{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where party = \"Democrat\", state = \"NJ\" and year = 2013 sorted by date descending", "rows": [["http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-and-menendez-urge-president-obama-deliver-keynote-rutgers-university%E2%80%99s", "Pallone and Menendez Urge President Obama to Deliver Keynote at Rutgers University\u2019s Commencement in 2016", "2013-12-23", "2013", "2013-12", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) and Senator Robert Menendez (D-NJ) led members of the New Jersey Congressional Delegation in sending a letter to President Obama urging him to accept Rutgers University\u2019s invitation to deliver the keynote address for its 250th Anniversary Commencement in 2016.\u00a0 Rutgers University, which is located in Congressman Pallone\u2019s district, is one of the largest and most prestigious research universities in the nation.\n\u00a0\nBelow is the full text of the letter:\n\u00a0\nDecember 23, 2013\n\u00a0\nPresident Barack Obama\nThe White House\n1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW\nWashington, D.C. 20006\n\u00a0\nDear President Obama:\n\u00a0\nWe write to encourage you to accept Rutgers University\u2019s invitation to deliver the keynote address for its 250th Anniversary Commencement in 2016.\u00a0\n\u00a0\nRutgers is one of the largest and most prestigious research universities in the nation.\u00a0 Started as Queens College under the royal charter of George III on November 10, 1766, Rutgers is today a proud land-grant university and member of the Association of American Universities.\u00a0\u00a0 Founded ten years before the United States was even a country, Rutgers is one of the original nine colonial colleges and the only one to become a flagship state land-grant university.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\n\u00a0\nRutgers has since grown to employ more than 25,000 faculty and staff in educating more than 65,000 full-time students on three campuses across the State of New Jersey.\u00a0 Rutgers students hail from all 50 states and more than 115 countries, and the university boasts 450,000 living alumni across the globe.\n\u00a0\nThroughout the university\u2019s long and distinguished history, Rutgers students and scholars have attained significant achievements in a variety of areas.\u00a0 In 1869, New Brunswick served as the location for the first intercollegiate football game, in which Rutgers bested Princeton 6-4.\u00a0 In 1952, Rutgers Professor Selman Waksman won the Nobel Prize for Medicine for research that led to the discovery of streptomycin, the first antibiotic effective against tuberculosis.\u00a0 Additionally, Rutgers students have been named Rhodes Scholars, Fulbright Fellows, Gates Cambridge Scholars, Churchill Scholars, Truman Scholars, Woodrow Wilson Scholars, and Udall Scholars.\u00a0 The faculty includes MacArthur \u201cGenius Award\u201d winners, National Medal of Science and National Medal of Technology recipients, Pulitzer Prize winners, and dozens of National Academies members.\n\u00a0\nRutgers prides itself on its commitment to diversity and has been recognized as one of the most diverse universities in the nation.\u00a0 Additionally, Rutgers is committed to introducing first-generation, low-income, and academically motivated students to the promises and opportunities of a college education through its Rutgers Future Scholars Program.\u00a0\n\u00a0\nWe are pleased to come together to support Rutgers University\u2019s invitation for you to address the graduates of the 250th anniversary commencement.\u00a0 Your attendance and participation will make this important milestone in Rutgers\u2019 history all the more memorable and auspicious.\u00a0\n\u00a0\n\u00a0\nSincerely,\n\u00a0\n\u00a0\n\u00a0\nFRANK PALLONE, JR. \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 ROBERT MENENDEZ\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 CORY BOOKER\nMember of Congress\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 United States Senator\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 United States Senator\n\u00a0\n\u00a0\n\u00a0\nDONALD PAYNE, JR.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 RODNEY FRELINGHUYSEN\nMember of Congress\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Member of Congress\n\u00a0\n\u00a0\n\u00a0\n\u00a0\nROBERT ANDREWS\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 LEONARD LANCE\nMember of Congress\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Member of Congress\n\u00a0\n\u00a0\n\u00a0\n\u00a0\nALBIO SIRES\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 FRANK LOBIONDO\nMember of Congress\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Member of Congress\n\u00a0\n\u00a0\n\u00a0\n\u00a0\nRUSH HOLT\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 JON RUNYAN\nMember of Congress\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Member of Congress\n\u00a0\n\u00a0\n\u00a0\n\u00a0\nBILL PASCRELL, JR.\nMember of Congress", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://sires.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-sires-applauds-3-billion-in-grant-funding-for-transit-resiliency", "Rep. Sires Applauds $3 Billion in Grant Funding for Transit Resiliency Projects", "2013-12-23", "2013", "2013-12", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Albio Sires", "S001165", "sires.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, D.C.)\u2014Today, Congressman Albio Sires welcomed the announcement that $3 billion in competitive grant funding through the Federal Transit Administration\u2019s (FTA) Hurricane Sandy Resilience Program will be made available for public transportation resiliency projects in regions affected by Hurricane Sandy, including New Jersey. \u00a0\u00a0Earlier this month, Congressman Sires urged FTA Administrator Peter Rogoff to provide the additional grant funding as expeditiously as possible so that New Jersey can continue addressing future transit vulnerabilities.\n\u00a0\n\u201cHurricane Sandy was the worst transit disaster in United States history,\u201d said Congressman Sires.\u00a0 \u201cAmerican tax payers should not be asked to simply rebuild our critical infrastructure to the level it was before the storm.\u00a0 We must rebuild smarter and stronger to ensure that we don\u2019t find ourselves in the same position the next time a major storm hits.\u201d\u00a0\u00a0\n\u00a0\nThe Federal Transit Administration has already allocated $1.3 billion from the Disaster Relief Appropriations Act of 2012 for locally prioritized resiliency projects. Public transportation providers will have until March 28, 2014 to submit applications for the Hurricane Sandy Resilience Program.\u00a0\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://payne.house.gov/press-release/payne-requests-presidential-proclamation", "Payne Requests Presidential Proclamation", "2013-12-18", "2013", "2013-12", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Donald Payne", "P000604", "payne.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. (NJ-10) authored and sent a letter to President Barack Obama requesting he issue a presidential proclamation designating March 2014 National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. \u00a0One-hundred and forty-six Members of Congress signed onto the letter in support of Rep. Payne, Jr.\u2019s efforts.\n\u00a0\nEarlier this year, Rep. Payne, Jr. introduced House Resolution 69 designating March 2013 as National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. Please see the letter to President Obama below:\n\u00a0\nDecember 16, 2013\n\u00a0\nPresident Barack Obama\nThe White House\n1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW\nWashington, DC 20500\n\u00a0\nDear Mr. President:\n\u00a0\nEvery March the colorectal cancer community honors those who are fighting or have lost their battle with colorectal cancer by holding special events to raise awareness about the disease, including symptoms, risk factors, and screening tests. We ask that you join us in spreading the message about colorectal cancer prevention and early detection by issuing a proclamation designating March 2014 as National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month.\n\u00a0\nDespite being one of the most preventable types of cancer, colorectal cancer is the second leading cause of cancer-related death in men and women in the United States and costs our health care system approximately $14 billion annually. The lifetime risk of getting colorectal cancer is one in 20. This year, an estimated 135,000 individuals in the United States will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer and more than 50,000 individuals will die from the disease.\n\u00a0\nColorectal cancer is largely preventable thanks to effective screening tools. Yet, one in three adults between the ages 50 and 75 are not up to date with recommended colorectal cancer screenings. Patients with localized colorectal cancer have a five-year survival rate of 90 percent, but only 39 percent of all diagnoses occur at this stage due, in part, to the underuse of screenings. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that if every individual aged 50 or older had regular screening tests, as many as 60 percent of deaths from colorectal cancer could be prevented. However, there is a great need to increase education and awareness about screenings.\n\u00a0\nLack of education and awareness are the biggest barriers to reducing death and suffering from colorectal cancer. While more than 90 percent of colorectal cancer cases are diagnosed in those aged 50 and older, anyone at any age can get colorectal cancer. Knowing the signs and symptoms of colorectal cancer is critical to an early diagnosis and timely medical intervention. Through education and awareness, we can erase the myths, stigma and embarrassment that are sometimes associated with colorectal cancer and screening, and we can remind the American public about healthy lifestyles that reduce the risk of colorectal cancer and other diseases.\n\u00a0\nThank you for considering our request for a proclamation designating March 2014 as National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month.\n\u00a0\nSincerely,\n\u00a0\nDonald M. Payne, Jr.\nRobert Andrews\nRon Barber\nKaren Bass\nJoyce Beatty\nDan Benishek\nSanford Bishop\nEarl Blumenauer\nRobert Brady\nSusan Brooks\nCorrine Brown\nJulia Brownley\nG.K. Butterfield\nLois Capps\nMichael Capuano\nMatthew Cartwright\nAndre Carson\nKathy Castor\nJason Chaffetz\nDonna Christensen\nYvette Clarke\nWilliam Lacy Clay\nEmanuel Cleaver\nJames Clyburn\nHoward Coble\nMike Coffman\nGerald Connolly\nJohn Conyers\nJim Cooper\nJoe Courtney\nAnder Crenshaw\nJoseph Crowley\nElijah Cummings\nDonna Edwards\nKeith Ellison\nElliot Engel\nSam Farr\nChaka Fattah\nMichael Fitzpatrick\nLois Frankel\nRodney Frelinghuysen\nMarcia Fudge\nDanny Davis\nSusan Davis\nPeter DeFazio\nTheodore Deutch\nRosa DeLauro\nCharles Dent\nMichael Doyle\nTulsi Gabbard\nSam Graves\nScott Garrett\nAl Green\nRaul Grijalva\nTrey Gowdy\nLuis Gutierrez\nAlcee Hastings\nBrian Higgins\nRuben Hinojosa\nMichael Honda\nRush Holt\nSteven Horsford\nSteve Israel\nDarrell Issa\nShelia Jackson Lee\nHakeem Jeffries\nEddie Bernice Johnson\nWilliam Keating\nRobin Kelly\nJoseph Kennedy\nDaniel Kildee\nDerek Kilmer\nRon Kind\nPeter King\nAnn Kuster\nRaul Labrador\nLeonard Lance\nBarbara Lee\nSander Levin\nJohn Lewis\nFrank LoBiondo\nBilly Long\nAlan Lowenthal\nMichelle Lujan Grisham\nDaniel Maffei\nCarolyn Maloney\nSean Maloney\nBetty McCollum\nJames McGovern\nMark Meadows\nPatrick Meehan\nGregory Meeks\nGwen Moore\nJames Moran\nPatrick Murphy\nJerrold Nadler\nJanet Napolitano\nRichard Neal\nEleanor Holmes Norton\nFrank Pallone\nBill Pascrell\nEd Perlmutter\nColin Peterson\nThomas Petri\nTed Poe\nJared Polis\nNick Rahall\nCharles Rangel\nTom Rice\nCedric Richmond\nDavid Roe\nDana Rohrabacher\nEdward Royce\nJon Runyan\nBobby Rush\nLinda Sanchez\nJames Sensenbrenner\nJose Serrano\nTerri Sewell\nJanice Schakowsky\nAdam Schiff\nBobby Scott\nDavid Scott\nAlbio Sires\nLouise Slaughter\nChris Smith\nJackie Speier\nEric Swalwell\nMark Takano\nBennie Thompson\nGlenn Thompson\nMichael Thompson\nJohn Tierney\nDina Titus\nPaul Tonko\nNiki Tsongas\nChris Van Hollen\nJuanVargas\nMarc Veasey\nFilemon Vela\nNydia Velazquez\nJackie Walorski\nMaxine Waters\nFrederica Wilson\nTed Yoho\nDon Young\n\u00a0\n\u00a0\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://sires.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-sires-introduces-bill-to-enhance-our-economy", "Congressman Sires Introduces Bill to Enhance our Economy", "2013-12-18", "2013", "2013-12", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Albio Sires", "S001165", "sires.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, D.C.) \u2013 Last week, Congressman Albio Sires introduced H.R. 3768, the Promoting Tourism to Enhance our Economy Act. A bill that will allow Canadian citizens who bring millions of dollars into the U.S. economy to continue to conveniently and safely travel between our shared borders.\n\u201cIncreasing tourism and encouraging Canadians to continue to visit the U.S. will grow our economy, better relationships with our neighbors to the north and bring money into the U.S. at no cost to the taxpayer,\u201d said Congressman Sires.\nOver 400,000 people cross the U.S. \u2013Canada border daily and our state of New Jersey sells more goods to Canada than any other country in the world.\u00a0 This produces over $16 billion in trade and impacts over 227,000 New Jersey jobs. The Promoting Tourism to Enhance our Economy Act is a responsible way to bring additional jobs and revenue into not just the state of New Jersey but the entire country.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-calls-extension-unemployment-insurance", "Pallone Calls for Extension of Unemployment Insurance", "2013-12-17", "2013", "2013-12", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.\u2014On Tuesday, December 17, 2013, at 11:00 a.m., Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) spoke at the Puerto Rican Association for Human Development (PRAHD) in Perth Amboy, NJ about the importance of unemployment benefits for out-of-work New Jerseyans.\u00a0 Congressman Pallone discussed the urgent need to renew the Emergency Unemployment Compensation (EUC) program, which provides up to 47 weeks of federally funded unemployment assistance, and is set to expire on December 28, 2013.\u00a0 Pallone called on Speaker of the House John Boehner to reconvene the House of Representatives to extend this critical lifeline to the long-term unemployed.\u00a0\n\u201cIt is unacceptable that the budget deal agreed to in the House last week did not include an extension of federal unemployment insurance,\u201d said Congressman Pallone.\u00a0 \u201c1.3 million Americans\u2014and 90,000 New Jerseyans\u2014should not be wondering how they will make ends meet this holiday season.\u00a0 Republicans are giving job seekers across the country a lump of coal in their stocking this year by turning their back on those who need assistance the most.\u201d\nLast week, Congressman Pallone, along with 176 House Democrats, sent a letter to Speaker Boehner urging him not to adjourn the House of Representatives for the year without extending vital unemployment insurance that is set to expire during the holidays, immediately cutting off aid to 1.3 million Americans.\u00a0 An additional 1.9 million Americans will lose their benefits in the first half of 2014 as their 26 weeks of state benefits run out.\nThe EUC program, authorized by Congress in 2008, has provided crucial support to the economy and to millions of Americans who have lost their jobs through no fault of their own.\u00a0 The EUC program provides up to 47 weeks of federally funded unemployment benefits when job seekers exhaust their 26 weeks of state administered aid. \u00a0\nFounded in 1974, the Puerto Rican Association for Human Development (PRAHD) aims to improve the social, economic, health and educational status of the surrounding community.\u00a0 Since its founding, the agency has grown and expanded to become a U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) certified comprehensive social service agency.\u00a0 PRAHD operates 16 programs that offer a wide range of services to more than 17,000 clients throughout Middlesex, Essex, Union, Monmouth and Ocean counties.\n\u00a0\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://sires.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/sires-votes-to-normalize-the-budget-process", "Sires Votes to Normalize the Budget Process", "2013-12-13", "2013", "2013-12", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Albio Sires", "S001165", "sires.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, D.C)- Last night, Congressman Sires voted in favor of the Bipartisan Budget Act of 2013 and Pathway for Sustainable Growth in Medicare Reform Act of 2013 (H.J. Res. 59).\u00a0 This resolution was a blueprint for future budgets.\u00a0 The bipartisan budget agreement caps topline discretionary spending for the current fiscal year at $1.012 trillion, and provides $63 billion in sequestration relief over the next two years.\n\u201cWhile this agreement is not perfect, it is a step in the right direction in preventing manufactured budget crises that has plagued Congress for the last several years. I am particularly pleased that this deal not only increases funding for defense measures, but also increases funding for critical non-defense domestic programs, such as Head Start and the National Institutes of Health.\u00a0 Furthermore, savings in this agreement are not done at the expense of programs that families and seniors depend on - the bipartisan deal does not cut one penny from Medicare, Social Security, or Medicaid benefits,\u201d expressed Congressman Sires.\nSpecifically, the agreement includes approximately $85 billion in mandatory savings and non-tax revenue.\u00a0 It accomplishes this through a number of deficit-reduction provisions, including a small increase in retirement contributions by new Federal employees and a tiny increase in security-related fees charged by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA).\u00a0 Overall, the agreement would reduce the deficit by $23 billion over the next ten years.\u00a0 In addition, the proposal would prevent a 24 percent scheduled cut in Medicare reimbursements to physicians through a small incremental increase in payments to doctors that accept Medicare through March 31, 2014.\u00a0 Repealing the scheduled cut will ensure that seniors continue to have access to their health care providers.\n\u201cUnfortunately, one glaring omission from this agreement is a proposal to extend unemployment insurance (UI) to the long term unemployed. Not only is extending unemployment insurance the right thing to do, but it is also good for the American economy. I have cosponsored H.R. 3546, the Emergency Unemployment Compensation Extension Act of 2013, which would extend EUC payments for eligible recipients through January 1, 2015. I will continue to fight for the extension of unemployment benefits as we go forward,\u201d stated Congressman Sires.\nH.J.Res. 59 is now under review before the Senate.\n\u00a0\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-announces-28-million-union-beach-and-middlesex-county-utilities-authority", "Pallone Announces $2.8 Million for Union Beach and Middlesex County Utilities Authority Projects", "2013-12-12", "2013", "2013-12", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, DC\u00a0\u2014 Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) announced that Union Beach and the Middlesex County Utilities Authority will be receiving more than $2.8 million in federal funding for continued projects as a result of Superstorm Sandy. The funding is being provided by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) via the Sandy aid package Pallone fought for in Congress.\n\u201cThese grants help to lessen the financial hit that our local governments still face as communities continue to recover from Sandy,\u201d said Congressman Pallone.\u00a0 \u201cAnd as we work to rebuild, we have a unique opportunity to improve our public infrastructure so it is stronger and can withstand future storms. I am grateful that FEMA recognizes the importance of these ongoing efforts in New Jersey.\u201d\nThis award provides $1,527,218.16 in federal funding to Union Beach for costs associated with loading, hauling and disposing of debris after Superstorm Sandy. Superstorm Sandy hit Union Beach particularly hard and federal assistance is critical to its efforts to rebuild and recover.\nThe Middlesex County Utilities Authority will also receive $1,340,015.46 in federal funding to provide bypass pumping for the Sayreville sewage treatment plant that was damaged as a result of Superstorm Sandy. This grant is in addition to the\u00a0$1.1 million that the Middlesex County Utilities Authority was awarded in January 2013 to repair the damaged pump station and install and operate a surge diversion facility to minimize surges to the pump station in the event of a future storm.\u00a0The station pumps sewage from 30 municipalities in Middlesex and Somerset Counties.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://payne.house.gov/press-release/payne-urges-speaker-boehner-bring-unemployment-insurance-extension", "Payne Urges Speaker Boehner to Bring Up Unemployment Insurance Extension", "2013-12-11", "2013", "2013-12", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Donald Payne", "P000604", "payne.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. (NJ-10) joined 165 House Democrats today in a letter urging Speaker John Boehner not to adjourn the House for the year without bringing up an extension of federal unemployment insurance, which is scheduled to expire December 28. \u00a0If federal unemployment insurance expires, it will immediately cut off all jobless aid to 1.3 million Americans, with an additional 1.9 million Americans who would lose eligibility for coverage in the first half of 2014. \u00a0In New Jersey, it means more than 90,300 people will cease to receive unemployment insurance almost immediately, with an additional 89,100 losing such benefits in the first six months of 2014.\u00a0 For a state-by-state breakdown of the effects, click here. One hundred and sixty-six House Democrats today are sending the following letter to Speaker Boehner urging him to immediately bring up an extension of federal unemployment insurance and to not adjourn the House for the year until he does:\nDecember 11, 2013\nThe Honorable John Boehner  \n\tSpeaker, U.S. House of Representatives  \n\tH232, U.S. Capitol  \n\tWashington, DC 20515\nDear Speaker Boehner:\nWe write to urge you to address the looming expiration of unemployment benefits for millions of Americans before adjourning Congress for the remainder of the year.\u00a0 Without swift Congressional action, 1.3 million jobless workers will have their benefits cut off on December 28th, and nearly another 1.9 million will lose their unemployment benefits over the first half of next year.\u00a0\u00a0 This would not only be a devastating blow for millions of Americans who are already struggling, but it would also hurt our economy.\nThe Emergency Unemployment Compensation (EUC) program is scheduled to immediately and completely stop at the end of 2013, during the holiday season, with the last payable week ending on December 28th.\u00a0 All current EUC beneficiaries will lose their benefits, and individuals exhausting their limited state unemployment benefits will no longer be eligible for EUC benefits in 2014.\u00a0 This cutoff will affect over 3 million Americans over the next six months, and thereby also negatively impact our economic growth. In fact, recent estimates indicate that the expiration of the EUC program would cost our economy 310,000 jobs and drain roughly four-tenths of a percentage point from first-quarter economic growth.\nWhile unemployment benefits remain a critical lifeline for dislocated workers and their families, these benefits have recently been significantly scaled back.\u00a0 According to the Congressional Research Service, the total amount of weeks of unemployment benefits has dropped by more than a third across the states, and by more than 50 percent in some states, compared to two years ago.\u00a0\u00a0 Furthermore, the recipients have seen their weekly benefit payment provided by the EUC program cut under sequestration.\nEven with the progress our economy has seen since the depths of the recession, there are still 1.3 million fewer jobs today than when the recession started six years ago. Additionally, approximately 4 million Americans are considered long-term unemployed, and have been looking for work for more than six months. Now is certainly not the time to further decimate vital federal assistance to workers who have lost their job through no fault of their own and who must actively seek work in order to be eligible for unemployment benefits.\u00a0\u00a0 We therefore strongly urge you to immediately bring up a one-year extension of the current EUC program.\nThank you for your attention to this critical issue.\nSincerely,\nSander Levin  \n\tBarbara Lee  \n\tLloyd Doggett  \n\tSteny H. Hoyer  \n\tJames Clyburn  \n\tXavier Becerra  \n\tJoe Crowley  \n\tSteve Israel  \n\tRobert Andrews  \n\tKaren Bass  \n\tJoyce Beatty  \n\tAmi Bera  \n\tSanford Bishop, Jr.  \n\tTim Bishop  \n\tEarl Blumenauer  \n\tSuzanne Bonamici  \n\tRobert A. Brady  \n\tBruce Braley  \n\tCorrine Brown  \n\tJulia Brownley  \n\tCheri Bustos  \n\tG.K. Butterfield  \n\tLois Capps  \n\tMichael Capuano  \n\tTony Cardenas  \n\tMatt Cartwright  \n\tJoaquin Castro  \n\tKathy Castor  \n\tDonna M. Christensen  \n\tJudy Chu  \n\tDavid Cicilline  \n\tYvette Clarke  \n\tWm. Lacy Clay  \n\tEmanuel Cleaver  \n\tSteve Cohen  \n\tJohn Conyers, Jr.  \n\tGerald E. Connolly  \n\tJim Cooper  \n\tJim Costa  \n\tJoe Courtney  \n\tElijah E. Cummings  \n\tDanny K. Davis  \n\tPeter DeFazio  \n\tDiana DeGette  \n\tJohn Delaney  \n\tRosa L. DeLauro  \n\tSuzan DelBene  \n\tTed Deutch  \n\tJohn D. Dingell  \n\tDonna F. Edwards  \n\tKeith Ellison  \n\tEliot L. Engel  \n\tWilliam Enyart  \n\tAnna Eshoo  \n\tElizabeth H. Esty  \n\tSam Farr  \n\tChaka Fattah  \n\tBill Foster  \n\tLois Frankel  \n\tMarcia L. Fudge  \n\tJohn Garamendi  \n\tAlan Grayson  \n\tAl Green  \n\tGene Green  \n\tRaul Grijalva  \n\tMichelle Lujan Grisham  \n\tLuis V. Gutierrez  \n\tJanice Hahn  \n\tColleen Hanabusa  \n\tAlcee L. Hastings  \n\tDenny Heck  \n\tBrian Higgins  \n\tJames A. Himes  \n\tRuben Hinojosa  \n\tRush Holt  \n\tMichael Honda  \n\tSteven Horsford  \n\tJared Huffman  \n\tHakeem S. Jeffries  \n\tHenry C. \"Hank\" Johnson, Jr.  \n\tMarcy Kaptur  \n\tWilliam Keating  \n\tJoseph P. Kennedy, III  \n\tDaniel Kildee  \n\tDerek Kilmer  \n\tRon Kind  \n\tAnn Kirkpatrick  \n\tAnn McLane Kuster  \n\tJames R. Langevin  \n\tJohn B. Larson  \n\tSheila Jackson Lee  \n\tJohn Lewis  \n\tDaniel Lipinski  \n\tDave Loebsack  \n\tAlan S. Lowenthal  \n\tNita Lowey  \n\tBen Ray Lujan  \n\tStephen F. Lynch  \n\tCarolyn Maloney  \n\tCarolyn McCarthy  \n\tBetty McCollum  \n\tJim McDermott  \n\tJames P. McGovern  \n\tPatrick E. Murphy  \n\tGrace F. Napolitano  \n\tGloria Negrete McLeod  \n\tRick Nolan  \n\tGregory Meeks  \n\tMichael H. Michaud  \n\tGeorge Miller  \n\tGwen Moore  \n\tJames P. Moran  \n\tJerrold Nadler  \n\tRichard E. Neal  \n\tEleanor Holmes Norton  \n\tBeto O\u2019Rourke  \n\tFrank Pallone, Jr.  \n\tBill Pascrell, Jr.  \n\tEd Pastor  \n\tDonald M. Payne, Jr.  \n\tEd Perlmutter  \n\tGary C. Peters  \n\tChellie Pingree  \n\tPedro R. Pierluisi  \n\tMark Pocan  \n\tDavid Price  \n\tMike Quigley  \n\tNick J. Rahall  \n\tCharles Rangel  \n\tCedric Richmond  \n\tLucille Roybal-Allard  \n\tC.A. Dutch Ruppersberger  \n\tBobby L. Rush  \n\tTim Ryan  \n\tLinda T. Sanchez  \n\tLoretta Sanchez  \n\tJohn P. Sarbanes  \n\tJanice D. Schakowsky  \n\tAdam B. Schiff  \n\tAllyson Y. Schwartz  \n\tBrad Sherman  \n\tRobert C. \"Bobby\" Scott  \n\tJose E. Serrano  \n\tTerri A. Sewell  \n\tCarol Shea-Porter  \n\tKyrsten Sinema  \n\tAlbio Sires  \n\tLouise M. Slaughter  \n\tJackie Speier  \n\tMark Takano  \n\tBennie Thompson  \n\tMike Thompson  \n\tJohn F. Tierney  \n\tDina Titus  \n\tPaul\u00a0 Tonko  \n\tMarc Veasey  \n\tNydia Vel\u00e1zquez  \n\tChris Van Hollen  \n\tJuan Vargas  \n\tDebbie Wasserman Schultz  \n\tMaxine Waters  \n\tMelvin L. Watt  \n\tHenry A. Waxman  \n\tPeter Welch  \n\tFrederica Wilson  \n\tJohn A. Yarmuth\n\u00a0\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-calls-governor-christie-use-aca-funds-outreach-and-education-new-jersey", "Pallone Calls on Governor Christie to Use ACA Funds for Outreach and Education in New Jersey", "2013-12-10", "2013", "2013-12", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) sent a letter to Governor Chris Christie (R-NJ), calling on him to immediately use the funds from the federal grant awarded to New Jersey under Section 1311 of the Affordable Care Act. Congressman Pallone called on Governor Christie to use the approximately $7.5 million that the state was awarded for outreach and education on the ACA and to facilitate enrollment in the new health care marketplace that opened on October 1, 2013. These measures could help more New Jerseyans get access to the coverage they need at no cost to the state.\nBelow is the full text of the letter:\nDecember 10, 2013\nGovernor Chris Christie\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\nOffice of the Governor\nPO Box 001\nTrenton, NJ 08625\n\u00a0\nDear Governor Christie:\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 I am writing to urge you to immediately re-scope the federal grant awarded to New Jersey under Section 1311 of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), which would allow the state to help educate New Jerseyans about the ACA, as well as facilitate enrollment in the new health care marketplace that opened on October 1, 2013.\nIt is critical that you\u00a0 take action on behalf of New Jersey families to find appropriate ways to spend the approximately $7.5 million that the State has access to. While this money may not be enough to reach each and every family in need, it can be a great start in telling New Jerseyans about their health coverage options.\u00a0\nThere is a clear need for outreach and education in New Jersey, and these funds can facilitate this at no cost to the state.\u00a0 In addition, any further delay in this outreach could cost many families the ability to get coverage by January 1, 2014.\u00a0 While the federal marketplace enrollment period will end on March 31, 2014, families must sign up by December 23, 2013 in order to get coverage on the first day of the New Year. \u00a0\nNew Jersey families deserve their health care needs to be met, and not\u00a0using these grant funds endangers the opportunity for New Jerseyans to benefit from affordable, quality health insurance that is available as a result of the ACA.\u00a0\nThe ACA is the law of the land, and every day it is helping more people get access to the coverage they need \u2013 some for the first time.\u00a0 I urge you to spend this grant funding so that New Jersey families can realize the full benefits of the law.\u00a0\n\u00a0\n\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 Sincerely,\n\u00a0\n\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 FRANK PALLONE, JR.\n\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 Member of Congress\n\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 6th District of New Jersey\n\u00a0\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://sires.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-sires-statement-on-former-south-african-president-nelson", "Congressman Sires\u2019 Statement on former South African President Nelson Mandela", "2013-12-10", "2013", "2013-12", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Albio Sires", "S001165", "sires.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "(Washington, D.C.)- Today, Congressman Sires released the following statement on the passing of former South African President Nelson Mandela:\n\u00a0\n\u201cToday, I mourn along with those around the globe on the passing of Nelson Mandela,\u201d Congressman Sires said in a statement. \u201cAs we live on we should continue to be reminded of Madiba\u2019s legacy of freedom and equality not just today but every day.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-calls-attention-sudden-cardiac-arrest-children-and-young-adults", "Pallone Calls Attention to Sudden Cardiac Arrest in Children and Young Adults", "2013-12-09", "2013", "2013-12", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.\u2014Today Congressman Frank Pallone Jr. (NJ-06) visited South Plainfield Middle School in South Plainfield, NJ to increase awareness among parents, schools and health professionals of pediatric cardiomyopathy and the risk of sudden cardiac arrest Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) that many children face. He also discussed the Cardiomyopathy Health Education, Awareness, Risk Assessment and Training in the Schools (HEARTS) Act, which Congressman Pallone reintroduced in February 2013.\n\u201cCardiomyopathy is a silent killer, and unfortunately it has struck right here in central New Jersey,\u201d said Congressman Pallone. \u201cRaising awareness is the first step and the HEARTS Act can help prevent these tragic deaths.\u201d\nCongressman Pallone was joined by Assemblyman Patrick Diegnan (D-NJ), Lisa Yue, founding executive director of the Children\u2019s Cardiomyopathy Foundation, which she and her husband established after losing two children to cardiomyopathy.\u00a0 Lisa Salberg, CEO and Founder of the Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy Association was also in attendance along with the Torok family, whose daughter, Anna, lives with dilated cardiomyopathy.\nSCA is the leading cause of death on school property.\u00a0 The HEARTS Act was introduced following the death of two young student athletes in Middlesex County.\u00a0 The Congressman attended a game honoring the two students in September 2010 in Edison called \u201cHelmets for Hearts.\u201d The event also helped spread the word about cardiomyopathy, while encouraging families to get their children tested. \u00a0\nThe bill would require the Secretary of Health and Human Services to coordinate with the Centers for Disease Control, and national patient advocacy and health professional organizations to develop educational materials and resources on cardiomyopathy for public awareness and distribute materials to schools, teachers and parents.\u00a0 It also will encourage schools to be aware of and prepared for a cardiac emergency.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=3", "Senators Menendez, Booker Announce More Than $1.5 Million for New Jersey Highway Safety", "2013-12-09", "2013", "2013-12", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Cory Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "December 9, 2013\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWashington, DC \u2013 U.S. Senators Robert Menendez (D-NJ) and Cory Booker (D-NJ) today announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has awarded $1,568,292 to the New Jersey Division of Highway Traffic Safety.\nThese grants can be used to implement systems to promote, track, and enforce seatbelt and child seat safety programs, ignition interlock and impaired driving prevention programs, motorcyclist safety programs, and efforts to improve New Jersey's traffic safety information systems. The funding will be distributed to programs designed to reduce highway deaths and injuries from drunk driving, unsafe operation of a motorcycle, and riding unrestrained or improperly restrained in motor vehicles.\n\u201cThese federal funds will help make New Jersey\u2019s roads safer for drivers, passengers, pedestrians and cyclists,\u201d said senator Menendez. \u201cNew Jersey\u2019s economy depends on reliable means of transportation, and each of these grants will help strengthen our transportation system while safeguarding our loved ones by putting an end to preventable and senseless roadway incidents.\u201d\n\u201cThese federal grants will enable important investments that will make New Jerseyans safer, improving the vital arteries necessary for doing business and supporting jobs throughout the state,\" Sen. Booker said.\nThe funding was awarded through the Department of Transportation\u2019s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The New Jersey Division of Highway Traffic Safety received:\n \n$938,546.75 for Impaired Driving Countermeasures.\n$342,160.57 to support Occupant Protection based on identified problems.\n$257,976.67 in Traffic Safety Information Systems grants.\n$29,608.11 to Support Motorcyclist Safety based on identified problems.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://payne.house.gov/press-release/payne-statement-passing-president-nelson-mandela", "Payne Statement on the Passing of President Nelson Mandela", "2013-12-05", "2013", "2013-12", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Donald Payne", "P000604", "payne.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Newark, N.J. \u2013 Today, Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. (NJ-10) released the following statement after the passing of Nelson Mandela:\n\u201cNelson Mandela was a hero for social justice and a model of leadership for me and leaders around the globe.\u00a0 Born during the years of apartheid, he was a resilient democratic leader, peacemaker, and inspiring fighter for racial equality. \u00a0 President Mandela never let his 27 years in prison deter him from doing what he knew was right by ending apartheid and bringing democracy to the country that he loved.\n\u201cEven in the face of extreme adversity, he has proven that with a noble cause and an eternal will, one person can change the tide of oppression, an entire country, and the world. Whether it was during his 27 years in prison or during his time as President of South Africa, he has demonstrated exceptional strength, supreme moral courage, and principled forgiveness.\u00a0 People all around the world suffering from oppression, hatred, and discrimination will forever be grateful for the incredible leadership of Nelson Mandela.\n\u201cAlthough I did not have a chance to meet President Mandela, he has always been a role model to me and likewise was an inspiration to my father.\u00a0 I am thankful for his tireless years of service, and for being an example of true leadership. My condolences and prayers go out to the Mandela family and to the country of South Africa as the entire world mourns such a great loss.\u00a0 Although Madiba is gone, his work and the imprint he made on this world will never be forgotten.\u201d\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-recognizes-22nd-anniversary-nagorno-karabakhs-movement-towards-liberation", "Pallone Recognizes 22nd Anniversary of Nagorno Karabakh's Movement Towards Liberation", "2013-12-04", "2013", "2013-12", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, DC\u00a0\u2014 On Tuesday, December 03, 2013, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) recognized the Nagorno Karabakh Republic\u2019s movement towards liberation.\u00a0 An event in the Capitol building was organized by the Congressional Armenia Issues Caucus, of which Congressman Pallone is the co-chair and founder, in cooperation with the Armenian Embassy, the Nagorno Karabakh Republic office in the U.S. and Armenian-American organizations to mark the anniversary.\u00a0 It has been 22 years since the referendum in Nagorno Karbakh took place and the nation adopted its constitution.\nCongressman Pallone welcomed Nagorno Karabakh Republic Speaker Ashot Ghoulian as the event\u2019s keynote speaker, along with Armenian Ambassador Tatoul Markarian. Nagorno Karabakh\u2019s representative Robert Avetisyan, who helped organize the event, was also in attendance. The leaders discussed the ongoing commitment to democracy and freedom in Nagorno Karabakh, and the importance of U.S. support in the region.\n\u201cFor the past 22 years, Nagorno Karabakh has firmly demonstrated its commitment to democratic values and has proven to be a reliable partner to the international community,\u201d said Congressman Pallone. \u201cTonight\u2019s event is an opportunity to commend Nagorno Karabakh\u2019s meaningful contribution to regional stability and continued pursuit of restoring a war torn economy, strengthening a blossoming democracy, and promoting continued development and prosperity of an independent republic.\u201d\nIn 1991, as Armenia and Azerbaijan followed most soviet states in succession from the USSR, Nagorno Karabakh also voted to succeed. In an internationally monitored referendum, the Nagorno Karabakh population overwhelmingly voted to establish an independent Nagorno Karabakh Republic, currently known as NKR. However, the territory is still not recognized internationally.\nCongressman Pallone has called for NKR\u2019s international recognition and official separation from Azerbaijan as a solution to the regional conflict and continued violence against the people of Nagorno Karabakh. He has also advocated for\u00a0 U.S. foreign aid to be provided to NKR in support for important projects that help rebuild infrastructure and public works programs.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-calls-boost-support-hunger-and-nutrition-programs-federal-budget-elijah%E2%80%99s", "Pallone Calls for Boost in Support of Hunger and Nutrition Programs in Federal Budget at Elijah\u2019s Promise Soup Kitchen, New Brunswick", "2013-12-02", "2013", "2013-12", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "New Brunswick, NJ \u2013 On Monday, December 2nd, 2013 at 10:30 a.m., Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) visited Elijah\u2019s Promise in New Brunswick, New Jersey, decrying cuts to the Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP, or food stamps) on the heels of House Republicans\u2019 latest effort to disable the program.\u00a0 In September, Republican leadership in the House of Representatives narrowly passed a bill to cut roughly $39 billion from the SNAP program over the next decade.\nPallone was joined by New Brunswick Mayor Jim Cahill, Assemblyman Upendra Chivukula, Lisanne Finston, Executive Director, Elijah\u2019s Promise and Adele LaTourette, Director, New Jersey Anti-Hunger Coalition.\u00a0\n\u201cIn the wealthiest country in the world, it is unacceptable to allow our children and families to go hungry,\u201d said Congressman Pallone. \u201cSNAP is our nation\u2019s most important anti-hunger safety net program and is one of the most effective and efficient federal programs, with one of the lowest \u2013 if not the lowest \u2013 rates of fraud, waste and abuse. The Republicans\u2019 never ending effort to dismantle this program is cruel and does not reflect our values as a nation.\u201d\n\"New Brunswick works in partnership with its residents on a mission to lead a healthy lifestyle, and it is critical to the overall health of a community to ensure that all its residents have access to nutritious and affordable foods,\" New Brunswick Mayor James Cahill said.\u00a0 \"Instead of building a sustainable and just food system that provides the hungry and less fortunate with access to fresh, quality food - because all people should have access to good food \u2013 the additional $39 billion cut in SNAP funding is contrary all that a caring nation should stand for.\"\n\"Freedom from hunger needs to be an inalienable right of every American and it should be incumbent upon the federal government to support programs for millions in our nation who are struggling to meet their basic needs, especially in tough economic times. The $39 billion in cuts come at an especially difficult time for New Jersey, where we have experienced a sharp increase in poverty in the past few years with more than 2 million, or 25 percent of our state's population reported to be living in poverty,\u00a0according to a report released in September. I support Congressman Pallone and House Democrats in calling for a proposal to eliminate the GOP cuts to SNAP. It is the right thing to do and is in keeping with our principles as a humane society and\u00a0a responsible government, said\" Assembly Deputy Speaker Upendra J. Chivukula (D-Somerset\\Middlesex).\u00a0\nAccording to the New Jersey Anti-Hunger Coalition, 394,240 children in New Jersey were living in food insecure households in 2011.\u00a0 More than 15% of Americans, including 22% of all American children, live in poverty.\u00a0 SNAP provides a basic nutrition benefit to many low-income Americans, including senior citizens and children, and has largely eliminated severe hunger and malnutrition in the United States.\u00a0 The Republican effort to further cut SNAP would mean more Americans, including children, will go hungry and malnourished, and an influx of pressure would be put on our community soup kitchens.\u00a0 The $39 billion in SNAP cuts would come on top of $5 billion in across-the-board SNAP benefit cuts that already went into effect on November 1st due to an expiring provision included in the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act that provided a modest boost in SNAP benefits.\u00a0 Pallone and House Democrats are pushing for a proposal to eliminate the GOP cuts to SNAP as the House and Senate work on a compromise version of the Farm Bill, which funds the program.\nElijah\u2019s Promise is a community soup kitchen, culinary arts school, catering business, and pay-as-you-can caf\u00e9 that connects low-income individuals and families with social and health services. Elijah\u2019s Promise serves 100,000 meals per year and trains previously unskilled workers for careers in the food service industry.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-remembers-jfk%E2%80%99s-legacy-maple-place-middle-school", "Pallone Remembers JFK\u2019s Legacy at Maple Place Middle School", "2013-11-22", "2013", "2013-11", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.\u2014Today, November 22, 2013, Congressman Frank Pallone Jr. (NJ-06) spoke at the Maple Place Middle School in Oceanport, NJ to mark the 50th anniversary of JFK's assassination.\u00a0 Pallone was greeted by honor students, after which he read from Kennedy\u2019s inaugural address in the school\u2019s cafeteria.\u00a0 Pallone talked to seventh and eighth grade students about the 50th anniversary of JFK's death and discussed his own memory of the assassination as a seventh grader at the time.\u00a0\nPallone also shared his experiences of having attended Kennedy\u2019s funeral in Washington, D.C. in 1963.\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cPresident Kennedy was an incredible inspiration for so many Americans and his death was a tragedy that changed the nation, which is still felt today,\u201d said Pallone.\u00a0 \u201cHis message of service inspired me to give back to my country and it is a message that should be passed to new generations of Americans.\u00a0 I will never forget my experience attending President Kennedy\u2019s funeral. I was in seventh grade, just like the students at Maple Place Middle School and today was a good opportunity to share my memories of President Kennedy and encourage these young people honor his legacy by engaging in public service.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://payne.house.gov/press-release/payne-pushes-fema-make-social-media-data-more-readable-first-responders-during-times", "Payne Pushes FEMA to Make Social Media Data More Readable for First Responders During Times of Disaster", "2013-11-21", "2013", "2013-11", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Donald Payne", "P000604", "payne.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Representative Donald M. Payne, Jr. (NJ-10), sent a bipartisan letter to Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator W. Craig Fugate urging FEMA to adopt open data standards to enhance social media alerts in a disaster situation.\nIn a June 4, 2013, Homeland Security Subcommittee on Emergency Preparedness, Response, and Communications, on which Rep. Payne, Jr. serves as Ranking Member, the committee examined the role of social media in an emergency situation and lessons learned from using social media during Hurricane Sandy. Witnesses, including Sgt. Greg Kierce, Jersey City Director of Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Security, noted certain obstacles undermining the dissemination of vital, life-saving information.\u00a0 Of particular note, the hearing revealed that a significant amount of government data is only available via PDF or another unusable format for emergency personnel.\n\u201cSocial media has revolutionized the way we respond to disasters,\u201d said Rep. Payne, Jr. \u201cAfter Hurricane Sandy, survivors used social media to reconnect with loved ones; to share information about which gas stations, grocery stores, and pharmacies were open; and to coordinate volunteer efforts.\u00a0 Big data technologies can be used to facilitate more effective, efficient emergency response, but we need to make sure that the information made available is usable.\u00a0 That\u2019s why it is critical FEMA provide our emergency responders the tools and life-saving information in a readable format so that they can respond more appropriately and effectively in times of emergency.\u201d\n\u201cFrom the devastating tornados this past weekend in Illinois to Superstorm Sandy, we know the game changing power of social media from Twitter and Facebook to mobile applications to Google docs when disaster strikes,\u201d said Swalwell. \u201cSocial media alerts can lead people to safety before a storm strikes and direct them to important resources like food and shelter after the event. I want to ensure that FEMA follows through on implementing the Executive Order in a timely fashion so their data is open and accessible for those who need it in a catastrophic emergency situation.\u201d\nAn Executive Order issued in May 2013 by the Obama Administration directed government agencies to provide newly generated data in a publicly accessible machine readable and open format like CSV, SCML, and JSON. In turn, emergency managers, first-responders, volunteer organizations will have timely access to life-saving information, and innovators can take advantage of the data to develop new products, like mobile applications, that can assist in an emergency situation.\u00a0 In the letter, Rep. Payne, Jr. urged FEMA to comply with the Executive Order and provide an update on FEMA\u2019s progress in collecting and creating data in an open format that is more readily available to first responders.\nThe letter was signed by Subcommittee Chairwoman Susan Brooks (R-IN) and Reps. Yvette Clarke (D-NY), Eric Swalwell (D-CA), Peter King (R-NY), and Steven Palazzo (R-MS).\u00a0\nA link to the letter can be found here.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/subcommittee-health-reviews-pallone-bill-sudden-unexpected-death-early-life", "Subcommittee on Health Reviews Pallone Bill on Sudden Unexpected Death in Early Life", "2013-11-20", "2013", "2013-11", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.\u2014Today, November 20, 2013 at 2:00 p.m., the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health held a hearing at which H.R. 669, the \u201cSudden Unexpected Death Data Enhancement and Awareness Act,\u201d was reviewed. The bill, introduced by Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06), the senior Democrat on the Subcommittee, would amend the Public Health Service Act to help better understand and enhance awareness about unexpected sudden death in early life. Laura Crandall, Executive Director of Advocacy for the CJ Foundation for SIDS (Sudden Infant Death) and Program Director & Founder of the SUDC (Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood) Program testified in support of the legislation.\nBelow is the partial text of the statement Congressman Pallone submitted at the hearing:\n\u00a0\nRanking Member Frank Pallone, Jr.\nHouse Energy and Commerce Committee\nSubcommittee on Health\nHearing on \u201cExamining Public Health Legislation to Help Local Communities\u201d\n\u00a0\nOpening Statement\nNovember 20, 2013\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cThank you, Chairman Pitts, and thank you to our witnesses for being here today; a very special welcome to Laura Crandall from New Jersey.\u00a0 She and I have worked together for many years on my bill that is before the Subcommittee today.\u00a0 Your strength and determination is commendable. \u00a0\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 I am happy that the Subcommittee is having this hearing and moving forward with several public health bills.\u00a0 It is an important function of this Subcommittee to examine public health priorities and to move legislation to promote and protect the public health.\u00a0 I would like to say a few words about each of the seven bills before us today.\n\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 Firstly, I am particularly pleased that we will be examining a bill that I introduced, H.R. 669, the Sudden Unexpected Death Data Enhancement and Awareness Act.\u00a0 Stillbirth and sudden unexpected infant death affect tens of thousands of families every year, according to data from CDC, and sudden infant death syndrome is the leading cause of death for infants up to 12 months old.\u00a0 However, we currently lack the comprehensive, high-quality data we need to help better understand this problem.\u00a0 My bill seeks to enhance CDC\u2019s activities in this area and would expand and standardize surveillance and data collection for stillbirth and sudden unexpected infant death and develop protocols and training for medical examiners for investigating these tragic deaths.\u00a0 I would like to submit for the record endorsement letters from 24 organizations, including the CJ Foundation, the American Academy of Pediatrics, and First Candle\u2026\u201d\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-announces-more-16-million-bayshore-regional-sewerage-authority-repairs", "Pallone Announces More than $16 Million for Bayshore Regional Sewerage Authority Repairs", "2013-11-18", "2013", "2013-11", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) announced an additional $16,596,224 in Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) funding to the Bayshore Regional Sewerage Authority (BRSA) to repair Superstorm Sandy damage to two sewerage incinerators at the facility\u2014the Dorr Oliver Incinerator and the Niro Incinerator.\n\u201cSandy\u00a0severely damaged critical components of infrastructure at BRSA, and this grant will help make necessary repairs still affecting the Bayshore\u2019s sewerage system, such as rebuilding the entire incinerator with refractory firebrick and repairing the fire sprinkler system,\u201d said Pallone. \u00a0\nBRSA serves Hazlet,\u00a0Union\u00a0Beach, Holmdel,\u00a0Aberdeen, Keansburg, Keyport, Matawan and parts of Marlboro.\u00a0 BRSA suffered extensive flooding as a result of\u00a0Sandy\u00a0causing damages of $20 million.\u00a0 This grant to BRSA is awarded in addition to two FEMA grants, totaling $3.4 million, announced earlier this year, to repair damage done to the raw sewage main pump station and three surrounding facilities.\nPallone visited BRSA in August to discuss the damage sustained during Sandy and the critical repair work necessary to repair this important infrastructure.\u00a0 Hurricane Sandy flooded the 24-acre facility with up to 3 feet of water causing.\u00a0 The Authority lost electric power for seven days, phone service for two weeks and internet for three weeks.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-applauds-senate-passage-bill-improve-safety-prescription-drug-compounding-and", "Pallone Applauds Senate Passage of Bill to Improve Safety of Prescription Drug Compounding and Drug Supply Chain", "2013-11-18", "2013", "2013-11", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, DC\u00a0\u2014 Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) praised the U. S. Senate for passing a bill that will help to ensure the safety of compounded drugs and our nation\u2019s pharmaceutical supply chain.\u00a0 Pallone, the top Democrat on the House Energy and Commerce Health Subcommittee and a leader on this issue, was a coauthor of the bipartisan Drug Quality and Security Act, H.R. 3204 that passed the House in September 2013.\u00a0 The bill now goes to the President for his signature.\u00a0\n\u201cI commend the Senate for passing this bill and taking a critical step forward in securing the safety of our drug supply chain by creating a product tracing system and improving the quality of compounded drugs, which unfortunately have operated in the past under a faulty law.\u00a0 This legislation will allow FDA to require higher standards for certain drugs and better protect the public health,\u201d said Pallone.\u00a0 \u201cI look forward to the President quickly signing this important bill into law.\u201d\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-calls-secretary-commerce-include-sikh-community-census-reporting", "Pallone Calls on Secretary of Commerce to Include Sikh Community in Census Reporting", "2013-11-15", "2013", "2013-11", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) sent a letter to the Honorable Penny Pritzker, Secretary of Commerce, to formally request that the U.S. Census Bureau act to include the American Sikh community in census reporting data.\u00a0 The Census Bureau, which falls under the Department of Commerce, currently does not collect information on Sikh population numbers in the United States.\nPallone asked that the Bureau introduce a separate code on official forms for those who write in \u201cSikh\u201d as their ethnicity, which would allow the Bureau to develop a more accurate number as to how many Sikhs are living in the United States. Taking these steps to collect official population information would allow the federal government to better consider the needs of the Sikh community when allocating resources and facilitate proper recognition of the community\u2019s contributions to the country.\nBelow is the full text of the letter:\n\u00a0\nNovember 15, 2013\nThe Honorable Penny Pritzker\nSecretary of Commerce\nU.S. Department of Commerce  \n\t1401 Constitution Ave., NW  \n\tWashington, D.C. 20230\n\u00a0\nDear Secretary Pritzker:\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 I am writing to request that the Department of Commerce and the U.S. Census Bureau take action to include the Sikh community in the census reporting data.\u00a0 I specifically ask that the Census Bureau introduce a separate code for those who write in \u201cSikh,\u201d on census forms to ensure that the Sikh community can be correctly enumerated.\nThe census is used to make decisions about what community services to provide, to distribute more than $400 billion in federal funds to local, state and tribal governments each year and to inform a great number of different government decisions.\u00a0 The information provided by the census is vital and can be particularly important for minority communities.\u00a0 The census data allows the government, businesses and researchers to study the trends and patterns of growth and to better understand the needs of the communities.\nCurrently, Sikhs in the United States need to mark themselves as \u201cOther Asian\u201d and fill in the blank as \u201cSikh\u201d in order to provide accurate information.\u00a0 However, that response is automatically coded by the Census Bureau as \u201cAsian Indian.\u201d\u00a0 There is no way to then disaggregate the data and develop an accurate number as to how many Sikhs there are in the United States.\u00a0\nThis leads to a host of problems.\u00a0 Unfortunately, Sikhs are a minority community that has faced a lack of recognition by the government which has contributed to a lack of understanding among the general public.\u00a0 Following 9/11, Sikhs were the target of hate crimes because of this lack of understanding.\u00a0 Today many Sikhs continue to face racial profiling and harassment solely based on their appearance.\u00a0 It is difficult to ensure that the government is promoting awareness, addressing discrimination and providing assistance when we do not have official population information about the community.\nLastly, I understand that federal law prohibits the Census Bureau from asking for religious affiliation on a mandatory basis.\u00a0 However, many Sikhs believe it is important that they are able to list \u201cSikh\u201d as their ethnicity and would like to do so voluntary while having it counted.\u00a0 There would not need to be any requirement that someone lists their religion.\nSikhs make many important contributions to the United States and to our local communities.\u00a0 It is time that the government acted to ensure that we have the information necessary to promote tolerance and fair treatment under the law.\nThank you for considering my request.\n\u00a0\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Sincerely,\n\u00a0\n\u00a0\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 FRANK PALLONE, JR.\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Member of Congress\n\u00a0\nCc:\u00a0 John H. Thompson, Director, U.S. Census Bureau", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://sires.house.gov/importance-investing-safe-infrastructure-pedestrians-and-bicyclists", "Investing in Safe Infrastructure for Pedestrians and Bicyclists", "2013-11-15", "2013", "2013-11", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Albio Sires", "S001165", "sires.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "STATEMENT FOR THE RECORD REPRESENTATIVE ALBIO SIRES NOVEMBER 15, 2013\n\u00a0\nMr. Speaker, I rise today to talk about the importance of investing in safe infrastructure for pedestrians and bicyclists.\u00a0 I recently read a report presented by the Sierra Club and League of American Bicyclists, entitled The New Majority: Pedaling towards Equity, and as someone who rides a bicycle regularly, I think there\u2019s a lot to be excited about in their findings.\u00a0\nAcross the nation, bike ridership is up\u2014and the numbers are impressive. From 2001 to 2009 there has been a 22% increase in bike trips among white Americans, 50% for Hispanics, 80% for Asian Americans, 100% among African Americans, and there\u2019s plenty of room for those numbers to grow.\nUnfortunately, concerns about access to safe infrastructure remains a barrier for many would-be riders.\u00a0 I believe we must do more in Congress to address that.\u00a0 It\u2019s a simple fact that when we invest in complete streets with safe pedestrian and bicycle pathways, we create communities where businesses want to invest and families want to live. That is why I plan to introduce a bill in the coming weeks that will create innovative new ways of financing non-motorized infrastructure projects. \u00a0I am hopeful that this legislation will attract bipartisan support here in Congress, so that Americans of all age and background can enjoy equitable access to safe roads.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://payne.house.gov/press-release/payne-presses-administrator-pistole-tsa-spot-program-has-led-racial-profiling-newark", "Payne Presses Administrator Pistole on TSA SPOT Program that  Has Led to Racial Profiling at Newark Liberty International Airport", "2013-11-14", "2013", "2013-11", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Donald Payne", "P000604", "payne.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, in the House Homeland Security Subcommittee on Transportation Security, Rep. Donald M. Payne, Jr. (NJ-10) pressed TSA Administrator John Pistole on a recent Government Accountability Office (GAO) report that concludes that the TSA Screening of Passengers by Observation Techniques (SPOT) program, a $878 million endeavor, has been ineffective in identifying terrorists, and may have even led to racial profiling, including at Newark Liberty International Airport.\u00a0\nCongressman Payne, Jr. specifically asked Administrator Pistole about a Behavior Detection Officer (BDO) manager at Newark Liberty International Airport who was fired for making racial comments and giving inappropriate direction to other BDOs regarding the profiling of passengers.\u00a0 Rep. Payne expressed concern about the nature of the program and the fact that BDOs were encouraged to identify and refer more passengers to be promoted.\u00a0 Administrator Pistole admitted that there was a perception amongst BDOs that the more referrals they made, the more likely they would be promoted.\u00a0 Payne said it harkens back to a time in a state like New Jersey that has had its fair share of issues with racial profiling in the past. Watch the exchange here.\nPayne:\u00a0 The GAO report released yesterday cites to an incident where a BDO manager at Newark Liberty International Airport, which is my home airport, gave inappropriate direction to Behavior Detection Officers regarding profiling of passengers and made racial comments.\u00a0 It is my understanding that this BDO [manager] has been fired.\u00a0 It has also been brought to my attention that BDOs have been promoted based on the number of referrals they made, which has encouraged BDOs to racially profile to increase their referral rate. What degree of confidence do you have that no other BDO managers are encouraging or directing racial profiling through the SPOT program?\u00a0\nPistole:\u00a0\u00a0 One of the lessons learned from these multiple reviews that have been done is we could have done a better job in training and retraining and ensuring that there is no notion of profiling taking place. In fact as part of our retraining that we have done since these [GAO] reports have been done is required each BDO to take a pledge against profiling which I have and can share with the subcommittee. Every BDO other than those who are out on extended leave have taken that pledge to ensure that they understand that profiling has absolutely no place in a BDO\u2019s work. It\u2019s not good law enforcement.\u00a0 It\u2019s not good security work. And it\u2019s unconstitutional. So anyone that is found to have been profiling will be investigated and dealt with appropriately\u2026.Any violation of somebody\u2019s civil rights and civil liberties is a significant issue for [TSA] and just undermines the entire program so that\u2019s why it won\u2019t be tolerated.\nPayne:\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0I hope it is not a culture that has been created because I am sensitive to this issue. Being from a state where my uncle is the author of the racial profiling bill in New Jersey, we have had many instances where this problem is an issue.\u00a0 So to see this here harkens back to issues that we have been dealing with in New Jersey, and now this at Newark Airport is troubling.\n***\nPayne: \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0[What about] the point of BDOs being promoted on a number of referrals?\u00a0\nPistole:\u00a0 I think there was a perception among some BDOs\u2026that BDOs may be promoted more readily if they made a higher number of referrals. That is not the case, so we have gone back to retrain and clarify because we don\u2019t want BDOs referring because they think they\u2019ll be more readily promoted.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://payne.house.gov/press-release/payne-reacts-president-obama%E2%80%99s-decision-allow-individuals-stay-current-health-care", "Payne Reacts to President Obama\u2019s Decision to Allow Individuals to Stay on Current Health Care Plans Through 2014", "2013-11-14", "2013", "2013-11", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Donald Payne", "P000604", "payne.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. (NJ-10) released the following statement in reaction to President Obama\u2019s decision to allow individuals to stay on their current health care plans through 2014:\n\u201cUnfortunately this was the only choice the President had due to the problems with the health care website.\u00a0 Even if the website is fixed by the end of November, that only leaves people with a month to enroll. We cannot leave people out in the cold without health care, and it only seems fair for those who have been unable to get onto the website and enroll in a health care plan.\u00a0\n\u201cDespite website problems, I would encourage people to continue to enroll in the exchanges and compare their current insurance plans to the ones being offered through the marketplaces.\u00a0 Once people examine their current plans and see what their insurance covers, or doesn\u2019t cover, they will realize that the Health Care Exchanges provide more comprehensive, preventive coverage that will likely suit their needs at a lower cost.\n\u201cIn the coming months, I hope that my Republican colleagues will stop their selfish political motivations and end their obsession with sabotaging the Affordable Care Act. Millions of Americans are counting on this law to end the very predatory practices by insurance companies that have led to the canceling of insurance plans. They don\u2019t need their Members of Congress actively betting against a law that will provide access to quality, affordable care.\u201d\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://payne.house.gov/video/payne-urges-republicans-help-improve-aca-rather-work-ensure-it-fails", "Payne Urges Republicans to Help Improve ACA Rather Than Work to Ensure It Fails", "2013-11-14", "2013", "2013-11", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Donald Payne", "P000604", "payne.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. (NJ-10) took to the House Floor to urge his Republican colleagues to work with Democrats to make the Affordable Care Act a success, rather than work overtime to see that it fails. Rep. Payne, Jr. said that millions of Americans could benefit from access to affordable, quality care, but instead of working to improve the law, Republicans are purely motivated by selfish political agendas and have become obsessed with making the law fail.\u00a0\nRep. Payne, Jr. said:\n\u201cFor millions of Americans, the dream of access to affordable health care is becoming a reality thanks to the Affordable Care Act. Over 2.2 million New Jerseyans have already gained access to free preventative care. Insurance premiums will lower by 20 percent in 2014. Seniors on Medicare already received a 50 percent savings on their prescription drugs.\u00a0 And more than 70,000 young adults in New Jersey are able to see a doctor because they can stay on their parents\u2019 insurance.\n\u201cSadly though, out of purely selfish political motivation, my Republican colleagues are obsessed with making this bill fail and are working overtime to take away the benefits millions of people are already enjoying. I challenge my Republican colleagues to channel that same energy into making the law work so that millions can get the life-saving care that they deserve.\n\u201cLook around your districts. \u00a0How many of your constituents could benefit from access to life-saving health care?\u00a0 To free cancer screenings and reduced prescription drug costs?\n\u201cThey don\u2019t need a 47th or 48th or 49th vote to repeal the law. They need the affordable, quality care that the ACA provides, and they are counting on their leaders to make it work, not work against them to make it fail.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=2", "Senator Cory Booker speaks on manufacturing in New Jersey", "2013-11-13", "2013", "2013-11", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Cory Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Senator Booker speaks about the importance of manufacturing to New Jersey's  economy with Secretary of Commerce Penny Pritzker. \n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tNovember 13, 2013", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-announces-beginning-long-branch-beach-replenishment-project", "Pallone Announces Beginning of Long Branch Beach Replenishment Project", "2013-11-12", "2013", "2013-11", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.\u2014Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) announced that the contract has been awarded and work will begin next week on a $40 million beach replenishment project in Long Branch.\u00a0 This Army Corps of Engineers project, which is funded at full federal expense, will restore beaches in Long Branch to conditions better than prior to Sandy. The project is expected to be completed by spring, 2014.\u00a0 Pallone was joined by Colonel Paul Owen, Commander of the New York District of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.\n\u201cSandy severely damaged our beaches and caused serious erosion that needs to be repaired to protect us from future storms,\u201d said Pallone. \u201cWith this critical beach replenishment project getting underway, we are moving a step closer toward recovering from Superstorm Sandy and rebuilding the Shore.\u201d\u00a0\nThe U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is repairing and restoring the entire Sea Bright to Manasquan beach erosion control and storm risk reduction project with funds from the Sandy aid package, which Pallone fought for in Congress.\u00a0 The Long Branch portion of the project, which is the third of four phases, will pump approximately 3.3 million cubic yards of sand along the beaches in Long Branch.\u00a0 The work will be done by Manson Construction using the largest hopper dredge in the United States, the Glenn Edwards.\u00a0\nBeach replenishment will begin in Long Branch at Pier Village and continue south to Takanassee Lake.\u00a0 Upon the completion of that section, replenishment will continue from Pier Village, north to Monmouth Beach.\u00a0 The newly constructed beach berm will be at an elevation of 9.3 feet above the mean tideline with width of 140 to 250 feet.\nThe section of the coast from Elberon to Loch Arbour will move forward under a separate contract in autumn of 2014.\u00a0 Sand has not previously been placed along this section of the coast.\u00a0 Easements and design work for the project need to be completed including the outfall at Takanassee Lake.\nThe Army Corps of Engineers is completing the beach replenishment work from Sea Bright to Manasquan under five contracts.\u00a0 The Army Corps recently completed the first replenishment contract in Sea Bright and Monmouth Beach and plans to begin replenishment from Asbury Park to Avon-by-the-Sea in January.\u00a0 Construction on the section from Belmar to Manasquan began last week.\u00a0 The last contact will cover work from Elbron to Loch Arbour.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov?p=press_release&id=1", "Senator Cory Booker meets with NJ Filipino leaders about Typhoon Yolanda", "2013-11-12", "2013", "2013-11", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Cory Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "November 12, 2013\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tOn November 12th, Senator Booker met with leaders of the Filipino community in New Jersey about areas of the Phillipines affected by Typhoon Yolanda.\nExperts estimate that 9.7 million people have been affected by the storm and 23,000 houses damaged or destroyed.\nThose seeking more information should contact the Center for International Disaster Information at http://www.cidi.org and 202-821-1999. Information on relief activities of the humanitarian community can be found at http://www.reliefweb.int.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-tours-vantage-apparel-stresses-importance-encouraging-american-manufacturing", "Pallone Tours Vantage Apparel, Stresses Importance of Encouraging American Manufacturing", "2013-11-09", "2013", "2013-11", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.\u2014On Friday, November 8, 2013 at 3:30 p.m., Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) visited Vantage Apparel, where he discussed the importance of manufacturing as an engine of economic growth.\u00a0 Congressman Pallone also discussed the \u201cMake It In America\u201d jobs agenda, which emphasizes bringing manufacturing jobs back to the United States.\n\u201cAmerican businesses like Vantage Apparel are reinvigorating our country\u2019s manufacturing sector, which is the best way to create jobs\u00a0that sustain and grow our middle-class now and over the long term,\u201d said Pallone.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019ve heard from business leaders, labor representatives, entrepreneurs, economists, and other stakeholders that\u00a0Congress needs to take action in order to help our manufacturing sector grow. I\u2019m hopeful that Republicans will work with us to enact Make It In America legislation and help secure America as the world\u2019s leading producer and innovator for years to come.\u201d\u00a0\nHouse Democrats\u2019 Make It In America plan focuses on creating the best conditions for American businesses to manufacture their products, innovate, and create jobs right here in the U.S. President Obama has already signed ten Make It In America bills into law, many of which passed Congress with bipartisan support.\u00a0 Leaders in business and labor alike support the Make It In America plan because it will set us on a solid path forward to a future of greater competitiveness, more jobs, and long-term economic success.\nFor more than 35 years, Vantage Apparel has been a top-ranked brand of identity apparel chosen to promote the names and logos of the country\u2019s leading corporations, resorts, golf courses, colleges and casinos.\u00a0 Vantage manufactures and stocks nearly 200 styles of fashion apparel.\u00a0 Pallone met with Vantage Apparel executives and toured the manufacturing operation.\u00a0\u00a0\nThe Make It In America plan for the 113th Congress is focused on four key priorities that can bring about the changes needed to help businesses grow and create jobs here, and which are the most likely to draw bipartisan support.\u00a0 These priorities are central to creating jobs, helping manufacturers produce more goods here, maintaining America\u2019s innovation edge, and preparing a highly skilled workforce. Democrats hope that both parties will come together during the 113th Congress to pass additional Make It In America bills so we can grow our economy, put more Americans back to work, and ensure the middle class can Make It In America.\n\u00a0\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-visits-menlo-park-veterans-memorial-home-edison-nj-mark-veterans-day-calls-end", "Pallone Visits Menlo Park Veterans Memorial Home in Edison, NJ to Mark Veterans Day, Calls for End to Backlog of Benefits Claims", "2013-11-07", "2013", "2013-11", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.\u2014Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) visited the Menlo Park Veterans Memorial Home in Edison, NJ to mark the upcoming Veterans Day holiday.\u00a0 Pallone spoke with New Jersey veterans and called for an end to the backlog of disability claims within the Veterans Administration (VA).\u00a0\n\u00a0\n\u201cOn the battlefield, the military pledges to leave no soldier behind.\u00a0 As a nation, it must be our pledge that when they return home, we leave no veteran behind,\u201d said Pallone.\u00a0 \u201cAs we approach Veterans Day 2013, on this day and every day, let us honor their service with actions that fulfill our commitment to our troops, their families, and our veterans \u2013 and that are worthy of our grateful nation.\u201d\u00a0\n\u00a0\nWith the war in Afghanistan winding down and more servicemen and women returning home, there is an even more prevalent need for a fully functioning VA, but a backlog of disability claims climbed to unprecedented levels with more than 900,000 benefits claims hanging in the balance.\u00a0 Upon the urging of Congress, the backlog was reduced by over 190,000 claims, but the Republican-led shutdown last month put that progress on hold.\u00a0\n  \n\tPallone discussed the package of legislative solutions he backs to further reduce the VA\u2019s backlog and get veterans the services they have earned.\u00a0 The package of 10 bills passed the House with bipartisan support on October 28, 2013 and is awaiting action in the Senate.\n\u00a0\nOn Monday, October 28, the House passed legislation (H.R 2189) which included key provisions from the Democratic backlog reduction package including:\n\u00a0\n Paying veterans more quickly by paying as their individual conditions are adjudicated.\n\tProviding veterans with information that may lead to quicker routes to the successful adjudication of their claim.\n\tStrengthening accountability by requiring VA to regularly track and provide information to the public on claims processing and the performance of VA regional offices.\n\tTaking steps to help ensure the VA has the needed information from other agencies to accurately process claims in a timely way.\n\tEncouraging VA to expand the use of automation in processing veterans\u2019 claims.\n\tSpeeding up claims by allowing veterans\u2019 medical examinations to be done by physicians outside the VA system and encouraging veterans to file fully developed claims.\n \u00a0\n\u201cNever again should those who served this nation hang in the balance because of political infighting or bureaucratic holdups,\u201d said Pallone.\u00a0 \u201cThis Veterans Day, the best way to honor the brave men and women who have protected our nation is to make sure they have the benefits they are due and the tools they need to thrive when they return home.\u00a0 We need to do more than just thank American servicemen and women; we need to honor and carryout the obligations we made to them and come through for them the way they did for us.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-announces-epa%E2%80%99s-finalization-plans-woodbrook-road-superfund-cleanup", "Pallone Announces EPA\u2019s Finalization of Plans for Woodbrook Road Superfund Cleanup", "2013-11-05", "2013", "2013-11", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "LONG BRANCH, NJ\u2014Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) released the following statement today upon the announcement by the Environmental Protection Agency\u2019s that is has finalized its plans to move forward with the cleanup of the Woodbrook Road Superfund site in South Plainfield, NJ:\n\u201cThe remediation of the Woodbrook Road site is incredibly important to South Plainfield.\u00a0 It is essential that this site be cleaned up in a quick and comprehensive manner.\u00a0 With the issuance of the Environmental Protection Agency\u2019s (EPA) final cleanup plan for this site, we are now on the way to a full cleanup to remove all public health hazards from the area.\u00a0 I am encouraged that EPA has finalized its plans to remove contaminants from the site instead of on-site storage of the material.\u00a0\n\u201cSuperfund sites can contain toxic contaminants that have been detected in drinking water wells, creeks and rivers, backyards, playgrounds and streets.\u00a0 Communities impacted by these sites can face restrictions on water use and recreational activities as well as economic losses as property values decline due to contaminated land.\u00a0 In the worst cases, residents of these communities can face health problems such as cardiac impacts, infertility, low birth weight, birth defects, leukemia, and respiratory difficulties.\n\u201cI am pleased to see that we are moving forward with this important cleanup and I remain committed to fighting for increased funding on the federal level for the Superfund program so that sites like this can be cleaned up at a faster pace.\u201d\u00a0\n\u00a0\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-calls-noaa-improve-summer-flounder-estimates", "Pallone Calls on NOAA to Improve Summer Flounder Estimates", "2013-11-05", "2013", "2013-11", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C.\u2014Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. sent a letter to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) expressing his concern over preliminary estimates of summer flounder catch made during the 2013 summer.\u00a0\n\u00a0\u201cThere continues to be a troubling lack of confidence among fishermen and many fisheries managers in the data produced by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and these estimates may reinforce the criticisms weighed against NOAA\u2019s data collection program.\u201d said Pallone.\nThe preliminary estimates for recreational summer flounder landings were greater than 3 million pounds, higher than any other year for the same time period dating back to 2004.\u00a0 Pallone calls into question the reliability and accuracy of these estimates given the havoc wreaked on New Jersey by Superstorm Sandy and the difficulties faced by some fishermen in returning to normal fishing capacity.\nPallone further questioned whether NOAA has adequate resources to collect reliable data and whether the new Marine Recreational Information Program is producing more accurate fishing data.\u00a0\n\u201cI ask that NOAA fully review the preliminary estimates for summer flounder landings and that any additional biases potentially created by Superstorm Sandy be taken into account before the final estimates are released,\u201d said Pallone.\u00a0 \u201cFurthermore, I ask that you provide me with details about any challenges NOAA faces in providing more accurate fishing data, including limited resources and obstacles faced in implementing the MRIP program.\u201d\n\u00a0\nNovember 5, 2013\n\u00a0\nDr. Kathryn Sullivan  \n\tActing Administrator\nNational Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration  \n\t1401 Constitution Avenue, NW  \n\tWashington, DC 20230\n\u00a0\nDear Acting Administrator Sullivan:\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 I am writing to express my concern over the preliminary estimates of the summer flounder landings July and August of 2013.\u00a0 There continues to be a troubling lack of confidence among fishermen and many fisheries managers in the data produced by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and these estimates may reinforce the criticisms weighed against NOAA\u2019s data collection program.\nAccording to preliminary data estimates, more than 3 million pounds of summer flounder were landed during this past July and August.\u00a0 This would mean that there were a greater amount of landings during these two months than during the same period of any other year dating back to 2004.\u00a0 Given the continued difficulties faced by the fishing community as a result of Superstorm Sandy, these estimates cannot be reconciled with observational reporting.\u00a0 For instance, many marinas were damaged and are still rebuilding.\u00a0 Additionally, a considerable number of boats were destroyed and have yet to be replaced.\u00a0 This leaves me concerned that there are a number of considerations that NOAA has failed to incorporate into its estimates.\u00a0\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 I also remain concerned about whether NOAA has the resources necessary to collect reliable data.\u00a0 In recent years, I have advocated for additional funds to be directed towards cooperative research and in-season data collection so that better fishing estimates can be made.\u00a0 Yet, rather than investing in management of an industry that serves as an economic driver, sequestration is forcing across the board cuts.\u00a0 I have opposed sequestration and want to know what impact it is having on NOAA.\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 As Congress considers reauthorization of the Magnuson Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act the reliability of data collection remains a primary concern of mine.\u00a0 The 2006 amendments to the act included requirements to develop an improved recreational data collection program, now the Marine Recreational Information Program (MRIP).\u00a0 Yet there is still concern that random sampling is heavily relied upon by NOAA and that the estimates produced are inaccurate.\u00a0\u00a0\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 I ask that NOAA fully review the preliminary estimates for summer flounder landings and that any additional biases potentially created by Superstorm Sandy be taken into account before the final estimates are released.\u00a0 Furthermore, I ask that you provide me with details about any challenges NOAA faces in providing more accurate fishing data, including limited resources and obstacles faced in implementing the MRIP program.\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Sincerely,\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 FRANK PALLONE, JR.\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0 Member of Congress", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-announces-federal-dollars-cleanup-sandy-damaged-lakes-and-waterways-monmouth", "Pallone Announces Federal Dollars for Cleanup of Sandy Damaged Lakes and Waterways in Monmouth and Middlesex Counties", "2013-11-04", "2013", "2013-11", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "LONG BRANCH, NJ\u2014Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) announced federal funding for the cleanup of lakes and waterways affected by Superstorm Sandy in Monmouth and Middlesex Counties.\u00a0 Pallone announced that several lakes, creeks and brooks throughout the Sixth Congressional District will receive federal dollars to cover 90% of the cost of cleanup and restoration work through the National Resources Conservation Service\u2019s Emergency Watershed Protection (EWP) Program, a part of the U. S. Department of Agriculture.\u00a0\nThe EWP program is designed to respond to watershed impairments caused by natural disasters, including removal of debris from lakes and streams, repair of undermined stream banks and damaged water control infrastructure.\nPallone made his announcement at Lake Takanassee where he was joined by Long Branch Mayor Adam Schneider.\u00a0 More than $197,000 will be allocated to clean up Lake Takanassee.\u00a0 The work at Lake Takanassee slated to be covered by the EWP program funds will include the removal of debris, such as pieces of buildings, bulkheads, sediment and brush that were deposited into the lake as a result of Superstorm Sandy.\n\u201cI\u2019m pleased to announce that the city of Long Branch will be receiving $197,435 for removal of debris and sediment deposited into the lake during Superstorm Sandy,\u201d said Pallone. \u201cDuring Sandy, all kinds of debris, from pieces of nearby buildings and bulkheads, to additional sediment and brush had built up in the lake.\u00a0 It is critical for New Jersey\u2019s lakes and streams to be cleaned up and preserved after the damage wrought by Sandy.\u201d\n\u00a0\nThe following are additional projects throughout the Sixth Congressional District receiving EWP program dollars for cleanup efforts:\n\u00a0\nWoodbridge, Middlesex County\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\nRemoval of downed trees and debris from South Branch Rahway River in the vicinity of Gills Lane and Barbara Court.\nFunding:\u00a0 $35,100\n\u00a0\nPerth Amboy, Middlesex County\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\nStabilization of eroded hillside and the removal of storm downed trees and debris from the vicinity of Water Street.\nFunding:\u00a0 $150,150\n\u00a0\nMarlboro, Monmouth County\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\nStream bank stabilization and the removal of storm downed trees and debris from Big Brook.\u00a0 Removal of storm downed trees and debris from Colts Brook and Milford Brook.\nFunding:\u00a0 $72,150\n\u00a0\nAsbury Park/Neptune, Monmouth County \n\u00a0\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Removal of sediment from Wesley Lake.\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Funding: $486,000\n\u00a0\nMonmouth County\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\nClearing of downed trees and removal of sediment and debris from various locations around the County.\n Union Beach: Ditch clearing from Diddling Street to Orange Ave.\n\tWest Keansburg: Ditch clearing from 8th Street to Thorns Creek; 1st Street ditch north of Central Ave to Waackaack Creek.\n\tKeansburg:\u00a0 Waackaack Creek below Highway 36\n\tPort Monmouth:\u00a0 Compton Creek near Bridge MT9\n\tLeonardo:\u00a0 Poricy Brook near Bridge MT29\n\tAtlantic Highlands:\u00a0 Wagner Creek from West Highland Ave to Sandy Hook Bay\n Funding: $50,000\n\u00a0\nThe EWP program is currently reviewing additional applications and further funds under this program may be released in the coming months.\u00a0\n\u00a0\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-tours-boys-and-girls-clubs-monmouth-county-asbury-park-discusses-importance", "Pallone Tours Boys and Girls Clubs of Monmouth County, Asbury Park, Discusses Importance of Healthy Living for Kids", "2013-11-04", "2013", "2013-11", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "LONG BRANCH, NJ\u2014Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. visited the Boys and Girls Clubs of Monmouth County\u2019s\u00a0 Asbury Park Unit where he toured the facility, observed fitness programs and took part in a juice tasting of juices made by kids.\u00a0 Pallone also discussed the importance of living a healthy lifestyle and lauded the Boys and Girls Club\u2019s Triple Play program, which is designed to (1) educate youth about good nutrition, (2) make physical fitness a daily practice and (3) develop individual strengths and good character.\n\u201cI\u2019m pleased to see all of the good work being done here at the Boys and Girls Club of Monmouth County,\u201d said Pallone.\u00a0 \u201cThe health benefits of diet and exercise are widely known, and it is critical that young people form good habits early to avoid negative health affects later in life.\u00a0 That\u2019s why programs like the Boys and Girls Club\u2019s Triple Play are so important.\u201d\n\"It's more important than ever for our young people to have a safe, caring and nurturing place to go in the afterschool hours,\u201d said Douglas Eagles, Executive Director of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Monmouth County.\u00a0 \u201cThe Boys & Girls Club of Asbury Park provides just that and more. Through collaborative\u00a0partnerships with\u00a0Nike the Monmouth &\u00a0Ocean County Food Bank\u00a0and innovative programs like Triple Play,\u00a0Club kids\u00a0experience increased\u00a0physical activity, learn\u00a0about\u00a0nutrition, and\u00a0are taught how to develop healthy relationships.\"\u00a0\nThe Boys and Girls Clubs of Monmouth County is a private non-profit organization that serves children that come from some of the most difficult circumstances in the County.\u00a0 With a professional licensed staff, the Boys and Girls Clubs of Monmouth\u2019s youth enjoy a variety of activities ranging from exercise programs, to exploring the world of computers.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://sires.house.gov/washington-review-october-31-2013", "Washington Review, October 31, 2013", "2013-10-31", "2013", "2013-10", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Albio Sires", "S001165", "sires.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "This was an important week for the specially appointed Panel on 21st Century Freight Transportation. After six months of deliberation, the Panel completed its mission. Less than a week after Congress voted 417 to 3 in favor of a major transportation authorization bill, I was joined by my colleagues on the Panel on 21st Century Freight Transportation to announce a series of bipartisan recommendations in our report to Congress. The findings of the Panel will play a key role in the development of a long-term surface transportation bill which is expected to be completed before the end of 2014.\u00a0These common sense, bipartisan recommendations will also help ensure that New Jersey remains competitive and will ensure that our nation, which moves nearly $20 trillion in goods on our transportation network each year, remains competitive.\nThis week also marked a year since the landfall of Hurricane Sandy that devastated the East Coast, especially New Jersey. The House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure also met to markup reauthorizations of critical FEMA programs that are still aiding in New Jersey\u2019s recovery. \u00a0It is important that we continue to support areas of our nation that were affected by Sandy. At the same time, we need to do more to be prepared so that our cities and towns will be able to withstand natural disasters. Strong building codes provide our best defense against hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, wildfires, and other natural disasters.\u00a0\nWith that in mind, my colleague, Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL), and I have introduced The Safe Building Codes Incentive Act (H.R. 1878) to encourage more states to adopt and enforce strong building codes as a preventative measure. If New Jersey did not have strong building codes, the damage inflicted by Sandy could have been much worse. It is my hope that the leadership on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee will bring this important bill before the House of Representatives for consideration soon.\nI invite you to continue leaving comments on my Facebook, Twitter, and website.\u00a0 Thank you for reading my Washington Review.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://payne.house.gov/press-release/payne-mourns-loss-chairman-phil-thigpen", "Payne Mourns the Loss of Chairman Phil Thigpen", "2013-10-30", "2013", "2013-10", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Donald Payne", "P000604", "payne.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "\u201cMy heart aches for the loss of a great man, Chairman Phil Thigpen, who was a close, loved one and a true guiding force in my life.\u00a0 With the passing of Chairman Thigpen, the State of New Jersey mourns the loss of a political giant that will truly be missed.\n\u201cWords cannot express how much Phil meant to me and my family throughout the years. As cousins, my father and Phil spent their personal and political lives together. \u00a0Growing up, I had the privilege of learning from the Chairman as he graciously dedicated his life to building a tremendous legacy here in New Jersey, one committed to strengthening the core principles upon which the Democratic Party was built like creating ladders of opportunity, lifting working families out of poverty, growing our middle class, and protecting our most vulnerable.\n\u201cPersonally, the Chairman has played an instrumental role in my life, taking on an even greater role with the passing of my father. I could always count on him to help guide me through some of the most difficult choices and tough times I faced in my life. My deepest condolences go out to his wife, Ernestine; Phil, Jr., David, and Rick; and the entire Thigpen Family.\u201d\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://payne.house.gov/video/committee-adopts-payne-amendment-protect-most-vulnerable-times-disaster", "Committee Adopts Payne Amendment to Protect Most Vulnerable in Times of Disaster", "2013-10-30", "2013", "2013-10", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Donald Payne", "P000604", "payne.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "The Committee on Homeland Security marked up H.R. 1791, The Medical Preparedness Allowable Use Act, and adopted an amendment offered by Rep. Donald M. Payne, Jr. that would ensure that countermeasures are put in place to protect children in schools and childcare facilities as well as elderly individuals with disabilities and in low-income communities during a biological disaster.\u00a0\nRep. Payne, Jr. has long-championed efforts to protect our most vulnerable populations and highlighted his bill H.R., 3158, The SAFE in Our Schools Act, which would require states that apply for state homeland security grant funding to certify that their schools have emergency plans that meet the standards recommended in the 2010 Children in Disasters Report.\u00a0\nRep. Payne, Jr.'s SAFE in Our Schools Act has been endorsed by\u00a0Save the Children, the American Academy of Pediatrics, Children\u2019s Health Fund, Easter Seals, International Association of Emergency Medical Service Chiefs, National Association of Pediatric Nurse Practitioners, National Association of School Nurses, National Association of School Psychologists, National Center for Disaster Preparedness, and Trust for America\u2019s Health.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://payne.house.gov/press-release/payne-statement-one-year-anniversary-hurricane-sandy", "Payne Statement on One Year Anniversary of Hurricane Sandy", "2013-10-29", "2013", "2013-10", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Donald Payne", "P000604", "payne.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Newark, N.J. \u2013 Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. (NJ-10) released the following statement regarding the one year anniversary of Hurricane Sandy:\n\u201cToday marks the one year anniversary of Hurricane Sandy\u2019s destructive landfall on the state of New Jersey.\u00a0 The storm accounted for 346,000 destroyed housing units; 190,000 negatively affected businesses resulting in 107,000 job losses; and an estimated 34 people killed in New Jersey.\u00a0 It is imperative that we not only remember those lives that were lost due to the storm but, we must also honor them by assisting those still in need and improving upon our current systems. \u00a0\u00a0\n\u201cLast year, Congress approved $60 billion in aid towards Hurricane Sandy relief.\u00a0 However, the lack of available information and poor understanding of who qualifies have caused lower income households to receive less individual assistance from FEMA.\u00a0 Furthermore, the cost of recovery from Hurricane Sandy has widely outpaced our resources.\u00a0 New Jersey has an unmet need of $4.85 billion in direct damage costs and an additional $23.5 billion needed for hazard mitigation.\u00a0\n\u201cAs Members of Congress, it is our responsibility to ensure that we minimize the impacts of future storms of this magnitude.\u00a0 The lessons learned from Hurricane Sandy as well as Hurricane\u2019s Ike, Charlie, and Katrina should not be wasted.\u00a0 Now is the time to better secure our infrastructure to withstand these more frequent storms.\u00a0 Legislation such as my SMART Grid Study Act, which calls attention to our declining resiliency to major storms, should be given priority.\u00a0 We must not wait until another tragic event to occur for us to act.\u00a0 The moment for us to take a proactive instead of a reactive approach to these major storms has arrived. \u201d\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://sires.house.gov/press-release/sires-introduces-bipartisan-freight-panel-final-recommendations", "Sires Introduces Bipartisan Freight Panel Final Recommendations", "2013-10-29", "2013", "2013-10", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Albio Sires", "S001165", "sires.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "For Immediate Release\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Contact: Erica Daughtrey\nOctober 29, 2013\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 201-309-0301\nSires Introduces Bipartisan Freight Panel Final Recommendations\n(Washington, D.C.)- Today, Congressman Albio Sires joined his colleagues to introduce the final recommendations of the specially appointed \u201cPanel on 21st Century Freight Transportation.\u201d\u00a0 The ad-hoc subcommittee has met over the past six months to examine the role freight transportation plays in the U.S. economy and how the federal government can work to increase the efficiency, safety, and security of our critical transportation network.\nIncluded in the Panel\u2019s findings are several key policy provisions put forth in Congressman Sires\u2019s MOVE Freight Act, including recommendations that Congress should direct the Secretary of Transportation to establish a true multimodal freight network that takes all modes of goods movement into account, the creation of comprehensive state freight plans, and robust, dedicated funding for freight transportation infrastructure projects.\u00a0\n\u201cIn New Jersey, more than 11% of our workers are involved in transportation, logistics, and distribution\u2014well above the national average\u2014and my district is home to one of the largest sea ports in the country, so involvement on this panel has been a key priority for me,\u201d remarked Congressman Sires.\u00a0 \u201cThese common sense, bipartisan recommendations will help ensure that New Jersey remains competitive and it will ensure that our nation, which moves nearly $20 trillion in goods on our transportation network each year, remains competitive.\u201d\nThe findings of the Panel on 21st Century Freight Transportation will play a key role in the development of a long-term surface transportation bill, which is expected to be completed before the end of 2014.\u00a0\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://sires.house.gov/superstorm-sandy-one-year-later-lesson-prevention", "Superstorm Sandy One Year Later:  A Lesson in Prevention", "2013-10-29", "2013", "2013-10", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Albio Sires", "S001165", "sires.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Superstorm Sandy One Year Later:\u00a0 A Lesson in Prevention By U.S. Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart and U.S. Rep. Albio Sires As we mark the one-year anniversary of Superstorm Sandy, we are reminded of the timeless words of America\u2019s most famous fireman, Ben Franklin. His advice that \u201can ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure\u201d rings true today as we look back at the devastation wrought by Sandy and seek solutions to make America more resilient to natural disasters.\nFire fighters, emergency management experts, and insurers all agree: strong building codes provide our best defense against hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, wildfires, and other natural disasters. After consulting with the professionals who work on the frontlines to keep our communities safe, we introduced bipartisan legislation to encourage more states to adopt and enforce strong building codes as a preventative measure.\nOur legislation, the Safe Building Code Incentive Act, would provide qualifying states that enforce strong building codes which adhere to the International Code Council model standards with an additional four percent of post-disaster grants from the Federal Emergency Management Agency. This legislation would provide significant benefits to homeowners, small businesses, and taxpayers.\nScientific research proves that when homes and office buildings are constructed by utilizing the best practices of modern building science, it is simply harder for Mother Nature to knock them down. We are confident that the Safe Building Code Incentive Act will help save lives, protect property, and ultimately reduce taxpayer exposure to natural disasters.\nSince we have become involved with this issue, the need to promote strong building codes as a disaster mitigation strategy has become even more urgent. Sandy inflicted more than $72 billion of economic losses along the eastern seaboard. Nearly 650,000 houses, 300,000 businesses, and 250,000 private vehicles were damaged or destroyed by the storm. 125 people lost their lives to this horrible catastrophe.\u00a0 While the damage to New Jersey, in particular, was devastating, it could have been much worse if New Jersey did not have strong building codes in place.\nWhile Sandy was the biggest storm in recent years, there have been many more disasters that have devastated communities in every corner of the nation. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, there have been 25 major disasters over the past two years that have surpassed $1 billion in economic losses. The economic toll from these events could near $200 billion when the final figures associated with Sandy are tabulated, but the biggest cost has been the tragic loss of hundreds of lives.\nIn the wake of so much devastation, Congress has an obligation to put in place incentives that encourage states to be better prepared the next time a major disaster strikes. Ensuring that more states adopt and enforce strong building codes should be the cornerstone of this effort.\nIn a comprehensive study conducted in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, researchers at the Louisiana State University Hurricane Center estimated that strong building codes, had they been in widespread use throughout the Gulf, could have reduced wind damage by 80%, saving $8 billion. Another study conducted by the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety found that Florida\u2019s existing strong building codes helped reduce the severity of the property damage from Hurricane Charley by more than 40 percent. And yet another study commissioned by FEMA estimated that for every dollar that the nation invests in pre-mitigation activities, such as encouraging the adoption of strong building codes, the nation reaps four dollars of economic benefits.\nStrong building codes will make America safer. The problem is far too few states enforce them.\u00a0 Currently, 16 states would be eligible for additional disaster relief assistance upon enactment of the Safe Building Code Incentive Act. It is our hope that the availability of additional disaster relief aid will motivate more states to put the power of modern building science to work for their citizens. Strong building codes should be the national norm, not the exception. The Safe Building Code Incentive Act will help achieve this goal.\nWe know Mother Nature will strike us again. The question is: will we be better prepared the next time? If we remember Ben Franklin\u2019s advice and put in place preventative measures that encourage strong building codes, we will be prepared.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-tours-sandy-ravaged-sea-bright-nj-mark-one-year-anniversary-superstorm", "Pallone Tours Sandy-Ravaged Sea Bright, NJ to Mark One Year Anniversary of Superstorm", "2013-10-28", "2013", "2013-10", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON D.C.\u2014Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) and Sea Bright Mayor Dina Long toured Ocean Avenue in Sea Bright, NJ to view the progress made in rebuilding the borough in the year since Superstorm Sandy damaged so many of its buildings and businesses.\u00a0 Sea Bright was one of areas hardest hit by Sandy when it made landfall last year.\u00a0 Pallone and Long discussed the toll the Sandy took on the Borough, rebuilding efforts and lessons learned from the storm about preparedness, response and the role of federal, state and local governments.\u00a0 Pallone also used the occasion to announce that New Jersey will be receiving $1.46 billion from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for the second round of Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding from the Sandy relief package.\n\u201cI am pleased that HUD will be announcing today that New Jersey will receive $1.46 billion in the second round of CDBG funds,\u201d said Pallone.\u00a0 \u201cThis money is critical to aiding homeowners, businesses and communities with repairing damage they sustained during the storm.\u201d\nPallone and Long began their tour of Ocean Avenue at Sea Bright\u2019s Borough Hall and continued north toward the Sea Bright Firehouse, where they observed the remnants of Sandy\u2019s destruction and improvements made in the year since the storm made landfall.\n\u201cIt\u2019s hard to believe that it has been a year since Sandy battered New Jersey and changed our lives,\u201d said Pallone.\u00a0 \u201cSandy devastated the Jersey Shore, and a year later, we are still working to rebuild.\u00a0 While there has been significant progress, there is still much to be done.\u00a0 Sandy taught us many important lessons about how we must improve the way we prepare for and recover from natural disasters.\u00a0 We simply cannot afford to make the same mistakes in the future.\u201d\nSuperstorm Sandy was one of the costliest and most destructive natural disasters in American history, with New Jersey\u2019s Sixth Congressional District withstanding some of the most significant damage.\u00a0 Congressman Pallone, who led the charge to bring much needed federal aid to New Jersey in Sandy\u2019s aftermath and has continued to provide countless hours of assistance to residents trying to recover from the storm, outlined several areas of concern with the government\u2019s response to the disaster and possible remedies he plans to pursue such as:\u00a0\n Improving temporary housing solutions\n\t\tIn the aftermath of the storm, there was an immediate need for temporary housing for those whose homes were badly damaged or destroyed.\u00a0 Unfortunately, while there was some temporary housing relief, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) did not offer enough housing options, such as FEMA trailers. Many who sought temporary shelter with family or friends were considered to have had their housing needs met, regardless of their actual long-term situations.\u00a0 Pallone has called on FEMA to address the issue of insufficient housing for displaced residents and revise their definition of who merits temporary housing after disasters.\n\t\t\n  Eliminating delays in processing claims with the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP)\n\t\tMany homeowners were forced to wait far too long to have their NFIP claims processed.\u00a0 The NFIP claims filing process was complicated and involved countless hurdles for homeowners.\u00a0 Pallone called on FEMA to address the massive backlog of claims, and the process was expedited, but the system needs a permanent fix.\u00a0 Pallone has also called on FEMA to establish an \u201cNFIP Consumers Bill of Rights\u201d and to do a better job of informing homeowners about what their policies actually cover.\n\t\t\n  Ending the politicization of disaster aid\n\t\tIt was unacceptable that the Sandy disaster aid package was held up and used as a tool for political bargaining.\u00a0 Pallone believes that the creation of a dedicated extreme weather and disaster fund could provide a possible solution that would take politics out of the process and get victims the funding they need right away.\n\t\t\n  Strengthening infrastructure\n\t\tSandy shed light on the fragility of our aging infrastructure and the need for serious overhaul of our roads, railways, and energy, water and sewage systems.\u00a0 Some of the funds Pallone pushed for in the Sandy relief package will be used to make infrastructure improvements, but he has also called on the federal government to make new investments to gird us against similar failures in the future.\n\t\t\n \u00a0\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-touts-person-assistance-health-insurance-marketplace-asbury-park", "Pallone Touts In-Person Assistance for Health Insurance Marketplace in Asbury Park", "2013-10-25", "2013", "2013-10", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Long Branch, NJ \u2013 Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) visited Community Affairs and Resources Center in Asbury Park, where trained Health Insurance Marketplace Navigators from the FoodBank of Monmouth and Ocean Counties are available to answer questions and assist families and individuals sign up for health insurance.\u00a0 Pallone visited with the staff and consumers signing up through the new marketplace.\n\u201cBecause of the new health insurance marketplace, getting the care you need is no longer a privilege \u2013 it\u2019s a right,\u201d said Pallone.\u00a0 \u201cChoosing a health insurance plan is an important decision, and that\u2019s why speaking with a trained marketplace navigator in your community is a valuable tool.\u00a0 I\u2019m pleased to see the FoodBank of Monmouth and Ocean Counties helping the uninsured or under-insured get the affordable coverage they want and need.\u201d\nOpen enrollment for the new health insurance marketplaces began this month and runs until March 15, 2014.\u00a0 For those who sign up, coverage will begin as early as January 1, 2014.\u00a0 Consumers can apply for insurance through the new Marketplace in four ways: by phone, online at healthcare.gov, by mail with a paper application, or with the help of an in-person assister like the FoodBank of Monmouth and Ocean Counties. \u00a0The hotline phone number is 1-800-318-2596, and it is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.\n\u00a0\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://sires.house.gov/press-release/congressman-sires-applauds-passage-house-wrrda-bill", "Congressman Sires Applauds Passage of House WRRDA Bill", "2013-10-24", "2013", "2013-10", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Albio Sires", "S001165", "sires.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "For Immediate Release\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Contact: Erica Daughtrey\n\tOctober 24, 2013\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 201-309-0301\n\tCongressman Sires Applauds Passage of House WRRDA Bill\n\tWashington, D.C \u2013 Last night, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 3080, the Water Resources Reform and Development Act (WRRDA) with overwhelming support, by a vote of 417 to 3.\u00a0 This bipartisan legislation reauthorizes the Water Resources Development Act\u2014legislation responsible for authorizing the water resources program of the Army Corps of Engineers\u2014for the first time since 2007.\u00a0 For New Jersey, that means vital port dredging projects that keep our ports competitive, a larger share of money for harbor maintenance projects, and greater infrastructure resiliency, protecting us against the damage of future storms.\u00a0\u00a0\n\t\u201cThe Water Resources Reform and Development Act shows just how much we can accomplish when partisan politics are set aside, and I hope that this effort will stand as an example for all of Congress to follow in the future,\u201d said Congressman Sires.\u00a0 \u201cThis bill protects and creates new jobs, enhances our resiliency against storm like Hurricane Sandy, and ultimately creates stronger communities in New Jersey.\u201d\n\tLast May, the Senate passed S. 601, the Water Resources Development Act of 2013.\u00a0 The two chambers will now appoint conferees to finalize a bill before sending it to the President to sign into law.\n\t\u00a0\n\t###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://sires.house.gov/washington-review-update-october-24-2013", "Washington Review Update, October 24, 2013", "2013-10-24", "2013", "2013-10", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Albio Sires", "S001165", "sires.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "This was a constructive week in Congress. \u00a0The House of Representatives passed\u00a0the Water Resources Reform and Development Act (WRRDA). I was proud to support this bipartisan legislation which\u00a0reauthorizes the water resources program of the Army Corps of Engineers. WRRDA is good for our nation and for New Jersey\u2019s 8th\u00a0District. It will keep Army Corps projects moving forward and it contains important reforms to ensure a larger share of money, generated for harbor maintenance by New Jersey\u2019s ports, stays in New Jersey.\nAlso this week, I co-hosted a Congressional Briefing with Global Health Technologies and my colleague Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL) to raise awareness about the need to advance global health research to combat infectious diseases. \u00a0Infectious diseases, rising rates of drug-resistance and other health conditions, still claim the lives of nearly 9 million people across the globe each year. To combat these emerging threats,\u00a0Congressman\u00a0Diaz-Balart and I have introduced H.R. 1515, the 21st Century Global Health Technology Act.\u00a0 This legislation would promote the development of health products that are affordable and easy to use in low-resource health systems.\u00a0H.R. 1515 supports USAID\u2019s current efforts by codifying a long-term program to continue research and development of critical health technologies.\u00a0I\u2019m proud to know that by supporting this bill, Congress will help to make an immeasurable difference in the lives of people around the globe.\nLastly, I joined a meeting with the Prime Minister of Pakistan to discuss important and timely issues that affect the U.S.-Pakistan relationship. Among the many issues discussed, my colleagues and I spoke specifically about the Pakistani security forces\u2019 counter-terrorism efforts and protecting the rights of Christians, Hindus and all ethnic minorities living within Pakistan.\nThank you for reading my Washington Review. I look forward to providing you regular updates. In the meantime, you may stay in touch by leaving comments on my Facebook, Twitter, and website.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-announces-more-36-million-fix-asbury-park-boardwalk", "Pallone Announces More than $3.6 Million to Fix Asbury Park Boardwalk", "2013-10-23", "2013", "2013-10", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Long Branch, NJ \u2013 Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) announced a $3,649,907 grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to repair damage sustained to the Asbury Park Boardwalk as a result of Superstorm Sandy. \u00a0The grant will cover 90% of the cost of the project.\u00a0 An estimated 66,000 square feet of the boardwalk was damaged during last October\u2019s storm.\n\u201cI believe the best way to mark the anniversary of Superstorm Sandy is by recognizing New Jersey\u2019s resilience and efforts to rebuild, and this grant for the historic Asbury Park Boardwalk does just that,\u201d said Pallone.\u00a0 \u201cThe reconstruction of Asbury Park\u2019s Boardwalk was critical to the city\u2019s full recovery, and I\u2019m pleased residents and tourists can enjoy the boardwalk again once thanks to this reconstruction effort.\u201d After the storm, Asbury Park demolished some parts of the boardwalk and stabilized others until permanent repairs could be made. \u00a0A contract was awarded to GCS Contractors Corp. to reconstruct 24,000 square feet of the boardwalk with aid from city employees and equipment.\nThe grant announced today will cover the costs incurred for repairing the remaining 42,000 square feet of the boardwalk including new decking and the demolition and removal of an estimated 210 tons of damaged decking.\u00a0 The work required the excavation and disposal of more than one ton of unsuitable soil of and the re-grading of more than 4,670 square yards of ground to support the new boardwalk.\nThe grant also covers the cost of two new beach access points will be built with ramps and stairs as well as the installation of conduits, an electrical cabinet, 620 feet steel railings and nine new waterfront decorative street lights.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://sires.house.gov/honoring-stephen-adubato", "Honoring Stephen Adubato", "2013-10-23", "2013", "2013-10", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Albio Sires", "S001165", "sires.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "STATEMENT FOR THE RECORD\nREPRESENTATIVE ALBIO SIRES\nOCTOBER 23, 2013\nMr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Stephen Adubato, Sr., the founder of The North Ward Center and an inspiring member of the Newark, New Jersey community.\u00a0 To recognize Mr. Adubato\u2019s achievements and contributions, a statue of him reading to two young children will be placed on the main campus of The North Ward Center.\u00a0 He began his career in education as a teacher in the Newark public school system and during this time obtained a master\u2019s degree in education.\u00a0 Using this experience Mr. Adubato went on to develop the North Ward Center in 1970, a group of five institutions designed to provide educational, cultural, and meaningful social services to low and moderate-income families in the area.\nFrom its humble beginnings as a small preschool, the Center now includes an adult medical day care, business training, as well as a charter school, Robert Treat Academy that has received national recognition and the honor of being named a Blue Ribbon School.\u00a0 Since the founding of the Center, Stephen Adubato Sr. has continually worked to improve the quality of life for everyone in the community from young children to senior citizens. \u00a0\u00a0The services that Mr. Adubato has provided for the Newark community have positively impacted countless individuals and families by bolstering the quality of life for all those that take part.\u00a0 Mr. Adubato has been honored by numerous organizations and institutions, such as Kean University and the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, for his contributions and dedication to education.\nToday I too recognize the accomplishments of Stephen Adubato Sr., a visionary leader and inspiring role model, and to thank him for his continued dedication to the residents of Newark, New Jersey, particularly the North Ward.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-emphasizes-need-invest-strengthening-power-grid-systems-prepare-future", "Pallone Emphasizes Need to Invest in Strengthening Power Grid Systems to Prepare for Future Disasters to Save Billions Down the Road", "2013-10-22", "2013", "2013-10", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Newark, N.J. \u2013 Congressmen Frank J. Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06),\u00a0Donald M. Payne, Jr. (NJ-10), \u00a0Rush Holt (NJ-12), Yvette Clarke (NY-09), and Leonard Lance (NJ-07), along with\u00a0U.S. Department of Energy Assistant Secretary for Electricity Delivery and Energy Reliability Patricia Hoffman and Public Service Electric & Gas (PSEG) Company President &\u00a0Chief Operating Officer Ralph LaRossa, held a press conference today at PSEG in Newark, New Jersey to commemorate the one year anniversary of Hurricane Sandy and highlight the need to invest in strengthening\u00a0our power grid systems to prepare for future disasters and mitigate billions of dollars of costs down the road.\nBetween 2003 and 2012, weather-related outages are estimated to have cost the U.S. economy on average between $18 billion and $33 billion annually. In 2012, Hurricane Sandy cost the United States an estimated $65 billion in damages, with outage costs accounting for an estimated $14 to $26 billion alone. Hurricane Sandy also knocked out power for 8.5 million customers, leaving many without power for nearly two weeks.\nThe SMART Grid Study Act is a $2.1 million comprehensive study by the National Research Council in full cooperation with the Department of Homeland Security, Department of Energy and other government agencies, with the goal of reducing the frequency and magnitude of outages. The study will provide a comprehensive look at the construction and technical development stages, costs, jobs created, energy savings, and environmental protections associated with fully upgrading to a SMART Grid System.\u00a0\n\u201cDuring Sandy, hundreds of thousands of households in New Jersey were without power for days,\u201d\u00a0Rep. Pallone said.\u00a0\u201cWe must work to prepare our electric grid for storms like this.\u00a0 We know that we\u2019ll never be able to stop all power outages during natural disasters, but to the extent that we can improve our energy infrastructure to limit any outages, we must make that effort.\u201d\n\u00a0\u201cHurricane Sandy didn\u2019t just disrupt lives, it caused major damage to our economy\u201d\u00a0said Rep. Payne, Jr.\u00a0\u201cBut the good news is we can mitigate this damage by investing in and upgrading our electric grid now to reduce costs down the road. My bipartisan SMART Grid Study bill will fully explore steps we can take to make our power grid smarter and more resilient, reduce the devastation caused by natural disasters, and make us more secure in the process. I very much look forward to working with my colleagues in Congress and stakeholders in the power industry to make this a reality.\u201d\n\u201cAs we approach the one-year anniversary of Sandy, we all understand the incredible impact of this storm and how it uprooted communities, disrupted lives and unleashed the power of nature unlike anything most of us had ever seen before,\u201d said Patricia Hoffman, Department of Energy Assistant Secretary for Electricity Delivery and Energy Reliability.\u00a0 \u201cAfter a critical review of the Department\u2019s emergency response, we took to heart the lessons learned from Hurricane Sandy.\u00a0We are continuing our work toward a more resilient energy infrastructure by further strengthening our partnerships, continuing to invest in our energy infrastructure and adapting for climate change. Grid resilience is a core requirement for climate adaptation.\u201d\n\u201cWe appreciate Congressman Payne\u2019s leadership and the bipartisan support of the NJ delegation in recognizing the critical need for making our electric infrastructure more resilient,\u201d said Ralph LaRossa, PSE&G president and COO. \u201cContinued investment in grid modernization and resilience will put thousands of people to work, save the economy billions of dollars and reduce the hardship experienced by millions of Americans when extreme weather strikes.\u201d\n\u201cResponse to Hurricane Sandy means more than tending to the needs of the people it has harmed and displaced,\u201d Rep. Holt said.\u00a0 \u201cIt means making significant investments in making our region\u2019s power grid more resilient \u2013 in addition to conducting proper disaster planning and taking aggressive steps to bring climate change under control.\u201d\n\u201cThe study of our electrical grid will ultimately allow us to minimize the threat of power outages as a result of storms and network failures created by cyber terrorism,\u201d Rep. Clarke said.\n\u201cI applaud my friend and colleague Congressman Payne for his leadership on this important public safety issue,\u201d Rep. Lance said. \u201cDuring the devastation of Hurricane Sandy the people of New Jersey witnessed first-hand the tremendous safety and economic consequences of a power grid failure so it is important that we examine ways to make our grid more resilient and secure. The one-year anniversary of Superstorm Sandy gives us much to reflect upon. Like other natural disasters, the best way to remember is to draw the right lessons. By making our infrastructure systems smarter, stronger and more resilient, we can be better prepared for the next storm.\u201d\nAttendees emphasized the need to upgrade our power systems, invest in smart grid technologies, and make our electric grid more resilient in light of the one year anniversary of Hurricane Sandy.\u00a0 A resilient grid is one that can withstand and recover from severe weather-related events, making it stronger and more reliable. Making investments now will not only save billions of dollars in disaster relief, but it will improve our national security by increasing our defense against cyber-attacks.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/rep-pallone-calls-expanded-access-high-quality-preschool", "Rep. Pallone Calls for Expanded Access to High Quality Preschool", "2013-10-22", "2013", "2013-10", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Highlights Benefits of Preschool in Visit to Early Learning Center\nLong Branch, NJ \u2013During a visit to the Joseph M. Ferraina Early Childhood Learning Center, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06), called for federal investments to expand access to high quality preschool to address the tens of thousands of New Jersey children who currently lack access to early high-quality education.\u00a0 The Joseph M. Ferraina Early Childhood Learning Center only serves young children, and it demonstrates the school district's commitment to providing high-quality early learning experience for each of the children who attend.\u00a0 Pallone was joined by representatives from Advocates for Children of New Jersey (ACNJ) and Michael Salvatore, Long Branch Public Schools Superintendent, on a tour illustrating the importance of quality preschool is making a difference in the lives of his youngest constituents.\u00a0\nUnfortunately, about 35,000 of New Jersey\u2019s children lack access to high-quality preschools that help children read on target by 3rd grade.\u00a0 Research shows that kids who attend high-quality preschool have higher academic achievement, struggle less in school, and more often overcome barriers to learning, leading to a drop in need for special education services.\u00a0 Children continue to reap the benefits of high-quality preschool as adults and are less likely to live in poverty and less likely to be incarcerated.\n\u201cInvesting in our nation\u2019s low-income children through greater access to high quality preschool is a critical step to leveling the playing field for them to succeed later in life,\u201d said Congressman Pallone.\u00a0 \u201cToo often state budgets, like New Jersey\u2019s, are unable to provide enough funding for high-quality preschool, and I believe that the federal government must step in.\u00a0 High-quality education, including preschool, is instrumental to the growth and success of our nation.\u201d\n\u201cWhile New Jersey has led the nation on providing preschool to low-income children in districts like Long Branch, thousands of children are still denied this early education simply because of where they live,\u201d said Cecilia Zalkind, executive director of Advocates for Children of New Jersey, which is leading the push for preschool expansion. \u201cIt is best for all children, our communities and our state if young students arrive at kindergarten with the foundation they need to succeed in school.\u201d\n\u201cIt is time for the state to increase its investment in preschool and for the federal government to help states accomplish that goal so all children graduate career- or college-ready,\u201d Zalkind said.\n\u201cRealizing the state of the economy, it is imperative federal dollars are invested in guaranteed outcomes. One sure to win investment is the expansion of early childhood education. As literacy standards are increasing with the common core state standards the vocabulary gap will likely expand without additional high quality early childhood programs. The greatest equalizer children have is a strong foundation of literacy introduced before age five. Last year we sent more than 95 percent of our seniors to college who were enrolled in our public preschool program 13 years ago,\u201d said Michael Salvatore, Superintendent of Schools.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://payne.house.gov/press-release/payne-recognizes-1-year-anniversary-hurricane-sandy", "Payne Recognizes 1 Year Anniversary of Hurricane Sandy", "2013-10-22", "2013", "2013-10", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Donald Payne", "P000604", "payne.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Newark, N.J. \u2013 Congressmen Donald M. Payne, Jr. (NJ-10), Frank J. Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06), Rush Holt (NJ-12), Yvette Clarke (NY-09), and Leonard Lance (NJ-07), along with\u00a0U.S. Department of Energy Assistant Secretary for Electricity Delivery and Energy Reliability Patricia Hoffman and Public Service Electric & Gas (PSEG) Company President &\u00a0Chief Operating Officer Ralph LaRossa, held a press conference today at PSEG in Newark, New Jersey to commemorate the one year anniversary of Hurricane Sandy and highlight the need to invest in strengthening\u00a0our power grid systems to prepare for future disasters and mitigate billions of dollars of costs down the road.\nBetween 2003 and 2012, weather-related outages are estimated to have cost the U.S. economy on average between $18 billion and $33 billion annually. In 2012, Hurricane Sandy cost the United States an estimated $65 billion in damages, with outage costs accounting for an estimated $14 to $26 billion alone. Hurricane Sandy also knocked out power for 8.5 million customers, leaving many without power for nearly two weeks.\n\u201cHurricane Sandy didn\u2019t just disrupt lives, it caused major damage to our economy\u201d said Rep. Payne, Jr. \u201cBut the good news is we can mitigate this damage by investing in and upgrading our electric grid now to reduce costs down the road. My bipartisan SMART Grid Study bill will fully explore steps we can take to make our power grid smarter and more resilient, reduce the devastation caused by natural disasters, and make us more secure in the process. I very much look forward to working with my colleagues in Congress and stakeholders in the power industry to make this a reality.\u201d\nThe SMART Grid Study Act is a $2.1 million comprehensive study by the National Research Council in full cooperation with the Department of Homeland Security, Department of Energy and other government agencies, with the goal of reducing the frequency and magnitude of outages. The study will provide a comprehensive look at the construction and technical development stages, costs, jobs created, energy savings, and environmental protections associated with fully upgrading to a SMART Grid System.\u00a0\n\u201cAs we approach the one-year anniversary of Sandy, we all understand the incredible impact of this storm and how it uprooted communities, disrupted lives and unleashed the power of nature unlike anything most of us had ever seen before,\u201d said Patricia Hoffman, Department of Energy Assistant Secretary for Electricity Delivery and Energy Reliability.\u00a0 \u201cAfter a critical review of the Department\u2019s emergency response, we took to heart the lessons learned from Hurricane Sandy.\u00a0We are continuing our work toward a more resilient energy infrastructure by further strengthening our partnerships, continuing to invest in our energy infrastructure and adapting for climate change. Grid resilience is a core requirement for climate adaptation.\u201d\n\u201cWe appreciate Congressman Payne\u2019s leadership and the bipartisan support of the NJ delegation in recognizing the critical need for making our electric infrastructure more resilient,\u201d said Ralph LaRossa, PSE&G president and COO. \u201cContinued investment in grid modernization and resilience will put thousands of people to work, save the economy billions of dollars and reduce the hardship experienced by millions of Americans when extreme weather strikes.\u201d\n\u201cDuring Sandy, hundreds of thousands of households in New Jersey were without power for days,\u201d Rep. Pallone said.\u00a0\u201cWe must work to prepare our electric grid for storms like this.\u00a0 We know that we\u2019ll never be able to stop all power outages during natural disasters, but to the extent that we can improve our energy infrastructure to limit any outages, we must make that effort.\u201d\n\u201cResponse to Hurricane Sandy means more than tending to the needs of the people it has harmed and displaced,\u201d Rep. Holt said.\u00a0 \u201cIt means making significant investments in making our region\u2019s power grid more resilient \u2013 in addition to conducting proper disaster planning and taking aggressive steps to bring climate change under control.\u201d\n\u201cThe study of our electrical grid will ultimately allow us to minimize the threat of power outages as a result of storms and network failures created by cyber terrorism,\u201d Rep. Clarke said.\n\u201cI applaud my friend and colleague Congressman Payne for his leadership on this important public safety issue,\u201d Rep. Lance said. \u201cDuring the devastation of Hurricane Sandy the people of New Jersey witnessed first-hand the tremendous safety and economic consequences of a power grid failure so it is important that we examine ways to make our grid more resilient and secure. The one-year anniversary of Superstorm Sandy gives us much to reflect upon. Like other natural disasters, the best way to remember is to draw the right lessons. By making our infrastructure systems smarter, stronger and more resilient, we can be better prepared for the next storm.\u201d\nAttendees emphasized the need to upgrade our power systems, invest in smart grid technologies, and make our electric grid more resilient in light of the one year anniversary of Hurricane Sandy.\u00a0 A resilient grid is one that can withstand and recover from severe weather-related events, making it stronger and more reliable. Making investments now will not only save billions of dollars in disaster relief, but it will improve our national security by increasing our defense against cyber-attacks.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://sires.house.gov/washington-review-october-18-2013", "Washington Review, October 18, 2013", "2013-10-18", "2013", "2013-10", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Albio Sires", "S001165", "sires.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "On Wednesday Congress voted to reopen the federal government and raise the national debt ceiling.\u00a0 Hundreds of thousands of government employees were able to return to work and American families can now breathe a little easier.\u00a0\nThe legislation that passed contains provisions that keep the government funded through January 15th, and raise the debt limit until February 7th. It also establishes a bipartisan budget conference that is responsible for drafting a budget proposal before the next deadline. I am hopeful that the new conference will draft a sensible proposal that will stimulate our economy while cutting wasteful spending.\nAs we move forward, we must not forget the toll that the gridlock in Washington took on our nation\u2019s economy and families. A shutdown must not happen again.\nThank you for reading my Washington Review. \u00a0I look forward to keeping you updated as we turn our focus to other important issues. Please don\u2019t hesitate to contact me through my website, Facebook, or Twitter with any comments.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://payne.house.gov/press-release/payne-votes-open-government-and-pay-our-nations-bills-time", "Payne Votes to Open Government and Pay Our Nation's Bills on Time", "2013-10-17", "2013", "2013-10", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Donald Payne", "P000604", "payne.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Tonight, Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. (NJ-10) voted to open the government and to pay the nation\u2019s bills on time before the October 17 deadline. The continuing resolution to fund the government and raise the debt ceiling passed the House by a vote of\u00a0285 to 144.\n\u201cAt long last Republicans have come to their senses and have done what they could have done sixteen days ago: reopen the government and agree to pay the nation\u2019s bills on time.\u00a0 Unfortunately, the difference between then and now, though, is that our country has suffered a significant economic setback in the process.\u00a0 I am hopeful that once my Republican colleagues realize the magnitude of the suffering they have caused, they will think twice before playing with fire again.\"\u00a0\nSince the October 1 government shutdown, more than 31,000 New Jersey federal employees have not been paid. Nine million women, infants, and children have gone hungry without nutrition assistance; survivors of Hurricane Sandy have not received much needed disaster relief; and veterans have returned home to broken promises.\u00a0 And just today, Standard & Poor\u2019s calculates that the Republican government shutdown has cost our economy $24 billion in lost economic activity.\n\u201cI am pleased that we have finally reached a deal, but I am extremely disappointed that in my first year in Congress, I had to witness first-hand such a shameful time in our nation\u2019s democracy. While Republicans played political games, the most vulnerable among us, working families, and our economy suffered. The entire extent of pain and suffering Republicans have unleashed is unknown, but I am hopeful that we can come together to move our country forward to pass a budget, invest in the things that make this nation great, and put people back to work.\u201d\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://sires.house.gov/press-release/sires-statement-solution-re-open-government-and-avoid-default", "Sires Statement on Solution to Re-Open the Government and Avoid Default", "2013-10-17", "2013", "2013-10", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Albio Sires", "S001165", "sires.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "For Immediate Release\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Contact: Erica Daughtrey\nOctober 17, 2013\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 201-309-0301\nSires Statement on Solution to Re-Open the Government and Avoid Default\n(Washington, D.C.)- Congressman Sires issued the following statement regarding the passage of legislation to re-open the government and raise the debt ceiling:\n\u201cI am relieved that Congress has finally broken through the gridlock that initiated the government shutdown.\u00a0 Although 16 days is far too long for this stalemate to have occurred, thousands of American families woke up today knowing that not only can they pay their bills, but the United States of America can continue paying its bills.\nWhile this shutdown and last minute decision to raise the debt ceiling has been destructive, I am hopeful that this debate will serve as a valuable lesson to my colleagues in Congress- shutting down the government is not only reckless for our economy, but it has real consequences for real people.\nI look forward to the bipartisan budget conference, established under this legislation, to draft a responsible approach to rein in wasteful government spending while continuing to grow our economy rather than continuing to govern from crisis to crisis.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-decries-republican-bill-leaves-critical-american-indian-programs-unfunded", "Pallone Decries Republican Bill that Leaves Critical American Indian Programs Unfunded", "2013-10-16", "2013", "2013-10", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Says GOP Relentless Effort to Repeal Health Care Reform also Means Repeal of Reauthorization of the Indian Health Care Improvement Act\nWashington, DC \u2013 Rep. Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) denounced the resolution H.J. RES. 80\u00a0- American Indian and Alaska Native, Health, Education, And Safety Act on Saturday, October 12, 2013 that House Republican leadership brought up for debate without proposing full funding of all critical American Indian programs or the entire federal government.\u00a0 On Monday evening Pallone voted against the measure.\u00a0 Pallone condemned the House Republican\u2019s hypocrisy towards American Indian healthcare, citing their unrelenting efforts to repeal or defund the Affordable Care Act, which includes the reauthorization of the Indian Health Care Improvement Act.\u00a0\nPallone\u2019s full statement follows:\n\u201cThe Republican position is clear.\u00a0 Either affordable health care for millions of Americans goes or we will keep the government shutdown.\u00a0 In an effort to avert the public\u2019s attention from this extreme and destructive hostage-taking, they have been putting forward a series of piecemeal, two month, sequestration level, funding bills.\u00a0\n\u201cHowever, today\u2019s piecemeal bill reaches a new level of hypocrisy.\u00a0 The irony here would only be lost on a Republican Party as intransigent and dominated by the Tea Party as the one we have here in the House.\n\u201cThe Affordable Care Act, which the Republicans are demanding be eliminated in exchange for allowing the government to reopen, includes the permanent reauthorization of the Indian Health Care Improvement Act.\u00a0 As the author of the reauthorization of Indian Health Care Improvement Act, I know the challenges that the reauthorization faced and just how long it took for us to finally get it into law\u2014a decade, in case you are wondering.\u00a0\n\u201cIf we yield to Republican hostage-taking and throw out the Affordable Care Act, we throw out the reauthorization of the Indian Health Care Improvement Act.\u00a0 This will be devastating to Indian Country.\n\u201cFurthermore, this Republican bill provides funding for only a relatively small number of programs that support tribes.\u00a0 While not taking away from the importance of these programs, there are many more programs that go unfunded.\u00a0 To name just a few, this bill does not fund food distribution on Indian reservations, child nutrition programs, Fish and Wildlife Service support, and the Office of the Special Trustee for American Indians.\u00a0\n\u201cThis bill also continues the damaging sequester cuts that the National Congress of American Indians have said, \u201cpose particular hardship for Indian Country and the surrounding communities who rely on tribes as employers.\u201d\u00a0 But while I support repealing sequestration, the Democrats have done their part.\u00a0 We have said let\u2019s keep the government open while we negotiate and work out our differences.\n\u201cIt is time for us to stop this nonsense.\u00a0 If you truly do believe in the sacred trust responsibility our government has to tribes, than let\u2019s have a vote on a clean CR and re-open the government.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://payne.house.gov/video/payne-describes-pain-nj-due-shutdown", "Payne Describes the Pain In NJ Due to Shutdown", "2013-10-15", "2013", "2013-10", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Donald Payne", "P000604", "payne.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "\u201cMr. Speaker, this madness has got to stop. \u00a0\n\u00a0\n\u201cYesterday, I heard from a local homeless shelter in Irvington, New Jersey that is struggling to provide for the overwhelming amount of homeless new mothers. These are new mothers who can\u2019t feed their babies now that their WIC benefits have been cut off. Because of the government shutdown, homeless shelters across New Jersey are running low on baby formula, diapers, and food to feed these mothers and their newborn babies.\u00a0\n\u00a0\n\u201cThis kind of story is shameful, and it\u2019s happening all over New Jersey. The pain I see in my district is very real, and it could get a whole lot worse. If we choose not to pay our bills on time one-and-a-half million people in New Jersey may not get their Social Security checks, and 50,000 disabled veterans in New Jersey may not get their medical bills paid.\n\u00a0\n\u201cCongress has two simple jobs: \u00a0(1) open the government, and (2) pay our bills on time. These are non-negotiable. The Republican Tea Party shouldn\u2019t hold the country hostage. Let\u2019s get to fixing America\u2019s problems again, instead of creating them.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-%E2%80%98gop-shutdown-impacts-epa-work-and-jobs%E2%80%99", "Pallone: \u2018GOP Shutdown Impacts EPA Work and Jobs\u2019", "2013-10-14", "2013", "2013-10", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Rep. Pallone Stands with New Jersey Sierra Club before Shuttered EPA Laboratory, Calling for Reopening of Federal Government\nLong Branch, NJ \u2014 Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) stood before the shuttered Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 2 Laboratory in Edison, New Jersey, calling for an end to the reckless Republican government shutdown that has left all 100 employees of the lab furloughed.\u00a0 The government shutdown has halted or slowed work on a variety of activities critical to the protection of human health, as well as New Jersey\u2019s environment such as the cleanup of Superfund sites.\u00a0 The EPA Region 2 Lab provides important environmental protection services to New York, New Jersey and Puerto Rico.\nImportant work that protects the safety and health of New Jerseyans at Superfund sites along New Jersey\u2019s Lower Passaic River, in Pohatcong and along the Raritan Bay have stopped as a result of the Republican shutdown.\u00a0 Superfund sites contain toxic contaminants that have been detected in drinking water wells, creeks, rivers, backyards, playgrounds and streets.\u00a0 In some of the worst cases, the contamination cleaned up at Superfund sites has been known to cause health problems such as cardiac illness, infertility, low birth weight, birth defects, leukemia and respiratory difficulties.\u00a0\nThe cleanup and restoration of Superfund sites creates jobs and results in rehabilitated properties that are often used for commerce and real estate redevelopment. In 2011, cleanup of Superfund sites created 2,300 jobs in New Jersey, alone.\n\u201cIt is now day 14 of the reckless Republican government shutdown that was orchestrated by extreme factions of the GOP to drive their agenda and drive us all into a national crisis.\u00a0 Shutting down the government hurts our economy and threatens middle-class jobs as shown right here at the Edison EPA Lab, where 100 furloughed workers have been forced to stop their work on New Jersey\u2019s Superfund sites, among other critical environmental programs,\u201d said Pallone, who has been a leader in the fight to cleanup Superfund sites throughout the nation.\nPallone also cited the cancelation of an important safety inspection at the Oyster Creek nuclear power plant as a result of the shutdown.\u00a0 The drill, which has been suspended indefinitely, would have included representatives from EPA, Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), Nuclear Regulatory Commission and other federal agencies to test procedures and equipment at the plant to ensure proper safety regulations are being followed.\n\u201cI\u2019m outraged that the GOP shutdown is putting the health and safety of New Jerseyans at risk.\u00a0 This is no way to run the government,\u201d added Pallone.\nPallone has been outspoken in his criticism of House Republicans for forcing the nearly two week long closure of the federal government, which has resulted in the furlough of hundreds of thousands of federal employees, causing a potentially devastating blow to the already struggling U.S. economy.\u00a0\nPallone was joined by Jeff Tittel, Director of the New Jersey Chapter of the Sierra Club.\u00a0\n\u201cThe polluters in this country have gotten what they wanted. They have shutdown the EPA. Since they can\u2019t repeal our environmental laws they are doing it by shutting down the government and the EPA. The shutdown is having drastic consequences to our environment in New Jersey.\u00a0 It will lead to more air and water polluting and toxins getting out into our environment. We are here at the EPA lab in Edison not only because it has been shuttered, but because the award winning research that normally happens here has now stopped. This lab not only does important scientific research around toxic pollution and the environment its work actually helps to save lives by scientifically setting environmental standards. New Jersey has more Superfund sites than other state. Now with the shutdown these sites are not getting cleaned up leading to more pollution getting into our environment and communities. Without EPA inspectors and enforcement personal this is going to be like removing the cop on patrol. This will lead to more violations, toxic spills and pollution putting our environment and our health at risk,\u201d said Jeff Tittel, Director of the New Jersey Sierra Club.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://sires.house.gov/press-release/sires-talks-economy-final-freight-panel-hearing", "Sires Talks Economy in Final Freight Panel Hearing", "2013-10-11", "2013", "2013-10", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Albio Sires", "S001165", "sires.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "For Immediate Release\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Contact: Erica Daughtrey\nOctober 11, 2013\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 201-309-0301\nSires Talks Economy in Final Freight Panel Hearing\n(Washington, D.C.)- Congressman Albio Sires joined his colleagues at the final hearing conducted by the specially appointed \u201cPanel on 21st Century Freight Transportation.\u201d\u00a0 The ad-hoc subcommittee has met over the past six months to examine the role freight transportation plays in the U.S. economy and how the federal government can work to increase the efficiency, safety, and security of our critical transportation network.\nIn the panel\u2019s final hearing, entitled \u201cFunding the Nation\u2019s Freight System\u201d, Congressman Sires pressed witnesses to explain the consequences for our economy if Congress fails to identify robust sources of funding for transportation infrastructure projects.\n\u201cThe Panel on 21st Century Freight Transportation has spent the past six months focusing on the needs of our nation\u2019s freight network, so it\u2019s fitting that the final hearing highlights the serious funding gaps we face simply to keep our roads in a state of good repair,\u201d said Congressman Sires. \u201cI can\u2019t understate the importance of this: our freight network is America\u2019s economic competitive edge in a global economy.\u00a0 Our ability to move goods quickly and efficiently remains the envy of the world, but if we fail to make smart investments right now, we will be outcompeted.\u201d\nThe panel is expected to issue a final report to Congress on its findings in the coming weeks.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://sires.house.gov/washington-review-october-11-2013", "Washington Review, October 11, 2013", "2013-10-11", "2013", "2013-10", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Albio Sires", "S001165", "sires.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Today is the 11th day that the United States government is shutdown. Discussions in Congress continue, but uncertainty remains all too real for American families across the nation.\nOn October 9th, I attended a meeting at the White House with my Democratic colleagues to speak with President Obama and Vice President Biden about the path forward on reopening the government and sustaining U.S. credit. There are also ongoing discussions between Republican leaders and the President. It is my hope that these conversations will result in a common-sense proposal to reopen the government and raise the debt ceiling so our nation does not default. We must move past these manufactured crises, and begin discussion on how to grow our economy.\nWhile the government shutdown and the debt ceiling have rightly consumed most of our focus, work continues on other issues. This week, I joined my colleagues at the final hearing conducted by the specially appointed \u201cPanel on 21st Century Freight Transportation.\u201d Our freight network is America\u2019s economic competitive edge in a global economy.\u00a0 Our ability to move goods quickly and efficiently remains the envy of the world, however, if we fail to make smart investments right now, we will lose our competitive edge.\nIn the realm of global affairs, I attended the House Committee on Foreign Affairs\u2019 hearing on Wednesday about the effectiveness of U.S. aid in Haiti.\u00a0 U.S. aid efforts are a critical component of our foreign policy.\u00a0 However, at a time when Congress is deadlocked over funding the government, we must ensure that our U.S. agencies are performing efficiently and effectively. \u00a0\nThis week, I continued having meetings in my Washington D.C. office. Yesterday, I met with two students from Bayonne. These students are currently interning in DC as part of The Washington Center internship program. I am always happy to meet such ambitious and bright young adults from our district. Additionally, I met with the new Vice President of the New Jersey, New York, and Connecticut regions of Verizon, Leecia Eve, to discuss the work that Verizon seeks to accomplish in our communities.\nLastly, this week, I delivered a statement before Congress in honor of Master Sergeant Nicholas Oresko, the oldest living Medal of Honor recipient, and Bayonne native, who passed away on October 4, 2013 at the age of ninety-six.\u00a0 Master Sergeant Oresko fought bravely during WWII. The true impact of his unselfish actions can never be measured as it extends beyond the lives of the men he saved.\nAs we head into the weekend, I invite you to visit my website, Facebook, and Twitter pages for updates regarding the government shutdown and the debt ceiling negotiations. As we work toward common ground, keeping you informed remains one of my top priorities. Please feel free to leave me comments and questions. Your input helps shape the work I do here in Washington.\nOnce again, thank you for reading my Washington Review.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://payne.house.gov/press-release/payne-statement-passing-mayor-bookers-father", "Payne Statement on the Passing of Mayor Booker's Father", "2013-10-10", "2013", "2013-10", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Donald Payne", "P000604", "payne.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Newark, N.J. \u2013 Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. released the following statement after the passing of Cary Booker, the father of Newark Mayor Cory Booker:\n\u201cI want to extend my deepest sympathies to Mayor Cory Booker, his brother, Cary Booker, and the entire Booker family. \u00a0I\u2019ve had the pleasure of knowing Cary Booker during my time as President of the Newark City Council, and he was always a true delight to be around. I will always remember our conversations as being full of joy and laughter, and he will be truly missed.\u00a0 My prayers and condolences go out to Mayor Booker and his family during this sorrowful time.\u201d\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://sires.house.gov/memory-nicholas-oresko", "In Memory of Nicholas Oresko", "2013-10-09", "2013", "2013-10", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Albio Sires", "S001165", "sires.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "IN MEMORY OF NICHOLAS ORESKO,\nMEDAL OF HONOR RECIPIENT\nMr. Speaker, I rise today to speak in memory of Master Sergeant Nicholas Oresko, the oldest living Medal of Honor recipient, and Bayonne, New Jersey native, who passed away on October 4, 2013 at the age of ninety-six.\u00a0\nIn the final stages of WWII, on January 23, 1945, Master Sergeant Oresko\u2019s unit was pinned down by deadly enemy machine gun fire as the Battle of Bulge drew to a close.\u00a0\nAs platoon leader with Company C, he made a final, solitary attempt to eliminate the German position in nearby bunkers.\u00a0 Master Sergeant Oresko charged the hill, weathering enemy fire, to throw a grenade into the German bunkers.\u00a0\nRefusing to withdraw from battle, despite being wounded and weak with blood loss, he continued the assault until he was assured the mission was successfully accomplished.\u00a0\nHis lone assault wiped out two machine-gun positions and enabled his unit to take the hill with minimum casualties.\nThe true impact of his unselfish actions can never be measured as it extends beyond the lives of the men he saved.\nMaster Sergeant Oresko was awarded the Medal of Honor by President Harry Truman on October 30, 1945 for his quick thinking, indomitable courage, and unswerving devotion to his country and fellow soldiers.\nI rise today in memory of Master Sergeant Nicholas Oresko, to honor his courage, and to ensure that those who would sacrifice their own safety for the benefit of the Nation, are never forgotten.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-west-keansburg-now-officially-considered-hazlet-usps", "Pallone: West Keansburg Now Officially Considered Hazlet by USPS", "2013-10-08", "2013", "2013-10", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Long Branch, NJ \u2013 Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) announced today that the United States Postal Service (USPS) has approved a mailing address name change, and the section of Hazlet known as West Keansburg will now be serviced under the name Hazlet Township. \u00a0\n\u201cThis name change will help eliminate confusion among those who mistakenly believe that West Keansburg is part of the neighboring borough of Keansburg instead of Hazlet Township,\u201d said Pallone.\u00a0 \u201cOperating uniformly under the name of Hazlet will create a more unified township, and I\u2019m pleased that the U.S. Postal Service was able to accommodate this request.\u201d\nPallone wrote to Postmaster General Patrick R. Donahoe requesting this change upon hearing from constituents and local elected officials.\u00a0 Residents of the West Keansburg section of Hazlet pay property taxes and exercise their right to vote in Hazlet and not the Borough of Keansburg.\u00a0 In addition, emergency and other local services for these residents are funded and provided by Hazlet Township and not the Borough of Keansburg.\u00a0 Residents of West Keansburg will continue to use the zip code 07734.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://payne.house.gov/video/payne-demands-government-reopen", "Payne Demands that the Government Reopen", "2013-10-07", "2013", "2013-10", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Donald Payne", "P000604", "payne.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Rep. Payne, Jr. said:\n\u00a0\n\"Mr. Speaker, our democracy is supposed to be the example for the world. But the example we have set with this Republican government shutdown is beyond shameful. \u00a0Some of my Republican colleagues are actually celebrating this shutdown, saying quote 'This is exactly what they wanted.'\u00a0Who are they listening to? \u00a0It certainly isn\u2019t the American people.\u00a0\n\u00a0\n\"I fear that survivors of Hurricane Sandy who have lost everything will be left without the relief they need and that the 31,000 federal workers in New Jersey on furlough will wonder how they\u2019ll make ends meet.\u00a0 I worry about the veterans who have fought for this country \u2013 but have come home to broken promises -- and\u00a0the more than 9 million women, infants and children who will be cut from WIC, nutritional assistance they need to survive. \u00a0\n\u00a0\n\"We cannot pick and choose winners and losers in this fight. \u00a0So I urge my Republican colleagues to act responsibly. \u00a0Put a clean CR on the floor and let\u2019s start working for the American people again. \u00a0Because they shouldn\u2019t have to suffer for the Republicans\u2019 inability to govern any longer.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://sires.house.gov/press-release/congressman-sires-cosponsors-bipartisan-immigration-reform-bill", "Congressman Sires Cosponsors Bipartisan Immigration Reform Bill", "2013-10-07", "2013", "2013-10", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Albio Sires", "S001165", "sires.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "For Immediate Release\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Contact: Erica Daughtrey\nOctober 5, 2013\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 201-309-0301\nCongressman Sires Cosponsors Bipartisan Immigration Reform Bill\n(Washington, D.C.)\u2014On Wednesday, October 2, Congressman Sires cosponsored, H.R. 15, the Border Security, Economic Opportunity, and Immigration Modernization Act, a bipartisan immigration reform bill that includes a tough but fair path to citizenship..\nThis legislation maintains key provisions included in the Senate-approved bill S.744, which passed in June by a bipartisan vote of 68-32. Provisions in the bill include a path to citizenship that is contingent upon securing our borders and tracking whether legal immigrants have left the country when required, an expedited path to citizenship for DREAMers, and a measure to protect against future illegal immigration. Unlike S. 744, H.R. 15 rejects the controversial Corker-Hoeven amendment in the Senate-passed bill and replaces it with the McCaul-Thompson border security bill that was reported by the House Homeland Security Committee by voice vote in May.\nCongressman Sires commented on the new legislation, \u201cPassing this bill would be a positive step toward mending our broken immigration system. H.R. 15 addresses immigration reform in a responsible way and overhauls the most deficient aspects of our current system.\u201d\nAccording to the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office (CBO), enactment of the bipartisan Senate-passed comprehensive immigration reform bill would reduce the deficit by $850 billion.\u00a0 CBO also estimates that the S. 744 would increase economic growth by 3.3% in 2023 and 5.4% in 3033.\n\u201dComprehensive reform will reduce our deficit, grow our economy, reaffirm our values, advance our ideals, and honor our history as a nation of immigrants,\u201d Congressman Sires concluded.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://sires.house.gov/washington-review-update-october-7-2013", "Washington Review Update, October 7, 2013", "2013-10-07", "2013", "2013-10", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Albio Sires", "S001165", "sires.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Over the weekend I joined 195 of my Congressional colleagues in sending a letter to Speaker John Boehner, urging him to allow a vote on the Senate-passed continuing resolution (CR).\u00a0 The Senate-passed CR would immediately reopen the government and keep current funding levels through November 15, 2013.\u00a0 Now in the 7th day of a government shutdown, it is imperative that Speaker Boehner allow an up or down vote on a clean CR without any toxic provisions attached, such as defunding or delaying the Affordable Care Act.\u00a0 I will continue to keep you updated on the progress of debates here in Washington, D.C.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/rep-pallone-199-house-democrats-send-letter-speaker-boehner-demandavote-bill-reopen", "Rep. Pallone, 199 House Democrats Send Letter to Speaker Boehner to #DemandAVote on Bill to Reopen Government", "2013-10-05", "2013", "2013-10", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) is one of 200 Members of the House Democratic Caucus who sent a letter to Speaker John Boehner demanding a vote on behalf of the American people on the Senate-passed continuing resolution, which would reopen government and end the detrimental, five day long Republican Government Shutdown. \u00a0The letter, which is signed by 195 voting Members and 5 non-voting delegates, makes clear that there is a bipartisan majority to pass this bill and reopen government now.\u00a0 Below is the full text of the letter:\nOctober 5, 2013\nThe Honorable John Boehner\nSpeaker\nUnited States House of Representatives\nWashington, D.C.\u00a0 20515\nDear Speaker Boehner,\nEnough is enough.\nToday marks the fifth day that the federal government has been shutdown. \u00a0Please consider how deeply unfair this is to the citizens we represent.\nThe solution to this crisis is a simple piece of legislation that funds the government at levels that have already passed both chambers of Congress.\nAt this point, to attach defunding or delaying the Affordable Care Act to legislation needed to re-open the government is to put our economy at risk in order to advance a political agenda.\nWe demand a vote on a clean continuing resolution immediately so that government functioning can resume and Americans can move on with their lives.\u00a0\nThe games have to stop.\nBest regards,\nCongressman Timothy H. Bishop (NY-1)\nCongressman Patrick Murphy (FL-18)\nDemocratic Leader Nancy Pelosi\nDemocratic Whip Steny H. Hoyer\nAssistant Democratic Leader James E. Clyburn\nDemocratic Caucus Chairman Xavier Becerra\nDemocratic Caucus Vice Chairman Joseph Crowley\nRobert E. Andrews (NJ-1)\nRon Barber (AZ-2)\nKaren Bass (CA-37)\nJoyce Beatty (OH-3)\nAmi Bera (CA-7)\nSanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-2)\nEarl Blumenauer (OR-3)\nSuzanne Bonamici (OR-2)\nMadeleine Z. Bordallo (GU-DL)\nRobert A. Brady (PA-1)\nBruce L. Braley (IA-1)\nCorrine Brown (FL-5)\nJulia Brownley (CA-26)\nCheri Bustos (IL-17)\nG.K. Butterfield (NC-1)\nLois Capps (CA-24)\nMichael E. Capuano (MA-7)\nTony Cardenas (CA-29)\nJohn C. Carney, Jr. (DE-AL)\nAndre Carson (IN-7)\nMatthew A. Cartwright (PA-17)\nKathy Castor (FL-14)\nJoaquin Castro (TX-20)\nDonna M. Christensen (VI-DL)\nJudy Chu (CA-27)\nDavid N. Cicilline (RI-1)\nYvette D. Clarke (NY-9)\nWM. Lacy Clay (MO-1)\nEmanuel Cleaver, II (MO-5)\nSteve Cohen (TN-9)\nGerald E. Connolly (VA-11)\nJohn Conyers, Jr. (MI-13)\nJim Costa (CA-16)\nJoe Courtney (CT-2)\nHenry Cuellar (TX-28)\nElijah E. Cummings (MD-7)\nDanny K. Davis (IL-7)\nSusan A. Davis (CA-53)\nPeter DeFazio (OR-4)\nDiana DeGette (CO-1)\nJohn K. Delaney (MD-6)\nRosa L. DeLauro (CT-3)\nSuzan K. DelBene (CO-1)\nTed Deutch (FL-21)\nJohn Dingell (MI-12)\nLloyd Doggett (TX-35)\nMichael F. Doyle (PA-14)\nTammy Duckworth (IL-8)\nDonna F. Edwards (MD-4)\nKeith Ellison (MN-5)\nEliot L. Engel (NY-16)\nWilliam L. Enyart (IL-12)\nAnna G. Eshoo (CA-18)\nElizabeth H. Esty (CT-5)\nSam Farr (CA-20)\nChaka Fattah (PA-2)\nBill Foster (IL-11)\nLois Frankel (FL-22)\nMarcia L. Fudge (OH-11)\nTulsi Gabbard (HI-2)\nPete Gallego (TX-23)\nJohn Garamendi (CA-3)\nJoe Garcia (FL-26)\nAlan Grayson (FL-9)\nAl Green (TX-9)\nGene Green (TX-29)\nRa\u00fal M. Grijalva (AZ-3)\nLuis V. Gutierrez (IL-4)\nJanice Hahn (CA-44)\nColleen W. Hanabusa (HI-1)\nAlcee Hastings (FL-20)\nDenny Heck (WA-10)\nBrian Higgins (NY-26)\nJames A. Himes (CT-4)\nRub\u00e9n Hinojosa (TX-15)\nRush Holt (NJ-12)\nMichael M. Honda (CA-17)\nSteven A. Horsford (NV-4)\nJared Huffman (CA-2)\nSteve Israel (NY-3)\nSheila Jackson Lee (TX-18)\nHakeem S. Jeffries (NY-8)\nEddie Bernice Johnson (TX-30)\nHenry C. \u201cHank\u201d Johnson, Jr. (GA-4)\nMarcy Kaptur (OH-9)\nBill Keating (MA-9)\nRobin Kelly (IL-2)\nJoseph P. Kennedy, Jr. (MA-4)\nDaniel T. Kildee (MI-5)\nDerek Kilmer (WA-6)\nAnn Kirkpatrick (AZ-1)\nAnn McLane Kuster (NH-2)\nJames R. Langevin (RI-2)\nRick Larsen (WA-2)\nJohn B. Larson (CT-1)\nBarbara Lee (CA-13)\nSander M. Levin (MI-9)\nJohn Lewis (GA-5)\nDaniel Lipinski (IL-3)\nDave Loebsack (IA-2)\nZoe Lofgren (CA-19)\nAlan S. Lowenthal (CA-47)\nNita M. Lowey (NY-17)\nBen Ray Luj\u00e1n (NM-3)\nMichelle Lujan Grisham (NM-1)\nStephen F. Lynch (MA-8)\nDaniel Maffei (NY-24)\nCarolyn B. Maloney (NY-12)\nSean Patrick Maloney (NY-18)\nDoris O. Matsui (CA-6)\nCarolyn McCarthy (NY-4)\nBetty McCollum (MN-4)\nJim McDermott (WA-7)\nJames P. McGovern (MA-2)\nJerry McNerney (CA-9)\nGregory W. Meeks (NY-5)\nGrace Meng (NY-6)\nMichael H. Michaud (ME-2)\nGeorge Miller (CA-11)\nGwen Moore (WI-4)\nJames P. Moran (VA-8)\nJerrold Nadler (NY-10)\nGrace F. Napolitano (CA-32)\nRichard Neal (MA-5)\nGloria Negrete McLeod (CA-35)\nRick Nolan (MN-8)\nEleanor Holmes Norton (DC-DL)\nBeto O\u2019Rourke (TX-16)\nWilliam L. Owens (NY-21)\nFrank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-6)\nBill Pascrell, Jr.\u00a0 (NJ-9)\nEd Pastor (AZ-7)\nDonald J. Payne, Jr. (NJ-10)\nEd Perlmutter (CO-7)\nScott H. Peters (CA-52)\nGary Peters (MI-14)\nCollin C. Peterson (MN-7)\nPedro R. Piersluisi (PR-DL)\nChellie Pingree (ME-1)\nMark Pocan (WI-2)\nJared Polis (CO-2)\nDavid E. Price (NC-4)\nMike Quigley (IL-5)\nNick J. Rahall (WV-3)\nCharlie B. Rangel (NY-13)\nCedric L. Richmond (LA-2)\nLucille Roybal-Allard (CA-40)\nRaul Ruiz (CA-36)\nC.A. Dutch Ruppersberger (MD-2)\nBobby L. Rush (IL-5)\nTim Ryan (OH-13)\nGregorio Kilili Camacho Sablan (MP-DL)\nLinda S\u00e1nchez (CA-38)\nLoretta Sanchez (CA-46)\nJohn P. Sarbanes (MD-3)\nJanice D. Schakowsky (IL-9)\nAdam B. Schiff (CA-28)\nBrad Schneider (IL-10)\nKurt Schrader (OR-5)\nAllyson Y. Schwartz (PA-13)\nRobert C. \u201cBobby\u201d Scott (VA-3)\nDavid Scott (GA-13)\nJos\u00e9 E. Serrano (NY-15)\nTerri A. Sewell (AL-7)\nCarol Shea-Porter (NH-1)\nBrad Sherman (CA-30)\nKyrsten Sinema (AZ-9)\nAlbio Sires (NJ-8)\nLouise McIntosh Slaughter (NY-25)\nAdam Smith (WA-9)\nJackie Speier (CA-14)\nEric Swalwell (CA-15)\nMark Takano (CA-41)\nBennie G. Thompson (MS-2)\nMike Thompson (CA-5)\nJohn F. Tierney (MA-6)\nDina Titus (NV-1)\nPaul D. Tonko (NY-20)\nNiki Tsongas (MA-3)\nChris Van Hollen (MD-8)\nJuan Vargas (CA-51)\nMarc A. Veasey (TX-33)\nFilemon Vela (TX-34)\nNydia M. Vel\u00e1zquez (NY-7)\nPeter J. Visclosky (IN-1)\nTimothy J. Walz (MN-1)\nDebbie Wasserman-Schultz (FL-23)\nMaxine Waters (CA-43)\nMel L. Watt (NC-12)\nHenry A. Waxman (CA-33)\nPeter Welch (VT-AL)\nFrederica S. Wilson (FL-24)\nJohn A. Yarmuth (KY-3)", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/rep-pallone-co-sponsors-new-comprehensive-immigration-reform-bill", "Rep. Pallone Co-Sponsors New Comprehensive Immigration Reform Bill", "2013-10-04", "2013", "2013-10", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C - Rep. Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) announced that he is co-sponsoring a comprehensive immigration reform bill, the Border Security, Economic Opportunity, and Immigration Modernization Act, introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives this week by Democrats.\u00a0 This bill is designed to receive bipartisan support in the House.\u00a0 It contains the provisions of the commonsense, comprehensive immigration reform bill that passed the Senate in June by the bipartisan vote of 68 to 32, with one exception.\u00a0 The exception is that it replaces the Corker-Hoeven border security provisions in the Senate-passed bill with the bipartisan provisions of the McCaul-Thompson border security bill that was reported by the House Homeland Security Committee by voice vote in May. \u201cOur immigration system is broken and in need of major repair,\u201d Congressman Pallone said.\u00a0 \u201cBack in June, the Senate acted in a bipartisan way \u2013 with a strong vote of 68 to 32 \u2013 to pass commonsense comprehensive immigration reform.\u00a0 Now it\u2019s the House\u2019s turn.\u201d The only way immigration reform passes in the House is if Democrats and Republicans compromise.\u00a0 That is why House Democrats introduced this week not the perfect immigration reform bill, but a compromise bill that should have no trouble gaining bipartisan support. This bill:\n\u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 For securing our borders, contains the provisions of the bipartisan McCaul-Thompson border security bill that received unanimous approval from the House Homeland Security Committee.\n\u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Contains the same provisions from the bipartisan Senate-passed bill that protect our workers, unite families, and offer hardworking immigrants an earned pathway to citizenship.\n\u00b7\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Also contains the same provisions from the bipartisan Senate-passed bill that reform our visa programs and our interior enforcement.\nAccording to the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office, enactment of the bipartisan Senate-passed comprehensive immigration reform bill would reduce the deficit by $850 billion.\u00a0 CBO also estimates that the Senate-passed bill would increase economic growth by 3.3% in 2023 and 5.4% in 3033. \u201cIt is time for the House to act and pass commonsense immigration reforms and get into a conference with the Senate,\u201d Congressman Pallone concluded.\u00a0 \u201cIt is critical that we get commonsense comprehensive reform enacted into law this year.\u00a0 Comprehensive reform will reduce our deficit, grow our economy, reaffirm our values, advance our ideals, and honor our history as a nation of immigrants.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://sires.house.gov/washington-review-october-4-2013", "Washington Review, October 4, 2013", "2013-10-04", "2013", "2013-10", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Albio Sires", "S001165", "sires.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "This week has been one of the most challenging weeks of this Congress.\u00a0As of today, the government has been officially shut down for 4 days. That is 4 days too many. On October 1st, 800,000 federal employees woke up to discover they could not work and, therefore, would not be paid. Partisan tactics have now become a reality as thousands of Americans anxiously wait to find out when they may return to work and receive the salary that supports their families.\nThis refusal to pass a clean spending bill to keep the government funded must stop.\u00a0 Keeping our government open and operating is a basic, and extremely important, function of Congress.\u00a0I urge my colleagues to bring a clean continuing resolution (CR) before the House of Representatives for a vote to eliminate further damage to our recovering economy and continued uncertainty for the American people.\nAs Congress continues to debate a spending bill, the October 17th deadline to raise the debt ceiling is rapidly approaching. Failure to raise the debt ceiling could prove catastrophic for the U.S. economy as well as the global economy. The U. S. dollar and treasury securities are at the center of the international financial system. A default would be unprecedented\u2014markets could freeze, the value of the dollar could plummet, and U.S. interest rates could skyrocket. These negative events could lead to a financial crisis far worse than what we experienced during the economic crash of 2008.\nWe must ensure economic stability for the future of our nation.\u00a0 Thus, it is my hope that Congress will come together to raise the debt ceiling well before the deadline. \u00a0Raising the debt ceiling does not involve authorizing or appropriating new funds, rather it allows the Department of the Treasury to pay bills that the U.S. has already incurred. It is a necessary measure at no cost to the American taxpayer.\nI understand this has been a challenging week for American workers and families across the nation. I will continue fighting to reopen the government and pass a measure that raises the debt ceiling in a timely manner. If you have any questions or comments please feel free to contact me through my website, Facebook or Twitter. \u00a0\nThank you for reading my Washington Review.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/rep-pallone-millions-more-americans-now-have-access-health-care", "Rep. Pallone: Millions More Americans Now Have Access to Health Care", "2013-10-01", "2013", "2013-10", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC \u2013 Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) released the following statement today, October 1, 2013 on the opening of the health insurance Marketplaces as part of the Affordable Care Act (ACA):\n\u201cThis is the first day in American history when the uninsured are guaranteed the opportunity to sign up for affordable health insurance.\u00a0 Starting today, everyone, not just the healthy, employed or wealthy, can go online and get covered.\u00a0 Health insurance is no longer a privilege, it is a right.\u00a0\n\u201cIn the Marketplaces, New Jerseyans will be able to see all of their health insurance options \u2013 including the new discounted plans that fit their needs. All in one place, all explained simply.\u00a0 Also never again will a hardworking New Jerseyan be denied health coverage for\u00a0 a pre-existing condition and won\u2019t worry about hitting their annual or lifetime limit on coverage, and no women will pay a higher rate than a man.\u00a0\n\u201cWith the online Marketplace, more New Jerseyans will be able to take full advantage of the many benefits of the ACA.\u00a0 Because of the Affordable Care Act, 105 million Americans have already received access to free preventive services, 6.6 million seniors have saved more than $7 billion on their prescription drugs, and more than 100 million Americans have benefited from no longer having a lifetime limit on their coverage.\u00a0 The Marketplaces opening today marks just one more part of the ACA that millions of Americans will benefit from.\u201d\nThe open enrollment period for the first year of the Marketplaces runs from October 1, 2013 through March 31, 2014.\u00a0 New Jerseyans looking for health coverage should go to www.healthcare.gov and by putting in their state and zip code, they will be able to see and compare plans and premiums in our part of the state.\u00a0 If constituents have questions about the Marketplace, they can call 1-800-318-2596, a toll-free hotline open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://payne.house.gov/press-release/payne-statement-republican-government-shutdown", "Payne Statement on Republican Government Shutdown", "2013-10-01", "2013", "2013-10", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Donald Payne", "P000604", "payne.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Following Sunday\u2019s late night Reckless Republican Government Shutdown Bill, House Republicans again failed to pass a bill that would keep the government open.\u00a0 Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. (NJ-10) released the following statement after the shutdown of the United States government.\n\u201cThis is a shameful day for the United States government. Our democracy is supposed to be the example of the world, yet a Republican majority-led House has let a small minority of its caucus hijack this political process and dictate this Republican shutdown.\u00a0 Democrats have already compromised by giving Republicans the budget level they asked for, but Republicans refused to budge.\u00a0 Because of the GOP\u2019s unwillingness to compromise and work for the American people, American families and our economy will pay the price.\n\u201cWith this shutdown, I fear for the families, businesses, and survivors of Hurricane Sandy who will not get the relief they need to recover from the storm.\u00a0 I fear for the veterans who will not get the care or benefits they need.\u00a0 I fear for the pregnant mothers and infants who will not receive the WIC nutritional assistance they need to be healthy.\u00a0 I fear for the entrepreneurs who are counting on a small business loan to get their business up and running, but will have to relinquish their dream.\n\u201cThe Affordable Care Act, which will open for enrollment today, regardless of whether Republicans decided to fund the government or not, has been passed by both chambers of Congress, signed by the president, and held constitutional by the Supreme Court of the United States. It is the law of the land.\u00a0 Republicans have the ability to debate the Affordable Care Act if they choose, but they have failed to ever offer a realistic alternative, instead resorting to more than 45 futile defunding attempts even if it means sabotaging our economy like they did tonight.\n\u201cRepublicans stubbornly refused to negotiate, knowing full-well that they were going to shut down the government, and in fact the extreme faction in their party was even cheering for this Republican shutdown.\u00a0 Now, Republicans have the American people to answer to, and the American people will not forget:\u00a0 Tonight, for the first time in 17 years, House Republicans are responsible for shutting down the American government.\u201d\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://sires.house.gov/press-release/congressman-sires%E2%80%99-statement-republican-government-shutdown", "Congressman Sires\u2019 Statement on the Republican Government Shutdown", "2013-10-01", "2013", "2013-10", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Albio Sires", "S001165", "sires.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "For Immediate Release\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Contact: Erica Daughtrey\nOctober 1, 2013\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 201-309-0301\nCongressman Sires\u2019 Statement on the Republican Government Shutdown\n(Washington, D.C.)- Today, Congressman Sires released the following statement in response to the government shutdown as a result of House leadership\u2019s refusal to bring to a vote a clean Continuing Resolution (CR):\n\u201cLast night, the Republicans in the House majority voted for the fourth time on a reckless spending bill that is a non-starter with the Senate and President Obama.\u00a0 Their refusal to retreat from their extreme, ideological demands is taking our country down a dangerous path that will hurt our economy, threaten job creation, and leave families with less security, and our country with less certainty and stability.\nToday, 800,000 federal employees woke up to discover that they cannot work nor get paid.\u00a0 This refusal to pass a clean spending legislation to keep the government funded has got to stop.\u00a0 Partisan tactics have now become reality as thousands of Americans anxiously wait when they can go back to work and support their families.\nThe Republicans latest maneuver was passing a measure in the middle of the night to request a conference with the Senate to negotiate a spending measure.\u00a0 I am supportive of budget negotiations for a comprehensive plan that addresses responsible government spending, but not for a last ditch effort that only guarantees a continued government shutdown.\u00a0 Keeping our government running is a basic function of Congress.\u00a0 Attaching unrelated policy measures to a simple funding resolution is unacceptable.\u00a0\nMy Democratic colleagues in the House of Representatives have even looked to compromise with Republicans by offering a lower funding level in the CR to a level previously supported by Republicans, but that offer was rejected.\u00a0 I urge my colleagues across the aisle to pass a clean CR to ensure our recovering economy does not suffer more damage, as well as the American people.\u201d\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://payne.house.gov/press-release/payne-opposes-reckless-republican-government-shutdown-bill", "Payne Opposes Reckless Republican Government Shutdown Bill", "2013-09-29", "2013", "2013-09", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Donald Payne", "P000604", "payne.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "\u201cTonight, House Republicans recklessly voted to shut down the government, hurting America\u2019s families and risking the financial stability of our economy. It is irresponsible that House Republican\u00a0leadership would bow to an extreme minority that is obsessed with defunding the Affordable Care Act and is willing to sabotage the government and throw our economy off a cliff.\u00a0 Regardless of what Republicans try to proclaim, a \u201cyes\u201d vote tonight was a disastrous vote to shut down the government.\u00a0\n\u201cThis bill denies\u00a0the ability for nearly 50 million uninsured Americans to have\u00a0access to\u00a0quality, affordable health care and actually creates more spending by delaying the Affordable Care Act for a year.\u00a0 A government shutdown will cost the American people $150 million a day the government is closed.\u00a0 It will deprive pregnant women and infants nutritional assistance; it will\u00a0lead to disruptions in veterans\u2019 benefit payments, Social Security payments, and SBA loans for small businesses; and it will\u00a0threaten our national security.\n\u201cThe complete lack of leadership and political courage demonstrated by the House Republican leadership is disappointing. Eighty percent of the American people believe that threatening a government shutdown during budget debates is unacceptable. The House GOP is either completely out of touch with the people they have been elected to represent, or even worse, they simply do not care that they are hurting millions of people and their families. The American people deserve the truth: House Republicans are solely responsible for a government shutdown.\u201d\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-lauds-bill-improve-safety-prescription-drug-compounding-and-drug-supply-chain", "Pallone Lauds Bill to Improve Safety of Prescription Drug Compounding and Drug Supply Chain", "2013-09-28", "2013", "2013-09", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2014 Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) praised the passage in the U. S. House of Representatives of a bill that would to help ensure the safety of compounded drugs and our nation\u2019s pharmaceutical supply chain.\u00a0 Pallone, the top Democrat on the House Energy and Commerce Health Subcommittee, was a coauthor of the bipartisan Drug Quality and Security Act, H.R. 3204.\u00a0 The bill came in part in response to last year\u2019s tragic meningitis outbreak in Massachusetts caused by contaminated compounded drugs mixed at the New England Compounding Center, which killed 64 people and sickened 750 more.\u00a0\n\u201cToday we are taking a critical step forward in securing the safety of our drug supply chain by creating a product tracing system and improving the quality of compounded drugs, which unfortunately have operated in the past under a faulty law.\u00a0 This legislation will allow FDA to require higher standards for certain drugs and better protect the public health,\u201d said Pallone.\nCompounding pharmacies mix drugs tailored to specific patient needs.\u00a0 This legislation clarifies current federal law regarding traditional pharmacy compounding applies a uniform standard nationwide. \u00a0Compounders will have the opportunity to register as outsourcing facilities subject to oversight by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in much the same way as traditional manufacturers are monitored.\u00a0 FDA will know who these outsourcers are and what they are making, receive adverse event reports about compounded drugs, and have the authority and resources to conduct risk-based inspections.\u00a0\nThe second title of the bill would create a new uniform framework for tracking drugs from the manufacturer to the pharmacy. There is currently no system for tracking the drugs that make up some four billion prescriptions per year in the United States, which means drugs that are stolen or counterfeit may not be discovered before reaching consumers.\n\u00a0\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-announces-18-million-grant-repair-sandy-damage-old-bridge-waterfront-park", "Pallone Announces $1.8 Million Grant to Repair Sandy Damage at Old Bridge Waterfront Park", "2013-09-27", "2013", "2013-09", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. announced that FEMA has awarded $1,833.961 in federal funding to Middlesex County to repair the beach, dunes and groins at the Old Bridge Waterfront Park damaged as a result of Hurricane Sandy.\u00a0 This area sustained significant damage during Sandy and this FEMA funding, which will pay for 90% of the total project cost, will work to restore the area to pre-storm conditions.\n\u201cThis critical funding will bring us a step closer to rebuilding the Old Bridge Waterfront Park, and help restore normalcy in the aftermath of Superstorm Sandy,\u201d said Pallone.\u00a0 \u201cWe still have a long way to go to, but I am pleased to see that there is positive movement toward rebuilding from the storm.\u201d\u00a0\nThe work for this project has been divided into two geographical sections. Section 1 will include installing 54,400 cubic yards of sand to the beach, repairing the dunes by placing 4,630 cubic yards of sand with plantings for erosion control, and repairing the groins by installing handrails and fixing damaged concrete. Section 2 will include installing 5,500 cubic yards of sand to the beach.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-announces-625000-grant-hire-5-cops-asbury-park", "Pallone Announces $625,000 Grant to Hire 5 Cops in Asbury Park", "2013-09-27", "2013", "2013-09", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Long Branch, NJ\u00a0\u2013 Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) announced that five police officers in Asbury Park will be hired as a direct result of a grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Justice Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS). \u00a0The COPS Hiring Program fully funds entry-level salaries and benefits for full-time police officers over a three-year period.\u00a0\n\u201cSafety is essential to the future growth and success of our communities, and I believe that having five additional officers on the Asbury Park Police Force will make a significant difference on our streets.\u00a0 This is a wise investment that will benefit children and families in Asbury Park,\u201d said Pallone.\nAsbury Park Police Department and other grantees for the 2013 hiring program were selected based on their fiscal needs, local crime rates, and their community policing plans.\nThe COPS Office is a federal agency responsible for advancing community policing nationwide. Since 1995, COPS has awarded over $14 billion to advance community policing, including grants awarded to more than 13,000 state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies to fund the hiring and redeployment of approximately 125,000 officers and provide a variety of knowledge resource products including publications, training, and technical assistance.\nFor the entire list of grantees and additional information about the 2013 COPS Hiring Program, visit the COPS website at www.cops.usdoj.gov.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://payne.house.gov/press-release/payne-celebrates-court-decision-legalize-same-sex-marriage-new-jersey", "Payne Celebrates Court Decision to Legalize Same-Sex Marriage in New Jersey", "2013-09-27", "2013", "2013-09", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Donald Payne", "P000604", "payne.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Newark, N.J. \u2013 Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. (NJ-10) released the following statement after a New Jersey state court ruled in Garden State Equality v. Dow that the state must allow same-sex couples to marry:\n\u201cToday we celebrate equality in New Jersey as the court\u2019s decision to legalize same-sex marriage in the state is long overdue. Currently, thousands of couples in New Jersey are denied the equal protection under the law and the benefits that they deserve.\u00a0 Many have fought long and hard for true equality and basic civil rights, and today is a tremendous triumph. I strongly urge the state to implement the court\u2019s ruling without hesitation and without delay. Although there is still so much more work to be done to ensure that every American is granted full equality, I am very happy for the people of New Jersey that this day is finally here.\u201d\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://sires.house.gov/washington-review-september-27-2013", "Washington Review, September 27, 2013", "2013-09-27", "2013", "2013-09", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Albio Sires", "S001165", "sires.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "This past week in Congress has been one of the more challenging weeks of the session.\u00a0 The fiscal year will end on Monday, and if Congress does not pass a Continuing Resolution to keep the government funded, it will shut down.\u00a0 Furthermore, we are faced with an added challenge on October 17th when the debt ceiling will need to be raised in order for the United States to avoid default on its debt.\u00a0\nOver a week ago, the House of Representatives passed a Continuing Resolution that I feel was unacceptable.\u00a0 In order to keep the government open, it would require the defunding of the Affordable Care Act which is set to begin offering affordable healthcare coverage to the uninsured on October 1st.\u00a0 The Senate is currently reviewing this resolution and is expected to remove the language defunding the Affordable Care Act before sending it back to the House of Representatives for a final vote.\u00a0 It is my hope that, before midnight on Monday, the House will pass a clean Continuing Resolution to keep our government open.\u00a0\nThere has also been discussion amongst the majority in the House of Representatives to present a resolution that would suspend the debt ceiling for a year. However, attached to this resolution there would be a variety of provisions completely unrelated to the debt limit, including changes to Medicare and environmental regulations.\u00a0 Raising the debt ceiling does not involve authorizing or appropriating new funds, rather it allows the Department of the Treasury to pay bills that the U.S. has already incurred.\u00a0 I do not believe that now is the time to play politics with our economy.\u00a0 As our economy is recovering, it is imperative that Congress quickly come together and pass clean legislation to keep our government functioning and our credit sustained.\u00a0 As the process for funding the government will be fluid over the next several days, I will keep you informed of the situation.\nAdditionally, this week, members of the House Foreign Affairs and Senate Foreign Relations Committees met with Vice President Biden to discuss specific issues and initiatives pertinent to the Western Hemisphere.\u00a0\u00a0 The meeting came at the heels of Vice President Biden\u2019s recent visit to Mexico where he met with President Enrique Pe\u00f1a Nieto.\u00a0\u00a0 The discussion involved U.S. efforts to maintain and strengthen our relationships with Mexico and Brazil.\u00a0 Also discussed was the need to focus more intently on the region and on ways the United States can provide greater support for the security and development of our southern neighbors.\nLastly, if you are currently uninsured, I encourage you to visit www.healthcare.gov on October 1st when the new Health Insurance Marketplace for New Jersey consumers will open.\u00a0 According to a recent report by the Department of Health and Human Services, New Jersey consumers will be able to choose from an average of 29 health plans in the Marketplace.\u00a0 At www.healthcare.gov you will be able to apply for health insurance, as well as subsidies to assist in paying for coverage if you are eligible.\nOne again, thank you for reading the Washington Review, if you have any questions or comments please feel free to contact me through my website, Facebook or Twitter.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-announces-contract-awarded-asbury-park-avon-sea-beach-replenishment-project", "Pallone Announces Contract Awarded for Asbury Park to Avon-by-the-Sea Beach Replenishment Project", "2013-09-26", "2013", "2013-09", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Long Branch, NJ \u2013 Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) announced that the contract has been awarded and work will begin in December on an $18.3 million beach replenishment project from Asbury Park to Avon-by-the-Sea.\u00a0 This Army Corps of Engineers project, which is funded at full federal expense, will restore beaches in Asbury Park, Ocean Grove, Bradley Beach, and Avon-By-The-Sea, to conditions better than prior to Sandy and was made possible by the Sandy aid package passed by Congress. \u00a0The contractor, Great Lakes Dredge and Dock Company, will use over one million cubic yards of sand for the project and is estimated to be completed in early May of 2014. \u201cI\u2019m pleased that the Army Corps is moving forward with this important investment that will help to protect homes and businesses from future flooding, as well as repair the destruction caused by Sandy,\u201d said Pallone.\u00a0 \u201cOur beaches are a fundamental part of life here on the shore, both for residents to enjoy and also to drive tourism.\u00a0 I have fought for this and other beach replenishment projects for years because I know how important they are to protect some of our most fragile coastal infrastructure.\u201d\nThe beach replenishment from Asbury Park to Avon is part of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers\u2019 larger effort that covers a majority of the beaches from Sea Bright to Manasquan, which is the largest beach nourishment project ever undertaken by the Army Corps and the world\u2019s biggest beach-fill project, in terms of sand volume.\u00a0 Once completed, the greater protective barrier between the coastal communities and the ocean will reduce the risk of flooding and storm related damages.\nThe contract awarded today is the last of four contracts to be awarded for the overall Sea Bright to Manasquan beach replenishment project.\u00a0 The contract for Sea Bright and Monmouth Beach was awarded in June and is nearing completion.\u00a0 The Long Branch contract was awarded in August with work set to begin in November. \u00a0Work will begin for the Belmar to Manasquan portion of the project in late October. \u00a0The Army Corps of Engineers expects to complete the entire project by mid-2014.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-announces-new-report-low-cost-premiums-new-jersey%E2%80%99s-health-insurance", "Pallone Announces New Report on Low Cost Premiums in New Jersey\u2019s Health Insurance Marketplace", "2013-09-25", "2013", "2013-09", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Long Branch, NJ \u2013 Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06), top Democrat on the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health, announced a new report released today by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) that finds New Jersey consumers will see increased competition in the Health Insurance Marketplace, leading to new and affordable choices for consumers.\u00a0 According to the report, New Jersey consumers will be able to choose from an average of 29 health plans in the Marketplace.\u00a0\n\u201cWith low cost rates, I\u2019m excited New Jersey\u2019s online health insurance marketplace will open next week with affordable choices for the uninsured and underinsured to gain the coverage they need.\u00a0 This is very good news for New Jersey\u2019s hard working families and further evidence of the many benefits of the Affordable Care Act despite Republican\u2019s repeated effort to undermine, defund, and obstruct the implementation of this historic law,\u201d said Pallone.\nBeginning October 1, the new Marketplace will be open for business where New Jerseyans will be able to shop for and purchase health insurance coverage in one place.\u00a0 Consumers will be able to find out whether they qualify for premium assistance and compare plans side-by-side based on pricing, quality and benefits.\u00a0 No one can be denied coverage because of a preexisting condition.\u00a0 The first open enrollment period runs through March 2014, and coverage begins as early as January 1.\nPlans in the Marketplace will be categorized as either \u201cgold,\u201d \u201csilver,\u201d or \u201cbronze.\u201d\u00a0 Young adults will also have the option of purchasing a \u201ccatastrophic\u201d plan, increasing their number of choices. \u00a0\nIn New Jersey, the average premium for the lowest-cost silver plan will be $382 per month and for the lowest cost bronze plan it will be $332 per month. \u00a0For example, the report shows that a 27-year old living in New Jersey who makes $25,000 per year will pay $145 per month for the second lowest cost silver plan and $103 per month for the lowest cost bronze plan, taking into account tax credits.\u00a0 For a family of four in New Jersey with an income of $50,000 per year, the lowest bronze plan would cost only $131 per month.\nConsumers can get help finding Marketplace coverage through a number of different resources.\u00a0 They can get more information through\u00a0HealthCare.gov, or\u00a0cuidadodesalud.gov.\u00a0\u00a0 They can participate in an online web chat, or call 1-800-318-2596 toll free (TTY: 1-855-889-4325) to speak with a trained customer service representative with translation services available in 150 languages.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-rallies-new-jerseyans-getcovered-starting-oct-1", "Pallone Rallies New Jerseyans to #GetCovered Starting Oct. 1", "2013-09-24", "2013", "2013-09", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "New Brunswick, NJ- Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06), top Democrat on the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on Health, touted the upcoming opportunity starting October 1 for New Jerseyans to sign up for affordable health care coverage through the new marketplace made possible by the Affordable Care Act (ACA).\u00a0 Pallone was joined Tuesday at the Children\u2019s Specialized Hospital in New Brunswick with the hospital\u2019s President and CEO, Amy Mansue and also Justine Ceserano, New Jersey State Director of Enroll America, whose mission is to maximize the number of uninsured Americans who enroll in health coverage made available by the ACA.\u00a0\nThe open enrollment period for the first year of the new online marketplaces runs from October 1, 2013 through March 31, 2014.\u00a0 For those who enroll by December 15, health coverage will begin on January 1, 2014.\u00a0 In New Jersey, more than 610,000 people will be eligible for the new health insurance premium discounts in 2014.\n\u201cNext Tuesday, the new online Marketplace, healthcare.gov, will be open for business, providing New Jerseyans with a very simple and fast way to get health insurance that will meet their needs, their lifestyle, and their budget at any income level,\u201d said Pallone.\u00a0 \u201cToday, over 900,000 or 13% of New Jersey\u2019s non-elderly residents are uninsured, but very soon, that number will begin to drop when hundreds of thousands of New Jersey\u2019s hard working families can gain some peace of mind when it comes to affording their health care and getting the coverage they need.\u201d\nAlso beginning October 1, 395,000 more New Jerseyans will be eligible for coverage through Medicaid expansion thanks to the ACA.\u00a0 This applies to people with the lowest incomes \u2013 those with incomes below 138 percent of the federal poverty level.\n\u201cTwo-thirds of the nation\u2019s children who are uninsured are eligible for either Medicaid or the Children's Health Insurance Program. Their parents are working but do not have insurance and therefore they think their children don't have access to health coverage,\u201d said Amy B. Mansue, president and CEO, Children\u2019s Specialized Hospital.\u00a0 \u201cHaving one system that will easily determine if they are eligible and the price of the premium is a huge step forward in helping our children receive the quality healthcare they deserve.\u201d\nPallone also spoke about the many ways New Jerseyans are already benefiting from the ACA like, for example, health plans are now required to allow parents to keep their children under age 26 without job-based coverage on their family coverage.\u00a0 Over 70,000 young adults in New Jersey gained or were able to keep their insurance coverage as a result of these provisions.\nAmericans looking for health coverage should go to www.healthcare.gov.\u00a0 If they have questions, they can call 1-800-318-2596, a toll-free hotline open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/rep-pallone-sen-menendez-announce-28-million-federal-grant-rutgers-universitys-center", "Rep. Pallone, Sen. Menendez Announce $2.8 Million Federal Grant to Rutgers University's Center for Advanced Infrastructure and Transportation", "2013-09-24", "2013", "2013-09", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013U.S. Senator Robert Menendez and U.S. Rep. Frank Pallone (both D-NJ) today announced a U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) grant award of $2,828,200 to Rutgers University\u2019s Center for Advanced Infrastructure and Transportation (CAIT).\n\u201cNew Jersey\u2019s transportation infrastructure is critical to our economy and our daily lives, and Rutgers University\u2019s Center for Advanced Infrastructure and Transportation helps us make the most of our existing infrastructure while educating the next generation of transportation professionals and developing new technologies for the future,\u201d said Senator Menendez. \u201cAs the federal budget has become tighter, the competition for these grant dollars has intensified and it is a real credit to the quality of Rutgers University\u2019s program that these federal resources continue to be provided to New Jersey.\u201d\n\u201cInfrastructure across the country is in need of modernization.\u00a0 Rutgers University\u2019s Center for Advanced Infrastructure and Transportation uses innovative technologies that lead to faster construction and longer-lasting, efficient and safe highways and bridges.\u00a0 In a state as densely populated as New Jersey, infrastructure investment and more efficient transportation construction are critical to keeping us moving,\u201d said Congressman Pallone.\n\u201cCAIT is proud that USDOT has recognized the research program we\u2019ve been building for more than 15 years. This is CAIT\u2019s fourth University Transportation Center (UTC) competition, but the first time we\u2019ve reached National UTC status,\u201d said CAIT Director Ali Maher, Ph.D.\n\u201cThis award is an opportunity for us to transform our efforts\u2014which to date have largely been on a local, state, or regional level\u2014into a truly national platform that will encourage and facilitate seamless integration among agencies, industry, and universities across the country. In theory that sounds simple, but in practice it\u2019s very challenging. Our first step toward this collaborative vision was gathering a group of previously fragmented individual centers of excellence into a consortium that leverages its collective resources to turn out the kind of practical research that can be applied and have an impact in the real world\u2014right here, right now. Our primary concern is to address pressing infrastructure issues that affect people\u2019s everyday lives. Whether it\u2019s increasing safety, reducing congestion, improving the environment, finding a better way to fix a bridge, or developing tools that ensure money invested in infrastructure yields maximum benefits\u2014all these things are directly tied to a healthy economy and good quality of life. CAIT has always concentrated on identifying area-specific needs for real stakeholders facing real challenges and offered insight or solutions that have an immediate effect on the operation and management of bridges, roads, ports, energy and water networks, and so forth. We will continue to do that, but now we\u2019re going to take it to the next level and find new ways we can contribute to making this country\u2019s infrastructure better and stronger.\u201d\nRutgers University\u2019s CAIT program, located in Piscataway, N.J., helps develop safer, more durable, and more efficient infrastructure and transportation systems.\nCLICK HERE for more information about Rutgers\u2019 CAIT program.\nCAIT is one of only five National University Transportation Centers (UTCs), an elite group of academic research institutions that are sanctioned and supported by the USDOT. National UTCs are internationally recognized as the United States' premier university-based centers of excellence for transportation research. They serve as a vital source of infrastructure solutions and transportation professionals who are prepared to meet the nation\u2019s need for safe, efficient and environmentally sound movement of people and goods.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-commemorates-anniversary-independence-republic-armenia", "Pallone Commemorates the Anniversary of Independence for the Republic of Armenia", "2013-09-20", "2013", "2013-09", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC \u2013 Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06), Co-Chair and Founder of the Congressional Caucus on Armenian Issues, made the following statement on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives to commemorate the Anniversary of Independence for the Republic of Armenia:\n\u201cMr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 22nd anniversary of independence for the Republic of Armenia.\u00a0 On September 21st, 1991 Armenia gained its independence from the Soviet Union and the Caucuses region saw new opportunities as well as new challenges.\u00a0 I am proud to say that the Republic of Armenia has taken on those opportunities and challenges with great success and is now an important democratic ally of the United States.\u00a0 Eighteen years ago, I helped found the Congressional Caucus on Armenian Issues and have served as a co-chair of the caucus since that time.\u00a0 Together, our two countries continue to work towards developing greater economic ties including trade and investment and seek to build regional stability.\u00a0 Here in Congress, the Armenia Caucus is working towards these ends.\u00a0 I ask my colleagues in Congress to join me, along with the Armenian people and Armenian Americans across the country in celebrating 22 years of Armenian independence.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://payne.house.gov/press-release/payne-introduces-safe-our-schools-act", "Payne Introduces SAFE In Our Schools Act", "2013-09-20", "2013", "2013-09", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Donald Payne", "P000604", "payne.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. (NJ-10) authored and introduced the \u201cSecure America for Education in Our Schools Act\u201d or the \u201cS.A.F.E. in Our Schools Act,\u201d which would require each State applying for State Homeland Security Grant Program funding to certify that it requires schools to have adequate emergency preparedness plans in place in case of disaster.\u00a0 At a Subcommittee Hearing entitled, \u201cAssessing the Nation\u2019s State of Preparedness: A Federal, State, and Local Perspective,\u201d Kathy Spangler, Vice President of U.S. Programs at Save the Children commended Rep. Payne, Jr. on his efforts and fully endorsed the SAFE in Our Schools Act.\n\u201cEvery day while more than 50 million children go to school, most Americans take for granted that their child will be safe once they walk through the school house doors,\u201d said Rep. Payne, Jr., Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Emergency Preparedness, Response, and Communications and author of the bill.\u00a0 \u201cUnfortunately, this is not always the case. Most recently we have seen an increase in the number of natural and man-made disasters that put our children in danger, from Hurricane Sandy and the shootings at Newtown, to the Oklahoma tornadoes and the Colorado floods. We have a responsibility to protect our children, and I want to thank Save the Children for their support of my legislation and for all of their hard work in making sure that our children remain a priority in our disaster planning and preparedness efforts.\u201d\n\u201cPast experience has shown us that children have unique needs when it comes to preparing for and responding to emergencies and potential disasters,\u201d said Rep. Bennie Thompson (D-MS), Ranking Member of the Committee on Homeland Security and co-sponsor of the bill.\u00a0 \u201cToo often, these needs are not met when state and local governments craft homeland security preparedness policy.\u00a0 I commend Ranking Member Payne, Jr. for introducing the \u2018S.A.F.E. in Our Schools Act\u2019 which will ensure that schools have the proper preparedness plans in place in case of emergency.\u201d\nFollowing Hurricane Katrina, Congress established a National Commission on Children and Disasters to assess the unique needs of children related to the preparation for, response to, and recovery from all hazards, including major disasters and emergencies.\u00a0 In 2010, the Commission identified four essential components to a basic school and child care facilities preparedness plan.\u00a0 These four essential components include: (1) an evacuation and relocation plan; (2) a family-child reunification plan; (3) a plan for children with special needs; and (4) a plan for addressing multiple disasters.\u00a0\nThe SAFE in our Schools Act would require all States applying for State Homeland Security Grant Program funding to show that it requires its schools to have an emergency plan that meets the four essential criteria outlined in the 2010 National Commission on Children and Disasters.\n\u201cRight now, 28 states do not require schools and child care facilities to have emergency preparedness and resiliency plans that fully address these four essential components, while 7 states do not require K-12 schools to have multiple disaster plans,\u201d continued Rep. Payne, Jr. \u00a0\u201cI am proud to say that New Jersey is one of the few states that addresses all four emergency preparedness criteria.\u00a0 I believe that every state owes it to our children, who are the most vulnerable among us, to have a plan in place that ensures schools are prepared for and resilient against any disaster.\u201d\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://sires.house.gov/hr-3102-statement-record", "H.R. 3102, Statement for the Record", "2013-09-20", "2013", "2013-09", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Albio Sires", "S001165", "sires.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Congressman albio Sires\nStatement For the Record\nThursday, September 19, 2013\n(Mr./Madam) Speaker, I rise today to express my serious concern about H.R. 3102: the so called \u201cNutrition Reform and Work Opportunity Act of 2013\u201d.\u00a0 At a time when so many Americans are still struggling to recover from one of the greatest periods of economic downturn in our history, it is an outrage to me that Congress would once again seek to cut vital food assistance programs.\nThese are programs that ensure our children, our parents and grandparents, and America\u2019s working families get basic nutritional aide when they\u2019ve fallen on hard times. And the timing couldn\u2019t be worse. \u00a0Just last year, as a result of the short sighted budget cuts known as sequestration, many of our seniors were already hit hard by cuts to programs like Meals on Wheels. Some estimates put those cuts as high as 19 million fewer meals each year.\u00a0 And now Congress wants to cut food stamps for millions of Americans?\u00a0 \u00a0\nLet me be clear, food stamps are critical to the health and wellbeing of our Nation\u2019s most vulnerable populations.\u00a0 \u00a0In New Jersey\u2019s 8th District, nearly thirty eight thousand (38,000) households rely on this benefit to feed their families.\u00a0 \u00a0Statewide, 45 percent of recipients are children and nearly 25 percent are either elderly or disabled adults.\nI understand the need to bring our budget under control, but I encourage my colleagues to find a smarter path forward.\u00a0 Let us not balance the budget on the backs of those among us who are the most vulnerable.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://sires.house.gov/press-release/sires-rejects-disastrous-food-aid-bill", "Sires Rejects Disastrous Food Aid Bill", "2013-09-20", "2013", "2013-09", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Albio Sires", "S001165", "sires.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "For Immediate Release\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Contact: Erica Daughtrey\nSeptember 20, 2013\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 201-309-0301\nSires Rejects Disastrous Food Aid Bill\nWashington, D.C - Congressman Sires voted against H.R. 3102: the so called \u201cNutrition Reform and Work Opportunity Act of 2013\u201d. This misguided legislation would strip food stamp aid from millions of Americans, with hundreds of thousands more seeing reductions to their already limited benefits. \u00a0\n\u201cFood aid programs such as food stamps ensure our children, our parents and grandparents, and America\u2019s working families get basic nutritional aid when they\u2019ve fallen on hard times,\u201d Congressman Sires said.\u00a0 \u201cIt is unconscionable that Congress is once again attempting to balance our budget on the backs of those who are most vulnerable, while so many Americans are still struggling through the economic recovery.\u201d\u00a0\nThe nutrition title, which has historically been included in the farm bill, provides funding for food assistance programs including the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), the Emergency Food Assistance Program, and the Commodity Supplemental Program.\u00a0 These programs ensure that American families and seniors have access to the food they need, that our food banks are stocked, and that our children have access to a nutritious breakfast and lunch at school.\u00a0 Despite widespread objection, H.R. 3102 narrowly passed in the House by a vote of 217 to 210.\n\u201cA healthy, vibrant democracy is dependent upon a healthy, vibrant population.\u00a0 Unfortunately, this bill only creates more insecurity for American families.\u201d stated Congressman Sires.\u00a0 \u201cI urge my colleagues in the House to reconsider this short-sighted effort, which only stands to harm those who go to bed hungry each night.\u00a0 As a nation, I believe we are capable of far better than that.\u201d \u00a0\u00a0\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://sires.house.gov/washington-review-september-20-2013", "Washington Review, September 20, 2013", "2013-09-20", "2013", "2013-09", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Albio Sires", "S001165", "sires.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Congress remains focused on domestic issues that are affecting the economy and the well-being of our nation such as food assistance programs and water resources. The House of Representatives just passed H.R. 3102, the \u201cNutrition Reform Opportunity Act\u201d. I voted against this misguided legislation which strips food stamp aid from millions of Americans with hundreds of thousands more seeing reductions in their already limited benefits. \u00a0Food aid programs ensure that America\u2019s working families receive basic nutritional aid when they\u2019ve fallen on hard times. It is disappointing that the House Majority is, once again, attempting to balance our budget on the backs of those who are most vulnerable while so many Americans are still struggling through the economic recovery.\nOn a positive note, the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure came together in a bipartisan effort this week to pass smart, sensible legislation. I was proud to support H.R. 3080, the Water Resources Reform and Development Act. This legislation reauthorizes the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA)\u2014legislation responsible for authorizing the water resources program of the Army Corps of Engineers\u2014for the first time since 2007.\u00a0 Passage of a new WRDA bill is good for New Jersey\u2019s 8th district and for our nation.\u00a0 It will keep Army Corps projects moving forward and contains important reforms to ensure a larger share of money generated for harbor maintenance by New Jersey\u2019s ports stays right here in New Jersey. H.R. 3080 will now move to the House floor for consideration.\nFollowing last week\u2019s Washington Review, I received a number of emails with your comments and concerns about current issues. I appreciate your feedback and will try to incorporate some of your suggestions. I invite you to stay connected this week through my website, Facebook or Twitter. \u00a0Once again, thank you for reading the Washington Review.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-introduces-new-bill-modernize-food-labeling", "Pallone Introduces New Bill to Modernize Food Labeling", "2013-09-19", "2013", "2013-09", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC \u2013 Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06), Senior Democrat on the House Energy and Commerce Health Subcommittee, introduced his new legislation, the \u201cFood Labeling Modernization Act of 2013,\u201d which attempts to cut down on confusing and misleading information that consumers encounter on food packages today. Pallone was joined by Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), who introduced the legislation in the Senate, and the bill\u2019s co-sponsor Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03).\nNutrition information, ingredient lists, and health-related claims on food labels can play an important role in the battle against obesity and diet-related disease, which are responsible for hundreds of thousands of premature deaths in the United States each year, as well as increased health care costs.\u00a0 Food labeling requirements, however, are in need of a major overhaul. \u00a0Major food labeling provisions of the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act have not been updated since 1990 and in some cases have not been changed since 1938.\u00a0 As a result, labels do not provide the information that today\u2019s consumer needs to evaluate and compare products in order to make healthy choices.\nThe Food Labeling Modernization Act looks at food labeling reform in a comprehensive manner, addressing front-of-package labeling, misleading health claims, and requiring updates to the Nutrition Facts Panel and the ingredient list.\n\u00a0\u201cChildhood obesity has nearly tripled in the past 30 years and is a huge public health problem in this country that puts millions of American children at risk. Healthy eating is critical to combating this epidemic.\u00a0 That is why it is so important that when families make the effort to eat nutritious, healthy food, the labels on food products help them make the right choices\u2014not confuse or mislead them,\u201d said Congressman Pallone.\u00a0 \u201cThe Food Labeling Modernization Act is a comprehensive approach to updating labels so that consumers have the clear, consistent information they need when making important decisions about the food they buy and give to their families.\u201d\u00a0\nIn an effort to help consumers select healthy products, the Food Labeling Modernization Act\u2019s signature initiative will direct the Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary to establish a single, standard front of package nutrition labeling system in a timely manner for all food products required to bear nutrition labeling.\nThe bill will also strengthen current law to target trends in marketing that confuse or mislead consumers when they are attempting to compare food products.\u00a0 Specifically, the legislation will require new guidelines for the use of the words \u201chealthy\u201d or \u201cmade with whole grain.\u201d The bill also requires the percent daily values for calories and sugar, as well as the amount of sugar that is not naturally occurring, be listed on the Nutrition Facts Panel.\n\"This bill would give consumers confidence that the claims they read on food labels-- like 'healthy,' 'natural,' 'made with whole grains,' and so on--are grounded in reality,\" said CSPI executive director Michael F. Jacobson. \u00a0\"Simply by making ingredient lists legible, this bill would be a historic advance for consumers. \u00a0Anyone who shops or eats should support the efforts of Senator Blumenthal and Representatives Pallone and DeLauro to end the chaos on food labels.\"\nAmi Gadhia, senior policy counsel for Consumers Union said, \u201cMany of the labels on food currently don\u2019t give consumers all the information they need to make informed decisions about the food they buy. This legislation would take a big, common sense step forward in improving the nutrition information available about the food that consumers are putting in their cart and on their kitchen tables.\u201d\nMore information available on the Food Labeling Modernization Act of 2013 available: here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://payne.house.gov/press-release/payne-votes-against-increasing-hunger-america", "Payne Votes Against Increasing Hunger in America", "2013-09-19", "2013", "2013-09", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Donald Payne", "P000604", "payne.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Today, Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. voted against the \u201cNutrition Reform and Work Opportunity Act,\u201d Republican legislation which cuts basic food aid (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program/SNAP) by nearly $40 billion, kicking nearly 4 million Americans off the program next year.\u00a0 The measure passed by a vote of 217 to 210.\n\u201cToday, I stood up for the hungry people across America, including the one million people on SNAP here in New Jersey,\u201d Rep. Payne, Jr. said. \u201cIt\u2019s completely unconscionable that Republicans would propose cutting SNAP by nearly $40 billion when 1 in 4 children in this country go to bed hungry. These draconian cuts will take the food out the mouths of nearly 4 million Americans next year alone, hurting children, seniors, and veterans the most.\u201d\n\u201cSNAP is a vital tool to fight hunger and help struggling Americans feed their families as they seek new employment, send their children to school, and get themselves back on their feet.\u00a0 More than 90 percent of people on SNAP are children, the elderly, disabled, or already working, but still struggle to put food on the table since SNAP benefits amount to only $1.50 per meal here in New Jersey,\u201d Rep. Payne, Jr. continued.\nThe bill contains a number of provisions that ignore the reality that nearly 400,000 New Jerseyans continue to struggle with unemployment.\u00a0 For example, the bill would end governors\u2019 ability to waive SNAP\u2019s harsh time limit for people looking for work in time of high unemployment.\u00a0 Further, the House bill will cut school lunches for over 200,000 children and eliminate food assistance for 170,000 veterans.\u00a0\n\u201cMembers of Congress who voted for this bill need to re-examine their consciences because today\u2019s shameful vote for this bill was a vote against the 1 in 4 children who go hungry in this country and the millions more who could be lifted out of poverty with some basic nutrition assistance,\u201d Rep. Payne, Jr. concluded.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://sires.house.gov/press-release/congressman-sires-hails-passage-wrrda-bill", "Congressman Sires Hails Passage of WRRDA Bill", "2013-09-19", "2013", "2013-09", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Albio Sires", "S001165", "sires.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "For Immediate Release\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Contact: Erica Daughtrey\nSeptember 19, 2013\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 201-309-0301\nCongressman Sires Hails Passage of WRRDA Bill\nWashington, D.C - Today, Congressman Sires proudly supported H.R. 3080, the Water Resources Reform and Development Act, which passed unanimously out of the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure.\u00a0 This bipartisan legislation reauthorizes the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA)\u2014legislation responsible for authorizing the water resources program of the Army Corps of Engineers\u2014for the first time since 2007.\n\u201cPassage of a new WRDA bill is good for New Jersey\u2019s 8th district, and for our nation,\u201d Congressman Sires said.\u00a0 \u201cThis bill will keep Army Corps projects moving forward, and contains important reforms to ensure a larger share of money generated for harbor maintenance by New Jersey\u2019s ports stays right here in New Jersey.\u201d\n\u00a0H.R. 3080 will now move to the House floor for consideration.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://payne.house.gov/video/payne-strongly-opposes-40-billion-cuts-snap", "Payne Strongly Opposes $40 Billion in Cuts to SNAP", "2013-09-18", "2013", "2013-09", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Donald Payne", "P000604", "payne.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. said:\n\"I\u2019m not one who likes to go on and on about statistics, but as we debate this Nutrition Bill, there is one that struck a chord with me: \u00a0 One in four...yes, one in four children go to bed hungry every night.\n\"I\u2019m not talking about children in Africa, China or India.\u00a0 I\u2019m talking about 1 in 4 children who live right here in the United States who go to sleep without adequate nutrition.\n\"For me, and the 1 million New Jerseyans on SNAP, this is a complete and total outrage. \u00a0\n\"We live in the greatest country on Earth, yet 17 million children in this country don\u2019t get the nutrition that they need.\n\"Last year alone, SNAP lifted four million people out\u00a0of poverty.\u00a0The bill on the floor this week, which would cut SNAP by nearly 40 billion dollars, will only ensure that these people are pushed right back into poverty.\u00a0\n\"That\u2019s why I strongly oppose this Nutrition Assistance Bill.\u00a0And I urge my colleagues to examine their consciences and remember that when they cast their vote, they are voting for, or against, 1 in 4 children in this country who still go to bed hungry at night.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-announces-contract-awarded-keansburg-beach-replenishment-project", "Pallone Announces Contract Awarded for Keansburg Beach Replenishment Project", "2013-09-17", "2013", "2013-09", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Long Branch, NJ \u2013 Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) announced that the contract has been awarded and work will begin this fall on a $36 million beach replenishment project in Keansburg.\u00a0 This Army Corps of Engineers project, which is funded at full federal expense, will restore beaches in Keansburg to conditions better than prior to Sandy and was made possible by the Sandy aid package passed by Congress. \u00a0The contractor, Great Lakes Dredge Dock, LLC, of Oak Brook, Illinois, will pump 1.1 million cubic yards of new sand and is required to complete the work within 200 days of starting. \u201cMany residents and businesses in Keansburg have been continuously impacted by serious flooding, and during Sandy the community suffered damage unlike it had ever before.\u201d said Pallone.\u00a0 \u201cI\u2019m pleased that the Army Corps is moving forward with this historic investment that will help to protect area homes and businesses from future flooding, as well as repair the destruction caused by Sandy.\u00a0 I have fought for this and other beach replenishment projects for years, because I know how important they are to protect some of our most fragile coastal infrastructure.\u201d The new contract award announced today is part of the larger Keansburg Storm Damage Reduction Project, which includes a previously announced contract to repair Keansburg\u2019s levees, remove debris, and fix a damaged wing wall. \u00a0Work on the levee repair will also begin this fall.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/reps-pallone-and-lobiondo-statement-sports-wagering-ruling", "Reps. Pallone and LoBiondo Statement on Sports Wagering Ruling", "2013-09-17", "2013", "2013-09", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC - Representatives Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) and Frank A. LoBiondo (NJ-02) released the following statement on the Third Circuit\u2019s upholding of a District Court ruling barring New Jersey from allowing sports wagering in the state:\n\u201cThe decision from the Third Circuit is extremely disappointing and one that we do not support.\u00a0 Fortunately, there remain opportunities for appeal, which may still allow New Jersey to move forward with sports wagering.\u00a0 We fully support the State of New Jersey appealing the decision and seeking further review by the Third Circuit or U.S. Supreme Court.\u00a0  \n\t\u00a0  \n\t\u201cFurthermore, the Third Circuit\u2019s decision reinforces our calls for federal legislation to allow the State of New Jersey to implement its sports wagering law and authorize legalized sports wagering.\u00a0 The people of New Jersey clearly support it. It will help to stem the criminal activity associated with sports gambling and will bring in needed revenue by taking sports gambling out of the shadows and regulating it.\u00a0\u00a0 As members of Congress, we are committed to continuing our push to pass legislation that we have proposed and that would bring legal sports wagering to New Jersey.\u201d\nA three judge panel split 2-1 in the decision, and a powerful dissent by Judge Vanaskie argued in favor of the State of New Jersey.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://payne.house.gov/press-release/payne-hosts-health-care-town-hall-jersey-city", "Payne Hosts Health Care Town Hall in Jersey City", "2013-09-17", "2013", "2013-09", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Donald Payne", "P000604", "payne.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Jersey City, N.J. \u2013 Last night, Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. (NJ-10) hosted an Affordable Care Act town hall with representatives from the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services and Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield at the Urban League of Hudson County. Well over fifty people from across the community attended to learn about the new Health Care Marketplaces and how President Obama\u2019s new health care law will affect them and their families.\nThe session provided constituents with critical information about the benefits and obligations under the Affordable Care Act, the coverage options available, and how individuals can enroll in the Affordable Care Act Marketplace. It also provided an opportunity for constituents to get answers to their questions about the new health care law.\nCongressman Payne, Jr. said:\n\u201cGood Evening. I would like to begin by welcoming you to this forum on the Affordable Care Act, more commonly known as Obamacare.\n\u201cTonight, you will be presented with a wealth of information and resources. I urge you to view my office as a constant resource. Do not hesitate to visit or call us for further assistance with responding to the provisions of the Affordable Care Act or any other federal level assistance you may need.\n\u201cThe Affordable Care Act has garnered both praise and confusion. However, many feelings about this new law are driven by a lack of information or misinformation. Regardless of your opinion, I urge you to listen with an open mind to the opportunities and obligations that exist within this law so that you can benefit as much as possible.\n\u201cThe Affordable Care Act is about securing affordable, quality and accessible health care as a right, not a privilege, for every American. It\u2019s about a healthier America. Today\u2019s presentation will provide an in-depth explanation of the new law and its implications for you and your family.\n\u201cThank you for your attendance and your attention.\u201d\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/pallone-hold-us-service-academy-day-naval-weapons-station-earle-0", "Pallone to Hold U.S. Service Academy Day at Naval Weapons Station Earle", "2013-09-16", "2013", "2013-09", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Long Branch, NJ \u2013 Congressman Frank Pallone Jr. (NJ-06) will be hosting a U.S. Service Academy Day on Saturday, September 21, 2013 on Naval Weapons Station Earle, Leonardo Pier Complex.\u00a0 The event will provide a forum for students who are interested in attending one of our nation\u2019s prestigious U.S. Service Academies.\u00a0\nThe event will focus on the admissions process, steps to obtaining a congressional nomination, and lifestyles as Cadets or Midshipmen at the academies.\u00a0 Interested students will have the opportunity to personally meet with representatives from the U.S. Naval Academy, the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, the U.S. Air Force Academy, the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, and the U.S. Coast Guard Academy.\u00a0\n\u201cOur nation\u2019s service academies are some of the highest caliber institutions committed to graduating leaders of character, honor and integrity.\u00a0 Graduates are selflessly prepared to assume some of the highest responsibilities of command, citizenship and government.\u00a0 It is my responsibility to nominate highly qualified and committed candidates to each of the academies.\u00a0 It is my hope that hosting a U.S. Service Academy Day will inspire such young people of the 6th Congressional District to come out and explore the vast opportunities that our academies have to offer,\u201d said Pallone. \u00a0 \u00a0\nDoors will open at 10:00 a.m., and presentations from the Academies will begin promptly at 10:30. Interested students and parents can RSVP to Dawn Rebscher at 732-571-1140.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://payne.house.gov/press-release/payne-speaks-small-business-development-conference", "Payne Speaks at Small Business Development Conference", "2013-09-16", "2013", "2013-09", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Donald Payne", "P000604", "payne.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Montclair, N.J. \u2013 Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. (NJ-10), a member of the House Committee on Small Business, spoke at the Small Business Development Conference, Reviving the Entrepreneurial Spirit: Creating Wealth and Opportunity in the 21st Century, this Saturday. \u00a0The conference was the third in the Positive Community Newark Leadership Roundtable Series co-hosted by Montclair State University School of Business and The Positive Community, with lead sponsor Wells Fargo Bank.\n\tThe conference featured panelists from across the region to speak about the importance of small businesses in this economy and creating jobs in the 21st Century. The conference also offered workshops designed to help businesses grow and succeed, including topics ranging from tax and access to capital, to financing and marketing.\n\t----\n\tCongressman Payne, Jr. opened the well-attended conference.\u00a0 Please find below remarks prepared for delivery:\n\t\u201cGood Morning!\n\t\u201cIt is an honor to join you today to discuss the important role of small businesses, particularly in this 21st century, post recession economy.\n\t\u201cLet me begin by thanking Dr. E. LaBrent Chrite for the introduction and directing Montclair State University\u2019s School of Business\u2019s role in hosting today\u2019s event. I would also like to thank Adrian Council and Jean Nash Wells of the Positive Community for organizing such a timely discussion.\n\t\u201cLast year, small businesses created nearly 700,000 jobs, accounting for 40 percent of employment gains across companies of all sizes, nationwide. So it is fair to say that small businesses are truly the backbone of our economy, and entrepreneurship is still a primary pathway to realizing the American Dream.\n\t\u201cAs a member of the House Committee on Small Business, I have continuously worked to increase the support and capital our entrepreneurs and small businesses owners need to get off the ground and grow.\n\t\u201cAfter Hurricane Sandy, so many of our small businesses were either damaged or destroyed, causing them to close their doors. I am proud to say that I fought for Sandy Relief on the House Floor and will continue to ensure that we rebuild our small businesses, put people back to work, and are stronger than we were before.\n\t\u201cI have been a staunch advocate of expanding access to capital \u2013 especially to minority and women-owned businesses - and strengthening the SBA\u2019s lending programs.\n\t\u201cI am also working to reduce overly burdensome regulations so that small business owners can spend more time doing what they love \u2013 running their businesses. I recognize that strengthening small businesses strengthens our entire country because small business owners are the job creators. They are the innovators. And our small businesses ensure that we remain competitive in a 21st Century, global economy.\u00a0\n\t\u201cA key player in our 21st Century competitiveness is the green job sector. Recognizing the nation\u2019s energy boom and green energy potential, I introduced the Green Jobs Act to ensure that green small businesses have the resources to grow their business, hire more workers, and strengthen our nation\u2019s competitiveness.\n\t\u201cBecause to remain competitive in this world, we have to out-innovate the rest of the world. And my focus has been working to give you the tools you need to make it easier to open your business, grow, and succeed in this competitive, global economy.\n\t\u201cAnother concern I know that is affecting small business owners are the changes in President Obama\u2019s new health care law.\u00a0 With change, there is always some apprehension. But there are many opportunities under this law. I believe that the law will level the playing field for small businesses who will now be able to offer competitive benefits to their employees.\n\t\u201cFor years, small businesses have been vulnerable to steep premium hikes. But because of the Affordable Care Act, small businesses will soon be able to shop in the Health Insurance Marketplace and access better options and lower prices.\n\t\u201cThis helps employees and it helps businesses. Because it is proven, providing health care to your workers keeps workers healthier and happier.\u00a0 And when workers are healthier and happier, they are more productive.\u00a0 This is good for owners, it\u2019s good for business, and it\u2019s good for our economy.\u00a0 So it really is a win-win, and I hope everyone will learn more about it by going to healthcare.gov.\n\t\u201cIn closing I want to commend all of you for coming today and congratulate all those who put this important conference together. This conference offers the opportunity to connect and access a wealth of information to plan, develop, and grow small businesses. I encourage each of you to listen, ask questions, and learn. Your current or future business is a vital part of our nation\u2019s fabric and your success strengthens our community, our state, and our nation.\n\t\u201cThank you.\u201d\n\t###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://payne.house.gov/press-release/payne-statement-washington-navy-yard-shooting", "Payne Statement on Washington Navy Yard Shooting", "2013-09-16", "2013", "2013-09", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Donald Payne", "P000604", "payne.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Newark, N.J. \u2013 Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. released the following statement today on the shooting at the Navy Yard in Washington, D.C., which has left at least 12 dead:\n\u201cMy thoughts are with the victims and all those affected by the Washington Navy Yard shootings today.\u00a0 It is tragic that the men and women of our Armed Forces fight in battle overseas and then face unthinkable, deadly violence here at home.\u00a0 We continue to pray on behalf of those injured during this horrific event, and my special condolences are extended to those who were killed and the families mourning the death of their loved ones.\u201d\n# # #", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://sires.house.gov/washington-review-september-13-2013", "Washington Review, September 13, 2013", "2013-09-13", "2013", "2013-09", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Albio Sires", "S001165", "sires.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Congress has faced critical policy dilemmas all year long including rising student loan interest rates, budget battles, and immigration reform, among other issues. Most recently, Congress has been charged with the difficult task of responding to the President\u2019s proposal for military action in Syria. As Congress continues to examine and debate the next step for the United States, it is important not to lose focus on the issues at home.\u00a0\u00a0\nLast week, as a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, I attended a hearing where Secretary of State John Kerry, Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel, and Joint Chiefs of Staff General Martin Dempsey, testified on the Administration\u2019s proposed response to the alleged chemical weapons attack by the Syrian military. Since the atrocities of World War II, deterring the use of these unforgiving and horrific weapons has been a key goal of both the United States and the international community. The world benefits from the removal of chemical weapons from such a volatile region.\u00a0 Removing such weapons from the hands of a tyrant will allow the focus on Syria to shift to the growing and increasingly destabilizing humanitarian crisis in the country.\u00a0 As information continues to come before Congress on the issue of Syria, I will continue to listen to my constituents and experts on the crisis, to determine the best path forward for our nation and the international community.\nWhile much of the public attention has focused on foreign affairs this week, I was also working on pressing issues here at home, including transportation safety and immigration reform.\u00a0 This week, I met with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Administrator Anne S. Ferro, and discussed the recent bus crash in West New York which resulted in the tragic death of Angelie Paredes, an 8-month-old girl.\u00a0 The FMCSA is the federal agency tasked with regulating commercial motor vehicles, including commuter buses.\nThis meeting was held in response to an August 7th press conference with State Senator Nicholas Sacco (D-32), and several State legislators in West New York, New Jersey, in which I vowed to call for stricter regulations for drivers and bus companies.\u00a0 I will continue to work with FMCSA officials to identify legislative solutions that ensure greater safety of our commuters and pedestrians.\u00a0\nAlso this week, as a member of the Congressional Hispanic Leadership Institute (CHLI), I joined CHLI and my fellow members at a press conference about the urgency to pass comprehensive immigration reform. It is imperative that, in the midst of a fiscal and an international crisis, Congress does not allow immigration reform to fall by the wayside. Reforming the system is not only important to the 11 million people living in the shadows, but also for our economy and our relationship with the global community.\nOnce again, thank you for reading my Washington Review. I appreciate the calls and emails my office has received on foreign affairs, immigration reform, and the tragic bus accident in West New York.\u00a0 As your representative, it is important I receive comments on issues that matter to you.\u00a0 I invite you to contact me through my website or you may leave a comment on Facebook or Twitter with your ideas, concerns and recommendations.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://sires.house.gov/press-release/sires-meets-federal-officials-discuss-stricter-commuter-bus-regulations", "Sires Meets with Federal Officials to Discuss Stricter Commuter Bus Regulations", "2013-09-12", "2013", "2013-09", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Albio Sires", "S001165", "sires.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "For Immediate Release\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Contact: Erica Daughtrey\nSeptember 12, 2013\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 201-309-0301\n\u00a0\nSires Meets with Federal Officials to Discuss Stricter Commuter Bus Regulations\n(Washington, D.C.)\u00a0\u2013Congressman Albio Sires met with Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) Administrator Anne S. Ferro to discuss issues related to a recent bus crash in West New York, which resulted in the death of an 8-month-old girl.\u00a0 The FMCSA is the federal agency tasked with regulating commercial motor vehicles, including commuter busses.\nIn the meeting, Congressman Sires expressed his concerns about ongoing safety violations by drivers of jitney busses throughout his district.\u00a0\n\u201cThe accident that took the life of a baby girl in West New York this summer is clear evidence that gaps exist in our nation\u2019s commuter bus safety policies.\u00a0 It is critical that we review the current business model, which requires busses to compete on the road for passengers, and we must supply law enforcement with the tools they need to ensure the rules of the road are being obeyed,\u201d said Congressman Sires. \u201cI am pleased to have begun a dialogue with regulators at the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, and look forward to continuing our efforts to identify legislative solutions to improve safety for all of our nation\u2019s commuters and pedestrians.\u201d\nThis meeting was held in response to an August 7th press conference with State Senator Nicholas Sacco (D-32), and several State legislators in West New York, New Jersey, in which Congressman Sires vowed to call for stricter regulations for drivers and bus companies.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://web.archive.org/web/20131028210714/http://www.house.gov/apps/list/press/nj09_pascrell/pr9132013.shtml", "Pascrell Introduces Legislation to Promote American Manufacturing", "2013-09-12", "2013", "2013-09", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Bill Pascrell", "P000096", "web.archive.org", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC \u2013 In his continued effort to promote American manufacturing, U.S. Rep. Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-NJ) today introduced the Qualifying Renewable Chemical Production Tax Credit Act of 2013, H.R. 3084, bipartisan legislation which provides renewable chemical producers access to a production tax credit when they create American jobs and reduce our dependence on foreign oil. The legislation, co-sponsored by Rep. Steve Stockman (R-TX), will provide a targeted tax credit for U.S. producers of qualifying renewable chemicals, helping them to commercialize homegrown technology and build new biorefineries in the United States. \"By leveling the playing field for the biochemical sector, we are strengthening America's role as the leader in developing this groundbreaking industry,\" said Rep. Pascrell.\u00a0 \"Creating good jobs right here in America is the best way to bolster our economy, and this legislation does just that while reducing our reliance on foreign oil and ensuring a more sustainable future.\" Renewable chemical companies are a part of a new and growing industry that uses renewable 'feedstocks' to replace oil when making various chemicals. The chemicals that they produce are used in many everyday products, including car parts, stain resistant rugs and computer screens.  Given that this technology is new, the cost of their product is higher than those manufactured using traditional, petroleum based inputs.\u00a0 Due to the lack of U.S. federal support, many companies are being bought by foreign entities, who then export the jobs producing these chemicals. The Qualifying Renewable Chemical Production Tax Credit Act of 2013 creates a targeted, short term tax credit for production of eligible renewable chemicals, with priority given to companies that create jobs in the United States. This legislation would also have a significant impact in reducing America's dependence on foreign oil.\u00a0 Currently, 10% of each barrel of imported petroleum goes to making chemicals and products, rather than transportation fuels. Substitution of renewable feedstock for petroleum is not only more environmentally sustainable, but would increase the petroleum supply available for fuel products and help lower gas prices. In the 112th Congress, Rep. Pascrell introduced a bipartisan bill, H.R. 4953, with Reps. Brian Bilbray and Richard Neal that proposed a production tax credit to accelerate commercialization of the renewable chemicals and biobased products industry. A companion bill, S. 1267, was introduced in the Senate by Sen. Debbie Stabenow (D-MI). Original co-sponsors of the Qualifying Renewable Chemical Production Tax Credit Act of 2013 include Reps. Allyson Schwartz (D-PA), Linda Sanchez (D-CA) and Richard Neal (D-MA). ***  A summary of the legislation follows.\n                                  Qualifying Renewable Chemical Production Tax Credit Act of 2013\n                                  1.\u00a0 Job creation / revitalization of U.S. manufacturing regions   o\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Building the biobased economy will generate additional jobs in manufacturing, agricultural production and forestry, transportation and distribution, and construction.  o\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Today, nearly 2,000 companies in the United States either manufacture or distribute\u00a0 nearly 20,000 biobased products.  o\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0The bio-based products industry creates a minimum of 100,000 jobs annually, according to an Iowa State CIRAS voluntary survey.  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0This represents tremendous growth since a 2007 U.S. International Trade Commission study counted 5,700 U.S. workers at 159 facilities.  \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0A 2010 report from BIO projected that the renewable chemical industry has created or saved 40,000 jobs.  o\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Biorefineries that process sustainable biomass can produce 700,000 jobs and $88.5 billion in economic activity, primarily in rural areas where economic development is greatly needed, according to USDA projections.\n                                  2.\u00a0 Oil displacement / energy independence  o\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Because biotechnology enables solutions to a broader range of energy challenges, building the biobased economy is the key to reducing reliance on foreign oil.  o\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0While less than 20 percent of the volume of each barrel of oil, the chemicals and other products represent about half the value.  o\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Renewable chemicals and biobased products can already compete on cost with fossil fuels.\n                                  3.\u00a0 Balance of trade  o\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0The biobased economy has the potential to generate upwards of $230 billion to the global economy by 2020, according to the World Economic Forum. The U.S. can capture its share of that value by leveraging its biotechnology innovation.  o\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0The biobased economy includes a projected $89 billion for biomass production and $30 billion for biomass trading.  o\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Before 2003, the traditional U.S. chemicals and plastics industry was a driver of export earnings for the United States; today, the United States carries an overall deficit.   o\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0The global sustainable chemical industry will grow to $1 trillion dollars by 2020, according to the OECD; this creates a significant opportunity for job growth and export growth   \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0The current global sustainable chemical industry is only about 7% of its projected future size.   \u2022\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0If U.S. companies can capture 19% of this new $1 trillion market, the U.S. will create about 237,000 direct U.S. jobs in the sustainable chemicals sector, while shifting the balance of trade in the chemical sector to a trade surplus.\n                                  4.\u00a0 Ensuring U.S. innovation is deployed at home  o\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0The United States can use its leadership in biotechnology, agricultural productivity and manufacturing innovation to build a biobased economy.  o\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0The emergence of renewable chemicals and biobased products represents a historic opportunity to reverse job losses in the U.S. chemicals and plastics sectors while simultaneously improving energy security and the environment. \u00a0  o\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0The U.S. faces the challenge of reducing its costly dependence on foreign oil and competing in a $2.4 trillion worldwide clean energy market and a $3.5 trillion global chemicals market. \u00a0  o\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0Production tax credits are currently offered to incumbent fossil energy industries.\u00a0 As such, the renewable chemicals and biobased allowance are critical to attract capital. \u00a0  o\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0It will be much more difficult for U.S. companies and home grown technologies to develop projects in the United States if other nations offer attractive investment incentives.  o\u00a0\u00a0 \u00a0A 2007 US International Trade Commission study found that the EU, Canada, Brazil, China and Japan had competitive tax incentives for biobased products, while U.S. incentives for biofuels did not extend to renewable chemicals.  ###  \n                                ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://pallone.house.gov/press-release/new-report-supports-pallone-position-flexibility-fisheries-management", "New Report Supports Pallone Position on Flexibility in Fisheries Management", "2013-09-11", "2013", "2013-09", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, DC \u2013 A House Natural Resources Committee hearing today on the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act brought to light findings of a new study from the National Research Council (NRC) of the National Academies, which indicates a need for flexibility in fisheries stock rebuilding plans. \u00a0\nCongressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) has long advocated for additional flexibility to be incorporated into the Magnuson Stevens Act. Pallone has fought to change the law governing fisheries management and proposed changes to the Act\u2019s required ten year fish stock rebuilding timeframe which he has called too rigid and arbitrary.\u00a0\nAt today\u2019s hearing, Pallone questioned witnesses Dr. Patrick Sullivan, an author of the NRC report titled Evaluating the Effectiveness of Fish Stock Rebuilding Plans in the United States and Mr. Richard Robins, Chairman of the Mid-Atlantic Fishery Management Council about the ten-year timeframe and whether it is even biologically possible to rebuild within 10 years in some cases and if social and economic factors should be taken into greater account. Both witnesses agreed that additional flexibility in fisheries management is needed to account for more of these factors. \u00a0Chairman Robins added that flexibility in the 10 year timeframe could better equip fisheries managers to protect fishing communities.\u00a0\nPallone also questioned witnesses on a second panel including Jeff Deem of the Recreational Fishing Alliance about findings in the report that indicate that a lack of scientific certainty may require alternative fisheries management paradigms. Deem answered that\u00a0field data from fishermen should be taken into consideration and that managers should consider that the science is not always precise and therefore balance the lack of data with other priorities.\u00a0\nToday\u2019s hearing supported Pallone\u2019s long-time call for revisions to the Magnuson Stevens Act that will take into account more socioeconomic concerns to ensure that the livelihood of fishermen and fishing communities are not unnecessarily hurt because of arbitrary guidelines.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://payne.house.gov/press-release/payne-statement-response-president-obama%E2%80%99s-address-nation-syria", "Payne Statement in Response to President Obama\u2019s Address to the Nation on Syria", "2013-09-11", "2013", "2013-09", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Donald Payne", "P000604", "payne.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C.\u00a0 \u2013 Congressman Donald M. Payne, Jr. (NJ-10) released the following statement following President Obama\u2019s address to the nation regarding Syria:\n\u201cI commend President Obama for having a public discussion and including the American people in this incredibly important debate. \u00a0I am listening to the concerns of my constituents as there have been many tough questions about action in Syria that must be answered. I am pleased that the United States is working with the international community to reach a diplomatic option that secures and removes Syria\u2019s chemical weapons, preventing Assad, al Qaeda, or other terrorist groups\u00a0from using these heinous weapons against innocent men, women, and children ever again. This is a very serious and complex situation that is constantly developing, and I continue to remain cautiously optimistic that the United States can reach a resolution diplomatically and peacefully with the cooperation of our international partners.\u201d\n\u00a0###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://payne.house.gov/video/importance-unions-our-economy", "The Importance of Unions in our Economy", "2013-09-10", "2013", "2013-09", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Donald Payne", "P000604", "payne.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Newark Office   \n      60 Nelson Place, 14th Floor (LeRoy F. 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