of their current contract on August 31, 2023.\n\n\u201cWe respectfully request that the DOJ rescind its statement of interest in the CoreCivic Lawsuit and stand with the citizens of New Jersey.\u201d\n\nThroughout his time in the Senate, Senator Cory Booker has worked to eliminate the use of privately operated detention centers. Booker is the lead author of the Dignity for Detained Immigrants Act, bicameral legislation that was reintroduced earlier this year with U.S. Representatives Pramila Jayapal (D-WA) and Adam Smith (D-WA) that specifically targets the inhumane conditions of detention centers and protects the civil and human rights of immigrants. Additionally, earlier this year, Senator Booker led 16 of his Senate colleagues in urging President Biden not to reimplement ineffective and inhumane family detention centers.\n\nThe letter was signed by Senator Robert Menendez (D-NJ) and Representatives Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), Donald Payne, Jr. (NJ-10), Robert Menendez Jr. (NJ-8), Bill Pascrell (NJ-09), Frank Pallone (NJ-06), Josh Gottheimer (NJ-05), Andy Kim (NJ-03), and Mikie Sherrill (NJ-11).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:30:18Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/in-elizabeth-booker-highlights-federal-programs-to-improve-air-quality-in-environmental-justice-communities", "In Elizabeth, Booker Highlights Federal Programs to Improve Air Quality in Environmental Justice Communities", "2023-08-25", "2023", "2023-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "NEWARK, N.J. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) visited the City of Elizabeth to highlight two federally funded programs to monitor air quality in Environmental Justice communities through the United States Environmental Protection Agency. The Environmental Justice Small Grants Program and the American Rescue Plan Enhanced Air Quality Monitoring for Communities Grant are funding projects in New Jersey to monitor and enhance air quality in underserved communities and alert residents to take appropriate shelter or precautions in the event of poor air quality. The monitors detect the amount of Particulate Matter 2.5 (PM 2.5), fine inhalable particles that can penetrate the lungs and bloodstream and pose severe risks to human health.\n\nIn 2021, a $75,000 grant was awarded to Groundwork Elizabeth, a local organization,through EPA\u2019s Ports Initiative in partnership with EPA\u2019s Environmental Justice Small Grant program. The funding was used to form a Climate Safe Task Force with youth involvement, host six community meetings, install five air sensors to collect data, form a collaborative partnership with Rutgers to analyze the results, and produce a final report on potential health risks.\n\nBooker has long been a been a leader for environmental justice in Congress. In March of this year, he introduced the Environmental Justice for All Act, legislation that would direct federal policy to achieve environmental justice, health equity, and climate justice for underserved communities. He has also introduced legislation that would invest $100 billion to clean up legacy pollution and would prohibit granting major source air pollution permits in vulnerable communities already suffering harm from high levels of air pollution. As part of his visit to Elizabeth today, Booker hosted a discussion with EPA officials, local stakeholders, and residents benefitting from the air quality monitors.\n\n\u201cFor environmental justice communities like the one I visited in Elizabeth today, poor air quality is a routine occurrence,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cAs people here bear the brunt of the cumulative impacts of air pollution from diesel emissions and, more recently, the Canadian wildfires, these newly installed air quality monitors will be essential to making sure residents can make informed decisions about their health and well-being.\u201d\n\nIn 2022, the Housing Authority of Elizabeth and the City of Elizabeth and the City of Jersey City were selected to receive $500,000 and $465,250 respectively as part of the EPA\u2019s largest investment in community air monitoring programs in the Agency\u2019s history. Federal dollars from the American Rescue Plan and the Inflation Reduction Act are funding 132 projects nationwide through the Enhanced Air Quality Monitoring for Communities Grant. The Housing Authority of Elizabeth will use resources for the installation of additional air quality sensors that will read data from 13 locations and enable the city to take immediate action to ensure environmental wellness in the city.\n\n\u201cThese federal programs to engage communities in air quality monitoring demonstrate the Biden Administration\u2019s ongoing commitment to advance environmental justice in vulnerable communities,\u201d continued Sen. Booker. \u201cClean, safe air is a right for all, and this federal funding\u2014alongside the Administration\u2019s steps to reduce pollution in overburdened communities and transition to a clean-energy economy\u2014is putting Elizabeth on the pathway to making that sentiment a reality.\u201d\n\n\u201cBy being part of the Environmental Justice Small Grant Ports Initiative, Groundwork Elizabeth has laid the crucial foundation for addressing the air pollution and climate risks that our residents deal with every day,\u201d said Congressman Rob Menendez. \u201cWhile I am proud to represent a densely populated urban district with one of the largest ports in the world, it is vital that we continue our efforts to mitigate the risks of air pollution and monitor air quality for our residents. I thank the Biden Administration and our local, state, and federal officials for highlighting the importance of investing in collecting the necessary data to guide us toward reducing emission rates and ensuring the well-being of New Jersey families.\u201d\n\n\"One year ago, the Inflation Reduction Act was signed into law, providing EPA with a historic opportunity to support communities to tackle climate change, improve air quality, and bring about environmental equity,\" said EPA Regional Administrator Lisa F. Garcia. \"Community leaders and the City of Elizabeth have shown leadership, innovation, and collaboration in tackling the public health impacts from air pollution. Today, we celebrate their success and the positive impacts of investing in communities like Elizabeth across America.\"\n\n\u201cWith every data point the air quality monitors collect, we gain a clearer understanding of the air we breathe and its impact on our health and environment,\u201d said Christian Bollwage, Mayor of the City of Elizabeth. \u201cThe well-being of our residents remains our top priority, and these monitors have undoubtedly contributed to a healthier and more sustainable community. These Air Quality monitors have allowed us to make informed decisions, implement effective policies, and collaboratively work towards cleaner skies and a healthier future for all.\u201d\n\n\"Everyone should be able to breathe clean air and our urban communities suffer most because of issues of environmental justice,\u201d said Jonathan Phillips, Executive Director for Groundwork Elizabeth. \u201cFor the past several years, Groundwork Elizabeth, the City of Elizabeth, our local Elizabeth Housing Authority, and many public and private partners have collaborated on an EPA grant called \u2018The Elizabeth Clean Air Project: A Community Collaboration to Reduce Particulate Matter from Port Newark-Elizabeth Marine Terminal.\u2019 Our work with the EPA in measuring air quality, setting community meetings to gain support, and seeking solutions like substituting biofuels for pure diesel is a first step towards developing both short- and long-term benefits. Support from our elected officials like our Mayor and Senator Booker are crucial to moving policies forward that protect our neighborhoods.\"\n\n\u201cThe Housing Authority of the City of Elizabeth (HACE) recognizes the short- and long-term effects of air pollution on our already environmentally overburdened residents,\u201d said William Jones, Executive Director of HACE. \u201cWe need to better understand the origins of air pollution in our communities, develop strategies to decrease this pollution and continuously engage our residents in the process. In partnership with residents, local environmental non-profit Groundwork Elizabeth, and academic partner Rutgers University, HACE is preparing to install a network of air sensors across its properties, engage the community and supply actionable data to work towards policy change.\u201d\n\nToday\u2019s visit to Elizabeth was part of Booker\u2019s 2023 Jersey Summer Road Trip, a series of stops highlighting New Jersey\u2019s 21 counties. The road trip will focus on Booker\u2019s efforts to secure congressionally directed funding for critical projects in the state; his legislative priorities, including his work to address the opioid epidemic, counter the scourge of gun violence, and serve New Jersey veterans; and his support of local businesses and organizations.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:30:18Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/in-paramus-booker-announces-legislation-to-expand-access-to-drug-test-strips-and-combat-opioid-epidemic", "In Paramus, Booker Announces Legislation to Expand Access to Drug Test Strips and Combat Opioid Epidemic", "2023-08-25", "2023", "2023-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "NEWARK, N.J. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) and U.S. Representative Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ-5th) announced the Preventing Overdoses with Test Strips Act,legislation to combat the opioid epidemic by expanding access to drug test strips, affordable and effective lifesaving devices that prevent drug overdoses. The newly announced bill follows Booker\u2019s Expanding Nationwide Access to Test Strips Act, legislation he introduced last month that would decriminalize drug test strips nationwide.\n\nBooker and Gottheimer\u2019s announcement followed a tour of the Substance Use Disorder Treatment Program at the Bergen New Bridge Medical Center, where he spoke with medical professionals about the variety of evidence-based care and medical detox they provide to patients at the facility. He was joined by New Bridge Medical Center President and CEO Deborah Visconi and Bergen County Executive James Tedesco.\n\nMore than 109,000 Americans died to drug overdoses in 2022, surpassing 2021 as the deadliest year on record. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, synthetic opioids, primarily fentanyl, were involved in 67% of these fatalities, and 92% of these deaths were unintentional. In recent years, the United States has also seen a rapid increase in drug overdose deaths involving fentanyl mixed with xylazine\u2014in 2022, about 23% of fentanyl powder and 7% of fentanyl pills contained xylazine. The presence of xylazine is especially pronounced in South Jersey due to its proximity to Philadelphia, where 9 out of 10 samples of lab-tested drugs tested positive for xylazine.\n\nThese statistics, and the stories of Americans lost to the opioid epidemic, serve as a reminder of a harsh reality: Far too often, individuals are unaware that their drugs are laced with substances such as fentanyl and xylazine, and this lack of awareness results in deaths that are entirely preventable.\n\nThe Preventing Overdoses with Test Strips Act amends current federal legislation to ensure that certain grant programs can cover expenses related to the acquisition and usage of test strips that detect the presence of fentanyl, xylazine, and other adulterant substances. Drug test steps, which cost $1 or $2, have emerged as a low-cost tool that can detect the presence of fentanyl and xylazine in various types of drugs and forms. Research has shown that 81% of individuals with access to test strips regularly use them, and those who receive positive results were five times more likely to modify their drug use behavior. Studies have also demonstrated that distributing test strip devices has been linked to a reduction in unintentional overdose incidents.\n\n\u201cFor decades, America has waged a War on Drugs that has been disastrous for the most marginalized people in our nation,\u201d said Sen. Booker. \u201cRepeating the failed drug policies of the past will not solve the opioid crisis that our nation currently faces and will instead only perpetuate problems. A public health crisis requires a public health response, and expanding access to lifesaving test strips, which allow people to check if a pill or drug contains a fatal substance, is essential to reducing the record number of deaths caused by the opioid epidemic.\u201d\n\n\u201cIn recent years, Bergen New Bridge Medical Center has made critical investments to better serve its patients,\u201d continued Sen. Booker. \u201cI was proud to visit the center and discuss its multifaceted approach to treat substance use disorders, which has been critical in helping our state fight the opioid epidemic.\u201d\n\n\u201cAcross Jersey and our nation, the fentanyl epidemic is tearing families and communities apart. We all wish there was a magic bullet to stop addiction and abuse. Unfortunately, it just doesn\u2019t exist. That\u2019s why we all must come together\u2014Democrats and Republicans\u2014to do everything we can to stop the disease of opioid addiction,\u201d said Congressman Josh Gottheimer. \u201cI\u2019m proud to help lead in the House the Preventing Overdoses with Test Strips Act\u2014a commonsense and proven step to protecting the lives of our loved ones.\u201d\n\n\u201cToday was yet another great day for Bergen New Bridge Medical Center, the largest hospital in New Jersey, as we welcomed Senator Cory Booker to witness firsthand a comeback story for the ages and to introduce critical legislation that will combat the ongoing opioid epidemic,\u201d said Bergen County Executive James Tedesco. \u201cI thank Senator Booker for his continued support of the County hospital and for his continued leadership in Washington on behalf of all Bergen County residents.\u201d\n\n\u201cAmerica is struggling with addiction and Americans are dying at alarming rates. This is a public health crisis. We must educate our communities about the danger of fentanyl contamination,\u201d said Deborah Visconi, President and CEO of Bergen New Bridge Medical Center. \u201cPreventing overdoses can only happen through broader access to stigma free treatment, education, and Fentanyl test strips. Bergen New Bridge is uniquely positioned to address the fentanyl crisis and end the heartbreak and devastation so many families have endured from fatal overdoses. But we cannot do this work without continued funding and support, which is why we are appreciative to Senator Booker and the legislation he has put forth and our County Executive and partners for their dedication to working with us to end the opioid epidemic and save countless lives.\u201d\n\nFull text of the Preventing Overdoses with Test Strips Act can be found here.\n\nToday\u2019s legislative announcement and tour of New Bridge Medical Center were part of Booker\u2019s 2023 Jersey Summer Road Trip, a series of stops highlighting New Jersey\u2019s 21 counties. The road trip will focus on Booker\u2019s efforts to secure congressionally directed funding for critical projects in the state; his legislative priorities, including his work to address the opioid epidemic, counter the scourge of gun violence, and serve New Jersey veterans; and his support of local businesses and organizations.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:30:18Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-announces-2023-jersey-summer-road-trip", "Booker Announces 2023 Jersey Summer Road Trip", "2023-08-24", "2023", "2023-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "NEWARK, N.J. \u2013 U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) today announced his 2023 Jersey Summer Road Trip, a series of stops highlighting New Jersey\u2019s 21 counties and his commitment, as he marks 10 years in the U.S. Senate later this year, to fighting \u2013 and delivering \u2013 for the state\u2019s priorities in Washington, D.C. Booker\u2019s road trip will focus on his efforts to secure congressionally directed funding for critical projects; legislative priorities, such as addressing the opioid epidemic, countering the scourge of gun violence, and honoring New Jersey\u2019s veterans; and his support of local businesses and organizations.\n\nThe road trip is scheduled to begin tomorrow, August 25th, with stops in Bergen, Warren, and Union counties before continuing over the weekend and into next week. The final day of Booker\u2019s tour will include an event in Newark on August 31st to discuss community violence intervention strategies with the New Jersey Urban Mayors Association.\n\n\u201cMy summer road trips are among the great joys of this job that New Jersey first elected me to nearly 10 years ago,\u201d said Sen. Booker. \u201cHearing from people across our state fills me with energy and determination to fight every day for justice and opportunity for all New Jerseyans.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:30:18Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-statement-on-the-retirement-of-governor-richard-codey", "Booker Statement on the Retirement of Governor Richard Codey", "2023-08-15", "2023", "2023-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "NEWARK, NJ \u2013 U.S. Senator Cory Booker today released the following statement:\n\n\u201cNew Jersey owes Gov. Codey a huge debt of gratitude for his five decades of service\u2014in the New Jersey Assembly and Senate, and as our state's 53rd Governor. In fighting to make our state stronger, fairer, and more compassionate, he consistently chose action over doubt, courage over despair, empathy over indifference. With his work on mental health, indoor smoking, stem cell research, gun violence, and much more, he leaves behind a legacy that will be felt by New Jerseyans long after he leaves the halls of government. I'm deeply grateful for Gov. Codey for his service and wish him the best in retirement.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:30:18Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-statement-on-passing-of-lieutenant-governor-sheila-y-oliver", "Booker Statement on Passing of Lieutenant Governor Sheila Y. Oliver", "2023-08-01", "2023", "2023-08", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "NEWARK, N.J. \u2013 U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.) issued the following statement:\n\n\u201cI am deeply saddened to hear of the passing of the Honorable Lieutenant Governor Sheila Y. Oliver, a trailblazer and dedicated public servant.\n\n\u201cLt. Governor Oliver\u2019s legacy of service and devotion to the people of New Jersey will never be forgotten. She spent 27 years in public office, where she fought tirelessly for social justice, affordable housing, and economic opportunity for New Jerseyans, and especially for communities too often left out and left without a voice. I was fortunate enough to have benefited from Sheila\u2019s leadership and advocacy throughout my career as Mayor of Newark, where she was born and raised, and again as U.S. Senator. I will miss her and her inspiring leadership and yet her legacy will live on for countless generations to come.\n\n\u201cLt. Governor Oliver made history as the first Black woman to serve as Assembly speaker and the first to win a statewide election in New Jersey. Because of her, young women all across our state know it is possible to reach new heights while also serving others.\n\n\u201cMy heart is heavy, and my condolences and prayers are with Lt. Governor Oliver\u2019s family, friends, and the people of New Jersey as we grieve this immeasurable loss.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:30:18Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-casten-introduce-legislation-banning-inequitable-calculations-of-civil-damages", "Booker, Casten Introduce Legislation Banning Inequitable Calculations of Civil Damages", "2023-07-28", "2023", "2023-07", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) and U.S. Representative Sean Casten (D-IL-6th) introduced the Fair Calculations in Civil Damages Act, legislation that would make our legal system more just and equal by prohibiting the consideration of race, ethnicity, gender, religion, or actual or perceived sexual orientation when calculating damages in civil lawsuits.\n\nConcerning studies and news reports have shown that state and federal courtrooms across the country consider race, ethnicity, and gender when calculating damages. Courts often award women and people of color significantly less than white men even in comparable civil cases. In these instances, a person of color may, for example, be presumed to have less lifetime earning potential than a similarly situated white counterpart, leading to the low and unfair appraisal of damages. The Fair Calculations in Civil Damages Act outlaws discriminatory damage calculations in federal courts and prevents courts from determining that victims in civil cases should be awarded less in damages on the basis of their race, ethnicity, gender, religion, or actual or perceived sexual orientation.\n\n\u201cAlarming studies show that minorities and women are granted lower civil damages than white men in comparable cases,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cThat is an affront to the ideal of \u2018equal justice under the law\u2019 that we strive for in this nation. The Fair Calculations in Civil Damages Act will level the playing field by banning these discriminatory practices, ensuring that victims in civil cases receive fair compensation regardless of their race, ethnicity, gender, or sexual orientation.\u201d\n\n\"It is unacceptable that our courts often award less in damages to women and people of color than white men in comparable civil cases,\u201d said Representative Casten. \"In doing so, our courts are declaring that some Americans' lives are worth less based on lifetime earning potential statistics borne of racism and sexism. I'm proud to join Senator Booker in introducing the Fair Calculations Act to outlaw discriminatory damage calculations in federal courts. This bill takes a major step in ensuring justice and equity in our civil courts.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:18:03Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-heinrich-young-rounds-introduce-bipartisan-bicameral-bill-to-expand-access-to-artificial-intelligence-research", "Booker, Heinrich, Young, Rounds Introduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Bill to Expand Access to Artificial Intelligence Research", "2023-07-28", "2023", "2023-07", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), Founder and Co-Chair of the Senate Artificial Intelligence Caucus, Todd Young (R-IN), and Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Co-Chair of the Senate AI Caucus, introduced the bipartisan Creating Resources for Every American To Experiment with Artificial Intelligence Act of 2023 (CREATE AI Act). The CREATE AI Act establishes the National Artificial Intelligence Research Resource (NAIRR) as a shared national research infrastructure that provides AI researchers and students with greater access to the complex resources, data, and tools needed to develop safe and trustworthy artificial intelligence.\n\nU.S. Representative Anna Eshoo (D-CA), Co-Chair of the House Artificial Intelligence Caucus, introduced the House companion bill, along with Representatives Michael McCaul (R-TX), Don Beyer (D-VA), and Jay Obernolte (R-CA).\n\n\u201cWe have enormous scientific and technical talent distributed across the United States \u2013 academics and innovators who can help us solve some of society\u2019s most pressing problems using artificial intelligence responsibly,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cHowever, the high costs of data and infrastructure are a barrier for many seeking to contribute to AI research and development. The NAIRR will expand access and allow us to tap into our country\u2019s strengths to drive progress in AI that serves the public good and protect against negative outcomes.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe know that AI will be enormously consequential. If we develop and deploy this technology responsibly, it can help us augment our human creativity and make major scientific advances, while also preparing American workers for the jobs of the future. If we don't, it could threaten our national security, intellectual property, and civil rights,\" said Senator Heinrich. \u201cThe bipartisan CREATE AI Act will help us weigh these challenges and unleash American innovation by making the tools to conduct important research on this cutting-edge technology available to the best and brightest minds in our country. It will also help us prepare the future AI workforce, not just for Silicon Valley companies, but for the many industry sectors that will be transformed by AI. By truly democratizing and expanding access to AI systems, we can maintain our nation\u2019s competitive lead while ensuring these rapid advancements are a benefit to our society and country \u2014 not a threat.\u201d\n\n\u201cArtificial intelligence is already integrated into nearly every facet of our lives. Recent major leaps in innovation provide great promise, but also have caused some to highlight potential risks to society. The United States cannot cede leadership in AI development, and we must harness the great potential the technology offers in order to reap its benefits and combat any potential risks. The CREATE AI Act will help us do that by establishing the National AI Research Resource (NAIRR) to democratize AI safety research and serve as a testbed for the development and implementation of innovative AI practices,\u201d said Senator Young.\n\n\"Artificial intelligence has the potential to impact a range of fields, from national security to health care,\u201d said Senator Rounds. \u201cOur bipartisan legislation establishes the National Artificial Intelligence Research Resource (NAIRR), which will provide tools and resources for universities and researchers across the country. Universities in South Dakota are already conducting research and applying AI and other emerging technologies. This legislation will allow these universities to expand their leading role.\u201d\n\n\u201cAI offers incredible possibilities for our country, but access to the high-powered computational tools needed to conduct AI research is limited to only a few large technology companies. By establishing the National Artificial Intelligence Research Resource (NAIRR), my bipartisan CREATE AI Act provides researchers from universities, nonprofits, and government with the powerful tools necessary to develop cutting-edge AI systems that are safe, ethical, transparent, and inclusive. Diversifying and expanding access to AI systems is crucial to maintain American leadership in frontier AI that will bolster our national security, enhance our economic competitiveness, and spur groundbreaking scientific research that benefits the public good,\u201d said Representative Eshoo.\n\nThe CREATE AI Act establishes the NAIRR, which has four primary goals:\n\nSpur innovation and advance the development of safe, reliable, and trustworthy AI research and development.\n\nImprove access to AI resources for researchers and students, including groups typically underrepresented in STEM.\n\nImprove capacity for AI research in the United States.\n\nSupport the testing, benchmarking, and evaluation of AI systems developed and deployed in the United States.\n\nThe NAIRR will offer the following to researchers, educators, and students at higher education institutions, non-profits, and federally funded agencies:\n\nComputational resources, including an open-source software environment and a programming interface providing structured access to AI models.\n\nData, including curated datasets of user interest and an AI data commons.\n\nEducational tools and services, including educational materials, technical training, and user support.\n\nAI testbeds, including a catalog of open AI testbeds and a collaborative project with the National Institute of Standards and Technology.\n\nThe CREATE AI Act has garnered widespread support from key AI community stakeholders, including Microsoft, TechNet, the National Science Foundation (NSF), Information Technology Industry Council (ITI), the National Security Commission on Artificial Intelligence (NSCAI), Anthropic, NewMexico.AI, and SeedAI.\n\n\u201cAI research and innovation are essential to U.S. competitiveness. The National Artificial Intelligence Research Resource (NAIRR) would increase access to computing resources and promote AI innovation and risk mitigation. We thank Senators Heinrich, Young, Booker, and Rounds, as well as Representatives McCaul, Eshoo, Beyer, and Obernolte for advancing NAIRR development through the CREATE AI Act,\u201d said Fred Humphries, Corporate Vice President, U.S. Government Affairs, Microsoft.\n\n\u201cI am grateful to Senators Heinrich and Rounds and Representatives McCaul and Eshoo for introducing the CREATE AI Act of 2023. As artificial intelligence plays a larger role in our economy and national defense, it is imperative that we democratize access to AI resources and cyberinfrastructure throughout the United States to maintain our competitive edge. The NAIRR is a crucial step to achieving this and will ensure that researchers throughout the Nation can participate in the vibrant AI research ecosystem and that AI technological developments benefit society. NSF looks forward to working with our agency partners and Congress to see the NAIRR realized and ensuring long-term U.S. competitiveness in AI for decades to come,\u201d said National Science Foundation (NSF) Director Sethuraman Panchanathan.\n\n\u201cWe commend Senators Heinrich, Young, Booker, and Rounds and Representatives Eshoo, McCaul, Beyer, and Obernolte on introducing the CREATE AI Act of 2023 and urge Congress to fully authorize and fund the National AI Research Resource (NAIRR). The NAIRR is a crucial initiative to sustain U.S. leadership in AI, reap its economic and societal benefits, and foster safer, more trustworthy AI systems. With AI already transforming our lives and creating the potential for enormous benefits, the United States could lose its competitive edge without strategic actions. Recommended initially by NSCAI, the NAIRR is a comprehensive initiative that will help the United States address the challenges and opportunities of AI by creating a national AI research and development infrastructure, training the next generation of AI talent, and promoting the responsible development and use of AI. We strongly support authorizing and funding the NAIRR, as advised by the task force, to fortify U.S. global AI leadership,\u201d said former National Security Commission on Artificial Intelligence Commissioners Dr. Eric Schmidt, Sec. Robert O. Work, Dr. Andrew Moore, Dr. Eric Horvitz, Dr. Jose-Marie Griffiths, and Executive Director Yll Bajraktari.\n\n\u201cNewMexico.ai is dedicated to leveraging AI to tackle meaningful challenges in areas like addiction recovery, animal husbandry, fusion energy, and entertainment. But we lack the computational resources to fully deliver on our mission for current clients. Initiatives like NAIRR are critical for companies like ours. By providing access to advanced computing infrastructure, NAIRR would empower us to develop more capable AI systems that truly meet our clients' needs. For instance, we could build machine learning models that analyze behavioral data to create more effective addiction treatment plans for patients. Or simulate complex protein folding to help farmers raise healthier livestock. As a smaller company, we simply cannot afford the cutting-edge GPU servers and high-speed networking required to train innovative new AI models from scratch. NAIRR would put that power in our hands. This national resource would allow us to hire from a more diverse talent pool too, by removing barriers to entering AI research. Our country's leadership in AI depends on enabling businesses like ours to advance AI for the public good. We want to drive progress in our communities, not just Silicon Valley. By funding and democratizing access to state-of-the-art AI infrastructure, NAIRR will empower the next generation of AI innovation that tackles real-world problems. The ripple effects for our economy and society could be enormous. We urge policymakers to support this vision,\u201dsaid Sabri Sansoy and Fred Leveau of NewMexico.AI.\n\nThe fact sheet on the CREATE AI Act can be found here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:18:03Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-jayapal-barragan-introduce-bicameral-legislation-to-lift-barriers-to-health-care-for-immigrants", "Booker, Jayapal, Barrag\u00e1n Introduce Bicameral Legislation to Lift Barriers to Health Care for Immigrants", "2023-07-28", "2023", "2023-07", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.), along with U.S. Representatives Pramila Jayapal (WA-07) and Nanette Diaz Barrag\u00e1n (CA-44), introduced the bicameral Health Equity and Access under Law (HEAL) for Immigrant Families Act, legislation that removes cruel and unnecessary barriers to health care for immigrants of all statuses. The bill would allow states to include undocumented immigrants in Medicaid and CHIP and remove the 5-year waiting period for Medicare benefits for lawfully-present immigrants.\n\nImmigrants are significantly more likely than U.S. Citizens to be uninsured, leaving them at a higher risk for both adverse health and financial consequences. In 2024, immigrants will account for an estimated 8 percent of the population yet will make up a disproportionate 31 percent of the non-elderly uninsured population. Data shows that uninsured people incur greater health care costs, and that these costs are often ultimately passed down to taxpayers. Insuring more people will result in healthier people and savings for the government and ultimately taxpayers.\n\n\u201cEveryone, regardless of their immigration status, deserves access to comprehensive, quality health care,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cBy creating a more equitable health care system, we can create healthier communities and a stronger, more resilient economy.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe must finally guarantee health care to everyone as a human right \u2014 regardless of immigration status, income, employment, or anything else,\u201d said Representative Jayapal. \u201cAs a proud immigrant who came to this country alone at the age of 16, I know that the HEAL Act is an urgent, necessary, and just first step to eliminating senseless barriers to health care, making our communities healthier, and ensuring all immigrants get the care they need.\u201d\n\n\u201cEvery person deserves healthcare, no matter their immigration status,\u201d said Representative Barrag\u00e1n. \u201cHealthcare is a human right, and we must remove the unnecessary barriers that prevent immigrant families from the medical care they need to live and thrive. The HEAL Act will help reduce racial health inequities and ensure everyone has access to quality healthcare in their communities.\u201d\n\nThe HEAL for Immigrant Families Act provides solutions that will:\n\nRemove unnecessary barriers to health care access for immigrant families;\n\nProvide access to public and affordable health coverage for Deferred Action Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients;\n\nProvide access to Medicare, Medicaid, or the Children\u2019s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) to lawfully present immigrants without a five-year waiting period if they would otherwise qualify for the programs;\n\nAllow undocumented immigrants to purchase health insurance through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace and obtain premium-tax credits and cost-sharing reductions; and\n\nAllow states the option to expand Medicaid and CHIP programs to undocumented immigrants.\n\n\u201cIn the past year we\u2019ve seen people\u2019s freedom to make their own decisions about their bodies and lives come under constant attack. Latinos/xs often bear the brunt of extreme policies that rob us of the tools we need to stay healthy,\u201d said Lupe M. Rodr\u00edguez, Executive Director, National Latina Institute for Reproductive Justice. \u201cIt\u2019s time for real, sustained change. We need the HEAL for Immigrant Families Act to support families and individuals to thrive and live with health, dignity and justice. All of us, regardless of documentation status, should have access to the health care services we need so that we can take care of ourselves and our families. This is one step in the direction to get us there and we celebrate the sponsors of this bill for their courage and leadership.\u201d\n\n\u201cFor too long, restrictive and discriminatory health care and immigration policy in the United States has limited immigrant access to affordable, comprehensive health insurance,\u201d said Isra Pananon Weeks, Interim Executive Director and Chief of Staff, National Asian Pacific American Women\u2019s Forum (NAPAWF). \u201cMany immigrants who lack access to insurance often delay or forgo preventive or primary care. The HEAL for Immigrant Families Act is the bold change we are calling for to create healthier communities and help immigrants get the care they need by removing burdensome and unnecessary restrictions to accessing health insurance, barriers that force immigrants to choose between quality care and prohibitively expensive out-of-pocket costs.\u201d\n\n\u201cNo matter how much money we have, what we look like, or where we were born, all of us should have access to the tools and supports we need to live healthy lives,\u201d said Kica Matos, president of the National Immigration Law Center. \u201cFor too long, many of our community members have been denied affordable health care because of their immigration status. We are grateful to Rep. Jayapal for reintroducing the HEAL Act, which is an important step in remedying this longstanding injustice, and we strongly urge Congress to pass it without delay.\u201d\n\n\u201cEveryone should have access to health care coverage, regardless of their immigration status or where they were born. Barring immigrants and their families from accessing preventative health care or potentially life-saving services harms them, and all of our communities,\u201d said Indivar Dutta-Gupta, president and executive director for The Center for Law and Social Policy (CLASP.) \u201cThe HEAL for Immigrant Families Act is a critical step in ensuring immigrant families have access to the health coverage they need to thrive. CLASP is grateful to Representatives Jayapal and Barrag\u00e1n and Senator Booker for their leadership in addressing the harmful and unfair barriers immigrant families face and getting the country closer to health justice for all,\u201d said Indivar Dutta-Gupta, president and executive director for The Center for Law and Social Policy.\n\n\u201cEvery family should be able to get the health care they need and the peace of mind that comes with that security. For too long, arbitrary policies deny millions of families, especially families of color, access to care through Medicaid and CHIP. The HEAL Act eliminates barriers like the \u201cfive-year bar,\u201d making people with DACA eligible for health coverage, and creating groundbreaking opportunities for states to improve health care access for people who are undocumented. We thank Rep. Jayapal, Rep. Barrag\u00e1n, and Sen. Booker for their leadership, and urge their colleagues in Congress to pass the HEAL Act now,\u201d said Adriana Cadena, Protecting Immigrant Families Campaign Director.\n\nThe legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Ed Markey (D-MA), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Patty Murray (D-WA), and Martin Heinrich (D-NM). In addition to Representatives Jayapal and Barrag\u00e1n, the legislation has 57 other cosponsors in the House: Representatives Alma Adams, Ph.D. (NC-12), Earl Blumenauer (OR-03), Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Jamaal Bowman (NY-16), Cori Bush (MO-01), Andr\u00e9 Carson (IN-07), Troy Carter (LA-02), Kathy Castor (FL-14), Joaquin Castro (TX-20), Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (FL-20), Judy Chu (CA-28), Yvette D. Clarke (NY-09), Emanuel Cleaver, II (MO-05), Gerald E. Connolly (VA-11), J. Luis Correa (CA-46), Jasmine Crockett (TX-30), Lloyd Doggett (TX-35), Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), Sylvia R. Garcia (TX-29), Jes\u00fas \u201cChuy\u201d Garc\u00eda (IL) (IL-04), Jimmy Gomez (CA-34), Ra\u00fal Grijalva (AZ-07), Sheila Jackson Lee (TX-18), Sara Jacobs (CA-51), Henry C. \"Hank\" Johnson, Jr. (GA-04), Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08), Barbara Lee (CA-12), Zoe Lofgren (CA-18), James P. McGovern (MA-02), Grace Meng (NY-06), Gwen Moore (WI-04), Jerry Nadler (NY-12), Grace F. Napolitano (CA-31), Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Chellie Pingree (ME-01), Mark Pocan (WA-02), Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Mike Quigley (IL-05), Delia Ramirez (IL-03), Mary Gay Scanlon (PA-05), Jan Schakowsky (IL-09), Terri A. Sewell (AL-07), Darren Soto (FL-09), Shri Thanedar (MI-13), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Jill Tokuda (HI-02), Norma Torres (CA-35), David Trone (MD-06), Marc Veasey (TX-33), Nydia M. Velazquez (NY-07), Debbie Wasserman Schultz (FL-25), Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), Nikema Williams (GA-05), and Frederica S. Wilson (FL-24).\n\nThe HEAL for Immigrant Families Act is endorsed by All* Above All Action Fund, American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, American Muslim Health Professionals, Amplify Georgia Collaborative, API Chaya, APIAHF, APNA Community Center, Apna Ghar, Inc. , Asian and Pacific Islander Health Forum (APIAHF), Asian Community Development Council, Asian Pacific Institute on Gender-Based Violence, Asian Pacific Partners for Empowerment, Advocacy and Leadership (APPEAL), Asian Texans for Justice, ASISTA Immigration Assistance, Avodah, Bazelon Center for Mental Health Law, Bend the Arc: Jewish Action, Boston Medical Center, California Immigrant Policy Center, Caring Across Generations, Catholics for Choice, Central American Resource Center of Northern CA - CARECEN SF, Champaign County Health Care Consumers, Chinese-American Planning Council (CPC) , Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA), CommonSpirit Health, Community Catalyst, COPAL - Communities Organizing Latinx Power and Action, Daya Inc., East Bay Sanctuary Covenant, El Centro , Empowering Pacific Islander Communities (EPIC), Equality California, Faith Action Network, Families USA , First Focus Campaign for Children, Florida Health Justice Project , Frontera Fund, Futures Without Violence, Grantmakers Concerned with Immigrants & Refugees, Guttmacher Institute, Hawaii Children's Action Network Speaks!, Healthy Teen Network, Houston Immigration Legal Services Collaborative, Ibis Reproductive Health, If/When/How: Lawyering for Reproductive Justice, Immigration Law & Justice Network, In Our Own Voice: National Black Women's Reproductive Justice Agenda, Ipas, Jewish Coalition for Immigrant Justice NW, Justice in Aging, Kids in Need of Defense (KIND), Laotian American National Alliance, Latinas en Poder, Latino Community Fund , Massachusetts Immigrant and Refugee Advocacy Coalition, MLPB, National Asian American Pacific Islander Mental Health Association, National Coalition for Latinxs with Disabilities (CNLD), National Council of Asian Pacific Americans - NCAPA, National Council of Jewish Women , National Disability Rights Network (NDRN), National Family Planning & Reproductive Health Association, National Health Law Program, National Partnership for Women & Families, National Women's Law Center, PIVOT-The Progressive Vietnamese American Organization, Planned Parenthood Federation of America, Protect Our Care, Rabbinical Assembly , Rhia Ventures, SHERo Mississippi , Silver State Equality, South Asian Public Health Association, Southern AIDS Coalition , Texas Equal Access Fund, The AIDS Institute, The Workers Circle, Union for Reform Judaism, UnLocal, URGE: Unite for Reproductive and Gender Equity, Wind of the Spirit Immigrant Resource Center, Women of Reform Judaism, and Young Invincibles.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:18:03Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-statement-on-fy-2024-national-defense-authorization-act", "Booker Statement on FY 2024 National Defense Authorization Act", "2023-07-28", "2023", "2023-07", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "Washington, DC -- Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) issued the following statement:\n\n\u201cI strongly support many elements of the Fiscal Year 2024 National Defense Authorization Act, including provisions that honor our selfless service members with a well-deserved pay raise; improve access to housing, health care, and other resources for our troops and their families; and continue to support our allies in Ukraine fighting to preserve and protect their democracy from Vladimir Putin\u2019s illegal and unjust war.\n\n\u201cAt the same time, there is a better way to support our troops and protect our national security than continuing a pattern of annually increasing the Pentagon\u2019s budget beyond what the Department of Defense requests and without completing a comprehensive audit to reduce existing levels of financial waste and mismanagement. Congress cannot continue to resist strengthening oversight, increasing transparency, and improving accountability at the Pentagon. In addition, I remain concerned about the disconnect between unchecked military spending and the lack of investments in -- and even proposed cuts to -- diplomacy abroad and programs that help the American people here at home. Our constituents deserve robust investments in our schools, health care, and housing.\n\n\u201cFurthermore, it defies common sense that this legislation would limit the Department\u2019s ability to promote greater diversity in its ranks, particularly in senior positions in the military, when our enlisted force is increasingly diverse. Diversity is a source of strength at every level of the military.\n\n\u201cWe must do better in delivering a defense authorization bill that responsibly protects and promotes the United States\u2019 interests and values.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:18:03Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-watson-coleman-omar-reintroduce-bicameral-legislation-to-establish-model-for-federal-jobs-guarantee-program-in-high-unemployment-communities", "Booker, Watson Coleman, Omar Reintroduce Bicameral Legislation to Establish Model for Federal Jobs Guarantee Program in High-Unemployment Communities", "2023-07-28", "2023", "2023-07", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) and U.S. Representatives Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ) and Ilhan Omar (D-MN) reintroduced the bicameral Federal Jobs Guarantee Development Act, legislation that would establish a model federal jobs guarantee program in up to 15 high-unemployment communities and regions across the United States.\n\nThe model federal jobs guarantee program will:\n\nSelect up to 15 sites across the country facing high unemployment based on local need and assets, ensuring that work would advance critical local and national priorities that the private sector under-provides, like child and elder care, infrastructure, and community revitalization;\n\nGuarantee that every adult with residence in a pilot community may participate in a guaranteed job. Jobs will include a minimum wage phasing in to $17/hour, paid family and sick leave, and health coverage like that enjoyed by Members of Congress;\n\nRequire that each pilot community creates a \u201cCommunity Job Bank\u201d website, which will feature high-impact jobs sourced primarily by local communities, as well as Federal agencies, based on their needs and priorities;\n\nExpand the Work Opportunity Tax Credit to incentivize private employers to recruit and hire participants out of the pilot program; and\n\nAuthorize a rigorous evaluation of the program\u2019s implementation and impact across a number of metrics, including unemployment rates, private sector wages, safety net spending, and incarceration rates.\n\n\u201cEvery adult should have access to a job with a living wage, good benefits, and safe working conditions,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cThanks to President Biden, Americans are seeing the highest wage increases in decades and employed at historic levels. However, nearly 15 million American workers remain on the sidelines.A federal job guarantee program will bring more people into the labor force and help address the labor shortages within key sectors that are currently underserved. I am proud to join my colleagues in reintroducing this important legislation that will not only uplift hundreds of thousands of workers and build resilient communities but also advance our local and national priorities that will help our economy thrive.\u201d\n\n\"While the economy has rebounded under the leadership of President Biden, we still have much work to do. We have roads and bridges in disrepair, families that can\u2019t find childcare, and aging and toxic water infrastructure which means there are plenty of jobs available and unfilled. This is not the result of a lack of people willing to do the work, it\u2019s a gap created because localities cannot afford to pay them. The Federal Jobs Guarantee Act creates a pilot program for the communities who need it most, giving good paying jobs to people who have suffered while both wages and opportunities have lagged. The work they\u2019ll do will make tangible improvements in those same communities and reverberate through the national economy,\" said Representative Watson Coleman.\n\n\u201cThanks to President Biden and Democrats in Congress, we are currently experiencing record low unemployment and a growing economy. But many Minnesotans are still struggling with irregular hours, low wages, and rising costs. Every single American should have access to a job\u2014a good job. That\u2019s why I am proud to partner with my colleagues Senator Booker and Representative Watson-Coleman to ensure that everyone will be guaranteed a job, in addition to $17 an hour and paid family and sick leave. These will include jobs repairing our roads and bridges, transitioning to a clean energy economy and retrofitting schools and hospitals. As we confront the ravages of the climate crisis, this is the kind of visionary policy we should be pursuing,\u201d said Representative Omar.\n\n\"Our economy falls far short of creating enough quality jobs for everyone who wants to work. Testing an ambitious community-based jobs guarantee would help us move toward a nation that ensures good jobs for everyone\u2013especially people experiencing discrimination in the labor market, including Black workers and other workers of color, people with disabilities, and caregivers,\u201d said Laura Tatum, Senior Director, Georgetown Center on Poverty and Inequality.\n\nSpecifically, the Federal Jobs Guarantee Development Act would:\n\nAddress structural unemployment and underemployment: Even in today\u2019s economy, with unemployment at 3.6%, more than 8 million Americans are unemployed, marginally attached, or employed part-time for economic reasons. A job guarantee would bring workers off the sidelines and into the labor market, serving demographics and geographies\u2014including young people, African American, and rural communities\u2014that experience higher-than-average unemployment rates and who may be left behind by monetary policy tools.\n\nIntroduce competition to the labor market: In 2021, a minimum wage of $17 would have benefitted 51 million workers\u2014nearly one-third of all workers. However, current low wages are driven in part by labor market concentration, which gives employers the ability to reduce wages for lower- and middle-income workers. The \u201cpublic option\u201d job acts as a de facto floor on private sector wages and benefits; since workers can freely enter the pilot program, employers who pay poverty-level wages and fail to offer competitive benefits will be unable to attract or maintain employees.\n\nAdvance vital local and national priorities: The output of these investments\u2014child- and elder-care, infrastructure, and community revitalization, among others\u2014is valuable and unlikely to be provided at a proper scale by the private markets, particularly in low- and moderate-income communities.\n\nThe bill is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley (D-OR) and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA).\n\nThe legislation is endorsed by the following organizations: The Institute on Race, Power and Political Economy, The New School, Jobs With Justice, The Unity Council, Global Institute for Sustainable Prosperity, and Full Employment Now-Political Action Committee (FEN-PAC).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:18:03Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-introduces-legislation-to-protect-farmland-from-corporate-consolidation", "Booker Introduces Legislation to Protect Farmland from Corporate Consolidation", "2023-07-27", "2023", "2023-07", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) introduced the Farmland for Farmers Act, legislation that would address rising rates of corporate farmland investment by limiting future ownership and leasing by corporate investors to ensure that farmland in the United States stays in the hands of farmers.\n\nFarmland ownership has long been a source of wealth and power in rural America. However, as large corporations continue to gobble up agricultural land as part of their investment strategy, family farmers are forced out of business and rural communities are hollowed out. The number of institutionally owned properties rose three-fold from 2009 to 2022, and the market value of that property increased from less than $2 billion dollars to over $14 billion in the same time period.\n\nThe legislation would address several issues within our agriculture sector:\n\nProtecting Rural Communities: With over 400 million acres of U.S. farmland projected to change hands in the next decade, the bill would take a stand against corporate consolidation that threatens rural communities' autonomy. If farmland continues to fall under corporate control, it could shut down thousands of family farms and small businesses, eliminate opportunities to live in rural communities, and erode essential public and social infrastructure such as schools and hospitals.\n\nCurbing Speculative Investments: The bill would prevent corporations and hedge funds from treating farmland as a speculative investment to mitigate market volatility. Rising farmland prices have created challenges for small and beginning farmers to access land, leading to the unfair advantage of corporate interests over independent family farmers.\n\nBringing Transparency in Land Ownership: Corporations use multi-level subsidiary structures to conceal their investments in farmland. The legislation would bring transparency to land ownership.\n\nStrengthening Federal Land Policies: The bill would address the lack of existing federal oversight, as Wall Street investment in farmland soars and the market becomes more nationalized. Through meaningful reforms, the bill would tackle concerns related to national security, economic competition, domestic food security, and the vitality of farm communities.\n\nEnsuring Fair Allocation of Farm Programs: Federal agricultural programs are a vital safety net for farmers, but today are being misused by corporate investors to reduce the risk of owning American farmland. The bill would ensure that public farm programs can no longer be utilized by corporate investors, and instead prioritize independent farmers who form the backbone of the farm sector.\n\n\"We must protect farmland from becoming an investment strategy for huge corporations and ensure independent family farmers are not locked out of opportunities to thrive,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cThis legislation is a crucial step in safeguarding rural America by ensuring that farmland remains in the hands of family farmers and is easier to acquire for those who dream of farming. For our domestic food security and the strength of our economy, we should prioritize the autonomy of rural communities and end speculative corporate investments that drive small farms out of business.\u201d\n\n\"The best means of caring for the land, protecting the environment and promoting vibrant rural communities is to put policies in place that keep more farmers on the land and provide pathways that give young farmers and under-served groups access to land. The commodification of farmland by corporate investors undercuts these goals, driving consolidation in the food system. We need landowners who are farmers and a part of their community, not corporate landowners who see farmland as nothing more than an investment. Senator Booker's Farmland for Farmers Act is a groundbreaking federal policy that will keep farmland in the hands of those who work and love the land. We call on our Congressional leaders to support this effort in the 2023 Farm Bill,\u201d said Jim Goodman, National Family Farm Coalition Board President.\n\n\u201cThe United States is in the midst of a historic transition of agricultural land\u2014nearly half of farmland will change hands over the next two decades. At the same time, land access is the number one challenge the next generation of farmers face. Speculative investment in land is directly and negatively impacting the ability of young and Black, Indigenous, and other people of color (BIPOC) farmers to compete in agricultural real estate markets to gain the security they need,\" said Holly Rippon-Butler, Land Policy Director with the National Young Farmers Coalition. \"The Farmland for Farmers Act is a thoughtful and necessary policy response to this trend. At Young Farmers, we are committed to ensuring a just agricultural future for a new generation of working farmers. We believe that public policy has shaped land use and our food system and policies like this one are part of the bold, systemic change required to tackle its interconnected challenges.\"\n\n\"We, as Northeast Organic Farming Association of New Jersey (NOFA NJ) applaud and support Senator Booker's Farmland for Farmers Act of 2023. We believe the Act will give further legal basis and footing to update and strengthen existing state statutes, laws and reporting on corporate and foreign ownership and encourage more states to adopt laws. Protecting community family farm ownership of farmland is paramount for all the diverse types of next generation farmers whether from a family farm or setting out on their own quest,\" said Cali Alexander, NOFA NJ Board Policy Chair.\n\n\u201cConcentrated land ownership is one of the root causes of inequality in rural communities and beyond, and growing financial investments in farmland will only make this issue worse. Restricting corporate and investor control over farmland is essential to creating a democratic, and community-controlled food system,\u201d said Barry Lynn, Executive Director, Open Markets Institute.\n\nSpecifically, the Farmland for Farmers Act would:\n\nRestrict corporations, multilayered subsidiaries, pension funds and investment funds from purchasing or leasing agricultural land. These types of corporations would be allowed to continue owning farmland they already own, but these corporate owners would not have future access to USDA and Farm Credit System programs and benefits, which should not be used to underwrite speculative corporate farmland investments.\n\nNot apply to corporations with 25 or fewer shareholders, partners, members, or beneficial owners who are all actively engaged in farming; non-profit corporations; farmer cooperatives; or to farmland owned by a legal entity formed by owners of heirs\u2019 property.\n\nStrengthen State authority to regulate corporations, both domestic and foreign, involved in farmland ownership.\n\nAuthorize imposition of penalties on corporate entities that violate ownership restrictions.\n\nThe legislation is endorsed by the following organizations: Action Aid USA, American Grassfed Association, American Sustainable Business Network, Campaign for Family Farms and the Environment, Dakota Resource Council, Farm Action Fund, Farm Aid, Farm and Ranch Freedom Alliance, Food & Water Watch, HEAL Food Alliance, Institute for Agriculture and Trade Policy, Iowa Citizens for Community Improvement, Land Loss Prevention Project, Missouri Rural Crisis Center, National Family Farm Coalition, National Young Farmers Coalition, Nebraska Communities United, Northeast Organic Farming Association - New Jersey, Open Markets Institute, Pennsylvania Farmers Union, R-CALF USA (Ranchers-Cattlemen Action Legal Fund United Stockgrowers of America), Rural Advancement Foundation International\u2013USA, Socially Responsible Agriculture Project, Western Organization of Resource Councils, Wisconsin Farmers Union.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:18:03Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-rubio-kim-castor-joyce-kelly-reintroduce-bipartisan-bicameral-legislation-to-reduce-us-stillbirth-rate", "Booker, Rubio, Kim, Castor, Joyce, Kelly Reintroduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Reduce U.S. Stillbirth Rate", "2023-07-27", "2023", "2023-07", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Marco Rubio (R-FL) reintroduced the bipartisan, bicameral Stillbirth Health Improvement and Education (SHINE) for Autumn Act, legislation that would reduce the alarmingly high U.S. stillbirth rate. Named after Autumn Joy, a New Jersey baby who was stillborn in 2011, the bill would provide critical resources to states, local public health departments, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and other related federal agencies to improve data collection and increase education and awareness of stillbirth in the United States. U.S. Representatives Young Kim (CA-40), Kathy Castor (FL-14), Dave Joyce (OH-14), and Robin Kelly (IL-02) introduced the House version of the bill.\n\nDespite medical innovations, 21,000 babies are stillborn every year in the United States\u2014that is 57 babies dying every day. There are also longstanding disparities in stillbirth rates among racial and ethnic groups, with Black families experiencing stillbirth at more than two times the rate of their white counterparts. Nearly 1 in 4 stillbirths are potentially preventable.\n\n\u201cIt is unacceptable that despite being the wealthiest country in the world, the United States continues to see high stillbirth rates, resulting in thousands of families grappling with the unthinkable,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cWe must do more to address this crisis by raising awareness and ensuring our health care providers have the resources they need to address preventable deaths. This bipartisan legislation is an important step to improve data collection on stillbirth and enhance research, training, and awareness to help put an end to this crisis.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe U.S. stillbirth rate is unacceptable and must be addressed. Losing a child is an unimaginable tragedy, and we should use all resources available to prevent this devastating loss of life. I am proud toreintroducethisbipartisan legislation that would employ resources to significantly lower the number of stillborn babies in the United States,\u201d said Senator Rubio.\n\n\u201cAs a mom and grandma, I experienced the hardships of pregnancy firsthand and recently grieved with one of my daughters through the pain of losing a baby. Helping moms, moms-to-be, and their babies is personal to me,\u201d said Representative Young Kim, co-chair of the Maternity Care Caucus. \u201cEach pregnancy faces unique challenges, and at least 1 in every 4 stillbirths is preventable. The SHINE for Autumn Act will help us gain the research, resources, and education needed to prevent stillbirths, support our health workforce, and help women have healthy pregnancies. I am proud to lead this commonsense bill that will positively impact moms and families, and I\u2019ll keep fighting for maternal health care solutions as co-chair of the Maternity Care Caucus.\u201d\n\n\u201cTogether we can address the serious maternal and infant health crisis that is tearing families apart and causing significant pain and trauma,\u201d said Representative Kathy Castor. \u201cLong-standing disparities among racial and ethnic groups persist, with Black women more than twice as likely to experience stillbirth as White women. With nearly one out of every four stillbirths estimated to be preventable, we need real change that will lead to measurable improvements in outcomes for mothers and babies. I\u2019m thankful to my bipartisan colleagues, Reps. Kim, Kelly, and Joyce for joining me in reintroducing the SHINE for Autumn Act - legislation I\u2019ve fought to pass for years to reduce the stillbirths in America.\u201d\n\n\u201cOhio has one of the country\u2019s highest stillbirth rates, outpacing the national average and failing to show meaningful signs of improvement,\u201d said Representative Dave Joyce. \u201cWe must leverage federal resources to prevent this continued avoidable loss of life. The SHINE for Autumn Act takes a critical step in stillbirth prevention by funding enhanced research, training, and awareness of this issue and arming healthcare providers with the tools to help prevent it. I am proud to lead this effort with Congresswoman Kim and my colleagues to save lives in our communities.\u201d\n\n\u201cStillbirth is a deeply painful experience for mothers and families. We owe it to our constituents to find solutions that will mitigate the risk of stillbirth and support mothers who have suffered from such a loss,\u201d said Representative Robin Kelly, co-chair of the Maternity Care Caucus. \u201cI am proud join Rep. Young Kim as co-chairs of the Maternity Care Caucus to identify bipartisan solutions to a challenge that too many families face. Every mother deserves a health pregnancy and happy life with her baby. I\u2019m committed to ending the maternal health crisis and getting mothers and babies the care they need.\u201d\n\n\u201cJuly 8th marked 12 years since Autumn was born silently into this world and life as I knew it was changed forever. I\u2019ve spent every day since working tirelessly to give a voice to her and the hundreds of thousands of babies that have been born still since. And here we are, on this momentous day, during Autumn\u2019s birthday month, reintroducing the SHINE for Autumn Act into the 118th Congress. I could not be more grateful for all the bipartisan stillbirth champions who have made today possible. The time is now to bring stillbirth out of the shadows, once and for all, with the SHINE for Autumn Act,\u201d said Debbie Haine Vijayvergiya, mother to Autumn Joy for whom the bill is named and founder of the 2 Degrees Foundation.\n\n\u201cEvery year, about 21,000 babies are stillborn and studies show that 25 percent of deaths are preventable. What\u2019s more, the mothers of those babies face a greater likelihood of depression and other severe morbidities or death. The SHINE for Autumn Act is the first step in ending preventable stillbirth through enhanced data collection, analysis, reporting, and research. The bill will go a long way to ensuring that we better understand stillbirth and help us save the lives of more babies,\u201d said Stacey Y. Brayboy, Senior Vice President, Public Policy and Government Affairs of March of Dimes.\n\nSpecifically, the legislation would authorize:\n\nGrants to states to support data collection, assessment, and reporting on stillbirth and stillbirth risk factors.\n\nThe Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), in coordination with health care providers, to develop guidelines and educational materials for state departments of health and statistics on stillbirth data collection, data sharing, and educational materials on stillbirth.\n\nThe incorporation of Perinatal Pathology Fellowship Program at the NIH to fund research fellowships on stillbirth, including research and training on fetal autopsies and improved education, research, and data collection.\n\nA report on the effectiveness of the Perinatal Pathology Fellowship Program after five years of enactment.\n\nThe bill is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Steve Daines (R-MT), Bob Casey (D-PA), and Dan Sullivan (R-AK).\n\nThe list of endorsing organizations can be found here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:18:03Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-statement-on-niger", "Booker Statement on Niger", "2023-07-27", "2023", "2023-07", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. - Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and chair of the Foreign Relations Subcommittee on Africa and Global Health Policy, issued the following statement:\n\n\u201cI condemn in the strongest terms efforts by military forces in Niger to overthrow the country\u2019s democratically elected president. This forceful subversion of Niger\u2019s constitutional order is an affront to the will of the Nigerien people, democratic principles, and the rule of law, and brazenly threatens peace and stability in Niger and the Sahel Region. President Mohamed Bazoum must be immediately released and democratic governance immediately restored.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:18:03Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-murkowski-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-provide-pregnant-veterans-access-to-doula-services", "Booker, Murkowski Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Provide Pregnant Veterans Access to Doula Services", "2023-07-26", "2023", "2023-07", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) introduced the Delivering Optimally Urgent Labor Access for Veterans Affairs Act of 2023 (DOULA Act), legislation that would establish a pilot program to provide doula services to support veterans experiencing pregnancy.\n\nAccording to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. maternal mortality rate increased significantly from 17.4 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2018 to 20.1 deaths per 100,000 live births in 2019. Studies show that veterans who experience pregnancy encounter additional challenges. A 2010 report found that pregnant veterans returning from Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom were twice as likely to have a diagnosis of depression, anxiety, posttraumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, or schizophrenia.\n\nProviding expectant mothers with doulas has been shown to lead to better birth outcomes. Doulas are support providers, trained to provide physical, emotional, and informational support for women throughout the pregnancy and postpartum period.\n\n\u201cAs the number of veterans who rely on maternity services from the VA continues to increase, it\u2019s important that we provide our former servicemembers with the support they need during their pregnancy,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cBy integrating doula support services into the VA, this bipartisan legislation will improve health outcomes for pregnant veterans and their children.\u201d\n\n\u201cI\u2019m proud to join Senator Booker in supporting pregnant veterans by expanding access to doula support services. This effort takes a holistic approach to improving maternal health among our veterans. By ensuring that pregnant veterans have access to doulas, we are ultimately supporting women and families who served our country,\u201d said Senator Murkowski.\n\n\u201cThe DOULA for VA ACT is essential for women veterans,\u201d said Lucy Del Gaudio, US Army Veteran, NJ SOS Veterans Stakeholders Board Member. \u201cThe importance of this act would bring an enormous health benefit to millions.\u201d\n\nUnder the pilot program, eligible veterans would receive up to 10 care sessions from a doula who would also be trained on military sexual trauma and posttraumatic stress disorder. The legislation would also establish Doula Service Coordinators at each participating medical facility who would also work closely with each facility\u2019s women\u2019s program manager.\n\nThe legislation seeks to improve:\n\nMaternal, mental health, and infant care outcomes.\n\nIntegration of doula support services into the Department\u2019s Whole Health Model.\n\nThe experience of women receiving maternity care from the Department, including by increasing the women\u2019s ability to develop and follow their own birthing plans.\n\nReengagement between veterans and the Department after giving birth.\n\nThe DOULA Act was borne out of conversations Senator Booker had with female veterans at a roundtable he hosted on Veterans Day in 2018.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:18:03Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-warren-nadler-correa-reintroduce-bicameral-bill-to-crack-down-on-collusive-no-poach-agreements", "Booker, Warren, Nadler, Correa Reintroduce Bicameral Bill to Crack Down on Collusive \"No Poach\" Agreements\"", "2023-07-26", "2023", "2023-07", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), along with U.S. Representatives Jerrold Nadler (D-NY) and Lou Correa (D-CA), reintroduced the bicameral End Employer Collusion Act, legislation that would crack down on collusive \"no-poach\" agreements that are often used by large franchisors to prohibit franchisees from hiring each other\u2019s workers.\n\nWhen two or more employers agree not to hire each other\u2019s current or former employees they engage in a no-poach agreement. Oftentimes employees are not even made aware of these agreements that deprive workers of competitive wages and benefits. Economists at Princeton University argue that no-poach agreements are chiefly intended to limit competition and turnover, suppressing wages. In 2022, the US Treasury Department published a study revealing that US workers are paid 20% less than they would be in a fully competitive market.\n\n\u201cBusinesses shouldn\u2019t be allowed to collude to suppress workers\u2019 wages,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cCorporations already employ a variety of anti-competitive practices and no-poach agreements, often kept hidden from employees, are particularly predatory and serve to keep wages down and limit job opportunities. It\u2019s time to ban these harmful agreements and protect the rights of all workers.\u201d\n\n\u201cThese illegal \u2018no-poaching\u2019 agreements give big corporations the power to limit workers\u2019 mobility, job opportunities, and wage growth,\u201d said Senator Warren. \u201cI\u2019m glad to join Senator Booker once again to introduce the End Employer Collusion Act to eliminate these anti-worker, anti-market clauses.\u201d\n\n\u201cOver the past several decades, waves of consolidation throughout the economy have imperiled the financial security of American workers. As a result, employers have immense power to restrict the wages and mobility of workers, and to justify anticompetitive mergers under the guise of corporate restructuring\u2014which we all know means layoffs and unemployment,\u201d said Representative Nadler (D-NY), Ranking Member of the House Judiciary Committee. \u201cAlthough the Federal Trade Commission is considering efforts to end anticompetitive employment practices like non-compete agreements, more is still needed to help workers. I am proud to join Senators Booker and Warren in reintroducing the End Employer Collusion Act, which will ban agreements employers make with each other promising not to \u201cpoach\u201d each other\u2019s workers. These collusive, no-poach agreements drive down wages and prevent workers from moving to better job opportunities.\u201d\n\n\"No-poach agreements are unfair, unjust, and un-American,\" said Ranking Member Correa, the top Democrat on the House Administrative State, Regulatory Reform, and Antitrust Subcommittee. \"These agreements deprive workers of competitive wages and benefits. I\u2019m joining my colleagues today in reintroducing the End Employer Collusion Act to ensure that big businesses aren't allowed to collude to suppress workers\u2019 wages.\"\n\n\u201cAn economy that doesn't allow workers to seek better pay and working conditions is not a fair economy,\" said Lee Hepner, Legal Counsel at American Economic Liberties Project. \"When employers agree not to hire each other's employees, they are effectively agreeing to rig wages at artificially low levels. One of the most direct actions Congress can take to empower workers and spur wage growth is to ban these anticompetitive no-poach agreements and other restrictions on worker mobility. This bill does exactly that.\"\n\nNo-poach agreements have recently been challenged in several courts on the grounds that they violate section 1 of the Sherman Antitrust Act. No-poach agreements are common in the franchise industry and prevent employees from leaving one employer for another within the same franchise, impacting employees who seek additional hours or higher wages but are limited by employment opportunities.\n\nSpecifically, the End Employer Collusion Act would:\n\nBan \u201cno-poach\u201d agreements that are often used by large franchisors to prohibit franchisees from hiring each other\u2019s workers.\n\nProhibit any agreements between employers that directly restrict the current or future employment of any employees.\n\nPrevent companies from using, threatening, or enforcing these kinds of restrictive employment contracts.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:18:03Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-welch-introduce-legislation-to-expand-access-to-test-strips-prevent-drug-overdoses-and-deaths", "Booker, Welch Introduce Legislation to Expand Access to Test Strips, Prevent Drug Overdoses and Deaths", "2023-07-25", "2023", "2023-07", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Peter Welch (D-VT) introduced the Expanding Nationwide Access to Test Strips Act, legislation that would expand access to and decriminalize drug test strips nationwide in order to prevent drug overdoses and deaths. The legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Hirono, Blumenthal, Ossoff, Feinstein, Padilla, Whitehouse, and Markey.\n\nAccording to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 109,000 Americans died from a drug-related overdose in 2022, with 67% of those deaths caused by synthetic opioids like fentanyl. Additionally, 92% of the deaths were unintentional, and many victims were unaware that their drugs were laced with these dangerous substances.\n\nOne of the ways to reduce this staggeringly high number of deaths is to encourage the use of drug test strips that can detect the presence of fentanyl, xylazine, and other adulterants in various types of drugs and forms. The possession of drug test strips is already legal under federal law, and there has been a surge of support to decriminalize fentanyl test strips, with 16 states legalizing these strips as of January of this year. However, several states still criminalize test strips as drug paraphernalia, thereby limiting their access. Additionally, only a few states have been able to keep up with the emergence of new drugs and decriminalize test strips for these substances.\n\n\u201cDrug test strips have been proven to be an effective and affordable way to prevent drug overdoses and, in some cases, help reduce drug usage overall. We should encourage their use to prevent accidental overdoses and deaths,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cAs new drugs surface, it\u2019s essential that we get ahead of the crisis and expand access to test strips. This legislation takes a critical next step in tackling the opioid crisis and will help save lives.\u201d\n\n\u201cVermonters know that harm reduction tools play a critical role in preventing accidental drug overdose,\u201d said Senator Welch. \u201cHowever, in many parts of this country, test strips are classified as drug paraphernalia which limits access to this important tool. States across the country have decriminalized fentanyl test strips, but as xylazine and other deadly drugs emerge in popularity, the federal government has an important role to play in ensuring nationwide access to test strips. I\u2019m proud to join Sen. Booker to lead this legislation to help prevent accidental overdose.\u201d\n\n\u201cMany families impacted by addiction come to us for information about how to encourage their loved one to use safety measures, such as test strips, to reduce their risk for overdose and death. Test strips are an important component of a comprehensive public health approach to address the overdose crisis and we support efforts to increase access,\u201d said Lindsey Vuolo, Vice President, Health Law and Policy, Partnership to End Addiction.\n\n\u201cThe National Harm Reduction Coalition is pleased to support the Ensuring Access to Test Strips Act, rooted in evidence-based harm reduction principles. The bill will standardize the patchwork of state laws regulating this inexpensive life-saving tool and has a real potential to reduce overdose deaths. In contrast to other pending federal bills based on failed \u201cWar on Drugs\u201d reasoning, this bill does not rely on the criminal law which disproportionately polices, convicts and incarcerates people of color. We thank Senators Booker and Welch for leading on this issue and supporting harm reduction approaches that are demonstrated effective and cost-saving rather than scheduling and criminalization, which are racially unjust and lack any evidence base or cost control,\u201d said Mary Sylla, JD, MPH, Director of Overdose Prevention Policy & Strategy.\n\nSpecifically, the Ensuring Nationwide Access to Test Strips Act would:\n\nAllow an individual to obtain, possess, provide, or use test strips designed to detect the presence of fentanyl, xylazine, or other adulterants in drug samples in all states.\n\nEnsure an individual is not subject to criminal prosecution solely for obtaining, possessing, providing, or using test strips.\n\nOrganizations endorsing the Expanding Nationwide Access to Test Strips Act include: National Harm Reduction Coalition, Partnership to End Addiction, American Association of Psychiatric Pharmacists, American College of Emergency Physicians, Drug Policy Alliance, People\u2019s Action, Illinois Harm Reduction & Recovery Coalition, Students for a Sensible Drug Policy, Dream.org, Vera Institute, and The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists. The bill is also endorsed by a coalition of over 50 medical and public health professionals across the country.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:18:03Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-cardenas-kamlager-dove-reintroduce-bicameral-juvenile-justice-legislative-package", "Booker, C\u00e1rdenas, Kamlager-Dove Reintroduce Bicameral Juvenile Justice Legislative Package", "2023-07-24", "2023", "2023-07", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) and U.S. Representatives Tony C\u00e1rdenas (D-CA) and Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-CA) reintroduced the bicameral Second Chance for Justice Package, bills that would reform the United States\u2019 criminal and juvenile justice system.\n\nStudies have proven that locking up children does not reduce crime or the rate of juvenile recidivism - it has the opposite effect. While incarcerated, children often receive with inadequate education instruction, limited access to health care, and insufficient counseling services. This puts them at greater risk of maltreatment, physical and psychological abuse, sexual assault, and suicide. Kids in the juvenile justice systems are disproportionately identified as having special needs and are disproportionately low-income, LGBTQ+, Black and Latino. Many of these children have no knowledge of their rights, no means to contact a lawyer, and lack the financial resources to afford legal fees.\n\n\u201cThe past few decades have made one thing clear: our juvenile justice system is broken and in need of serious reform,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cInstead of equipping youth with the tools to succeed, our system too often traps young people, disproportionally Black and Brown, into never-ending cycles of debt and punishment. This not only squanders public resources but also undermines public safety. This package of bills takes a different approach by providing crucial, community-based supports to young people that have been proven to work. These bills bring our nation closer to a future where young people \u2013 regardless of their race, gender, or neighborhood \u2013 can realize their full potential, even when they have made mistakes.\u201d\n\n\u201cI saw lives ruined by our broken criminal and juvenile justice system growing up in Pacoima,\u201d said Representative C\u00e1rdenas. \u201cKids in my neighborhood were in a perpetual cycle of incarceration, and the system didn\u2019t just harm them \u2013 it also took a toll on their families and still affects their children and grandchildren to this day. We all make mistakes when we\u2019re young, but those mistakes shouldn\u2019t determine our futures. I'm leading the Second Chance for Justice legislative package with Congresswoman Kamlager-Dove and Senator Booker because I believe our children deserve to live in a world where they can change for the better, and where their futures are not defined by a single mistake. Our bills will provide smart, meaningful solutions and close the loopholes that criminalize at-risk kids. We should be investing in education and intervention for children, not spending money on keeping them locked up.\u201d\n\n\u201cIt is unconscionable that our nation \u2013 the land of the free \u2013 has the highest incarceration rate for youth in the world. The need to reform our juvenile system has never been more apparent. I am glad to join Senator Booker and Congressman C\u00e1rdenas in introducing the Second Chance for Justice Package,\u201dsaid Representative Kamlager-Dove. \u201cThese three important pieces of legislation will put us on a path toward a more just system by protecting juveniles\u2019 Miranda Rights and addressing systemic issues through intervention programs for at-risk youth. Our children are our future \u2013 only if we give them a chance to thrive.\u201d\n\nThe Second Chance for Justice Package includes three legislative bills that aim to reform the criminal and juvenile justice system by protecting children during police interrogations; supporting community-based organizations and their work to further evidence-based prevention and intervention initiatives for at-risk youth; and incentivizing states to eliminate the practice of collecting juvenile fines and fees that are harmful to children and families. The three legislative bills are:\n\nThe Protecting Miranda Rights for Kids Act would seek to protect children during police interactions and ensure their due process Constitutional Rights are upheld by requiring law enforcement to notify and contact parents or guardians in the event a child is arrested or detained.\n\nThe Community-Based Gang Intervention Act would allow the Office of Juvenile Justice and Prevention to provide funding and direction for agencies to intervene in the lives of young people who are at-risk, keeping them out of the prison system and making communities safer.\n\nThe Eliminating Debtor\u2019s Prison for Kids Act would establish a grant program to provide meaningful resources for intervention programs to prevent juveniles\u2019 initial involvement in the justice system and incentivize states to eliminate the practice of collecting juvenile fines and fees.\n\nThe Second Chance for Justice Package is endorsed by the following organizations: Juvenile Law Center, Brennan Center, Coalition for Engaged Education, Revolve Impact, The Sentencing Project, Human Rights for Kids, Anti-Recidivism Coalition, Mothers of Incarcerated Sons and Daughters-MISD, Ubuntu Village, NOLA, Louisiana Center for Children\u2019s Rights, The Gault Center.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:18:03Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-blumenthal-moran-announce-bipartisan-discussion-draft-of-legislation-to-protect-college-athletes-health-education-and-economic-rights", "Booker, Blumenthal, Moran Announce Bipartisan Discussion Draft of Legislation to Protect College Athletes\u2019 Health, Education, & Economic Rights", "2023-07-20", "2023", "2023-07", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), and Jerry Moran (R-KS) announced a bipartisan discussion draft of legislation to reform college athletics and prioritize athletes\u2019 health, education, and economic rights. The College Athletes Protection & Compensation Act would set national standards for name, image, and likeness (NIL), establish a Medical Trust Fund to provide care to injured athletes, prioritize athletes\u2019 educational outcomes, and safeguard athletes\u2019 health and wellness.\n\nWith student-athletes now able to benefit from NIL and states responding with a patchwork of rules and regulations, the bipartisan framework would set national standards to give athletes the economic and educational opportunities they deserve.\n\n\u201cBeing a college athlete was one of the greatest gifts of my life \u2013 it opened doors of opportunity and offered lessons I carry with me to this day,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cBut it also opened my eyes to some deep, systemic injustices in the system \u2013 a system that, to this day, continues to put profits over athletes. This bipartisan proposal represents a major step forward, and I\u2019m grateful for the partnership with Senators Blumenthal and Moran. It would make college athletics fairer, safer, and more just, and empower more young people to succeed in sports and beyond.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis bipartisan framework is a milestone step forward for college athletes\u2014protecting sports heroes whose blood, sweat and sacrifice drive a multibillion dollar industry,\u201dsaid Senator Blumenthal.\u201cThey need a level playing field with guarantees of economic opportunities, educational outcomes, and essential health care. For far too long the NCAA and powerful special interests have held sway, putting athletes second to dollars. Athletes deserve national NIL standards, a Medical Trust Fund, scholarship safeguards, protection against mistreatment and abuse, and more. America\u2019s athletes\u2014all 500,000\u2014deserve these basic rights. I thank my colleagues Senators Booker and Moran for all the hard work necessary to reach this milestone.\u201d\n\n\u201cKansas has an unparalleled history of college athletics that includes several premier programs attracting student athletes from all over the nation and the world,\u201d said Senator Moran. \u201cIt is no secret that college athletics have grown into an increasingly profitable, billion dollar industry, however the rules surrounding athlete compensation have not been modernized. Together, Sens. Booker, Blumenthal and I are releasing this discussion draft to empower student athletes while maintaining the integrity of college sports that we all know and love. Athletics teach young men and women many valuable skills that serve them throughout their life, and it\u2019s important to protect their ability to pursue an education while allowing them to capitalize on their name, image and likeness as a student athlete.\u201d\n\nSpecifically, the College Athletes Protection & Compensation Act would:\n\nEstablish National NIL Standards & Protect Athletes\u2019 Economic Opportunities: The measure would establish the College Athletics Corporation (CAC), a central oversight entity that would set, administer, and enforce rules and standards to protect athletes who enter into endorsement contracts. Athletes would be allowed to have representatives assisting them with contracts, finances, marketing, and brand management, and institutions would be prohibited from punishing athletes for receiving food, rent, medical expenses, insurance, tuition, fees, books, and transportation from a third party.\n\nEstablish a Medical Trust Fund & Cover Injured Athletes\u2019 Out-of-Pocket Costs: Schools and the Medical Trust Fund would cover the out-of-pocket expenses for injuries and other long-term conditions resulting from athletes\u2019 participation in sports. The Trust Fund would cover medical expenses for college athletes diagnosed with significant long-term conditions related to their participation in college athletics, including chronic traumatic encephalopathy and any other traumatic injuries.\n\nPrioritize Athletes\u2019 Educational Outcomes: Athletes would retain their aid covering tuition, books, and other fees until they graduate. Institutions would be required to continue offering the aid in the case of suffering a career-ending injury and being cut from a team.\n\nSafeguard Athletes\u2019 Health and Wellness: The framework would establish health, wellness, and safety standards to protect college athletes from serious injury, mistreatment, abuse, and death. These standards would focus on conditions such as cardiac health, concussion and traumatic brain injuries, illegal performance enhancers and substance abuse, mental health, overuse injuries, heat-related illnesses, sexual assault, sexual harassment, and interpersonal violence. It would also protect the trainers, physical therapists, and other medical personnel by prohibiting coaches and other nonmedical personnel from attempting to influence or disregard decisions that put athletes\u2019 health and safety first.\n\nBring Transparency to College Athletics: Schools would be required to report revenues and expenditures of each athletics program, the average number of hours college athletes spent on college athletic events, and academic outcomes and majors for college athletes.\n\nSet Athletes Up for Long-Term Success: Athletes would be required to take financial literacy and lifestyle development courses where they would be taught personal budgeting, debt, credit, interest rates, contracts, tax liability, and other issues relating to their endorsements and income.\n\nEnsure Gender Parity in Tournaments: Athletic associations must provide men and women college athletes access to the same facilities and services during tournaments.\n\nThe full text of the discussion draft can be found here.\n\nThe one-pager can be found here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:18:03Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-salinas-blumenauer-introduce-bicameral-bill-to-boost-crop-insurance-coverage-for-small-farms-and-specialty-crop-farms", "Booker, Salinas, Blumenauer Introduce Bicameral Bill to Boost Crop Insurance Coverage for Small Farms and Specialty Crop Farms", "2023-07-20", "2023", "2023-07", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.) and U.S. House Representatives Andrea Salinas (OR-06) and Earl Blumenauer (OR-03) introduced the Insuring Fairness for Family Farmers Act, legislation that would reform federal crop insurance subsidies to better incentivize crop insurance agents to provide coverage to small farms and specialty crop farmers.\n\nRight now, specialty crop farms and small farms have much lower rates of coverage than large, commodity crop farms. This under-coverage is driven by the federal subsidies that provide crop insurance agents with commissions for each policy that they sell. These commissions are currently based on a percentage of the premium of the policy sold. Crop insurance policies for larger farms have larger premiums, strongly incentivizing agents to write policies for the largest farms instead of small farms. In 2022, agents selling the top 3% of largest policies collected an enormous, disproportionate 37% of total agent commissions.\n\nFurther, specialty crop farms often require insurance that is more labor-intensive to write and service than commodity crop farms, which means crop insurance agents are dis-incentivized from writing policies for specialty crops, since they are not compensated for the extra time they spend on them.\n\nThe Insuring Fairness for Family Farmers Act (IFFFA) would revise how crop insurance agent commissions are calculated to level the playing field for small farms. IFFFA would make agent compensation be based on how much effort selling or servicing the policy requires for the agent. This would level the playing field for farms of all sizes to get assistance from agents and ensure that agents are fairly compensated for writing policies for small farms and specialty crop farms. The bill would also give bonuses to agents who write policies for farms that have not been covered before, and bonuses to those who write policies to cover small farms and certain specialty crop farms. The changes to agent incentives would be revenue-neutral, meaning that the overall amount of incentives going to crop insurance agents would be unchanged. A large majority of agents would see an increase in commissions per policy as a result of this bill.\n\n\"Specialty crop farmers and small farmers are not able to take advantage of crop insurance if they are not given the opportunity to understand it and purchase it,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cMy bill will fix the current inequities in federal subsidies, so that insurance agents are adequately compensated for selling policies to these producers. By ensuring access to crop insurance for all types of producers, we can promote a more resilient agriculture sector.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe vast majority of farms in Oregon are small family farms, and crop insurance is one of their most valuable tools against bad weather, natural disasters, and volatile markets,\u201dsaid Representative Salinas. \u201cUnfortunately, specialty crops have consistently lagged behind commodity crops in crop insurance coverage levels, and small farms are much less likely than large farms to have crop insurance leaving them without a safety net when times get hard. In an ordinary year, 89% of theFarm Billgoes to approximately 150,000 farms, while the other 2 million farms in the U.S. are forced to fight for that remaining 11%. Small family farms are too often left out of theFarm Billprocess, despite being the backbone of Oregon agriculture. TheInsuring Fairness for Family Farmers Actwill help restore fairness to this process and ensure that these farms remain viable not just in the near term, but for years to come.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe Farm Bill has historically called fruits, veggies, nuts, and berries \u2018specialty crops,\u2019\u201dsaid Representative Blumenauer.\u201cIn Oregon, we call these crops \u2018food.\u2019 Farmers who grow them should be able to access adequate insurance coverage to guard against disaster. I appreciate Congresswoman Salinas\u2019 partnership on this issue.\u201d\n\n\u201cAmerican farmers of all sizes deserve a strong, robust safety net that allows them to withstand tough years, keeping them on their land so they can feed their neighbors and their communities,\u201d said Joe Van Wye, Policy and Outreach Director at Farm Action Fund. \u201cUnfortunately, as it stands today, the federal crop insurance program incentivizes agents to provide the lion\u2019s share of policies to the largest farms, often at the expense of fruit and vegetable growers who struggle to secure insurance. We applaud Senator Booker and Representatives Salinas and Blumenauer and urge passage of their \u2018Insuring Fairness for Family Farmers Act\u2019 so that federal crop insurance will work better for the family farmers and specialty crop growers who need it the most.\u201d\n\n\u201c[This bill] prompts an important question about why some farmers are able to access crop insurance easily and others are effectively shut out of the program. We often hear from beginning, small, and specialty crop farmers who cannot find an insurance agent willing to tailor a policy to their operation because of the additional time required and the lower return. The idea driving this bill can help close the coverage gap and insure the diversity of American agriculture against worsening weather events,\u201d said Billy Hackett, Policy Specialist at the National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition.\n\nThe legislation is supported by the following organizations: Farm Action Fund, National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition, Environmental Working Group, Taxpayers for Common Sense, National Resource Defense Council, Sierra Club, Ohio Ecological Food and Farm Association.\n\nThe bill is cosponsored by U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Senator Welch (D-VT).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:18:03Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-cornyn-announce-reintroduction-of-bipartisan-legislation-to-expand-access-to-tutoring-for-underserved-students", "Booker, Cornyn Announce Reintroduction of Bipartisan Legislation to Expand Access to Tutoring for Underserved Students", "2023-07-19", "2023", "2023-07", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. - Today, U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and John Cornyn (R-TX) announced the reintroduction of the bipartisan Partnering Aspiring Teachers with High-Need Schools (PATHS) to Tutor Act, legislation that would expand access to one-on-one and small group tutoring in underserved communities. The legislation will also strengthen the pipeline of future teachers by placing teacher-candidates into tutoring roles.\n\nAccording to the 2023 National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) conducted by the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), reading and mathematics assessments revealed a declining trend among 13-year-old students in the 2022-23 school year. The data showed a decrease of 4 points in reading and 9 points in mathematics compared to the previous assessment in 2019-20, with an overall drop of 7 points in reading and 14 points in mathematics over the past decade. The racial disparities were exacerbated, as Black students experienced a 13-point decrease compared to a 6-point decrease among White students, widening the White-Black score gap from 35 points in 2020 to 42 points in 2023. Notably, the last time that 13-year-olds performed as low in math was in 1990 and 2004 for reading.\n\n\u201cWe must work towards a more equitable education system that allows all students to reach their full potential and ensures the next generation of educators have the resources they need to succeed,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cAs we see an alarming decline in academic performance among students in New Jersey and across the United States, particularly among students of color and students from low-income communities, it is crucial we prioritize equitable access to quality education for all children. This bipartisan legislation will help bridge the opportunity gap by expanding access to one-on-one and small group high-quality tutoring for underserved students, while also strengthening the teacher preparation pipeline for our future educators.\u201d\n\n\u201cSadly, far too many students in Texas do not receive the educational tools they need to succeed,\" said Senator Cornyn. \"The PATHS to Tutor Act will expand access to small group tutoring in high-need areas while simultaneously reducing economic burdens on our teachers by allowing this tutoring to count toward national service and their TEACH grant service requirement. Texas students deserve every resource we can give them to achieve on a level playing field, and this legislation will give them just that.\u201d\n\n\"This is a critical time for our nation to provide all PK-12 students, especially students from historically marginalized communities, with the support they need to thrive, and to strengthen the pipeline and preparedness of aspiring teachers,\" said Valerie Sakimura, executive director of Deans for Impact. \"The PATHS to Tutor Act would do both, by expanding students' access to evidence-based, high-impact tutoring and supporting future teachers with the instructional practice and resources they need to be successful by day one of leading a classroom.\"\n\n\u201cThis is a critical time for our nation to provide all PK-12 students, especially students from historically marginalized communities, with the support they need to thrive, and to strengthen the pipeline and preparedness of aspiring teachers. The PATHS to Tutor Act would do both, by expanding students' access to evidence-based, high-impact tutoring and supporting future teachers with the instructional practice and resources they need to be successful by day one of leading a classroom,\u201d said Valerie Sakimura, Executive Director, Deans for Impact.\n\n\u201cThe PATHS to Tutor ACT is an inspiring bipartisan commitment to resourcing solutions to solve two of our most pressing challenges in education: mitigating instructional loss and ensuring we have well resourced educator pipelines for our school. This commitment to ensuring that communities can drive talent development approaches relevant to their local needs ensures that we are investing in our nation's future,\u201d said Erin Mote, Executive Director, InnovateEDU.\n\n\u201cHigh quality instruction is absolutely essential for students to accelerate their learning. The PATHS to Tutor Act invests in strengthening the effectiveness of educators, enabling them to better meet students\u2019 academic and social-emotional needs,\u201d said Joshua H. Barnett, Chief Executive Officer, National Institute for Excellence in Teaching.\n\n\u201cThe PATHS Act is distinct in its approach to advancing high-quality tutoring. It recognizes that students\u2019 social and emotional needs deserve attention and consideration as they continue to recover from the pandemic. Research-based social and emotional skill-building continues to be an essential part of the equation in addressing academic learning recovery and promoting student success in general. By valuing this part of students\u2019 learning experience, the PATHS Act helps put young people on a stronger academic trajectory and builds the pathway to a healthier adulthood,\u201d said Andrea Lovanhill, CEO, Committee for Children.\n\nSpecifically, the PATHS to Tutor Act would:\n\nProvide funding for innovative partnerships between schools of education and community-based organizations (CBOs) to expand access to one-on-one tutoring for low-income students and/or high-need schools.\n\n$500 million in competitive grants for teacher-preparation programs to partner with K-12 schools, other Institute of Higher Education (IHE), CBOs, teacher unions and other groups to provide high-dosage tutoring and small group instruction to high-need schools and low-income communities.\n\nReduce the economic burden on teachers by making tutoring and small group instruction count toward loan repayment and national service.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:18:03Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-delauro-reintroduce-bicameral-legislation-to-increase-access-to-infertility-treatment", "Booker, DeLauro Reintroduce Bicameral Legislation to Increase Access to Infertility Treatment", "2023-07-19", "2023", "2023-07", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) and U.S. Representative Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) reintroduced the bicameral Access to Infertility Treatment and Care Act, legislation that would require more health insurers to provide coverage for infertility treatment, as well as fertility preservation services for individuals who undergo medically necessary procedures that may cause infertility, such as chemotherapy.\n\n\u201cInfertility is a prevalent medical condition, but treatments are often cost prohibitive for many and few health insurance plans cover them,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cWe must not allow financial constraints dictate who gets the opportunity to start or grow a family. I am proud to join Representative DeLauro in introducing this bill that will require more insurance plans to cover treatment for infertility and fertility preservation services, so everyone has access to the care they need to grow their families.\u201d\n\n\u201cWhen people do not have insurance coverage for infertility treatment and care, they are forced to make impossible choices between essentials like food, clothing, and housing or paying out of pocket for the chance to have a child,\u201dsaid Representative DeLauro. \u201cThe emotional and physical toll of infertility should not be intensified by the financial burden that can come with treatment. This bill will ensure that American families get the insurance coverage they deserve and the opportunity to grow their family.\u201d\n\n\u201cToo many people in the U.S. struggle to build their family, with out-of-pocket medical costs creating the biggest barrier. We need to prioritize family building, and that means policy change that allows for everyone to access the medical care they need to build their family. Our community applauds Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro and Senator Cory Booker on being champions for families by introducing the \u2018Access to Infertility Treatment and Care Act\u2019,\u201d said Barbara Collura, President/CEO, RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association.\n\n\"Infertility care is health care. Polycystic ovary syndrome is one of the most common hormone disorders in women and one of the most frequent causes of infertility. People with medical conditions that impact their ability to build their families need access to treatments and interventions to help them conceive their children. Insurance often covers the diagnosis of infertility but not the treatment. This discriminatory practice has rendered infertility treatments unaffordable for many families and severely impacts their financial futures as well as their ability to have children. We commend this effort to increase access to much-needed infertility care for everyone diagnosed with infertility,\" said Sasha Ottey, MHA, MT (ASCP), Executive Director of PCOS Challenge: The National Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Association.\n\n\u201cCost should never be a barrier to growing your family, but for many military members, it is. TRICARE, the military health benefit, does not cover infertility treatment, which makes family planning impossible for those in uniform and their loved ones navigating deployments, trainings, and their duty to our nation. We thank Senator Booker and Representative DeLauro for introducing this important legislation and for including TRICARE in its requirements,\u201d said Besa Pinchotti, CEO of National Military Family Association.\n\n\u201cHadassah applauds Senator Booker and Representative DeLauro for introducing this important measure to expand access to fertility preservation services and infertility care,\u201d said Hadassah National President Rhoda Smolow. \u201cInfertility impacts millions of people across the United States and disproportionately impacts the Jewish community. Hadassah is proud to lead efforts to destigmatize infertility and advocate for expanded research, treatments, and access to care,\u201d said Rhoda Smolow, President of Hadassah, The Women\u2019s Zionist Organization of America.\n\n\u201cCurrently, coverage for infertility treatment and services in the US is limited by zip code and employer. The Access to Infertility Treatment and Care Act would help individuals and families who are impacted by infertility by requiring that health plans provide coverage for the treatment of infertility and ensure that these plans also cover fertility preservation services for individuals who undergo a medically necessary procedure that may cause infertility, such as chemotherapy. ASRM is proud to endorse the Access to Infertility Treatment and Care Act, and we commend Senator Booker and Representative DeLauro for their leadership and commitment to reproductive healthcare,\u201d said Dr. Michael Thomas, President of The American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM).\n\nDespite the prevalence of infertility \u2013 a reported one in eight couples have challenges conceiving -- coverage for treatment options is limited. For example, only 27 percent of large employers -- and 14 percent of small employers provide insurance coverage for in vitro fertilization. For those who have the resources and decide to pay out-of-pocket for infertility treatment, costs can easily exceed $10,000.\n\nSpecifically, the Access to Infertility Treatment and Care Act would:\n\nRequire most private health insurance plans, as well as plans offered by the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program, Medicaid, TRICARE, ERISA, and the VA, to provide coverage for treatment of infertility without raising insurance or copayment costs.\n\nEnsure these plans cover fertility preservation services for individuals who undergo a medically necessary procedure that may cause infertility.\n\nThe bill is endorsed by the following organizations: The American Urological Association (AUA), Endocrine Society, Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology, National Military Family Association, Alliance for Fertility Preservation, National Association of Nurse Practitioners in Women\u2019s Health, Service Women\u2019s Action Network, Hadassah, The Women's Zionist Organization of America, Inc., North American Society for Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology, RESOLVE, ASRM, American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, Society of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (SREI), PCOS Challenge: The National Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Association.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:18:03Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-rubio-introduce-bipartisan-snap-legislation-to-measure-and-improve-nutrition-security-and-diet-quality", "Booker, Rubio Introduce Bipartisan SNAP Legislation to Measure and Improve Nutrition Security and Diet Quality", "2023-07-14", "2023", "2023-07", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Marco Rubio (R-FL) introduced the bipartisan SNAP Nutrition Security Act, legislation that would amend the Food and Nutrition Act of 2008 to prioritize, measure and improve diet quality and nutrition security in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), especially for children.\n\nDiet-related chronic diseases such as diabetes, obesity, heart disease, stroke, and certain cancers are the leading causes of death and disability in the United States. At present, half of U.S. adults have prediabetes or type 2 diabetes, and 3 in 4 are overweight or obese. Poor diet and obesity are estimated to account for as much as 30 percent of cancer deaths in the U.S. These conditions create a heavy burden for individuals and society, negatively impacting quality of life, increasing health care costs, reducing productivity, and impacting military readiness. The leading risk factor for chronic disease development is poor nutrition. The economic cost of nutrition-related chronic diseases has been estimated at $16 trillion over the period from 2011 to 2020.\n\nSNAP is the largest food safety net program and provides food assistance to low-income families, helping to reduce poverty and food insecurity. However, less is known about SNAP\u2019s impact on improving nutrition security, defined as consistent and equitable access to healthy, safe, affordable foods essential to optimal health and wellbeing. Nutrition security builds on food security by emphasizing the coexistence of hunger and diet-related chronic disease that disproportionately impacts Americans with low incomes. Nutrition security focuses on access to nutritious food, where food security focuses on access to all foods. Both food and nutrition security are critical, complementary measures for understanding SNAP\u2019s impact, identifying ways to mitigate hunger and malnutrition, and improving access to healthy food to mitigate chronic disease disparities.\n\n\u201cSNAP plays a crucial role in alleviating poverty and food insecurity, but needs to do better at improving nutrition security and diet quality for program participants,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cWe need timely, comprehensive data to determine SNAP\u2019s impact on nutrition security and diet quality in order to effectively promote access to nutritious food, improve the well-being of SNAP recipients, and help address our nation\u2019s alarming increase in chronic diet-related diseases, such as diabetes, heart disease, and cancer.\u201d\n\n\u201cIn the midst of America\u2019s obesity crisis, taxpayer dollars shouldn't be spent on junk food,\u201d said Senator Rubio. \u201cThis legislation would strengthen the SNAP program by requiring the USDA to collect data on the impact of SNAP. This data willprovidea clearer picture of how SNAP can be used to improverecipient\u2019shealth and ensure the program promotes a healthy, nutritious diet.\u201d\n\n\u201cWhat we eat and drink matter to our heart and brain health. The SNAP Nutrition Security Act of 2023 would help ensure that programs like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program can adequately track and measure the availability, accessibility and affordability of nutritious foods, making a healthy diet a reality for more people across the country,\u201d said Mark Schoeberl, Executive Vice President of Advocacy at the American Heart Association. \u201cThe American Heart Association thanks Senators Booker and Rubio for their work to improve food security and nutrition quality for families nationwide and urges their colleagues in Congress to support this important legislation.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis bipartisan bill will provide the information needed to improve access to nutritious food and strengthen SNAP, our largest food safety net program,\u201d said Center for Science in the Public Interest Senior Policy Associate Joelle Johnson. \u201cCSPI thanks Senators Booker and Rubio for investing in tools to inform future approaches to mitigate chronic disease disparities. We urge Congress to do the same by including The Nutrition Security Act in the 2023 Farm Bill.\u201d\n\n\"SNAP is a powerful program for reducing hunger and food insecurity. Given the program\u2019s extensive reach and potential, alongside the staggering consequences of our national epidemic of diet-related diseases, it's time to make advancing nutrition security an additional core, measurable objective of SNAP,\" said Dariush Mozaffarian, a cardiologist and Jean Mayer Professor at the Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy at Tufts University. \"This new bill is a sensible step to advance nutrition security through a lens of health equity, as people who experience food insecurity have higher risk for poor nutrition and diet-related conditions, founded in long-standing social determinants of health and other structural inequities.\"\n\n\u201cLow-income Americans repeatedly tell us they think federal food programs such as SNAP should do more to both reduce U.S. hunger and help families afford healthier food. We are pleased that this bill will formalize both goals within the program,\u201d said Joel Berg, CEO of Hunger Free America, a nationwide direct service and advocacy organization. \u201cAll Americans deserve access to sufficient, nutritious food. We greatly thank Senator Booker for his leadership on these issues.\u201d\n\n\u201cBy strengthening SNAP, we can help protect national security by providing more young Americans access to nutritious foods so they can grow up healthy and prepared for success,\u201d said Lieutenant General Norman Seip, U.S. Air Force (Ret.), Mission: Readiness member.\n\n\"Efforts to insure that all Americans, regardless of income, have access to the nutrition they need will help address rapidly rising rates of obesity and diabetes in the US,\u201d said Hilary Seligman, Director, Food Policy, Health, and Hunger Research Program at UCSF\u2019s Center for Vulnerable Populations. \u201cA continued focus on nutrition security and high-quality dietary intake will help set the US on a trajectory toward better health now and in generations to come. SNAP is an enormously important part of these efforts.\"\n\n\u201cCongress should make diet quality a core, statutory focus of SNAP. The Bipartisan Policy Center endorses this bipartisan legislation that will help guarantee that the SNAP program not only addresses hunger but also facilitates access to nutritious foods,\u201d said Shana Christrup, Director of Public Health with the Bipartisan Policy Center. \u201cA critical initial measure toward strengthening nutrition security involves a robust data collection strategy which will provide vital insights to shape future SNAP strategies that advance food and nutrition security. BPC is excited to work with Senators Booker and Rubio on this bipartisan endeavor to enhance SNAP and create a positive impact.\u201d\n\n\"Throughout its decades of existence, there is no question that the SNAP program has been highly effective and efficient at reducing hunger. Today's current realities, where 50% of Americans have a preventable chronic disease, 90% do not meet Dietary Guidelines for Americans\u2019 fruit and vegetable recommendations, and SNAP participants' consistently cite affordability as a barrier to healthier eating, only underscore how far we must go to improve positive health outcomes for communities across the U.S.,\" said International Fresh Produce Association CEO Cathy Burns. \"To that end, we must ensure that SNAP's success is measured by its effectiveness in ensuring individuals have access to foods of high dietary quality like fresh fruits and vegetables. We thank Senators Booker and Rubio for their leadership to continue the fight of reducing nutrition insecurity in this country.\"\n\n\u201cThey say we are what we eat, and if we want healthier communities that are able to feed themselves with dignity, we must make nutrition a priority in the fight against hunger. I applaud this bipartisan effort from Senators Booker and Rubio, and encourage everyone to join them in building longer tables where a plate of food represents a better tomorrow\u201d,said Jos\u00e9 Andr\u00e9s, a chef, humanitarian, and founder of the Global Food Institute at George Washington University.\n\nUSDA currently monitors the extent and severity of food insecurity in U.S. households. This legislation would add nutrition security to USDA\u2019s existing and annual reporting which will generate, for the first time, data needed to determine how SNAP impacts nutrition security, and therefore could improve access to nutritious food and the health and wellbeing of SNAP recipients. Understanding and strengthening the positive impact of SNAP also requires more regular data collection. The bill requires a nationally- and state-representative SNAP sales report every four years. Sales data would be de-identified and reported in the aggregate to protect the identity of both SNAP participants and retailers. This report would give insight into affordability of foods, the timing of purchases within a monthly benefit issuance cycle, and the types of products typically purchased. Knowing when certain foods are purchased and what type of food is being purchased will help improve ways that SNAP can advance food and nutrition security. USDA produced a similar study in 2016.\n\nRequire USDA to measure and annually report on nutrition security and diet quality, as USDA currently does for food security.\n\nAdd food and nutrition security reporting to annual state SNAP-Ed reports, which will help states determine how they can improve food and nutrition security.\n\nCollect and report aggregate (de-identified) nationally- and state-representative SNAP food sales data.\n\nAdd improving nutrition security and diet quality to Congress\u2019s declaration of policy for SNAP, which provides Congressional direction for the program and establishes USDA goals.\n\nThe full list of endorsing organizations can be found here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:18:03Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-capito-reintroduce-bipartisan-bicameral-legislation-to-tackle-uterine-fibroids-through-research-and-education", "Booker, Capito Reintroduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Tackle Uterine Fibroids through Research and Education", "2023-07-13", "2023", "2023-07", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) reintroduced the bipartisan Stephanie Tubbs Jones Uterine Fibroid Research and Education Act, legislation that would expand research and raise awareness through public education programs to support women suffering from uterine fibroids. The legislation is named after the late U.S. Representative Stephanie Tubbs Jones of Ohio, who championed this issue. U.S. Representatives Yvette Clarke (D-NY), Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ), and Robin Kelly (D-IL) introduced the bill in the House.\n\n\u201cMillions of Americans, especially Black women, are living with uterine fibroids and suffering from its devastating health impacts,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cWe must continue raising awareness and investing in diagnostic and treatment options to alleviate the burden of uterine fibroids. I am proud to join my colleagues in introducing this important legislation that will expand research efforts, improve public awareness, and promote evidence-based care for uterine fibroids. We must empower women with the knowledge and resources they need to make informed decisions about their health.\"\n\n\u201cI\u2019m proud to join with Senator Booker to both honor a champion of this issue and help prevent, diagnose, and treat uterine fibroids for future generations of women,\u201d said Senator Capito. \u201cMillions of women are affected by uterine fibroids, which often go undiagnosed and can have significant health consequences in both the short and long term. Making investments in research and education efforts is a critical step in supporting individuals who suffer from this condition across our country.\u201d\n\n\u201cIn a nation where approximately 25 percent of all Black women will suffer from uterine fibroids before their 25th birthday, there exists a glaring, tragic health inequity that must be addressed,\u201d said Representative Clarke. \u201cFibroids have ravaged the lives of women \u2014 particularly in the Black community \u2014 across the country, and increasing funding for research and public education related to fibroids is critical to reversing this devastating trend. The Stephanie Tubbs Jones Uterine Fibroid Research and Education Act is an important step towards prioritizing women\u2019s healthcare with the urgency it warrants.\u201d\n\n\u201cBlack women are more likely to be at risk of uterine fibroids and suffer from complications that affect their everyday lives,\" said Representative Bonnie Watson Coleman. \u201cThese burdens contribute to greater overall lifetime stress, decreasing the quality of life. Fibroids are a public health issue, and I join my colleagues in advancing legislation that provides resources to relieve this suffering for women and girls everywhere.\u201d\n\n\"An estimated 26 million people in the United States suffer from uterine fibroids. Symptoms can be debilitating, and diagnosis and treatment is often difficult to access and can impact fertility. I\u2019m proud to support this legislation to better understand uterine fibroids and develop more effective treatments. This research is especially important for Black women, who are three times more likely than other groups to develop uterine fibroids. This bill will establish funding to increase research and awareness of uterine fibroids, and to improve access to treatment options for those suffering from uterine fibroids,\u201d said Representative Robin Kelly.\n\nJuly marks Fibroid Awareness Month, an opportunity to raise awareness for uterine fibroids, which are noncancerous growths of the uterus that impact an estimated 26 million women nationwide. Symptoms of this devastating condition include severe menstrual bleeding, anemia, pregnancy complications and loss, and infertility.\n\nIn addition to the pain and discomfort they cause, uterine fibroids cost the health care system an estimated $5.9 billion to $34.4 billion every year. Despite their prevalence and impact, preventing, diagnosing, and treating uterine fibroids is very difficult. This condition often goes undiagnosed, and even when it is accurately diagnosed, treatment is usually invasive and can lead to infertility. Black women are particularly impacted by this condition as they tend to develop uterine fibroids earlier, have larger and a greater number of fibroids, and have more severe symptoms and complications.\n\nSpecifically, the Stephanie Tubbs Jones Uterine Fibroid Research and Education Act would:\n\nExpand and intensify research on uterine fibroids and authorize $30 million a year for fiscal years 2024 through 2028 for that effort.\n\nRequire the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to collect data on services provided to people diagnosed with uterine fibroids under Medicaid or the Children\u2019s Health Insurance Program (CHIP).\n\nCreate a public education program for uterine fibroids.\n\nPromote evidence-based care for uterine fibroids among health care providers.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T00:18:03Z"]], "truncated": false, "filtered_table_rows_count": 215, "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": "NJ", "p2": "2023"}}, "facet_results": {"party": {"name": "party", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?chamber=Senate&state=NJ&year=2023", "results": [{"value": "Democrat", "label": "Democrat", "count": 215, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=Senate&state=NJ&year=2023&party=Democrat", "selected": false}], "truncated": false}, "chamber": {"name": "chamber", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?chamber=Senate&state=NJ&year=2023", "results": [{"value": "Senate", "label": "Senate", "count": 215, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=NJ&year=2023", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "state": {"name": "state", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?chamber=Senate&state=NJ&year=2023", "results": [{"value": "NJ", "label": "NJ", "count": 215, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=Senate&year=2023", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "year": {"name": "year", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?chamber=Senate&state=NJ&year=2023", "results": [{"value": "2023", "label": "2023", "count": 215, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=Senate&state=NJ", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}}, "suggested_facets": [], "next": "2023-07-13,https~3A~2F~2Fwww~2Ebooker~2Esenate~2Egov~2Fnews~2Fpress~2Fbooker-capito-reintroduce-bipartisan-bicameral-legislation-to-tackle-uterine-fibroids-through-research-and-education", "next_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?chamber=Senate&state=NJ&year=2023&_next=2023-07-13%2Chttps~3A~2F~2Fwww~2Ebooker~2Esenate~2Egov~2Fnews~2Fpress~2Fbooker-capito-reintroduce-bipartisan-bicameral-legislation-to-tackle-uterine-fibroids-through-research-and-education&_sort_desc=date", "private": false, "allow_execute_sql": true, "query_ms": 257.6132321264595, "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"}