{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where party = \"Democrat\", state = \"NJ\" and year = 2022 sorted by date descending", "rows": [["https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-secures-more-128-million-constituents-2022", "Pallone Secures More than $12.8 Million for Constituents in 2022", "2022-12-30", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone, Jr.", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", "pallone", "https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Long Branch, NJ \u2013 Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) today announced that his office helped secure $12,888,902 for constituents who sought assistance from his offices in New Jersey in 2022. The money returned to constituents includes Veterans Affairs (VA) claims, tax returns with the Internal Revenue Service, FEMA grants and claims related to Superstorm Sandy, Small Business Administration loans, and Social Security payments. In 2022, Pallone's office successfully closed 2,255 constituent cases.\n\n\"I'm very proud we were able to help so many constituents receive the money that was owed to them. I want everyone to know that we're here to assist them,\" said Pallone. \"My offices are available to support constituents who need assistance navigating issues related to federal agencies. As we enter 2023, I hope New Jerseyans in the Sixth Congressional District continue to use my office as a resource.\"\n\nCongressman Pallone's office can assist constituents who have questions about a federal agency or need help with Social Security benefits, federal pensions, Medicare eligibility, and passport and immigration issues. Veterans can also receive help with a range of programs and benefits, including military records and awards, GI Bill benefits, and VA disability claims. Staff may be able to locate low-income housing options and provide guidance on utility payment assistance for eligible families.\n\nConstituents should not hesitate to contact Congressman Pallone's district offices if they have questions:\n\nNew Brunswick Office - 67/69 Church Street, New Brunswick, NJ 08901, Phone: (732) 249-8892", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-s-bill-help-homeless-veterans-credit-and-financial-counseling-0", "Pallone\u2019s Bill to Help Homeless Veterans with Credit and Financial Counseling Services Signed into Law", "2022-12-29", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone, Jr.", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", "pallone", "https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2013 Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr.'s (NJ-06) Homeless Veterans Credit Repair, Enhancement, and Debt Improvement for Tomorrow (CREDIT) Act was signed into law today. The bill was included in the Omnibus Spending Bill for Fiscal Year 2023 and will help end veteran homelessness and housing instability by providing credit and financial counseling - a top ten unmet need for homeless veterans. In May, Pallone held a roundtable with veterans in New Jersey to discuss the bill.\n\nThe bill directs the Secretary of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to conduct a study of the effectiveness of credit and financial counseling services offered to homeless veterans and veterans facing housing instability. The study will explore these services and the barriers to them, including the COVID-19 pandemic and other health challenges. The study would provide recommendations for improvements to credit counseling services. The bill will also require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to provide an interim and final report to Congress on the findings of the study.\n\n\"Today, we are one step closer to alleviating veteran homelessness. The Homeless Veterans CREDIT Act will help address veteran homelessness by improving credit and financial counseling services offered to veterans. During this time of economic uncertainty, we must look out for our most vulnerable communities, including homeless veterans and those at risk of becoming homeless. My bill will give us a better understanding of how to improve the services offered to our nation's heroes,\" said Congressman Pallone. \"We have a responsibility to help those who served in uniform and stood ready to make the ultimate sacrifice for our country.\"\n\nThe Homeless Veterans CREDIT Act received the endorsement of the Wounded Warrior Project, the Institute for Veterans and Military Families at Syracuse University, and the Department of New Jersey Veterans of Foreign Wars.\n\n\"Our research and experience tell us that financial stability and literacy are cornerstones of overall well-being for veterans and their families. Thanks to Congressman Pallone's leadership on this issue, the Homeless Veterans CREDIT Act will commission much needed research on how financial counseling programs can positively impact some of the most vulnerable members of the veteran population,\" said Dr. Michael Haynie, Executive Director of the Institute for Veterans and Military Families and Vice Chancellor of Syracuse University. \"In doing so, this bill will empower our veterans, contributing to a healthier, safer and more equitable society for generations to come.\"\n\n\"Wounded Warrior Project is proud to support the Homeless Veterans CREDIT Act, and we believe it is critically important to fully understand the barriers homeless veterans face in accessing financial and credit counseling services. We applaud its inclusion in the Fiscal Year 2023 Omnibus Appropriations bill and thank Congressman Pallone for his continued commitment to veterans and their families,\" said Jose Ramos, Wounded Warrior Project Vice President for Government and Community Relations.\n\n\"The New Jersey Veterans of Foreign Wars is proud of Congressman Pallone's legislation on behalf of homeless veterans. We thank Congressman Pallone for letting our organization share in his efforts to bring meaningful change to the lives of these men and women,\" said Bill Thomson, Legislative Director for the Department of New Jersey Veterans of Foreign Wars.\n\nPallone spoke in favor of the bill on the House floor in 2021. Video of the speech is available here.\n\nBill text is available here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-watson-coleman-announces-15-million-for-community-projects-in-new-jerseys-12th-district", "Rep. Watson Coleman Announces $15 Million for Community Projects in New Jersey\u2019s 12th District", "2022-12-27", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Bonnie Watson Coleman", "W000822", "watsoncoleman.house.gov", "watsoncoleman", "https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman announced more than $15 million in federal community project funding for 15 organizations in New Jersey\u2019s 12th Congressional District. This funding comes as part of the omnibus government funding legislation that Congress passed on December 23.\n\nThe projects receiving funding include public facility restorations, flood mitigation initiatives, youth programs, and more.\n\n\u201cAs New Jersey\u2019s sole congressional appropriator, I take great pride in making sure my constituents\u2019 federal tax dollars come right back to their communities,\u201d said Congresswoman Watson Coleman. \u201cThis year, I\u2019m proud to announce that I secured funding for 15 community projects across the 12th District. From mental health services to infrastructure improvements, these investments will make Central Jersey a better place to live, work, and raise a family.\u201d\n\nSpecifically, the omnibus funding bill provides funding for the following community projects in New Jersey\u2019s 12th District:\n\n\u25cf $2,000,000 for the Assunpink Greenway Active Recreation Corridor\n\n\u25cf $1,000,000 for the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Essex, Hudson Union Counties, Newark, NJ for mentoring and student support\n\n\u25cf $750,000 for the Coalport Neighborhood Revitalization Planning\n\n\u25cf $750,000 for the East Brunswick Public Library Building Infrastructure\n\n\u25cf $813,600 for the Henry J. Austin Health Center, Trenton, NJ for a mobile health unit and staffing\n\n\u25cf $350,000 for the Manville Veterans Freedom Plaza Creation\n\n\u25cf $715,000 for the River Basin Commissions (Mid-Atlantic River Basin Commissions: Delaware River Basin Commission)\n\n\u25cf $2,600,000 for the South Brunswick Signalized Intersection Improvements\n\n\u25cf $1,112,175 for the Southern Middlesex County Flood Mitigation and Resilience Project\n\n\u25cf $500,000 for The Center for Great Expectations, Somerset, NJ for mental health services and treatment\n\n\u25cf $631,500 for The Children's Home Society of New Jersey, Trenton, NJ for employment training and related expenses for low income women to improve health and economic outcomes\n\n\u25cf $100,000 for the United Way of Greater Union County, Elizabeth, NJ for addressing food insecurity, access to transportation and healthcare, and financial stability\n\n\u25cf $2,443,000 for the Van Veghten House Restoration\n\n\u25cf $750,000 for the Trenton Wireworks\n\n\u25cf $750,000 for the Witherspoon Street Improvements", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-watson-coleman-statement-on-supreme-courts-title-42-order", "Rep. Watson Coleman Statement on Supreme Court's Title 42 Order", "2022-12-27", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Bonnie Watson Coleman", "W000822", "watsoncoleman.house.gov", "watsoncoleman", "https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) released a statement following today\u2019s unsigned Supreme Court order temporarily extending Title 42, a destructive and flawed Trump-era measure that was set to expire this month.\n\n\u201cThe Supreme Court\u2019s order today is a destructive one based purely on politics. As Trump-appointed Supreme Court Justice Neil Gorsuch wrote in his dissent, this order was made, \u2018because policymakers have failed to agree on adequate measures to address [increased border crossings]... We are a court of law, not policymakers of last resort.\u2019 At a time when the American peoples\u2019 faith in the Supreme Court\u2019s impartiality is at an all-time low this decision further erodes the Court\u2019s credibility.\n\n\u201cThe order endangers the lives of people fleeing violence in their homelands; those seeking freedom, safety, and opportunity in the United States. Title 42 was put in place as a measure to protect public health during the height of the spread of COVID-19. It is not a substitute for comprehensive immigration reform.\n\n\u201cInstead, Republican Governors have prioritized political stunts including sending desperate asylum seekers to northern cities that are experiencing severe weather.\n\n\u201cRepublican politicians have been quick to eliminate or circumvent nearly all COVID protocols meant to protect Americans. Their sudden interest in supporting covid measures at this point is based entirely on an effort to exclude legal asylum seekers. They have cynically found this one issue, the issue of Title 42, to cling to not because they seek to protect public health, but because their own caucus is incapable of coming to the table with Democrats on comprehensive immigration reform.\n\n\u201cI only hope they see the light between now and the time of the Court\u2019s final ruling on this case. Bipartisan immigration reform is possible but only if Congressional Republicans can put aside their partisanship and work with Democrats on finding a solution that prioritizes fairness and security.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=EBBFC966-62B2-4CA2-BDC4-AEF3D71E4F5C", "Rep. Norcross Touts Historic Investments in Government Funding Bill, Local Community Projects", "2022-12-23", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Donald Norcross", "N000188", "norcross.house.gov", "norcross", "https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases", "page_html", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 Today, Congressman Donald Norcross (D-NJ-01) released the following statement upon passing the FY23 omnibus bill, a bipartisan funding package of 12 appropriations bills, supplemental funding, and other key policies that includes funding for 15 community projects in New Jersey\u2019s 1st Congressional District.\n\n\u201cThis end-of-year package is about our values as a nation and our commitment to working families,\u201d said Congressman Norcross. \u201cThe funding we secured this year will have a direct impact on the quality of life for hardworking South Jerseyans, providing good-paying jobs, better access to affordable education, and lower health care costs. The bill also includes critical investments in retirement savings, worker protections, job creation and support for our veterans, which I have championed throughout the year. I\u2019m also proud to see us take critical steps to secure our democracy at home and provide robust support for the Ukrainian people in their fight against Russian aggression. At the end of the day, the funding we secure has to show hardworking Americans that we are looking out for them. This bill does that, and I want to thank House and Senate appropriators for keeping our promise and moving our country forward.\u201d\n\nCongressman Norcross added, \u201cI\u2019m proud to have secured critical funding for fifteen local projects that are going to empower South Jersey families. From fighting hunger to improving our local ports and recreation, these resources are going to directly support the families that call this community home. That\u2019s a big deal, and it\u2019s an honor to help make this impact.\u201d\n\nCongressman Norcross\u2019s Key Priorities in the FY23 Omnibus\n\nJob Training and Education: $18.4 billion for Title I schools, an increase of $850 million from the previous year. The bill also provides $10.5 billion for the Employment and Training Administration and $285 million for Registered Apprenticeships nationwide, which allow apprentices to \u201cearn while they learn\u201d a skilled trade and provide an opportunity to begin a good-paying career without a traditional four-year college background.\n\nHealth Care Access: $47 billion for the National Institute of Health (NIH). The bill also provides critical funding to improve health outcomes for young families who live in underserved communities. Ensuring permanent, mandatory and continuous coverage for the 40 million children enrolled in Medicaid and CHIP.\n\nChild Care: $8.02 billion for the Child Care and Development Block Grant program, which represents a 30 percent boost. The bill also creates a nationwide permanent Summer EBT Program for millions of children to get healthy, nutritious meals in the summer.\n\nMental and Behavioral Health: $7.5 billion for the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), an increase of $970 million in funding from FY22 levels. Additionally, key provisions of Rep. Norcross\u2019s Opioid Treatment Access Act were included in the FY23 omnibus, which will cut red tape for mobile clinics offering methadone treatment for opioid use disorder.\n\nNational Security: $797.7 billion to support our men and women in uniform, including an increase of $109.05 million for safety upgrades for military vehicles to keep servicemembers safe while operating them. This bill also includes $45 billion to continue supporting the Ukrainian people against Putin\u2019s war.\n\nCleaner Energy and Independence: A $1.2 billion increase in investments towards research, development and deployment of clean energy made in America.\n\nFederal Student Aid Programs: Increased the maximum allowable Pell Grant by $500 to $7,395 \u2013 a substantial increase in the maximum award that will help working families pursue higher educational opportunities.\n\nWorker Protection Agencies: $1.9 billion, an increase of $52 million above fiscal year 2021, which will collectively look after workers interests and ensure they are receiving the wages and benefits they earned fair and square.\n\nWorkers\u2019 Rights: $299 million for the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB), a $25 million increase in funding from FY22. Though not nearly enough to keep up with increased numbers of union petitions, this is the first time the NLRB has received an increase in funding since FY2010 and ensures the agency will be able to avoid steep staffing cuts.\n\nRetirement Savings: Key provisions in FY23 omnibus bill will allow individuals with low and moderate incomes to receive a 50% government matching contribution (up to $2,000) that will be deposited into their 401(k) or IRA.\n\nCommunity Projects for South Jersey: 15 community funding projects were secured as part of the guidelines issued by the House Appropriations Committee.\n\nBackground\n\nThe text of the FY23 omnibus is here. A full summary of the 12 regular appropriations bills is here. Explanatory statements are available here. A summary of the Ukraine supplemental is here. FY23 Appropriations Requests are here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-03-30T11:08:25Z"], ["https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-applauds-passage-omnibus-package", "Pallone Applauds Passage of Omnibus Package", "2022-12-23", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone, Jr.", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", "pallone", "https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ) released the following statement today after the House passed H.R. 2617, Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023:\n\n\"Today, the Democratic House majority passed a comprehensive government funding package that invests in the American people.\n\n\"As Chairman of the Energy and Commerce Committee, I'm proud to have secured provisions in the bill that will increase access to health care and establish critically important consumer protections.\n\n\"The government funding agreement guarantees 12 months of continuous Medicaid coverage for 40 million of our nation's children, provides two years of additional CHIP funding, and permanently extends the option for states to offer 12 months of Medicaid coverage to new moms. In addition, it provides resources and support to address our nation's mental health and substance use disorder crises, which we know are especially acute among young people.\n\n\"I'm also pleased the omnibus ensures Puerto Rico and the U.S. Territories have the Medicaid funding they need to care for their residents.\n\n\"The bill equips FDA and CDC with important new tools and resources to fulfill their missions protecting the health and safety of Americans. After more than 80 years since our cosmetic safety laws were last updated, Congress is passing legislation I've long championed to empower FDA with the tools and resources it needs to oversee the cosmetics industry. It's a huge win for consumers and I'm thrilled it's going to be signed into law.\n\n\"Finally, the omnibus will guard consumers against counterfeit and dangerous products, bolster U.S. manufacturing, and continue to promote our economic competitiveness on the world stage.\n\n\"I'm proud Democrats were able to secure so many important health care and consumer protection provisions in this bill and I look forward to President Biden signing it into law soon.\"\n\nHealth Care Provisions in the Fiscal Year 2023 Omnibus:\n\nMedicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP):\n\nThe omnibus extends funding for CHIP for two years through fiscal year 2029, requires children to be provided with 12 months of continuous coverage in Medicaid and CHIP effective January 1, 2024, and makes permanent a state option to allow states to continue to provide 12 months of continuous coverage during the postpartum period in Medicaid or CHIP.\n\nMedicaid Funding for the U.S. Territories:\n\nThe omnibus extends Puerto Rico's higher federal Medicaid match of 76 percent through fiscal year 2027 and permanently extends a higher federal Medicaid match of 83 percent for American Samoa, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Guam, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.\n\nMental Health Care:\n\nThe omnibus includes a number of provisions to address the nation's mental health crisis by strengthening, expanding, and establishing more than 30 critical programs that collectively support mental health care and substance use disorder prevention, care, treatment, peer support, and recovery support services. It reauthorizes the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline Program, the Community Mental Health Service Block Grants, and the renamed Substance Use and Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery Block Grants. The bill also includes grant funding to support the maternal mental programs, establishes a maternal mental health hotline and a related task force. It extends mental health parity to state and local government workers and bolsters the mental health and substance use disorder workforce through increased capacity and training. It also provides Medicare Part B coverage of mental health counselor and therapist services.\n\nMedication Assisted Treatment (MAT) & Medication Access and Training Expansion (MATE):\n\nThe omnibus expands patient access to opioid addiction treatment by making it easier for health care providers to dispense buprenorphine for opioid use disorder maintenance or detoxification treatment. The bill also requires health care providers to complete a training requirement on identifying and treating patients with substance use disorders.\n\nAccelerated Approval:\n\nThe omnibus modernizes and strengthens FDA's ability to oversee drugs that are approved through the accelerated approval pathway. The bill requires FDA to specify conditions for required postapproval studies and authorizes the agency to require postapproval studies to be underway at the time of approval or within a specified time period following approval. The omnibus also clarifies and streamlines the existing authority to withdraw approvals where sponsors fail to conduct studies with due diligence.\n\nClinical Trial Diversity:\n\nThe omnibus requires FDA to take a series of actions intended to modernize and improve clinical trials including increasing the diversity and engagement of trial participants.\n\nCosmetics Reform:\n\nThe omnibus strengthens FDA's ability to regulate the safety of cosmetics and personal care products. The bill empowers FDA to establish good manufacturing practices, requires manufacturers to report adverse events, requires manufacturing facilities to be registered, requires cosmetic product labels to list fragrance allergens and contact information to report adverse event reports, and provides FDA with mandatory recall authority. Pallone has long been a champion of cosmetics reform.\n\nARPA-H:\n\nThe omnibus establishes the Advanced Research Projects Agency \u2013 Health (ARPA-H), an advance research entity that will accelerate innovation in health and medicine by investing in novel, broadly applicable, high-risk, high-reward research projects.\n\nLymphedema Compression Treatment:\n\nThe omnibus provides Medicare Part B coverage of compression garments for the treatment of lymphedema.\n\nPandemic Preparedness:\n\nThe omnibus provides important new authorities for improving the Strategic National Stockpile to ensure critical pandemic supplies are operational, resilient, and ready to deploy in times of need. The bill also provides critical support to the public health workforce by encouraging investments in the next generation of health care workers through grants and public health loan forgiveness.\n\nTelehealth:\n\nThe omnibus continues Medicare's expanded access to telehealth by extending COVID-19 telehealth flexibilities for an additional two years, through December 31, 2024.\n\nConsumer Protection & Commerce Provisions in the Fiscal Year 2023 Omnibus:\n\nOnline Marketplaces:\n\nThe omnibus establishes a national standard, enforced by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and State Attorneys General, that require online platforms that allow third party sellers of consumer products to verify the identity of high-volume third-party sellers, enabling consumers to obtain basic identification and contact information for certain sellers.\n\nProduct Safety:\n\nThe bill directs the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) to promulgate a consumer product safety standard for free standing clothing storage units to protect children up to 72 months of age from tip-over related death or injury.\n\nManufacturing.gov:\n\nThe omnibus requires the Department of Commerce to establish a section of the manufacturing.gov website to serve as the primary hub for information relating to federal manufacturing programs.\n\nTravel and Tourism:\n\nThe bill establishes the position of Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Travel and Tourism to be appointed by the President, tasked with developing a 10-year strategy with annual goals to boost the industry and aggregating data on domestic travel and tourism trends.\n\nCybersecurity:\n\nThe omnibus requires the FTC to report on cross-border complaints received that involve ransomware or other cyber-related attacks committed by certain foreign individuals, companies, and governments. The report must focus specifically on attacks committed by Russia, China, North Korea, or Iran or individuals or companies that are located in or have ties to those countries. This provision was authored by Schakowsky and Bilirakis.\n\nPublic Safety:\n\nThe bill authorizes $2.5 million for the CPSC to carry out an education and awareness campaign to inform the public of methods to prevent drowning and entrapment in swimming pools.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-secures-513-million-federal-funding-15-projects-middlesex-and-monmouth", "Pallone Secures $51.3 Million in Federal Funding for 15 Projects in Middlesex and Monmouth Counties", "2022-12-23", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone, Jr.", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", "pallone", "https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "December 23, 2022\n\nWashington, DC \u2013 Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) secured $51,373,858 for 15 projects in Middlesex and Monmouth Counties in a federal spending bill for Fiscal Year 2023. The projects will help rebuild and repair infrastructure, support public health and educational facilities, invest in scientific research, and improve coastal resilience. President Biden is expected to sign the bill soon.\n\n\"These projects are a major achievement for my Congressional district and will help rebuild critical infrastructure, promote public health, and bolster educational funding in Middlesex and Monmouth Counties,\" Congressman Pallone said. \"These investments will also help create jobs with better pay, make us safer, strengthen our communities, and address the climate crisis. I'm proud that we were able to get these projects across the finish line and look forward to seeing President Biden sign the underlying legislation into law.\"\n\nThe 15 projects include:\n\n$2.1 million to repair deteriorating bulkhead in Atlantic Highlands that is one of the most critical pieces of infrastructure for residents and businesses near the public marina.\n\n$500,000 for the Boys and Girls Clubs of Monmouth County to support school-aged children who have experienced trauma and abuse in their homes.\n\n$6 million to help build the Ferry Terminal Building in Carteret that will run from Central New Jersey to downtown Manhattan.\n\n$1.25 million for the restoration of the Church of the Presidents in Long Branch.\n\n$640,000 to educate entrepreneurs from underserved communities in Central New Jersey at Monmouth University.\n\n$500,000 to complete the final phase of an extensive restoration project at the Metlar-Bodine House Museum Historic Site, including construction of the Forever the 4th gallery that will feature the Ross Hall Wall and other important historic treasures.\n\n$2.5 million for coastal resiliency projects in the communities around Naval Weapons Station Earle.\n\n$2.25 million for Old Bridge to construct a new multipurpose building along the Laurence Harbor beachfront that will help the community expand recreational opportunities for residents.\n\n$1 million for Middlesex College to enhance student support to improve retention and increase graduation rates for adult learners and improve the lives of Middlesex County residents who have been incarcerated or at greater risk of being incarcerated.\n\n$26 million to dredge both the entrance of the Shrewsbury and Navesink Rivers at Sandy Hook as well as the Navesink River to Red Bank and the Shrewsbury River as far as the Branchport Avenue Bridge in Long Branch \u2013 a total of approximately 14 miles.\n\n$2.25 million to create a waterfront park in South Amboy by reclaiming and rehabilitating the waterfront area to create an open park concept and conservation area.\n\n$370,725 to modernize the emergency operations center in South Plainfield with new equipment and upgrades the Communications and 9-1-1 Center used to coordinate police, fire, and EMS services during emergencies.\n\n$3 million to renovate and expand the Dr. William Toth Health Center in Edison to better meet the health needs of the community, especially seniors.\n\n$1.5 million for Perth Amboy to complete improvements and construct multipurpose fields at the Veterans Memorial Youth League Complex Park.\n\n$1.5 million to purchase new electric buses and charging infrastructure in Woodbridge, creating cleaner air and more transportation options.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-secures-robust-funding-armenia-and-artsakh-omnibus-spending-bill", "Pallone Secures Robust Funding for Armenia and Artsakh in the Omnibus Spending Bill", "2022-12-23", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone, Jr.", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", "pallone", "https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2013 Congressional Caucus on Armenian Issues Co-Chair Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06), Jackie Speier (CA-14), David Valadao (CA-21), and Adam B. Schiff (CA-28) announced the inclusion of an unprecedented $60 million in economic assistance for Armenia and $2 million for demining activities in Artsakh in the Consolidated Appropriations Act spending bill for Fiscal Year 2023. This welcomed news comes after the Caucus Co-Chairs and 60 Members of Congress sent a letter in April, requesting the Appropriations Subcommittee on State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs include robust aid for Armenia and Artsakh in the bill.\n\nThe funding will help Armenia bolster its economic development, private sector productivity, energy independence, and democratic and rule of law reforms. The bill also includes funding for demining activities that will help clear some of the dangerous mines and unexploded ordinances on civilian lands in Artsakh. Additionally, the bill includes language requiring the State Department and USAID to develop an assistance strategy by identifying resources and programs available to address humanitarian and recovery needs from the deadly 2020 war provoked by Azerbaijan in Artsakh.\n\n\"The significant economic support for Armenia and Artsakh included in the Fiscal Year 2023 funding bill demonstrates a firm commitment from Congress to the Armenian people. We are pleased with the strong commitment the Appropriations Committee has made to the U.S.-Armenia relationship, and especially thank Appropriations State and Foreign Relations Subcommittee Chairwoman Barbara Lee (CA-13) and others on the Committee for their work on this bill. This funding will go a long way in helping Armenia to build upon the significant democratic reforms it is currently enacting and help it grow into a strong regional economic partner for the United States,\" the lawmakers said.\n\n\"We also welcome the inclusion of demining funding for Artsakh and the language requiring the Administration to develop an assistance strategy to address the ongoing humanitarian needs relating to the 2020 war. But more must be done to help the people of Armenia and Artsakh in their time of need, especially as Azerbaijan continues its illegal blockade of the Lachin Corridor that is preventing the transportation of vital food, energy, medical supplies, and other essential good from going through, while also restricting civilian freedom of movement. Holding Azerbaijan accountable for their aggressions and destabilizing actions in the region is the only way to protect the people of Artsakh from this man-made humanitarian disaster and find a lasting settlement for this conflict. We will continue to explore every action possible to halt any further funding to the corrupt Aliyev regime and bring them back to the negotiating table through the OSCE Minsk Group and other multilateral processes,\" the lawmakers concluded.\n\nIn September 2020, Azerbaijan, actively aided by Turkey and foreign mercenaries, initiated a deadly invasion of Artsakh that led to six weeks of devastating fighting that killed more than 5,000 people and forced more than 100,000 ethnic Armenians to flee their homes. Artsakh and Armenia continue to grapple with an ongoing humanitarian crisis that resulted from the invasion.\n\nAzerbaijan continues to provocatively station troops in Armenian territory while falsely declaring the land as its own and illegally holding ethnic Armenians as detainees and prisoners of war in contravention of international human rights law. It has also weaponized civilian infrastructure like the Lachin Corridor and natural gas pipes connecting Armenia and Artsakh to intimidate Artsakh and fabricate a humanitarian crisis that threatens the 120,000 people who live there.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-watson-coleman-celebrates-legislative-victories-in-omnibus-funding-legislation", "Rep. Watson Coleman Celebrates Legislative Victories in Omnibus Funding Legislation", "2022-12-23", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Bonnie Watson Coleman", "W000822", "watsoncoleman.house.gov", "watsoncoleman", "https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) voted to pass an omnibus funding bill that would keep the federal government funded through the end of fiscal year 2023.\n\nThe bill addresses many of the priorities of the 12th District, including mental health equity, funding for public transit, and an increase in funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which provides lifesaving assistance for Americans facing food insecurity . Also included in the legislation are the Congresswoman\u2019s National Liberty Memorial Preservation Act and an indefinite suspension of clawbacks for victims of Superstorm Sandy.\n\n\u201cBy passing this omnibus funding bill, Congress is not only keeping the government running, but also directly addressing the needs of working families in New Jersey\u2019s 12th District and beyond,\u201d said Congresswoman Watson Coleman. \u201cIn addition to funding essential government programs, this legislation delivers real results for some of our most vulnerable communities, including those still recovering from Superstorm Sandy. These families will now be able to put this decade-long nightmare behind them.\u201d\n\nAlso included in the package is the final $30 million needed to complete the Green Brook Sub Basin Flood Control Project. The Congresswoman previously secured nearly $500 million for the project.\n\n\u201cFor decades, this project has gone unfinished due to insufficient federal funding. The fiscal year 2023 omnibus will finally change that,\u201d said Congresswoman Watson Coleman. \u201cCentral Jersey communities have always faced the risk of flooding, and climate change has only made this flooding more frequent, more severe, and more deadly. By investing in infrastructure like the Green Brook Sub Basin Flood Control Project, we are protecting at-risk communities in the 12th District and preventing further loss of life.\u201d\n\nInvestments from this omnibus legislation will advance the Congresswoman\u2019s agenda of building an America that works for all. Investments include:\n\nGuarantees a year of health care coverage for 940,000 children in New Jersey enrolled in Medicaid or the Children\u2019s Health Insurance Program.\n\n$25 million in additional funding for the National Labor Relations Board, the agency responsible for protecting workers\u2019 rights and enforcing laws against unjust labor practices\n\nA block grant for early childhood development and an increase in funding for Head Start, a federal program providing early childhood education and health services to low-income families\n\nAdditional funding for the new 24/7 9-8-8 National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline\n\nThe largest-ever increase in maternal health block grants\n\nLegal aid assistance to protect renters from unlawful eviction\n\nExpanded access to PrEP to prevent the spread of HIV\n\nIncreased funding to support the Violence Against Women Act, which provides for responses to domestic and sexual violence\n\n$125 million in grants to support the Second Chance Act, which facilitates programs to reduce recidivism by helping previously incarcerated Americans re-enter society\n\nHate crime prevention, including funding for both community social justice organizations and the Department of Justice\u2019s Civil Rights Division\n\n$3.4 billion for energy efficiency and renewable energy, including $250 million for battery and electrification technologies\n\n$1.5 billion for LIHEAP, which helps keep low-income families warm and safe during the winter\n\nDisaster supplemental relief, including $1.8 billion for flood prevention\n\nDedicates the highest-ever level of federal funding for the arts and humanities, including $207 million each for the National Endowments for the Arts and Humanities and $1.1 billion for the Smithsonian Institution\n\nMany of the legislation\u2019s provisions would have an outsized impact on New Jersey communities. Amtrak will receive $2.45 billion, more than half of which will go to the Northeast Corridor. Additionally, the federal grant program funding the Gateway Tunnel project will receive $2.6 billion. The Army Corps of Engineers, which is tasked with building and maintaining infrastructure and military facilities, will receive $37.7 million for projects in New Jersey.\n\nThe government funding package will create good-paying jobs, increase opportunity for the middle class and small businesses, and provide a lifeline for working families. The funding for New Jersey\u2019s 12th District and funding increases for critical government programs will continue to reverse decades of disinvestment in our communities.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-watson-coleman-celebrates-reauthorization-of-national-heritage-areas", "Rep. Watson Coleman Celebrates Reauthorization of National Heritage Areas", "2022-12-22", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Bonnie Watson Coleman", "W000822", "watsoncoleman.house.gov", "watsoncoleman", "https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Passage of the National Heritage Area Act to reauthorize NHAs for 15 years will help ensure long-term stability and investment\n\nToday, the House passed S. 1942, the National Heritage Area Act with vast bipartisan support. This bill reauthorizes 45 of the 55 National Heritage Areas for the next 15 years. This is an improvement over the standard 2-year renewals many sites must apply for each Congress. The long-term reauthorization allows for better planning efforts and investment by the heritage areas.\n\n\u201cBy passing this long-term extension our National Heritage Areas, including the Crossroads of the American Revolution NHA in New Jersey, will be able to better plan their programming and investments,\u201d said Congresswoman Watson Coleman. \u201cWith the upcoming celebrations of the 250th Anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, this extension gives our NHA\u2019s the confidence to prepare for increased tourism surrounding the nation\u2019s Semiquincentennial.\u201d\n\nNational Heritage Areas drive economic opportunity in local communities across the country. The NHA Act also establishes the first-ever standardized criteria for designating new NHAs and strengthen accountability by creating an evaluation process for existing sites.\n\n\"Crossroads - New Jersey's only NHA - was scheduled to sunset in September 2023,\" said Crossroads Executive Director Carrie Fellows. \"As we ramp up planning for the 250th, Crossroads is working harder than ever to raise the profile of New Jersey's role in the American Revolution, tell its stories and make the connections between people and places that changed history. Now we will be able to do that work, knowing we'll still exist after September. This investment in our future means a great deal to me and my colleagues in the Alliance for National Heritage Areas (ANHA) and we are grateful.\"\n\nThe Crossroads of the American Revolution National Heritage Area encompasses approximately 2,155 square miles over 212 municipalities and works with dozens of historic sites in New Jersey including Washington Crossing where Washington Crossed the Delaware for a surprise attack on Hessian troops during Christmas 1776. General George Washington spent more time in New Jersey than any other colony during the Revolutionary War.\n\nCongresswoman Watson Coleman was a cosponsor of the House companion bill, H.R. 1316. S. 1942 passed the House by a vote of 326 to 95.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-beyer-lead-colleagues-in-urging-cpsc-to-address-dangerous-indoor-air-pollutions-emitted-by-gas-stoves", "Booker, Beyer Lead Colleagues in Urging CPSC to Address Dangerous Indoor Air Pollutions Emitted by Gas Stoves", "2022-12-22", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.) and U.S. Representative Don Beyer (D-VA) urged Alexander Hoehn-Saric, Chair of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), to address the high level of dangerous indoor air pollutants emitted by gas stoves.\n\nReports have found that gas stoves, which are used by more than 40 million homes across the country, emit dangerous air pollutants such as nitrogen dioxide (NO2), carbon monoxide (CO), and fine particulate matter (PM2.5). Without adequate ventilation, this can cause serious health risks and raise indoor air pollutants to levels that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) considers to be unsafe even for the outdoors.\n\n\u201cIn addition to the climate impacts, these emissions represent real health risks to millions of Americans. Both NO2 and PM2.5 are known to exacerbate respiratory conditions,\u201d wrote the members of Congress to Alexander Hoehn-Saric, Chair of the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. \u201cShort-term exposure to NO2 is linked to worsening asthma in children, and long-term exposure has been determined to likely cause the development of asthma. Both pollutants have also been linked to cardiovascular impacts and a range of other adverse health issues. Even low-level CO exposure can exacerbate cardiovascular illness among people with coronary heart disease and other vulnerable populations.\u201d\n\nThe members of Congress continued, \u201cThese emissions can create a cumulative burden to households that are already more likely to face higher exposure to both indoor and outdoor air pollution. Statistics show that Black, Latino, and low-income households are more likely to experience disproportionate air pollution, either from being more likely to be located near a waste incinerator or coal ash site, or living in smaller homes with poor ventilation, malfunctioning appliances, mold, dust mites, secondhand smoke, lead dust, pests, and other maintenance deficiencies.\u201d\n\nAdditionally, the members of Congress urged that the CPSC consider taking the following actions to help protect Americans from the hazards of gas stove emissions:\n\nRequire gas stoves to be sold with range hoods that meet mandatory performance standards, assessing their efficiency of removing the pollutants,\n\nWhere feasible, issue mandatory performance standards for gas stoves that address steady-state-off leakage, including requiring automatic shut-off valves,\n\nWhere feasible, issue mandatory performance standards for gas stoves that address the health impacts of hazardous emissions,\n\nRequire labels on gas stoves that educate consumers about their exposure risks,\n\nLaunch a public education campaign on the health risks of cooking with a gas stove, and steps that consumers can take to minimize their risk.\n\nThe letter is cosigned by Senators Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Ed Markey (D-MA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Patty Murray (D-WA), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), and Bernard Sanders (I-VT).\n\nThe letter is cosigned by Representatives Jared Huffman (D-CA), Shontel M. Brown (D-OH), Mark Takano (D-CA), Alan S. Lowenthal (D-CA), Ted Lieu (D-CA), Andr\u00e9 Carson (D-IN), Barbara Lee (D-CA), Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC), Gwen S. Moore (D-WI), Stephen F. Lynch (D-MA), and Katie Porter (D-CA).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-menendez-outline-wins-for-new-jersey-in-fy23-funding-bill", "Booker, Menendez Outline Wins for New Jersey in FY23 Funding Bill", "2022-12-22", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "The bill provides $1.7 trillion in funding, which reflects increases in both non-defense and defense spending and includes several community projects across the state\n\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senators Cory Booker and Bob Menendez (both D-N.J.) today voted to approve the Fiscal Year 2023 Omnibus (H.R. 2617), a government funding bill which provides significant investments in health care, transportation, housing, and education programs. Senators Booker and Menendez also fought to secure federal funding in the bill designed exclusively for community projects across New Jersey and for an amendment to provide relief to 9/11 families and other U.S. victims of state-sponsored terrorism.\n\n\u201cThe Senate passed a bipartisan government funding bill that invests in our future, helps manage rising costs, and strengthens our economy, health, and well-being. This bill ensures our children, our families, our troops, and our veterans have access to vital services and programs. It will improve financial security through emergency savings accounts and makes significant investments in our region\u2019s infrastructure, including advancing the Gateway Program. The bill also provides critical security and humanitarian aid to the people of Ukraine as they fight to defend their democracy from Russia\u2019s invasion,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cI am disappointed we were unable to reach an agreement to restore the expanded child tax credit to provide relief for millions of American families, including our most vulnerable; to secure critically needed increases in global food aid; or to include measures to finally end the crack-powder cocaine sentencing disparity that has contributed to the explosion of mass incarceration in this country. This bill caps off one of the most productive Congresses in history. But there is still work to be done, and I look forward to working with colleagues next year to reinstate the child tax credit expansion and take steps toward building a more equitable country.\u201d\n\n\u201cWith today\u2019s passage of the FY23 funding bill, we\u2019ve been able to support many of the priorities I\u2019ve been fighting for during the 117th Congress. From securing a five-year extension of the Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting Program and an additional 200 slots for Graduate Medical Education to providing justice and relief to 9/11 families and other U.S. victims of terror and funding Puerto Rico\u2019s Medicaid program for the next five years, this spending package provides key investments for communities all over the country,\u201d said Senator Menendez. \u201cI\u2019m also pleased to have secured specific provisions for the state of New Jersey, including $181 million for individual projects and programs across the Garden State and funding for key projects like Gateway and the Army Corps of Engineers. While this bill should have included a provision paving the way for the Latino Museum to be built on the National Mall \u2013 I\u2019m proud to have voted for the package and look forward to working with my colleagues in the next Congress to advance the issues that were left behind.\u201d\n\nH.R. 2617 provides $1.7 trillion in funding, which reflects increases in both non-defense and defense spending over FY22. Overall, the 12 appropriations bills provide $772.5 billion in nondefense funding and $858 billion in defense funding, including $44.9 billion in emergency assistance to Ukraine and our NATO allies and $2.4 billion for states who helped resettle Ukrainian refugees.\n\nA number of legislative changes championed by Senator Booker are part of the package, including: making permanent the option that states can provide 12 months of continuous Medicaid or CHIP coverage during postpartum, an effort Sen. Booker has called for in his MOMMIES Act and temporarily secured in the American Rescue Plan; the reauthorization of the Alternative to Opioids in Emergency Departments Reauthorization Act, a Booker bill that establishes a grant program for developing and implementing alternatives to opioids for pain management in hospitals and emergency departments; Sen. Booker\u2019s Enslaved Voyages Memorial Act, which authorizes the establishment of a memorial in Washington, DC, to honor enslaved persons who were forcibly transported across the Atlantic; Sen. Booker\u2019s bipartisan Emergency Savings Act, legislation to help Americans save for unexpected expenses through workplace emergency savings accounts; an additional $50 million for community violence intervention efforts; Booker\u2019s bipartisan FDA Modernization Act that would end the outdated requirement that experimental drugs be tested on animals, instead allowing for non-animal testing when appropriate; a modified version of Sen. Booker\u2019s Right Whale Coexistence Act to establish a new federal grant program to protect the critically endangered North Atlantic right whale; and additional funding for Small Business Administration to support entrepreneurship.\n\nSenator Menendez secured several legislative victories in the package including: a five-year extension of the Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting (MIECHV) Program, the first funding increase for this vital program in a long time; an additional 200 new graduate medical education (GME) positions to respond to the dire need for mental health professionals; and five-year funding for Puerto Rico\u2019s Medicaid with a Federal Medical Assistance Percentage (FMAP) of 76%. Additionally, key provisions from Sen. Menendez\u2019s bipartisan, bicameral DIVERSE Trials Act to help improve patient access to and diversity in clinical drug and treatment trials, as well as the reauthorization of the Minority Fellowship Program (MFP) included in the Senator\u2019s Pursing Equity in Mental Health Act (S.1795), were also both included in the omnibus spending package.\n\nNew Jersey specific provisions include:\n\nGateway: $1.26 billion for Amtrak\u2019s Northeast Corridor, an increase of $385.5 million over FY22 levels. The bill funds the Capital Investment Grants (CIG) program at $2.635 billion in total. $2.21 billion of this is for normal FY23 appropriations, and the remaining $425 million is to help existing projects, like the Portal North Bridge, offset increased costs. The bill includes a $25 million increase in funding for the Portal Bridge in New Jersey \u2013 a key component of the broader Gateway Program \u2013 as part of a pot of money secured by Sens. Menendez and Booker to support projects affected by inflation and supply chain disruptions.\n\nHoboken Rebuild by Design Project: Sens. Booker and Menendez fought to include an important extension for the Hoboken Rebuild by Design Project that will allow critical flood safety improvements to move toward completion in Hoboken, New Jersey.\n\nTeterboro Airport: The bill includes Sens. Menendez and Booker\u2019s report language prohibiting the use of funds to increase the aircraft weight restrictions at Teterboro Airport.\n\nArmy Corps of Engineers: The bill includes $37,300,000 in funding for New Jersey Army Corps projects. Sens. Menendez and Booker successfully fought to secure a critical legislative fix for the Green Brook Flood Risk Management Project that will allow for the allocation of additional funding at full federal cost share to the project, which is critical to the safety of New Jersey communities.\n\nManufacturing of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs): included in the bill (Section 3204) was partially authored by Sen. Menendez, and would create an advanced manufacturing center of excellence to help increase American manufacturing of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs).\n\nMore broadly, the FY23 funding bill includes investments in:\n\nEducation\n\nEarly Childhood Education:increase of $2.8 billion above the FY22 enacted level.\n\nHead Start: $12 billion for FY23, an increase of $960 million over FY22, which includes a $596 million cost-of-living adjustment for Head Start staff, and $262 million in quality improvement funding.\n\nK-12 Education: $458 billion, an increase of $2.4 billion over FY22.\n\nChild Care and Development Block Grant (CCDBG): $8 billion, an increase of $960 million over the enacted FY22 level.\n\nHistorically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs): provides $396 million, an increase of $33 million above the FY22 level.\n\nHispanic Serving Institutions (HSIs):provides $271 million for HSIs including for Post-Baccalaureate Opportunities for Hispanic Americans and Food and Agriculture to provide Education Grants for Hispanic-Serving Institutions.\n\nTransportation & Infrastructure\n\nRoads and Bridges: $62.9 billion for the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), an increase of $2.3 billion compared to FY22. Of this total, $58.765 billion is from the Highway Trust Fund to meet the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act obligations for Federal-aid highway programs and $3.418 billion from the general fund, which includes $1.145 billion to reduce the backlog of structurally deficient bridges.\n\nPublic Transportation Grants:$105 million for federal grants under the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) for Public Transportation Security.\n\nPort Security: $100 million for federal grants under FEMA for Port Security.\n\nDisaster Relief: $803 million in emergency disaster relief for the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and $213.9 million for the Federal Transit Administration (FTA).\n\nInvestments in High-Poverty Areas: Included language to target federal resources to high- and persistent-poverty to more than a dozen programs within the Departments of Agriculture, Commerce, Treasury, and EPA. Sen. Booker leads the Targeting Resources to Communities in Need Act, a bill to establish a government-wide effort to increase the share of federal dollars going to high need communities. The bill also contains new language directing the Economic Development Administration to create a plan to increase the share of investments across all EDA programs in persistent poverty counties, high-poverty areas.\n\nHealth Care\n\nMaternal Health: The bill includes $324 billion for maternal health, an increase of $120 million. The bill makes permanent the option for states to provide 12 months of postpartum coverage to pregnant individuals in Medicaid and CHIP, which is a critical step towards ensuring yearlong coverage for all pregnant people nationwide.\n\nFirefighter Cancer Registry: The bill provides $5.5 million in funding for the Firefighter Cancer Registry, a $2.5 increase from FY22. Sen. Menendez led the request for $5.5 million in funding.\n\nProstate Cancer Research:$110 million for prostate cancer research and $45 million for ovarian cancer- flat over last year.\n\nNational Institutes of Health (NIH): The bill includes $47.5 billion for the NIH, an increase of $2.5 billion.\n\nCenters for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC): The bill includes $9.2 billion for the CDC, an increase of $760 million. This funding is critical to support the US response to continuing and emerging public health threats.\n\nState Opioid Response:The bill includes $1.6 billion, an increase of $50 million for states\u2019 response to the opioid pandemic. Sen. Booker\u2019s bill also authorizes the Alternative to Opioids in the Emergency Department (ALTO) Reauthorization Act, which establishes a grant program for developing and implementing alternatives to opioids for pain management in hospitals and emergency departments. Yearly funding has increased from $6 million to $8 million.\n\nPublic Health Emergency Preparedness (PHEP): The bill includes $735 million, a $20 million increase over last FY\u2019s $715 million.\n\nGlobal Fund to Fight AIDS, TB, and Malaria: $2 billion included, a $440 million above FY22.\n\nEnvironment\n\nEnvironmental Protection Agency: The bill provides $10.135 billion for the EPA, an increase of $576 million over the FY22 enacted level. This funding invests in core environmental programs, providing increases for EPA enforcement and compliance programs (+$72 million), clean air programs (+$32 million), water programs (+$33 million), and toxic chemical programs (+$20 million) \u2013 helping advance environmental protection and environmental justice throughout the country.\n\nOcean Programs:The bill funds the Sea Grant program at $80 million, a $4 million increase above the FY22 enacted level. Coastal Zone Management grants are funded at $81.5 million, $2.5 million above the FY22 enacted level. The National Estuarine Research Reserve System is funded at $32.5 million, an increase of $2.8 million. NOAA Habitat Conservation and Restoration is funded at $56.684 million. Sens. Menendez and Booker write an appropriations letter each year requesting funding for these programs.\n\nEnergy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE):The bill provides record funding for EERE at $3.46 billion, an increase of $260 million above fiscal year 2022 enacted.\n\nWater Infrastructure: The bill continues steady funding for the State Revolving Funds, including $1.126 billion for Drinking Water and $1.638 billion for Clean Water. The Water Infrastructure Financing Innovation Act (WIFIA) loan program increased by $6.1 million totaling to $75.640 million. The bill provides $27.5 million for lead contamination testing at schools and childcare centers.\n\nWild and Scenic Rivers:The bill funds the Partnership Wild and Scenic Rivers program at $5.3 million for fiscal year 2023, an increase of $900,000 and building on significant prior year increases that Sen. Menendez helped secure by leading the annual appropriations letter for the program.\n\nHousing, Community, and Economic Development\n\nCommunity Development Block Grant (CDBG): $3.3 billion for the CBDG to support community development activities to build stronger and more resilient communities.\n\nRooftop Solar in Puerto Rico:The bill includes $1 billion to assist in the deployment of rooftop solar and energy storage systems for low-income households and households with people with disabilities in Puerto Rico. Sen. Menendez championed this effort in the Senate, which will help to increase grid resiliency in the island especially following natural disasters.\n\nChoice Neighborhoods: The bill provides $350 million for the Choice Neighborhoods Initiative, the same as FY22. The Choice Neighborhoods program supports locally driven strategies that address struggling neighborhoods with distressed public or HUD-assisted housing through a comprehensive approach to neighborhood transformation.\n\nPublic Housing: The bill provides a total of $8.514 billion for Public Housing, an increase of $64 million from FY22.\n\nHousing for the Elderly: The bill provides $1.075 billion for Section 202 Housing for the Elderly, including $120 million for service coordinators. Sen. Menendez led a letter requesting full funding for contract renewals and $600 million for new construction.\n\nHousing for Persons with Disabilities: The bill provides $360 million for Section 811 Housing for persons with disabilities. In total, the increases to 811 and 202 will provide housing for 2,910 new households.\n\nHousing Counseling Assistance: The bill provides $57.5 million for housing counseling assistance, unchanged from FY22.\n\nFinancial Assistance for Home Heating: The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) received $5 billion, which is $1.2 billion more than in FY22. The program provides financial assistance for home heating and cooling to low-income households including those in New Jersey.\n\nDisaster Supplemental: The Disaster supplemental includes $3 billion in CDBG-DR for 2022 natural disasters, which includes funding for Puerto Rico\u2019s recovery of Hurricane Fiona. It also includes a $5 billion appropriation to the Disaster Relief Fund, which pays out for expenditures for FEMA individual assistance program. The Disaster Relief Fund also covers infrastructure repairs under FEMA\u2019s Public Assistance program.\n\nNFIP Extension: Despite Sen. Menendez\u2019s fight to reform the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) the omnibus only extends the program until September 30, 2023.\n\nSupport for disadvantaged communities: The bill includes $800 million for RAISE Grants (formerly TIGER/BUILD), including not less than $20 million for grants to assist areas of persistent poverty and historically disadvantaged communities.\n\nInclusive Zoning to Increase the Supply of Affordable Housing: The bill includes a new $85 million competitive grant program that will reward state, local, and regional jurisdictions that have made progress in improving inclusionary zoning practices, land use policies, and housing infrastructure that will ultimately increase the supply of affordable housing. Sen. Booker has been leading efforts in the Senate to expand inclusive zoning policies and has included zoning reform provisions in his legislation to address the affordable housing crisis, the HOME ACT.\n\nEnslaved Voyages Memorial: The bill includes Sen. Booker\u2019s Enslaved Voyages Memorial Act, which authorizes the establishment of a memorial on federal land in the District of Columbia to honor enslaved persons forcibly transported across the Atlantic.\n\nScience and Innovation\n\nCHIPS and Science Act:The bill provides $1.8 billion in new funding to implement the bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act of 2022. This includes $820 million in the CJS Appropriations bill and $980 million in supplemental funding to help jumpstart the initiative. The CHIPS and Science Act sets out an ambitious goal of doubling funding for science and technology programs by 2027 to help drive U.S. economic competitiveness.\n\nNASA:The bill funds the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) at $25.4 billion. This is $1.34 billion more than the fiscal year 2022 enacted level.\n\nPublic Safety and Justice\n\nCommunity Violence Intervention: The bill provides a total of $50 million for community violence intervention programs.\n\nRecidivism Reduction: The bill provides a total of $35 million for programs to reduce recidivism rates for people reentering society.\n\nReentry Programs and Research: The bill increases Second Chance Act funding from $115 million to $125 million to address a wide array of issues returning citizens face when reentering society after their time incarcerated, including substance abuse treatment, mental health services, job training, and housing services.\n\nPublic Defense: The bill provides $1,382,680,000 in funds for the operation of federal defender organizations to ensure adequate representation in federal court, an increase of nearly $39 million from FY22.\n\nJudicial Training Programs: The bill provides $22 million to the Department of Justice Office on Violence Against Women for grants to support families within the justice system, a ten percent increase from FY22.\n\nFinancial Services and General Government\n\nCommunity Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs): The bill provides $324 million for the CDFI Fund, $29 million more than FY22. Sen. Menendez led the funding support letter for the CDFI Fund requesting $331 million.\n\nSecurities and Exchange Commission (SEC): The bill provides $2.149 billion for the SEC. Sen. Menendez led the funding support letter for this amount.\n\nEmergency Savings: The bill includes Sen. Booker\u2019s bipartisan Emergency Savings Act, a bill to facilitate convenient and affordable access to workplace emergency savings accounts, improving financial security, and reducing retirement leakage.\n\nDisaster Retirement Savings: The bill includes Sen. Menendez\u2019s provision that would allow for individuals to permanently be able to withdraw up to $22,000, per Stafford-declared disaster, from an employer-sponsored retirement plan or IRA without being subject to the normal 10% early distribution tax penalty. This provision would also allow the emergency distribution to spread over a taxpayer\u2019s income over a three-year-period. This provision would be applied retroactive to January 26, 2021\u2014the expiration date of the last Stafford-declared disaster that allowed for retirement plan distributions, thus allowing for coverage for Hurricane Ida.\n\nSBA Funding: The bill provides $1.218 billion for the Small Business Administration, which is $188 million more than fiscal year 2022. That includes $320 million for Entrepreneurial Development grants, which is $30 million above the 2022 \u2013 including $140 million for Small Business Development Centers, $27 million for Women\u2019s Business Centers, and $41 million for Microloan technical assistance. It also increased funding for SBA\u2019s Growth Accelerators from $3 million to $10 million, to stimulate innovation and entrepreneurship across the country. Sen. Booker leads the appropriations request and the Startup Opportunity Accelerator Act, which would authorize and scale the program.\n\nMinority Business:The bill provides $70 million for the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) to help minority owned businesses grow and succeed and to implement the new programs authorized in the Minority Business Development Agency Act, which passed as part of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. This is an increase of $15 million, or 27 percent, above the fiscal year 2022 enacted level.\n\nData on Child Poverty: The bill included Sen. Booker\u2019s request to create more frequent and timely measures of poverty, including child poverty. The bill also included funding to support these frequent and timely measures of material hardship, including measures focused on children and families. Currently, the U.S. Census Bureau releases poverty estimates annually and with a significant lag; further, this data can fail to capture the full scope of hardship and deprivation children and families confront. These changes will help us better understand child poverty and child wellbeing in real time.\n\nVolunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) and Tax Counseling for the Elderly (TCE) Sites: The bill provides $11 million for the Tax Counseling for the Elderly Program and $40 million for the Community Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program, which helps low- and moderate-income individuals and families nationwide comply with their tax obligations and maximize their returns and savings. That is an increase of $10 million over last year.\n\nWorker Protection Programs: The bill makes important investments in agencies that help workers receive the pay they earn; ensure that employers provide safe and healthful working conditions; and strengthen trading partner commitments to comply with labor rights under free trade agreements and preference programs. The Wage and Hour division receives $260 million, an increase of $9 million. Wage and Hour recovers wages for workers that do not receive the pay they are entitled to receive for their work, which on average amounted to $1,212 for each of the 193,349 workers assisted by the agency in 2021. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) receives $632 million, an increase of $20 million. OSHA works to ensure that employers are following the law and providing safe and healthful workplaces for their employees. The bill includes an increase of $25 million for the National Labor Relations Board, which administers and enforces the National Labor Relations Act and protects employee and employer rights under the law. The bill also establishes critical worker protections through the Pregnant Worker Fairness Act, a bill to provide expecting and new moms with temporary, reasonable accommodations to avoid devastating health complications and support their families and ensure they are no longer fired or forced off the job, and the PUMP For Nursing Mothers Act, a bill expanding worker protections for nursing workers, a bill which Senator Booker co-led.\n\nVeterans\n\nDepartment of Veterans Affairs: The bill provides the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and related agencies $135.2 billion in non-defense discretionary funding, as well as $168.6 billion in mandatory funding, to fulfill our obligations to our nation\u2019s veterans. This is $34 billion above fiscal year 2022 levels. This includes $118.7 billion for VA medical care in fiscal year 2023, a $21.7 billion or 22.4 percent increase over fiscal year 2022. $5 billion is included in the Cost of War Toxic Exposures Fund, which will be used to implement the PACT Act.\n\nWorld War II Bill: Division U of the Omnibus contains the Joseph Maxwell Cleland and Robert Joseph Dole Memorial Veterans Benefits and Health Care Improvement Act of 2022. This is SVAC\u2019s end of year package which includes S. 1040, Sen. Menendez\u2019s bill to provide all veterans of World War II healthcare services through the VA.\n\nVoting Rights and Elections\n\nElectoral College Reform: The bill includes the Electoral Count Reform Act of 2022 to improve how elections are certified and clarify that the Vice President only plays a ceremonial role in the certification process. The bill, co-sponsored by Sen. Booker, will prevent attempts such as those used by former President Trump to prevent the certification of election results.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-secures-funding-for-critical-new-jersey-projects-in-major-government-funding-bill", "Booker Secures Funding for Critical New Jersey Projects in Major Government Funding Bill", "2022-12-22", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "NEWARK, N.J. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) announced millions of dollars in federal funding for critical New Jersey programs, projects, and priorities he worked to secure were included in the $1.7 trillion Fiscal Year 2023 government funding bill.\n\n\u201cFrom upgrading our vital infrastructure to increasing access to affordable housing, to creating and expanding health programs that promote mental health care and combat the opioid crisis, the projects funded in this bill will provide major benefits to communities across New Jersey,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cThese vital projects will create jobs, stimulate economic activity, and keep New Jersey families healthy and safe. I am proud to have fought to ensure this funding was included and am grateful for the organizations, community leaders, and elected officials who are working tirelessly to advance these critical initiatives. As these projects all across our state move forward, I\u2019m excited to see the positive impact they will have on the quality of life of New Jerseyans.\u201d\n\nSenator Booker, alongside Senator Bob Menendez (D-NJ), were able to secure tens of millions of dollars for key community projects in cities and townships across New Jersey including Newark, Passaic, Bayonne, Paterson, Lakewood, Clayton, Cape May and Mount Holly; and for countywide projects in Burlington County, Union County and Hudson County, just to name a few.\n\nIn total, Booker secured $166.2 million in funding for 130 essential New Jersey projects and programs, detailed in the table below.\n\nFunding highlights include:\n\n$3,452,973for the Town of Parsippany-Troy Hills for the Pump Station No. 4 Sanitary Sewer Redirection Project\n\n$2,347,000for Keyport Borough for Water Main Replacement and Upgrade Project\n\n$1,200,000for Union City Police Department\u2019s Digital Trunked Radio System Replacement\n\n$1,000,000 for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Essex, Hudson & Union Counties for mentoring and student support\n\n$32,000,000 for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for beach replenishment on Long Beach Island\n\n$10,000,000for the City of North Wildwood to extend the seawall in North Wildwood\n\n$3,550,000 for the City of Newark for the Lincoln Park restoration project\n\n$3,000,000for the South Jersey Transportation Authority for its Atlantic City International Airport (ACY) Cargo Taxiway Project\n\n$1,333,000 for the Town of Newton for First Response Communications Equipment\n\n$1,000,000for the New Jersey Performing Arts Center in Newark for Cooperman Family Arts Education and Community Center Construction\n\n$3,452,972for the Willingboro Municipal Utilities Authority for the Well 5A PFOS Treatment System Upgrade\n\n$1,000,000for the Inspira Health Network for the Cumberland County NJ Youth Violence Cessation Initiative\n\n$600,000for the City of Cape May to expand its Drinking Water Treatment Plant\n\n$445,000 for the New Jersey Coalition Against Sexual Assault for its Accessibility Capacity Building Project\n\n$1,000,000for the New Jersey Coalition to End Domestic Violence for services for domestic violence survivors and their families and its Legal Representation Project\n\n$1,404,800for the Rutgers University-Camden Community Partnership Centers for community and partnership centers\n\n$2,170,000for the City of Elizabeth for Replacement of Known Lead Service Lines", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-watson-coleman-statement-on-ukrainian-president-zelenskyys-address-to-congress", "Rep. Watson Coleman Statement on Ukrainian President Zelenskyy\u2019s Address to Congress", "2022-12-21", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Bonnie Watson Coleman", "W000822", "watsoncoleman.house.gov", "watsoncoleman", "https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Tonight, Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) attended Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy\u2019s address to a joint session of Congress. Following Zelenskyy\u2019s speech, the Congresswoman issued this statement:\n\n\u201cFor ten months, President Zelenskyy has led his nation with unwavering courage as Ukrainians fight back against Putin\u2019s horrific, unlawful invasion. I am in awe of his heroic leadership and dedication to his people.\n\n\u201cAs the sovereign nation of Ukraine battles Putin\u2019s forces, we are reminded that this war is not simply one of Ukraine versus Russia. This is a conflict of oppressed versus oppressor, of liberty versus tyranny. The fight for Ukraine is the fight for democracy itself.\n\n\u201cWith bipartisan support, Congress has delivered billions in aid for Ukraine this year. President Zelenskyy\u2019s address comes as Congress prepares to pass another round of security, economic, and humanitarian support for his people. Appealing to our shared values of freedom and self-determination, President Zelenskyy brought together Members of Congress from across the aisle and reinvigorated our support for this noble cause.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/reps-watson-coleman-pallone-kim-applaud-indefinite-extension-of-clawbacks-in-federal-spending-bill", "Reps. Watson Coleman, Pallone, Kim Applaud Indefinite Extension of Clawbacks in Federal Spending Bill", "2022-12-21", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Bonnie Watson Coleman", "W000822", "watsoncoleman.house.gov", "watsoncoleman", "https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Representatives Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06), and Andy Kim (NJ-03) today applauded an indefinite extension of recoupment efforts for debt owed to the federal government in relation to Superstorm Sandy that has been included in the Omnibus Fiscal Year 2023 package. These recoupment efforts known as \u201cclawbacks\u201d have blindsided homeowners because many New Jersey residents applied for loans and benefits offered by various federal programs at the recommendation of the government. The reprieve provides relief for approximately 1,700 households in New Jersey that owe millions of dollars.\n\n\u201cNew Jersey families were decimated by Superstorm Sandy and are still on the hook for millions of dollars in federal clawbacks through no fault of their own. An indefinite extension in recoupment of these funds will help hundreds of New Jersey families. My colleagues and I will continue fighting for total forgiveness so residents can have the peace of mind they deserve,\u201d said Congressman Pallone.\n\nThe indefinite extension will provide relief for families currently required to pay back disaster relief funds they received after Superstorm Sandy. Many homeowners who received relief funds have been required to repay some or all the funds, creating a financial burden.\n\n\u201cAmerica came together after Superstorm Sandy to help New Jerseyans through a very dark period,\u201d said Congresswoman Watson Coleman. \u201cNow those families can finally put this decade long nightmare behind them. The burden of having to pay back repair money that was erroneously given to them through no fault of their own is finally being lifted. I\u2019m grateful to my colleagues, Congressmen Frank Pallone and Andy Kim for their tireless work to see this chapter finally closed.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-introduces-legislation-to-expand-vas-ssvf-program-to-national-guardsmen-and-reservists", "Booker Introduces Legislation to Expand VA\u2019s SSVF Program to National Guardsmen and Reservists", "2022-12-21", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. -- Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker introduced theSupportive Services for National Guard and Reserve Component Veterans and Families Act, legislation that would expand the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) program to include former members of the National Guard and Reserves who have retired or separated from service after having served a term of enlistment.\n\nEstablished in 2011, the SSVF program promotes housing stability among very low-income veteran families who reside in or are transitioning to permanent housing. It has helped decrease veteran homelessness by 50% and assisted 850,000 veterans and their families members by permanently housing, rapidly rehousing, or preventing them from becoming homeless. However, under the program\u2019s current guidelines, many former members of the National Guard and Reserve Component, who were not activated for federal active duty military service while serving, are ineligible for the program.\n\n\u201cDespite the fact that members of the National Guard and Reserves take the same oath that members of our military do, that is to support and defend the Constitution of these United States, many are excluded from critical federal benefits including the SSVF program\u201d said Sen. Booker. \u201cBy all measures, this program has been a tremendous success, providing low-income veterans and their families critical housing assistance during their times of need and reducing homelessness rates by 50%. This legislation expands the program and ensures that veterans of the National Guard and Reserves can take advantage of its benefits, making it easier for more veterans who have served our country to access the care and resources they deserve.\u201d\n\nIn addition to expanding eligibility of the SSVF program, the legislation would also require the Secretary of Defense to submit an annual report to Congress detailing food and housing insecurity experienced by current reserve component service members, across all seven components of the Reserves and National Guard.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-menendez-applaud-nominations-of-michael-farbiarz-and-judge-robert-kirsch", "Booker, Menendez Applaud Nominations of Michael Farbiarz and Judge Robert Kirsch", "2022-12-21", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senators Cory Booker, a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and Bob Menendez (both D-N.J.) today applauded President Biden\u2019s nomination of Michael E. Farbiarz and Judge Robert Kirsch to the United States District Court of New Jersey. Their nominations were announced by the White House this morning as part of a group of six judicial nominees.\n\n\u201cMichael E. Farbiarz and Judge Robert Kirsch are highly qualified nominees who bring a strong commitment to justice, fairness, and the law to the federal bench,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cThey have both had distinguished legal careers and years of dedication to public service. I am confident in their ability to administer fair and impartial justice to the people of New Jersey and our country. I want to thank President Biden for nominating them, and I look forward to their hearing before the Judiciary Committee and their confirmations by the Senate.\n\n\u201cPresident Biden has nominated two exceptional and uniquely qualified individuals to serve on the U.S. District Court in Judge Robert Kirsch and Michael E. Farbiarz. Their experience, dedication to justice, and strong values are certain to serve the people of New Jersey well,\u201d said Senator Menendez. \u201cFor the past two years, we have been working diligently to fill the many vacancies on New Jersey\u2019s District Courts and today\u2019s nominations mean that the people of New Jersey can have confidence knowing that their judiciary is not only complete, but reflective of the diversity and values of our residents.\u201d\n\nMichael E. Farbiarz has served as the General Counsel of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey since 2016. From 2014 to 2016, Mr. Farbiarz was a Senior Fellow at New York University School of Law. Mr. Farbiarz served as an Assistant U.S. Attorney in the U.S. Attorney\u2019s Office for the Southern District of New York from 2004 to 2014, including as Co-Chief of the Terrorism and International Narcotics Unit from 2010 to 2014. Mr. Farbiarz was an associate at Davis Polk & Wardwell in New York from 2001 to 2004. He served as a law clerk for Judge Jos\u00e9 A. Cabranes on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit from 2000 to 2001 and for Chief Judge Michael B. Mukasey on the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York from 1999 to 2000. Mr. Farbiarz received his J.D. from Yale Law School in 1999 and his A.B. from Harvard University in 1995.\n\nRobert Kirsch has served as a judge on the New Jersey Superior Court for Union County since 2010. Previously, Judge Kirsch was an Assistant U.S. Attorney in the U.S. Attorney\u2019s Office for the District of New Jersey from 1997 to 2010 and served as a trial attorney in the Civil Division of the U.S. Department of Justice in Washington, D.C from 1993 to 1997. Judge Kirsch entered the Department of Justice through the Attorney General\u2019s Honors Program in 1993. He served as a law clerk for Judge William Zloch on the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida from 1991 to 1993. Judge Kirsch received his J.D. from Fordham University School of Law in 1991 and his B.A. from Emory University in 1988.\n\nIn May, Judge Evelyn Padin was confirmed by the Senate to serve on New Jersey\u2019s District Court. Before Padin\u2019s confirmation, the Senate confirmed Georgette Castner on March 31st and Christine P. O\u2019Hearn on March 1st. Last year, the Senate confirmed the appointments of Judges Zahid Quraishi, Julien X. Neals and Karen M. Williams to serve on New Jersey\u2019s District Court. Prior to these judicial appointments, New Jersey had six district court vacancies and was declared a \u201cjudicial emergency.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=CE4C0649-01F5-41B1-8816-C35512A2F227", "Rep. Norcross Applauds Funding for National Labor Relations Board in Omnibus Appropriations Package", "2022-12-20", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Donald Norcross", "N000188", "norcross.house.gov", "norcross", "https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases", "page_html", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 Today, Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01), co-founder of the Congressional Labor Caucus, released the following statement following the inclusion of increased funding for the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) in the proposed Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023, a bipartisan funding package of 12 appropriations bills and supplemental funding.\n\n\u201cThe increase in NLRB funding is a sigh of relief for millions of America\u2019s workers,\u201d said Congressman Norcross. \u201cFor months, I\u2019ve spoken out about the dire funding levels at the NLRB and how the agency plays a vital and independent role in ensuring fairness for both the employees and employer. If the NLRB doesn\u2019t have the money to operate, their staff gets furloughed, and workers and employers are put at risk. We still have a long way to go to restore this agency to its proper place, but this funding can\u2019t come soon enough. I want to thank House Appropriations Committee Chair Rosa DeLauro and Senate appropriators for coming together to create a federal budget that reflects our nation\u2019s values, and I remain committed to leveling the playing field by holding bad actors accountable for violating our labor laws.\u201d\n\nAs co-founder of Labor Caucus and Congress\u2019s only union electrician, Congressman Norcross has fought tirelessly to ensure the NLRB is funded. In April 2022, Norcross led 148 of his colleagues in pushing for adequate funding for the National Labor Relations Board. He then escalated this request in November 2022.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-03-30T11:08:25Z"], ["https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-announces-start-beach-replenishment-project-elberon", "Pallone Announces Start of Beach Replenishment Project in Elberon", "2022-12-20", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone, Jr.", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", "pallone", "https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Long Branch, NJ \u2013 Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) announced that the Army Corps of Engineers will begin beach replenishment in Elberon around January 1. The Corps will place 1.2 million cubic yards of sand starting at the southern end of Elberon at Lincoln Avenue in the next few weeks and work north to Takanassee Lake at North Lake Drive. The Elberon project is expected to be completed no later than March 1. The federal funding comes from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, which Pallone pushed for last year.\n\nDepending on the time it takes to complete the Elberon project, the Army Corps may also exercise an option to place 300,000 cubic yards of sand from Takanassee Lake north to Cedar Avenue in the West End section of Long Branch. There is also an additional option in Monmouth Beach that includes 1 million cubic yards from Central Road south to Valentine Street.\n\n\"Beach replenishment is critical to our beaches and communities along the Jersey Shore,\" Pallone said. \"Coastal restoration projects like beach replenishment ensure that our beaches and infrastructure remain resilient after bad weather events. I would like to thank the Army Corps of Engineers for their continued dedication to this important project in our state. Beach replenishment will make sure our beautiful beaches will remain safe and enjoyable for residents and tourists for years to come.\"\n\n\"By replenishing New Jersey's beaches, we better protect our communities from coastal erosion while improving our neighbors' and visitors' experience of the Jersey Shore,\" said Shawn M. LaTourette, State Commissioner of Environmental Protection. \"Critical beach renourishment projects are only possible with the help of champions like Congressman Pallone, who has procured the federal resources to support this project, and our partners in project implementation, including the Army Corps of Engineers and municipalities like Long Branch. The Murphy Administration is grateful for your partnership and dedication to shore protection.\"\n\n\"The Army Corps of Engineers, New York District is committed to ensuring all coastal communities are better protected from storms. With the start of beach replenishment work here in Elberon, we are honoring that commitment as well as the many other commitments we have fulfilled since Hurricane Sandy devastated the New Jersey and New York coastlines,\" said Colonel Matthew Luzzatto, Commander, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, New York District. \"The Corps will steadfastly continue to solve our Nation's toughest engineering challenges while reducing coastal storm risk for the taxpayers of this country. I would like to thank all of our partners at the federal, state, and local levels for their outstanding support.\"\n\nPallone has been a longtime advocate for beach replenishment along the Jersey Shore. Following Superstorm Sandy, Congressman Pallone requested the Federal Emergency Management Agency allocate emergency funding to address immediate needs of impacted homeowners and businesses as well as repair breached dunes and damaged beaches to protect New Jersey's coastal areas from future flooding. As a result, most of the beaches from Sea Bright to Manasquan were filled, which was the largest beach replenishment project ever undertaken by the Army Corps.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-watson-coleman-kim-applaud-indefinite-extension-clawbacks-federal", "Pallone, Watson Coleman, Kim Applaud Indefinite Extension of Clawbacks in Federal Spending Bill", "2022-12-20", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone, Jr.", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", "pallone", "https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC - Representatives Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06), Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), and Andy Kim (NJ-03) today applauded an indefinite extension of recoupment efforts for debt owed to the federal government in relation to Superstorm Sandy that has been included in the Omnibus Fiscal Year 2023 package. These recoupment efforts known as \"clawbacks\" have blindsided homeowners because many New Jersey residents applied for loans and benefits offered by various federal programs at the recommendation of the government. The reprieve provides relief for approximately 1,700 households in New Jersey that owe millions of dollars.\n\n\"New Jersey families were decimated by Superstorm Sandy and are still on the hook for millions of dollars in federal clawbacks through no fault of their own. An indefinite extension in recoupment of these funds will help hundreds of New Jersey families. My colleagues and I will continue fighting for total forgiveness so residents can have the peace of mind they deserve,\" said Congressman Pallone.\n\nThe indefinite extension will provide relief for families currently required to pay back disaster relief funds they received after Superstorm Sandy. Many homeowners who received relief funds have been required to repay some or all the funds, creating a financial burden.\n\n\"America came together after Superstorm Sandy to help New Jerseyans through a very dark period,\" said Congresswoman Watson Coleman. \"Now those families can finally put this decade long nightmare behind them. The burden of having to pay back repair money that was erroneously given to them through no fault of their own is finally being lifted. I'm grateful to my colleagues, Congressmen Frank Pallone and Andy Kim for their tireless work to see this chapter finally closed.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/watson-coleman-statement-on-executive-summary-of-the-final-report-by-the-select-committee-to-investigate-january-6th", "Watson Coleman Statement on Executive Summary of the Final Report by the Select Committee to Investigate January 6th", "2022-12-19", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Bonnie Watson Coleman", "W000822", "watsoncoleman.house.gov", "watsoncoleman", "https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) issued this statement after the Select Committee to Investigate the January 6th Attack released the executive summary to its final report and made referrals to the Justice Department:\n\n\u201cI\u2019m grateful for the thorough, transparent, and courageous work of the bipartisan Select Committee to Investigate the January 6th Attack. Under the leadership of Chair Bennie Thompson and Vice Chair Liz Cheney, the committee pursued the truth of the events leading up to the insurrection and attempted coup against the will of the American people.\n\n\u201cJanuary 6, 2021 was a dark day for our democracy. The Committee followed the facts leading to today\u2019s distressing but necessary referrals. Their work, along with the ongoing work of the Justice Department, will help to ensure that this never happens again.\n\n\u201cIn the United States, no one is above the law. Accountability is necessary to uphold the rule of law and ensure future peaceful transfers of power.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-leads-colleagues-in-urging-dhs-ice-and-cbp-to-review-inhumane-treatment-of-black-migrants", "Booker Leads Colleagues in Urging DHS, ICE, and CBP to Review Inhumane Treatment of Black Migrants", "2022-12-19", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.) urged the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) to conduct a review of incidents of mistreatment of Black migrants within the U.S. immigration system, especially incidents related to the shackling of people who are pregnant and post-partum.\n\n\u201cBlack migrants suffer from disparate treatment, discrimination, and racism at every phase of the immigration system - including when they are being deported to their country of origin, most times without being given the chance to seek asylum,\u201d wrote Senator Booker in a letter to DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, Acting ICE Director Tae Johnson, and Acting CBP Commissioner Troy Miller. \u201cA September 2022 Amnesty International Report found that Haitians removed under Title 42 were detained in ways that \u201camount to ill-treatment and in some cases torture, either to coerce them to give up their claims or to deter other asylum seekers.\u201d One psychologist estimated that two-thirds of families removed to Haiti were shackled or chained at some point during the removal process. Multiple Haitian migrants interviewed for the report said they were shackled either while they were pregnant or breastfeeding. One woman who was nine months pregnant was shackled by CBP agents and carried onto a plane to be removed. The treatment described in these reports is disturbing, horrific, and un-American.\u201d\n\nSenator Booker also pointed out these inhumane treatments of migrants by CBP and ICE personnel are contrary to the agencies\u2019 guidelines.\n\n\u201cIt also appears to conflict with CBP and ICE\u2019s own guidelines on shackling and the use of chains during deportation. CBP\u2019s standards require that restraints during detention are used \u201cin a manner that is safe, secure, humane, and professional.\u201d Additionally, restraints cannot be used \u201cin a punitive manner or in a manner than causes detainees undue pain.\u201d According to ICE\u2019s National Detainee Handbook, officers may only use force \u201cafter all reasonable efforts to otherwise resolve a situation have failed\u201d and \u201cphysical force or restraining devices will not be used as punishment. International law is clear that countries may not shackle or handcuff pregnant people or people immediately after childbirth\u2026 We continue to believe that a holistic review of the disparate treatment of Black migrants throughout our immigration system is both necessary and urgent,\u201d continued Senator Booker.\n\nSenator Booker and his colleagues also requested DHS, ICE, and CBP clarify their existing practices regarding shackling of migrants, and particularly pregnant migrants, in detention.\n\nThe letter is cosigned by: Senators Ed Markey (D-MA), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Ron Wyden (D-OR), Bob Menendez (D-N.J.), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Ben Cardin (D-MD), and Alex Padilla (D-CA).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-wicker-applaud-signing-of-precip-act-into-law", "Booker, Wicker, Applaud Signing of PRECIP Act into Law", "2022-12-19", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Roger Wicker (R-MS) applaud the signing of the Providing Research and Estimates of Changes in Precipitation Act, or PRECIP Act, into law. This legislation will update out-of-date precipitation data in the U.S. by providing the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) with funding and guidance to conduct future research. The PRECIP Act will direct NOAA to study ongoing changes in precipitation that will help communities better prepare for extreme weather and flooding events and to work with the National Academies to complete a consensus study on the best practices for estimating precipitation. Companion legislation was introduced in the House by Rep. Mikie Sherrill (D-NJ-11).\n\n\u201cWe must take every necessary step to protect our communities from the increasing frequency of natural disasters caused by climate change -- like historic rainfall and flooding throughout the country,\u201dsaid Senator Booker. \u201cI am proud that this bipartisan legislation has been signed into law and will provide NOAA with vital funding to consult with partner organizations and conduct studies to modernize and improve our nation\u2019s precipitation data. This will be essential as we continue to face the realities of climate change and extreme weather across the country.\u201d\n\n\u201cFlooding regularly puts American lives and property at risk, resulting in billions of dollars in economic losses each year,\u201d said Sen. Wicker. \u201cOne threat from flooding is dam failure, and in Mississippi there are hundreds of state-regulated dams with a high hazard potential. Forty-two of these dams have failed and nine others have been drained. With this important legislation signed into law, dam control managers can get the data they need to improve dam safety and protect Americans.\u201d\n\nSpecifically, the PRECIP Act requires NOAA to:\n\nUpdate precipitation frequency estimates for the United States. NOAA must include specified information in the updates and must make publicly available certain precipitation frequency estimate studies.\n\nSeek to enter an agreement with the National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine to conduct a study on the state of practice and research needs for precipitation estimation, including probable maximum precipitation estimation.\n\nConsult with relevant partners on the development of a plan to update probable maximum precipitation estimates.\n\nDevelop guidance regarding probable maximum precipitation estimates that (1) provides best practices for federal and state regulatory agencies, private meteorological consultants, and other users that perform probable maximum precipitation studies; (2) considers the recommendations provided in the National Academies study; (3) facilitates review of probable maximum precipitation studies by regulatory agencies; and (4) provides confidence in regional and site-specific probable maximum precipitation estimates.\n\nThe PRECIP Act is supported by: Pew Charitable Trusts, Jacobs, American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE), Association of State Dam Safety Officials (ASDSO), Geospatial Equipment & Technology Institute (GETI), National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS), US Geospatial Executives Organization (U.S. GEO), Waterfront Alliance, Association of State Floodplain Managers (ASFPM), Union of Concerned Scientists, Iowa Flood Center, American Public Works Association (APWA).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-colleagues-demand-end-to-child-labor-at-meatpacking-facilities", "Booker, Colleagues Demand End to Child Labor at Meatpacking Facilities", "2022-12-16", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.) led colleagues to demand meatpacking companies take immediate steps to put an end to the use of child labor at their facilities and pressed Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) on their response to the use of child labor in meatpacking facilities.\n\n\u201cAccording to court documents, the Department of (DOL) found children between 13 and 17 years old working overnight shifts at your facilities and leaving their shifts to attend school in the morning, despite sleep deprivation,\u201d wrote Senator Booker in a letter to meatpacking companies. \u201cThe Wage and Hour Division of the DOL (WHD) conducted surveillance, subpoenaed school records, and interviewed confidential sources about minors working overnight shifts to clean the meat processing facility. WHD found that minor children were illegally recruited and employed \u2013 including a 13-year-old who suffered a serious chemical burn from chemical cleaners while employed by PSSI. DOL also found that many of the children who were illegally employed fell asleep in class and missed class as a result of suffering injuries from chemical burns at the facility, while employed by PSSI, a contractor each of your facilities utilizes.\n\n\u201cTaking advantage of children and placing them in dangerous workplace settings overnight must end. Your companies have outsourced dangerous jobs in your plants, but that does not mean you do not have a responsibility to assure that workers in your plants are 18 or older and provided safe conditions,\u201d continued Senator Booker.\n\nSenator Booker requested meatpacking facilities answer the following questions:\n\nWhat practices does your company have in place to ensure compliance with child labor laws which prohibit minors under the age of 18 from working in your plants? How will you monitor the employment and safety practices of any contractors you hire in the plant to sanitize your facilities during the third shift?\n\nFollowing the recent investigation by DOL, what steps has your company taken to address concerns regarding widespread noncompliance with federal labor law?\n\nWhen did you begin to contract with PSSI? Why did you shift this work from full- time staff to contracted workers? What steps are you taking to ensure your contractors comply with federal labor laws?\n\nWe have learned that the JBS plant in Worthington, Minnesota terminated its contract with PSSI on December 14. Do you have plans to terminate your contract with PSSI? Will you bring the work of cleaning and sanitizing plants in-house? If not, how will you ensure future contractors are not committing similar labor violations?\n\nHow will you assure that all workers in your plant are provided safe conditions and how will your company improve and enhance workplace safety measures to prevent chemical burns and other serious and deadly injuries?\n\nIn a letter to OSHA, Senator Booker wrote, \u201cOSHA must hold both the host company and PSSI responsible for these unsafe conditions as it has done in past investigations of unsafe work conditions among sanitation workers in meat and poultry plants. As your agency knows, federal labor laws prohibit any company from hiring anyone under 18 to work in almost any job, including sanitation, in a meat and poultry plant. Meatpacking is considered one of the most hazardous jobs and for decades WHD has prohibited any worker under 18 from working in almost every job in the plant\u2026These findings highlight why your agency must prioritize rigorous enforcement in meat and poultry plants and their contractors.\u201d\n\nSenator Booker requested OSHA answer the following questions:\n\nHas OSHA reviewed the over seven years of data on amputations and severe injuries reported to the agency and determined how many meat and poultry companies, as well as their contactors, are in the top 75 companies reporting these horrible injuries?\n\nWhen does OSHA plan to conduct a full and thorough investigation into the safety and health practices of PSSI and their host employers? When will the agency announced a special emphasis investigation into meat and poultry plants, including the third sanitation shift?\n\nWhat steps is DOL taking to ensure that local and regional area offices are taking referrals from WHD investigators that discover injured children in the industry?\n\nAre there any active training programs for DOL investigators across various departments to investigators in the hazards and violations of all laws enforced under DOL, with the goal referrals can be made effectively across the agency?\n\nGiven the findings of WHD and the dangers in these plants, will OSHA adopt a policy of opening inspections following reports of amputations and severe injuries in meat and poultry plants, whether by the host company or by a contactor?\n\nDoes OSHA plan to review how consolidation in the meatpacking industry contributed to decreased worker protections, as we saw during the COVID-19 pandemic and this ongoing child labor crisis?\n\nBoth letters are cosigned by: Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Dianne Feinstein (D-CA), and Bernie Sanders (I-VT)\n\nThe letter to OSHA can be found here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-statement-on-justice-department-policy-change-on-cocaine-sentencing-disparities", "Booker Statement on Justice Department Policy Change on Cocaine Sentencing Disparities", "2022-12-16", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee and lead sponsor of the EQUAL Act that would eliminate the federal crack-powder cocaine sentencing disparity, issued the following statement:\n\n\u201cIt is fundamentally unjust that, for decades, baseless and unscientific sentencing disparities between crack and powder cocaine have contributed to the explosion of mass incarceration in the United States. Today\u2019s announcement recognizes this injustice and takes steps to finally strike parity between powder and crack cocaine sentences when there is no pharmacological differences in the substances.\n\n\u201cBut this is not a permanent answer and won\u2019t help those already serving an unjust sentence. I have worked tirelessly to secure a filibuster-proof majority in the Senate for the EQUAL Act and build a bipartisan coalition including 11 Republican senators who support a 1:1 sentencing ratio. We must pass the EQUAL Act now to write this policy change into law, following the lead of 41 states that have already done so.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-watson-coleman-congressional-black-caucus-members-urge-senate-leadership-to-include-crown-act-in-end-of-year-legislation", "Rep. Watson Coleman, Congressional Black Caucus Members Urge Senate Leadership to Include CROWN Act in End-of-Year Legislation", "2022-12-15", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Bonnie Watson Coleman", "W000822", "watsoncoleman.house.gov", "watsoncoleman", "https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. (December 15, 2022) \u2014 Today, Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) led a group of her colleagues in the Congressional Black Caucus in a letter calling for Senate leadership to include the Congresswoman\u2019s CROWN Act in its end-of-year omnibus funding legislation.\n\nThe CROWN Act would prohibit discrimination based on a person's hair texture or hairstyle if that style or texture is commonly associated with a particular race or national origin. Specifically, the bill prohibits this type of discrimination against those participating in federally assisted programs, housing programs, public accommodations, and employment. On Wednesday, Senate Republicans, led by Senator Rand Paul (R-KY), blocked the bill\u2019s passage.\n\nThe letter reads in part:\n\nThis is not \u201cjust a hair\u201d issue, this is a Civil Rights issue. Hair-based discrimination remains a source of racial injustice with serious economic consequences for Black people. Yet, current interpretations of Civil Rights legislation often limit anti-discrimination protections to skin color, but not hair. This continues to leave many Black people vulnerable to discriminatory practices.\n\nMany Black people face discrimination at school, in the workplace, and elsewhere because the way their hair naturally grows out of their heads is deemed \u201cunacceptable\u201d or \u201cunprofessional.\u201d Specifically, Black women are 1.5 times more likely than white women to be sent home from work because of their hair.\n\nThe letter continues:\n\nThe CROWN Act bridges the gap in current anti-discrimination legislation. This bill would prohibit discrimination based on an individual\u2019s style or texture of hair by including an individual\u2019s style of hair that is tightly coiled or tightly-curled, locs, cornrows, twists, braids, Bantu knots, Afros and any other style of hair commonly associated with a race or national origin in the definition of racial discrimination.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-menendez-sherrill-statement-on-final-passage-of-the-daniel-anderl-judicial-security-and-privacy-act", "Booker, Menendez, Sherrill Statement on Final Passage of the Daniel Anderl Judicial Security and Privacy Act", "2022-12-15", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senators Cory Booker, Bob Menendez (both D-N.J) and U.S. Representative Mikie Sherrill (D-N.J.-11) today released the following joint statement after the Senate passed the Daniel Anderl Judicial Security and Privacy Act. The bill is now headed to the President\u2019s desk for its signature into law:\n\n\u201cOn July 19, 2020, an aggrieved former litigant targeted New Jersey\u2019s U.S. District Court Judge Esther Salas after finding her home address online \u2014 injuring her husband Mark Anderl and killing their beloved son Daniel. In the days that followed, we made a personal vow to Judge Salas. We swore to act swiftly, and to never stop fighting until we passed legislation that paid tribute to Daniel\u2019s legacy by protecting judges and their families from future threats. With today\u2019s Senate passage of the Daniel Anderl Judicial Security and Privacy Act, we kept our promise \u2014 taking a decisive step towards protecting the judges who serve on the federal bench.\n\n\u201cThis bill strengthens our democracy and ensures that federal judges can perform their solemn duty of administering equal justice under the law without fear of retaliation. We accomplish this goal by striking the balance between safeguarding the personal safety of judges and preserving transparency and accountability in the judiciary. We thank our bipartisan group of colleagues who joined us in honoring Daniel Anderl\u2019s life, and we remain forever indebted to Judge Salas and her husband who turned their grief into purpose. Their strength and commitment to this bill were pivotal in protecting federal judges and their families from harm.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-statement-on-fy-2023-national-defense-authorization-act", "Booker Statement on FY 2023 National Defense Authorization Act", "2022-12-15", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "Washington, DC -- Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) issued the following statement:\n\n\u201cI support and celebrate many critically important elements of this legislation, especially those honoring our service members by giving them a well-deserved pay raise, helping veterans suffering from exposure to toxic burn pits, and better supporting military families. I also applaud provisions increasing the energy resilience of the Department of Defense and providing security assistance to Ukraine.\n\n\u201cI believe there is a better way to support our service members and protect America\u2019s national security than this bloated bill, which authorizes $45 billion more spending than even the Pentagon requested for this fiscal year. I continue to be concerned by the lack of complete and reliable information related to the Department\u2019s audit remediation efforts and levels of waste, fraud, and financial mismanagement that still exists. . We need more robust oversight, transparency, and accountability, starting with a complete and comprehensive audit of the Pentagon. Furthermore, I cannot ignore the stark discrepancy between continuing the trend of increasing military funding and the lack of corresponding investments in diplomacy abroad and schools, health care, and housing here at home.\n\n\u201cCongress must deliver a more responsible and comprehensive defense policy that protects America\u2019s interests against the threats of the 21st Century.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-waters-send-letter-to-government-accountability-office-urging-updated-study-on-disparities-in-asset-management", "Booker, Waters Send Letter to Government Accountability Office Urging Updated Study on Disparities in Asset Management", "2022-12-15", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) and U.S. Representative Maxine Waters (D-CA), Chairwoman of the House Financial Services Committee, sent a letter to the United States Government Accountability Office (GAO) highlighting the severe lack of progress our nation\u2019s federally managed pension funds have made in boosting representation of diverse asset management firms over the years. In the letter Chairwoman Waters and Senator Booker urge the agency to investigate these disparities by conducting a comprehensive study that focuses on new metrics that assesses the efforts fund investors, such as federal pension funds, have taken to engage diverse asset managers.\n\nThe letter comes after the publication of a comprehensive Financial Services Committee report entitled, \u201cDiversity and Inclusion: Holding America\u2019s Largest Investment Firms Accountable\u201d and two Diversity and Inclusion subcommittee hearings exploring large investment firms and asset managers, respectively.\n\n\u201cDiversity within the asset management industry is not only a matter of fairness for professionals in the financial services sector, but it has wide-ranging impacts on the millions of Americans whose $115 trillion are under management. It has long been documented that minority- and women-owned (MWO) asset management firms perform as well as their peers, yet nearly 99% of assets continue to be managed by White, male-led firms,\u201d said Senator Booker and Chairwoman Waters. \u201cDespite congressional and administrative efforts to address the disparities that limit opportunities for MWO asset managers, there has been little to no progress made over the last decade.\u201d\n\nCo-signers for this letter include: Representatives Alma Adams (D-NC), Joyce Beatty (D-OH), Al Green (TX), Al Lawson (D-FL), Juan Vargas (D-CA), Nikema Williams (D-GA) and Senators Timothy Kaine (D-VA), Ben Ray Luj\u00e1n (D-NM), Robert Menendez (D-NJ), Patty Murray (D-WA) and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-republicans-block-passage-of-crown-act", "Senate Republicans Block Passage of CROWN Act", "2022-12-14", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Bonnie Watson Coleman", "W000822", "watsoncoleman.house.gov", "watsoncoleman", "https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. (December 14, 2022) \u2014 Today, Senate Republicans blocked passage of the CROWN Act, which passed the House earlier this year. The CROWN Act bans hair discrimination, including discrimination against natural Black hair. Specifically, the bill prohibits this type of discrimination against those participating in federally assisted programs, housing programs, public accommodations, and employment. Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) reintroduced the CROWN Act in 2021.\n\nDespite bipartisan, bicameral support, the CROWN Act did not garner support from enough Republican Senators to override a filibuster. Following the bill\u2019s failure to pass the Senate, Congresswoman Watson Coleman issued this statement:\n\n\u201cThe Senate continues to stand in the way of progress for our country. Republicans\u2019 obstruction of the CROWN Act is part of a long tradition of weaponizing the filibuster to block civil rights legislation.\n\n\u201cWhen the CROWN Act was first introduced during the 116th Congress, it passed the House by voice vote without objection. When I reintroduced it last year, it passed the House once again, despite the Republican efforts to delay it. In both instances, Republican Senators stood in the way of the bill\u2019s passage.\n\n\u201cIt saddens and angers me that, in the year 2022, something as simple as opposing racial discrimination has become controversial. My colleagues across the aisle were presented with an opportunity to stand united against discrimination. They chose instead to give in to the climate of division and hyper-partisanship.\n\n\u201cOur fight is far from over. Today, I am disappointed, but not defeated. I remain steadfast in my commitment to protecting all Americans\u2019 right to exist as their authentic selves.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/armenia-caucus-co-chairs-issue-statement-escalation-azerbaijani-humanitarian", "Armenia Caucus Co-Chairs Issue Statement on Escalation of Azerbaijani Humanitarian Abuses in Artsakh", "2022-12-13", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone, Jr.", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", "pallone", "https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 Congressional Caucus on Armenian Issues Co-Chairs Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06), Gus M. Bilirakis (FL-12), Jackie Speier (CA-14), David G. Valadao (CA-21), and Adam B. Schiff (CA-28) issued the following statement after troubling reports of Azerbaijanis blocking the sole road connecting the people of Artsakh to Armenia and posing huge risks to vulnerable populations:\n\n\"We condemn the aggressive actions taken by Azerbaijan in Nagorno Karabakh. It is disturbing that the only time the people of Azerbaijan are allowed to freely protest is when it threatens the lives of Armenians. Their blockade of the Lachin Corridor appears coordinated and intended to shut off the only remaining supply route for much of Artsakh's food, medical supplies and transport, and other essential goods, not to mention further restrict the people of Artsakh's freedom of movement. Additional reports allege that Azerbaijan has also shut off one of the major sources of natural gas for civilians in the territory, potentially leaving tens of thousands without heating as temperatures plummet, much like it did earlier this year in March.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-elected-ranking-member-energy-and-commerce-committee-118th-congress", "Pallone Elected Ranking Member of Energy and Commerce Committee for 118th Congress", "2022-12-13", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone, Jr.", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", "pallone", "https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ) today issued the following statement after the House Democratic Caucus unanimously elected him Ranking Member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee for the 118th Congress:\n\n\"I am honored to be elected Ranking Member of the Energy and Commerce Committee. Over the last two years, we accomplished a tremendous amount for the American people, and I am grateful to my Democratic colleagues for once again entrusting me to lead this Committee in the upcoming Congress.\n\n\"I look forward to continuing to work closely with all my colleagues to build on our efforts to lower costs for American families, bolster our economy, combat the climate crisis, and protect consumers. I am also committed to ensuring that the legislative achievements of the past two years are being implemented by the Administration as we intended and will aggressively oppose any Republican efforts to undermine them in any way.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-announces-winners-2022-congressional-app-challenge", "Pallone Announces Winners of 2022 Congressional App Challenge", "2022-12-10", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone, Jr.", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", "pallone", "https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "New Brunswick, NJ \u2013 Today, Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) announced the winners of the 2022 Congressional App Challenge for high school and middle school students in New Jersey's Sixth Congressional District. Ashvin Trehan, Siddharth Paul, and Jared Wyetzner from Metuchen High School won this year's competition. Their app, Myndful, is an artificial intelligence mental health resource navigator that helps adolescents access and understand mental health resources.\n\n\"The Congressional App Challenge is an important platform for students to showcase their creativity and technical skills,\" said Pallone. \"I congratulate Ashvin, Siddharth, and Jared for their winning app and applaud all the participants for their creative ideas. The COVID-19 pandemic showed just how critical mental health support is. This app will help connect students with the assistance they need. I will continue to support investments in STEM education in New Jersey to make sure the United States remains at the forefront of innovation and research. I want to thank the experts who helped assess each app and provide feedback to the students.\"\n\nPranav Sitaraman won second place with his app, Spruce It Up!, and Ishaan Gupte won third place with his app, NRgize. Spruce It Up! is a service-based app that helps communities report areas that need cleaning and then connects them with volunteers who can sign up to come and help. NRgize uses Apple Maps to help electric vehicle owners locate charging stations during their trip. The app can be paired with traditional voice service devices such as Alexa.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-stabenow-warnock-smith-introduce-legislation-eliminating-tax-liability-for-ira-assistance-for-distressed-farmers", "Booker, Stabenow, Warnock, Smith Introduce Legislation Eliminating Tax Liability for IRA Assistance for Distressed Farmers", "2022-12-09", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Raphael Warnock (D-GA), and Tina Smith (D-MN), all members of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, introduced the Family Farmer and Rancher Tax Fairness Act, legislation that would remove the tax liability for distressed farmers for the assistance provided in Sections 22006 and 22007 of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). Currently, farm loan borrowers who are already at financial risk are facing tax liability on the IRA assistance.\n\n\u201cThe critical financial assistance we fought to include in the Inflation Reduction Act is a lifeline for distressed farmers around the country,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cBut now those same farmers are facing a burdensome tax liability. Congress needs to quickly cut these taxes to ensure that farmers who received assistance stay on the path back to financial stability.\u201d\n\n\u201cI fought to include relief for Georgia\u2019s distressed farmers in the Inflation Reduction Act so they can stay on their land and keep operating at full force to feed our country and support our local economies,\u201d said Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock. \u201cI\u2019m proud to join my colleagues to ensure that farmers in Georgia who received much-needed economic relief are not hit with an unexpected tax bill.\u201d\n\n\u201cOur farmers and agriculture sector are the backbone of Minnesota\u2019s diverse economy,\u201d said Senator Smith. \u201cAs a member of the Senate Agriculture Committee, I am always looking for ways to support underserved farmers in Minnesota including Black, Hmong, Latino and Native American farmers. This legislation would clarify that IRA investments for disadvantaged farmers are tax free, which will help level the playing field and ensure everyone has equal access to financial services and other critical federal programs.\u201d\n\nSection 22006 of the IRA authorizes payments to distressed farm loan borrowers, particularly those borrowers whose agricultural operations are at financial risk. Section 22007 of the IRA provides much-needed financial assistance to Black farmers and others who have suffered discrimination through USDA\u2019s farm lending programs. Distressed borrowers with qualifying USDA farm loans have already received nearly $800 million in assistance as part of the $3.1 billion for distressed farm loan borrowers provided through Section 22006, and these farmers are now facing the imminent threat of hundreds of millions of dollars of IRS tax liability if Congress does not act. The Family Farmer and Rancher Tax Fairness Act exempts these payments from federal income taxes.\n\nThe legislation is supported by the following groups: National Farmers Union, Farm Action Fund, Farm Aid, Federation of Southern Cooperatives, Intertribal Agriculture Council, National Family Farm Coalition, Pennsylvania Farmers Union, Rural Advancement Foundation International-USA, Rural Coalition, USDA Coalition of Minority Employees, Justice for Black Farmers Group, Black Belt Justice Center, Black Farmers of Chilton County, Black Farmers and Agriculturalists Association, Mississippi Minority Farmers Alliance, Reed-Wright Black Farmers Coalition, African American Agriculturalist Association, Brown Family Farm, Sustaining Environments Through Education and Economic Development, Inc. (SEED), Independent Black Farmers, African American Agriculture Association, Black Men in America, Cowtown Foundation, No Fear Coalition, Acorn8 and Coalition for Change, Inc.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=DFE69B02-0E98-418D-A6AE-AB0999A629FE", "Rep. Norcross Votes to Protect Marriage Equality for Same-Sex and Interracial Couples", "2022-12-08", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Donald Norcross", "N000188", "norcross.house.gov", "norcross", "https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases", "page_html", "Today, U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) delivered the following speech on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives before voting to pass the Respect for Marriage Act. The bill enshrines the right of same-sex and interracial couples to marry under federal law in states that might decline to recognize certain marriages should existing protections be rolled back. The Respect for Marriage Act now heads to President Biden\u2019s desk to be signed into law.\n\n\u201cThank you, Mr. Speaker.\n\n\u201cI rise today to speak on behalf of marriage equality.\n\n\u201cAlthough the bills we write and pass regularly affect millions of lives, rarely is the legislation we vote on so personal as the bill we pass today: the Respect for Marriage Act.\n\n\u201cMy daughter and her wife are two of the estimated 26 million Americans whose freedom to marry will be protected by this bill.\n\n\u201cTheir son \u2013 my one-year-old grandson \u2013 can now grow up without risk of his family being torn apart.\n\n\u201cLove is a precious thing, and now my daughters know that our nation respects their marriage.\n\n\u201cYou cannot legislate love. But you can give love the protection of our laws.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-03-30T11:08:25Z"], ["https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=FA251C2F-BA95-4A48-9C93-B75866BB1DD8", "Rep. Norcross Helps Pass Annual Defense Bill to Support Service Members and National Security", "2022-12-08", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Donald Norcross", "N000188", "norcross.house.gov", "norcross", "https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases", "page_html", "Today, U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01), chair of the Tactical Air and Land Forces (TAL) Subcommittee of the House Armed Services Committee (HASC), voted to pass the Senate amendment to H.R. 7776, known as James M. Inhofe National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for the Fiscal Year 2023 (FY23). The NDAA strengthens U.S. national security by investing in U.S. warfighters and the equipment they rely on, and the American workers who form the backbone of America\u2019s national security industrial base.\n\n\u201cToday, I voted to strengthen America\u2019s defense by supporting the hardworking servicemembers who serve and protect our nation,\u201d said Congressman Norcross. \u201cThe bill includes the critical funding for Humvee safety that I championed for months, helping to ensure that the vehicles used by our troops do not put them at undue risk of harm. It also includes provisions I wrote to prioritize access to mental health services for our men and women in uniform because I firmly believe we must take care of those to take care of us. Additionally, the bill contains investments in research and development efforts back in South Jersey that are critical to our national defense and regional economy. I thank my House colleagues for this bipartisan effort to defend our vital national interests. Safeguarding our national security will always be one of my top priorities in Congress.\u201d\n\nThe annual defense bill touches all aspects of the Department of Defense (DoD), from equipment modernization efforts that ensure the U.S. Armed Forces can meet future threats to wages for construction workers and teachers working on U.S. military bases.\n\nCongressman Norcross takes seriously his responsibility to ensure members of the U.S. military are supplied with the equipment and training they need to dominate the battlefield. His track record of standing up for the women and men in uniform includes a provision in the FY23 NDAA that addresses adequate mental health support services through TRICARE and a provision that supplies an additional $183 million to address safety issues in Humvees that had led to a recent string of deadly accidents.\n\nFY23 NDAA includes provisions secured by Rep. Norcross for South Jersey:\n\n$25 million for research and engineering projects enabling rapid entry and sustainment in the Arctic and other cold regions; high-performance polymer and coatings; and the survivability of turret gunners being conducted at Rowan University.\n\nOver $2.6 billion for the KC-46A Pegasus air tanker program, including 15 aircraft, which will benefit the refueling mission at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst.\n\nFunding for additional V-22 Ospreys, which will enhance national security while providing stability and predictability to many workers in New Jersey\u2019s 1st Congressional District who play a critical role in our national industrial base.\n\nDirecting the DoD to provide a status update on its efforts to reduce the risk posed by forever chemicals/PFAS to servicemembers and defense workers.\n\nImproved servicemember mental health by requiring the Government Accountability Office to examine the types of mental health benefits provided under TRICARE and identify any limits that are not also imposed on non-mental health services to promote parity of mental and physical health.\n\nSecuring significant investments in clean energy and energy efficiency at DoD, harnessing solar and electric technologies to ensure that our defense facilities and vehicle fleets are resilient to climate disasters and energy disruptions.\n\nWater Resources Development Act provisions, including:\n\nA study to better understand flooding risks and to help flood risk management in Camden and Gloucester counties, including Brooklawn, Bellmawr, Camden City, Gloucester City, Westville, Mt. Ephraim, and Runnemede.\n\n$119 million for the City of Camden\u2019s outdated combined wastewater and stormwater management infrastructure to reduce overflows and flooding.\n\n$20 million for the Lower Delaware River Basin, including projects for wastewater treatment and related facilities (such as sewer overflow infrastructure improvements and other stormwater management) in the South Jersey region neighboring the Delaware River Bay and nearby rivers and streams.\n\nThe House\u2019s version of FY23 NDAA also includes a range of key national security priorities for House Democrats:", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-03-30T11:08:25Z"], ["https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-watson-coleman-statement-on-brittney-griners-release", "Rep. Watson Coleman Statement on Brittney Griner's Release", "2022-12-08", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Bonnie Watson Coleman", "W000822", "watsoncoleman.house.gov", "watsoncoleman", "https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. (December 8, 2022) \u2014 Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) issued the following statement on the release of Brittney Griner:\n\n\u201cAlmost one year ago, Brittney Griner was wrongfully detained in Russia, confined under horrific conditions.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m overjoyed to learn of her release this morning and comforted to know she will be with her family for the holidays. While I am pleased to hear of her return, she never should have been detained in the first place.\n\n\u201cBrittney Griner was in Russia to supplement her income as a professional athlete. If there were equity and fairness between men\u2019s and women\u2019s basketball in our country, she never would have been in that situation. From the office to the basketball court, women deserve equal pay for equal work.\n\n\u201cThe day we are celebrating is a long-awaited one. I wish peace and health this holiday season for Brittney, her wife, and her family.\n\n\u201cAs we celebrate Brittney Griner\u2019s release, we must not forget that Paul Whelan remains wrongfully detained in Russia. My heart is with Paul and his family, and I continue to pray for his safe return.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-watson-coleman-votes-to-write-marriage-equality-into-federal-law", "Rep. Watson Coleman Votes to Write Marriage Equality Into Federal Law", "2022-12-08", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Bonnie Watson Coleman", "W000822", "watsoncoleman.house.gov", "watsoncoleman", "https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. (December 8, 2022) \u2014 Today, Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) voted to pass the Respect for Marriage Act, which federally protects same-sex and interracial couples\u2019 right to marry.\n\nIn addition to protecting marriage equality at the federal level, this legislation provides for additional state-level protections and repeals the discriminatory Defense of Marriage Act. The House initially passed the Respect for Marriage Act earlier this year, and the Senate amended and passed it in November. Following the House\u2019s vote today, the bill heads to President Biden\u2019s desk.\n\nCongresswoman Watson Coleman issued the following statement on the bill\u2019s passage:\n\n\u201cIt has been a long journey since I helped pass marriage equality legislation during my time in the New Jersey State Assembly. At the time, then-Governor Christie vetoed the bill.\n\n\u201cI am in awe of how far our nation has come in just ten short years. For the first time in our nation\u2019s history, Congress has passed legislation preserving and protecting the right to marry the person you love. Love is a human right, and today, we have made it clear that the United States will protect that right.\n\n\u201cAlthough the Supreme Court ruled same-sex marriage legal in 2015, the need for this legislation could not be more urgent. In the years since that decision, the Court has become an increasingly extreme conservative body. Since their decision to erase 50 years of progress and overturn Roe v. Wade, the Supreme Court and Republican elected officials have expressed openness to reversing the Court\u2019s ruling on same-sex marriage. The Respect for Marriage Act preemptively protects same-sex and interracial marriage, shielding them from right-wing threats.\n\n\u201cI was thrilled to vote for this bill in July and just as thrilled to vote for it again today. I look forward to seeing President Biden sign this historic civil rights legislation into law.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-chu-reintroduce-bicameral-diploma-act-to-support-community-schools", "Booker, Chu Reintroduce Bicameral Diploma Act to Support Community Schools", "2022-12-08", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.) and U.S. Representative Judy Chu (D-CA-27) have reintroduced the bicameral Developing Innovative Partnerships and Learning Opportunities that Motivate Achievement (DIPLOMA) Act, which would support schools in becoming community centers that offer a full suite of comprehensive services to meet students\u2019 holistic needs beyond the classroom, such as their housing, nutrition, safety, and physical and mental health care needs.\n\nIn the last four decades, the U.S. has plunged from first in the world in high school and college graduation rates to 21st and 14th respectively. A driving force behind this decline is increasing drop-out rates which are caused in part by students not always having their needs met by their school and community. Studies show that when these needs are met, students are more likely to succeed. The DIPLOMA ACT would provide federal support for partnerships between public schools and community organizations designed to address those holistic needs and improve the lives of students and their families.\n\n\u201cIn order for our children to succeed academically, we need to ensure they are in environments where they are fully supported by their communities,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cThis legislation will enable schools to provide vital support services, such as nutrition programs, health care, and counseling to students. By turning schools into full-service community hubs, we can empower students and better prepare them for academic success and life after graduation.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs a former teacher, I know that a good education is a proven pathway for future success,\u201d said Representative Chu. \u201cBut for too many students, difficulties outside the classroom\u2014such as hunger, problems at home, mental health issues, or other obstacles\u2014hold them back. Helping students to be as successful as possible means ensuring they have the services and support they need. Local universities, community non-profits, and more have so much to offer students, but often the resources are not there to bring them together. That\u2019s why I\u2019m proud to be reintroducing the DIPLOMA Act with Senator Booker to support community schools\u2014schools that partner with local organizations to become full-service community centers for students and families. This bill encourages these partnerships and provides the grant funding necessary to make them successful.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe are thrilled that Representative Chu and Senator Booker are reintroducing this important bill,\u201d said Eddie Koen, President of the Institute for Educational Leadership (IEL). \u201cThe DIPLOMA Act will provide states with the federal funding needed to help build strong state coalitions that are organized to implement and scale the Community Schools we know they want, and strengthen school-community partnerships around comprehensive, evidence-based goals for continuous improvement with respect to children and youth, particularly under-resourced children and youth. Since these funds go directly towards the desired outcomes of the Community School strategy, we are confident that this legislation will bring about more equitable practices and systems in more communities across the country. Another important update to this bill is the allowing states to use this funding for teacher recruitment and retention, which is key in an environment where Districts are reporting an all-time high rate of teacher turnover. At IEL, we know that in order to build resiliency in our education system, we need innovation - innovation born of research, strength-building, and robust public policy that is informed by the needs and interests of those most affected by policy decisions - youth, families, and communities. We believe this bill provides just that and are excited to see the continued expansion of Community Schools through this state-level support.\u201d\n\nThe DIPLOMA Act would provide federal grants to states to support community schools and develop a comprehensive child and youth strategy. States would award subgrants to local consortia, in which a public school works with at least one community partner. Community partners can be any one of a number of local institutions, such as local governments, institutions of higher education, child and youth-serving organizations, organizations representing parents, nonprofits, businesses, or foundations.\n\nA Community School Consortium receiving a grant could use those funds to:\n\n\u00b7 Support early childhood education, reading programs, child care, home visiting, and parental education\n\n\u00b7 Provide academic support services including tutoring, afterschool programs, and summer learning\n\n\u00b7 Reduce chronic absenteeism\n\n\u00b7 Develop programs for students and parents to learn together, including in STEM, arts, music, and a second language\n\n\u00b7 Offer multiple routes to a high school diploma including dual enrollment, early college high schools, and dropout recovery and prevention\n\n\u00b7 Support mentoring and youth development\n\n\u00b7 Provide services for students with disabilities\n\n\u00b7 Offer health services including primary care, speech and hearing, nutrition, and mental health\n\n\u00b7 Support leadership development and civic learning, job training, career counseling, and college preparation programs\n\n\u00b7 Support the recruitment and retention of teachers and school staff\n\n\u00b7 Promote parent and adult education\n\nThe DIPLOMA Act is endorsed by the Institute for Educational Leadership (IEL), the Coalition for Community Schools, the National Education Association (NEA), and the American Federation of Teachers (AFT).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-presses-kroger-and-albertsons-on-diversity-and-inclusion-as-companies-seek-merger", "Booker Presses Kroger and Albertsons on Diversity and Inclusion as Companies Seek Merger", "2022-12-07", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.) pressed The Kroger Company and Albertsons Companies, Inc. on diversity and inclusion and urged them to take steps to increase their commitments to address racial and economic disparities as the companies seek to merge.\n\nIn October, Booker, a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, joined Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) to express \u201cserious concern\u201d about the companies proposed merger.\n\n\u201cWhile I remain deeply concerned about the proposed Kroger-Albertsons merger and its impact on food security, grocery worker jobs, food prices, and market competition, I also understand this moment serves as a critical inflection point for racial justice for your companies, the communities you serve, and for our country,\u201d wrote Senator Booker in a letter to the Kroger Company CEO Rodney McMullen and Albertsons Companies, Inc. CEO Vivek Sankaran. \u201cAs you continue to work towards this proposed merger, I write to request information about how your companies are prioritizing diversity and inclusion throughout this process and to urge you to take steps to strengthen these commitments.\n\n\u201cThe racial wealth gap remains one of the most pernicious vestiges of slavery and Jim Crow laws, and is emblematic of the need to attack these problems in a multi-dimensional way. The lack of economic opportunity for Black and Brown businesses, alongside intentional, government- sponsored efforts such as red-lining, have thwarted wealth creation among communities of color\u2026Large public and private enterprises have a crucial role to play in fostering opportunities for a diverse workforce, executive leadership, and for diverse-owned businesses, both large and small, through utilizing their services as part of spending on vendors\u2026While legislation and federal, state, and local policies are important elements, the private sector can and should take steps to accelerate this change. As you look to the future, I urge you to remain national leaders by setting new standards for diversity and inclusion in the professional services industry during a merger and acquisition. This is an opportunity to bring together diverse and excellent talent, in line with your companies\u2019 commitments and help set standards for not only your industry, but for industries across the country.\u201d\n\nSenator Booker requested that Kroger and Albertsons respond to a series of questions on steps that are being taken to increase the utilization of diverse owned professional services businesses and whether the two companies are tracking what they spend with these types of businesses:\n\nWhat is the status of the preexisting commitments to diversity and inclusion by Kroger and Albertsons, and how would those commitments be impacted by the proposed merger?\n\nDo you collect data on workforce diversity? If so, please provide that information.\n\nDo you collect data on board and management diversity? If so, please provide that information.\n\nDo you currently track the amount your respective company spends with diverse-owned vendors? If so, please provide that information.\n\nDo you currently disaggregate this information by industry (e.g., legal, communications, marketing/media services, financial services, human resources, technology, engineering, auditing/accounting, consulting)? If so, please provide that information.\n\nDo you currently disaggregate this information by racial and ethnic categories, beyond simply the term \u201cminority\u201d? If so, please provide that information.\n\nDo you have board-level discussions about developing strategies to increase your company\u2019s utilization of diverse-owned professional services companies? If so, please provide summaries of those plans.\n\nI understand that Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC and Credit Suisse Group AG, and Citigroup Inc. and Wells Fargo Securities LLC, advised Albertsons and Kroger, respectively. Of the investment teams considered to facilitate this process\u2013\n\nHow many were minority- or women-led or owned?\n\nOf the investment banks considered, were any minority- or women-led or owned teams hired?\n\nI understand that six firms are providing legal counsel: Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP and Arnold & Porter Kaye Scholer, and Jenner & Block LLP, White & Case LLP, and Debevoise & Plimpton LLP, to Kroger and Albertsons respectively. Of the legal teams considered \u2013\n\nHow many were minority- or women-led or owned?\n\nOf those considered, were any minority- or women-led or owned firms hired?", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-and-bipartisan-ec-leaders-voice-concern-over-ticketmasters-handling", "Pallone and Bipartisan E&C Leaders Voice Concern Over Ticketmaster's Handling of Ticket Sales for Taylor Swift's Upcoming Tour", "2022-12-06", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone, Jr.", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", "pallone", "https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Bipartisan Energy and Commerce Committee leaders wrote to the CEO of Ticketmaster's parent company Live Nation Entertainment, Inc. today raising concerns about potentially unfair or deceptive practices in the live ticketing industry and the chaotic ticket pre-sale for Taylor Swift's upcoming concert tour. The Committee leaders requested a staff briefing from the company on the key areas of concern.\n\nThe letter was signed by Chairman Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ), Ranking Member Cathy McMorris Rodgers (R-WA), Oversight and Investigations Subcommittee Chair Diana DeGette (D-CO) and Ranking Member Morgan Griffith (R-VA), and Consumer Protection and Commerce Subcommittee Chair Jan Schakowsky (D-IL) and Ranking Member Gus Bilirakis (R-FL).\n\n\"The Energy and Commerce Committee has previously raised concerns about business practices in the live ticketing industry,\" the Committee leaders wrote. \"The recent pre-sale ticketing process for Taylor Swift's upcoming Eras tour\u2014in which millions of fans endured delays, lockouts, and competition with aggressive scammers, scalpers, and bots\u2014raises concerns over the potential unfair and deceptive practices that face consumers and eventgoers.\"\n\nIn 2019, the Energy and Commerce Committee launched a bipartisan investigation into allegations of unfair and deceptive practices in the live event ticketing industry. In February 2020, the Committee held a hearing with industry leaders including then Ticketmaster North America President Amy Howe, where she testified, \"[Ticketmaster] is thoroughly committed to business practices that promote transparency, deter deceptive practices, and provide customers with the ability to enjoy a concert, show, or game.\" The Committee leaders noted that the circumstances surrounding ticket sales for Swift's upcoming tour as well as other recent major tour ticket sales cast serious doubt on those commitments.\n\n\"To better understand the obstacles consumers have recently faced and to hear an update on actions the company has taken to maximize the experiences of average consumers, we request a Committee staff briefing with your company,\" the bipartisan Committee leaders continued. \"This should include a discussion on additional fees, insider reserves, dynamic pricing, restrictions on transferability, limited ticket availability, speculative ticketing, verified fan program requirements, and scalping by bots and other scammers.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-announces-south-amboy-will-receive-28-million-support-coastal", "Pallone Announces South Amboy Will Receive $2.8 Million to Support Coastal Resilience", "2022-12-06", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone, Jr.", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", "pallone", "https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2013 Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) today announced that South Amboy will receive $2,869,668 to bolster coastal resilience and protect wildlife habitats. The funding is distributed through the 2022 National Coastal Resilience Fund (NCRF), which is administered by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF). This year's awards included funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.\n\nThe City of South Amboy will use the funding to restore 20 acres of former industrial land along 1.5 miles of coastline through marsh and living shoreline construction to enhance nesting habitat for osprey, little blue herons, and snowy egrets. The project will revitalize the coastal ecosystem to improve resilience to flood hazards and provide the community with safe access to the waterfront.\n\n\"I'm thrilled that South Amboy is receiving federal funding to restore its coastal ecosystem and improve flood protection. Living shorelines projects are proven natural infrastructure solutions that will protect our coastal communities from the effects of climate change, including more flooding from sea level rise and stronger hurricanes. They also improve and protect wildlife habitats,\" Pallone said. \"Since Superstorm Sandy, New Jersey has invested hundreds of millions of dollars to make our state more resilient against the effects of climate change, and this funding is another step in the right direction to build on this progress.\"\n\n\"It gives me great satisfaction to know that our federal partners understand and endorse our efforts to restore our waterfront. The Raritan Bay has historically been a nexus of commerce, recreation, and beauty for many generations,\" Mayor Fred Henry said. \"Our efforts to restore a living shoreline in South Amboy would have only been a dream without the steadfast support of Congressman Pallone. We are grateful for his unstoppable support and tireless advocacy for us in Washington, DC.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-watson-coleman-calls-on-justice-thomas-to-recuse-himself-from-moore-v-harper", "Rep. Watson Coleman Calls on Justice Thomas to Recuse Himself from Moore v. Harper", "2022-12-06", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Bonnie Watson Coleman", "W000822", "watsoncoleman.house.gov", "watsoncoleman", "https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. (December 6, 2022) \u2014 With the Supreme Court set to hear oral arguments in Moore v. Harper, a case that threatens the future of free and fair elections, Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) called on Justice Clarence Thomas to recuse himself from the case.\n\nBy invoking the discredited \u201cindependent state legislature doctrine,\u201d the petitioners in Moore v. Harper will argue that the Supreme Court must uphold North Carolina\u2019s unconstitutionally gerrymandered congressional map. If the Court sides with the plaintiffs, state legislatures, not judges, governors, or election officials, will have the power to control how elections are run.\n\nJustice Clarence Thomas\u2019 wife, Virginia \u201cGinni\u201d Thomas played a key role in efforts to overturn the results of the 2020 presidential election. Following that election, Ginni Thomas corresponded with lawyer John Eastman, who led efforts to coerce then-Vice President Mike Pence to overturn the election results and is an advocate for independent state legislature theory.\n\nAlong with Senate Judiciary Committee Chair Dick Durbin, other Members of Congress, and judicial ethics experts, Congresswoman Watson Coleman has expressed concerns that Justice Thomas\u2019 connection to Ginni Thomas presents a conflict of interest in cases related to election integrity. Ginni Thomas\u2019 influence on her husband\u2019s work is well-documented.\n\nRegarding Justice Thomas\u2019 conflict of interest, Congresswoman Watson Coleman issued the following statement:\n\n\u201cDeciding a case with such dire implications for voter access to free elections while married to a woman who attempted to overturn a presidential election is a flagrant violation of judicial ethics. The petitioners in Moore v. Harper plan to use the same bogus legal reasoning that Ginni Thomas used in her own efforts to subvert the will of the people.\n\n\u201cThat the Supreme Court has even chosen to hear arguments today is further proof that the once-venerated institution has become captured by far-right interests. Even traditionally conservative legal experts, such as former Bush-appointed federal judge J. Michael Luttig, agree that the so-called \u2018independent state legislature theory\u2019 is completely devoid of legal merit. This case is merely a power grab by those who wish to silence the voice of the people in favor of granting hyper-partisan state legislatures free reign over election administration.\n\n\u201cOver the last year, the Supreme Court has demonstrated in case after case that it has become an overtly political institution. It is no surprise that public trust in the Court has hit an all-time low. To prevent faith in our nation\u2019s highest legal body from slipping even further, Justice Thomas must recuse himself from this case.\n\n\u201cWhat I ask of Justice Thomas is no extreme demand. Rather, I simply ask that he fulfill his ethical and moral obligation as a public servant. The Court\u2019s legitimacy \u2014 not to mention American democracy itself \u2014 depends on it.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-watson-coleman-honors-fallen-officer-brian-sicknick-uscp-and-dc-metro-police-who-defended-capitol-on-january-6th", "Rep. Watson Coleman Honors Fallen Officer Brian Sicknick, USCP and DC Metro Police Who Defended Capitol on January 6th", "2022-12-06", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Bonnie Watson Coleman", "W000822", "watsoncoleman.house.gov", "watsoncoleman", "https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. (December 6, 2022) \u2014 Today, Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) attended the Congressional Gold Medal award ceremony for the law enforcement officers who protected the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021. Among the officers receiving the award was Capitol Police Officer Brian Sicknick, who died after suffering two strokes the day after the insurrection.\n\nA native of New Jersey\u2019s 12th District, Sicknick was born in New Brunswick and attended East Brunswick Technical High School. He served his state and country in the New Jersey Air National Guard before joining the Capitol Police. Sicknick leaves behind his parents, his two brothers, and his longtime girlfriend.\n\nFollowing the ceremony, Congresswoman Watson Coleman issued the following statement:\n\n\u201cAs domestic terrorists stormed the Capitol on January 6, my colleagues and I feared we would not return to work on January 7. For me and many others, the trauma of that day still weighs heavily upon our minds, bodies, and souls. However, I find solace in the fact that ultimately, democracy endured.\n\n\u201cJanuary 6, 2021 marked the single greatest attack on American democracy since the Civil War. And just as it did after Lee surrendered at Appomattox, freedom prevailed over oppression. Without the valor and sacrifice of our Capitol Police and other law enforcement officers, we may have seen a very different outcome.\n\n\u201cIn no uncertain terms, the valiant officers who protected the Capitol that day are heroes. I thank each and every officer who risked everything in service of our nation. My heart goes out to the families of those who made the ultimate sacrifice, including New Jersey native Brian Sicknick. After sustaining injuries in the line of duty, Officer Sicknick sadly passed away the day after the assault on the Capitol.\n\n\u201cThe Congressional Gold Medal is the United States\u2019 highest civilian honor. In our nation\u2019s 250-year history, only 173 have been awarded. In receiving this award, Officer Sicknick and his law enforcement colleagues join the ranks of such giants as Rosa Parks, Raoul Wallenberg, and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. These brave men and women are defenders of democracy in the most literal sense of the phrase. I am eternally grateful for their service and will be forever in their debt.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-murphy-urge-us-sentencing-commission-for-fair-sentencing-during-implementation-of-bsca", "Booker, Murphy Urge US Sentencing Commission for Fair Sentencing During Implementation of BSCA", "2022-12-06", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Chris Murphy (D-CT) urged the United States Sentencing Commission (USSC) to pursue fair sentencing policies while also meeting the purposes of the USSC\u2019s directive under the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act (BSCA), legislation that was signed into law by President Biden earlier this year.\n\n\u201cAs the first meaningful federal gun safety legislation in decades, we believe that it can and will save lives. But to achieve that outcome, it is essential that the implementation of the law avoids the mistakes of the past,\u201d wrote Senators Booker and Murphy in a letter to USSC Chair Judge Carlton W. Reeves. \u201cThe Commission has an important role in ensuring fair sentencing and preventing unjust outcomes in criminal sentences. The process that the Commission undertakes will impact individuals and communities for years to come. We respectfully urge the Commission to remain steadfast in its goals to establish fair sentencing policies and practices that meet the purposes of 18 U.S.C. \u00a7 3553(a)(2) through careful research, collection and analysis of data, and input from the criminal justice community. We are mindful that this approach takes a great deal of time and effort, but it is imperative that the process be thorough to avoid any unintended consequences that result in unfair or unjust sentencing policies.\u201d\n\nThe Bipartisan Safer Communities Act includes provisions that direct the USSC to impose increased penalties for convicted straw purchasers and firearms traffickers, especially if they are affiliated with a gang or cartel. The Senators emphasized the intent of the provisions is to deter these criminal activities and urged USSC to avoid taking a broader interpretation that could lead to unfair or harsh sentencing practices.\n\n\u201cIt should be made clear that the legislative intent of the BSCA is to end the flow of illegal guns into communities and reduce gun violence. The directive\u2019s attention to both sentencing enhancements and mitigating factors reflects this focus, as it seeks to punish suppliers of the large numbers of firearms diverted from lawful commerce, while avoiding unnecessarily long sentences for people with less culpability or without significant criminal histories. The directive\u2019s instruction to the Commission to consider sentences for straw purchasers \u2018that are sufficient to deter participation in such activities and reflect the defendant\u2019s role and culpability\u2019 should not be interpreted more broadly than intended. It was our intent that the instruction that sentences be \u2018sufficient to deter participation\u2019 reflects an intent that the recommended sentences for straw purchasing be enough to achieve this goal but not excessive or unnecessary,\u201d continued the Senators.\n\nThe full text of the letter can be found here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=40C707DA-546B-4D50-8340-36E0F33489E8", "Rep. Norcross Statement on the Passing of Gaytana \u201cGaye\u201d Pino, Longtime South Jersey Community Leader and Senior Citizen Advocate", "2022-12-02", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Donald Norcross", "N000188", "norcross.house.gov", "norcross", "https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases", "page_html", "Today, U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) released the following statement upon hearing the news that Gaytana \u201cGaye\u201d Pino, a friend and longtime advocate for South Jersey seniors.\n\n\u201cI am heartbroken by the passing of Gaye Pino. Gaye was a dear friend and a longtime advocate for South Jersey\u2019s seniors. Her compassion extended to the broader community as she spent much of her life giving back to others. She developed programs, secured grants, and recruited countless volunteers over the years to keep seniors housed, healthy, and happy. She was also an accomplished business leader, having served as chair of the advisory board of Philadelphia University Business School and as the founder of the Cherry Hill Business Council. Gaye\u2019s absence leaves a hole in our community that is impossible to fill. I send my sincere condolences to her family, friends, and all who were touched by her immeasurable contributions to our community.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-03-30T11:08:25Z"], ["https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-watson-coleman-congratulates-new-house-democratic-leadership", "Rep. Watson Coleman Congratulates New House Democratic Leadership", "2022-12-01", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Bonnie Watson Coleman", "W000822", "watsoncoleman.house.gov", "watsoncoleman", "https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. (December 1, 2022) \u2014 Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman congratulated Reps. Hakeem Jeffries, Katherine Clark, and Pete Aguilar on winning the House Democratic Caucus\u2019 leadership elections.\n\nIn the 118th Congress, Jeffries will serve as Democratic Leader, Clark as Democratic Whip, and Aguilar as Democratic Caucus Chair. Jeffries will be the first Black person to lead a major political party in either house of Congress.\n\n\u201cStarting next year, the leadership of the House Democratic Caucus will look more like America. From school boards to executive boards, women and people of color belong in every room where decisions are made, and Congressional leadership is no exception,\u201d said Congresswoman Watson Coleman. \u201cBy electing a historically diverse leadership team, House Democrats are reaffirming their commitment to serving our nation\u2019s most vulnerable communities.\u201d\n\nThe elections of Jeffries, 52, Clark, 59, and Aguilar, 43, reflect House Democrats\u2019 focus on the future of their Caucus.\n\n\u201cI commend Speaker Pelosi, Majority Leader Hoyer, and Majority Whip Clyburn for passing the torch to a new generation of leadership,\u201d said Congresswoman Watson Coleman. \u201cCongratulations to Congressman Jeffries, Congresswoman Clark, and Congressman Aguilar on their historic victories. I look forward to serving under their bold new leadership as House Democrats continue fighting for the people.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-watson-coleman-votes-to-aid-reentry-prevent-recidivism", "Rep. Watson Coleman Votes to Aid Reentry, Prevent Recidivism", "2022-12-01", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Bonnie Watson Coleman", "W000822", "watsoncoleman.house.gov", "watsoncoleman", "https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "In the United States, more than 600,000 individuals are released from prison annually. These individuals lack the necessary resources to re-enter society, and as a result, many of them are encouraged to reoffend. As a result, the U.S. has one of the highest recidivism rates in the world.\n\n\u201cUpon release from prison, formerly incarcerated Americans are asked to win a series of uphill battles in order to reintegrate into their communities,\u201d said Congresswoman Watson Coleman. \u201cFor these individuals, finding housing, employment, and education can be nearly insurmountable challenges. By establishing centers that assist formerly incarcerated individuals with these processes, the One Stop Shop Community Reentry Program Act will help get these Americans back on their feet and bring us closer to breaking the cycle of recidivism. It\u2019s a necessary step toward building a more humane, more effective, more equitable criminal justice system, and I was proud to vote for it.\u201d\n\nCongresswoman Watson Coleman recently introduced the New Pathways Act, which would also prevent recidivism and address the United States\u2019 mass incarceration problem. The Congresswoman\u2019s bill would reduce barriers to reentry by directing the Bureau of Prisons to help formerly incarcerated Americans obtain government-issued identification.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-watson-coleman-votes-to-protect-pregnant-incarcerated-americans", "Rep. Watson Coleman Votes to Protect Pregnant Incarcerated Americans", "2022-12-01", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Bonnie Watson Coleman", "W000822", "watsoncoleman.house.gov", "watsoncoleman", "https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. (December 1, 2022) \u2014 Today, Congresswoman Watson Coleman voted to pass H.R. 6878, the Pregnant Women in Custody Act, which directs the Bureau of Prisons to provide more substantial pregnancy and childbirth services for pregnant incarcerated Americans. The Congresswoman is a cosponsor of this bipartisan legislation.\n\nEach year, an estimated 58,000 pregnant Americans are incarcerated. While incarcerated, they lack the necessary health care and nutrition to ensure healthy childbirth. The Pregnant Women in Custody Act addresses this issue by ensuring that federal prisons offer appropriate pregnancy and childbirth services, provide the appropriate training for correctional officers, and end restrictive housing practices for pregnant and postpartum Americans in custody.\n\n\u201cPregnancy and childbirth are demanding, and they can be almost impossibly demanding for incarcerated Americans. Our criminal justice system lacks the resources and expertise to ensure that pregnant incarcerated individuals have the care they need,\u201d said Congresswoman Watson Coleman. \u201cThe bipartisan Pregnant Women in Custody Act will assist incarcerated mothers through all stages of their pregnancy. That means not only ensuring adequate childbirth services, but also investing in appropriate nutrition, maternity care, and postpartum services. While much work remains to be done toward building a more humane justice system, I was proud to vote for legislation that would improve the health and wellness of incarcerated mothers and their children.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-huffman-merkley-lowenthal-introduce-legislation-to-address-plastic-production-crisis", "Booker, Huffman, Merkley, Lowenthal Introduce Legislation to Address Plastic Production Crisis", "2022-12-01", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.) and Representative Jared Huffman (D-CA-2nd), together with U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley (D-OR) and Representative Alan Lowenthal (D-CA-47th), introduced the Protecting Communities from Plastics Act, legislation that addresses the plastic production crisis that is fueling climate change and perpetuating environmental injustice.\n\nWith plastic production and consumption on track to double in the next decade, the resulting greenhouse gas emissions threaten to put our climate goals further out of reach, while expanded plastic production will drive more pollution in environmental justice communities around the United States. Petrochemical, plastic production, and waste incineration facilities, which are disproportionately located in or near Black, Brown, and low-wealth communities, release harmful air and water pollution that cause increased incidences of asthma, cancers, endocrine disruption, development disorders, and heart disease. Transitioning off of fossil fuels only to replace that demand with more fossil-based plastic production is not a sustainable solution, and will continue to perpetuate existing climate and environmental justice impacts.\n\nThe Protecting Communities from Plastics Act would directly tackle the plastic pollution crisis by cracking down on the plastic production process, building on key provisions from the Break Free From Plastic Pollution Act to address the harmful environmental justice impacts of this growing sector, and moving our economy away from an overreliance on single-use plastic. It establishes stricter rules for petrochemical plants to safeguard the health of American communities and reduce greenhouse gas emissions fueling the climate crisis. The bill would also begin to shift the U.S. economy away from its dependence on certain single-use plastics, creating new nationwide targets for plastic source reduction and reuse in the packaging and food service sectors. These targets are paired with federal incentives to spur expansion of reusable and refillable systems, with an emphasis on ensuring benefits are realized in environmental justice communities.\n\n\u201cAs we transition to clean energy, fossil-based plastic production threatens our efforts to address the dual challenges of climate change and environmental injustice,\u201d said Sen. Booker. \u201cIn fenceline communities near plastics facilities, residents suffer from exposure to harmful pollutants and increased rates of debilitating health conditions such as cancer and heart disease. To address these environmental injustices, I am proud to introduce this legislation to create nationwide targets for single-use plastic source reduction and to pause permitting of new and expanded plastics facilities while the EPA makes much-needed regulatory updates to protect communities.\u201d\n\n\u201cMany of us know and live by the three R\u2019s\u2014reduce, reuse, and recycle\u2014in the hope that as long as we put our plastic items into blue bins, we\u2019ll protect our environment and our communities,\u201d?said Sen. Merkley, who serves as the Chair of the Environment and Public Works subcommittee overseeing environmental justice and chemical safety.?\u201cUnfortunately, when it comes to plastics, the three B\u2019s are much more common\u2014plastic is buried, burned, or borne out to sea\u2014which means dangerous chemicals are seeping into our air, water, and soil, threatening Americans\u2019 health everywhere, and disproportionately in communities of color and low-income communities. With plastic particles ending up on the snowcaps of the arctic and inside our own blood streams, it\u2019s clear we need strong legislation to get this plastics crisis under control. I look forward to working with colleagues in both chambers to get these solutions into place and protect the health of all Americans.\u201d\n\n\u201cPlastic pollution isn\u2019t just a problem for our oceans and climate \u2013 it's a massive environmental injustice, directly impacting frontline and fenceline communities throughout the plastics lifecycle,\u201d said Rep. Huffman. \u201cMy bill will protect the health of our communities, reduce greenhouse gas emissions fueling the climate crisis, and stop the fossil fuel industry's petro-dictatorship as it eyes plastics as a safety net. The clock is ticking, and we will keep working on this next Congress \u2013 but we are sending a message here and now to put oil and gas companies on notice. Our communities must come first.\u201d\n\n\u201cAs a society, we have become addicted to harmful fossil fuels, and our plastics crisis is another ever-present reminder,\u201d said Congressman Lowenthal. \u201cThe evidence is clear: the plastic waste crisis is not simply a solid waste issue, but is intimately tied to climate change, environmental justice, and international human rights \u2013 as the production and pollution of plastics harm public health, the environment, and our climate. Simply shifting our dependence from one application of fossil fuel to another is not the answer. Continuing to overburden vulnerable frontline communities is not a solution.\u201d\n\n\"Lives continue to be lost from the petrochemical industry's deadly pollution and outsized carbon emissions, which also drive climate change,\u201d said Astrid DuBois, Legislative Coordinator of WE Act for Environmental Justice. \u201cThe Protecting Communities from Plastic Act will safeguard Communities of Color and areas of low income, who are most impacted, from the burdens of inequitable facility siting and require cumulative impact considerations in the permitting process.\"\n\n\"We are thrilled to see a bill that prioritizes the health and safety of frontline communities in calling for a reduction in single-use plastics and a pause on new or expanded plastic and petrochemical facilities. For too long, Black, Brown, Indigenous and low-income communities have suffered the worst impacts of the plastic pollution crisis \u2013 from the extraction of fossil fuels to plastic production and incineration. It is time to hold the petrochemical industry accountable for the harm and injustice they create by poisoning our air, water, and soil, as well as by fueling the climate crisis. The Protecting Communities from Plastics Act is an important first step towards replacing toxic and harmful petrochemicals with real solutions like nontoxic reuse and refill systems,\" said Melissa Aguayo, US Regional Coordinator, Break Free From Plastic.\n\n\u201cThe Protecting Communities From Plastics Act is a critical step towards addressing the sweeping harms caused by the petrochemical industry at the root of both the climate and the plastic pollution crises. It also ensures that the U.S. does not continue to rely on harmful systems that perpetuate single-use in the form of chemical recycling or incineration: the legislation will prevent the EPA from including chemical recycling technologies in the national recycling strategy, and will instead focus on making less plastic in the first place,\u201d said Dr. Anja Brandon, Associate Director of U.S. Plastics Policy at Ocean Conservancy.\n\n\u201cThere isn\u2019t a part of our planet that remains untouched by plastic. As plastic pollution piles up in our waterways, oceans, and landfills, and is burned in incinerators, the oil and gas industry is doubling down on the production of plastics and other petrochemicals. Plastic is harmful at every stage of its life cycle from extraction to disposal, contributing to climate change, releasing toxic chemicals, and finding its way into our bodies \u2013 even the bodies of newborn babies. The Protecting Communities From Plastics Act will reduce our reliance on unnecessary plastics, protect the health of the families living in the fenceline communities located near plastics facilities, and expand our understanding of the effect of plastics on the human body. Moms Clean Air Force commends Senator Booker and Representative Huffman for introducing this bill and urges its swift passage,\u201d said Melody Reis, Senior Legislative Manager of Moms Clean Air Force.\n\n\u201cPlastic production is out of control, and frontline communities are suffering the most from the noxious pollution this industry releases into the air and chemicals it dumps into the water,\u201d said Blake Kopcho, a senior campaigner at the Center for Biological Diversity. \u201cThe only way to keep plastic out of our air, water, wildlife and even our own bodies is to make less of it. Holding petrochemical companies accountable for the toxic substances they create and profit from makes a ton of sense, and we need bold legislation like this act to do it.\u201d\n\n\"Plastic pollution is far more than a trash problem that can be solved by recycling. From polluting our air and water to extending dependence on fossil fuels, plastic production is toxic at every stage. We applaud the Protecting Communities from Plastics Act for calling out the ongoing harm plastic manufacture has on human and planetary health, and providing a much-needed course correction toward the safer, healthier and more sustainable future we all deserve,\u201d said Jennifer Savage, Plastic Pollution Initiative Senior Manager, Surfrider Foundation.\n\nThe Protecting Communities from Plastics Act is cosponsored by Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) and Representatives Rashida Tlaib (D-MI-13th), Jimmy Panetta (D-CA-20th), Nanette Barrag\u00e1n (D-CA-44th), Ted Lieu (D-CA-33rd), Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-NJ-12th), Gerald E. Connolly (D-VA-11th), Raul Grijalva (D-AZ-3rd), Barbara Lee (D-CA-13th), Mike Quigley (D-IL-5th), Suzanne Bonamici (D-OR-1st), Chellie Pingree (D-ME-1st), Earl Blumenauer (D-OR-3rd), Jan Schakowsky (D-IL-9th), Mike Levin (D-CA-49th), and Sean Casten (D-IL-6th).\n\nA list of endorsing organizations can be found here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-reintroduces-legislation-protecting-family-caregivers-from-discrimination", "Booker Reintroduces Legislation Protecting Family Caregivers from Discrimination", "2022-12-01", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.) has reintroduced the Protecting Family Caregivers from Discrimination Act, legislation that would expand protections for family caregivers from discrimination by their employers. Currently, many caregivers are ineligible for any form of protection under federal law and continue to face discrimination in the workplace due to their family caregiving responsibilities.\n\nThe legislation would prohibit employers from firing, demoting, mistreating, refusing to hire, or taking other adverse employment action against workers who are caregivers for their loved ones.\n\nThe legislation would also prohibit employers from retaliating against a worker for seeking enforcement of these discrimination protections and it would establish a grant program to assist in preventing and combating such discrimination.\n\n\u201cMost family caregivers are employed and work to balance the responsibilities of their job while also providing vital services as caregivers. It is unacceptable that workers are being discriminated against simply because they have responsibilities outside of the workplace,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cEvery person has the potential to become a caregiver at some point in their life, and it is essential that we create protections and provide the support needed to make sure that they can continue to care for their loved ones while they work.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe applaud Senator Booker for reintroducing the Protecting Family Caregivers from Discrimination Act,\u201d said Sarah Brafman, National Policy Director of A Better Balance. \u201cThose who do the crucial work of caring for their loved ones deserve to be supported in maintaining their economic security, not penalized or discriminated against at work because of their caregiving responsibilities. Especially in the wake of the pandemic and other health crises facing families, which both brought to light many different kinds of caregiving needs and had a shockingly damaging effect on caregivers, Congress must act to provide caregivers with the protections they deserve and send the message that no worker should have to choose between the health of their family and their paycheck.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe applaud Senator Booker for standing up for family caregivers and reintroducing the Protecting Family Caregivers from Discrimination Act,\u201d said Indivar Dutta-Gupta, President and Executive Director at the Center for Law and Social Policy (CLASP). \u201cCaregivers and families were already in crisis, and the pandemic made the situation even worse. Too often caregivers are penalized or discriminated against because of their caregiving responsibilities, forcing them to make impossible choices between their family and their jobs. Congress must act to protect caregivers and ensure they have the job stability and economic security they need to take care of themselves and their family members.\u201d\n\n\u201cParents should be able to both care for their children and support them financially,\u201d said Joan C. Williams, Director of the Center for WorkLife Law. \u201cOver the last 25 years, we\u2019ve heard parents and other family caregivers\u2019 calls for help reach a fever pitch; too many workers are being harassed, demoted, and even fired because they are family caregivers. We applaud the introduction of the Protecting Family Caregivers from Discrimination Act as a critical measure to protect families and stem the flow of caregivers out of the workforce.\u201d\n\n\u201cPeople with disabilities and their families are all too familiar with the discrimination that many caregivers face when they take the time they need to be with their loved ones,\u201d said Bethany Lilly, Senior Director of Public Policy at The Arc of the United States. \u201cWe are grateful for Senator Booker\u2019s attention to this issue and strongly support the Protecting Family Caregivers from Discrimination Act. The bill would provide crucial protections for caregivers who need flexibility from their workplace to provide care. Especially as the disability service system faces a worsening staffing shortage, more family caregivers than ever will need these protections.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe thank Senator Booker for standing up for caregivers in the workforce. This bill will help caregivers provide for their families, while also caring for their children, parents, siblings, and other family and chosen family,\u201d said Ai-jen Poo, Executive Director of Caring Across Generations. \u201cOur patchwork system of care relies too heavily on unpaid caregivers who often suffer lost wages and struggle to save for retirement. Care is the work that makes all other work possible. Yet care work is still undervalued and unrecognized and as a nation, we take caregivers for granted. It\u2019s time to protect caregivers from discrimination in the workplace. No one should have to choose between paying their bills and caring for their family.\u201d\n\n\u201cNow more than ever, lawmakers must support working families. Parents and other caregivers have faced increased levels of discrimination, job loss and difficulty re-entering the workforce due to caregiving responsibilities,\u201d said Jessica Stender, Policy Director & Deputy Legal Director of Equal Rights Advocates. \u201cWe applaud Senator Booker for reintroducing the Protecting Family Caregivers from Discrimination Act in order to ensure that workers are protected from workplace discrimination based on their family responsibilities and have the flexibility they need to provide care without the risk of losing their economic security.\u201d\n\n\u201cWomen have long taken on the bulk of caregiving responsibilities for children and others in their households, and have too often been forced to make impossible choices between maintaining their jobs and caring for their families,\u201d said Emily Martin, Vice President for Education & Workplace Justice at the National Women\u2019s Law Center. \u201cThe Protecting Family Caregivers from Discrimination Act is a much-needed measure that will protect the workplace rights of those who provide the care that we all depend on. Crucially, the bill extends these protections beyond parents to include anyone caring for members of their chosen family. Supporting caregivers is a vital measure as we strive to create workplaces that work for all people.\n\nThroughout his time in the Senate, Senator Booker has worked on other legislation that supported family caregivers. In 2017, Booker worked with U.S. Representative Bill Pascrell (D-N.J.-09) to reintroduce the In-Home Caregiver Assessment Resources & Education (CARE) Act, legislation that would provide the training and support caregivers need by establishing competitive grants to health care entities and community organizations to carry out family caregiver home visiting programs. These programs would allow providers to assess caregivers\u2019 specific needs and help tailor training and resources to best serve the care recipient.\n\nThe legislation is endorsed by: The Center for WorkLife Law, National Employment Law Project, The National Alliance for Caregiving, The Caregiver Action Network, Caring Across Generations, The National Women\u2019s Law Center, A Better Balance, National Partnership for Women & Families, The Arc of the United States, The National Domestic Workers Alliance, California Women\u2019s Law Center, Equal Rights Advocates, Main Street Alliance, Physicians for Reproductive Health, National Organization for Women, NJ Citizen Action, NJ Time to Care Coalition, Workplace Justice Lab at Rutgers University, and Legal Momentum", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-sullivan-reintroduce-world-aids-day-resolution", "Booker, Sullivan Reintroduce World AIDS Day Resolution", "2022-12-01", "2022", "2022-12", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "Washington, DC - Today, on World AIDS Day, U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ) and Dan Sullivan (R-AK) reintroduced a resolution commemorating and supporting the goals of World AIDS Day, including the goal to achieve zero new HIV infections and AIDS-related deaths. The resolution recognizes current efforts made by the United States and international organizations in combatting HIV/AIDS while also encouraging greater coordination between the global community to end the HIV epidemic by 2030.\n\n\u201cAround the world, nearly 40 million people are living with HIV/AIDS, with Black and Brown communities disproportionately affected by this disease,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cAs we commemorate World AIDS Day, let us never forget the number of lives lost to this deadly disease and recommit to eradicating HIV/AIDS in the United States and worldwide by scaling up support for prevention, treatment, and research programs.\u201d\n\n\u201cSince my time working in the George W. Bush administration, I\u2019ve been an ardent supporter of robust funding for PEPFAR, a federal program started by President Bush that has treated nearly 15 million people around the world living with HIV/AIDS,\u201d said Senator Sullivan. \u201cBut this virus still claims the lives of hundreds of thousands of people every year. I\u2019m glad to join Senator Booker and our House colleagues in introducing a resolution to recognize World AIDS Day and commend the critical work being done to prevent infections, end this devastating pandemic, and save lives.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:32:05Z"], ["https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=10BFEEDE-644C-4D4B-A98E-D9F39C96B7BD", "Rep. Norcross's Statement on Rail Agreement Vote", "2022-11-30", "2022", "2022-11", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Donald Norcross", "N000188", "norcross.house.gov", "norcross", "https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases", "page_html", "U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) today released the following statement after voting for granting America\u2019s rail workers paid sick leave:\n\n\u201cToday, I voted to keep a critical piece of American infrastructure running: our railways. I voted to ensure that the workers who operate that strategic asset are treated fairly, earn a decent wage, and get paid sick leave. These hardworking men and women kept food on the table during the pandemic and kept goods on the shelves of small businesses. Our nation needs these workers to be healthy and strong so we can continue to grow our economy and deliver for the American people.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-03-30T11:08:25Z"], ["https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=6176D4FA-2A14-40C4-81CB-EE6FEB3C7D48", "Rep. Norcross Statement on Retirement of IBEW International President Lonnie R. Stephenson", "2022-11-30", "2022", "2022-11", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Donald Norcross", "N000188", "norcross.house.gov", "norcross", "https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases", "page_html", "WASHINGTON, DC \u2013 U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01), the only IBEW electrician in Congress, released the following statement regarding the retirement of IBEW International President Lonnie R. Stephenson:\n\n\u201cLonnie R. Stephenson is a worker\u2019s labor leader. He began his career as an IBEW apprentice, and that experience shaped his service on behalf of working people over the next five decades. Lonnie\u2019s tenure as international president has been marked by a fierce commitment to fair working conditions. IBEW is larger, stronger, and more diverse than ever before, thanks to Lonnie\u2019s commitment to the working men and women who are the backbone of the American economy.\n\nOn the appointment of International Secretary-Treasurer Kenneth W. Cooper to fill the remainder of Stephenson\u2019s term and Sixth District International Vice President Paul Noble to fill the remainder of Cooper\u2019s term, Congressman Norcross had this to say:\n\n\u201cLike Lonnie and me, Kenneth Cooper and Paul Noble began as apprentices and have worked their way up, proving their dedication to America\u2019s workers and IBEW\u2019s members through tenacity and hard work. I am confident that as the next international president and international secretary-treasurer, Kenneth and Paul will carry on Lonnie\u2019s legacy and further advance workers\u2019 rights.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-03-30T11:08:25Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/news-sanders-gillibrand-baldwin-booker-brown-markey-merkley-padilla-reed-smith-warren-and-whitehouse-joint-statement-on-senate-taking-up-sick-leave-for-rail-workers", "NEWS: Booker, Sanders, Gillibrand, Baldwin, Brown, Markey, Merkley, Padilla, Reed, Smith, Warren, and Whitehouse Joint Statement on Senate Taking Up Sick Leave For Rail Workers", "2022-11-30", "2022", "2022-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, November 30 \u2013 Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Sens. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.) on Wednesday issued the following joint statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed legislation averting a rail strike and guaranteeing paid sick leave for rail workers:\n\n\u201cWe thank President Biden and Labor Secretary Walsh for their hard work in negotiating a tentative agreement that is better than the disastrous proposal put forward by the rail industry. But Congress can and must make this agreement better.\n\n\u201cFor nearly three years our nation\u2019s rail workers have been fighting on the front lines of the pandemic. They have kept our trains on the track even while facing unprecedented challenges.\n\n\u201cSupply chain problems coupled with increased consumer spending and online shopping habits have put the freight rail industry under incredible strain. And as a result train crews have been working around the clock often with inflexible and unpredictable work schedules to transport everything from food and fuel to medical supplies and cleaning products.\n\n\u201cBut even as the need for worker protections and workplace flexibility have grown, railroad companies provide zero days of paid sick leave to their workers. What this means is that if a rail worker comes down with COVID, the flu or some other illness and calls in sick, that worker will not only receive no pay, but will be penalized and, in some cases, fired. That is absolutely unacceptable. During the first three quarters of this year, the rail industry made a record-breaking $21.2 billion in profits. Guaranteeing 7 paid sick days to rail workers would only cost the industry $321 million a year \u2013 less than 2 percent of their total profits. Please do not tell us that the rail industry cannot afford to guarantee paid sick days to their workers.\n\n\u201cWe commend the House for addressing this outrageous situation and guaranteeing paid sick days to every rail worker in America. We urge the Senate to quickly take up the House-passed language for a roll call vote and urge our colleagues to support these workers. We look forward to bipartisan support.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:24:37Z"], ["https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=666641FF-575A-42E0-B8AE-E1F4A4865259", "Rep. Norcross, Labor Caucus Escalate Demand for Increased NLRB Funding in Year-End Package", "2022-11-29", "2022", "2022-11", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Donald Norcross", "N000188", "norcross.house.gov", "norcross", "https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases", "page_html", "U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) and his fellow Congressional Labor Caucus co-chairs \u2013 Representatives Debbie Dingell (MI-12), Mark Pocan (WI-02), Linda S\u00e1nchez (CA-38), and Tom Suozzi (NY-03) \u2013 today urged House and Senate leaders to adequately fund the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) in the end-of-the-year appropriations package. In a letter to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (CA-12) and Senate Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY), the co-chairs called attention to the dire need to shore up the independent federal agency that protects private sector workers\u2019 rights.\n\n\u201c\u2026 [W]e write to \u2026 express our grave concern over the ongoing funding crisis at the National Labor Relations Board,\u201d the letter reads. \u201cSimply put, the status quo of NLRB funding is untenable. Continuing to underfund the NLRB not only puts workers\u2019 rights at risk but also subjects employers to costly uncertainty. [\u2026] Our economy, our Nation\u2019s employers, and our Nation\u2019s workers need the NLRB to receive funding that allows it to fully implement its mission.\u201d\n\nThe letter escalates a request originally made in an April 2022 letter, led by Congressman Norcross and signed by 148 of his colleagues, to House Appropriations Committee Chair Rosa DeLauro and Ranking Member Tom Role requesting the NLRB receive additional funding. Today\u2019s letter identifies it as a \u201ctop priority\u201d for the Congressional Labor Caucus.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-03-30T11:08:25Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-applauds-passage-of-respect-for-marriage-act", "Booker Applauds Passage of Respect for Marriage Act", "2022-11-29", "2022", "2022-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.) issued the following statement celebrating the Senate passage of the Respect for Marriage Act:\n\n\u201cI am proud that today, the United States Senate lived up to our nation\u2019s highest ideals by passing legislation that will protect the rights of all Americans, regardless of who they choose to marry. No one in a same-sex or interracial marriage should ever worry about whether or not their marriage will be invalidated in the future.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:24:37Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-jones-lead-colleagues-in-urging-hhs-cms-and-hrsa-to-improve-opo-performance-and-increase-access-to-organ-transplantations", "Booker, Jones Lead Colleagues in Urging HHS, CMS, and HRSA to Improve OPO Performance and Increase Access to Organ Transplantations", "2022-11-29", "2022", "2022-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.) and U.S. Representative Mondaire Jones (D-N.Y.-17) urged the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), and Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) to increase access to organ transplantations by ensuring that the organ procurement and transplantation system functions at its optimal level.\n\nThe letter also urged the HHS, CMS, and HRSA to reduce racial inequities in receiving organ transplants and waiting times for organ transplants by mandating additional transparency for HHS-certified organ procurement organizations (OPOs), which are responsible for facilitating organ recovery, and breaking up the federal monopoly contract called the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network (OPTN), which is responsible for managing the national organ donation system and has only ever been held by one contractor, the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS). Multiple government reports and Congressional investigations have found that the system is woefully underperforming, with disproportionate harm for patients of color.\n\n\u201cWhile we commend the steps that have already been taken to address this crisis, the timeline for enforcement of these performance metrics is lengthy,\u201d wrote Senator Booker and Representative Jones in a letter to HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra, CMS Administrator Chiquita Brooks-LaSure, and HRSA Administrator Carole Johnson. \u201cWe encourage CMS to take measures to oversee and improve OPO performance in the interim given the lives at stake and equity implications.\u201d\n\nThe Members urged HHS to outline steps \u201cto ensure that UNOS does not maintain a monopoly over our nation\u2019s transplant system, following the recommendations from the Senate Finance Committee\u201d as well as actions \u201cto open OPO process data for evidence of effective and equitable performance, and to hold failing OPOs accountable before 2026, given that any delay costs lives and constitutes an urgent health care equity issue.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe must ensure that the U.S. organ procurement and transplantation system functions at its optimal level to prevent any missed opportunity for organ donation. No American should die while waiting for a transplant, especially while thousands of lifesaving organs go unrecovered,\u201d wrote Senator Booker and Representative Jones.\n\nThe letter is cosigned by: U.S. Senators Ben Cardin (D-MD) and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA); U.S. Representatives Jamaal Bowman (D-N.Y.-16), Ro Khanna (D-CA-17), Donald Payne, Jr. (D-N.J.-10), Sheila Jackson Lee (D-TX-18), Katie Porter (D-CA-45), Troy Carter (D-LA-02), Barbara Lee (D-CA-13), Ayanna Pressley (D-MA-07), Andr\u00e9 Carson (D-IN-07), Steve Cohen (D-TN-09), Ritchie Torres (D-N.Y.-15), and Al Green (D-TX-09).\n\nThe letter is supported by: Ben Jealous (former NAACP President), Organize, Federation of American Scientists, Project on Government Oversight, Just Equity for Health, Health Justice, Empower Her Health, Institute for Antiracism in Medicine, American Medical Student Association, and Global Liver Institute.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:24:37Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-norton-announce-senate-hearing-on-enslaved-voyages-memorial-act", "Booker, Norton Announce Senate Hearing on Enslaved Voyages Memorial Act", "2022-11-29", "2022", "2022-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.) and U.S. Representative Eleanor Holmes Norton (D-DC) announced today that the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources will hold a hearing on their Enslaved Voyages Memorial Act, which would authorize the establishment of a memorial on federal land in the District of Columbia to honor enslaved persons, on Thursday, December 1, 2022, at 10:00 a.m. Media and the general public will be able to view the hearing here.\n\nBooker and Norton\u2019s bill passed the House in September. The memorial, to be established by the Georgetown African American Historic Landmark Project and Tour, would honor enslaved persons\u2019 presence, celebrate their contributions to history, and recognize their resilience and fortitude.\n\n\u201cIn a dark chapter of our nation\u2019s history, millions of enslaved people were brought to this land against their will. We must ensure that their stories and immense contributions are lifted up and never forgotten,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cI applaud the House for passing my Enslaved Voyages Memorial Act and commend the Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources for taking up this important legislation in their next hearing.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:24:37Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-brown-press-amazon-on-workplace-safety-ahead-of-the-holiday-sales-season", "Booker, Brown Press Amazon on Workplace Safety Ahead of the Holiday Sales Season", "2022-11-23", "2022", "2022-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-N.J.) and Sherrod Brown (D-OH) pressed Amazon on workplace safety ahead of the holiday sales season. The letter comes after continued disturbing reports of dangerous workplace conditions at Amazon facilities throughout the country, particularly the tragic deaths of three workers within three weeks in New Jersey Amazon facilities earlier this summer. Additionally, reports have shown that from 2020 to 2021, Amazon Warehouses' injury rates increased by 54% in New Jersey and 20% across the country.\n\n\u201cAs this pattern of insufficient response by Amazon continues and the effects are evident, it is even more important for Amazon to address exacerbated safety issues during busy holidays for consumers,\u201d the Senators wrote to Amazon CEO Andy Jassy. \u201cIn 2019, a report found that Amazon employees suffered serious injuries at five times the rate of the national average for all private industries.5 Rafael Mota, an Amazon worker at a facility in Carteret was the first of three New Jersey Amazon employees who died this summer. His coworkers reported that Rafael had pleaded for fans to be placed near them in the facility, a request which was denied hours before his death. This fatality occurred on Prime Day, the biggest \u201cdeal event of the year.\u201d Data from 2019 shows that Amazon had full knowledge of the risks associated with Prime Day and internal reports warned that warehouses in New Jersey, New York, Maryland and Connecticut \u201cwere expecting an increase in injuries across all sites during Prime Week.\u201d6 Eleven days after Rafael\u2019s death, an Amazon employee died at a facility in Robbinsville, New Jersey, a location which had a record of worker safety violations.7 The following week, another fatality occurred at a delivery station in Monroe, New Jersey. This is abhorrent\u201d\n\n\u201cReporting suggests that conditions for Amazon workers are worsening and are out of line with industry norms, leading to ongoing federal investigations and litigation across the country,\u201d the Senators continued. \u201cIndeed, OSHA is conducting an ongoing investigation into hazards in Amazon warehouses in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, California, Tennessee, Washington, and nation-wide. Under the OSHA law, employers have a legal obligation to provide a workplace free of hazards that can cause serious physical harm or death. We urge you to proactively implement policies to improve conditions in the meantime.\u201d\n\nSpecifically, the Senators urged Amazon to:\n\nImmediately implement paid, comprehensive workplace safety trainings for all employees, including temporary workers, independent contractors, and any other worker performing duties for Amazon;\n\nTake steps to improve warehouse ventilation and air quality, including through facilities upgrades and investments including new or enlarged A/C units, fans, and windows with the ability to open.\n\nImprove shift rotations so that workers are not spending prolonged periods of time working close to significant indoor heat sources, including large-scale machinery like boilers, or performing highly aerobic activities without rest;\n\nAllow and encourage workers to take a preventative cool-down rest in the cool areas when they feel the need to do so to protect themselves from overheating and such access shall be permitted at all times.\n\nAddress the sky-high rates of musculoskeletal disorders in all operations by immediately conducting a safety analysis to identify the ergonomic hazards and implement job design changes that reduce the risk to workers.\n\nProvide adequate and timely medical referral for a doctor\u2019s care to injured workers, assuring that the delays in care found by OSHA in its investigations of the New Jersey Robbinsville facility no longer exist and that all medical staff are operating under their legal scope of practice.\n\nHire enough workers to provide all workers with appropriate time off with their families.\n\nDuring his time in the Senate, Senator Booker has led efforts in calling out workplace safety concerns. Specifically, in 2020 related to the coronavirus pandemic, he sent a letter to Amazon, the U.S. Postal Service, and Walmart.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:24:37Z"], ["https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=6D998300-344E-4229-BCD4-46026A319697", "Norcross, Booker Lead Colleagues in Urging FHWA to Explain Decision to Block NJDOT\u2019s Roadway Safety Messages", "2022-11-22", "2022", "2022-11", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Donald Norcross", "N000188", "norcross.house.gov", "norcross", "https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases", "page_html", "CAMDEN, NJ \u2013 Today, Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) and Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.), along with U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-N.J.) and U.S. Representatives Bill Pascrell (D-N.J.-09), Donald Payne Jr. (D-N.J.-10), Jeff Van Drew (R-N.J.-02), Andy Kim (D-N.J.-03), Tom Malinowski (D-N.J.-07), Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-N.J.-12), Mikie Sherrill (D-N.J.-11), Frank Pallone (D-N.J.-06), and Josh Gottheimer (D-N.J.-05), expressed concerns to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) over its decision to block the New Jersey Department of Transportation\u2019s (NJDOT) creative, attention-grabbing roadway safety messages.\n\n\u201cLast month, NJDOT began a campaign utilizing humor and New Jersey culture to raise awareness around safety. These quintessential Garden State messages have had a significant positive reception around the state, and have helped to alert in-state and out-of-state motorists to take reasonable precautions,\u201d wrote Congressman Norcross and colleagues in a letter to FHWA Acting Administrator Stephanie Pollack. \u201cGiven the positive reception around these recent safety efforts in New Jersey, I am very concerned to have learned of FHWA\u2019s decision to block the use of these signs earlier this week without providing NJDOT with a comprehensive, data-driven justification for the decision. I understand that FHWA requires roadway signs to command the attention of the motorist and convey a simple clear meaning. The recent campaign in New Jersey to deliver creative, short, humorous, and attention-grabbing messages seems to be an absolutely ideal way to raise awareness around safety and potentially save lives.\u201d\n\nIn the letter, the members requested the FHWA:", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-03-30T11:08:25Z"], ["https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-murphy-call-biden-administration-swiftly-deliver-funding-promote", "Pallone, Murphy Call on Biden Administration to Swiftly Deliver Funding to Promote Coastal Resilience", "2022-11-22", "2022", "2022-11", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone, Jr.", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", "pallone", "https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2013 Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) and Senator Chris Murphy (D-CT) today urged the Biden Administration to quickly implement investments in living shoreline projects from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act. In a letter to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Administrator Richard W. Spinrad, Pallone and Murphy called on the agency to use the funding allocated in the laws to directly support projects that will protect and restore coastal and marine habitats. The lawmakers also encouraged NOAA to study living shorelines' ability to reduce disaster recovery costs from flooding and remove potential roadblocks to project permitting.\n\nLiving shoreline infrastructure projects use natural materials and systems, including dunes, wetlands, and oyster reefs to support the natural flood resilience of healthy shoreline ecosystems. Natural infrastructure is cost-effective and adaptable to changing environmental conditions. It also enhances ecosystem functions which can improve water quality and wildlife habitat protection. Certain types of living shorelines can support carbon mitigation. They are also affordable and create jobs. NOAA received $3 billion through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and $2.8 billion through the Inflation Reduction Act to build living shoreline projects and conduct research on best practices in using these projects to protect coastal communities.\n\n\"We are proud of this immense investment to build community and ecosystem resilience to climate change while bolstering our economy. We urge you to dedicate the necessary resources that will ensure the swift implementation of these critical investments in our coastal communities,\" the lawmakers wrote. \"Congress has provided NOAA with a historic opportunity to protect American coastal communities and our precious ecosystems from climate change threats. We urge you to prioritize nature-based coastal resilience efforts, like living shoreline infrastructure and research, as you create plans for this significant funding.\"\n\nThe investments in living shoreline projects from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation are modeled on a bill that Pallone and Murphy introduced in 2021. The Living Shorelines Act would have created two federal grant programs through NOAA to assist states and localities in constructing living shorelines and provide federal research grants to eligible entities to study living shoreline development and effectiveness. The new investments in NOAA from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act will achieve these goals. In 2019, Pallone highlighted a living shoreline project that is already strengthening the coastline in New Jersey.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:24:37Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-announces-legislation-to-hold-large-factory-farms-accountable-and-improve-animal-welfare", "Booker Announces Legislation to Hold Large Factory Farms Accountable and Improve Animal Welfare", "2022-11-22", "2022", "2022-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.) announced the Industrial Agriculture Accountability Act, legislation that would place the liability for responsible disaster mitigation on corporations and industrial operators by requiring those entities to register with USDA, submit disaster preparedness plans, and pay a fee to establish a fund focused on disaster events. This new fund, the High-Risk AFO Disaster Mitigation Fund, will be utilized to enforce disaster mitigation plans and ensure that the most humane practices are used if depopulation is absolutely necessary.\n\nThe legislation would also ensure that industrial operators aren\u2019t using inhumane methods in other aspects of the food system by ending line-speed increases and meatpacker self-inspection programs for animal slaughter, closing regulatory loopholes to prohibit the slaughter of all downed animals, and requiring more humane treatment of livestock transported for long periods.\n\nLastly, the legislation would invest resources for higher-welfare slaughter technology in meat and poultry processing facilities and establish a pilot program to train and employ more part-time inspectors for small processing plants.\n\nDuring the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, amid slaughterhouse shutdowns and rapid virus spread, USDA and other public health officials aided industrial livestock and poultry producers in the depopulation of millions of animals, often under incredibly cruel conditions. The total number of animals killed and under what conditions remains in question, as companies aren\u2019t currently required to report on depopulation actions.\n\n\u201cWe\u2019ve seen multiple recent crises that have shined a light on the threat that corporate meat producers and their web of factory farms represent to workers, animals, the environment, and rural communities. Built by agribusinesses, the industrial livestock and poultry system is designed to maximize production\u2013 while externalizing risk and liability\u2013 to ensure corporate profits even when the system fails,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cThe Industrial Agriculture Accountability Act would place the liability for disasters where it belongs\u2013on the corporations and industrial operators who profit the most from factory farming and ensure farmed animals are not subjugated to cruel and inhumane practices.\u201d\n\n\"Most Americans would be shocked to learn that taxpayers are often footing the bill when animals on factory farms are killed in cruel ways, and that billions of chickens and turkeys are not legally protected from suffering at slaughter,\u201d said Matt Bershadker, ASPCA President and CEO. \u201cWe applaud Senator Booker for introducing the landmark Industrial Agriculture Accountability Act, which would provide new protections for farmed animals and hold corporations accountable for the true costs of factory farming.\u201d\n\n\"When natural disasters like bird flu and extreme weather strike, industrial livestock operations incur huge losses. These losses are too often shouldered by contract farmers, rural communities, and government,\u201d said Craig Watts, former contract poultry grower and field team operations director, Socially Responsible Agriculture Project. \u201cIt\u2019s time we stop allowing multibillion-dollar corporations to externalize the cost of their high-risk operations. The Industrial Agriculture Accountability Act shifts the burden to where it belongs: the backs of Big Agribusiness.\"\n\n\u201cSince its inception almost 100 years ago, our country\u2019s Farm Bill has become a tool that the industrial animal agriculture industry uses to do little else than maximize its profit\u2014to the detriment of consumers, the environment, food system workers, farmers, and farmed animals,\u201d said Leah Garc\u00e9s, President and CEO, Mercy For Animals. \u201cAs a result, we find ourselves at a pivotal moment in U.S. food system reform: The meat industry has created deep-seated problems that exploit and harm the most vulnerable. It must be the industry\u2019s responsibility to solve these problems. The IAA recognizes this responsibility and affords the industry an opportunity to begin to right these wrongs.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis bill (The Industrial Agriculture Accountability Act and the establishment of the Office of High-Risk AFO Disaster Mitigation and Enforcement) promises much-needed improvements throughout the meat & livestock supply chain, from food safety to animal welfare and labor standards,\u201d said Devin Cornia, Executive Director, Northeast Organic Farming Association of New Jersey. \u201cFurther, it will ensure that more funding is made available to family farms versus industrial corporate agribusiness, improving regional and local food system resiliency.\u201d\n\nThe full text of the bill can be found here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:24:37Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-norcross-lead-colleagues-in-urging-fhwa-to-explain-decision-to-block-njdots-roadway-safety-messages", "Booker, Norcross Lead Colleagues in Urging FHWA to Explain Decision to Block NJDOT\u2019s Roadway Safety Messages", "2022-11-22", "2022", "2022-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "NEWARK, N.J. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.) and U.S. Representative Donald Norcross (D-N.J.-01), along with U.S. Senator Bob Menendez (D-N.J.) and U.S. Representatives Bill Pascrell (D-N.J.-09), Donald Payne Jr. (D-N.J.-10), Jeff Van Drew (R-N.J.-02), Andy Kim (D-N.J.-03), Tom Malinowski (D-N.J.-07), Bonnie Watson Coleman (D-N.J.-12), Mikie Sherrill (D-N.J.-11), Frank Pallone (D-N.J.-06), and Josh Gottheimer (D-N.J.-05), expressed concerns to the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) over its decision to block the New Jersey Department of Transportation\u2019s (NJDOT) creative, attention-grabbing roadway safety messages.\n\n\u201cLast month, NJDOT began a campaign utilizing humor and New Jersey culture to raise awareness around safety. These quintessential Garden State messages have had a significant positive reception around the state, and have helped to alert in-state and out-of-state motorists to take reasonable precautions,\u201d wrote Senator Booker and colleagues in a letter to FHWA Acting Administrator Stephanie Pollack. \u201cGiven the positive reception around these recent safety efforts in New Jersey, I am very concerned to have learned of FHWA\u2019s decision to block the use of these signs earlier this week without providing NJDOT with a comprehensive, data-driven justification for the decision. I understand that FHWA requires roadway signs to command the attention of the motorist and convey a simple clear meaning. The recent campaign in New Jersey to deliver creative, short, humorous, and attention-grabbing messages seems to be an absolutely ideal way to raise awareness around safety and potentially save lives.\u201d\n\nIn the letter, the members requested the FHWA:\n\nExplain the analysis that went into FHWA\u2019s decision to block NJDOT\u2019s safety campaign.\n\nProvide any data or evidence collected over the last several weeks that informed FHWA\u2019s decision.\n\nProvide any insight into why FHWA has chosen to block New Jersey\u2019s specific approach to alerting motorists while other states have also utilized comparable safety campaigns.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:24:37Z"], ["https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-watson-coleman-statement-on-majority-leader-steny-hoyer-announcement", "Rep. Watson Coleman Statement on Majority Leader Steny Hoyer Announcement", "2022-11-18", "2022", "2022-11", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Bonnie Watson Coleman", "W000822", "watsoncoleman.house.gov", "watsoncoleman", "https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. (November 18, 2022) \u2014 Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) issued the following statement on House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer\u2019s decision to step down from House Democratic leadership while continuing to serve in Congress:\n\n\u201cMajority Leader Hoyer\u2019s steadfast commitment to Democratic ideals and values is truly admirable. Since 2007, Leader Hoyer has played an instrumental role in guiding the House Democratic Caucus, both as Majority Leader and Minority Whip.\n\n\u201cHoyer\u2019s leadership helped Democrats secure passage of several historic pieces of legislation, including the Affordable Care Act, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, the American Rescue Plan, and the Inflation Reduction Act.\n\n\"While I am grateful that Hoyer will continue to serve his district, including through work on the Appropriations Committee, his unwavering guidance will be missed. I commend his decision to pass the torch to the next generation of House Democratic leaders.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:24:37Z"], ["https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-watson-coleman-statement-on-majority-whip-jim-clyburn-announcement", "Rep. Watson Coleman Statement on Majority Whip Jim Clyburn Announcement", "2022-11-18", "2022", "2022-11", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Bonnie Watson Coleman", "W000822", "watsoncoleman.house.gov", "watsoncoleman", "https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. (November 18, 2022) \u2014 Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) issued the following statement on House Majority Whip Jim Clyburn\u2019s decision to step down from his current position as House Majority Whip while continuing to serve in Democratic leadership:\n\n\u201cLike Speaker Pelosi, Majority Whip Clyburn has led a barrier-breaking, truly inspirational career in public service. Upon his first election to Congress, Clyburn became the first Black person to represent South Carolina since Reconstruction.\n\n\u201cAs Majority Whip, Clyburn fostered unity in our Caucus, helping House Democrats overcome narrow majorities to pass crucial components of our legislative agenda. Many of our recent legislative victories, including the historic Inflation Reduction Act, wouldn\u2019t have been possible without him.\n\n\u201cBy taking a step back from his current leadership role, Clyburn will play a key part in building the next generation of House Democratic leaders. I commend his decision to pass the torch and look forward to serving alongside him in the next Congress.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:24:37Z"], ["https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=AA2782CA-D2EC-43E5-8931-3FA519D6E8E8", "Rep. Norcross Keeps Pressure on Amazon Over Dangerous Warehouses at Workplace Safety Hearing", "2022-11-17", "2022", "2022-11", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Donald Norcross", "N000188", "norcross.house.gov", "norcross", "https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases", "page_html", "Today, U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) kept the pressure on Amazon at the Subcommittee on Workforce Protections hearing on the unsafe and untenable conditions warehouse workers face. Three Amazon warehouse workers died in New Jersey between July and August 2022.\n\n\u201cAmazon says it is \u2018Earth\u2019s Safest Place to Work,\u2019 but in reality, it has one of the highest serious injury rates in the country,\u201d said Congressman Norcross. \u201cAmazon can improve workplace safety. It has modern facilities with the latest technology. All warehouse workers should go home the same way they went to work: safe and unharmed.\u201d\n\n\u201cWe cannot have a serious conversation about worker safety in the warehouse industry without focusing on the enormous toll of serious injury and disability that threatens hundreds of thousands of Amazon warehouse workers every single day,\u201d said Eric Frumin, the health and safety director for the Strategic Organizing Center.\n\n\u201cPerhaps not everyone can understand what it\u2019s like for families like these to suffer a loss due to health and safety risks at their job being ignored. Unfortunately, I can\u2026 I received a call that my brother Edilberto was at the hospital with a very, very dangerous injury in his brain. He died four days later,\u201d said Janeth Caicedo, whose brother Edilberto was killed in a warehouse accident while working for an unlicensed temp agency in New Jersey.\n\n\u201cA core issue of warehousing is pace of work. Workers are pushed to move as quickly as possible in these workplaces, in order to keep up with the rapid pace of delivery necessary to keep the supply chain thin and running smoothly\u2026 When you order a product to arrive in 24 or 48 hours, there is no magic robot or process that makes that happen. The product moves fast because people run,\u201d said Sheheryar Kaoosji, the executive director of the Warehouse Workers Resource Center.\n\n\u201cSerious injuries increase when there aren\u2019t proper workplace protections. Employers must implement common-sense safety standards. Today\u2019s hearing is an important opportunity to demand that companies like Amazon take responsibility for the safety of their employees. The Teamsters thank Chairman Scott and Chairwoman Adams, as well as Congressman Norcross, for their efforts to advocate for the needs of workers on the job,\u201d said Sean M. O\u2019Brien, the general president of the Teamsters.\n\n\u201cRegulations protecting workers in the warehousing industry have lagged far behind its rapid growth. The rise of e-commerce has forever changed the retail sector. Just because the work has changed doesn\u2019t mean workers shouldn\u2019t be protected. We will continue to fight to ensure workers and their health and safety are protected, and we thank Congressman Donald Norcross for convening this critical panel today,\" said Stuart Appelbaum, the president of the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union (RWDSU).\n\nCongressman Norcross has been an outspoken critic of dangerous workplaces, including Amazon warehouses. As an electrician by trade who spent years working in the construction industry, he has seen the human cost of unsafe workplaces firsthand.\n\nTimeline of Congressman Norcross\u2019s Leadership on Amazon Warehouse Safety:", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-03-30T11:08:25Z"], ["https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-watson-coleman-statement-on-speaker-nancy-pelosi-announcement", "Rep. Watson Coleman Statement on Speaker Nancy Pelosi Announcement", "2022-11-17", "2022", "2022-11", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Bonnie Watson Coleman", "W000822", "watsoncoleman.house.gov", "watsoncoleman", "https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) issued the following statement on Speaker Nancy Pelosi\u2019s decision to pass the torch to a new generation of House Democratic leadership:\n\n\u201cSpeaker Pelosi\u2019s career in public service has been one of firsts, from serving as the first female Speaker of the House to becoming the first woman to reclaim the gavel after serving as leader of the Democratic minority. She spearheaded the passage of the first significant regulation of our financial system since the Great Depression, the first major investment in affordable health care since the 1960s, and most recently, the single largest climate investment in our nation\u2019s history.\n\n\u201cThis Congress, Democratic leadership faced a series of challenges the likes of which our nation has never seen. In just two years, Speaker Pelosi led our Caucus to pass historic investments in working families, including the American Rescue Plan, the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, and the Inflation Reduction Act. She did this with only a narrow majority, all while facing down a global pandemic, the subsequent economic hardships, and a wave of anti-democratic sentiment that culminated in a violent insurrection at the Capitol.\n\n\u201cFor two decades, Speaker Pelosi has overcome obstacles to ensure that House Democrats deliver for the people. While her grace, presence, and guidance will be missed, I am grateful that she will continue serving the people of California\u2019s 12th District and serve as a mentor for the next generation of House Democratic leadership.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:24:37Z"], ["https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/reps-watson-coleman-mfume-introduce-new-pathways-act-to-aide-reentry-and-reduce-recidivism", "Reps Watson Coleman, Mfume Introduce New Pathways Act to Aid Reentry and Reduce Recidivism", "2022-11-17", "2022", "2022-11", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Bonnie Watson Coleman", "W000822", "watsoncoleman.house.gov", "watsoncoleman", "https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) and Congressman Kweisi Mfume (MD-07) introduced the New Pathways Act. This legislation would help formerly incarcerated Americans re-enter society by requiring the Bureau of Prisons to help these individuals obtain government-issued identification.\n\nMore than 600,000 Americans are released from prison each year and upon release face significant barriers to reentry. Among these barriers is the need for a government ID, which is a requirement for renting an apartment, setting up a bank account, registering to vote, and more.\n\n\u201cOur criminal justice system as it exists now seemingly encourages recidivism. When incarcerated people are released, they are left on their own to create new lives for themselves while simultaneously facing obstacles that are almost insurmountable. Without the resources necessary to overcome these obstacles, many newly released Americans remain stuck in a cycle of recidivism,\u201d said Congresswoman Watson Coleman. \u201cThe federal government must do more to support recently released individuals, and assisting them in the process of obtaining identification is a crucial first step. By passing the New Pathways Act, we can reduce the number of repeat offenders and bring us one step closer to ending mass incarceration. I\u2019m proud to have introduced this legislation and urge my colleagues in Congress to support it.\u201d\n\n\u201cIf we are serious about addressing inequality in the United States, then we must take a hard look at the criminal justice system and offer comprehensive solutions. Formerly incarcerated individuals unmistakably face barriers to successfully re-entering our communities after serving their time,\u201d said Congressman Kweisi Mfume. \u201cThe New Pathways Act is a necessary step towards reentry reform and will help formerly incarcerated individuals obtain the resources they need to become productive community members, as is the intended outcome of any fair and equitable criminal justice system.\u201d\n\nThe New Pathways Act mandates that the BOP take steps to obtain for formerly incarcerated citizens a Social Security card and a proof-of-citizenship document, such as a passport. For non-citizens, the bill requires the BOP to help the individual obtain either proof of lawful residence or an employment authorization document.\n\nThe New Pathways Act is sponsored in the Senate by Sen. Cory Booker (D-NJ). It has been endorsed by Families Against Mandatory Minimums, the Center or Law and Social Policy, Justice Action Network, JustLeadershipUSA, Campaign for Youth Justice, The Sentencing project, the Interfaith Action for Human Rights, National Crittenden, and the Coalition for Juvenile Justice.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:24:37Z"], ["https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/watson-coleman-statement-on-passing-of-former-new-jersey-first-lady-lucinda-florio", "Watson Coleman Statement on Passing of Former New Jersey First Lady Lucinda Florio", "2022-11-17", "2022", "2022-11", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Bonnie Watson Coleman", "W000822", "watsoncoleman.house.gov", "watsoncoleman", "https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. (November 17, 2022) \u2014 Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) issued the following statement on the passing of Lucinda Florio, wife of the late former Congressman and New Jersey Governor Jim Florio:\n\n\u201cI am saddened to hear that Lucinda Florio has passed away.\n\n\u201cAs New Jersey\u2019s First Lady, Lucinda built upon her experience as a public school teacher to advocate for children\u2019s literacy. Her vision of a state where every child has access to quality education is one I admire to this day.\n\n\u201cNew Jersey has lost a selfless advocate and leader. My prayers are with the Florio family during this difficult time.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:24:37Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-paul-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-promote-research-and-access-to-potential-life-saving-drugs", "Booker, Paul Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Promote Research and Access to Potential Life Saving Drugs", "2022-11-17", "2022", "2022-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.) and U.S. Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) introduced the Breakthrough Therapies Act, legislation that would enable the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) to make the findings necessary to transfer breakthrough therapies involving Schedule I substances such as MDMA and psilocybin from Schedule I to Schedule II, which could help facilitate a phased roll-out of these potentially lifesaving therapies via FDA-approved Expanded Access pilot programs. Additionally, the bill would remove burdensome federal regulations that impede research and development of drugs that may be inappropriately listed in Schedule I despite their potential to save many lives.\n\nIn recent years, two substances currently classified as Schedule I drugs under the Controlled Substances Act\u2014MDMA and psilocybin\u2014have shown exceptional promise in treating an array of mental health conditions, including treatment-resistant suicidal depression, anxiety, PTSD, and substance use disorders. The initial research has been so promising that the FDA has designated both MDMA- and psilocybin-assisted therapies as \u201cbreakthrough therapies,\u201d meaning that they demonstrate substantial improvement over any currently available treatments.\n\n\u201cRecent studies suggest that some Schedule I substances such as MDMA and psilocybin could represent an enormous advancement for the treatment of severe post-traumatic stress disorder, depression and addiction,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cUnfortunately, regulatory red tape and a series of bureaucratic hurdles involved in studying Schedule I substances impedes critical research on these and other promising Schedule I compounds. This bill reduces these unreasonably burdensome rules and regulations that delay or prevent researchers from studying \u2013 and patients from accessing \u2013 this entire class of potential medicines.\u201d\n\n\u201cI\u2019m proud to co-lead this legislation with Sen. Booker that would streamline the registration process for breakthrough therapies currently restricted by outdated drug classifications,\u201d said Senator Paul. \u201cThis bill will make it easier for researchers to conduct studies that can lead to breakthrough therapies to treat patients battling serious and life-threatening conditions.\u201d\n\n\"We urge Congress to swiftly pass the Breakthrough Therapies Act, which responsibly reduces the barriers to research and limited access of potentially life-saving treatments like MDMA- and psilocybin-assisted therapy,\u201d said Martin R. Steele, a retired Lieutenant General in the United States Marine Corps., Chief Executive Officer of Reason for Hope, and head of the recently formed Veteran Mental Health Leadership Coalition. \u201cVeterans should not be forced (nor should anyone else) to leave the country - at great expense - to access breakthrough therapies that can be safely provided and further studied in real-world settings here at home.\"\n\n\u201cWe believe the Breakthrough Therapies Act is the tip of the spear in our fight to ensure that Special Operations Veterans have access to the most advanced and effective medical treatments in the world,\u201d said Daniel Elkins, Special Operations Association of America Founder and Member of the Moral Compass Federation. \u201cThe Breakthrough Therapies Act will ensure Special Operations Forces receive the care they deserve from the country they fought for.\u201d\n\nThe text of the bill can be found here.\n\nReason for Hope and the Veteran Mental Health Leadership Coalition\u2019s letter can be found here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:24:37Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-whitehouse-lead-colleagues-in-urging-hhs-and-nih-to-extend-humane-care-handling-standards-to-cephalopods", "Booker, Whitehouse Lead Colleagues in Urging HHS and NIH to Extend Humane Care Handling Standards to Cephalopods", "2022-11-17", "2022", "2022-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.) and U.S. Senator Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.) urged the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to ensure that cephalopods, such as octopuses and squids, are afforded basic humane handling and care standards when they are used in NIH laboratory experiments.\n\n\u201cCephalopods are increasingly being used in taxpayer-funded laboratory research across the country,\u201d wrote Senators Booker and Whitehouse in a letter to HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra and NIH Acting Director Lawrence Tabak. \u201cHowever, because they are currently not considered \u201canimals\u201d under the Public Health Service Policy, these incredibly intelligent creatures are not assured of basic humane treatment with no avenue for accountability over the justification of their use, the details of their use--such as methods of anesthesia or euthanasia--and other important research considerations.\u201d\n\nThe Senators urged HHS and NIH to update the definition of \u201canimal\u201d to include cephalopods.\n\n\u201cA wealth of evidence from recent research demonstrates that cephalopods stand out from other invertebrates in terms of their intelligence and capacity for pain, two criteria historically used to justify humane treatment requirements in research,\u201d the Senators continued. \u201cThe standards of care for these animals have changed, and the Public Health Service Policy on Humane Care and Use of Laboratory Animals should be updated accordingly.\u201d\n\nThe Senators also urged HHS and NIH to update the Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals to reflect proper care and handling of cephalopods in accordance with the scientific, consensus-based \u201cGuidelines for Care and Welfare of Cephalopods in Research\u201d.\n\n\"Backbone or not, cephalopods are animals,\" said Catharine E. Krebs, PhD, medical research specialist with the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine. \"It's time to close the gap in policy that exempts these valuable, intelligent creatures from basic protections already afforded to vertebrates used in research. The Physicians Committee thanks Senators Booker and Whitehouse for leading the call to protect these animals.\u201d\n\nThe letter was cosigned by Senators Ron Wyden (D-OR) and Brian Schatz (D-HI).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:24:37Z"], ["https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/watson-coleman-one-year-later-democrats-infrastructure-law-is-delivering-for-new-jerseyans", "Watson Coleman: One Year Later, Democrats\u2019 Infrastructure Law is Delivering for New Jerseyans", "2022-11-15", "2022", "2022-11", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Bonnie Watson Coleman", "W000822", "watsoncoleman.house.gov", "watsoncoleman", "https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, marking the first anniversary of Democrats\u2019 landmark Infrastructure Law, Rep. Watson Coleman highlighted the historic federal investments that are already creating good-paying jobs in New Jersey communities.\n\n\u201cOne year ago today, President Biden and the Democratic Congress delivered a once-in-a-generation investment to create millions of good-paying jobs repairing, rebuilding and revitalizing our communities,\u201d said Rep. Watson Coleman. \u201cDemocrats\u2019 Infrastructure Law is already putting shovels in the ground and New Jerseyans to work in good-paying jobs \u2014 fixing roads, upgrading public transit, slashing commute times, cleaning up pollution and more. As New Jerseyans mark the extraordinary progress of the last year, I remain committed to working with the Biden Administration to ensure these investments continue to reach our communities as quickly as possible.\u201d\n\nDecades of underinvestment have left our communities in urgent need of repair and modernization.\n\nThe Infrastructure Law is already making progress on this backlog, delivering federal funds for a range of vital projects in New Jersey, including:\n\n$3.2 billion to roads, bridges, roadway safety and other major projects.\n\n$100 million to ensure high-speed internet coverage across the state.\n\n$168 million to provide clean and safe water and improve water infrastructure.\n\n$833 million to improve public transportation in 2022 alone with another $3.6 billion over the next 5 years.\n\n$355.8 million has already been allocated for infrastructure resilience against climate change and extreme weather events.\n\n$5.5 million to date has been allocated for cleaning up Superfund and brownfield sites.\n\nA full summary of the Infrastructure Law\u2019s investments in New Jersey is available here.\n\n\u201cDemocrats\u2019 Infrastructure Law represents a massive leap forward in our fight to put People Over Politics,\u201d continued Rep. Watson Coleman. \u201cWe remain laser-focused on our fight to build on that progress \u2014 lowering costs, creating better-paying jobs and building safer communities and working for the people.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:24:37Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-castro-jayapal-lead-83-members-calling-on-biden-administration-to-remove-barriers-to-affordable-health-care-for-daca-recipients", "Booker, Castro, Jayapal Lead 83 Members Calling on Biden Administration to Remove Barriers to Affordable Health Care for DACA Recipients", "2022-11-15", "2022", "2022-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.), along with U.S. Representatives Joaquin Castro (D-TX-20) and Pramila Jayapal (D-WA-07), led 83 colleagues in a letter urging the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to remove barriers that prevent Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients from accessing affordable health insurance through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) marketplace and the Children\u2019s Health Insurance Program.\n\n\u201c[Current] regulation excludes a significant pool of young, healthy adults\u2014the exact type of participants that Congress sought to encourage to secure and purchase health insurance under the ACA,\u201d the members wrote. \u201cThese barriers to health coverage force many individuals and families to go without the health care they need, including essential preventive services and life-saving treatments. They also exacerbate existing health inequities that all immigrant communities face and especially immigrants of color. Moreover, the current regulation leads to worse health outcomes for DACA recipients and their families by foreclosing access to health care, including unsubsidized purchases on ACA health insurance marketplace. We strongly encourage HHS to honor our country\u2019s promise of full integration and support of DACA recipients, including access to affordable health care through the ACA by rescinding this regulation. We anticipate your response within 30 days, and we thank you for your attention and prompt response.\u201d\n\nUnder current federal regulations, DACA recipients cannot obtain comprehensive health care coverage under Medicaid or CHIP, even in states that have opted to cover lawfully present children and pregnant people. DACA recipients also cannot receive federal premium tax credits to make private health insurance affordable in the ACA marketplace or purchase marketplace health insurance at full cost using their own funds.\n\nThe letter is supported by 356 organizations, including the Center for Law and Social Policy National Immigration Law Center, United We Dream, Unidos US, American Academy of Pediatrics, American Federation of Teachers, Catholic Health Association, Move On, Planned Parenthood, SEIU and Sojourners. The complete list of supporting organizations can be found here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:24:37Z"], ["https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-applauds-biden-administration-s-methane-announcement", "Pallone Applauds Biden Administration\u2019s Methane Announcement", "2022-11-11", "2022", "2022-11", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone, Jr.", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", "pallone", "https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt \u2013 Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ) released the following statement today after the Biden Administration announced a new Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) supplemental proposal to curb methane emissions from oil and gas sources, as well as an update to the U.S. Methane Emissions Reduction Action Plan:\n\n\"Methane is one of the most dangerous and potent greenhouse gases, responsible for one-third of the warming we contend with today. I applaud the Biden Administration for tackling that challenge head on and proposing stronger and more comprehensive standards to slash methane pollution from the oil and gas sector. By capturing more sources of methane, expanding new monitoring techniques and technologies, and addressing longstanding challenges like abandoned and unplugged wells, the Biden EPA is both safeguarding Americans' right to clean air and reclaiming our mantle as a global climate leader.\n\n\"I'm also thrilled that the Updated U.S. Methane Emissions Reduction Action Plan now includes key resources and strategies made possible by the historic climate investments Congress made in the Inflation Reduction Act. From the Methane Emissions Reduction Program to the Advanced Industrial Facilities Deployment Program, I am proud that this legislation added so many critical new tools to our collective toolbox. I'm even prouder that, taken together with the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, these unprecedented climate achievements have put us on track to meet our aggressive climate goals.\n\n\"Meeting this moment demands a comprehensive, government-wide approach to slashing methane pollution and I'm happy to stand with the President as we achieve exactly that. I look forward to working with the Biden Administration, my colleagues, and stakeholders to ensure EPA finalizes a strong rule and that the United States leads the way to a clean, sustainable future.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:24:37Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/11/11/2022/booker-releases-resource-handbook-for-new-jersey-veterans", "Booker Releases Resource Handbook for New Jersey Veterans", "2022-11-11", "2022", "2022-11", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "NEWARK, N.J. \u2014 Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.) released his annual Veterans Handbook\u2014a comprehensive resource guide for New Jersey veterans and their families. The handbook, accessible on Booker\u2019s website here, includes information on health benefits, crisis support services, federal and state education programs, and employment resources. The Veterans Handbook also includes information on the PACT Act of 2022, a new law signed by President Biden to significantly expand VA benefits for veterans who were exposed to burn pits, Agent Orange, and other toxic substances while they were serving our country in the military.\n\n\u201cAmerica\u2019s veterans have helped to ensure that all Americans can enjoy the benefits of freedom that allow them to reach their fullest potential. We owe them and their families an immeasurable debt we can never repay,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cTo help commemorate Veterans Day, I am proud to release this handbook that provides New Jersey\u2019s 350,000 veterans and their families information on accessing critical services, from healthcare benefits and employment programs, to the benefits and services stemming from the PACT Act.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:24:37Z"], ["https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=28B06A3C-7B3E-4CCA-85E5-318DEBE1E97E", "Rep. Norcross Helps Camden County Law Enforcement Secure $200K to Support Community Policing Initiatives", "2022-11-09", "2022", "2022-11", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Donald Norcross", "N000188", "norcross.house.gov", "norcross", "https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases", "page_html", "Today, U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) announced that Camden County will receive $201,480 in federal funding from the Department of Justice (DOJ) to fund local community policing initiatives in South Jersey. Camden County\u2019s community policing model has contributed to a dramatic decrease in crime over the past decade. The grant will provide local law enforcement with resources to continue protecting families and building trust in the communities they serve.\n\n\u201cCamden City has become a leader in community policing and seen crime rates plummet as a result,\u201d said Congressman Norcross. \u201cThis federal allows Camden County law enforcement to maintain and expand innovative evidence-based strategies to make South Jersey a safer place for families. I\u2019ll continue working in Congress to ensure our first responders have the resources they need to protect and serve.\u201d\n\n\u201cSince we began focusing on community policing back in 2014, we\u2019ve seen a remarkable transformation here in Camden City as far as crime and quality of life goes,\u201d said Camden County Police Chief Gabriel Rodriguez. \u201cIt\u2019s crucial for us to have the necessary tools to continue this progress and I commend Congressman Norcross for his tireless efforts in Washington to ultimately benefit our residents and our community.\u201d\n\nThe DOJ\u2019s Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program allows for local governments to support a broad range of activities to prevent and control crime based on their own state and local needs. The grant helps purchase of vital resources, including technical assistance, training, personnel, equipment, supplies, contractual support, and information systems for criminal justice or civil proceedings.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-03-30T11:08:25Z"], ["https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-joins-other-congressional-leaders-attending-un-climate-conference-cop27", "Pallone Joins Other Congressional Leaders in Attending U.N. Climate Conference COP27 in Egypt", "2022-11-09", "2022", "2022-11", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone, Jr.", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", "pallone", "https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, D.C. \u2013 Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ) released the following statement today as he joins a Congressional Delegation trip to Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt, for the 27th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, known as COP27:\n\n\"We are attending COP27 to demonstrate the United States' continued commitment to standing with our global partners in the fight against climate change and accelerate the transition to a stronger, more equitable and sustainable future. Enactment of the historic Inflation Reduction Act is a testament to that commitment. This law made the single-largest investment in climate action in American history, driving cuts in methane pollution, establishing a national Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund, and supporting the deployment of clean energy technologies across every sector of the economy. We are proud that this law, in conjunction with the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and domestic climate programs, has put us on track to meet the climate targets set forth in the Paris Agreement.\n\n\"These achievements are unprecedented, yet we know more action will be needed to achieve a clean future for us all. Solving this global problem requires global cooperation, and we will not falter in our commitments or in our determination to tackle the climate crisis head-on.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:24:37Z"], ["https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-announces-new-jersey-will-receive-over-183-million-lower-home-energy", "Pallone Announces New Jersey Will Receive Over $183 Million To Lower Home Energy Costs and Improve Energy Efficiency", "2022-11-03", "2022", "2022-11", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone, Jr.", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", "pallone", "https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2013 Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) today applauded the $183,147,420New Jersey will receive to help families improve home energy efficiency. The funding comes from provisions in the Inflation Reduction Act that Pallone included as Chairman of the Energy and Commerce Committee.\n\nThe funding can be used for installation of energy efficient equipment, including electric appliances and heat pumps that will lower energy costs for American families. According to the Department of Energy, more information about how consumers can apply for rebates is expected to be available in the spring, and rebates will be available to the public later in the year.\n\n\"This announcement is a win-win for consumers as we work to lower costs for families and transition to clean energy. This funding will help families across New Jersey upgrade appliances in their homes that will not only save them money on their energy bills, but also reduce our dependence on fossil fuels,\" Pallone said. \"I'm glad to see federal dollars help families in New Jersey lower costs.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:24:37Z"], ["https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-new-jersey-will-receive-over-153-million-help-families-lower-energy", "Pallone: New Jersey Will Receive Over $153 Million To Help Families Lower Energy Bills", "2022-11-02", "2022", "2022-11", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone, Jr.", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", "pallone", "https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Washington, DC \u2013 Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) today applauded the additional $153,308,019 New Jersey will receive for home energy assistance. The state has received a total of $455,659,467 for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) that helps families struggling with the costs of home energy bills. The funding comes from a government spending bill and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law that Pallone included as Chairman of the Energy and Commerce Committee.\n\n\"As cold weather approaches, this funding will help families across New Jersey keep up with their energy bills. This comes as much-needed relief for the millions of families struggling to make ends meet,\" Pallone said. \"I'm glad to see that we're still delivering federal dollars to New Jersey as we continue to lower costs for hardworking families.\"\n\nLIHEAP helps eligible households pay home heating and cooling bills, prevent energy shutoffs, restore services, make minor energy-related home repairs, and weatherize homes to make them more energy efficient.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:24:37Z"], ["https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-vows-continue-fighting-families-devastated-superstorm-sandy-10th", "Pallone Vows to Continue Fighting for Families Devastated by Superstorm Sandy on 10th Anniversary of Storm", "2022-10-28", "2022", "2022-10", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone, Jr.", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", "pallone", "https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "Long Branch, NJ \u2013 Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) today vowed to keep fighting for families devastated by Superstorm Sandy ten years ago. Pallone joined Governor Murphy for a tour of the Port Monmouth flood control project today in Monmouth County. Pallone secured $110 million in a federal spending bill for the project after Superstorm Sandy. He has also introduced legislation to reform the National Flood Insurance Program, delivered federal funding to strengthen infrastructure along the Jersey Shore, and secured forgiveness of clawbacks in a federal House spending bill.\n\n\"Ten years ago, Superstorm Sandy devastated our state. Since then, I've fought for federal funding to make sure our coastal communities are better protected from the next major storm and flooding events. I also fought for families who were decimated by the storm by securing in a House spending bill forgiveness of millions of dollars they owe through no fault of their own,\" Pallone said. \"We've come a long way, but there's still work to do. In Congress, I'm fighting for a better flood insurance program that prevents insurance companies and contractors from taking advantage of homeowners. I'll continue to fight for New Jerseyans and make sure our state is protected from major weather events.\"\n\nBelow is a summary of Pallone's advocacy for victims of Superstorm Sandy and the federal infrastructure funding he secured:\n\nClawback Forgiveness\n\nPallone worked with the New Jersey Congressional delegation to secure a provision to waive federal recoupment efforts for Superstorm Sandy victims in a federal spending bill. It passed the House in July 2022. The provision grants the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development the authority to waive the requirement for New Jersey homeowners to pay back federal disaster relief aid.\n\nRecoupment efforts known as \"clawbacks\" have blindsided homeowners because many New Jersey residents applied for loans and benefits offered by various federal programs at the recommendation of the government. The spending bill would indefinitely delay the federal government's recoupments efforts - affecting 1,813 households in New Jersey that currently owe $73 million. Among those homeowners, 882 households would be eligible for full forgiveness - worth over $28 million - subject to Secretary approval.\n\nSecured Community Disaster Loans Forgiveness\n\nPallone also worked with New Jersey Congressional delegation to secure forgiveness of outstanding balances of Community Disaster Loans (CDLs) made to municipalities in New Jersey to help them recover from Superstorm Sandy. They secured the loan forgiveness in a government operations bill that the House passed and President Biden signed in 2021. At that time, 18 New Jersey municipalities owed more than $25 million worth of Community Disaster Loans that were issued after the storm.\n\nFunding for Flood Control Projects\n\nPallone secured $110 million in a federal spending bill for the Port Monmouth Flood Protection Project. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has already completed the construction of a 40-ft wide flood gate and pumping station across Pews Creek and a floodwall on Port Monmouth Road. The next phase of the project will include the construction of a floodwall and levee system along Route 36 to Creek Road to Broadway as well as the construction of an additional floodwall, levee system, and pumping station along Main Street. The project is expected to be completed by July 2024.\n\nPallone also secured funding for a flood control project in Union Beach that will begin this fall. The funding was authorized in the Water Resources Development Act of 2007. Pallone fought for subsequent funding in the Disaster Relief Appropriations Act of 2013. In July, Pallone announced that the first contract was awarded for $50 million. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will use the funding for sand replenishment and to construct dunes, groins, and pedestrian and automobile crosswalks. The next phase of the project will include interior flood control structures, including a floodgate.\n\nLegislation to Reform the National Flood Insurance Program", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:20:33Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-statement-condemning-anti-hinduism", "Booker Statement Condemning Anti-Hinduism", "2022-10-26", "2022", "2022-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "Newark, NJ \u2013 Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) issued the following statement:\n\n\u201cOn this final day of Diwali, may we all come together in celebration. This joyful holiday is a beautiful reminder of the victory of light over darkness and good over evil.\n\n\u201cHindu Americans add to New Jersey\u2019s richness and vibrancy, and I condemn anti-Hindu statements and actions that seek to separate and divide us. We must stand for inclusivity and diversity, and fight all forms of bigotry, extremism, and hatred.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:20:33Z"], ["https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/statement-on-cpc-letter-regarding-ukraine", "Statement on CPC Letter Regarding Ukraine", "2022-10-25", "2022", "2022-10", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Bonnie Watson Coleman", "W000822", "watsoncoleman.house.gov", "watsoncoleman", "https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Congresswoman Watson Coleman released the following statement after a Congressional Progressive Caucus letter regarding diplomatic efforts in Ukraine was sent and then retracted by the CPC:\n\n\u201cI unequivocally affirm my support for Ukraine\u2019s right to sovereignty and to defend itself against Putin\u2019s unlawful, unjust invasion. Rights of security and resistance of oppression are fundamental human rights. I have consistently voted to support aid to Ukraine and the letter I originally signed does not indicate a change in that support; in fact, it reaffirms it.\n\n\u201cWhile the timing of the release of the letter was unfortunate and outside my control, in no way should the letter be conflated with recent statements by Congressional Republicans threatening to end aid to Ukraine. I want to be clear that I support the President when he says, \u201cnothing about Ukraine without Ukraine.\u201d That means no peace agreement on terms without Ukraine\u2019s support. I\u2019ve consistently held the position \u2013 as this letter reiterated \u2013 that, unlike Congressional Republicans, we should continue to provide economic and military aid for Ukraine while also advocating diplomacy when it appears a diplomatic solution is possible as all modern wars end in peace agreements.\n\n\u201cThe atrocities committed by President Putin against Ukrainian civilians are horrific should be met with condemnation and resistance. The War in Ukraine has cost the lives of nearly 100,000 Ukrainians including over 30,000 civilians. Eventual diplomatic solutions should be considered alongside military and economic support for Ukraine to bring an end to the bloodshed that puts the lives of countless more civilians in jeopardy.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-06T18:34:28Z"], ["https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=FC5DA3E3-D41D-4428-B5F3-B56E28A02334", "Rep. Norcross, NJ DOT Commissioner Announce Widening of Atlantic City Expressway", "2022-10-19", "2022", "2022-10", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Donald Norcross", "N000188", "norcross.house.gov", "norcross", "https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases", "page_html", "SICKLERVILLE, NJ \u2013 Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) and New Jersey Department of Transportation Commissioner Diane Gutierrez-Scaccetti, and South Jersey Transportation Authority Chair Stephen Dougherty highlighted the positive transportation and economic impacts of the planned widening of the Atlantic City Expressway to three lanes from mile marker 31 westbound to the Route 42 terminus.\n\nThe project, which will create an estimated 2,300 jobs in the region, reduce congestion, and help to improve safety along a stretch of Route 322, one of New Jersey\u2019s deadliest highways.\n\n\u201cThis widening of the AC Expressway has been one of top infrastructure priorities for this region. We have large and growing populations here, and it makes perfect sense to have three lanes to service local residents and commuters. This project is going to bring a sigh of relief to drivers used to experiencing the peak of Jersey Shore Summer traffic,\u201d said Congressman Norcross. \u201cWith three lanes instead of two, we\u2019ll be able to keep traffic going even if one lane needs to close for maintenance or roadway incidents, and it will greatly improve the flow of traffic \u2013 meaning less congestion and a safer roadway. In addition, this project is going to create thousands of good-paying jobs in our region, which will have a powerful economic impact on our economy.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis $180 million investment in New Jersey\u2019s infrastructure will help reduce travel times, relieve congestion, increase safety, and improve coastal evacuation capacity on this highly traveled thoroughfare,\u201d said NJDOT Commissioner and SJTA Chair Diane Gutierrez-Scaccetti. \u201cI\u2019d like to thank Representative Norcross for his strong voice in Congress and Governor Murphy for his steadfast commitment to investing in New Jersey\u2019s transportation infrastructure.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe South Jersey Transportation Authority\u2019s widening project will truly enhance the patron experience along the Expressway. Once the 26 miles of east and westbound lanes are completed, the roadway will finally be expanded to three lanes its entire length,\u201d said Stephen F. Dougherty, South Jersey Transportation Authority executive director. \u201cI want to thank the Congressman for his years of advocacy on this project and for his ongoing support of the SJTA.\u201d\n\nCongressman Norcross has championed local infrastructure projects in South Jersey ranging from improving the conditions of roads and the safety of bridges to replacing lead waterpipes in schools and small businesses. He helped pass the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which is delivering $13.5 billion in federal infrastructure funding to New Jersey and is projected to create 2 million jobs per year over the next decade nationwide.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-03-30T11:08:25Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-castro-urge-usaid-to-boost-innovative-solutions-to-address-international-development-challenges", "Booker, Castro Urge USAID to Boost Innovative Solutions to Address International Development Challenges", "2022-10-19", "2022", "2022-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.) and U.S. Representative Joaquin Castro (D-TX-20) urged the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) to boost innovation through Development Innovation Ventures (DIV) and other similar programs in order to help address many of the world\u2019s biggest challenges related to international development.\n\nUSAID\u2019s DIV program provides grant funding to innovators and researchers to test new ideas and advance solutions for developing countries in various fields, including renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and health technology, while increasing the return on investment of U.S. taxpayer dollars. By allocating resources to scale up effectual milestone-based projects supported by DIV, USAID has a unique opportunity to deploy innovations that can help solve dynamic global development challenges.\n\n\u201cWith over 80 offices around the world and programs in over 100 countries, USAID is uniquely positioned to harness the very best of American innovation to source and scale effective programs that can better solve complex international development challenges,\u201d wroteSenator Booker and Representative Castroin a letter to USAID Administrator Samantha Power. \u201cWe encourage USAID to allocate sufficient funding within sector-specific Agency budgets to scale relevant and successful DIV programs.\u201d\n\n\u201cAmerica has a storied history of promoting innovation, but if we are to solve some of the biggest challenges of our time, we must do more to catalyze research and development, foster new partnerships with accountable and innovative non-traditional partners, and improve evidence-based contracting,\u201d continued Senator Booker and Representative Castro. \u201cThese kinds of investments are not only critical to improving outcomes for millions around the world, they also position the United States as a more effective partner vis-a-vis China for countries that want to make rapid progress towards achieving development goals.\u201d\n\n\u201cThe scale of our shared, global challenges is enormous. To tackle issues like climate change and a growing food crisis, we\u2019re going to need far more innovation, which includes bringing new voices to the table and finding new ways to solve problems. Senator Booker and Congressman Castro remind us that America can show global leadership through innovation \u2013 and that agencies like USAID need to play a key role,\u201d said Walter Kerr, Executive Director of Unlock Aid, a global coalition of change agents bridging the gap between innovation and global development.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:20:33Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-klobuchar-blumenthal-urge-federal-trade-commission-to-investigate-proposed-kroger-albertsons-merger", "Booker, Klobuchar, Blumenthal Urge Federal Trade Commission to Investigate Proposed Kroger-Albertsons Merger", "2022-10-18", "2022", "2022-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.) has joined Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Chairwoman of the Senate Judiciary Subcommittee on Competition Policy, Antitrust, and Consumer Rights, and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) to urge the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to investigate the proposed merger between Kroger and Albertsons, voicing concern about this transaction\u2019s potential implications for consumers.\n\n\u201cWe write to express our serious concern about the recently announced merger between Kroger and Albertsons and to ask for your assurance that this proposed deal will be carefully and thoroughly investigated by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC),\u201d wrote Senators Booker, Klobuchar, and Blumenthal in a letter to FTC Chair Lina Khan. \u201cAs food prices remain elevated, too many American families are struggling to put food on the table for their families. These issues are worse for families in areas without access to affordable, nutritious food. And across the country, more than six million American children suffer from not having enough food.\u201d\n\n\u201cAgainst that backdrop, last week the nation\u2019s two largest grocery chains, Albertsons and Kroger, announced a proposed $25 billion merger. This merger raises considerable antitrust concerns. The grocery industry is essential to daily life, and Americans need the benefits that robust competition brings, namely lower prices, higher quality, and innovation,\u201d the Senators continued.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:20:33Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-praises-usda-assistance-to-distressed-farmers", "Booker Praises USDA Assistance to Distressed Farmers", "2022-10-18", "2022", "2022-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.), a member of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry, issued the following statement on the U.S. Department of Agriculture dispersing nearly $800 million in assistance to distressed farmers:\n\n\u201cFarmers play a critical role in our economy, and many have been hit hard by recent crises like COVID-19. Thousands of farmers, including Black, Latino, and Native American farmers with USDA direct and guaranteed loans, have struggled to make ends meet and are barely holding on to their farms. Some have already lost their farms to foreclosure. That is why Congress provided resources in the Inflation Reduction Act to bring relief to these distressed farmers across our country. I applaud the USDA for working to quickly implement this much-needed relief to farmers who are most at-risk of foreclosure or losing their land. I also urge the USDA to continue providing IRA assistance to the many distressed farmers, especially Black farmers, who are still in need of immediate relief.\u201d\n\nThe nearly $800 million in assistance announced today is part of the $3.1 billion authorized under Section 22006 of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), which was signed into law by President Biden in August. This provision authorizes payments to distressed farm loan borrowers, particularly those borrowers whose agricultural operations are at financial risk.\n\nLast month, Senator Booker, along with Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), urged the USDA to rapidly implement the funding authorized under Section 22006 of the IRA. The Senators also urged the USDA to quickly implement Section 22007 of the IRA, which will provide much-needed financial assistance to Black farmers and others who have suffered discrimination through USDA\u2019s farm lending programs.\n\nSenators Booker, Warnock, and Schumer\u2019s letter to the USDA can be found here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:20:33Z"], ["https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases?ID=ECBEEFE4-AAB1-4FDE-B01C-F48A432F22DA", "Congressman Norcross Announces Over $3.2 Million to Strengthen South Jersey\u2019s Health Care Workforce", "2022-10-14", "2022", "2022-10", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Donald Norcross", "N000188", "norcross.house.gov", "norcross", "https://norcross.house.gov/press-releases", "page_html", "Today, U.S. Congressman Donald Norcross (NJ-01) announced that the?U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) will provide over $3.2 million in federal funding to help Rutgers School of Nursing\u2013Camden and Rowan School of Osteopathic Medicine (RowanSOM) train the next generation of health care workers and expand access to health care in South Jersey. Rutgers University will receive $245,872 to train and educate nurses, and RowanSOM will receive $3,000,000 to train community health workers and paraprofessionals.\n\n\u201cI\u2019m proud to see federal dollars go towards helping South Jersey students start their careers and deliver care to those who need it,\u201d said Congressman Norcross. \u201cThese grants will go a long way in strengthening our workforce and expanding access to health care in our communities. I will continue fighting for legislation in Congress that equips local health care professionals with the training and resources they need to keep South Jerseyans healthy.\u201d\n\n\u201cThis award will provide the School of Nursing\u2013Camden with crucial support as we work to augment the current and future nursing workforce. With shortages in practicing nurses and nurse educators impacting health care systems nationwide, this funding will help to ensure that Rutgers\u2013Camden can produce exceptional nurses prepared to educate the future health care workforce locally and nationally,\u201d said Dr. Marie O\u2019Toole, interim dean of Rutgers School of Nursing-Camden.\n\n\u201cAlthough individuals with substance use disorders are at higher risk for one or more chronic health conditions and experience worse outcomes, many remain disconnected from care. At the same time, community health workers help connect patients living in the community to primary care and other services, but most remain separate from the substance use treatment field. This project will explore the creation of a new community health worker and certified peer recovery specialist training program. This?combined training will prepare a workforce that can provide services that address both chronic health conditions and substance use disorders simultaneously,\u201d said Dr. Richard Jermyn, who will direct this program for the Rowan School of Osteopathic Medicine.\n\nRowanSOM\u2019s federal grant comes from HHS\u2019s Community Health Worker and Paraprofessional Training program. This federal grant aims to increase the number of community health care workers and expand access to critical care in underserved communities. Similarly, Rutgers University\u2019s $245,872 federal grant comes from the HHS\u2019s Nurse?Education?Practice Quality and Retention:?Clinical Faculty?and?Preceptor Academies program, which supports public-private partnerships that develop nurse training curriculums across the country.\n\nRead more about these programs here and here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-03-30T11:08:25Z"], ["https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-announces-new-grants-support-public-safety-and-hire-law-enforcement", "Pallone Announces New Grants to Support Public Safety and Hire Law Enforcement Officers in Middlesex and Monmouth Counties", "2022-10-14", "2022", "2022-10", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone, Jr.", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", "pallone", "https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "New Brunswick, NJ \u2013 Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) announced new federal funding to support public safety and strengthen law enforcement in Middlesex and Monmouth Counties. Perth Amboy will receive $1.25 million to hire 10 new police officers. New Brunswick will receive $250,000 to hire two police officers. The funding comes from the Department of Justice's Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) COPS Hiring Program.\n\nAdditionally, Sayreville will receive $175,000 to enhance community policing practices through trust and legitimacy building with the community. Rutgers University will receive $100,000 to recruit and retain officers. These awards are made through the COPS Office's Community Policing Development Program.\n\nThe Middletown Board of Education will also receive $491,000 from the Department's Office's School Violence Prevention Program (SVPP) to improve security at schools and on school campuses. The funding can be used to coordinate with local law enforcement, train local law enforcement officers to prevent school violence, and equipment to enhance security.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:20:33Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-warren-lead-colleagues-in-urging-the-cftc-to-pursue-stronger-oversight-of-carbon-offsets-market", "Booker, Warren Lead Colleagues in Urging the CFTC to Pursue Stronger Oversight of Carbon Offsets Market", "2022-10-14", "2022", "2022-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-N.J.) and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) led five colleagues in urging the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) to take concrete steps to implement rules governing the voluntary carbon offsets market, also referred to as carbon credits.\n\nFacing pressure to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in order to reach worldwide net-zero emissions by 2050, companies, investors, and governments have turned to a strategy of purchasing carbon offsets from organizations claiming to sequester greenhouse gasses through strategies like tree planting or installation of renewable energy. This has led to rapid growth of unregulated carbon markets that allow corporations to make claims about emission reductions and pledges to reach \u201cnet zero\u201d while actually taking little action to address the climate and environmental justice impacts of their industry.\n\n\u201cThe carbon market enables wealthy corporations and countries to continue polluting due to broad standards that ineffectively regulate what counts as an offset,\u201d wrote the Senators in a letter to CFTCChairman Rostin Behnam. \u201cCarbon offsets as they currently stand are not compatible with climate justice goals, as they enable wealthy corporations to continue emitting while using fraught tactics that prioritize their bottom line over the health and well-being of vulnerable communities.\n\n\u201cTo reduce risk to frontline communities, investors, and the planet, the CFTC should take concrete steps to implement rules governing the carbon market. These rules should include a clear definition of a carbon credit and a robust standard for auditing, and they must take into account the environmental justice risk of growth in the offset market,\u201d continued the Senators.\n\nIn the letter, the Senators urged the CFTC to:\n\nInvestigate the integrity of currently approved derivatives and their underlying carbon offsets, and develop qualifying standards for carbon offsets that effectively reduce greenhouse gas emissions and can serve as underlying commodities for approved derivatives in the future.\n\nCreate a registration framework for offsets, offset brokers, and offset registries.\n\nPursue cases of individual project fraud.\n\nDevelop a working group to study both the risk to investors associated with carbon offsets and derivatives (legal, reputational, and regulatory) and the systemic climate financial risk created by their availability and usage.\n\nThe letter was cosigned by Senators Ed Markey (D-MA), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.).", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:20:33Z"], ["https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-hosts-fireside-chat-commerce-secretary-gina-raimondo-historic", "Pallone Hosts Fireside Chat with Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo on Historic Investments in U.S. Economy", "2022-10-13", "2022", "2022-10", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone, Jr.", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", "pallone", "https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "New Brunswick, NJ \u2013Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) hosted a fireside chat today with U.S. Department of Commerce Secretary Gina M. Raimondo on the Biden Administration's historic investments in American manufacturing, innovation, and supply chains. The discussion also highlighted the progress Middlesex County has made in developing business and innovation in New Jersey, including the New Jersey Innovation and Technology Hub in New Brunswick.\n\nAs Chairman of the Energy and Commerce Committee, Pallone has been instrumental in passing legislation to bolster the economy. He helped lead efforts to pass the bipartisan CHIPS and Science Act in the House in July that invests over $52 billion to bolster semiconductor manufacturing, boost resilience in U.S. supply chains, create good-paying jobs, and lower costs for consumers. President Biden signed the bill into law in August.\n\n\"I'm proud to welcome Secretary Raimondo to New Brunswick, so she can hear about the great things Middlesex County is doing to boost our economy in New Jersey. Together with the Biden Administration, we're investing in American workers, innovation, and manufacturing,\" said Pallone. \"The CHIPS and Science Act will lower costs for consumers, create good-paying American jobs, and end our dangerous dependence on foreign manufacturers of critical goods. New Jersey has a well-known reputation for leading the nation in research and manufacturing and we're working together to continue that legacy by investing in American workers and businesses right here in our backyard.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:20:33Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-menendez-announce-449-million-in-homeland-security-federal-grants-for-new-jersey", "Booker, Menendez Announce $44.9 Million in Homeland Security Federal Grants for New Jersey", "2022-10-13", "2022", "2022-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "NEWARK, N.J. - Today, U.S. Senators Cory Booker and Bob Menendez (both D-N.J.) announced $44.9 million in Homeland Security grants as part of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security\u2019s (DHS) ongoing efforts to support state, local, tribal, and territorial partners. These grants assist states, urban areas, tribal and territorial governments, non-profit agencies, and the private sector with their preparedness efforts. Preparedness grants strengthen our nation\u2019s ability to prevent, protect against, mitigate, respond to, and recover from terrorist attacks, major disasters, and other emergencies.\n\nOf the $44.9 million, New Jersey faith-based and nonprofit organizations received $18.9 million in Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP). Through the NSGP, faith institutions throughout the community will receive support to prevent, protect against, and recover from terrorist attacks, including by installing physical security improvements, implementing emergency readiness programs, and improving community safety.\n\nSenator Booker joined Representative Tom Malinowski (D-N.J.-07), New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin, and faith leaders last week for a roundtable at Temple Sinai in Summit, N.J., to discuss the rise in threats facing the Jewish community, and the actions Congress is taking to fight antisemitism and hate crimes throughout the state.\n\n\u201cWe cannot ignore the disturbing rise in bias incidents and hate crimes, nor can we tolerate threats to any religious or cultural community,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cThese security grants will help protect communities across New Jersey against dangerous hate-filled attacks and support our state\u2019s vital infrastructure.\u201d\n\n\u201cBecause of our state\u2019s proximity to large metro areas, airports, seaports and transit hubs, New Jersey must remain vigilant and prepared to respond to any type of attack,\u201d said Senator Menendez. \u201cThis critical funding will provide our first responders and nonprofit organizations added resources to safeguard our communities and protect New Jersey residents.\u201d\n\n\u201cNo person should fear violence because of who they are or who they worship,\u201d said Representative Malinowski. \u201cThis crucial funding will bring peace of mind for thousands of residents in my district and help preserve the religious freedoms we hold dear.\u201d\n\n\u201cHate and bias have no place in our State, and we will always stand up against anti-Semitism and other forms of religious hatred. I\u2019m proud to work with Governor Murphy, Senator Booker, Senator Menendez, Congressman Malinowski, and our federal partners to ensure that our faith communities have the resources they need to remain safe. For more information on available grant funds please visit: https://bit.ly/3fRsLiR,\u201d said Attorney General Platkin.\n\n\u201cWe are very honored to host this event and be able to receive this grant. This grant helps push more opportunities to protect our members and our children. The support will go a long way towards the safety of our institution,\u201d said Cindy Homer, President of Temple Sinai.\n\nThere were 131 nonprofit and religious institutions from across the state which received a total of $18.9 million in NSGP funds.\n\nIn addition to the NSGP funding, New Jersey agencies and other institutions received millions of dollars in federal funding through three other DHS grant programs:\n\nThree New Jersey recipients\u2014Delaware River Port Authority (DRPA), New Jersey Transit, and Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ)\u2014received a total of $22.2 million from the DHS\u2019s Transit Security Grant Program (TSGP). The TSGP funding protects critical surface transportation and the traveling public from acts of terrorism and to increase the resilience of transit infrastructure.\n\nNine New Jersey institutions\u2014including the DRPA, the New Jersey State Police, and the New Jersey Department of Law and Public Safety, among others\u2014received a total of $3 million from the Port Security Grant Program (PSGP). This funding helps protect critical port infrastructure from terrorism, enhance maritime domain awareness, improve port-wide maritime security risk management, and maintain or reestablish maritime security mitigation protocols that support port recovery and resiliency capabilities.\n\nSeven New Jersey bus operators\u2014including Academy Express, LLC and Coach USA, Inc.\u2014received a total of $717,000 under the Intercity Bus Security Grant Program (IBSGP) to protect surface transportation infrastructure from acts of terrorism.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:20:33Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-unites-broad-spectrum-of-support-behind-new-legislation-requiring-scientific-and-medical-studies-to-develop-treatments-for-opioid-overdoses", "Booker Unites Broad Spectrum of Support Behind New Legislation Requiring Scientific and Medical Studies to Develop Treatments for Opioid Overdoses", "2022-10-13", "2022", "2022-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.) announced the Temporary Emergency Scheduling and Testing (TEST) of Fentanyl Analogues Act, legislation that would extend the temporary class-wide scheduling of fentanyl-related substances for two years and also require the Department of Justice to conduct a scientific and medical evaluation of these substances to encourage research so that the scientific and medical communities can study and develop treatments for fentanyl-related substances.\n\n\u201cTemporary scheduling alone is a failed experiment that hasn\u2019t curbed the devastation the opioid crisis has brought on countless families in the United States. So it isn\u2019t enough to just extend the class-wide scheduling of fentanyl analogues again and hope for a different result,\u201d said Senator Booker. \u201cTemporary scheduling has also preemptively criminalized potentially life-saving antidotes to fentanyl overdoses and impeded the medical, research, and scientific community\u2019s ability to develop the solutions we need to effectively tackle this crisis.\n\n\u201cA better approach driven by data, science, and medicine will save lives. My common-sense legislation supported by a broad spectrum of groups working to end the opioid crisis will extend temporary scheduling for two years while also requiring the same scientific evaluation of fentanyl analogues as other controlled substances, so we can understand their pharmacological effect and open up new, promising avenues to developing therapies that can combat addiction and the devastation it causes.\u201d\n\n\"Families devastated by the overdose epidemic deserve real solutions, not politicians using our tragedies to continue the failed war on drugs,\" said Gretchen Bergman, co-founder and lead organizer of Moms United To End the War on Drugs. \"As a parent of two sons who have struggled with substance use disorders, I know that lengthy prison sentences are no cure. Senator Cory Booker\u2019s TEST Act recognizes that compassionate and proven public health solutions, not criminalizing communities, are our best bet to save lives, and I am proud to support him in this effort. For the sake of the thousands of moms whose children were taken from them too soon, and for the moms who don't want their children to be another statistic, this bill is our only hope in this bleak crisis. I\u2019m so thankful for leaders like Senator Booker who are fighting for me, my children, and the countless others who are affected by the overdose epidemic.\"\n\n\u201cThe TEST Act is a smart, much-needed approach to fentanyl-related substances that would help the government identify which substances need to be prohibited or strictly controlled but also determine which substances are harmless or may even have medical benefits,\u201d said Jason Pye, Director of Rule of Law Initiatives at the Due Process Institute. \u201cUnfortunately, because all fentanyl-related substances have been scheduled class-wide as if they are all the same, the bureaucratic hurdles that researchers face delay vital research. Importantly, what research has been conducted shows us that not all fentanyl-related substances are harmful. In fact, one substance has been shown to have similar properties to naloxone, which is used to reverse the effects of an opioid overdose. Other fentanyl-related substances, according to one Office of National Drug Control Policy official, may be as harmless as water. Congress has to stop treating this issue as a political bludgeon and instead legislate responsibly. The TEST Act offers a commonsense path forward on fentanyl-related substances that would benefit society and save lives. We hope members of Congress decide to end the gamesmanship and work together to adopt this plan.\u201d\n\n\u201cOur country vitally needs a solution to the continued harms communities are facing because of the opioid crisis,\u201d said Jeremiah Mosteller, Senior Policy Analyst at Americans for Prosperity. \u201cEach year more than 50,000 individuals die from a synthetic opioid overdose. The reactionary policies previously adopted by Congress have failed to have any impact and deaths from fentanyl analogues have spiked in recent years. It is time for a different, measured solution that reflects the complicated and complex nature of these substances. The TEST Act reasonably balances the needs for an immediate response with the need to better understand this whole class of substances and their potential harmful and helpful effects. We cannot keep kicking the can down the road as our family, friends, and neighbors are dying.\u201d\n\nIn September, members of the scientific and medical communities urged President Biden to reconsider making permanent the temporary class-wide scheduling of fentanyl-related substances until data related to the pharmacological effect and epidemiological data of these substances is publicly reported.\n\nLast week, public health organizations and science-based institutions urged Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY), Senate Judiciary Chairman Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), and Senate Judiciary Ranking Member Chuck Grassley (R-IA) to pass the TEST Act before the temporary fentanyl-related substances class-wide scheduling policy expires on December 31st.\n\nOrganizations endorsing the TEST Act include: Americans for Prosperity, AIDS United, Drug Policy Alliance, Due Process Institute, Human Rights Watch, Law Enforcement Action Partnership, R Street, and Vera Institute.\n\nThe full text of the legislation can be found here.\n\nThe summary of the legislation can be found here.\n\nThe letter from scientists and public health professionals to President Biden can be found here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:20:33Z"], ["https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-watson-coleman-celebrates-55-million-grant-to-reduce-lead-exposure-in-trenton", "Rep. Watson Coleman Celebrates $5.5 Million Grant to Reduce Lead Exposure in Trenton", "2022-10-12", "2022", "2022-10", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Bonnie Watson Coleman", "W000822", "watsoncoleman.house.gov", "watsoncoleman", "https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Tuesday, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency announced six projects that have been selected to receive over $30 million in grant funding under the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation (WIIN) Act. The City of Trenton is receiving a grant of $5,530,000 to help reduce lead exposure in the city\u2019s water systems.\n\n\"This EPA WIIN grant is an important step toward environmental justice in New Jersey's 12th District. Lead contamination disproportionately harms low-income, Black, and brown communities, resulting in poor health outcomes for those who are already struggling,\u201d said Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12). \u201cBy removing lead and bringing Trenton's water infrastructure into the 21st century, this investment will ensure that the residents of our state capital have clean, safe water for generations to come.\"\n\n\u201cA pillar of our work at EPA is ensuring that every person in every community has safe drinking water,\u201d said EPA Assistant Administrator for Water Radhika Fox. \u201cThe science on lead is settled\u2014there is no safe level of exposure. This grant funding will help reduce exposure to lead in drinking water and should be used to support underserved communities that are most at risk for exposure.\u201d\n\nThis grant funding, and additional funding through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, will help make rapid progress on the goal of addressing lead and removing lead pipes across the country. Lead poses serious health risks to both children and adults \u2013 children are especially vulnerable. Low-income and other historically underserved communities typically experience high levels of lead in their drinking water because they are disproportionately served by lead services lines.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:20:33Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-menendez-durbin-issue-statement-on-inclusion-of-daniel-anderl-judicial-security-bill-in-senate-national-defense-authorization-act", "Booker, Menendez, Durbin Issue Statement on Inclusion of Daniel Anderl Judicial Security Bill in Senate National Defense Authorization Act", "2022-10-11", "2022", "2022-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "NEWARK, N.J. \u2013 U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, along with U.S. Senators Bob Menendez (D-N.J.) and Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, released the following statement on the inclusion of the Daniel Anderl Judicial Security and Privacy Act of 2021 in the Senate substitute amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act of 2023:\n\n\u201cThe inclusion of the bipartisan Daniel Anderl Judicial Security and Privacy Act of 2021 in the Senate substitute amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act of 2023 brings us one step closer to protecting federal judges and their families. No judge in America should have to fear for their lives and the safety of their family as they work to deliver equal justice under the law.\n\n\u201cThis legislation is named after the son of federal Judge Esther Salas following his senseless murder nearly two years ago in a shooting that also injured her husband, Mark Anderl. We call on our colleagues on both sides of the aisle to support this provision and we will work to ensure this language remains in the final conferenced NDAA bill. There is no time to waste to make this bill the law of the land.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:20:33Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-urges-hhs-to-investigate-grant-renewal-to-primate-research-center-with-history-of-serious-violations", "Booker Urges HHS to Investigate Grant Renewal to Primate Research Center with History of Serious Violations", "2022-10-11", "2022", "2022-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.) urged the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to investigate the National Institutes of Health Office of Director\u2019s oversight and approval of the base operational funding grant, called the P51, to the Washington National Primate Research Center (WaNPRC) at the University of Washington.\n\nThe renewal of the P51 base grant comes after The Arizona Republic and other media outlets exposed WaNPRC\u2019s failure to maintain biosecurity, repeated animal welfare violations, financial issues with taxpayer funds, and failure to comply with both federal and state laws.\n\n\u201cDespite all of these issues, many of which have direct consequences for public health and scientific integrity, NIH has decided to invest significant additional taxpayer funds in the WaNPRC,\u201d wrote Senator Booker in the letter to Secretary of HHS Xavier Becerra. \u201cAn investigation into the oversight and approval process would shed much-needed light on why this deeply troubled facility continues to receive federal funding.\u201d\n\nIn addition to urging for an investigation, Senator Booker requested HHS to respond to a series of questions relating to NIH\u2019s oversight and approval process of this grant.\n\nThe full text of the letter can be found here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:20:33Z"], ["https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/congresswomen-watson-coleman-bush-release-joint-statement-on-president-bidens-actions-on-federal-marijuana-offenses", "Congresswomen Watson Coleman, Bush Release Joint Statement on President Biden\u2019s Actions on Federal Marijuana Offenses", "2022-10-07", "2022", "2022-10", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Bonnie Watson Coleman", "W000822", "watsoncoleman.house.gov", "watsoncoleman", "https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Lawmakers call on Governors to issue pardons and Congress to take up Drug Policy Reform Act\n\nCongresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12) and Congresswoman Cori Bush (MO-01) released a joint statement following President Biden\u2019s announcement to pardon anyone who has been convicted of simple marijuana possession and his call to review the classification of marijuana.\n\n\u201cYesterday\u2019s announcement from President Biden is welcome news and long overdue. By granting pardons to thousands of people convicted on simple federal marijuana possession charges and calling for a review of marijuana classification, President Biden is making a strong statement on the need to address long-term impacts of the war on drugs, and for that, we applaud him. We also know that the vast majority of simple marijuana possession convictions happen at the state level, therefore, we echo the President\u2019s call for Governors to follow suit.\n\n\u201cOverall, we must begin to recognize substance use as what it is: a public health issue. The criminalization of poverty, drug use, and possession, inequitable access to resources, and the militarization of police have all had devastating impacts, particularly on Black and brown communities. Last year, we introduced the Drug Policy Reform Act, legislation that would decriminalize all drugs, expunge and seal records, and make investments in health-centered approaches to substance use. Without proper redress and structural solutions rooted in equity and public health, lives will continue to be at risk and our nation\u2019s families and communities will continue to be destabilized. We have an opportunity to fully transform federal drug policy in our country\u2014 and we cannot let it pass us by. We must save lives, protect Black and brown communities, and eliminate injustice everywhere it exists in our society. We urge Congress to swiftly advance our lifesaving bill. \u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:20:33Z"], ["https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases/rep-watson-coleman-jayapal-and-johnson-call-on-bureau-of-prisons-to-properly-implement-first-step-act-address-other-issues", "Rep. Watson Coleman, Jayapal, and Johnson Call on Bureau of Prisons to Properly Implement First Step Act, Address Other Issues", "2022-10-07", "2022", "2022-10", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Bonnie Watson Coleman", "W000822", "watsoncoleman.house.gov", "watsoncoleman", "https://watsoncoleman.house.gov/newsroom/press-releases", "scraper", "Today, Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman (NJ-12), Chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus Task Force on Policing, Constitution, and Equality, along with Progressive Caucus Chair Pramila Jayapal (WA-7) and Judiciary Committee member Hank Johnson (GA-4) sent a letter to Federal Bureau of Prisons Director Colette S. Peters calling for more information on her plans to address ongoing issues facing the Bureau.\n\nAmong the Members\u2019 concerns is the Bureau\u2019s failure thus far to properly execute the provisions of the First Step Act of 2018. Federal nonviolent inmates are eligible for early release under this legislation, but bureaucratic delays have prevented the BOP from effectively implementing it.\n\nSince its enactment into law in 2018, we\u2019ve seen minimal movement by the BOP to fully implement the legislation as written. With the September 8th release of the time allotment rules that was being worked on before your official appointment, we feel this would be an opportunity to understand the rule and how we can ensure that it lives up to the spirit of the FSA.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:20:33Z"], ["https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases/pallone-joins-protect-our-care-bus-tour-new-brunswick", "Pallone Joins Protect Our Care Bus Tour in New Brunswick", "2022-10-06", "2022", "2022-10", "Democrat", "House", "NJ", "Frank Pallone, Jr.", "P000034", "pallone.house.gov", "pallone", "https://pallone.house.gov/media/press-releases", "scraper", "New Brunswick, NJ \u2013 Congressman Frank Pallone, Jr. (NJ-06) joined Protect Our Care's nationwide bus tour in New Brunswick today with health care advocates and residents to celebrate the Inflation Reduction Act's historic provisions that will lower prescription drug and health care costs. Pallone also received the Health Care Champion Award to honor his work on behalf of New Jerseyans to make health care more accessible, affordable, and equitable.\n\nThe Inflation Reduction Act will lower prescription drug costs for seniors by finally empowering Medicare to negotiate the cost of prescription drugs, capping the amount seniors pay for drugs at $2,000 annually, and capping the amount they pay for insulin at $35 per month. It will also dramatically lower the cost of monthly health insurance premiums for millions of Americans by extending expanded Affordable Care Act Marketplace subsidies through the end of 2025. The prescription drug and health care provisions included in the new law were originally authored and introduced by Pallone, who chairs the House Energy and Commerce Committee.\n\n\"The Inflation Reduction Act is one of the most significant pieces of health care legislation to move through Congress in over a decade, and it's going to lower prescription drug and health care costs for New Jerseyans. The new law finally breaks Big Pharma's monopoly on prescription drug prices. No one should have to choose between paying for lifesaving medications or food and rent,\" said Pallone. \"Importantly, it will help ensure seniors are no longer ripped off at the pharmacy counter by capping both their annual out-of-pocket drug spending as well as how much they can be charged for insulin. It also penalizes Big Pharma companies for unfairly hiking prices on seniors.\n\n\"The Inflation Reduction Act will also dramatically lower the cost of monthly health insurance premiums for millions of Americans and provide families with the peace of mind that comes with knowing they have high-quality health care coverage. Five million Americans have gained access to health care coverage over the last two years thanks to Democrats' efforts to make it more affordable. I'm grateful for everyone who joined us today and has stood with us together in the fight to make this legislation a reality.\"\n\n\"We would not be standing here today without the tireless work of Chairman Frank Pallone Jr.,\" said Protect Our Care Executive Director Brad Woodhouse. \"Chairman Pallone has dedicated decades of service to fighting Big Pharma and other special interests and making health care more affordable, accessible, and equitable for the people of New Jersey. Now, his hard work is paying off again, and New Jersey seniors and families are going to see real relief thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act. This bill will lower health premiums, drive down prescription drug costs, and improve care for millions of people \u2014 saving many thousands of dollars a year and giving them peace of mind knowing they can get the health care they need.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:20:33Z"], ["https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-statement-on-president-bidens-executive-order-on-cannabis", "Booker Statement on President Biden\u2019s Executive Order on Cannabis", "2022-10-06", "2022", "2022-10", "Democrat", "Senate", "NJ", "Cory A. Booker", "B001288", "www.booker.senate.gov", "booker", "https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press", "scraper", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.) issued the following statement on President Biden\u2019s Executive Order on cannabis:\n\n\u201cPresident Biden\u2019s executive order is transformative for the lives of thousands of people and families harmed by our broken cannabis laws. This is a huge step forward toward a more just criminal justice system and more rational drug policy.\n\n\u201cNow it\u2019s time for Congress and states to put an end to our failed policies by legalizing and appropriately regulating cannabis, taxing cannabis, reinvesting proceeds in communities disproportionately harmed by the War on Drugs, and expunging criminal records for nonviolent drug offenses.\u201d\n\nIn October 2021, Senator Booker urged the Department of Justice (DOJ) to use its existing authority under the Controlled Substances Act of 1970 (CSA) to begin the process of removing cannabis\u2019s classification as a Schedule I drug. Decriminalizing cannabis at the federal level through this descheduling process will remedy the harm caused by decades of racial disparities in enforcement of cannabis laws and facilitate valuable medical research. In July 2022, Senator Booker again urged the Biden Administration to use its existing authority to remove cannabis and issue pardons to all individuals convicted of nonviolent cannabis-related offenses.\n\nSen. Booker\u2019s letter to the DOJ can be found here.", 1, "2026-03-30T01:40:41Z", "2026-04-08T03:20:33Z"]], "truncated": false, "filtered_table_rows_count": 406, "expanded_columns": [], "expandable_columns": [], "columns": ["url", "title", "date", "year", "month", "party", "chamber", "state", "member_name", "bioguide_id", "domain", "scraper", "source", "date_source", "text", "has_text", "collected_at", "updated_at"], "primary_keys": ["url"], "units": {}, "query": {"sql": "select url, title, date, year, month, party, chamber, state, member_name, bioguide_id, domain, scraper, source, date_source, text, has_text, collected_at, updated_at from releases where \"party\" = :p0 and \"state\" = :p1 and \"year\" = :p2 order by date desc limit 101", "params": {"p0": "Democrat", "p1": "NJ", "p2": "2022"}}, "facet_results": {"party": {"name": "party", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=NJ&year=2022", "results": [{"value": "Democrat", "label": "Democrat", "count": 406, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=NJ&year=2022", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "chamber": {"name": "chamber", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=NJ&year=2022", "results": [{"value": "House", "label": "House", "count": 251, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=NJ&year=2022&chamber=House", "selected": false}, {"value": "Senate", "label": "Senate", "count": 155, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=NJ&year=2022&chamber=Senate", "selected": false}], "truncated": false}, "state": {"name": "state", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=NJ&year=2022", "results": [{"value": "NJ", "label": "NJ", "count": 406, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&year=2022", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "year": {"name": "year", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=NJ&year=2022", "results": [{"value": "2022", "label": "2022", "count": 406, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=NJ", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}}, "suggested_facets": [], "next": "2022-10-06,https~3A~2F~2Fwww~2Ebooker~2Esenate~2Egov~2Fnews~2Fpress~2Fbooker-statement-on-president-bidens-executive-order-on-cannabis", "next_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Democrat&state=NJ&year=2022&_next=2022-10-06%2Chttps~3A~2F~2Fwww~2Ebooker~2Esenate~2Egov~2Fnews~2Fpress~2Fbooker-statement-on-president-bidens-executive-order-on-cannabis&_sort_desc=date", "private": false, "allow_execute_sql": true, "query_ms": 315.7118293456733, "source": "dwillis/congress-press", "source_url": "https://github.com/dwillis/congress-press", "license": "MIT", "license_url": "https://github.com/dwillis/congress-press/blob/main/LICENSE"}