{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where party = \"Independent\", state = \"ME\" and year = 2016 sorted by date descending", "rows": [["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-releases-holiday-message-", "King Releases Holiday Message", "2016-12-24", "2016", "2016-12", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "King Releases Holiday Message \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tSaturday, December 24, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tBRUNSWICK, ME \u2013 U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) today released a video message wishing the people of Maine a happy holiday season. The video is available HERE and the full transcript of his remarks is below:\r\n\r\n\u201cNo matter what holiday tradition you follow \u2013 and for my family it\u2019s both Christmas and Hanukkah \u2013 this is the season for joy, celebration, and reflection. It\u2019s a time to come together with family and friends to show each other that we care, rejoice in another year together, and take stock of all we hold dear. So to everyone in Maine \u2013 and to Mainers in exile across the country and around the world \u2013 may you be surrounded by those you care about most, may you give more then you get, and may you have your best holiday season ever. Happy holidays from my family to yours!\u201d \r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-nearly-27-million-contract-to-cianbro-for-construction-and-dock-repairs-at-portsmouth-naval-shipyard", "Collins, King Announce Nearly $27 Million Contract to Cianbro for Construction and Dock Repairs at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard", "2016-12-23", "2016", "2016-12", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Collins, King Announce Nearly $27 Million Contract to Cianbro for Construction and Dock Repairs at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tFriday, December 23, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced that the U.S. Navy is awarding Cianbro Corp. of Pittsfield a $26,969,000 contract for construction and dock repairs at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard (PNSY) in Kittery.\r\n\u201cThe work done at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard has a direct impact on our national security, and this contract for Cianbro will help make sure that the shipyard is well-equipped to continue in its important mission,\u201d said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. \u201cWe commend the Navy for investing in PNSY, our national defense, and the Maine economy. And as always, we applaud the men and women at the shipyard for their hard work and dedication.\u201d\r\nThis competitively-awarded contract will support replacement of the caisson at PSNY\u2019s dry dock number #3. The work will also provide repairs to the concrete entrance structures of the dry dock, and is expected to be completed by May 2019.\r\nSenator Collins is a senior member of the Senate Defense Appropriations Subcommittee, and Senator King is a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee.\r\nCianbro is a construction and construction services company based in Pittsfield.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/president-signs-into-law-athletic-footwear-provision-championed-by-king-and-maine-congressional-delegation", "President Signs Into Law Athletic Footwear Provision Championed by King & Maine Congressional Delegation", "2016-12-23", "2016", "2016-12", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "President Signs Into Law Athletic Footwear Provision Championed by King & Maine Congressional Delegation\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tFriday, December 23, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tBRUNSWICK, ME \u2013 U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) today praised the President\u2019s signing of the 2017 National Defense Authorization Act, which ushers into law a provision he fought for that requires the Department of Defense to consider athletic footwear subject to the Berry Amendment by providing initial entry service members with American-made athletic shoes upon arrival at basic training. The provision, which will be implemented over the course of the next two years, will support domestic manufacturing, protect jobs for dedicated American workers, including potentially hundreds in Maine, and help ensure that American troops are equipped and outfitted with high-quality uniform items made in the United States.\r\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cThis is a momentous victory that the hardworking men and women of New Balance have long deserved,\u201d\u00a0Senator King said. \u201cFor far too long, the Department of Defense had failed to apply the Berry Amendment to athletic footwear for new recruits, but New Balance\u2019s employees remained undeterred, manufacturing the highest-quality athletic shoes here in Maine day-in and day-out. Today, their efforts have paid off and New Balance will be able to compete for future contracts to provide athletic footwear to recruits. I am incredibly proud of their work and pledge to continue to fight for them every day in the Senate.\u201d\r\nThe provision included in the final 2017 National Defense Authorization Act is similar to the\u00a0Buy American Act\u00a0introduced by Senator King and Senator Susan Collins as well as the\u00a0Stepping up for American Workers and Troops Act\u00a0introduced in by Representative Bruce Poliquin. Both bills were\u00a0introduced\u00a0earlier this year.\u00a0Representative Poliquin successfully pushed for adoption of the language in the House-version of the NDAA in April, and Senator King, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, fought to successfully add the legislation as an amendment to the Senate-version of the NDAA during the Committee\u2019s markup of the bill in May.\r\nLast week, Senator King was joined by Senator Collins and Representative Poliquin at New Balance\u2019s factory in Skowhegan to recognize the company\u2019s Maine workers and celebrate the \u201cMade-in-USA\u201d footwear provision that became law today.\r\nThe final provision, which survived a conference committee between the House and Senate following the advocacy of Senators King and Collins and Representative Poliquin, mandates that the Department of Defense consider athletic footwear issued to military recruits as subject to the Berry Amendment, requiring the Department to treat athletic footwear for new recruits like other uniform items. The Berry amendment, passed in 1941, requires the U.S. military to provide its personnel with American-made equipment and uniforms to the greatest extent possible. Despite this long-standing law, and despite the fact that it issues similar Berry Compliant items such as combat boots and service uniforms, the Department of Defense has not previously issued new recruits athletic footwear that is compliant with the Berry Amendment.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-colleagues-urge-president-elect-to-help-congress-bring-down-drug-prices-", "King, Colleagues Urge President-elect to Help Congress Bring Down Drug Prices", "2016-12-22", "2016", "2016-12", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "King, Colleagues Urge President-elect to Help Congress Bring Down Drug Prices \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tThursday, December 22, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tBRUNSWICK, ME \u2013 U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) today released a letter that he and several of his colleagues recently sent to President-elect Donald Trump expressing their desire to work with his new Administration on bringing down the cost of prescription drugs for Maine people.\r\n\u201cIt is undeniable that more and more families are struggling to access medications, and in many cases, are forced to choose between paying for prescription drugs and other necessities, like food and shelter. The American public is fed up, with roughly 8-in-10 Americans reporting that drug prices are unreasonable, and that we must take action to lower costs,\u201d said the Senators in the letter. \u201cYou now have the authority to push for a future that prioritizes patients. We are ready to advance measures to achieve this goal and we urge you to partner with Republicans and Democrats alike to take meaningful steps to address the high cost of prescription drugs through bold administrative and legislative actions.\u201d\r\n\r\nIn a letter sent to the President-elect, the Senators expressed their shared frustration over the cost of prescription drugs and outlined several ways they hoped the President-elect and Congress could work together in a bipartisan fashion to follow through on his promise to lower the rising cost of prescription drugs for consumers. Some of those proposals include:\u00a0allowing the Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) to negotiate better prices for Medicare recipients; requiring drug companies to disclose costs associated with creating drugs so prices are more transparent; putting an end to abusive price gouging; and ensuring competition and innovation that will lead to greater competition and more affordable, effective drugs.\r\n\r\nSenator King is a cosponsor of the Medicare Prescription Drug Price Negotiation Act, a bill that\u00a0would allow HHS to directly negotiate with drug companies for price discounts for the Medicare Prescription Drug Program. The legislation could help cut costs for more than 35 million seniors, including about 276,000 seniors in Maine, and boost Medicare savings.\u00a0\r\n\r\nThe letter was led by Senators Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio) and Al Franken (D-Minn.) and, along with Senator King, cosigned by Senators Patrick Leahy (D-Vermont), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vermont), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Tom Udall (D-N.M.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wisc.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Ed Markey (D-Mass.).\r\n\r\nThe text of the letter is below:\u00a0\r\n\u00a0\r\nDecember 20, 2016\r\n\r\n\r\nPresident-Elect Donald J. Trump \r\nPresidential Transition Headquarters\r\n1800 F Street, N.W., Room G-117\r\nWashington, D.C. 20270\r\n\r\nDear President-Elect Trump:\u00a0\r\nDuring your campaign, you promised to implement bold reforms to bring down the cost of prescription drugs. In fact, you acknowledged that \u201cCongress will need the courage to step away from the special interests and do what is right for America.\u201d You also supported allowing consumers\u2019 access to imported, safe, and dependable drugs from overseas and vowed to negotiate lower prescription drug prices for seniors. And earlier this month you again promised to \u201cbring down drug prices.\u201d While there are many different policy options to achieve lower drug prices, it\u2019s clear that we all agree that all Americans deserve access to safe, effective, and affordable lifesaving medications. As Members of Congress, we are ready to advance bipartisan reforms that will help achieve the goal we all share: reducing the burden exorbitant drug prices are placing on hard-working Americans.\r\n\r\nPrescription drugs can work wonders \u2013 curing diseases and helping those with chronic illness live longer, healthier lives. Drug companies, however, have often engaged in abusive tactics that price lifesaving drugs out of reach for those in need. It is time to enact policies that improve transparency and competition in the commercial market and make the government a smarter purchaser of prescription drugs.\r\n\r\nIt is undeniable that more and more families are struggling to access medications, and in many cases, are forced to choose between paying for prescription drugs and other necessities, like food and shelter. The American public is fed up, with roughly 8-in-10 Americans reporting that drug prices are unreasonable, and that we must take action to lower costs. The public\u2019s concern is well founded, just last week the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid\u2019s Office of the Actuary published that, in 2015, prescription drug spending grew faster than any other category of medical spending for the second year in a row. This evidence comes despite claims from the drug industry that high drug spending in 2014 would only be a temporary blip.\r\n\r\nYou now have the authority to push for a future that prioritizes patients. We are ready to advance measures to achieve this goal and we urge you to partner with Republicans and Democrats alike to take meaningful steps to address the high cost of prescription drugs through bold administrative and legislative actions, including but not limited to the following actions:\r\n\r\n1.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Give the Secretary of HHS the Authority to Negotiate Drug Prices. As you noted on the campaign trail, permitting the Department of Health and Human Services to negotiate drug prices under Medicare could not only produce savings but would bring the largest payer in America in line with the activities of the rest of the insurance industry. In fact, you promised that \u201c(w)hen it comes time to negotiate the cost of drugs, we are going to negotiate like crazy.\u201d However, under current law, the Secretary is prohibited from doing so. We urge you to work with Congress to pass a law that lifts the current ban and gives the Secretary the authority to take immediate action and negotiate better prices for prescription drugs for our nation\u2019s more than 40 million Medicare Part D beneficiaries.\r\n\r\n2.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Increase Transparency. Throughout your campaign, you also endorsed price transparency for the entire healthcare system. Patients should know drugs\u2019 true cost, not just the price that the drug companies and insurance companies choose to charge. We already have measures in place to require hospitals, providers, and other sections of the healthcare system to report on different cost measures; drug companies should be held to the same standards. We urge you to take immediate administrative action to require drug companies to publicly disclose costs associated with research and development, materials and manufacturing, and the federal benefits they receive in the form of tax credits, government grants, and government-funded research on which their products are based.\r\n\r\n3.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Stop Abusive Pricing. We urge you to protect consumers from abusive pricing practices \u2014not only gouging consumers with the 5,000-percent overnight price hikes that have made recent headlines, but also the persistent, unjustified double-digit price increases that drug corporations have levied on the American people year after year. As members of Congress, we are ready to work on legislation to combat these abusive practices.\r\n\r\n4.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Protect and Incentivize True Innovation. Taxpayers, through the federal government, are deeply involved with every step of the drug development process, from supporting basic scientific research and clinical trials, to granting exclusive monopolies, tax incentives, and fee waivers. However, taxpayer funds need to be better targeted to deliver what we all want: safe, innovative, affordable, and effective drugs to address our most pressing public health issues and unmet medical needs. We urge you to work with Congress to pass commonsense reforms that better protect and incentivize innovation with the greatest need and health benefits to ensure affordable access and good stewardship of taxpayer dollars.\r\n5.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Ensure True Competition. It is past time to end the rigging of the prescription drug marketplace. Brand-name drug companies, for example, should not be allowed to take actions that block generic competitors from bringing their products to market. We urge you to task the Federal Trade Commission and the Department of Justice with aggressively enforcing laws that currently exist and push for new provisions to ensure timely entrance of generics to the marketplace.\r\n\r\nDuring your campaign, you promised to address the high prescription drug prices that the vast majority of Republicans and Democrats expressed as a top concern in the election. In this letter, we have listed tangible ways your Administration can lead bipartisan work on this issue and fight for the millions of Americans who rely on prescription drugs to lead healthy lives. There will be ample opportunities to make good on these promises as Congress considers the Prescription Drug, Generic Drug, and Biosimilars User Fee Agreement reauthorizations and other health-related legislative priorities, and we look forward to your leadership on this issue by steering both sides of the aisle to work together to pass concrete reforms. We stand ready to support meaningful changes to the status quo and are committed to a future when all Americans can access lifesaving treatments when they need them. \r\nWe hope that you will join with Congress in living up to the expectations of the American people and prioritize this issue as President of the United States.\r\n\r\nSincerely,\r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-poliquin-applaud-6-million-usda-investment-in-private-road-infrastructure-and-fish-habitat-in-northern-and-eastern-maine", "Collins, King, Poliquin Applaud $6 Million USDA Investment in Private Road Infrastructure and Fish Habitat in Northern and Eastern Maine", "2016-12-21", "2016", "2016-12", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Collins, King, Poliquin Applaud $6 Million USDA Investment in Private Road Infrastructure and Fish Habitat in Northern and Eastern Maine\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tCollaborative project led by Nature Conservancy in partnership with more than two dozen other groups\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, December 21, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013\u00a0U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King and Congressman Bruce Poliquin applauded today\u2019s announcement that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is awarding a $6 million grant to a Maine partnership led by the Nature Conservancy that will\u00a0help private forestland owners\u00a0reduce the impacts that flooding has on road networks and restore more than 250 miles of fish habitat in northern and eastern Maine. Senators Collins and King and Congressman Poliquin wrote a joint letter of support for the initiative, called the Maine Aquatic Connectivity Restoration Project, in September.\r\n\u201cBy restoring and reconnecting waterways and improving roads and bridges, this project will help improve fish habitats and enhance the forest economy in northern and eastern Maine,\u201d\u00a0said Senator Collins.\u00a0 \u201cI commend The Nature Conservancy for partnering with local landowners and others on this collaborative effort that\u00a0will help protect our environment, improve fishing, and benefit communities throughout the region.\u201d\r\n\u201cThis project represents the very best of Maine \u2013 environmental stewardship combined with economic growth and driven by innovative collaboration \u2013 all of which once again shows that, in Maine, preserving our environment and building our economy can go hand-in-hand,\u201d\u00a0Senator King said.\u00a0\u201cI commend the Nature Conservancy for bringing this group together with the shared goal of improving fish habitats while also strengthening our forest roadway infrastructure, and appreciate the significant investment in Maine\u2019s future from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.\u201d\r\n\u201cOur State\u2019s fisheries and coastal habitats are treasures and key parts of Maine\u2019s identity, providing for thousands of jobs through tourism, harvesting and other critical industries,\u201d\u00a0said Congressman Poliquin. \u201cI\u2019m proud to have urged support for this important project and am thrilled to see its approval to help advance our infrastructure and protect our environment and the thousands of Maine families who depend on it.\u201d\r\nThe 5-year Maine Aquatic Connectivity Restoration Project aims to replace several hundred culverts and fix fractured aquatic connectivity to over a dozen priority watersheds with the goal of restoring 250 miles of brooks, streams and rivers in northern and eastern Maine. This\u00a0partnership is led by the Nature Conservancy and includes more than two dozen entities that include private forestland owners, tribal communities, federal agencies, conservation groups and local operators.\u00a0\r\nThe grant announced today comes through the Regional Conservation Partnership Program (RCPP), which is administered by the USDA\u2019s Natural Resources Conservation Service.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-126-million-contract-modification-for-bath-iron-works", "Collins, King Announce $126 Million Contract Modification for Bath Iron Works", "2016-12-19", "2016", "2016-12", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Collins, King Announce $126 Million Contract Modification for Bath Iron Works\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tMonday, December 19, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King today announced that the U.S. Navy has awarded Bath Iron Works a $125,950,046 contract modification. The funding will be used to continue Integrated Planning Yard services for Arleigh Burke-class and Oliver Hazard Perry-class ships.\r\n\u201cThis funding is critical to ensuring that the highly-skilled men and women of Bath Iron Works have the necessary resources to continue manufacturing the best, most-advanced destroyers in our Navy,\u201d Senators Collins and King said in a joint statement. \u201cWe applaud the Navy for this contract modification, which will support our country\u2019s national security and the Maine economy.\u201d\r\nThis funding is a cost-plus-award-fee modification to a previously awarded contract for the continuation of Integrated Planning Yard services. The modification covers integrated planning and support for the Arleigh Burke-class destroyers and Oliver Hazard Perry-class of frigates built at Bath, and tasks include design, planning, and modernization efforts. Funding was allocated through the Navy\u2019s Naval Sea Systems Command.\r\nSenator Collins is a member of the Senate Defense Appropriations Subcommittee and Senator King is a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-backed-bill-to-improve-training-and-support-for-first-responders-signed-into-law-", "King-Backed Bill to Improve Training & Support for First Responders Signed into Law", "2016-12-19", "2016", "2016-12", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "King-Backed Bill to Improve Training & Support for First Responders Signed into Law \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tBipartisan RESPONSE Act will help provide better resources & training to respond to incidents, including train derailments like Lac-Megantic \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tMonday, December 19, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tSALEM TOWNSHIP, ME \u2013 U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) announced today that the President has signed into law the RESPONSE Act, bipartisan legislation he cosponsored that supports first responders by making sure they have the resources and tools to handle potential hazardous incidents, including crude oil train derailments.\r\nSenator King has been working with his colleagues to equip emergency response teams with the necessary tools and resources to prepare for hazmat incidents on the rails and keep communities safe since 2013, after a train carrying crude oil derailed in Lac-Megantic, Quebec near the western Maine border, killing more than 45 people.\r\n\u201cLocal law enforcement is our first line of defense in the event of a crisis, and first responders on the scene can truly mean the difference between life and death. And, in so many cases, coordination is key to ensuring first responders get what they need to ensure they can do what it takes to keep Maine people safe from harm and cared for in the face of a tragedy,\u201d said Senator King. \u201cThis isn\u2019t the only step, but it\u2019s certainly an important step forward in providing Maine\u2019s first responders with the tools and resources they need as they do their critical work.\u201d\r\nThe Railroad Emergency Services Preparedness, Operational Needs, and Safety Evaluation (RESPONSE) Act establishes a public-private council that combines emergency responders, federal agencies, and leading experts to review training and best practices for first responders. This council, co-chaired by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), will provide Congress with expert recommendations on how to address first responders\u2019 safety needs with increased railway safety challenges so they can best protect communities across the country.\r\nThe bill was led by Senator Heidi Heitkamp (D-N.D.) and Representative Ron Kind (D-Wisc.). Along with Senator King, other cosponsors include Senators Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wisc.), Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Claire McCaskill (D-Missouri), and Bob Casey (D-Penn.).\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-visits-with-students-teachers-at-mt-blue-and-mt-abram-high-schools", "King Visits with Students, Teachers at Mt. Blue & Mt. Abram High Schools", "2016-12-19", "2016", "2016-12", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "King Visits with Students, Teachers at Mt. Blue & Mt. Abram High Schools\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tMonday, December 19, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\r\n\u00a0\r\nSALEM TOWNSHIP, ME \u2013 U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) today visited with students and teachers at Mt. Blue High School in Farmington and Mt. Abram High School in Salem Township. At Mt. Blue, Senator King toured the school and spoke with students. At Mt. Abram, he spoke to the entire student body to describe his work in the U.S. Senate and also took questions.\r\n\u201cI can\u2019t step inside a Maine school without being impressed by our thoughtful and hardworking students,\u201d Senator King said. \u201cThere were innovative projects and insightful questions at both Mt. Blue and Mt. Abram today, and Maine has a bright future with such talented kids \u2013 and that\u2019s a testament to the dedicated work being done by our educators every day. I thank both Mt. Blue and Mt. Abram for the great visits today. These are two impressive schools with a great, infectious spirit of learning.\u201d\r\n\r\nMt. Blue High School is part of Regional School Unit 9, serving more than 680 students from Farmington, Wilton,\u00a0Starks, Industry, Chesterville, New Sharon, Weld, Temple, Vienna and New Vineyard. As part of the tour, Senator King met with students and teachers at the Foster Career and Technical Education Center that provides hand-on learning opportunities on the Mt. Blue campus. He also spoke with a group of approximately 50 students during their lunch break.\r\nMt. Abram High School is part of School Administrative District #58, which serves the towns of Strong, Avon, Phillips, and Kingfield \u2013 as well as the surrounding townships and plantations. The entire school body of approximately 230 students met with Senator King in the auditorium, where he discussed his work in Washington and took questions from the students.\r\n Photo 1: Senator King takes a selfie with students at Mt. Blue High School in Farmington.  \r\n Photo 2: Senator King speaks with students at Mt. Abram High School in Salem Township.  \r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/manufacturing-bill-cosponsored-by-collins-king-set-to-become-law", "Manufacturing Bill Cosponsored by Collins, King Set To Become Law", "2016-12-19", "2016", "2016-12", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Manufacturing Bill Cosponsored by Collins, King Set To Become Law\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tLegislation will help Maine manufacturers get resources needed to compete globally\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tMonday, December 19, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced today that President Obama is expected to sign into law soon bipartisan legislation they cosponsored that will help support small- and medium-sized manufacturing companies across Maine.\r\nThe Manufacturing Extension Partnership Improvement Act, which will be signed into law as part of the American Innovation and Competitiveness Act, will expand and improve the Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) program \u2013 the premier federal program that addresses the crucial needs of small- and medium-sized manufacturers by offering resources to help them compete globally, support greater supply chain integration, and provide access to information, training, and technologies that improve efficiency, productivity, and profitability.\r\n\u201cIn Maine, manufacturing has always driven economic prosperity and helped create stable, good-paying jobs for people across our state,\u201d Senators Collins and King said in a joint statement. \u201cTo continue that success in this globally-competitive economy will require forging new relationships, increasing collaboration among public and private sectors, and prioritizing innovation \u2013 all of which Maine MEP does day-in and day-out in support of manufacturers throughout the state. This legislation will enhance Maine MEP\u2019s ability to provide critical resources to companies that will create jobs and spur economic growth.\u201d\r\nBuilt on a nationwide network of centers located in all 50 states and Puerto Rico, the MEP program is a partnership between the federal government and a variety of private sector entities that serve as trusted business advisors and technical experts to thousands of small- and medium-sized manufacturing companies.\r\nThe Manufacturing Extension Partnership Improvement Act was introduced by Senators Chris Coons (D-Del.), Kelly Ayotte (R-N.H.), and Gary Peters (D-Mich.).\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-over-12-million-in-funding-for-promise-early-education-center", "Collins, King Announce Over $1.2 Million in Funding for Promise Early Education Center", "2016-12-16", "2016", "2016-12", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Collins, King Announce Over $1.2 Million in Funding for Promise Early Education Center\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tFriday, December 16, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced today that the Department of Health and Human Services\u2019 Administration for Children and Families has awarded Promise Early Education Center in Lewiston $1,227,569 to support early childhood education.\r\n\u201cEarly childhood education provides the essential building blocks for a healthy life,\u201d Senators Collins and King said in a joint statement. \u201cPromise Early Education Center works day in and day out to encourage educational opportunity for all children, and we commend this investment in Maine\u2019s future.\u201d\r\nHead Start was established in 1965 to promote school readiness and provide a comprehensive array of health, nutritional, and social services to eligible four- and five-year-old preschoolers and their families. Head Start services include early learning, health, and family well-being. The Office of Head Start (OHS), an office within the Administration for Children and Families, administers grant funding and oversight to the local agencies that provide Head Start services in Maine and across the country. \u00a0\r\nPromise Early Education Center aims to provide a safe, affordable, and engaging place for children to learn and grow. The center serves children from six weeks to five years old and their families throughout Androscoggin County.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-welcome-navys-new-fleet-plan", "Collins, King Welcome Navy’s New Fleet Plan", "2016-12-16", "2016", "2016-12", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Collins, King Welcome Navy\u2019s New Fleet Plan\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tFriday, December 16, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King released the following statement after the Navy announced a new fleet plan calling for a goal of 355 battle force ships. This includes an increase of 16 large surface combatant ships compared to the Navy\u2019s current goal. These ships include the DDG-1000 and Arleigh Burke guided-missile destroyers produced by Bath Iron Works. In light of the increasing capabilities of foreign adversaries, the Navy has determined that these additional destroyers are necessary to increase air defense and ballistic missile defense capacity, as well as provide escorts for additional aircraft carriers. The Navy\u2019s new assessment is also consistent with President-elect Trump\u2019s stated goal of building a 350-ship Navy.\r\n\u201cWe welcome the Navy\u2019s candid assessment of the naval fleet that is necessary to protect the United States. Navy Secretary Ray Mabus has been a staunch supporter of shipbuilding during his eight year tenure, and we applaud him today for taking a fresh look at the necessary size and capability of the Navy\u2019s fleet, particularly while China continues to modernize its own naval forces,\u201d said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. \u201cThe Navy\u2019s new 355 ship goal is not only an important benchmark to achieve for our nation\u2019s security, but good news for Bath Iron Works and the State of Maine, where the Navy\u2019s world-class destroyers are built.\u201d\r\nSenator Collins is a member of the Senate Defense Appropriations Subcommittee, and Senator King is a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee.\u00a0\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-applauds-senate-intelligence-committees-expected-review-of-russian-involvement-in-us-election", "King Applauds Senate Intelligence Committee’s Expected Review of Russian Involvement in U.S. Election", "2016-12-16", "2016", "2016-12", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "King Applauds Senate Intelligence Committee\u2019s Expected Review of Russian Involvement in U.S. Election\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tFriday, December 16, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tCARIBOU, ME \u2013 In response to an announcement that the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence will conduct a review of Russia\u2019s interference in the U.S. election, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), a member of the Committee, released the following statement:\r\n\u201cI welcome the Chairman\u2019s announcement that the Senate Intelligence Committee will pursue a thorough and expeditious review of Russia\u2019s involvement in our election. It is unacceptable to allow a foreign government to interfere in the American electoral process. This review will be central to understanding the scope of their involvement and will provide Congress with crucial information that can help prevent this from happening again. For me, this is not about the last election. This is about the next election \u2013 and it\u2019s about protecting and preserving the integrity of American democracy.\u201d\r\n\u201cI also continue to hope that, to the greatest extent possible, our Committee can make information available to the American people because the first line of defense against intrusions like these is an educated and vigilant public.\u201d\r\nTo read Chairman Richard Burr\u2019s (R-N.C.) announcement about the Senate Intelligence Committee\u2019s review, click HERE.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/social-security-administration-incorporates-king-proposals-in-new-rule-to-improve-disability-programs", "Social Security Administration Incorporates King Proposals in New Rule to Improve Disability Programs", "2016-12-16", "2016", "2016-12", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Social Security Administration Incorporates King Proposals in New Rule to Improve Disability Programs\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tInclusion of King\u2019s suggestions will help better support Maine people living with disabilities\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tFriday, December 16, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tAUGUSTA, ME \u2013 The Social Security Administration (SSA) today released a final rule that incorporates several proposals from U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) that will better support people in Maine living with disabilities.\r\nIn Maine today, an applicant for Social Security Disability Insurance benefits has to wait 13 months on average from the time they request an appeals hearing at the Portland SSA hearing office to the date that it takes place. The proposals from Senator King incorporated into today\u2019s final rule will help reduce the considerable wait times that people with disabilities experience when applying for programs that can help them support themselves if they are unable to perform substantial work. The changes to the rule are in line with those suggested by Senator King in a letter he wrote to the SSA last month.\r\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cI am encouraged the Social Security Administration has incorporated many of my suggestions into this final rule. It\u2019s simply unfair and wrong to force people living with work-limiting disabilities to wait so long to figure out what benefits they are eligible for \u2013 and what\u2019s worse, to essentially not allow them to make any money while they wait,\u201d Senator King said. \u201cWith the inclusion of these suggestions, I am hopeful that the disability appeals backlog will be reduced significantly and the program will become a more efficient and effective tool to support people with disabilities across Maine.\u201d\r\nToday\u2019s final rule is the culmination of a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) that the SSA had been working on to improve the procedures used to review applicants for the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) programs. SSDI and SSI provide critical support for people with disabilities in Maine and around the country, but unfortunately, applicants often face substantial wait times that cause hardship and uncertainty. For example, the average wait time for applicants in Maine is 13 months from the time they request an appeals hearing at the Portland SSA hearing office to the date that it takes place.\r\nSeveral of the proposals included in the draft NPRM were similar to suggestions made by Senator King in a 2015 disability whitepaper. However, Senator King believed that there were ways to improve on the draft version of SAA\u2019s proposal, and in November, he wrote a letter urging SSA to adjust some of those proposals to promote a faster appeals process that increases efficiency while maintaining fairness for applicants.\r\nIn his November letter, Senator King suggested a 75-day advance hearing notice for SSDI and SSI applicants along with a requirement that applicants submit evidence of their disability at least five days before their hearing \u2013 instead of the 60-day notice originally proposed by SSA. Senator King\u2019s letter also called for a good-cause exemption to the 5-day pre-hearing evidence submission requirement for applicants that is consistently enforced and applied to the full range of submissions. Both of those suggestions were included in the final rule announced by SSA today.\r\nSenator King held a disability roundtable last fall where he heard directly from Mainers, after which he has worked with SSA to improve the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) programs. He published a whitepaper last November with his proposals to help Mainers with disabilities enter the workforce.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/president-signs-bipartisan-bill-cosponsored-by-collins-king-to-protect-northern-border-into-law-", "President Signs Bipartisan Bill Cosponsored by Collins, King to Protect Northern Border into Law", "2016-12-15", "2016", "2016-12", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "President Signs Bipartisan Bill Cosponsored by Collins, King to Protect Northern Border into Law \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tLegislation will assess and strengthen security along Northern Border, unanimously passed both U.S. Senate and House of Representatives   \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tThursday, December 15, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King today announced that the President has signed the Northern Border Security Review Act, a bipartisan bill to assess and strengthen American security at the Northern Border, into law. Both Senators Collins and King are cosponsors of the legislation, which will help to make sure that Maine communities remain strong and safe.\r\n\u201cIt\u2019s absolutely critical that we have a secure Northern Border, and the comprehensive review triggered by this bill is a valuable step forward in assessing and strengthening those efforts on the ground,\u201d said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. \u201cWe\u2019re glad that the President has signed the Northern Border Security Review Act into law, and will continue to work with Maine law enforcement, federal partners, and other border community members with the shared goal of keeping Maine safe and secure.\u201d\r\nNow law, the Northern Border Security Review Act requires the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to evaluate security threats at the border \u2013 the longest common land border in the world \u2013 through a comprehensive examination of current resources and personnel levels. The assessments called for in the bill will help tackle the coordination challenges that federal border security officials and local law enforcement face, and address how to recruit and retain a strong border security workforce.\r\nThe U.S. House of Representatives unanimously approved the bill late last month, just weeks after it unanimously passed in the U.S. Senate. After the bill passed the Senate, Senators Collins and King received a classified briefing by high-ranking officials from U.S. Customs and Border Protection and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement on threat reporting, smuggling and trafficking trends, border security technology requirements, and staffing in remote locations.\r\nAt 5,500 miles long, including 1,500 miles between Alaska and Canada, the Northern Border has more than 120 border crossings, many of which are small and in rural areas. Approximately 300,000 people and $910 million in trade cross the Northern Border every day, representing the largest bilateral flow of goods and people in the world. The Northern Border Security Review Act will require a comprehensive examination of how to strengthen American security at the Northern Border by looking into issues with:\r\n \r\nRecruiting and retaining border security officials to cover the Northern Border, including at more remote areas of the border;\r\nDetermining tools border security officials need to effectively combat drug and human trafficking at the Northern Border;\r\nIdentifying technology that could expand the reach of border agents; and\r\nFinding vulnerabilities in cooperation between state, county, local, tribal, and Canadian law enforcement.\r\n \r\nThe bill was led by Senators Heidi Heitkamp (D-N.D.) and Kelly Ayotte (R-N.H.). Other cosponsors include Senators Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Ron Johnson (R-Wisc.), Rob Portman (R-Ohio), and Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.). A summary of the bill is available HERE.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/at-sanford-vet-center-king-thanks-maine-veterans-during-holiday-luncheon", "At Sanford Vet Center, King Thanks Maine Veterans During Holiday Luncheon", "2016-12-13", "2016", "2016-12", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "At Sanford Vet Center, King Thanks Maine Veterans During Holiday Luncheon\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTuesday, December 13, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tSPRINGVALE, ME\u00a0\u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) attended the annual Sanford Vet Center Holiday Luncheon in Springvale where he expressed his gratitude to veterans and their families for their service and sacrifice for the nation. The luncheon was jointly sponsored by the Sanford Vet Center and American Legion T.W. Cole Post 19, and serves hundreds of veterans and their families.\r\n\u201cOur veterans have served and sacrificed to preserve the gift of freedom that we as Americans are fortunate to enjoy every day,\u201d Senator King said. \u201cAs we come together during the holidays to give thanks for all our blessings, let us also once again give thanks for these brave men and women, for their courage, and for their selflessness \u2013 for it is these remarkable Americans, and those continuing to serve us today, to whom we are indebted. Many of them are serving right now, here at home or halfway around the world, and cannot be with their families during the holiday season. So let us remind them just how much they are appreciated and valued \u2013 today and every day of the year.\u201d \u00a0 \r\nToday\u2019s luncheon also featured an ugly sweater competition, which Senator King was happy to join.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-applauds-passage-of-major-legislation-boosting-water-infrastructure-projects-in-maine", "King Applauds Passage of Major Legislation Boosting Water Infrastructure Projects in Maine", "2016-12-10", "2016", "2016-12", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "King Applauds Passage of Major Legislation Boosting Water Infrastructure Projects in Maine\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tSaturday, December 10, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 With the support of U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), the Senate early this morning passed the Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation Act, legislation that invests in America\u2019s drinking water and wastewater infrastructure and authorizes 31 critical Army Corps projects, including the Portsmouth Harbor and Piscataqua River Navigation Project.\r\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cMaine\u2019s waters are a crucial resource for thousands of people across the state who rely on them for a livelihood, which is why ensuring that our state\u2019s water-related infrastructure is strong and safe is so critical,\u201d Senator King said. \u201cThis legislation will help protect the public\u2019s health through improved water and wastewater management, and strengthen our state\u2019s commercial maritime economy by preserving access to critical funding for Maine\u2019s small harbors. The authorization of the Portsmouth Harbor and Piscataqua River Navigation Project is also a victory for the safer and more efficient flow of commercial goods into the state, which will bolster our economy and help contribute to economic growth.\u201d\r\nThe Water Infrastructure Improvements for the Nation Act invests in the country\u2019s ports and waterways to improve commerce, improves flood protection and safety for communities, streamlines reviews and increases local participation, promotes innovative technologies to address water resources challenges, provides essential investment in drinking water and wastewater infrastructure, and increases flexibility and federal assistance to address drought. The bill passed the Senate with overwhelming bipartisan support today.\r\nThe legislation supports several water infrastructure projects in Maine, including:\r\n \r\nThe authorization of the Portsmouth Harbor and Piscataqua River Navigation Project. According to the Army Corps of Engineers, Portsmouth Harbor handles about 3.5 million tons of shipping a year for New Hampshire, eastern Vermont, and southern Maine. Items include petroleum products, rubber and plastics, iron and steel scrap, salt, limestone, gypsum, and fish products. The harbor is used by submarines from the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard in Kittery and for fuel deliveries to Pease International Tradeport in Newington. Portsmouth Harbor is also used extensively by a large lobstering fleet, charter fishing vessels, commercial fishermen, excursion boats to the Isles of Shoals situated nine miles offshore, and local and transient boats based at or visiting the nearly 20 boating facilities in the area. The Portsmouth Harbor and Piscataqua River Navigation Project would significantly expand the turning basin in the harbor so that larger ships can navigate the area safely.\r\n \r\n \r\nEstablishment of a permanent 10 percent set aside in the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund that will be dedicated to funding small or emerging harbors like those in Maine and around the country.\r\n \r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-passes-collins-king-resolution-marking-december-17-2016-as-wreaths-across-america-day", "Senate Passes Collins, King Resolution Marking December 17, 2016, as “Wreaths Across America Day”", "2016-12-10", "2016", "2016-12", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced that the U.S. Senate has unanimously passed a resolution designating Saturday, December 17, 2016 as \u201cWreaths Across America Day.\u201d\r\n\u201cOnce again, the United States Senate has recognized the wonderful message of gratitude and respect that Wreaths Across America extends to our country\u2019s veterans,\u201d said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. \u201cFor twenty-five years, this Maine-led tradition has been a powerful symbol that highlights the service and sacrifice of our veterans, while displaying the spirit of generosity that makes the holiday season so special. We are grateful for the hundreds of thousands of volunteers who \u2018remember, honor, teach\u2019 through Wreaths Across America.\u201d To honor of our fallen heroes, wreaths will be laid on each of their graves as part of a ceremony at Arlington Cemetery in Washington and over 1,100 other locations across the country. Patriot Guard Riders will once again continue their tradition of escorting the wreath trucks down the East Coast, along with other patriotic escorts including motorcycle units, law enforcement, and first responders. Hundreds of thousands of volunteers are expected to participate in this proud tradition. The resolution is available HERE and the full text is below:+++Whereas, 25 years before the date of adoption of this resolution, the Wreaths Across America project began with an annual tradition that occurs in December, of donating, transporting, and placing 5,000 Maine balsam fir remembrance wreaths on the graves of the fallen heroes buried at Arlington National Cemetery; Whereas, in the 25 years preceding the date of adoption of this resolution, more than 3,317,000 wreaths have been sent to locations, including national cemeteries and veterans memorials, in every State and overseas;Whereas the mission of the Wreaths Across America project, to \u2018\u2018Remember, Honor, Teach\u2019\u2019, is carried out in part by coordinating wreath-laying ceremonies in all 50 States and overseas, including at\u2014 (1) Arlington National Cemetery; (2) veterans cemeteries; and (3) other locations;Whereas the Wreaths Across America project carries out a week-long veterans parade between Maine and Virginia, stopping along the way to spread a message about the importance of\u2014 (1) remembering the fallen heroes of the United States; (2) honoring those who serve; and (3) reminding the people of the United States about the sacrifices made by veterans and their families to preserve freedoms in the United States; Whereas, in 2015, approximately 901,000 remembrance wreaths were sent to more than 1,100 locations across the United States and overseas, an increase of more than100 locations compared to the previous year;Whereas, in December 2016, the tradition of escorting tractor-trailers filled with donated wreaths from Maine to Arlington National Cemetery will be continued by\u2014 (1) the Patriot Guard Riders; and (2) other patriotic escort units, including motorcycle units, law enforcement units, and first responder units;Whereas hundreds of thousands of individuals volunteer each December to help lay remembrance wreaths; Whereas the trucking industry in the United States continues to support the Wreaths Across America project by providing drivers, equipment, and related services to assist in the transportation of wreaths across the United States to over 1,200 locations;Whereas the Senate designated December 12, 2015, as \u2018\u2018Wreaths Across America Day\u2019\u2019; andWhereas, on December 17, 2016, the Wreaths Across America project will continue the proud legacy of bringing remembrance wreaths to Arlington National Cemetery:Now, therefore, be it Resolved, That the Senate\u2014 (1) designates December 17, 2016, as \u2018\u2018Wreaths Across America Day\u2019\u2019; (2) honors\u2014 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0(A) the Wreaths Across America project; \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0(B) patriotic escort units, including motor cycle units, law enforcement units, and first responder units; \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0(C) the trucking industry in the United States; and \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0(D) the volunteers and donors involved in this worthy tradition; and (3) recognizes\u2014 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0(A) the service of veterans and members of the Armed Forces; and \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0(B) the sacrifices that veterans, members of the Armed Forces, and their families have made, and continue to make, for the United States, a great Nation.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-passes-king-amendment-protecting-maine-urchin-fishery", "Senate Passes King Amendment Protecting Maine Urchin Fishery", "2016-12-10", "2016", "2016-12", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Senate Passes King Amendment Protecting Maine Urchin Fishery\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tSaturday, December 10, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) announced that the Senate early this morning unanimously passed an amendment he authored that would exempt urchins exported from the United States from mandatory inspections by U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service officials, providing important relief for an industry that employs approximately 650 people in Maine.\r\n\u201cThis is an important step forward in protecting the livelihoods of hundreds of hardworking people in Maine,\u201d Senator King said. \u201cThe U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has overstepped its bounds, and Maine\u2019s urchin harvesters, processors, and shippers are unfairly paying the price. With the passage of this amendment, we are another step closer to getting the feds off their backs so that they can once again thrive in their work.\u201d\r\nThe amendment passed by the Senate tonight, which had been offered by Senator King, would end the unnecessary inspections of urchins and sea cucumbers being exported from the country. The amendment ensures both that if the exemption from inspection would negatively impact the species\u2019 conservation, or if either species were to become listed as endangered or threatened in the future, their exports would still be subject to inspection. In June 2015, Senator King had also sent a letter to the heads of two separate Senate subcommittees urging them to help stop the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) from conducting the unnecessary inspections that are not required of most other fishery products.\r\nUntil several years ago, the sea urchin and sea cucumber industries were able to export their products out of the United States free from regulatory burdens because, under current regulations, fishery products are exempt from FWS import and export inspection requirements so long as they are intended for human or animal consumption and the species is not listed as injurious, threatened or endangered, or protected internationally under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species. Congress intended FWS to guard against wildlife trafficking \u2013 not to inspect otherwise harmless seafood.\r\nHowever, FWS has too narrowly interpreted the definition of \u2018shellfish and fishery products\u2019 \u2013 for which there has been a longstanding inspection exemption \u2013 excluding sea urchins and sea cucumbers. As a result, processors now must pay inspection fees and obtain licenses, the cost of which cuts into their profit margin as well as the price they can pay harvesters. Further, FWS requires 48 hours notice to carry out an inspection, which greatly affects the quality and even feasibility of such perishable products reaching their destination retail market in the desired high quality condition.\r\nSimilar language introduced by U.S. Representatives Chellie Pingree and Bruce Poliquin has already passed the House of Representatives. The language will need to be reconciled and pass both houses again before it can be sent to the President for his signature to become law.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-nearly-11-million-award-for-bath-iron-works", "Collins, King Announce Nearly $11 Million Award for Bath Iron Works", "2016-12-09", "2016", "2016-12", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Collins, King Announce Nearly $11 Million Award for Bath Iron Works\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tFriday, December 9, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013\u00a0U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King today announced that Bath Iron Works has been awarded a $10,965,890 order against an existing Navy basic ordering agreement\u00a0related to the testing and evaluation of the USS Rafael Peralta. More specifically, the award will\u00a0support planning, management, engineering services, and emergent availability and repairs.\r\n\u201cThis announcement is welcome news for the hardworking and highly-skilled men and women at Bath Iron Works,\u201d\u00a0said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement.\u00a0\u201cAn investment in BIW is not only an investment in the future of the Navy, but also in Maine\u2019s economy and our people. These funds will support our outstanding shipbuilders as they continue to make sure that the USS Rafael Peralta is ready to join the Navy fleet as another world-class, Maine-built ship.\u201d\r\nSenator Collins is a member of the Senate Defense Appropriations Subcommittee and Senator King is a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee.\u00a0 Senators Collins and King delivered remarks at the Rafael Peralta (DDG-115) christening ceremony at Bath Iron Works in October 2015.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-applauds-order-to-review-russias-involvement-in-us-elections", "King Applauds Order to Review Russia’s Involvement in U.S. Elections", "2016-12-09", "2016", "2016-12", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "King Applauds Order to Review Russia\u2019s Involvement in U.S. Elections\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tRenews call for making information available to the American public\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tFriday, December 9, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), a member of the Senate Intelligence and Armed Services Committees, released the following statement today in response to the announcement that President Obama has ordered a review of Russia\u2019s involvement in the U.S. election:\r\n\u201cI am pleased to see the President take this step and welcome the growing number of concerned voices \u2013 on both sides of the aisle \u2013 about Russia\u2019s attempts to interfere with our electoral process. The Russian government\u2019s activities are nothing less than an arrow aimed at the heart of our democracy, and their actions merit a full, thorough, and bipartisan investigation. It is also crucial that, to the greatest extent possible, more information be made available to the American people because the first line of defense against intrusions like these is an educated and vigilant public.\r\n\u201cFor me, this is not about the last election. It\u2019s about the next election \u2013 and it\u2019s about protecting and preserving the integrity of American democracy.\u201d\r\nAs a member of the Senate Intelligence Committee, Senator King last year visited Eastern Europe, including Ukraine, where he met with defense and security officials who described to him Russia\u2019s repeated attempts to involve themselves in their elections and the spread of disinformation. Earlier this week, Senator King also met with officials from several of the Baltic States who reinforced that message and emphasized the importance of making the public aware of attempts to deceive them via disinformation.\u00a0\r\nLast week, Senator King joined several of his colleagues on the Senate Intelligence Committee in sending a letter to President Obama urging him to declassify information relating to the Russian government and the U.S. election.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-mourns-passing-of-bill-townsend", "King Mourns Passing of Bill Townsend", "2016-12-09", "2016", "2016-12", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "King Mourns Passing of Bill Townsend\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tFriday, December 9, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) released the following statement on the passing of Bill Townsend:\r\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cI am deeply saddened by the passing of Bill, a dear friend and one of my most treasured mentors,\u201d Senator King said. \u201cHe was a man of enormous intellect and even greater character who fought tirelessly to deliver justice for people across Maine and who worked unceasingly to preserve and protect Maine lands and resources for the enjoyment of future generations. I will miss Bill tremendously but am grateful for his many years of friendship and counsel, and more importantly, for all that he has done on behalf of our beloved state.\u201d\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-statement-on-passage-of-continuing-resolution", "King Statement on Passage of Continuing Resolution", "2016-12-09", "2016", "2016-12", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "King Statement on Passage of Continuing Resolution\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tFriday, December 9, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) released the following statement tonight after voting in favor of a Continuing Resolution to fund the government:\r\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cWhile I am pleased this bill finally includes long-overdue and desperately-needed funding to fight the opioid and heroin epidemic, the sad fact remains that passing one short-term bill after another is no way to govern,\u201d Senator King said. \u201cOne of Congress\u2019s most fundamental responsibilities is to do the tough work of passing a budget, and I hope that when we come back in January, we will finally be able to roll up our sleeves, put politics aside, and do the job we were elected to do.\u201d\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/maine-congressional-delegation-urges-va-to-fill-vacancies-at-maine-vet-centers", "Maine Congressional Delegation Urges VA to Fill Vacancies at Maine Vet Centers", "2016-12-09", "2016", "2016-12", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Maine Congressional Delegation Urges VA to Fill Vacancies at Maine Vet Centers\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tCaribou, Portland Vet Centers are currently understaffed\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tFriday, December 9, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.\u00a0\u2013 Today, the Maine Congressional Delegation sent a letter to the Veterans Administration (VA) expressing concern about several long-unfilled vacancies at two Vet Centers in Maine. The letter from Senators Susan Collins and Angus King, and Representatives Chellie Pingree and Bruce Poliquin urges the VA to fill those vacancies with qualified staff as soon as possible to ensure that Maine veterans have access to the quality and timely care they deserve.\r\n\u201cWe understand that the Veterans Health Administration\u2019s Regional Counseling Service is in the process of overhauling the human resources processes related to Vet Centers, and we support this effort to optimize the hiring practices,\u201d\u00a0the Maine Delegation wrote in their letter.\u00a0\u201cNevertheless, the vacancies in Caribou and Portland have been open for far too long and need to be filled as soon as possible. Our veterans selflessly served the United States and their communities, and as such, they deserve access to the highest level of care when they return home. We urge you to fill these positions as soon as possible so that no veteran is denied the care they deserve.\u201d\r\nMaine has one of the highest number of veterans per capita of any state in the country. There are five Vet Centers across the state that are administered by the VA \u2013 in\u00a0Bangor, Caribou, Lewiston, Portland, and Sanford-Springvale.\u00a0\u00a0These Vet Centers\u00a0help veterans readjust to civilian life by providing free counseling, screening, and referral services, while removing the stigma of seeking mental health care.\r\nHowever, the\u00a0Caribou and Portland Vet Centers have had inadequate staff levels for months. While the Caribou Vet Center is authorized to have five employees, it has had multiple vacancies for some time, which has led to a lack of consistent counseling for veterans in Northern Maine. The Portland Vet Center currently has only four staff members despite being authorized for six, and lacks administrative staff. As a result, staff may have to cover both mental health needs while taking on additional administrative duties.\r\nThe delegation\u2019s letter, which was addressed to VA Undersecretary for Health David Shulkin, also asks the VA to provide a timeline for the hiring process to fill these vacancies in Maine.\r\nThe letter is available\u00a0HERE\u00a0and the text is below:\r\n+++\r\nDear Honorable Dr. Shulkin,\r\nWe are writing to express our concerns regarding several, long-unfilled vacancies at two Vet Centers in the State of Maine. The Readjustment Counseling Service provides a variety of social and psychological services\u00a0to veterans, and due to the current staffing vacancies at Vet Centers in Caribou and Portland, veterans are not receiving the level and consistency of care they deserve. This has unfortunately been a persistent problem, and we urge the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) to act quickly to fill vacancies with qualified staff to ensure our veterans can access the quality care they have earned. We also ask that you provide us with a hiring timeline for filling these vacancies.\u00a0\r\nWith one of the highest number per capita of veterans in the country, Maine has five Vet Centers. Of the five Vet Centers in Maine, the two in Caribou and Portland have had inadequate staff levels for months:\u00a0\r\n \r\nCaribou, Maine: The Caribou Vet Center is tasked with serving the needs of Veterans throughout Aroostook County. While the Center is authorized to have five employees, it has had multiple vacancies for some time. This lack of availability of consistent counseling is a disservice to the Veterans in Northern Maine.\r\n \r\n \r\nPortland, Maine: The Portland Vet Center is authorized to have a staff of six, but currently has a staff of four and lacks administrative staff. As such, we understand that current staff may be covering both their jobs addressing mental health needs, as well as taking on the additional responsibilities of basic administrative duties.\r\n \r\nWe understand that the Veterans Health Administration\u2019s Regional Counseling Service is in the process of overhauling the human resources processes related to Vet Centers, and we support this effort to optimize the hiring practices. Nevertheless, the vacancies in Caribou and Portland have been open for far too long and need to be filled as soon as possible. Our veterans selflessly served the United States and their communities, and as such, they deserve access to the highest level of care when they return home. We urge you to fill these positions as soon as possible so that no veteran is denied the care they deserve. \u00a0If you have any questions about this request, please contact us directly or have your staff contact William Ellis (King) at 202-224-5344 or Mike Wakefield (Collins) at 202-224-3913.\r\nThank you for your prompt attention to this issue.\r\nSincerely,\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-nearly-60-million-contract-modification-for-bath-iron-works", "Collins, King Announce Nearly $60 Million Contract Modification for Bath Iron Works", "2016-12-08", "2016", "2016-12", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Collins, King Announce Nearly $60 Million Contract Modification for Bath Iron Works\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tThursday, December 8, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced today that the Navy has awarded Bath Iron Works a contract modification worth $59,417,202. The funding will be used to provide engineering and technical assistance for new construction DDG 51 class ships.\r\n\u201cThis announcement is welcome news for the hardworking men and women of Bath Iron Works who deliver the highest-quality ships to our Navy, and this contract modification will allow them to continue to make important improvements to those ships,\u201d Senators Collins and King said in a joint statement.\r\nMore specifically, the funding will be dedicated towards continuing Lead Yard services, which include liaison for follow ship construction, general class services, class logistic services, class design agent services, continuation of the DDG 51 Class Flight III upgrade design efforts, and class change design services for follow ships.\r\nSenator Collins is a member of the Senate Defense Appropriations Subcommittee and Senator King is a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-passes-defense-bill-with-wins-for-maine-sends-athletic-shoe-provision-to-president-to-become-law", "Senate Passes Defense Bill with Wins for Maine; Sends Athletic Shoe Provision to President to Become Law", "2016-12-08", "2016", "2016-12", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Senate Passes Defense Bill with Wins for Maine; Sends Athletic Shoe Provision to President to Become Law\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tKing wears Maine-made New Balance shoes as he casts vote to send hard-fought Made-in-USA athletic footwear provision to President\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tThursday, December 8, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 In a significant win for domestic shoe manufacturers including New Balance in Maine, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) announced today that the U.S. Senate has passed the 2017 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) with a provision he championed that will require the Department of Defense to consider athletic footwear subject to the Berry Amendment by providing initial entry service members with American-made athletic shoes upon arrival at basic training. Senator King wore his Maine-made New Balance shoes today as he cast his vote in favor of the legislation, which will now head to the President\u2019s desk for his signature to become law.\r\nSenator King secured the provision in the NDAA during the Senate Armed Service Committee\u2019s consideration of the bill earlier this year. The provision will be implemented over the course of the next two years and could help support the jobs of hundreds of Maine manufacturing workers. The passage of this provision represents the culmination of a long-fought battle by the Maine Congressional delegation.\r\n\r\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cThe long-awaited and hard-fought passage of this measure is a landmark victory for American shoe manufacturers, like New Balance, who will finally have the opportunity to compete to provide entry-level recruits with high-quality, American-made athletic shoes,\u201d Senator King said. \u201cI could not be prouder of the hardworking men and women at New Balance, and I\u2019m thrilled this bill will reward their efforts by supporting American companies that prioritize keeping good-paying jobs here in the United States, even as other companies ship their work overseas. I urge the President to sign this measure into law quickly, and I will track its implementation closely.\u201d\r\nThe NDAA also includes several other victories for Maine that Senator King was able to secure as a member of the Senate Armed Services, including robust funding for shipbuilding and military construction projects, and additional funding to combat the drug epidemic.\r\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cThousands of Mainers have dedicated themselves to serving in our Armed Forces and to working in defense-related industries that support our national security interests day-in and day-out, and I\u2019m pleased this bill reflects and supports their critical contributions to the defense of our nation,\u201d Senator King said. \u201cThis legislation takes important steps to advance shipbuilding priorities at Bath Iron Works and critical construction projects at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, and it continues to provide additional opportunities for Maine manufacturers like Pratt & Whitney \u2013 all of which are victories for our national defense and our state\u2019s economy.\u201d\r\nMore specifically, the additional wins Senator King secured include:\r\n \r\nFUNDING FOR SHIPBUILDING PRIORITIES: The bill authorizes $3.5 billion for Navy destroyer programs, including $271.8 million for the construction of DDG-1000 Zumwalt destroyers \u2013 all of which are being built at Bath Iron Works \u2013 and $3.3 billion for the procurement of two DDG-51 Arleigh Burke-class destroyers in Fiscal Year 2017, one of which will be built at Bath.\r\nOf the $3.2 billion in procurement for the Arleigh Burke-class destroyers, Senator King was able to authorize an additional $50 million in funding for the DDG-51 that was authorized and partially funded last year due to the work of Senators King and Susan Collins. That ship has since been identified by the Navy as one of its top unfunded priorities, and this authorization secured by Senator King lays the groundwork to appropriate the remaining funding necessary to build it.\u00a0\r\nMILITARY CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS: The bill authorizes $17.8 million for unaccompanied housing at Portsmouth Navy Shipyard (PNSY) to provide housing for the crew of submarines; $30.1 million for utility improvements of nuclear platforms at PNSY; and $27.1 million to construct a replacement medical/dental clinic at PNSY. Senator King specifically requested these authorizations.\r\nFULL PER DIEM FOR PNSY WORKERS ON LONG-TERM TEMPORARY DUTY: The bill would authorize the Navy to provide full per diem to public shipyard workers traveling on long-term temporary duty. The provision is based on\u00a0legislation\u00a0introduced by Senator King and Senators Kelly Ayotte (R-N.H.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), and Susan Collins (R-Maine) that would modify the existing, flawed Department of Defense long-term temporary duty policy for shipyard workers conducting off-yard maintenance.\r\nNO NEW BRAC ROUND: This legislation rejects the President\u2019s call in his Fiscal Year 2017 budget request for additional base closures under the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) process. The last BRAC process occurred in 2005 when the Pentagon's recommendation to close the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard was ultimately overturned by the BRAC Commission, but their recommendation to realign Brunswick Naval Air Station was rejected in favor of closing the base.\r\nJOINT STRIKE FIGHTER: The bill authorizes the procurement of 63 F-35 Joint Strike Fighters of all three variants. Several Maine-based companies, including Pratt & Whitney in North Berwick and General Dynamics in Saco, are in the supply and production chain for this fifth generation fighter.\r\nLONG RANGE STRIKE-BOMBER:\u00a0The bill authorizes $1 billion for procurement of a new long-range stealth bomber, B-21, which will be a central pillar of our national security strategy to deal with future threats. Pratt & Whitney in North Berwick will produce components for the B-21\u2019s engine.\r\nDEFINITION OF CYBERWAR: The bill includes language similar to\u00a0legislation authored by Senators King and Mike Rounds (R-S.D.)\u00a0that would require the Administration to develop options for deterring threats in cyberspace and determining what types of actions in cyberspace may warrant a military response.\r\nFIGHTING THE OPIOID AND HEROIN EPIDEMIC:\u00a0The bill includes a provision, offered by Senator Kelly Ayotte and supported by Senator King, that would ensure that at least $191.5 million will be dedicated to counter the production and trafficking of illicit drugs, including heroin and fentanyl.\r\n \r\nThe Fiscal Year 2017 NDAA establishes policies and authorizes funding for the Department of Defense as well as the national security programs of the Department of Energy. It provides for the pay and benefits earned by members of the military and their families, provides for national defense including authorization of funds for counter-ISIL operations in Iraq and Syria, and represents a vision of America\u2019s national security goals, resources, and policies.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-calls-on-fda-to-explain-decision-delaying-release-of-critical-information-about-risky-heart-surgery-device", "King Calls on FDA to Explain Decision Delaying Release of Critical Information about Risky Heart Surgery Device", "2016-12-07", "2016", "2016-12", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "King Calls on FDA to Explain Decision Delaying Release of Critical Information about Risky Heart Surgery Device\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, December 7, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) today called on the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to explain its decision to delay for more than a year the release of a safety alert that would have notified hospitals and patients of the severe risks associated with the use of a device in heart surgeries.\r\nThe device, a Sorin 3T heater-cooler, has been used in thousands of heart surgery operations across Maine and has also been shown to put patients at risk of acquiring a dangerous mycobacterial infection. The FDA was made aware of evidence of those risks in August 2014, but neglected to release a safety alert until October 2015.\r\n\u201cThe heater-cooler devices associated with these infections are used for heart surgeries in Maine and across the country. While no infections have yet been reported as a result of this device\u2019s use in Maine and the risk remains low, the dozens of reported cases in the U.S. and abroad are a serious cause for concern for me and for my constituents who were exposed to the device,\u201d Senator King wrote in his letter to the FDA. \u201cWhat I find particularly troubling is that, despite evidence presented to federal regulators in August 2014 of the device\u2019s link to these infections, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) demurred on releasing a safety alert until more than a year later, and furthermore did not give hospitals and patients detailed recommendations to deal with the issue at hand for another year after that.\u201d\r\nSenator King called on the FDA to explain its decision to not alert the public and to also explain why it waited two years to provide detailed advice and recommendations to hospitals.\r\nThe complete text of the letter can be read HERE and is below:\r\n+++\r\nDecember 7, 2016\r\n\r\n\r\nThe Honorable Robert M. Califf, MD\r\nCommissioner\r\nFood and Drug Administration\r\n10903 New Hampshire Avenue\r\nSilver Spring, MD 20993\r\n\r\nDear Dr. Califf:\r\nI am writing today to express my deep concern about the Sorin 3T heater-cooler device, which has been used in thousands of heart surgery operations across Maine and which has also been shown to put patients at risk of acquiring a dangerous mycobacterial infection.\r\nThe heater-cooler devices associated with these infections are used for heart surgeries in Maine and across the country. While no infections have yet been reported as a result of this device\u2019s use in Maine and the risk remains low, the dozens of reported cases in the U.S. and abroad are a serious cause for concern for me and for my constituents who were exposed to the device.\r\nWhat I find particularly troubling is that, despite evidence presented to federal regulators in August 2014 of the device\u2019s link to these infections, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) demurred on releasing a safety alert until more than a year later, and furthermore did not give hospitals and patients detailed recommendations to deal with the issue at hand for another year after that.\r\nI am left to ask: given the severe safety concerns associated with the device, why did the FDA choose not to alert the public of the risks associated with the device until 14 months after regulators were made aware of the infections it caused? Furthermore, why did hospitals and patients have to wait two years after the FDA was first informed of the infection risk to be given detailed advice and recommendations?\r\nThank you for your attention to these concerns. I look forward to your response to this letter.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-commemorates-75th-anniversary-of-pearl-harbor-", "King Commemorates 75th Anniversary of Pearl Harbor", "2016-12-07", "2016", "2016-12", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "King Commemorates 75th Anniversary of Pearl Harbor \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, December 7, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) released the following statement recognizing the 75th Anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor:\r\n\u201cOn this day seventy-five years ago, a surprise attack on Pearl Harbor shook our country \u2013 a tragic event that claimed the lives of 2,403 Americans, wounded many others, and plunged the United States into World War II.\u00a0Today, we commemorate this solemn occasion and honor the brave men and women who proudly served in defense of our country at Pearl Harbor that day.\u00a0\r\n\u201cOur state has a long and proud legacy of military service, and while the events at Pearl Harbor were tragic and resulted in great loss of life, this day now stands as a reminder of the great strength and resilience of our brave servicemembers.\u00a0Generations since have been inspired by the Americans who answered the call to action during the attack on December 7, 1941.\r\n\u201cToday, we memorialize their patriotism, sense of duty, and bravery in the face of grave peril.\u00a0Their selfless actions demonstrated the fortitude of the American spirit, and embodied the values evident in Maine\u2019s storied history of military service. We owe them a debt of gratitude that can never be repaid, and their contributions to our nation will never be forgotten.\u00a0Even many years later, we are humbled by the example of these veterans and their unwavering resilience in defense of our nation.\r\n\u201cThank you for allowing me to join with you today as we honor those who answered the call at Pearl Harbor seventy-five years ago, including many who called Maine home.\u00a0We thank them for their sacrifice, and we are proud to call them our own.\u201d", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-passes-bill-to-promote-innovation-in-fight-against-pressing-health-care-challenges-", "Senate Passes Bill to Promote Innovation in Fight Against Pressing Health Care Challenges", "2016-12-07", "2016", "2016-12", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Senate Passes Bill to Promote Innovation in Fight Against Pressing Health Care Challenges \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tBill authorizes funding to fight opioid epidemic, creates working group for Lyme and other tick-borne diseases, bolsters NIH research & includes comprehensive mental health care reform  \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, December 7, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 With the support of U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), the United States Senate today passed the 21st Century Cures Act, legislation that will help address some of the most pressing health care issues currently facing America. By promoting innovation and bolstering investment in medical research, the Cures Act will provide vital support for efforts across the country on issues such as the opioid epidemic, mental health reform, tick-borne diseases like Lyme, Alzheimer\u2019s, cancer, physical therapy, and medical software technology.\r\n\u201cBy investing in innovation and empowering our nation\u2019s brightest minds, this legislation will spur medical research that will help solve some of the most difficult health challenges facing Americans today,\u201d Senator King said. \u201cImportantly, it will finally start to provide much-needed resources in the critical fight against opioid addiction, which continues to take lives and tear at the fabric of Maine communities, and it will also bolster efforts to combat Lyme disease and help advance research to cure Alzheimer\u2019s and cancer \u2013 all of which have touched countless people across Maine.\u201d\r\nThe 21st Century Cures Act is a $6.3 billion medical innovation package that aims to accelerate the discovery, development, and delivery of new health care cures and treatments. The legislation provides new funding for the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and Food and Drug Administration (FDA), updates major mental health programs, and supports major health initiatives like Vice President Joe Biden\u2019s \u201cmoonshot\u201d to end cancer. Senator King is a member of the Senate NIH Caucus, which promotes advances in medical research.\r\nNotably, the new funding in the bill includes $1 billion in state grants to fight opioid abuse. Senator King has been a relentless advocate for increased funding in the fight against Maine\u2019s opioid epidemic.\r\nThe wide-ranging Cures Act also includes several other provisions supported by Senator King that will promote innovative solutions to health care issues facing Maine, such as:\r\n \r\nThe creation of a Tick-Borne Diseases Working Group that would compile a report on federal research efforts related to Lyme disease and other tick-borne diseases. This provision would help accelerate improved methods for prevention, diagnosis, and treatment \u2013 and is based on the Lyme and Tick-Borne Disease Prevention, Education, and Research Act, which was cosponsored by Senator King.\r\n \r\n \r\nA provision that would support prize competitions to develop innovations that advance biomedical science and improve health outcomes, which is based on the EUREKA Act, bipartisan legislation introduced by Senator King and Senator Roger Wicker (R-Miss.) that was originally targeted specifically at curing Alzheimer\u2019s but has been expanded to incentivize cures for other conditions as well.\r\n \r\n \r\nA provision mirroring the Preventing Interruptions in Physical Therapy Act, legislation which Senator King cosponsored that would improve continuity of care for patients by allowing a physical therapist to bring in another licensed provider to treat Medicare patients and bill Medicare through the practice provider number during temporary absences for illness, pregnancy, vacation, or continuing medical education.\r\n \r\n \r\nLegislative language clarifying which types of medical software the FDA does and does not have the authority to regulate as medical devices, which is similar to the bipartisan PROTECT Act introduced by Senator King and Senator Deb Fischer (R-Neb.) that makes clear the FDA does not have the authority to include administrative software, wellness software, electronic health records, software to transmit test results, and certain types of clinical decisions support in the medical device category.\r\n \r\nThe 21st Century Cures Act has already been passed by the U.S. House of Representatives. It will now go to the President\u2019s desk for signature.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-welcome-tariff-announcement-to-protect-maine-papermaking-jobs", "Collins, King Welcome Tariff Announcement to Protect Maine Papermaking Jobs", "2016-12-06", "2016", "2016-12", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Collins, King Welcome Tariff Announcement to Protect Maine Papermaking Jobs\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tSenators led a bipartisan letter urging government to protect domestic papermaking manufacturing industry\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTuesday, December 6, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 In response to an announcement today from the U.S. Trade Commission (ITC) that it will help protect Maine papermaking jobs by extending existing duties on imports of coated paper from China and Indonesia, U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King released the following statement:\r\n\u201cWe welcome the International Trade Commission\u2019s decision to maintain its current tariffs on coated paper from China and Indonesia. This decision will support companies in Maine, like Verso, that provide good-paying jobs to hundreds of people,\u201d Senators Collins and King said in a joint statement. \u201cMaine\u2019s papermakers can compete with anyone on a level playing field, which is why tackling these illegal and unfair trade practices by foreign competitors is so critical.\u201d\r\nToday, the ITC announced an extension of duties on imports of certain coated paper from China and Indonesia as a step to ensure continuing fair market conditions for the domestic market. The decision by the ITC to continue existing duties resulted from a petition filed under a so-called \u201csunset review.\u201d Under existing law, remedial tariffs that are authorized in antidumping and countervailing duty cases are subject to reassessment five years under sunset review procedures. The original effort to address unfair trade for the subject products was decided in November 2010. The petitioners \u2013 including Verso Corporation, Sappi North America, and Appleton Coated LLC \u2013 requested extension of relief to prevent unfairly subsidized imports from China and Indonesia from harming U.S. manufacturers and workers.\r\nSenators Collins and King led a bipartisan letter signed by fifteen of their colleagues in July calling on the ITC to extend the tariffs.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-joins-bipartisan-effort-to-attract-experienced-entrepreneurs-innovators-to-public-service-", "King Joins Bipartisan Effort to Attract Experienced Entrepreneurs, Innovators to Public Service", "2016-12-06", "2016", "2016-12", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "King Joins Bipartisan Effort to Attract Experienced Entrepreneurs, Innovators to Public Service \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tLegislation would continue beneficial program that attracts promising minds to tackle nation\u2019s biggest challenges\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTuesday, December 6, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) today announced that he has cosponsored bipartisan legislation that would make the Presidential Innovation Fellows\u00a0(PIF) program permanent, establishing in law a pathway for government to attract experienced technology entrepreneurs and innovators to public service.\r\nThe Presidential Innovation Fellows program, which was established by the White House in 2012 and enjoys bipartisan support, brings the innovation economy into government by pairing talented, diverse technologists, entrepreneurs, and innovators with top civil-servants and change-makers across multiple federal agencies to tackle some our nation\u2019s biggest challenges.\r\n\u201cAs advancement in technology changes lives, it also has the power to make government more efficient and effective in meeting the challenges we face as a country,\u201d Senator King said. \u201cBut in order to seize those opportunities, we need to attract and steer the best and brightest minds towards government service for at least part of their careers. By providing a permanent pathway to the public sector for tech innovators via the Presidential Innovation Fellows program, this bipartisan legislation would help continue to provide our government with a pipeline of innovative entrepreneurs and ideas to help meet the critical challenges of today and the future.\u201d\r\nThe program is administered as a partnership between the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, the White House Office of Management and Budget, and the General Services Administration. Fellows serve for between six and 24 months, during which they collaborate with each other and federal agency partners on high-profile initiatives aimed at saving lives, saving taxpayer money, fueling job creation, and building the culture of entrepreneurship and innovation within government. The program does not create any new funding obligations, and agencies requesting a fellow reimburse GSA for both direct and indirect costs incurred by the program.\r\nThe legislation was introduced in November by Senators Mark Warner (D-Va.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), and Cory Booker (D-N.J.). A similar bill was introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.) and was overwhelmingly passed by the House in June.\r\nMore information on the bill is available HERE.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-embarks-on-nuclear-powered-aircraft-carrier-surveys-operational-capabilities", "King Embarks on Nuclear-Powered Aircraft Carrier, Surveys Operational Capabilities", "2016-12-05", "2016", "2016-12", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "King Embarks on Nuclear-Powered Aircraft Carrier, Surveys Operational Capabilities\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tThanks Navy sailors, including ten from Maine, for their dedicated service to the country\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tMonday, December 5, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 At the invitation of the U.S. Navy, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) stayed aboard the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS GEORGE WASHINGTON this weekend where he surveyed the ship\u2019s operational capabilities as it conducted exercises off the coast of North Carolina. While aboard the ship, Senator King, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, observed day and night flight operations, toured the ship and met with various crewmembers to gain a better understanding of carrier operations, and had dinner with ten sailors from Maine.\r\nSenator King posted pictures of the trip to his Instagram, which be viewed HERE.\r\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cFrom the destroyers built in Bath to the submarines overhauled at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, I\u2019ve long known that our Navy has extraordinary capabilities \u2013 but this weekend\u2019s embark upon the USS George Washington has reinforced for me the wide range and versatility of our Navy\u2019s operations,\u201d Senator King said. \u201cAircraft carriers like the USS George Washington are central to the Navy\u2019s mission to protect our national interests across the globe, and I am grateful to our incredible sailors, including those from Maine who I was fortunate to meet, whose pride and professionalism continue to impress me day-in and day-out. We are so lucky to have these great people looking after us.\u201d\r\nFollowing his embark on the USS GEORGE WASHINGTON, Senator King traveled to Newport News, Virginia to visit the USS GERALD R. FORD, the first of the Ford-class carriers, to better understand the capabilities of the newest class of carriers.\r\nUSS GEORGE WASHINGTON is the sixth ship of ten in the Nimitz-class of aircraft carriers and the fourth ship in the Navy\u2019s history to bear the name.\r\nSenator King is a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and also sits on its Seapower Subcommittee, which exercise oversight of the U.S. Navy.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-37-million-preschool-development-grant-in-maine", "Collins, King Announce $3.7 Million Preschool Development Grant in Maine", "2016-12-02", "2016", "2016-12", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Collins, King Announce $3.7 Million Preschool Development Grant in Maine\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tFriday, December 2, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King today announced that the U.S. Department of Education and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services have awarded $3,735,439 in grant funding to the State of Maine to continue to expand access to high-quality preschool for children from low-income families.\r\n\u201cEarly childhood education is an investment in the future of our children,\u201d Senators Collins and King said in a joint statement. \u201cThis funding will expand access to pre-K and help build a foundation for Maine children that will benefit them for the rest of their lives.\u201d\r\nThe Preschool Development Grant program supports state efforts to create or enhance preschool programs in high-need communities, while building or improving infrastructure to better deliver preschool services. Maine is one of 18 states receiving funding through the Preschool Development Grant program.\r\nThis is the third year out of four that awards are given to states that are working with local communities to prepare the nation\u2019s most vulnerable children for success in school and in life.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-keynotes-maine-food-network-event", "King Keynotes Maine Food Network Event", "2016-12-02", "2016", "2016-12", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "King Keynotes Maine Food Network Event\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tThanks Hundreds for Access to Local Goods, Growing Local Economy\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tFriday, December 2, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tORONO, ME \u2013 U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) today delivered keynote remarks at the 2016 Maine Food Network Gathering held at the Wells Conference Center at the University of Maine in Orono, where he applauded the years of hard work that have helped grow Maine\u2019s thriving local food movement.\r\n\u201cMaine has a rich history of agriculture and fisheries. The broad scope of agricultural production, from small local direct market farms to larger commodity growers, is strengthening our rural economy,\u00a0gives us more access to fresh, locally-produced goods, and also creates jobs and grows businesses,\u201d Senator Angus King said. \u201cThe growth we\u2019ve seen didn\u2019t happen overnight; it took years of hard work and collaboration to build the impressive local food network we have today. And events like this one are critically important as we look to continue that positive momentum moving forward.\u201d\r\nToday\u2019s event brought together leaders from Maine\u2019s food economy, and focused on issues such as\u00a0the role that local networks play in overcoming barriers to fresh food, workforce development resources available for small business owners, and opportunities for Maine\u2019s marine economy such as aquaculture. More than 150 attendees from agriculture, fisheries, food production, and food recovery organizations participated in the event.\r\nSenator King has been a strong voice for local agriculture in the Senate, working to support the positive trends in Maine\u2019s local food movement. During debate on the 2014 Farm Bill, which defines our country\u2019s agricultural policies for a period of five years, Senator King worked to make sure the voice of Maine\u2019s farmers was heard.\r\nWhen the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) was working to implement the Food Safety and Modernization Act (FSMA), Senator King made sure that Maine farmers\u2019 concerns were heard in the process in an effort to keep the FSMA rules from unduly burdening Maine\u2019s small and midsized farmers. In 2014, he ushered into law the\u00a0Veterinary Medicine Mobility Act, a bipartisan and common-sense bill with Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kansas) that allows veterinarians to legally carry and dispense controlled substances to treat animals on the farm. \u00a0And he has also teamed up with Senator Rand Paul (R-Ky.) to introduce the Processing Revival and Intrastate Meat Exemption Act, or\u00a0PRIME Act, which would make it easier for small farms and ranches to provide locally-produced meats to consumers.\u00a0\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/maine-congressional-delegation-stands-up-for-sanford-rug-manufacturer-in-trade-appeal_", "Maine Congressional Delegation Stands Up for Sanford Rug Manufacturer in Trade Appeal", "2016-12-01", "2016", "2016-12", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Maine Congressional Delegation Stands Up for Sanford Rug Manufacturer in Trade Appeal  \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tWrites letter to Foreign-Trade Zones Board in support of Flemish Master Weavers \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tThursday, December 1, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King and U.S. Representatives Chellie Pingree and Bruce Poliquin announced today that they have sent a letter to the Foreign-Trade Zones (FTZ) Board in support of Maine manufacturer Flemish Master Weavers\u2019 (FMW) trade appeal.\r\nThe Sanford-based rug manufacturer has applied to the FTZ Board for production authority status that would exempt them from certain tariffs. Currently, textile tariffs that are designed to protect American manufacturers like FMW are actually putting the company at a disadvantage and stifling growth.\r\n\u201cA strong manufacturing industry is essential to Maine\u2019s future, and securing fair trade regulations for Maine-based companies is of critical importance to our communities and economy,\u201d wrote the Maine Congressional Delegation in their letter. \u201cFlemish Master Weavers employs 127 people in Sanford, Maine, and is one of Southern Maine\u2019s largest manufacturing employers. [\u2026] Approval of the FTZ application would not only increase competitiveness, but set the company on a track to expand operations.\u201d\r\nFlemish Master Weavers manufactures machine-made woven area rugs, and as the smallest of only four such producers in the United States, faces competition from foreign manufacturers who increasingly dominate the area rug market here at home. In order to remain competitive, FMW imports yarn that carries an eight-percent U.S. tariff. Despite being designed to protect U.S. businesses, that tariff is actually putting FMW at a competitive disadvantage against the foreign competitors who enjoy duty-free access to the U.S. for the area rugs they manufacture abroad with identical yarn.\r\nIf the Foreign-Trade Zones Board approves FMW\u2019s application for production authority status, the company would be able to avoid the eight-percent yarn tariff. That would increase FMW\u2019s competiveness and potentially set the company on a course to expand operations.\r\nFlemish Master Weavers is based in Sanford and employs 127 people. One of Southern Maine\u2019s largest manufacturing employers, FMW has eleven high-speed looms and fully-automated packing and finishing operations. If granted production authority status, the company has indicated that it could potentially increase employment to 170 jobs as part of a 72,000 square foot building expansion.\r\nThe foreign-trade zones (FTZs) program was authorized by Congress in 1934 and is used to support U.S. companies in competition with foreign alternatives by allowing delayed or reduced duty payments on foreign merchandise, as well as other savings. The Foreign-Trade Zones Board licenses designated sites as FTZs.\r\nThe Maine delegation\u2019s letter to the FTZ Board is available HERE and the text is below:\r\n+++\r\nNovember 30, 2016\r\n\u00a0\r\nMr. Andrew McGilvray\r\nExecutive Secretary\r\nForeign-Trade Zone Board\r\nU.S. Department of Commerce\r\n1401 Constitution Ave., NW Room 21013\r\nWashington, DC 20230\r\nDear Mr. McGilvray:\r\nWe write to express our support for Flemish Master Weavers\u2019 (FMW) recent appeal to the Foreign Trade Zone Board for production authority to manufacture area rugs at FTZ 186, subzone 186A.\u00a0 A strong manufacturing industry is essential to Maine\u2019s future, and securing fair trade regulations for Maine-based companies is of critical importance to our communities and economy.\r\nFlemish Master Weavers is a Maine manufacturer of machine-made woven area rugs and is the smallest of four such producers in the United States.\u00a0 The company competes for market share with foreign manufacturers who increasingly dominate the domestic area rug market.\u00a0 To remain competitive, FMW imports continuous filament polypropylene yarn, a material carrying a U.S. tariff of eight percent.\u00a0 Despite efforts to adjust to a changing market, FMW still faces an uphill battle as foreign area rug competitors enjoy duty-free access to the United States for area rugs made in foreign factories with identical yarn.\u00a0 In other words, foreign rugs with the same yarn come in with no U.S. tariff, while FMW\u2019s ability to make the rugs in America is stymied by a U.S. tariff on yarn imports.\u00a0 The end result is that American jobs are, ironically, threatened by a tariff designed to protect them. Inverted tariff relief through production authority is needed to ensure that U.S. tariff policy is not putting FMW at a disadvantage relative to foreign area rug producers.\r\nFlemish Master Weavers employs 127 people in Sanford, Maine, and is one of Southern Maine\u2019s largest manufacturing employers. With 11 high speed looms, fully automated packing, and finishing operations, FMW provides meaningful employment to its workers in Maine, helping them to maintain and improve their financial stability. Approval of the FTZ application would not only increase competitiveness, but set the company on a track to expand operations. The company has stated its interest in a 72,000 square foot building expansion and the addition of two new looms and four replacement looms, which could potentially increase employment from 127 to 170 jobs.\r\nWe request your careful consideration of this matter, subject to all applicable laws, regulations, and guidelines, and ask that you please notify Lauren Pfingstag at Lauren_Pfingstag@king.senate.gov, Phillips Hinch at Phillips_Hinch@collins.senate.gov, Evan Johnston at Evan.Johnston@mail.house.gov, and Michael Sinacore at Michael.Sinacore@mail.house.gov when a final decision has been made.\r\nSincerely,\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-king-announce-more-than-200000-for-aroostook-band-of-micmacs-and-houlton-band-of-maliseet-indians", "Senators Collins, King Announce More Than $200,000 for Aroostook Band of Micmacs and Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians", "2016-12-01", "2016", "2016-12", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Senators Collins, King Announce More Than $200,000 for Aroostook Band of Micmacs and Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tThursday, December 1, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced today that two tribal communities in Northern Maine will receive a total of $222,453 to promote economic development through the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Of that funding, $122,953 will be awarded to the Aroostook Band of Micmacs, and $99,500 will be awarded to the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians.\r\n\u201cWe welcome this funding for Maine\u2019s tribal communities, which will help support vital economic development and foster innovative business ventures among the Aroostook Band of Micmacs and the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians communities,\u201d said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. \u201cBy providing new economic opportunities, these investments will benefit the tribal communities as well as Maine\u2019s economy.\u201d\r\nThe funding for the Aroostook Bank of Micmacs will be used to develop a strategic economic and community development plan to consider the best use of the Tribe's 3,000 acres of land and other tribal assets. In addition, the funding will support feasibility analyses and business plans for two potential tribal enterprises: specialty foods and alternative energy production. The funding for the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians will be used to establish a revolving loan fund to support small and emerging independent tribal enterprises and Native entrepreneurs.\r\nThe funds were awarded through the USDA\u2019s Rural Business Development Grant program, which provides grants for rural projects that finance and facilitate the development of small and emerging rural businesses, help fund distance learning networks, and help fund employment related adult education programs.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/bipartisan-bill-cosponsored-by-collins-king-to-protect-northern-border-unanimously-passes-us-house-of-representatives-heads-to-presidents-desk", "Bipartisan Bill Cosponsored by Collins, King to Protect Northern Border Unanimously Passes U.S. House of Representatives, Heads to President’s Desk", "2016-11-30", "2016", "2016-11", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Bipartisan Bill Cosponsored by Collins, King to Protect Northern Border Unanimously Passes U.S. House of Representatives, Heads to President\u2019s Desk\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tBipartisan bill to assess and strengthen security along Northern Border unanimously passed in the U.S. Senate earlier this month\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, November 30, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013\u00a0U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King today announced that a bipartisan bill they cosponsored\u00a0to help assess and strengthen American security at the Northern Border\u00a0\u2013 the longest common land border in the\u00a0world \u2013 has unanimously passed the U.S. House of Representatives and now heads to the President\u2019s desk for his signature to become law.\r\nEarlier this month, the legislation \u2013 the Northern Border Security Review Act\u00a0\u2013\u00a0passed the U.S. Senate. The bipartisan bill would require the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to fully evaluate security threats and challenges at the border through a comprehensive examination of the current resources and personnel levels. At 5,500 miles long, including 1,500 miles between Alaska and Canada, the Northern Border has 120 border crossings, many of which are small and in rural areas.\r\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cThe first step in determining how best to secure and protect our Northern Border is to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the threats we face and the resources necessary to help protect against them,\u201d\u00a0Senators Collins and King said in a joint statement. \u201cThis bipartisan bill will advance that process for the first time in five years, and ultimately bolster the efforts and work of Maine law enforcement officers and border patrol agents who work hard every day to protect our communities. We look forward to the President signing this bill into law and undertaking the important work of enhancing border security.\u201d\r\nApproximately\u00a0300,000\u00a0people and\u00a0$910 million\u00a0in trade cross the Northern Border every day, representing the largest bilateral flow of goods and people in the world. The Northern Border Security Review Act would require a comprehensive examination of the following issues:\r\n \r\nRecruiting and retaining border security officials to cover the Northern Border, including at more remote areas of the border;\r\nDetermining tools border security officials need to effectively combat drug and human trafficking at the Northern Border;\r\nIdentifying technology that could expand the reach of border agents; and\r\nFinding vulnerabilities in cooperation between Canadian, state, county, local, and tribal law enforcement.\r\n \r\nThe passage of the bill also follows\u00a0a classified briefing\u00a0held yesterday before the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security to discuss the security situation along the Northern Border. Senators Collins and King were briefed by high-ranking officials from the U.S. Border Patrol and U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement on threat reporting, smuggling and trafficking trends, border security technology requirements, and staffing in remote locations.\r\nThe legislation was introduced by Senators Heidi Heitkamp (D-N.D.) and Kelly Ayotte (R-N.H.). Additional cosponsors include Senators Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Ron Johnson (R-Wisc.), Rob Portman (R-Ohio), and Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.).\u00a0Click here to view a summary of the bill.\u00a0\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-poliquin-announce-significant-victory-for-made-in-usa-athletic-footwear-provision", "Collins, King, Poliquin Announce Significant Victory for Made-in-USA Athletic Footwear Provision", "2016-11-30", "2016", "2016-11", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Collins, King, Poliquin Announce Significant Victory for Made-in-USA Athletic Footwear Provision\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tMeasure supporting American athletic footwear manufacturers, like New Balance, included in final National Defense Authorization Act to be passed in coming days\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, November 30, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King and U.S. Representative Bruce Poliquin today announced that the final 2017 National Defense Authorization Act includes a provision championed by them that will require the Department of Defense to consider athletic footwear subject to the Berry Amendment by providing initial entry service members with American-made athlete shoes upon arrival at basic training.\r\nThe provision, which is set to be approved by the House of Representatives and the Senate in the coming days, will be implemented over the course of the next two years and will support domestic manufacturing, protect jobs for dedicated American workers, including potentially hundreds in Maine, and help ensure that American troops are equipped and outfitted with high-quality uniform items made in the United States.\r\n\u201cThis is a significant victory for American jobs and respected American manufacturers like New Balance who will now be able to compete for contracts to provide domestically produced athletic footwear to military recruits. For far too long, the Department of Defense has failed to apply the Berry Amendment to athletic footwear, and American manufacturers have paid the price,\u201d Senators Collins and King and Representative Poliquin said in a joint statement. \u201cWith the successful inclusion of this provision, Congress and the Pentagon will finally prioritize and reward U.S. companies for creating and maintaining good-paying jobs here in the U.S. and will equip American troops with high-quality American-made athletic footwear. We will relentlessly push the Department of Defense to fully implement this already-overdue provision.\u201d\r\nThe provision included in the final 2017 National Defense Authorization Act is similar to the Buy American Act introduced by Senators Collins and King and the Stepping up for American Workers and Troops Act introduced by Representative Poliquin. Both bills were\u00a0introduced\u00a0earlier this year.\u00a0Representative Poliquin successfully pushed for adoption of the language in the House-version of the NDAA in April, and again successfully defended its inclusion in May despite strong opposition from special interest groups who attempted a floor vote to nullify the language. Senator King, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, fought to successfully add the legislation as an amendment to the Senate-version of the NDAA during the Committee\u2019s markup of the bill in May.\r\n\u201cNew Balance is proud to be the only major company that still makes athletic footwear in the United States. We are grateful that the U.S. House and Senate has again agreed that our military\u2019s domestic purchasing requirements as stated by law need to be followed. On behalf of the hundreds of men and women in our five New England shoe factories, we want to thank Senator King, Senator Collins and Representative Poliquin for their tireless advocacy in serving the state of Maine,\u201d said Rob DeMartini, President and CEO, New Balance.\r\nThe final provision, which survived a conference committee between the House and Senate following the advocacy of Senators Collins and King and Representative Poliquin, mandates that the Department of Defense consider athletic footwear issued to military recruits as subject to the Berry Amendment, requiring the Department to treat athletic footwear like other uniform items.\r\nThe Berry amendment, passed in 1941, requires the U.S. military to provide its personnel with American-made equipment and uniforms to the greatest extent possible. Despite this long-standing law, and despite the fact that it issues similar Berry Compliant items such as combat boots and service uniforms, the Department of Defense has not previously issued new recruits athletic footwear that is compliant with the Berry Amendment.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-sign-holiday-cards-for-servicemembers-veterans-and-their-families", "Collins, King Sign Holiday Cards for Servicemembers, Veterans & Their Families", "2016-11-30", "2016", "2016-11", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Collins, King Sign Holiday Cards for Servicemembers, Veterans & Their Families\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, November 30, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King, members of the Senate Military Family Caucus, today participated in the American Red Cross Holiday Mail for Heroes Program, which brings together Senators and Congressional staff to sign holiday cards for servicemembers, veterans, and their families.\u00a0\r\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cThe men and women serving in our military, along with their families and our nation\u2019s veterans, have sacrificed beyond measure in the defense of the freedoms we cherish today,\u201d Senators Collins and King said in a joint statement. \u201cOften times, their service has taken them to distant places \u2013 far from their loved ones and the comfort of home. It\u2019s important to remember that, today, there are still many brave men and women in our Armed Services who can\u2019t be with their loved ones this holiday season, which is why we should join together to support these heroes and their families and express our gratitude for all they do on our behalf. We commend our brave servicemembers, and we will continue to fight for them every day in the Senate.\u201d\r\nIn December 2007, Walter Reed Army Medical Center asked the Red Cross to help distribute thousands of holiday cards for wounded service men and women. In response to the request, the Red Cross turned the project into a nationwide effort that could reach members of the military at other facilities in the U.S. and around the world.\u00a0 In previous Capitol Hill signing events, organizers collected more than 2,000 holiday cards.\r\nPhoto 1: Senators Collins and King write letters to servicemembers through the American Red Cross Holiday Mail for Heroes Program\r\n\r\nPhoto 2:\u00a0Senators Collins and King write letters to servicemembers through the American Red Cross Holiday Mail for Heroes Program", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-announces-additional-victories-for-maine-in-defense-bill", "King Announces Additional Victories for Maine in Defense Bill", "2016-11-30", "2016", "2016-11", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "King Announces Additional Victories for Maine in Defense Bill\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tIn addition to Made-In-USA shoe provision, Maine secures several wins in defense authorization bill\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, November 30, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, today announced additional victories for Maine in the 2017 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). In addition to the inclusion of the American-made athletic footwear provision, the NDAA also contains several other provisions for which Senator King fought, including robust funding for shipbuilding, support for military construction projects at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, and funding to fight the production and trafficking of illicit drugs like heroin and fentanyl.\r\n\u201cThe State of Maine has always played a pivotal role in supporting and defending our country\u2019s national security, and I\u2019m proud that this year\u2019s defense bill continues to recognize and honor those important contributions while authorizing policies and programs critical for ensuring our nation\u2019s defense,\u201d Senator King said. \u201cThis legislation takes important steps to advance shipbuilding priorities at Bath Iron Works and critical construction projects at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard, and it continues to provide additional opportunities for Maine manufacturers like Pratt & Whitney \u2013 all of which are victories for our national defense and our state\u2019s economy.\u201d\r\nAs a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, Senator King was able to secure the following victories for Maine:\r\n \r\nFUNDING FOR SHIPBUILDING PRIORITIES: The bill authorizes $3.5 billion for Navy destroyer programs, including $271.8 million for the construction of DDG-1000 Zumwalt destroyers \u2013 all of which are being built at Bath Iron Works \u2013 and $3.3 billion for the procurement of two DDG-51 Arleigh Burke-class destroyers in Fiscal Year 2017, one of which will be built at Bath.\r\nOf the $3.2 billion in procurement for the Arleigh Burke-class destroyers, Senator King was able to authorize an additional $50 million in funding for the DDG-51 that was authorized and partially funded last year due to the work of Senators King and Susan Collins. That ship has since been identified by the Navy as one of its top unfunded priorities, and this authorization secured by Senator King lays the groundwork to appropriate the remaining funding necessary to build it.\u00a0\r\nMILITARY CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS: The bill authorizes $17.8 million for unaccompanied housing at Portsmouth Navy Shipyard (PNSY) to provide housing for the crew of submarines; $30.1 million for utility improvements of nuclear platforms at PNSY; and $27.1 million to construct a replacement medical/dental clinic at PNSY. Senator King specifically requested these authorizations.\r\nFULL PER DIEM FOR PNSY WORKERS ON LONG-TERM TEMPORARY DUTY: The bill would authorize the Navy to provide full per diem to public shipyard workers traveling on long-term temporary duty. The provision is based on\u00a0legislation\u00a0introduced by Senator King and Senators Kelly Ayotte (R-N.H.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), and Susan Collins (R-Maine) that would modify the existing, flawed Department of Defense long-term temporary duty policy for shipyard workers conducting off-yard maintenance.\r\nNO NEW BRAC ROUND: This legislation rejects the President\u2019s call in his Fiscal Year 2017 budget request for additional base closures under the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) process. The last BRAC process occurred in 2005 when the Pentagon's recommendation to close the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard was ultimately overturned by the BRAC Commission, but their recommendation to realign Brunswick Naval Air Station was rejected in favor of closing the base.\r\nJOINT STRIKE FIGHTER: The bill authorizes the procurement of 63 F-35 Joint Strike Fighters of all three variants. Several Maine-based companies, including Pratt & Whitney in North Berwick and General Dynamics in Saco, are in the supply and production chain for this fifth generation fighter.\r\nLONG RANGE STRIKE-BOMBER:\u00a0The bill authorizes $1 billion for procurement of a new long-range stealth bomber, B-21, which will be a central pillar of our national security strategy to deal with future threats. Pratt & Whitney in North Berwick will produce components for the B-21\u2019s engine.\r\nDEFINITION OF CYBERWAR: The bill includes language similar to\u00a0legislation authored by Senators King and Mike Rounds (R-S.D.)\u00a0that would require the Administration to develop options for deterring threats in cyberspace and determining what types of actions in cyberspace may warrant a military response.\r\nFIGHTING THE OPIOID AND HEROIN EPIDEMIC:\u00a0The bill includes a provision, offered by Senator Kelly Ayotte and supported by Senator King, that would ensure that at least $191.5 million will be dedicated to counter the production and trafficking of illicit drugs, including heroin and fentanyl.\r\n \r\nAdditionally, earlier today, Senator King joined with Senator Susan Collins and Representative Bruce Poliquin to herald the inclusion of their American-made footwear provision that will require the Department of Defense to consider athletic footwear subject to the Berry Amendment by providing initial entry service members with American-made athlete shoes upon arrival at basic training. The inclusion of this provision represents the culmination of a long-fought battle by the Maine delegation.\r\nThe Fiscal Year 2017 NDAA establishes policies and authorizes funding for the Department of Defense as well as the national security programs of the Department of Energy. It provides for the pay and benefits earned by members of the military and their families, provides for national defense including authorization of funds for counter-ISIL operations in Iraq and Syria, and represents a vision of America\u2019s national security goals, resources, and policies.\r\nThe House and Senate are expected to vote on the 2017 NDAA in the coming days. If passed by both chambers, it will then go to the President\u2019s desk for his signature to become law.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-calls-on-president-to-declassify-information-regarding-russia-and-the-us-election", "King Calls on President to Declassify Information Regarding Russia and the U.S. Election", "2016-11-30", "2016", "2016-11", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "King Calls on President to Declassify Information Regarding Russia and the U.S. Election\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, November 30, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) today joined several of his colleagues on the Senate Intelligence Committee in sending a letter to President Obama urging him to declassify information relating to the Russian government and the U.S. election.\r\n\u201cWe believe there is additional information concerning the Russian Government and the U.S. election that should be declassified and released to the public,\u201d Senator King and his colleagues wrote in their letter. \u201cWe are conveying specifics through classified channels.\u201d\r\nU.S. Senator Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) led the letter and fellow Intelligence Committee members Senators Barbara Mikulski (D-Md.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Martin Heinrich, (D-N.M.), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), and ex-officio member Sen. Jack Reed (D-R.I.) also joined the letter.\r\nThe complete letter is available HERE.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-joins-federal-local-leaders-to-discuss-broadband-expansion-and-priorities", "King Joins Federal, Local Leaders to Discuss Broadband Expansion and Priorities", "2016-11-30", "2016", "2016-11", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "King Joins Federal, Local Leaders to Discuss Broadband Expansion and Priorities\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, November 30, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) today joined federal and local leaders to discuss efforts to expand broadband access, digitally connect communities nationwide, and spearhead key broadband infrastructure policy goals in the coming years.\r\nSenator King, a founding co-chair of the Senate Broadband Caucus, delivered the keynote address at Transforming Communities: Broadband Goals for 2017 and Beyond, an event hosted at Google by Next Century Cities, the Schools, Health & Libraries Broadband (SHLB) Coalition, and US Ignite that showcased bipartisan broadband champions from the Senate, the Executive Branch, mayors, heads of community anchor institutions, and policy experts.\r\n\u201cAs we think about how we can equip ourselves with the tools to build a successful future, it\u2019s clear that one of our top priorities must be working to expand next-generation broadband and connecting more Americans to 21st century infrastructure \u2013 and that effort must be spearheaded across all levels of government,\u201d Senator King said. \u201cHigh-speed broadband will enable people across the country, regardless of whether they live in rural Maine or New York City, to realize unprecedented economic, educational, and cultural opportunities. That\u2019s why today\u2019s event, which brought together a bipartisan coalition of voices to champion how broadband can transform our communities, is so vitally important.\u201d\r\nThe economic benefits of broadband infrastructure are clear: for every $5 billion invested in broadband infrastructure, 250,000 jobs are created and with every percentage point increase in new broadband distribution, employment expands by 300,000 jobs. Yet, according to the Federal Communication Commission\u2019s (FCC) 2016 Broadband Progress Report, one in ten Americans lacks access to broadband. More troubling, in rural America, 39 percent of Americans lack access. Furthermore, a recent study found that after each megabit per second increase in internet speeds, the unemployment rate dropped, and the rate of bachelor degrees earned and the median household income increased. In rural areas, where broadband serves to bridge geographic barriers, these benefits are particularly important.\r\nAs a strong proponent of expanding broadband in Maine and across rural America, Senator King has worked repeatedly in the Senate to support investment in broadband infrastructure and to modernize federal programs and regulations in order to promote access to high-speed internet. In July, he and twenty-seven colleagues wrote a letter to the FCC Chairman urging the Commission to close the rural mobile broadband gap. He supported the FCC\u2019s successful effort to modernize the E-Rate Program that helps provide internet access at schools and libraries, joined a successful bipartisan effort to call on the FCC to support rural carriers that provide broadband-only services, and is a cosponsor of Senator Cory Booker\u2019s (D-N.J.) Community Broadband Act, which would preserve the rights of cities and localities across the country to follow Maine\u2019s lead in building municipal broadband networks.\r\nIn July, Senator King joined with a bipartisan coalition of his colleagues to found the Senate Broadband Caucus, which is focused on strengthening broadband infrastructure and deployment across the country. The caucus will address broadband challenges facing Americans, promote bipartisan discussions about possible solutions to increase connectivity and close the digital divide, especially in rural America, and engage with a broad range of industries and other stakeholders.\r\nNext Century Cities is a non-profit membership organization of 149 communities \u2013 including Rockport, South Portland, Sanford, Scarborough, Lewiston and Islesboro \u2013 founded to support communities and their elected leaders, including mayors and other officials, as they seek to ensure that all have access to fast, affordable, and reliable internet. The SHLB Coalition is an organization of 69 anchor institutions, commercial companies and non-profit broadband providers, foundations, and public interest groups \u2013 including Axiom Technologies of Machias and the ConnectME Authority \u2013 that work together to develop and support policies to improve broadband connectivity for anchor institutions and their communities. US Ignite is a non-profit organization that fosters the creation of next-generation internet applications that improve healthcare, education, energy, public safety, transportation, and manufacturing.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-500000-for-eastern-maine-economic-development_-", "Collins, King Announce $500,000 for Eastern Maine Economic Development", "2016-11-29", "2016", "2016-11", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Collins, King Announce $500,000 for Eastern Maine Economic Development   \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTuesday, November 29, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\r\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced that the U.S. Economic Development Administration awarded a $500,000 Economic Recovery Assistance grant to Eastern Maine Development Corporation (EMDC). The funding will be used to establish a plan to support redevelopment and revitalization in Eastern Maine and to provide assistance to businesses that have been affected by the closure of manufacturing plants.\r\n\u201cCollaboration between the public and private sectors is essential for promoting business expansion and robust job growth,\u201d Senators Collins and King said in a joint statement. \u201cBy supporting the establishment and revitalization of local businesses in Eastern Maine, this investment will help communities and entrepreneurs attract investment, create jobs, and strengthen our state\u2019s economy.\u201d\r\nEMDC is a private, non-profit organization established in 1967. The Corporation is located in Bangor and serves the four Eastern Counties of Maine: Hancock, Penobscot, Piscataquis Counties as well as portions of Waldo County.\r\nAs the only federal government agency focused exclusively on economic development, the U.S. Department of Commerce\u2019s Economic Development Administration (EDA) fosters regional economic development efforts in communities across the nation. Through strategic investments that foster job creation and attract private investment, EDA supports development in economically distressed areas of the United States.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-backed-bipartisan-legislation-to-improve-training-and-support-for-first-responders-unanimously-passes-us-house-of-representatives", "King-Backed Bipartisan Legislation to Improve Training & Support for First Responders Unanimously Passes U.S. House of Representatives", "2016-11-29", "2016", "2016-11", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "King-Backed Bipartisan Legislation to Improve Training & Support for First Responders Unanimously Passes U.S. House of Representatives\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tLegislation calls for better resources and training to respond to incidents like Lac-Megantic to keep communities safe\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTuesday, November 29, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) announced today that bipartisan legislation he cosponsored with Senator Heidi Heitkamp (D-N.D.) to support first responders by ensuring they have the resources and tools they need to handle hazardous incidents, including crude oil train derailments, unanimously passed the U.S. House of Representatives \u2013 bringing the\u00a0 legislation one step closer to being signed into law.\r\nSenator King has been working with Senator Heitkamp and his colleagues to equip emergency response teams with the necessary tools and resources to prepare for hazmat incidents on the rails and keep communities safe since 2013, after a train carrying crude oil derailed in Lac-Megantic, Quebec near the western Maine border, killing more than 45 people. The passage of today\u2019s legislation in the House includes minor changes from the version that passed unanimously in the U.S. Senate in May, and will be sent back to the U.S. Senate for final approval before reaching the President\u2019s desk.\r\n\u201cIt happens time and again: when there\u2019s an emergency, Maine\u2019s first responders step up to take action, selflessly putting their lives on the lines to save others and protect our communities,\u201d Senator King said. \u201cThat\u2019s why it\u2019s so important that we support them by ensuring they have access to the highest-quality training and best resources available, which is what this legislation will help do. Putting the necessary tools into the hands of our first responders will better prepare them and, ultimately, help save lives.\u201d\r\nThe Railroad Emergency Services Preparedness, Operational Needs, and Safety Evaluation (RESPONSE) Act would enable first responders to get quality training to handle hazardous situations and have access to the appropriate resources and effective communications. Specifically, the legislation would establish a public-private council that combines emergency responders, federal agencies, and leading experts to review training and best practices for first responders. This council, co-chaired by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA), would provide Congress with expert recommendations on how to address first responders\u2019 safety needs with increased railway safety challenges so they can best protect communities across the country.\r\nSenator King is a strong advocate for increased rail safety measures. In 2014, he joined several of his colleagues in advocating for the creation of a Safe Transportation and Energy Products Fund to provide the U.S. Department of Transportation new flexibility to address emerging issues related to the transportation of combustible energy products \u2013 including more expeditious rulemaking, technical studies, increased rail and energy product inspections, safety mitigation and response planning, first responder training, and community outreach. He has also pressed the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) and the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) to immediately implement National Transportation Safety Board recommendations that were the result of an investigation of the horrific train derailment in Lac-Megantic, Quebec in 2013.\r\nAdditional cosponsors of the bill included Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-Wisc.), Charles Schumer (D-N.Y.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Claire McCaskill (D-Mo.), Bob Casey (D-Penn.), and Joni Ernst (R-Iowa). U.S. Representative Ron Kind (D-Wisc.) introduce companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives in 2015.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-participates-in-classified-briefing-on-northern-border-security", "King Participates in Classified Briefing on Northern Border Security", "2016-11-29", "2016", "2016-11", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "King Participates in Classified Briefing on Northern Border Security\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTuesday, November 29, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) participated in a classified briefing held before the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security to discuss the security situation along the Northern Border. Senator King, who is not a member of the Subcommittee, was invited to attend the briefing along with senators from other Northern Border states.\r\nSenator King and his colleagues were briefed by high-ranking officials from the U.S. Border Patrol and U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement on threat reporting, smuggling and trafficking trends, border security technology requirements, and staffing in remote locations. The briefing follows the Senate\u2019s recent approval of bipartisan legislation cosponsored by Senator King \u2013 the Northern Border Security Review Act \u2013 which requires the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to conduct a comprehensive examination of the current resources and personnel levels and fully evaluate security threats and challenges at the border.\r\n\u201cThe Northern Border with Canada is not only the longest border in the United States, but it\u2019s the longest border between any two countries in the world \u2013 which means that it requires robust resources and personnel to secure it from those wishing to enter the our country illegally, smuggle drugs here, or conduct other unlawful activities,\u201d Senator King said. \u201cMany remote areas in Maine are on the front lines when it comes to border security, and today\u2019s briefing, along with my continued conversation with border patrol officials in Maine, are part of an ongoing discussion about how we can support the agencies and people working on the ground to bolster our border security and protect Maine people.\u201d\r\nToday\u2019s classified briefing featured witnesses from several government agencies working on border protection, including Mark Morgan, the Chief of the U.S. Border Patrol; Derek Banner, Deputy Executive Associate Director of the U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement; and Raymond Villanueva, International Operations Assistant Director of the U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement. \r\n\u00a0\r\nAt 5,500 miles long \u2013 including 1,500 miles between Alaska and Canada \u2013 the Northern Border has 120 border crossings, many of which are small and in rural areas. Approximately 300,000 people and $910 million in trade cross the Northern Border every day, representing the largest bilateral flow of goods and people in the world.\r\nThe Senate recently passed the Northern Border Security Review Act, which would require a comprehensive examination of the following issues:\r\n \r\nRecruiting and retaining border security officials to cover the Northern Border, including at more remote areas of the border;\r\nDetermining tools border security officials need to effectively combat drug and human trafficking at the Northern Border;\r\nIdentifying technology that could expand the reach of border agents; and\r\nFinding vulnerabilities in cooperation between Canadian, state, county, local, and tribal law enforcement.\r\n \r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-passes-bill-to-boost-telehealth-in-rural-areas-", "Senate Passes Bill to Boost Telehealth in Rural Areas", "2016-11-29", "2016", "2016-11", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Senate Passes Bill to Boost Telehealth in Rural Areas \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tECHO Act aims to build on innovative medical education model involving videoconferencing\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTuesday, November 29, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 With the support of U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), the Senate today overwhelmingly passed legislation that would expand on successes in telemedicine to improve access to health care in rural and underserved communities across America. Telehealth technologies such as videoconferencing are already making an impact in Maine, particularly for seniors, helping connect people with medical professionals while remaining within the comfort of their homes and supporting medical education efforts within the health care community.\r\n\u201cWe\u2019ve already seen how telemedicine can help revolutionize the delivery of health services in rural Maine. Videoconferencing, along with other advanced technologies, are bridging rural divides and connecting people to medical professionals, making health care services more accessible and more convenient than ever before,\u201d Senator King said. \u201cBy advancing the innovative education and training model known as Project ECHO, this legislation will help us expand the encouraging telehealth trends that we are already seeing across rural America.\u201d\u00a0\r\nThe bipartisan legislation, the Expanding Connectivity for Health Outcomes (ECHO) Act, seeks to expand the positive impact of a medical education model, the Project Extension for Community Health Outcomes \u2013 known as Project ECHO \u2013 which utilizes interactive videoconferencing to connect primary health care providers in rural areas with specialist teams that provide teaching and mentoring.\r\nProject ECHO has already been used to address conditions like Diabetes, Hepatitis C, chronic pain, and addiction. The ECHO Act aims to better integrate this model into health care systems across the country by requiring the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to conduct a study on the model and its potential impact for rural and underserved areas \u2013 as well as an analysis of the opportunities and barriers to implementation.\r\nRural communities face several challenges when it comes to health care, including higher rates of some chronic diseases, isolation, lack of transportation options, and decreased connectivity. And despite the fact that nearly one fourth of America\u2019s population lives in rural areas, only about 10 percent of physicians are estimated to practice in those areas. The videoconference education and training provided through the Project ECHO model works to address some of those challenges by increasing knowledge for local primary care providers on the ground in rural communities, improving access to high quality care for patients, and decreasing health care system costs by promoting better quality of care closer to home.\r\nAs a member of the Health Information and Management Systems Society\u2019s Capitol Hill\u00a0Steering Committee on Telehealth and Healthcare Informatics, Senator King works with his colleagues to support technology developments that are revolutionizing the delivery of rural health care services. He is also a strong proponent of rural broadband \u2013 a critical component in the effort to expand telemedicine technology. In 2015, he held a roundtable discussion at the University of Maine that brought together state leaders from the health care, telecommunications, and education sectors to focus on the benefits of this innovative technology and how its delivery can be improved across Maine and the country.\r\nA one-page summary of the ECHO Act is available HERE. A companion bill has been introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/icymi-nyts-editorial-applauds-pentagon-cyber-program-king-and-heinrich-want-expanded", "ICYMI: NYTs Editorial Applauds Pentagon Cyber Program King & Heinrich Want Expanded", "2016-11-28", "2016", "2016-11", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "ICYMI: NYTs Editorial Applauds Pentagon Cyber Program King & Heinrich Want Expanded\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tMonday, November 28, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tIn case you missed it, an editorial from the New York Times today applauded the Department of Defense for once again pursuing a \u201cBug Bounty\u201d program, which rewards so-called \u201cwhite hat\u201d hackers who detect and report security vulnerabilities within the Pentagon\u2019s cyber-networks. On October 24, 2016, U.S. Senators Angus King (I-Maine) and Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), members of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, also commended the program in a letter to President Obama and urged him to expand it across the entire government.\r\n\u201cWe believe such programs represent a cost-effective way to supplement and support the people who defend our government\u2019s IT systems \u2013 and these efforts should not be limited to the Pentagon\u2019s networks,\u201d Senators King and Heinrich wrote in their October letter.\u00a0 \u201cAs such, we request that your administration work with us to establish standards and appropriate coordination platforms to build on the success of the Department\u2019s pilot and promote government-wide bug bounty programs.\u201d\r\n+++\r\nNew York Times Editorial: Pentagon: Looking for a Few Good Hackers\r\nBy\u00a0THE EDITORIAL BOARD| NOV. 28, 2016\r\n\r\nIn June 2015, the Office of Personnel Management announced that foreign hackers\u00a0had stolen the personnel records\u00a0of millions of federal employees, one of the most damaging cyberattacks in history. Just weeks later, the office of the Joint Chiefs of Staff shut down its unclassified email system for several days after officials detected that it had been breached.\r\nThese serious intrusions came months after a group affiliated with the Islamic State briefly commandeered\u00a0the Central Command\u2019s Twitter account\u00a0and rebranded it as the \u201cCyber Caliphate.\u201d\r\nGiven the enormity of the problem, one of the responses by the Department of Defense might seem befuddling. They\u2019ve asked hackers willing to play by strict rules to find vulnerabilities in some of the Pentagon\u2019s unclassified computer system.\r\nWell-intentioned computer security experts routinely scan the internet in search of vulnerabilities, which they often map out and report. Until now, doing that on Pentagon sites carried the considerable legal risk of running afoul of the Computer Fraud and Abuse Act.\r\n\u201cHack the Pentagon\u201d kicked off in April with a monthlong trial program that attracted 1,400 so-called white hackers to fiddle with Department of Defense websites on the hunt for weak points that could be exploited to steal data or jam systems. Those hackers spotted 138 weaknesses, according to the Pentagon, and were paid $75,000 in rewards.\r\nEncouraged by the results, the Defense Department last week\u00a0announced a formal policy\u00a0permitting outside computer experts to test for vulnerabilities in the system and report them to the department. Secretary of Defense\u00a0Ashton Carter called the initiative\u00a0\u201ca \u2018see something, say something\u2019 policy for the digital domain.\u201d Those hackers won\u2019t be paid for their reports, but officials hope they will do it out of a sense of duty.\r\nIn addition, the department has started \u201cHack the Army,\u201d a program asking hackers who have been approved by the government to test the Army\u2019s recruiting websites for weaknesses.\r\nWhile these efforts represent just one aspect of the federal government\u2019s effort to protect secret data more rigorously, Mr. Carter deserves credit for championing an unconventional approach.\r\n\u201cHack the Pentagon\u201d and \u201cHack the Army\u201d allows defense officials to draw from a talent pool that includes people who would not ordinarily feel at home in the military\u2019s hierarchical culture. It may well turn into an unconventional recruitment pipeline for an organization that always benefits from outside perspectives and carefully calibrated disruption.\r\nhttp://www.nytimes.com/2016/11/28/opinion/pentagon-looking-for-a-few-good-hackers.html?partner=rssnyt&emc=rss&_r=0\r\n+++\r\n\r\nKing, Heinrich Urge President to Strengthen Cybersecurity Networks\r\nIn a letter that comes days after complex cyber-attack, the Senators call on the President to adopt government-wide policies that will help detect vulnerabilities and communicate them to private sector\r\nBRUNSWICK, ME \u2013 In the wake of a complex cyber-attack that disrupted service to Twitter, Spotify, The New York Times and other major websites, U.S. Senators Angus King (I-Maine) and Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) today called on President Barack Obama to work with Congress to strengthen the federal government\u2019s ability to detect and repair cyber-vulnerabilities within U.S. networks. In a letter sent today, the two members of the Senate Intelligence Committee urged the President to help establish uniform policies across the government that would secure U.S. networks and establish a comprehensive process that would relay any detected vulnerabilities to private sector companies for repair.\r\n\u201cGiven the growing threat to our nation\u2019s networks and digital services, we write to urge you to work with us to establish enduring government policies for the discovery, review, and sharing of security vulnerabilities. The recent intrusions into United States networks and the controversy surrounding the Federal Bureau of Investigation\u2019s efforts to access the iPhone used in the San Bernardino attacks have underscored for us the need to establish more robust and accountable policies regarding security vulnerabilities,\u201d Senators King and Heinrich wrote in their letter.\r\nSenators King and Heinrich pointed specifically to the success of the Department of Defense\u2019s (DOD) \u201cBug Bounty\u201d program, which rewards so-called \u201cwhite hat\u201d hackers who detect and report security vulnerabilities within the DOD\u2019s networks. Of the 1,410 vetted U.S.-based hackers who registered for the Pentagon\u2019s program, 250 successfully found vulnerabilities and 138 submissions were found to be \u201clegitimate, unique and eligible for a bounty.\u201d\r\n\u201cWe believe such programs represent a cost-effective way to supplement and support the people who defend our government\u2019s IT systems \u2013 and these efforts should not be limited to the Pentagon\u2019s networks,\u201d the Senators wrote.\u00a0 \u201cAs such, we request that your administration work with us to establish standards and appropriate coordination platforms to build on the success of the Department\u2019s pilot and promote government-wide bug bounty programs.\u201d\r\nThe Senators also encouraged the President to continue to strengthen the Vulnerabilities Equities Process, otherwise known as VEP, which serves as the primary process for deciding whether a government entity must disclose to private companies\u2019 information about security vulnerabilities in their products, or whether the government may withhold the information for law enforcement or intelligence purposes. The Senators requested that the Administration establish a comprehensive policy that includes standard criteria for reporting vulnerabilities to the VEP, guidelines for making VEP determinations, clear time limits for each stage of the process, adequate participation of all relevant government agencies, and regular reporting to Congress.\r\n\u201cWe believe the VEP framework is vital to ensuring that security vulnerabilities are either disclosed immediately so the relevant companies can strengthen consumer security, or put through a robust, accountable, and expeditious review process in the exceptional circumstances when the government may wish to delay disclosure for a limited amount of time,\u201d they wrote.\r\nThe complete text of the letter can be read below:\r\n+++\r\nOctober 24, 2016\r\n\r\nThe President\r\nThe White House\r\n1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW\r\nWashington, DC\u00a0 20500\r\n\u00a0\r\nDear Mr. President:\r\n\u00a0\r\nGiven the growing threat to our nation\u2019s networks and digital services, we write to urge you to work with us to establish enduring government policies for the discovery, review, and sharing of security vulnerabilities.\u00a0\r\nThe recent intrusions into United States networks and the controversy surrounding the Federal Bureau of Investigation\u2019s efforts to access the iPhone used in the San Bernardino attacks have underscored for us the need to establish more robust and accountable policies regarding security vulnerabilities.\u00a0 Specifically, we are exploring whether legislation is needed to establish government-wide policies with respect to two lines of effort: \u201cbug bounty\u201d programs that would help secure government networks like those used by the Office of Personnel Management, and formalizing the vulnerabilities equities process, which notifies software and hardware manufacturers of vulnerabilities discovered in their products.\r\nBug Bounty Programs: The private sector has been using bug bounty programs for decades to reward people who report security vulnerabilities in companies\u2019 applications, websites, and networks.\u00a0 Earlier this year, the Department of Defense launched \u201cHack the Pentagon,\u201d the first cyber bug bounty program in the history of the federal government.\u00a0 Of the 1,410 vetted U.S.-based hackers who registered for the Pentagon\u2019s program, 250 successfully found vulnerabilities and 138 submissions were found to be \u201clegitimate, unique and eligible for a bounty.\u201d\u00a0\r\nWe believe such programs represent a cost-effective way to supplement and support the people who defend our government\u2019s IT systems \u2013 and these efforts should not be limited to the Pentagon\u2019s networks.\u00a0 As such, we request that your administration work with us to establish standards and appropriate coordination platforms to build on the success of the Department\u2019s pilot and promote government-wide bug bounty programs.\u00a0\u00a0\r\nVulnerabilities Equities Process (VEP): Over the last several years, your administration, led by White House Cybersecurity Coordinator Michael Daniel, has made progress in establishing the VEP as the primary process for deciding whether a government entity must disclose to private companies\u2019 information about security vulnerabilities in their products, or whether the government may withhold the information for law enforcement or intelligence purposes.\u00a0 We believe the VEP framework is vital to ensuring that security vulnerabilities are either disclosed immediately so the relevant companies can strengthen consumer security, or put through a robust, accountable, and expeditious review process in the exceptional circumstances when the government may wish to delay disclosure for a limited amount of time.\u00a0\r\nDuring a Senate Armed Services Committee hearing on September 13th, Admiral Rogers said the NSA has utilized a \u201cvulnerability evaluation process\u201d since 2014 and that its \u201coverall disclosure rate [of vulnerabilities to companies] has been 93 percent or so.\u201d\u00a0 However, as of today, there is no legal obligation on government agencies to report the security vulnerabilities they discover or acquire to the White House-led VEP, nor is the VEP codified in law.\u00a0 In fact, it is unclear to us if all security vulnerabilities acquired by our government currently go through the VEP.\u00a0\r\nTherefore, we request that your administration work with us to establish comprehensive and enduring policies governing the VEP process, including standard criteria for reporting vulnerabilities to the VEP, guidelines for making VEP determinations, clear time limits for each stage of the process, adequate participation of all relevant government agencies, and regular reporting to Congress.\r\nFinally, last year Congress passed, and you signed, the Cybersecurity Information Sharing Act of 2015 (CISA).\u00a0 We were early proponents of this legislation, which directs the federal government to increase its sharing of cyber information with the private sector to assist companies in protecting their systems, and provides clear authority and liability protection for private sector entities to share information with the government.\u00a0 We encourage your administration to use all of the authorities available under CISA to make progress on the lines of effort we have outlined above.\u00a0\r\nThank you for your attention to these important issues.\u00a0 We look forward to working closely with your administration on these vital national security challenges in the weeks ahead.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-nearly-30-million-navy-contract-for-cianbro-for-pnsy-repairs-", "Collins, King Announce Nearly $30 Million Navy Contract for Cianbro for PNSY Repairs", "2016-11-21", "2016", "2016-11", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Collins, King Announce Nearly $30 Million Navy Contract for Cianbro for PNSY Repairs \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tMonday, November 21, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King today announced that Cianbro Corp. of Pittsfield has been awarded a $28,860,243 contract from the U.S. Navy to perform structural repairs at Portsmouth Naval Shipyard (PNSY) in Kittery.\r\n\u201cPortsmouth Naval Shipyard plays a critical role in the defense of our country, and it\u2019s important that the shipyard has the tools and infrastructure needed to continue in that mission,\u201d said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. \u201cWe applaud Cianbro for securing this competitive contract from the Navy and expect that their work on repairs will provide valuable support to the daily operations at PNSY.\u201d\u00a0\r\nThis competitively-awarded contract will support repairs and modernization of pile supported open wharf structures at PSNY\u2019s Berth 11. The project aims to restore the load carrying capacity of the crane rail system on the shipyard\u2019s waterfront, while providing corrosion protection to the wharf. The work is expected to be completed by March 2019.\r\nCianbro is a construction and construction services company based in Pittsfield.\r\nSenator Collins is a senior member of the Senate Defense Appropriations Subcommittee, and Senator King is a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-statement-on-leadership-transition-at-bath-iron-works", "Collins, King Statement on Leadership Transition at Bath Iron Works", "2016-11-21", "2016", "2016-11", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Collins, King Statement on Leadership Transition at Bath Iron Works\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tMonday, November 21, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King released the following statement today in response to the announcement that Dirk A. Lesko will succeed Fred Harris as President of Bath Iron Works on January 1, 2017:\r\n\u201cWe commend the selection of Dirk Lesko to serve as the next President of Bath Iron Works. We have both worked with Dirk very closely over the years and are confident that his depth of experience, proven track record, and longstanding commitment to the yard will make him good leader who will work well with the talented and skilled employees at BIW. We look forward to continuing to work with him in his new capacity to help position the shipyard for success in the future,\u201d Senators Collins and King said in a joint statement. \u201cWe also want to thank Fred Harris for his years of dedicated service to Bath and wish him well as he enters retirement this January.\u201d\r\nSenator Collins is a senior member of the Senate Defense Appropriations Subcommittee and Senator King is a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-celebrates-expansion-of-downeaster-service", "King Celebrates Expansion of Downeaster Service", "2016-11-21", "2016", "2016-11", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "King Celebrates Expansion of Downeaster Service\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tIncreased service will provide more options to southbound travelers and enable weekend day-trips to Boston\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tMonday, November 21, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tBRUNSWICK, ME \u2013 U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) today joined with local citizens, Amtrak and Downeaster officials and state business leaders to celebrate the launch of Amtrak\u2019s new schedule with more convenient travel options, including the addition of a third daily roundtrip from Boston to Freeport and Brunswick, which officially begins today.\r\n\u201cThe Downeaster is one of the best trains in the Amtrak system, and from my time as Governor to today, it\u2019s been incredible to witness its continued growth and success,\u201d Senator King said. \u201cNot only does the Downeaster connect Maine to the greater Boston area, but it also links us to the rest of the nation, and the addition of this third trip daily roundtrip will only help strengthen those connections by making travel options more convenient for passengers. I look forward to the Downeaster\u2019s continued success in the years to come.\u201d\r\nCurrently, the Amtrak Downeaster makes five round-trips each day between Portland and Boston.\u00a0 Since November 2012, two of those round-trips have extended to Freeport and Brunswick. Beginning on November 21, 2016, the frequency of service to Freeport and Brunswick will increase to three round-trips each day with the addition of a new late morning southbound departure and new evening arrival times. The increased service will provide more options to southbound travelers and enable weekend day-trips to sporting events at Boston\u2019s TD Garden. The schedule changes also provide more convenient options for business travelers by introducing an early afternoon northbound departure from Boston.\r\nThe Amtrak Downeaster set ridership and revenue records for the first quarter of its fiscal year 2017 (July\u2013September 2016) and continues to have one of the highest customer satisfaction ratings in the entire Amtrak network. Since service operation began on December 15, 2001, the Downeaster has transported more than 6 million passengers the equivalent of 500 million passenger miles and has generated more than $90 million in ticket revenue.\r\nThis evening, Senator King will deliver the 1st Annual Purpoodock Lecture at the Purpoodock Club in Cape Elizabeth. Senator King\u2019s remarks are titled \u201cISIS, Russia, and the Korean Bomb: The View from Maine\u201d and will focus on international relations and U.S. foreign policy. The lecture is free and open to the public.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-join-colleagues-calling-for-improved-mail-service-protections-in-comprehensive-postal-reform-legislation", "Collins, King Join Colleagues Calling for Improved Mail Service Protections in Comprehensive Postal Reform Legislation", "2016-11-18", "2016", "2016-11", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Collins, King Join Colleagues Calling for Improved Mail Service Protections in Comprehensive Postal Reform Legislation\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tFriday, November 18, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King today joined a bipartisan, bicameral group of more than 80 legislators from the U.S. Senate and U.S. House of Representatives in calling for adding lasting solutions to improve and protect mail delivery and service in comprehensive U.S. Postal Service reform legislation introduced in the House.\r\nIn the letter, which was led by Senators Heidi Heitkamp (D-N.D.) and Jerry Moran (R-Kans.), Senators Collins and King pressed leaders of the House and Senate for better, more reliable mail service \u2013 which is often a critical lifeline for families and businesses across the country in both rural and urban areas. To address a significant decline in U.S. Postal Service performance \u2013 including a complete elimination of the overnight service standard \u2013 as well as mail processing plant consolidations and post office hour reductions, the senators and members called for improvements to the current postal reform legislation in the House so it would better protect and boost the reliability, accountability and transparency of the U.S. Postal Service. The legislators also encouraged the enforcement of improved mail delivery standards in part through continual review of affordable mail service options that will help keep the Postal Service strong for years to come.\r\n\u201cThe Postal Service and its employees play a vital role in our nation,\u201d Senators Collins and King and their colleagues wrote. \u201cIt is essential that we preserve the Postal Service\u2019s commitment to the American public.\u00a0For this reason, improving service needs to be a critical piece of any comprehensive postal reform bill, along with the needed reforms to return the Postal Service to fiscal sustainability.\u00a0Continued poor mail service hurts rural America, businesses, and our economy.\u00a0 Congress should take action to preserve and protect the vibrant institution that is our Postal Service so it, in turn, can help our communities and families truly thrive.\u201d\r\nA copy of the letter can be read HERE.\r\nTogether, the members of Congress are calling on congressional leaders to build on the progress of the current U.S. House of Representatives\u2019 bipartisan Postal Reform Act of 2016, which would help improve the Postal Service\u2019s financial condition. Additionally, the group is pushing for key provisions to strengthen mail service, improve delivery, and protect Postal Service customers, including:\r\n \r\nMaking mail service and delivery more reliable \u2013 The Postal Service needs a performance target system to make sure measurements of mail delivery are accurate across the country in urban and rural communities through an in-depth classification system.\r\n \r\n \r\nImproving accountability and transparency at the Postal Service \u2013 Performance information must be published online and operational plans developed when mail service and delivery targets are not met.\r\n \r\n \r\nBoosting enforcement to make sure the Postal Service meets mail delivery and service standards \u2013 The Postal Service must take action to meet its operational plans and not be able to lower mail service standards to come into compliance with performance targets.\r\nContinuing to review the fiscal state of the Postal Service to help it remain solvent \u2013 Provide regular updates of a long-term solvency plan that would analyze the Postal Service\u2019s finances and make recommendations regarding affordable service options.\r\n \r\nIn addition to Senators Collins, King, Heitkamp, and Moran, the following Senators signed the letter: Claire McCaskill (D-Mo.), Jon Tester (D-Mont.), Roy Blunt (R-Mo.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wisc.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Mark Warner (D-Va.), Pat Roberts (R-Kans.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Steve Daines (R-Mont.), Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.), Al Franken (D-Minn.), Tom Udall (D-N.M.), Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Jeff Merkley (D-Oreg.), Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.), Barbara Mikulski (D-Md.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Ron Wyden (D-Oreg.), Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Bob Casey (D-Penn.), and Chris Coons (D-Del.).\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/bipartisan-bill-cosponsored-by-collins-king-to-protect-northern-border-unanimously-passes-senate", "Bipartisan Bill Cosponsored by Collins, King to Protect Northern Border Unanimously Passes Senate", "2016-11-17", "2016", "2016-11", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Bipartisan Bill Cosponsored by Collins, King to Protect Northern Border Unanimously Passes Senate\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tBill would require examination of threats & needs along Northern Border to improve resources, security\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tThursday, November 17, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King today announced that a bipartisan bill they cosponsored to help assess and strengthen American security at the Northern Border \u2013 the longest common land border in the world \u2013 passed unanimously in the U.S. Senate.\r\nThe bipartisan legislation, the Northern Border Security Review Act, would require the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to conduct a comprehensive examination of the current resources and personnel levels \u2013 as well as fully evaluate security threats and challenges at the border. At 5,500 miles long, including 1,500 miles between Alaska and Canada, the Northern Border has 120 border crossings, many of which are small and in rural areas. \u201cMaine law enforcement officers and border patrol agents are the first line of defense in maintaining the security of our border with Canada and protecting Maine from threats,\u201d Senators Collins and King said in a joint statement. \u201cBy understanding the northern border's needs, strengths, and vulnerabilities, addressing recruiting and retention issues, and ensuring access to critical resources in rural areas, this legislation will play a significant role in bolstering our border security, supporting law enforcement, and keeping Maine citizens safe.\u201dApproximately 300,000 people and $910 million in trade cross the Northern Border every day, representing the largest bilateral flow of goods and people in the world. The Northern Border Security Review Act would require a comprehensive examination of the following issues:\r\n \r\nRecruiting and retaining border security officials to cover the Northern Border, including at more remote areas of the border;\r\nDetermining tools border security officials need to effectively combat drug and human trafficking at the Northern Border;\r\nIdentifying technology that could expand the reach of border agents; and\r\nFinding vulnerabilities in cooperation between Canadian, state, county, local, and tribal law enforcement.\r\n \r\nThe legislation was introduced by Senators Heidi Heitkamp (D-N.D.) and Kelly Ayotte (R-N.H.). Additional cosponsors include Senators Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Ron Johnson (R-Wisc.), Rob Portman (R-Ohio), and Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.). Click here to view a summary of the bill.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-calls-on-appropriations-committee-to-fully-fund-comprehensive-addiction-and-recovery-act", "King Calls on Appropriations Committee to Fully Fund Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act", "2016-11-17", "2016", "2016-11", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "King Calls on Appropriations Committee to Fully Fund Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tlso urges fellow lawmakers to prioritize funding for health and education programs that will benefit Maine people\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tThursday, November 17, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 In the wake of an announcement that Maine has experienced a record number of drug-related deaths this year, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) is calling on the leaders of the Senate Appropriations Committee to fully fund the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act as they work on additional spending bills related to the remainder of the fiscal year. The Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act, which is aimed at bolstering treatment, recovery, education, and prescription monitoring programs to fight the opioid and heroin epidemic raging across Maine and the nation, has not been fully funded by Congress yet. In his letter today, Senator King urged the Appropriations Committee to finally fund the law.\r\n\u201cAs the nation\u2019s opioid epidemic continues to worsen, it is imperative that we fund authorized HHS provisions in the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act (CARA),\u201d Senator King said in his letter, \u201cI believe that the provisions authorized in CARA addressing these issues can make a significant impact. Therefore, I urge you and your colleagues to fund the HHS components in CARA so that we can make progress in addressing this public health crisis.\u201d\r\nSenator King has been a tireless advocate for federal funding to fight the heroin and opioid epidemic that is affecting communities across Maine and the country. As a cosponsor of the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act (CARA), he was encouraged to see the bill signed into law. However, he has repeatedly encouraged his colleagues and the Obama Administration to meet words with action and fully fund CARA programs.\r\nAlong with his call for opioid funding, Senator King\u2019s letter also advocates for additional Maine health and education priorities that either went underfunded or unfunded in the related appropriations bill passed earlier in 2016. Those programs include the Student Support and Academic Enrichment Grants (SSAEG) program, the Assets for Independence (AFI) program, the Medicare State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP), and federal TRIO programs.\r\nThe SSAEG program is a formula-funded block grant intended to support school districts in their efforts to bolster student learning and success. SSAEG is designed in part to provide specific funding for education technology and professional development opportunities for teachers using technology in the classroom.\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0\r\nThe AFI program helps low-income workers save money and build assets for the future. It has made a significant difference in Maine and provides tens of thousands of families across the country with support and financial education to help lift them out of poverty.\r\nSHIP-funded programs provide one-on-one assistance to millions of Medicare beneficiaries throughout America.\u00a0 Because signing up for Medicare can be complicated, this support can be critical to making sure beneficiaries receive coverage that fits their needs.\r\nBy enabling low-income and first-generation college students to succeed in postsecondary education, TRIO programs work to end generational cycles of poverty. In Maine, 6,000 students benefit from the TRIO programs each year.\r\nSenator King\u2019s letter to appropriators is available HERE and the text is below:\r\n+++\r\nNovember 17, 2016\r\nThe Honorable Thad Cochran\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 The Honorable Barbara Mikulski\r\nChairman\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Vice Chairwoman\r\nCommittee on Appropriations\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Committee on Appropriations\r\nUnited States Senate\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 United States Senate\r\nWashington, DC 20510\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Washington, DC 20510\r\nDear Chairman Cochran and Vice Chairwoman Mikulski,\r\nAs you work with your colleagues in the House of Representatives to make additional spending decisions related to Fiscal Year 2017, I urge you to prioritize a few key items in the jurisdiction of the Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies (Labor-HHS) Subcommittee. The items I highlight below would have a tremendous impact in Maine and deserve your full consideration.\u00a0\r\n \r\nFull Funding for the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act. As the nation\u2019s opioid epidemic continues to worsen, it is imperative that we fund authorized HHS provisions in the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act (CARA). While I am encouraged that the Senate Appropriations Committee\u2019s Labor-HHS FY17 bill provides $261 million to combat opioid abuse, an increase of 93 percent from FY16, funding for CARA will further bolster our response by expanding access to treatment, recovery services and education programs, overdose reversal medication, as well as strengthening or establishing new prescription drug monitoring programs (PDMPs). I believe that the provisions authorized in CARA addressing these issues can make a significant impact. Therefore, I urge you and your colleagues to fund the HHS components in CARA so that we can make progress in addressing this public health crisis.\r\n \r\nIn addition to providing funding to fight the opioid epidemic, I ask that you give attention to four additional priorities that were either underfunded or unfunded in the Labor-HHS Subcommittee bill that passed the Senate Appropriations Committee earlier this year. These priorities are:\r\n \r\nFull Funding for Student Support and Academic Enrichment Grants. Title IV-A of the bipartisan Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) authorized the Student Support and Academic Enrichment Grants (SSAEG) program, which consolidates more than 20 existing education programs into a single, formula-funded block grant. The intention of this grant is to support school districts in a range of critical programs and services that enrich student learning and success, including providing students with access to education technology as well as professional development opportunities for educators using technology in the classroom. \r\n \r\nIn recognition of the broad range of supports funded by the SSAEG program, ESSA authorized SSAEG at $1.65 billion for FY17. Unfortunately, the Committee-approved Labor-HHS bill funds the program at just $300 million, dramatically less than what was authorized. If this low funding level is carried over into a final FY17 funding bill, states and school districts will find it extremely challenging to implement high-quality programming that promotes the range of opportunities SSAEG is intended to support. Underfunding this program in its first year would set a troubling precedent and run counter to the intent of the program\u2019s authorizers, who intended a robust funding level that would enable a meaningful distribution of funds across our nation\u2019s school districts.\r\nSmall districts like those in Maine would be particularly impacted by insufficient SSAEG distributions. The House Appropriations Committee approved FY17 SSAEG funding at $1 billion \u2013 much closer to the recommendation in ESSA. I strongly urge you and your colleagues to increase the SSAEG allocation to ensure that implementation of the new education law is a success.\u00a0\r\n \r\nContinued Funding for the Assets for Independence Program. The Assets for Independence (AFI) program, which funds and supports Individual Development Accounts nationwide, is a critical program that helps low-income workers save money and build assets for the future. Unfortunately, your committee moved to defund the AFI program in its FY17 Labor-HHS bill. The AFI program has made a real difference in my home state of Maine and provides tens of thousands of families across the country with the support and financial education to help them leave poverty behind for good, and I continue to believe that a modest ongoing federal investment in the program will reap significant rewards. To that end, I strongly urge you and your colleagues to reinstate funding for AFI in any longer-term FY17 funding bill.\r\n \r\n \r\nContinued Funding for the Medicare State Health Insurance Assistance Program. SHIP-funded programs provide one-on-one assistance to millions of Medicare beneficiaries across the country. Due to the complex nature of signing up for Medicare, the support provided by SHIP is vital to ensuring these beneficiaries receive coverage that fits their needs. These personalized services surpass what is offered by other programs, such as 1-800-MEDICARE and Medicare.gov, particularly for beneficiaries who live in rural areas or have complex chronic care needs. I was disappointed to see that your committee proposed eliminating funding for this program altogether. As the House Appropriations Committee approved level funding for SHIP at $52.1 million, I strongly encourage you and your colleagues to consider doing the same.\r\n \r\n \r\nIncreased Funding for Federal TRIO Programs. As our country looks for ways to increase economic growth amidst a slow recovery from the Great Recession, it is important that we increase the number of disadvantaged students entering higher education. The TRIO programs are key to these efforts and are aimed at ending generational cycles of poverty by enabling low-income and first-generation college students to succeed in postsecondary education, putting them on a path to a prosperous future. Over 6,000 Maine students benefit from the TRIO programs each year. I visit with groups of them annually, and I am consistently inspired by their compelling stories and impressive success. I am pleased to see that your committee approved level funding of $900 million to support federal TRIO programs in FY17. Given that the House Appropriations Committee approved an increase in TRIO funding, to $960 million, I respectfully request that you consider additional investments to broaden the reach of TRIO programs to students across the country.\r\n \r\nI understand that many challenging questions face you and your colleagues as additional spending decisions are made regarding the remainder of Fiscal Year 2017. I appreciate your consideration of these requests and look forward to working together in the coming weeks and months to continue our support for these vital programs and services.\r\nSincerely,\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-lankford-urge-president-elect-trump-to-quickly-nominate-director-of-national-intelligence", "King, Lankford Urge President-elect Trump to Quickly Nominate Director of National Intelligence", "2016-11-17", "2016", "2016-11", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "King, Lankford Urge President-elect Trump to Quickly Nominate Director of National Intelligence\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tThursday, November 17, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senators Angus King (I-Maine) and James Lankford (R-Okla.), members of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, today sent a letter to President-elect Donald Trump urging him to prioritize the nomination of the next Director of National Intelligence (DNI) and to select an experienced, collaborative individual who can advise on the nominations of other intelligence agency leaders.\r\n\u201cA successful DNI makes the intelligence community more efficient, more collaborative, limits redundancies, and advances seamless information sharing across our intelligence agencies,\u201d Senators King and Lankford wrote in their letter. \u201cAs members of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, we strongly encourage you to nominate an experienced DNI that can serve these functions and build an intelligence community leadership team that will put a high value on collaboration.\u00a0 Most importantly, if selected early, your DNI could advise on candidates for directors of the intelligence agencies he or she will work with most often.\u201d\r\nThe complete text of the letter can be read HERE and is below:\r\n+++\r\nNovember 17, 2016\r\n\r\nThe Honorable Donald J. Trump\r\nThe President-elect\r\n1717 Pennsylvania Avenue NW\r\nWashington, DC\u00a0 20006\r\n\r\nDear Mr. Trump:\r\nCongratulations on your recent election.\u00a0 As you undertake the important work of preparing for the presidential transition and your future intelligence team, we are writing to ask that you prioritize the nomination of the next Director of National Intelligence (DNI).\u00a0\r\nIn response to the 9/11 attacks, Congress created the position of the DNI to serve as the head of the intelligence community and establish an integrated framework to promote a more effective intelligence apparatus for our country.\u00a0 A successful DNI makes the intelligence community more efficient, more collaborative, limits redundancies, and advances seamless information sharing across our intelligence agencies.\u00a0\r\nAs members of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, we strongly encourage you to nominate an experienced DNI that can serve these functions and build an intelligence community leadership team that will put a high value on collaboration.\u00a0 Most importantly, if selected early, your DNI could advise on candidates for directors of the intelligence agencies he or she will work with most often.\r\nThank you for your attention to this important matter.\u00a0 We look forward to carefully considering all of your intelligence community nominees.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-again-pushes-social-security-administration-to-improve-disability-programs-to-support-maine-people_", "King Again Pushes Social Security Administration to Improve Disability Programs to Support Maine People", "2016-11-16", "2016", "2016-11", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "King Again Pushes Social Security Administration to Improve Disability Programs to Support Maine People  \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tUrges SSA to improve disability review process, address 15.5 month wait times for SSDI and SSI hearings in Maine \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, November 16, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) sent a letter to the Social Security Administration (SSA) expressing support for the agency\u2019s effort to reduce the considerable wait times that people with disabilities experience when applying for programs that can help them support themselves and, when possible, reenter the workforce. In his letter, which is part of his ongoing effort to support Americans with disabilities, Senator King also offered several suggestions as to how the administration can improve their proposal.\r\n\u201cMany people spend the application period for disability benefits impoverished, at risk of failing health, and facing an uncertain future. [\u2026] This delay can cause significant adversity for people who are waiting,\u201d said Senator King in his letter. \u201cShould SSA account for the concerns that I have outlined above, I believe that a final rule based on this NPRM will be a valuable step forward. I look forward to continuing to work with you to improve the disability review process so that people with work-limiting disabilities are treated fairly and their applications are handled efficiently.\u201d\r\nThe SSA is currently working on a notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) to improve the procedures used to review applicants for the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) programs. SSDI and SSI provide critical support for people with disabilities in Maine and around the country, but unfortunately, applicants often face substantial wait times that cause hardship and uncertainty. For example, the average wait time for applicants in Maine 15.5 months from the time they request an appeals hearing at the Portland SSA hearing office to the date that it takes place.\r\nSeveral of the proposals included in the NPRM were similar to suggestions made by Senator King in a 2015 disability whitepaper. However, Senator King urged SSA to adjust some of those proposals to promote a faster appeals process and increase efficiency. For instance, Senator King has suggested a 75-day advance hearing notice for SSDI and SSI applicants along with a requirement that applicants submit evidence of their disability at least five days before their hearing. While the NPRM mirrors Senator King\u2019s proposals in several ways \u2013 including a 60-day advance hearing notice \u2013 Senator King believes slight adjustments should be made to strengthen the impact of the proposed changes. Those suggested adjustments include changing the 60-day notice to 75 days, and including a good-cause exemption to the 5-day pre-hearing evidence submission requirement for applicants that is clearly defined, consistently enforced, and applied to the full range of submissions.\r\nSenator King\u2019s letter today follows a disability roundtable last summer where he heard directly from Mainers, after which he has worked with SSA to improve the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) programs. He published a whitepaper last November with his proposals to help Mainers with disabilities enter the workforce.\r\nThe letter is available HERE and the full text is below:\r\n+++\r\nNovember 16, 2016\r\nThe Honorable Carolyn W. Colvin\r\nActing Commissioner\r\nSocial Security Administration\r\n6401 Security Boulevard\r\nBaltimore, MD 21235\r\nDear Acting Commissioner Colvin:\r\nI write today to offer feedback on the Social Security Administration\u2019s (SSA) notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM) that would revise procedures used in SSA\u2019s administrative review of applications to the Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) programs. It is clear that changes must be made to the application process for these programs to improve the timeliness of determinations, so I appreciate the intent of the NPRM (SSA-2014-0052) to improve and standardize the operation of appeals hearings and Appeals Council reviews nationwide.\r\nMaine has a particular interest in the NPRM, not only because it would mark a nationwide rollout of some of the procedures currently being tested in SSA\u2019s Region I\u2014which encompasses New England\u2014but also because of the substantial wait times that Maine SSDI applicants experience. Claimants with substantial disabilities should not be forced to wait months or years for a final determination of their eligibility. Many people spend the application period for disability benefits impoverished, at risk of failing health, and facing an uncertain future.\u00a0\r\nApplicants in Maine wait an average of 15.5 months from the time they request an appeals hearing at the Portland SSA hearing office to the date that it takes place.[1] This delay can cause significant adversity for people who are waiting, as successful SSDI applicants have little to no earnings during the application process. Compounding this hardship is the fact that the hearing is only one part of a multi-stage determination process that can stretch for well over a year, if not longer.\u00a0\r\nBecause of these lengthy application processing times and the high rate of SSDI receipt in Maine, last fall I held a roundtable in Maine to discuss improvements to the SSDI program and I subsequently released a whitepaper that proposes a set of policy changes, including some of those in the NPRM. One of the proposals common to the NPRM and the whitepaper is to increase the amount of advance notice provided to applicants about hearings before an Administrative Law Judge (ALJ), in an effort to provide applicants ample time to assemble medical evidence prior to their hearing. While I was glad to see this provision included in the NPRM, I hope that a final rule will include a 75-day advance notice, rather than the 60-day notice that SSA has proposed. Both the Bipartisan Policy Center\u2019s Disability Insurance Working Group[2] and ALJs and Hearing Office Directors surveyed by the Administrative Conference of the United States[3] support adopting the 75-day notice policy that has been piloted in Region I, so I respectfully request that SSA consider this feedback and adopt a nationwide 75-day notice requirement in the final rule.\r\nAnother aspect of the NPRM that is largely in line with what I proposed in my whitepaper is the plan to encourage applicants\u2019 submission of evidence at least five business days prior to an appeals hearing. Applying this rule nationwide should, in tandem with the 75-day advance notice requirement discussed above, lead to evidentiary records that are more complete on the hearing date, thereby improving the fairness and efficiency of the adjudicative process. SSA must ensure, however, that the final version of this requirement is structured so that applicants who are unable to provide evidence in advance of the deadline due to reasons outside their control\u2014e.g., status as an unrepresented claimant or delayed responses from medical providers to timely record requests\u2014are not denied the chance to have the full slate of relevant evidence accounted for in the appeals process.\r\nAdditionally, given feedback provided both by ALJs[4] and claimant representatives[5] in Maine about uneven enforcement of the rule during the Region I pilot, both the general parameters of the five-day rule and the bounds of the good cause exception must be clearly defined in the final rule so that ALJs will apply them consistently within and across hearing offices and regions. This exception should also be included in the proposed five-day rule for written statements, as it is reportedly not uncommon for SSA to have yet to mark submitted evidence as exhibits in advance of the five-day deadline, which hinders representatives\u2019 ability to draft a constructive statement.[6] For the sake of consistency, it would be worthwhile to provide the exception for subpoena requests and objections as well. The five-day rule can, if it includes adequate exceptions and is evenly enforced, improve the efficiency of the adjudication process while protecting the rights of claimants.\r\nI support your agency\u2019s efforts to promote a faster appeals process that improves administrative efficiency while remaining fair. Should SSA account for the concerns that I have outlined above, I believe that a final rule based on this NPRM will be a valuable step forward. I look forward to continuing to work with you to improve the disability review process so that people with work-limiting disabilities are treated fairly and their applications are handled efficiently. Should you have any questions about this letter, please direct your staff to contact Aisha Woodward or Will Woodworth in my office at 202-224-5344.\r\nSincerely,\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-applauds-decision-to-immediately-allow-qualified-nurse-practitioners-and-physician-assistants-to-provide-life-saving-medication-in-fight-against-opioid-epidemic_", "King Applauds Decision to Immediately Allow Qualified Nurse Practitioners and Physician Assistants to Provide Life Saving Medication in Fight Against Opioid Epidemic", "2016-11-16", "2016", "2016-11", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "King Applauds Decision to Immediately Allow Qualified Nurse Practitioners and Physician Assistants to Provide Life Saving Medication in Fight Against Opioid Epidemic  \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, November 16, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) today applauded an announcement from the U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration that nurse practitioners (NPs) and physician assistants (PAs) can immediately begin taking the 24-hours of required training to prescribe the opioid use disorder treatment, buprenorphine. Earlier this year, Senator King convened a roundtable with nurse practitioners in Bangor that focused on the importance of allowing NPs and PAs to provide the medication-assisted treatment.\r\n\u201cI am pleased that SAMHSA has moved forward with this critical decision. Trained and qualified nurse practitioners and physician assistants are eager to treat their patients rather than watch them languish on wait lists,\u201d Senator King said. \u201cGiven the high demand for medication-assisted treatment and the devastating effects the opioid epidemic is having in Maine, this is a crucial step forward for those desperately seeking treatment and will undoubtedly help save lives.\u201d\r\nNPs and PAs who complete the required training and seek to prescribe buprenorphine for up to 30 patients will be able to apply to do so beginning in early 2017. Previously, only physicians could prescribe buprenorphine. Once NPs and PAs receive their waiver, they can begin prescribing buprenorphine immediately.\r\nIn Maine, approximately 13,500 people received a prescription for buprenorphine last year as part of their recovery. However, despite the high demand for medication-assisted treatment, there are only 214 doctors actively prescribing it in the state.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-backs-bill-to-protect-maine-small-businesses-non-profits-from-harmful-effects-of-overtime-rule", "King Backs Bill to Protect Maine Small Businesses, Non-Profits from Harmful Effects of Overtime Rule", "2016-11-16", "2016", "2016-11", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "King Backs Bill to Protect Maine Small Businesses, Non-Profits from Harmful Effects of Overtime Rule\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tSends letter to President Obama urging the Administration to support legislation as a responsible path to ensure that wages are raised without overburdening Maine businesses\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, November 16, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) today announced his support for legislation introduced by Senator Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn.) that would extend the timeline for the implementation of the Obama Administration\u2019s overtime rule to ease compliance on small businesses and non-profits. Senator King followed his co-sponsorship of the legislation today by also sending a letter to President Obama that criticizes the Administration for not doing more to mitigate the detrimental impacts of the rule and requesting that the Administration support the legislation as a responsible path to increase overtime pay without overburdening small businesses and non-profits in Maine and across the country.\r\n\u201cI have previously communicated with your Administration regarding my serious concerns about the Department of Labor\u2019s (DOL) proposal. While I support the goal of raising the wages of all Americans, the approach taken in the final rule will present a substantial hardship to many Maine small businesses, nonprofits, institutions of higher education, and Medicare- or Medicaid-dependent service providers. The new salary threshold of $47,476 may work well in wealthier, densely-populated areas of the country, but the more than 100 percent increase to the new threshold in one step is too dramatic an increase for Maine employers to absorb,\u201d Senator King wrote in his letter.\r\n\u201cBecause the final rule does not reflect the realities of many of the rural economies in the United States, this week I cosponsored S. 3464, the Overtime Reform and Review Act, introduced by Senator Lamar Alexander.\u2026While I believe that there are several potential approaches your Administration or Congress could take to moderate the impact of the overtime rule, I have concluded that this legislation sets forth a reasonable approach to providing employers with a more manageable implementation schedule while still ensuring that millions of hardworking Americans are fairly compensated for their time on the job,\u201d Senator King continued. \u201cThere are only a few weeks left before the final rule takes effect. As you look to cement your legacy on this issue and to ensure smooth implementation for employers in Maine and across the country, I strongly urge you to offer support for S.3464 or similar legislation that would provide employers with a more realistic timeline to increase salaries for workers and ensure that your goal of raising the overtime threshold is fully realized.\u201d\r\nThe legislation cosponsored by Senator King today \u2013 the Overtime Reform and Review Act \u2013 would stretch out over five years the Administration\u2019s increase in the salary threshold for overtime pay from $23,660 to $47,476, which is now set to more than double at once on December 1. The bill would also require an independent government watchdog study of the rule after the first year of implementation, and if the rule is found to negatively impact American workers and our economy, non-profits \u2013 including colleges and universities \u2013 along with state and local governments and many Medicaid- and Medicare-eligible facilities such as nursing homes or facilities serving individuals with disabilities would be exempt from any further increases under the rule.\r\nWhile Senator King supports a reasonable update to the overtime threshold, he has been an outspoken critic of the Obama Administration\u2019s overtime proposal. In April, Senator King sent a letter to President Obama expressing his deep concern that the proposed rule would adversely affect small businesses in rural states like Maine and create unintended consequences that could result in reduced hours and benefits for impacted employees.\r\nSpecifically, the Overtime Reform and Review Act would:\r\n \r\nChange the implementation timeline for the administration\u2019s overtime rule \u2013 rather than increasing the salary threshold under which employees qualify for overtime pay from $23,660 to $47,476 on December 1, 2016, the bill would instead direct the administration to make increases in four stages over a five-year period to give American workplaces time to adjust to the rule;\r\n \r\n \r\nProhibit an increase to the overtime pay threshold in 2017, giving employers and employees an opportunity to adjust to the new level while an independent government watchdog \u2013 the Government Accountability Office (GAO) \u2013 studies the impact of the rule on American workers after the first year of implementation;\r\n \r\n \r\nPrevent future automatic increases to the overtime threshold. Under the new rule, increases are set to occur automatically every three years starting in 2020; Similar bipartisan legislation introduced in the House of Representatives by Representative Kurt Schrader (D-OR-5) also eliminates the indexing provision.\r\n \r\n \r\nRequire the Department of Labor and the Small Business Administration Office of Advocacy to work together, using GAO\u2019s independent report, to certify that the 2016 increase under the rule did not increase part-time work, or negatively impact workplace flexibility, workplace benefits, career advancement opportunity, or job growth; Unless these government agencies certify that none of these negative consequences occurred, non-profit organizations\u2014including colleges and universities\u2014as well as state and local governments, and workplaces that receive more than half of their revenue from Medicare or Medicaid payments \u2013 such as nursing homes or facilities serving individuals with disabilities \u2013 will automatically be exempt from the rule\u2019s remaining increases.\r\n \r\nThe legislation has been endorsed by the Maine State Chamber of Commerce, the Retail Association of Maine, the Maine Restaurant Association, the Maine Innkeepers Association, the Maine Tourism Association, the Maine Society for Human Resource Management State Council, the Maine Association of Broadcasters, and the Maine Insurance Agents Association.\r\n\u201cThe Retail Association of Maine is very happy that Senator King is taking a leadership role in finding a more reasonable middle ground on the new overtime regulations,\u201d said Curtis Picard, Executive Director of the Retail Association of Maine. \u201cHis co-sponsorship of Senator Alexander\u2019s bill and his letter to the President are critical to Maine's small businesses and non-profits that are being hit hard by these new regulations that will take effect on December 1. We are hopeful that more Senators follow Senator King's lead in the coming days.\u201d\r\nThe Overtime Reform and Review Act was introduced by Senators Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn.), James Lankford (R-Okla.), Tim Scott (R-S.C.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), and Jeff Flake (R-Ariz.) on September 30, 2016. The DOL\u2019s overtime rule is set to take effect on December 1, 2016. Absent congressional or administrative action before December 1, any substantive changes to the overtime rule will need to either go through a multi-month rulemaking process in the next administration or be enacted through legislation that passes in the new Congress.\r\nThe complete text of Senator King\u2019s letter to President Obama can be read HERE and is below:\r\n+++\r\nNovember 16, 2016\r\nThe Honorable Barack Obama\r\nThe White House\r\n1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW\r\nWashington, DC 20500\r\n\r\nDear Mr. President:\r\nI write today regarding the forthcoming implementation of the Department of Labor\u2019s Final Rule Defining and Delimiting the Exemption for Executive, Administrative, and Professional Employees, which is set to take effect on December 1, 2016. In recognizing that the possibility for additional administrative changes to the final rule may be limited, I strongly urge you to support congressional efforts to phase in the new overtime threshold over several years in order to ease implementation for employers and more firmly cement your legacy on this issue.\r\nI have previously communicated with your Administration regarding my serious concerns about the Department of Labor\u2019s (DOL) proposal. While I support the goal of raising the wages of all Americans, the approach taken in the final rule will present a substantial hardship to many Maine small businesses, nonprofits, institutions of higher education, and Medicare- or Medicaid-dependent service providers. The new salary threshold of $47,476 may work well in wealthier, densely-populated areas of the country, but the more than 100 percent increase to the new threshold in one step is too dramatic an increase for Maine employers to absorb.\r\nIn a letter dated April 12, 2016, I asked your Administration to consider several ways to alter its draft rule in order to allow for both an increase to the overtime threshold as well as a much less negative impact on employers in more rural and lower-wage areas of the country. In particular, I asked that your Administration consider phasing in the new salary threshold over several years, in the same way that Congress often elects to phase in increases to the minimum wage. I also asked your Administration to rethink the new salary threshold it had proposed and to consider a threshold that more accurately reflects regional economic differences in median household incomes. In addition, I suggested that the rule\u2019s reviewers abandon the proposal to automatically update the overtime threshold in future years through indexing it to inflation or wage growth. Finally, given the complexities associated with implementation of the rule, I requested that your Administration provide businesses with at least one year to come into compliance with the final rule.\r\nUnfortunately, the DOL\u2019s final rule did not meaningfully reflect any of these suggestions. While the final salary threshold was slightly lower than that of the proposed rule, the $47,476 threshold is still too significant an increase for most Maine employers to absorb in one step. The final rule\u2019s inclusion of an automatic update every three years will also present numerous challenges to employers, and the limited timeline for implementation \u2013 six months \u2013 has meant that many employers in Maine and across the country are ill-prepared to come into compliance with the new rule, particularly during the busy holiday season.\u00a0\r\nBecause the final rule does not reflect the realities of many of the rural economies in the United States, this week I cosponsored S. 3464, the Overtime Reform and Review Act, introduced by Senator Lamar Alexander. This bill would phase in the new overtime threshold over several years and provide policymakers with additional analysis of the rule\u2019s impact on small businesses, nonprofits, colleges and universities, and service providers dependent upon federal funding. While I believe that there are several potential approaches your Administration or Congress could take to moderate the impact of the overtime rule, I have concluded that this legislation sets forth a reasonable approach to providing employers with a more manageable implementation schedule while still ensuring that millions of hardworking Americans are fairly compensated for their time on the job.\r\nThere are only a few weeks left before the final rule takes effect. As you look to cement your legacy on this issue and to ensure smooth implementation for employers in Maine and across the country, I strongly urge you to offer support for S.3464 or similar legislation that would provide employers with a more realistic timeline to increase salaries for workers and ensure that your goal of raising the overtime threshold is fully realized. I also urge you to explore any possible action that your Administration could take in its final weeks in office to ease implementation for employers who are struggling to come into compliance with the new rule.\r\nAmericans across the country are eager to see their wages go up, and a reasonable increase to the overtime threshold could help to achieve that goal. In its current form, however, the DOL\u2019s overtime rule will fail to have the impact that has been promised and will create many administrative challenges for employers across the country. I ask that you give serious consideration to this request and consider any legislative or administrative remedy that could facilitate a more reasonable adjustment to the overtime threshold.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-urges-va-education-departments-to-relieve-disabled-veterans-of-unnecessary-student-loan-payments", "King Urges VA, Education Departments to Relieve Disabled Veterans of Unnecessary Student Loan Payments", "2016-11-14", "2016", "2016-11", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "King Urges VA, Education Departments to Relieve Disabled Veterans of Unnecessary Student Loan Payments\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tSays Congress must also pass legislation inspired by Maine family to end unfair tax penalty on student loan forgiveness for disabled Americans and those coping with the death of a child\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tMonday, November 14, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u00a0\u2013 U.S. Senators Angus King (I-Maine), Rob Portman (R-Ohio), and Chris Coons (D-Del.) today sent a letter to the Secretaries of Veterans Affairs (VA) and Education, urging them to ensure that any veteran who is permanently disabled is discharged of their federal student loan debt. Such a discharge is allowed under current law, but the lack of coordination between the Department of Education (ED) and the VA is leaving behind potentially thousands of veterans who could otherwise have their loans discharged. Senators King, Portman, and Coons specifically urged the Departments to conduct a data match to identify permanently disabled veterans with outstanding student debt. This letter follows language the senators successfully included in the recently-enacted Fiscal Year 2017 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act which urges the VA and ED to conduct such a match.\r\n\u201cEarlier this year, ED and SSA conducted a data match that resulted in the identification of approximately 389,000 Social Security Disability Insurance beneficiaries who are eligible for discharge of their federal student loans \u2013 nearly half of whom were in default on their loans,\u201d Senator King and his colleagues wrote in their letter. \u201cThis kind of streamlining is a critical to protecting Americans with permanent and total disabilities from unnecessary financial hardship, but was limited to the two agencies in question. We believe the VA and ED should conduct a similar data match to ensure no veterans are denied the benefits for which they are qualified.\u201d\r\nSenators King, Portman, and Coons also said that Congress must pass legislation they introduced earlier this year \u2013 the Stop Taxing Death and Disability Act \u2013 which was inspired by the tragic story of a Maine family and would end the Internal Revenue Service\u2019s misguided policy of collecting taxes on discharged federal student loans following death or disability.\r\nThe complete text of the letter can be read HERE and is below:\r\n+++\r\nNovember 14, 2016\r\n\r\nThe Honorable Robert A. McDonald\r\nSecretary of Veterans Affairs\r\n810 Vermont Avenue, NW\r\nWashington, D.C. 20571\r\n\r\nThe Honorable John B. King Jr.\r\nSecretary of Education\r\n400 Maryland Avenue, SW\r\nWashington, D.C. 20202\r\n\u00a0\u00a0\r\nDear Secretary McDonald and Secretary King,\r\nWe write to urge the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and the Department of Education (ED) to streamline the disability verification process to ensure that any veteran who is permanently disabled is discharged of their federal student loan debt. Such a discharge is allowed under current law, but the lack of coordination between ED and the VA is leaving behind potentially thousands of veterans who could otherwise have their loans forgiven.\r\nSection 437(a) of the Higher Education Act allows student loan borrowers who develop a permanent disability to have their federal student loans forgiven by the Department of Education. This student loan forgiveness also applies to veterans who have been determined by the VA to be unemployable due to a service-connected disability. To verify an individual\u2019s eligibility for student loan forgiveness under the law, ED requires documentation from the Social Security Administration (SSA) or the VA regarding the borrower\u2019s disability status. However, many disabled Americans have found the process to discharge these loans confusing and burdensome, discouraging them from following through with the process and leaving them to pay off student loans they otherwise would not be required to under law.\r\nEarlier this year, ED and SSA conducted a data match that resulted in the identification of approximately 389,000 Social Security Disability Insurance beneficiaries who are eligible for discharge of their federal student loans \u2013 nearly half of whom were in default on their loans. This kind of streamlining is critical to protecting Americans with permanent and total disabilities from unnecessary financial hardship, but was limited to the two agencies in question. We believe the VA and ED should conduct a similar data match to ensure no veterans are denied the benefits for which they are qualified.\r\nCongress recently recognized the complexity of the loan discharge process for veterans with a service-connected disability. At our urging, the explanatory statement that accompanies the recently-enacted FY17 Military Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act directs the VA to enter into a data matching program with ED to improve coordination between federal agencies and eliminate the administrative hurdles that prevent too many veterans from receiving the loan forgiveness they deserve.[1] We urge you to act swiftly upon this recommendation from Congress. \u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0\r\nImproving the loan discharge process for borrowers with disabilities does not end with administrative streamlining \u2013 there is more to be done, and Congress must act. Under current law, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) treats the amount of student loans forgiven as income, which must be reported on an individual\u2019s tax return and could potentially result in a tax liability. Instead of helping veterans and their families through loan forgiveness, this misguided policy simply replaces one financial burden with another, as some families are hit with thousands of dollars in immediate tax liability. That is why we have introduced legislation to exempt loans discharged due to disability or death from being treated as income \u2013 the Stop Taxing Death and Disability Act (S. 2800).\u00a0While we continue to work to ensure that this legislation becomes law, the VA and ED should work together to make veterans aware of this potential liability prior to discharging student loans.\r\nWe appreciate your attention to this important matter.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/on-veterans-day-king-pays-tribute-to-maine-veterans", "On Veterans Day, King Pays Tribute to Maine Veterans", "2016-11-11", "2016", "2016-11", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "On Veterans Day, King Pays Tribute to Maine Veterans\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tFriday, November 11, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWATERVILLE, ME \u2013 U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) released the following statement today in honor of Veterans Day:\r\n\u201cVeterans Day holds a sacred place in our history as a Nation, and in turn, has become a dedicated occasion to commemorate all those in our community who bravely wore and continue to wear the uniform to protect our safety and security. The people of Maine have long embraced this duty, and our state has a hallowed history of sending our sons and daughters to bravely defend the safety, security, and values of the United States of America. This spirit of service is evidenced not only in the willingness to wear the uniform, but also in the steadfast commitment of the Maine people to care for those who have returned.\u00a0\r\n\u201cI am humbled to join people throughout Maine and across the country in honoring the selfless service of our Veterans, and in recognizing the eternal debt we owe them and their dedicated families. There is still a great deal of work to be done for veterans who struggle with access to healthcare, suffer with unemployment and poverty, or are unable to find affordable housing, and we will strive on in that work. Today, let us join together to honor our brave veterans \u2013 and to lend credence to their sacrifices \u2013 by reaffirming our commitment to supporting each and every one of them.\u201d\r\nSenator King today joined the Lewiston High School Air Force Junior ROTC Cadets for a Veterans Breakfast in Lewiston, delivered remarks at the Foster-Carroll American Legion Post 72 Veterans Day Ceremony in South Paris, and participated in the Veteran Mentors of Maine Pig Roast in Waterville. Each event honors the service and sacrifice of Maine veterans.\r\nPhoto 1: Senator King at the Veterans Breakfast held by the Lewiston High School Air Force Junior ROTC Cadets.\r\nPhoto 2: Senator King with American Legion Service Officer Rick Nugent. \r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-20-million-department-of-education-grant-for-spurwink-services-in-maine-", "Collins, King Announce $20 Million Department of Education Grant for Spurwink Services in Maine", "2016-11-10", "2016", "2016-11", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Collins, King Announce $20 Million Department of Education Grant for Spurwink Services in Maine \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tThursday, November 10, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced that Spurwink Services in Portland has been awarded a five-year, $20 million Investing in Innovation (i3) Scale-up grant from the Department of Education.\u00a0 The funding will support Spurwink\u2019s expansion of its Building Assets, Reducing Risks (BARR) model that aims to improve student academic achievement in high schools. Senators Collins and King wrote a letter in July supporting Spurwink\u2019s grant application.\r\n\u201cSpurwink and its partners have\u00a0been doing great work through its innovative BARR model to help bolster student achievement, which is why we supported their grant application to the Department of Education,\u201d said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. \u201cThis grant funding will allow Spurwink to expand on that positive impact for students and educators at schools in Maine and across the country.\u201d\u00a0\r\n\u201cSpurwink is really pleased to be able to provide the fundamental organizational and fiscal services necessary to scale up this very effective BARR model\u201d, explains Spurwink President and CEO Eric Meyer, LCSW, MBA. \u201cIn Maine, the BARR model benefits from the ongoing behavioral health supports that Spurwink provides in public schools, helping students develop their social and emotional skills and engage more fully in learning.\u201d\r\nSpurwink\u2019s BARR model aims to help educators connect with their students and promote student engagement. This evidence-based, whole school reform model has helped to transform school culture and student outcomes. It has demonstrated significant results in increasing credits and standardized tests scores for students in historically low-performing schools.\r\nWith this grant funding, Spurwink plans to expand the BARR program to an additional 161 schools. The grant will also support a randomized controlled trial study of the BARR model in 66 low-performing schools.\r\nThe i3 grant fund provides support to local education agencies and nonprofit organizations that partner with other local education agencies or schools. Scale-up grants require strong evidence and aim to bring proven programs to the national, regional or state scale.\u00a0\r\nSpurwink is a nationally accredited nonprofit organization that provides a broad range of education and behavioral health services for children, adolescents, adults, and families.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-and-king-and-representative-poliquin-announce-taa-benefits-for-workers-at-twin-rivers-paper", "Senators Collins and King and Representative Poliquin Announce TAA Benefits for Workers at Twin Rivers Paper", "2016-11-10", "2016", "2016-11", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Senators Collins and King and Representative Poliquin Announce TAA Benefits for Workers at Twin Rivers Paper\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tThursday, November 10, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\u00a0\r\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Today, U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King and Representative Bruce Poliquin announced that the U.S. Department of Labor has approved much-needed Trade Adjustment Assistance (TAA) for displaced employees at Twin Rivers Paper Company.\r\nIn July, Senators Collins and King and Representative Poliquin sent a letter to U.S. Department of Labor Secretary Thomas Perez in support of the TAA petition, which was filed in advance of the Madawaska mill shutting down one of its five paper machines.TAA benefits have also been extended to some former Madison Paper workers who were not included in an initial TAA certification granted when the mill closed last spring, including on-site contractors.\r\n\u201cThis announcement is welcome news for the hardworking men and women at Twin Rivers who have, through no fault of their own, lost their jobs as a result of foreign competition,\u201d said Senators Collins and King and Representative Poliquin in a joint statement. \u201cTAA programs provide a crucial lifeline that enables displaced workers to acquire the new skills and training necessary to prepare for and pursue jobs in other industries so they can get back on their feet more quickly and continue making critical contributions to Maine\u2019s communities and economy.\u201d\r\nTAA is a program of the Department of Labor that helps workers who have lost their jobs as a result of increased imports or a shift of production outside of the United States. TAA provides these trade-affected workers with a variety of reemployment services and benefits to help them find new jobs and get back to work.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-statement-on-the-presidential-election", "King Statement on the Presidential Election", "2016-11-09", "2016", "2016-11", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "King Statement on the Presidential Election\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, November 9, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tBRUNSWICK, ME \u2013 U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) released the following statement today on the election of Donald Trump as President of the United States:\r\n\u201cAs this campaign for the presidency draws to a close, I am hopeful that the President-elect and Congress can work together to write a new chapter in American history \u2013 one that begins and ends with the healing of our great national divide, a chasm that has seemingly only grown throughout the course of this long and bruising campaign.\r\n\u201cThis task will require each of us \u2013 regardless of our politics, our religious affiliation, our skin color, our income, or any of our other differences \u2013 to summon \u2018the better angels of our nature\u2019, as President Lincoln once said, to look to one another with compassion and understanding, to view each other as neighbors rather than adversaries, to recognize that we are bound by a greater strength than the differences that attempt to pull us apart.\r\n\u201cIt will be difficult, but it is achievable \u2013 because, after all, this is the story of America: a story of difficulties overcome, of obstacles surmounted, of a people who, despite what may divide us, are always striving to perfect their single Union. In the wake of this election, let us remember that and join together to move forward.\u201d\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-welcome-more-than-15-million-in-funding-to-support-9-maine-agricultural-producers_", "Collins, King Welcome More Than $1.5 Million in Funding to Support 9 Maine Agricultural Producers", "2016-11-07", "2016", "2016-11", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Collins, King Welcome More Than $1.5 Million in Funding to Support 9 Maine Agricultural Producers  \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tMonday, November 7, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King today welcomed an announcement from the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) that it has awarded a total of $1,549,262 to nine Maine agricultural producers. The funding, awarded through the USDA's Rural Development Value Added Producer Grant Program, will support activities related to the processing and marketing of agricultural, value-added products.\u00a0\r\n\"This federal investment will assist local, independent farms across the state that are seeking to expand their product lines and customer base,\u201d said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. \u201cMaine-made food is renowned for its quality and taste, and we are pleased that this funding will allow more consumers to access the state\u2019s homegrown products.\u201d\r\nThe grant recipients in Maine are as follows:\r\n \r\nDickey Hill Farm in Monroe will receive $24,145 to assist with the branding, processing, marketing and distribution of organic winter greens.\r\nPenobscot McCrum in Belfast will receive $248,000 to assist with personnel, ingredients, and marketing expenses associated with transforming raw potatoes into processed potato wedges and expand their existing customer base.\r\nJessica Laing Dowling in Whitefield will receive $177,717 to help produce and market artisan cheeses from goat and sheep milk.\r\nThirty Acre Farms in Whitefield will receive $250,000 to help expand the marketing and processing of sauerkraut and other fermented products made from organic vegetables.\r\nAvena Botanicals in Rockport will receive $250,000 to assist with personnel, processing, and marketing costs to increase sales of organic, herbal products and expand their existing customer base.\r\nAmerican Unagi in Thomaston will receive $49,400 to help assess the feasibility and marketability of processed products made from farm-raised American eels.\r\nDogpatch Farm in Washington will receive $50,000 to help brand and direct market pork from critically rare Mulefoot Hogs.\r\nWhitney Brook in Bridgewater will receive $250,000 used to help expand the farm\u2019s market for organic seed potatoes and table stock potatoes.\r\nRicker Hill Orchards in Turner will receive $250,000 to help with brand unification, expanding product reach nationally, and to increase production of raw apple cider vinegar, hard cider, fruit wines, and carbonated sweet ciders.\r\n \r\nThis year, the USDA Rural Development Value Added Producer Program has contributed a total of $44 million nationwide to help small-scale agricultural producers.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-welcome-44-million-investment-in-water-infrastructure-for-boothbay-harbor-and-vassalboro-", "Collins, King Welcome $4.4 Million Investment in Water Infrastructure for Boothbay Harbor and Vassalboro", "2016-11-04", "2016", "2016-11", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Collins, King Welcome $4.4 Million Investment in Water Infrastructure for Boothbay Harbor and Vassalboro \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tFriday, November 4, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King welcomed an announcement from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) that it is investing $4.4 million to assist the Boothbay Harbor Sewer District and Vassalboro Sanitary District. Boothbay Harbor will receive a $450,000 Water and Waste Disposal Direct Loan and a $150,000 grant, and Vassalboro will receive a $2,113,000 Water and Waste Disposal Direct Loan and a $1,700,000 grant.\r\n\u201cWater infrastructure helps to set a foundation for the health and safety of communities across Maine,\u201d said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. \u201cInvestments like these from USDA Rural Development play an important role in that effort, marshaling critical resources for Maine people.\u201d\r\nThe Boothbay Harbor Sewer District will use this support for upgrades to its sewer distribution system. The Vassalboro Sanitary District will make an interconnection with the Town of Winslow to facilitate treatment at the Kennebec Sanitary Treatment District's Regional wastewater treatment facility.\r\nThese Maine investments come through USDA Rural Development\u2019s Water and Environmental Programs, and are part of a nationwide announcement of $264 million in loans and $67 million in grants. \u00a0These programs provide assistance and financing to communities with 10,000 or fewer residents to develop drinking water and waste disposal systems.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/-king-celebrates-safety-award-presented-to-casco-bay-energy-company-in-veazie_", "King Celebrates Safety Award Presented to Casco Bay Energy Company in Veazie", "2016-11-02", "2016", "2016-11", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "King Celebrates Safety Award Presented to Casco Bay Energy Company in Veazie  \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tTours energy production facility following award ceremony to discuss natural gas infrastructure and electric grid security\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, November 2, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tBANGOR, ME \u2013 U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) today joined with officials from Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to present Casco Bay Energy Company with OSHA\u2019s prestigious Voluntary Protection Program Star Certification. Star Certification is awarded to exemplary worksites with comprehensive, successful safety, and health management systems.\r\n\u201cFacilities like Casco Bay Energy are a critical component of America\u2019s energy infrastructure, helping to provide a reliable source of electricity for people across Maine and New England,\u201d Senator King said. \u201cThat's why I am so proud to join with officials from OSHA to congratulate\u00a0the folks here today on this well-deserved Star Certification safety award, which is a testament to the hard work and dedication that is put in here every day to provide a safe work place and provide the energy that Mainers need to live their lives.\u201d\r\nFollowing the award ceremony, Senator King toured Casco Bay Energy\u2019s facility and met with company executives to discuss the need for greater natural gas pipeline infrastructure and energy grid stability and security.\r\nSenator King has called on the Obama Administration to help coordinate federal and state efforts to expand natural gas pipeline infrastructure throughout New England, and he has also introduced legislation that would protect the energy grid from cyber-attacks.\r\n\u201cAt a time of increased cyber-threats, it is critical that we do\u00a0everything we can to safeguard our critical energy infrastructure,\u201d Senator King said. \u201cToday\u2019s tour was an important part of an ongoing conversation about the challenges facilities like Casco Bay Energy face and how we can help them in keeping our grid secure and affordable.\u201d\r\nCasco Bay Energy, a subsidiary of Dynegy, is a natural gas power production facility located in Veazie.\r\nSenator King also traveled to Bangor this afternoon to visit the New England Telehealth Consortium (NETC) network operation and command center.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-427000-to-help-maine-small-businesses-increase-energy-efficiency", "Collins, King Announce $427,000 to Help Maine Small Businesses Increase Energy Efficiency", "2016-11-01", "2016", "2016-11", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Collins, King Announce $427,000 to Help Maine Small Businesses Increase Energy Efficiency\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTuesday, November 1, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014\u00a0U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King today announced that the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) will invest a total of $427,000 to help six Maine small businesses purchase and install renewable energy systems or upgrade to more energy efficient equipment. The grants were awarded through the USDA\u2019s Rural Energy for America Program (REAP).\r\n\u201cThese investments will help Maine small businesses adopt cost-effective and efficient renewable energy systems that provide significant annual savings as well as environmental benefits,\"\u00a0said Collins and King in a joint statement.\u00a0\u201cBy cutting energy waste, small businesses can improve their bottom lines, increase their competiveness, and better support their local communities.\u201d\r\nThe grant recipients in Maine are as follows:\r\n \r\nLittle River Flower Farm in Buxton will receive $42,226\u00a0to help purchase and install a 24 kW thin-film solar panel system integrated into the structure of a new greenhouse and for two new wood pellet boilers.\r\nDouble G Farms, Inc. in Blaine will receive $151,271\u00a0to help purchase and install a 219.2 kW solar PV ground-mounted system to benefit the farm.\r\nKAPH Inc. in Eliot will receive $25,637\u00a0to help purchase and install a 39.75 kW roof-mounted solar array.\r\nMaine Textiles International, LLC in Biddeford will receive $140,295\u00a0to help purchase and replace textile dyeing equipment at the Saco River Dyehouse, reducing annual energy consumption by approximately 85 percent.\r\nGoranson Farm in Dresden will receive $17,696\u00a0to help purchase and install a 24.96 kW ground-mounted solar array.\r\nS.P. Real Estate, LLC in Fort Kent\u00a0will receive $49,875 to help purchase and install a 58.5 kW solar PV tracker system.\r\n \r\nSince 2009, USDA\u2019s REAP has invested nearly $13 billion to finance approximately 11,600 renewable energy and energy efficiency projects nationwide that in turn have reduced energy costs for 15,000 rural small businesses and farms. This year alone, REAP has invested a total of $237 million to support 423 businesses nationally.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-applaud-approval-of-norway-spruce-for-construction-grade-dimensional-lumber_", "Collins, King Applaud Approval of Norway Spruce for Construction-Grade Dimensional Lumber", "2016-11-01", "2016", "2016-11", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Collins, King Applaud Approval of Norway Spruce for Construction-Grade Dimensional Lumber  \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTuesday, November 1, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King applauded a decision to approve Norway spruce as construction-grade dimensional lumber. Senators Collins and King commended a team of researchers from the University of Maine that conducted extensive testing on the wood species, which informed the decision by the American Lumber Standards Committee to approve Norway spruce for use in construction.\u00a0 The decision will benefit Maine landowners, loggers, lumber mills, retailers, and builders.\r\n\u201cApproval of Norway spruce as construction-grade is exciting news for Maine\u2019s forest products industry and is a perfect example of how research and business communities can work together to create economic opportunities,\u201d said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. \u201cWe applaud the team of researchers and students at the UMaine Composites Center whose hard work helped lead to this decision that will open doors for rural Maine.\u201d\r\nOn October 30th, The American Lumber Standards Committee approved the inclusion of Norway spruce in the Spruce-Pine-Fir South grouping of wood species for home construction and industrial applications. That decision was based in part on the testing done at the UMaine Composites Center on lumber milled from Norway spruce.\r\nThe team of UMaine staff and students was led by wood composites manager Russell Edgar and wood composites technician Jon Hill. The team tested 1,320 pieces of lumber from Norway spruce grown in Maine, Vermont, New York and Wisconsin.\r\nFor more information on the Norway spruce species and its approval for construction use, click HERE.\r\nMore information on the testing conducted at UMaine is available HERE.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/during-tour-of-somerset-county-businesses-king-highlights-positive-momentum-in-maine-manufacturing-", "During Tour of Somerset County Businesses, King Highlights Positive Momentum in Maine Manufacturing", "2016-11-01", "2016", "2016-11", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "During Tour of Somerset County Businesses, King Highlights Positive Momentum in Maine Manufacturing \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTuesday, November 1, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tATHENS, ME \u2013 U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) today toured several local businesses in Somerset County, where he highlighted success stories in Maine manufacturing and emphasized the invaluable impact that businesses have in rural Maine towns as drivers of innovation, good jobs, and economic development.\r\n\r\n\u201cThe Somerset County businesses I toured today are proof positive that manufacturing in Maine is growing more diverse and providing new opportunities, even as we work through the challenges facing our paper industry together,\u201d Senator King said. \u201cWe are blessed with great resources in our state, like our forests and our coastal waters. But no resource is more important or more vital than our hardworking people. The key now is combining those resources with innovative thinking to put people to work, to invest in our communities \u2013 both through private money and with grant funding, which can often make a big difference \u2013 and to create new and exciting economic opportunities across Maine. Every business I saw today did just that.\u201d\r\nToday\u2019s business tour has focused on Made-In-Maine and Made-In-USA products, promoting the success of Maine manufacturers, and underscoring how the revitalization of manufacturing in the state contributes to economic growth and development efforts across rural Maine.\r\nSenator King\u2019s day began with a visit to Tasman Leather Group in Hartland. Tasman Leather is a subsidiary of Tasman Industries Inc. and specializes in manufacturing premium-quality leather products. The tannery in Hartland is responsible for 100 percent of their \u201cMade in USA\u201d leathers and provides leather to companies in Maine such as L.L. Bean and New Balance.\r\nHis next stop was Maine Stitching Specialties in Skowhegan, a manufacturer of premium custom draperies, window treatments, American and Maine State flags, and other textiles, including Dog Not Gone pet visibility vets for L.L. Bean. Last year, the company received a federal grant that supported their continued growth.\r\nFollowing his visit to Maine Stitching Specialties, Senator King traveled to Anson for a tour of Cousineau Wood Products. This wood products manufacturer focuses largely on the production of wooden gun stocks. The company was able to hire additional people and expand its product line with the assistance of a federal grant in 2015.\r\nSenator King\u2019s manufacturing tour today concludes with a visit to Maine Woods Pellet Company in Athens, a state-of-the-art business that focuses on the efficient production of wood pellets for fuel.\r\nPhoto 1: Senator King shakes hands with David Emery at Tasman Leather Group in Hartland (Courtesy of Tasman Leather Group).\r\nPhoto 2: Senator King with Alice Quirion at Maine Stitching Specialties in Skowhegan (Courtesy of Chelsea York, Maine Stitching Specialties).\u00a0\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-outlines-maines-five-most-serious-challenges-during-dirigo-speaks-series-hosted-by-aarp-and-bdn", "King Outlines Maine’s Five Most Serious Challenges During “Dirigo Speaks” Series Hosted by AARP and BDN", "2016-10-27", "2016", "2016-10", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "King Outlines Maine\u2019s Five Most Serious Challenges During \u201cDirigo Speaks\u201d Series Hosted by AARP and BDN\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tThursday, October 27, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tPORTLAND, ME \u2013 During a \u201cDirigo Speaks\u201d event hosted by AARP and the Bangor Daily News this evening, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) outlined his vision of the five most serious long-term challenges facing the State of Maine.\r\nSenator King\u2019s list included: 1) The need for continued infrastructure improvements; 2) The impact of climate change on Maine\u2019s inland and coast; 3) The necessity for the continued diversification of energy resources; 4) Ongoing support to help revitalize Maine\u2019s forest economy; and 5) The need to expand Maine\u2019s workforce in the face of changing demographics. In his remarks, Senator King also acknowledged that his list is not conclusive, and that there are many other issues facing the state, such as the opioid and heroin epidemic, but he concluded by saying that no problem the state faces is unsolvable if Maine leaders and its people work together in a thoughtful way.\r\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cNone of these problems are insurmountable. None of them are problems that haven\u2019t been dealt with by other people, in other places, at other times \u2013 even here in the State of Maine,\u201d Senator King said. \u201cIn fact, I believe we can find the seeds of salvation in them \u2013 the foundation of which is our most extraordinary and abiding strength: that Maine is simply and truly the best place in the world to live. And so in an age where people can now work where they live instead of having to live where they work, Maine wins \u2013 hands-down. What that means for us, then, is that we have to be deliberate and thoughtful in how we create the human, economic, cultural, and social infrastructure to enable that to happen.\u201d\r\nFollowing his remarks, Senator King participated in a question and answer session with members of the audience, which was moderated by Tony Ronzio of the Bangor Daily News. Dirigo Speaks is a new platform for Maine leaders and regional newsmakers to share opinions, ideas, and perspectives on what\u2019s happening \u2013 and not happening \u2013 in Maine. The event was hosted by AARP in partnership with the Bangor Daily News at The Westin Portland Harborview Hotel in Portland.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-applaud-director-of-wells-reserve-at-laudholm-for-winning-prestigious-noaa-conservation-award", "Collins, King Applaud Director of Wells Reserve at Laudholm for Winning Prestigious NOAA Conservation Award", "2016-10-26", "2016", "2016-10", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Collins, King Applaud Director of Wells Reserve at Laudholm for Winning Prestigious NOAA Conservation Award\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, October 26, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013\u00a0Today, U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King applauded Paul Dest, the Director of the Wells National Estuarine Research Reserve, for being one of only two people across the country to be awarded the 2016\u00a0Dr. Nancy Foster Habitat Conservation Award\u00a0by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). The Senators wrote a letter supporting Mr. Dest\u2019s nomination for the award. \u200e\u00a0\r\n\u201cWe are proud and excited that Paul Dest has been chosen by NOAA for this significant conservation award,\u201d\u00a0said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement.\u00a0\u201cHe and the entire team at the Wells Reserve are doing fantastic work to help study and conserve coastal ecosystems across Maine, and we are thrilled that Paul is being recognized for his dedication and leadership.\u201d\r\nThe Dr. Nancy Foster Habitat Conservation Award is given every two years to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional achievement in habitat conservation in the coastal and marine environment. This year\u2019s other award winner is Lynda Mapes, an environmental reporter with the\u00a0Seattle Times. The pair will be honored in December at the National Summit on Coastal and Estuarine Restoration in New Orleans.\u00a0\r\nThe Wells Reserve at Laudholm is located in Wells, Maine. As a\u00a0National Estuarine Research Reserve, the Wells Reserve works to build knowledge about coasts and estuaries, promote environmental learning, and involve communities in conservation \u2013 all with the goal of protecting and restoring coastal ecosystems throughout the Gulf of Maine.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/during-usm-panel-king-says-leadership-lessons-of-polar-explorer-ernest-shackleton-should-guide-us-in-arctic", "During USM Panel, King Says Leadership Lessons of Polar Explorer Ernest Shackleton Should Guide U.S. in Arctic", "2016-10-26", "2016", "2016-10", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "During USM Panel, King Says Leadership Lessons of Polar Explorer Ernest Shackleton Should Guide U.S. in Arctic\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, October 26, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tPORTLAND, ME \u2013 This evening, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) delivered remarks about the leadership of pioneering polar explorer Ernest Shackleton during a University of Southern Maine (USM) Arctic forum titled, \u201cLeadership, Exploration, and Survival: A Blueprint for Thriving in Our Changing World.\u201d Senator King spoke about how Shackleton, whose extraordinary leadership helped successfully marshal his crew through a hazardous \u2013 and ultimately historic \u2013 journey into the Antarctic, should serve as a guiding force as the United States seeks to play a greater role in the Arctic.\r\nSenator King specifically focused on ten leadership characteristics embodied by Shackleton during his journey that the U.S should emulate in the Arctic: 1) Establish a vision; 2) Compose a good team; 3) Build trust; 4) Equip yourself with knowledge that will guide your actions; 5) Persevere through hardship; 6) Exercise empathy; 7) Remain flexible and creative; 8) Communicate effectively; 9) Maintain optimism; and 10) Demonstrate character.\r\n\u201cThe story of Ernest Shackleton and his men is one of the greatest stories of leadership ever recorded in human history,\u201d Senator King said. \u201cAnd the lessons of his journey into Antarctica are applicable to the United States in the Arctic today. As our country leads the Arctic Council, it is my hope that these principles will guide us as we work to foster cooperation and cultivate understanding among the many nations with interests in the region.\u201d\r\nAs member of both the Senate Armed Services and Energy and Natural Resources Committees, Senator King has repeatedly highlighted dynamic security, environmental, and commercial factors in the Arctic that require the U.S. to enhance its engagement in the region. Together with Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), the Chair of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, he founded the Senate Arctic Caucus in March of last year to spotlight the Arctic and open up a wider conversation about the nation\u2019s future in the region.\r\nIn addition to Senator King today, Paul Mayewski, an internationally acclaimed scientist, polar and high altitude explorer and Director of the University of Maine\u2019s Climate Change Institute, spoke on the theme of exploration. Patrick Arnold, an entrepreneur who develops economically prosperous and environmentally sustainable enterprises through the New England Ocean Cluster in partnership with the Iceland Ocean Cluster, also spoke on the theme of survival. \u00d3lafur Ragnar Gr\u00edmsson, the former President of Iceland, delivered the keynote address.\r\nPrior to the start of the event, a moment of silence was held in honor of Gordon Hamilton, a pioneering climate scientist at the University of Maine who tragically lost his in a snowmobile accident in Antarctica last week as he sought to study and understand changes in global sea ice and how those changes will affect the world.\r\nSenator King earlier today also participated in the grand opening of The Recovery Oriented Campus Center (ROCC) at USM. The ROCC focuses on establishing peer support to build a supportive community for students in recovery from substance use and other mental health conditions. Senator King was joined there by USM President Glenn Cummings.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/icymi-internet-nonprofit-mozilla-backs-kings-call-for-president-to-strengthen-cybersecurity-networks", "ICYMI: Internet Nonprofit Mozilla Backs King’s Call for President to Strengthen Cybersecurity Networks", "2016-10-26", "2016", "2016-10", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "ICYMI: Internet Nonprofit Mozilla Backs King\u2019s Call for President to Strengthen Cybersecurity Networks\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, October 26, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tBRUNSWICK, ME \u2013 In case you missed it, Mozilla, a global, nonprofit organization dedicated to defending a free and open web, applauded U.S. Senators Angus King (I-Maine) and Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) for their letter earlier this week calling on President Barack Obama to work with Congress to strengthen the federal government\u2019s ability to detect and repair cyber-vulnerabilities within U.S. networks.\r\nIn a blog post published yesterday, Heather West, a senior public policy representative at Mozilla, echoed Senators King\u2019s and Heinrich\u2019s call to the President and wrote in support of their request to implement a government-wide \u201cBug Bounty\u201d program, which rewards so-called \u201cwhite hat\u201d hackers who detect and report security vulnerabilities.\r\nThe blog post also outlined Mozilla\u2019s proposed reforms to the Vulnerabilities Equities Process (VEP), which serves as the primary process for deciding whether a government entity must disclose to private companies information about security vulnerabilities in their products, or whether the government may withhold the information for law enforcement or intelligence purposes. In their letter, Senators King and Heinrich requested that the Administration establish a comprehensive policy that includes standard criteria for reporting vulnerabilities to the VEP, guidelines for making VEP determinations, clear time limits for each stage of the process, adequate participation of all relevant government agencies, and regular reporting to Congress.\r\n\u201cLast week\u2019s cyber attack on Dyn that blocked access to popular websites like Amazon, Spotify, and Twitter is the latest example of the increasing threats to Internet security, making it more important that we acknowledge cybersecurity is a shared responsibility. Governments, companies, and users all need to work together to protect Internet security,\u201d the blog post stated. \u201cThis is why Mozilla applauds Sens. Angus King Jr. (I-ME) and Martin Heinrich (D-NM) for calling on President Obama to establish enduring government-wide policies for the discovery, review, and sharing of security vulnerabilities.\u201d\r\nMozilla\u2019s complete blog post can be read HERE and is below:\r\n+++\r\nMozilla Asks President Obama to Help Strengthen Cybersecurity\u00a0\r\nLast week\u2019s cyber attack on Dyn that blocked access to popular websites like Amazon, Spotify, and Twitter is the latest example of the increasing threats to Internet security, making it more important that we acknowledge cybersecurity is a shared responsibility. Governments, companies, and users all need to work together to protect Internet security.\r\nThis is why Mozilla applauds Sens. Angus King Jr. (I-ME) and Martin Heinrich (D-NM) for calling on President Obama to establish enduring government-wide policies for the discovery, review, and sharing of security vulnerabilities. They suggest creating bug bounty programs and formalizing the Vulnerabilities Equities Process (VEP) - the government\u2019s process for reviewing and coordinating the disclosure of vulnerabilities that it learns about or creates.\r\n\u201cThe recent intrusions into United States networks and the controversy surrounding the Federal Bureau of Investigation\u2019s efforts to access the iPhone used in the San Bernardino attacks have underscored for us the need to establish more robust and accountable policies regarding security vulnerabilities,\u201d Senators King and Heinrich wrote in their letter.\r\nMozilla prioritizes the privacy and security of users and we work to find and fix vulnerabilities in Firefox as quickly as possible. We created one of the first bug bounty programs more than 10 years ago to encourage security researchers to report security vulnerabilities.\r\nMozilla has also called for five specific, important reforms to the VEP:\r\n \r\nAll security vulnerabilities should go through the VEP and there should be public timelines for reviewing decisions to delay disclosure.\r\nAll relevant federal agencies involved in the VEP must work together to evaluate a standard set of criteria to ensure all relevant risks and interests are considered.\r\nIndependent oversight and transparency into the processes and procedures of the VEP must be created.\r\nThe VEP Executive Secretariat should live within the Department of Homeland Security because they have built up significant expertise, infrastructure, and trust through existing coordinated vulnerability disclosure programs (for example, US CERT).\r\nThe VEP should be codified in law to ensure compliance and permanence.\r\n \r\nThese changes to the discovery, review, and sharing of security vulnerabilities would be a great start to strengthening the shared responsibility of cybersecurity and reducing the countless cyber attacks we see today.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-more-than-36-million-in-grants-for-community-development", "Collins, King Announce More Than $3.6 Million in Grants for Community Development", "2016-10-24", "2016", "2016-10", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Collins, King Announce More Than $3.6 Million in Grants for Community Development\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tMonday, October 24, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King today announced that five Maine organizations have been awarded a total of $3,649,544 through the Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI) Program and the Native American CDFI Assistance (NACA) Program.\u00a0\r\nCDFIs are private financial institutions that provide affordable loans to low-income individuals and communities to help finance community businesses\u2014including small businesses, microenterprises, nonprofit organizations, commercial real estate, and affordable housing. The grants will enable local financial and development institutions, as well as institutions devoted to supporting Maine\u2019s Native American population, increase their lending and investment activity in economically distressed communities. \u201cCDFIs play an important role in spurring economic development in communities across Maine,\u201d said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. \u201cWith this funding, these five CDFIs will be able to build on their support for local entrepreneurs, creating greater economic opportunities for residents of low-income areas.\u201dThe five Maine CDFIs receiving funding through these grants are below:CDFI\r\n \r\nCoastal Enterprises, Inc. in Brunswick will receive $1,750,000.\r\nGenesis Fund, Inc.\u00a0in Brunswick will receive $475,000.\r\nMaineStream Finance in Bangor will receive $500,000.\r\nNorthern Maine Development Commission in Caribou will receive $124,544.\r\n \r\n   Native American CDFI\r\n \r\nFour Directions Development Corporation in Orono will receive $800,000.\r\n \r\n   The CDFI Fund is part of the U.S. Department of the Treasury. Click HERE to learn more about the Fund.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-heinrich-urge-president-to-strengthen-cybersecurity-networks", "King, Heinrich Urge President to Strengthen Cybersecurity Networks", "2016-10-24", "2016", "2016-10", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "King, Heinrich Urge President to Strengthen Cybersecurity Networks\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tIn a letter that comes days after complex cyber-attack, the Senators call on the President to adopt government-wide policies that will help detect vulnerabilities and communicate them to private sector\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tMonday, October 24, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tBRUNSWICK, ME \u2013 In the wake of a complex cyber-attack that disrupted service to Twitter, Spotify, The New York Times and other major websites, U.S. Senators Angus King (I-Maine) and Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) today called on President Barack Obama to work with Congress to strengthen the federal government\u2019s ability to detect and repair cyber-vulnerabilities within U.S. networks. In a letter sent today, the two members of the Senate Intelligence Committee urged the President to help establish uniform policies across the government that would secure U.S. networks and establish a comprehensive process that would relay any detected vulnerabilities to private sector companies for repair.\r\n\u201cGiven the growing threat to our nation\u2019s networks and digital services, we write to urge you to work with us to establish enduring government policies for the discovery, review, and sharing of security vulnerabilities. The recent intrusions into United States networks and the controversy surrounding the Federal Bureau of Investigation\u2019s efforts to access the iPhone used in the San Bernardino attacks have underscored for us the need to establish more robust and accountable policies regarding security vulnerabilities,\u201d Senators King and Heinrich wrote in their letter.\r\nSenators King and Heinrich pointed specifically to the success of the Department of Defense\u2019s (DOD) \u201cBug Bounty\u201d program, which rewards so-called \u201cwhite hat\u201d hackers who detect and report security vulnerabilities within the DOD\u2019s networks. Of the 1,410 vetted U.S.-based hackers who registered for the Pentagon\u2019s program, 250 successfully found vulnerabilities and 138 submissions were found to be \u201clegitimate, unique and eligible for a bounty.\u201d\r\n\u201cWe believe such programs represent a cost-effective way to supplement and support the people who defend our government\u2019s IT systems \u2013 and these efforts should not be limited to the Pentagon\u2019s networks,\u201d the Senators wrote.\u00a0 \u201cAs such, we request that your administration work with us to establish standards and appropriate coordination platforms to build on the success of the Department\u2019s pilot and promote government-wide bug bounty programs.\u201d\r\nThe Senators also encouraged the President to continue to strengthen the Vulnerabilities Equities Process, otherwise known as VEP, which serves as the primary process for deciding whether a government entity must disclose to private companies\u2019 information about security vulnerabilities in their products, or whether the government may withhold the information for law enforcement or intelligence purposes. The Senators requested that the Administration establish a comprehensive policy that includes standard criteria for reporting vulnerabilities to the VEP, guidelines for making VEP determinations, clear time limits for each stage of the process, adequate participation of all relevant government agencies, and regular reporting to Congress.\r\n\u201cWe believe the VEP framework is vital to ensuring that security vulnerabilities are either disclosed immediately so the relevant companies can strengthen consumer security, or put through a robust, accountable, and expeditious review process in the exceptional circumstances when the government may wish to delay disclosure for a limited amount of time,\u201d they wrote.\r\nThe complete text of the letter can be read below:\r\n\r\n+++\r\n\r\nOctober 24, 2016\r\n\u00a0\r\nThe President\r\nThe White House\r\n1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW\r\nWashington, DC\u00a0 20500\r\n\u00a0\r\nDear Mr. President:\r\n\u00a0\r\nGiven the growing threat to our nation\u2019s networks and digital services, we write to urge you to work with us to establish enduring government policies for the discovery, review, and sharing of security vulnerabilities.\u00a0 \r\nThe recent intrusions into United States networks and the controversy surrounding the Federal Bureau of Investigation\u2019s efforts to access the iPhone used in the San Bernardino attacks have underscored for us the need to establish more robust and accountable policies regarding security vulnerabilities.\u00a0 Specifically, we are exploring whether legislation is needed to establish government-wide policies with respect to two lines of effort: \u201cbug bounty\u201d programs that would help secure government networks like those used by the Office of Personnel Management, and formalizing the vulnerabilities equities process, which notifies software and hardware manufacturers of vulnerabilities discovered in their products. \r\nBug Bounty Programs: The private sector has been using bug bounty programs for decades to reward people who report security vulnerabilities in companies\u2019 applications, websites, and networks.\u00a0 Earlier this year, the Department of Defense launched \u201cHack the Pentagon,\u201d the first cyber bug bounty program in the history of the federal government.\u00a0 Of the 1,410 vetted U.S.-based hackers who registered for the Pentagon\u2019s program, 250 successfully found vulnerabilities and 138 submissions were found to be \u201clegitimate, unique and eligible for a bounty.\u201d\u00a0 \r\nWe believe such programs represent a cost-effective way to supplement and support the people who defend our government\u2019s IT systems \u2013 and these efforts should not be limited to the Pentagon\u2019s networks.\u00a0 As such, we request that your administration work with us to establish standards and appropriate coordination platforms to build on the success of the Department\u2019s pilot and promote government-wide bug bounty programs.\u00a0\u00a0 \r\nVulnerabilities Equities Process (VEP): Over the last several years, your administration, led by White House Cybersecurity Coordinator Michael Daniel, has made progress in establishing the VEP as the primary process for deciding whether a government entity must disclose to private companies\u2019 information about security vulnerabilities in their products, or whether the government may withhold the information for law enforcement or intelligence purposes.\u00a0 We believe the VEP framework is vital to ensuring that security vulnerabilities are either disclosed immediately so the relevant companies can strengthen consumer security, or put through a robust, accountable, and expeditious review process in the exceptional circumstances when the government may wish to delay disclosure for a limited amount of time.\u00a0 \r\nDuring a Senate Armed Services Committee hearing on September 13th, Admiral Rogers said the NSA has utilized a \u201cvulnerability evaluation process\u201d since 2014 and that its \u201coverall disclosure rate [of vulnerabilities to companies] has been 93 percent or so.\u201d\u00a0 However, as of today, there is no legal obligation on government agencies to report the security vulnerabilities they discover or acquire to the White House-led VEP, nor is the VEP codified in law.\u00a0 In fact, it is unclear to us if all security vulnerabilities acquired by our government currently go through the VEP.\u00a0 \r\nTherefore, we request that your administration work with us to establish comprehensive and enduring policies governing the VEP process, including standard criteria for reporting vulnerabilities to the VEP, guidelines for making VEP determinations, clear time limits for each stage of the process, adequate participation of all relevant government agencies, and regular reporting to Congress.\r\nFinally, last year Congress passed, and you signed, the Cybersecurity Information Sharing Act of 2015 (CISA).\u00a0 We were early proponents of this legislation, which directs the federal government to increase its sharing of cyber information with the private sector to assist companies in protecting their systems, and provides clear authority and liability protection for private sector entities to share information with the government.\u00a0 We encourage your administration to use all of the authorities available under CISA to make progress on the lines of effort we have outlined above.\u00a0 \r\nThank you for your attention to these important issues.\u00a0 We look forward to working closely with your administration on these vital national security challenges in the weeks ahead. \r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-king-congratulate-kennebunk-educator-on-receiving-prestigious-award-for-leadership_-", "Senators Collins, King Congratulate Kennebunk Educator on Receiving Prestigious Award for Leadership", "2016-10-20", "2016", "2016-10", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Senators Collins, King Congratulate Kennebunk Educator on Receiving Prestigious Award for Leadership   \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tThursday, October 20, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\r\nWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King congratulated Sea Road School Principal Stephen D. Marquis, Ph.D., of Kennebunk on being named a 2016 recipient of the Terrel H. Bell Award for Outstanding School Leadership. Dr. Marquis is one of only eight principals across the country who will receive the award at a ceremony on November 7, 2016.\r\n\u201cThe Bell Award is one of the most prestigious recognitions principals can receive, and we are so proud of Dr. Marquis for earning this distinction,\u201d said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. \u201cThis award reflects Dr. Marquis\u2019 commitment to Sea Road School as well as his desire to continually inspire and challenge students and support families.\u201dNamed for the second U. S. Secretary of Education, the Terrel H. Bell Award honors school leaders who are committed to education as a powerful and liberating force in people\u2019s lives. The award is part of the National Blue Ribbon Schools Program. Principals are nominated by their school communities during the final stages of the National Blue Ribbon Schools application process. Last month, Senators Collins and King congratulated Sea Road School on being named a National Blue Ribbon School, one of three Maine schools to receive this distinction.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-pingree-call-on-army-corps-of-engineers-to-fund-york-harbor-saco-river-dredging-projects", "Collins, King, Pingree Call on Army Corps of Engineers to Fund York Harbor, Saco River Dredging Projects", "2016-10-18", "2016", "2016-10", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Collins, King, Pingree Call on Army Corps of Engineers to Fund York Harbor, Saco River Dredging Projects\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tMaintenance dredging would address safety and navigational access concerns \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTuesday, October 18, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King and U.S. Representative Chellie Pingree sent a letter urging the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to move forward and fund critical dredging projects for York Harbor and the Saco River.\r\n\u201cSmall ports and harbors like York and Saco River are the economic lifeblood for many coastal communities in Maine.\u00a0 In allocating funds that Congress makes available to the Corps each year for the operation and maintenance of our nation\u2019s water infrastructure, the law requires the Corps to consider factors other than tonnage transiting through a harbor, to include potential for regional or local economic development.\u00a0 In this respect, commercial activity on the Saco River\u2014home to more than 40 commercial fishing vessels\u2014contributes more than $53 million in economic impact to the community each year, and York Harbor produces a direct economic benefit of $12 million annually,\u201d\u00a0said Senators Collins and King and Representative Pingree in the letter.\u00a0\u201cTo address these critical needs and maintain our essential water infrastructure, we urge you to prioritize funding in this fiscal year the maintenance dredging of both the York Harbor and Saco River FNPs, consistent with all applicable laws and regulations.\u201d\u00a0\r\nThe joint letter was sent to Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works Jo-Ellen Darcy. Assistant Secretary Darcy supervises the U.S Army Corps of Engineers\u2019 Civil Works program, which is responsible for dredging to maintain channel depths in U.S. harbors and inland waterways.\r\nThe letter is available\u00a0HERE\u00a0and the full text is below:\r\n+++\u00a0\r\nThe Honorable Jo-Ellen Darcy\r\nAssistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works\r\nU.S. Department of Defense\r\n108 Army Pentagon, Room 3E446\r\nWashington, DC 20310-0108\r\nDear Assistant Secretary Darcy:\r\nWe are writing in support of the urgent need for maintenance dredging of the York Harbor Federal Navigation Project (FNP) in York, Maine, and the Saco River FNP in Saco and Biddeford, Maine, to address significant safety and navigational access concerns in the region. \u00a0\r\nYork Harbor was last dredged in 1996.\u00a0 The 42,000 cubic yards of sand, silt, and clay that have accumulated since then need to be removed.\u00a0 Nearly two years ago, the New England District of the Army Corps of Engineers stated that significant shoaling in the harbor is \u201chindering navigational access and compromising vessel safety,\u201d and that inaction \u201cwould allow existing conditions to remain and worsen as shoaling continues.\u201d\u00a0 The Town of York has secured all the necessary permits to remove this material, and the project has been \u201cshovel-ready\u201d for more than a year.\u00a0 According to the New England District, York would most likely need to reapply for these permits and bear the significant financial costs of that process all over again if the project is not funded this fiscal year.\u00a0 The project is estimated to cost between $2 and $3 million, but the Corps has not yet funded it despite the significant funding provided by Congress in recent years to maintain small harbors like York and Saco River.\u00a0\r\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 Recently, the towns of Saco and Biddeford similarly completed the permit process necessary for the Saco River dredging project, which is estimated to cost approximately $3.2 million. \u00a0This FNP was last dredged in 1993.\u00a0 More than 150,000 cubic yards of sand have accumulated since then and need to be removed.\u00a0 Significantly, nearby Camp Ellis Beach is in dire need of clean sand to alleviate on-going erosion.\u00a0 To date, 37 homes have reportedly been lost due to this erosion.\u00a0 The sooner the Corps funds the Saco River project, the sooner that Camp Ellis Beach can be replenished with material dredged from the Saco River.\u00a0\r\nSmall ports and harbors like York and Saco River are the economic lifeblood for many coastal communities in Maine.\u00a0 In allocating funds that Congress makes available to the Corps each year for the operation and maintenance of our nation\u2019s water infrastructure, the law requires the Corps to consider factors other than tonnage transiting through a harbor, to include potential for regional or local economic development.\u00a0 In this respect, commercial activity on the Saco River\u2014home to more than 40 commercial fishing vessels\u2014contributes more than $53 million in economic impact to the community each year, and York Harbor produces a direct economic benefit of $12 million annually.\u00a0\r\nTo address these critical needs and maintain our essential water infrastructure, we urge you to prioritize funding in this fiscal year the maintenance dredging of both the York Harbor and Saco River FNPs, consistent with all applicable laws and regulations.\u00a0 Thank you for your time and consideration.\u00a0 Please contact us directly or have your staff contact our staff members Jay Lim (Collins) at (202) 224-2523, Morgan Cashwell (King) at (202) 224-5344, and Kimber Colton (Pingree) at (202) 225-6116, should you have any questions.\r\nSincerely,\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-king-announce-maine-locations-for-2016-drug-takeback", "Senators Collins, King Announce Maine Locations for 2016 Drug Take-Back Day", "2016-10-18", "2016", "2016-10", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Senators Collins, King Announce Maine Locations for 2016 Drug Take-Back Day\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tDrug Take-Back Day Will Take Place from 10 a.m.\u20142 p.m. Saturday, October 22, 2016\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTuesday, October 18, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 Ahead of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency\u2019s National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day this Saturday, U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced the locations of the Maine collection sites. Click HERE for locations.\r\nThe National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day aims to provide a safe, convenient, and responsible means of disposing of prescription drugs, while also educating the general public about the potential for abuse of medications. At the previous Take-Back event on April 30, 2016, federal, state, and local government entities took back a record 893,498 pounds of unused, expired, or unwanted drugs at nearly 5,400 collection locations across the country, including almost 16 tons of unwanted medications in Maine alone.\r\n\u201cAddiction to prescription opioids and heroin has become a tragic epidemic that threatens the health and safety of communities across our state,\u201d Senators Collins and King said in a joint statement. \u201cUnused prescription drugs collecting in our homes are serious health and safety hazards, and can provide unsuspected gateways to addiction. Following a record collection earlier this year, we are confident that Mainers will continue to lead efforts to protect their children, their homes, and our environment from the abuse and improper handling of unused prescription drugs by participating in this program.\u201d\r\nFederal regulations allow pharmacies, hospitals, clinics, and other authorized collectors to serve as collection points for unused prescription medication. In 2014, following a consistent bipartisan effort led by Senator Collins and Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), the Department of Justice granted the Departments of Defense (DoD) and Veterans Affairs (VA) the ability to participate in prescription drug take-back programs at DoD and VA facilities. This initiative has helped to address the role of prescription drug abuse in many military and veteran suicides.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/maine-congressional-delegation-responds-to-eu-committees-dismissal-of-proposed-lobster-ban", "Maine Congressional Delegation Responds to EU Committee’s Dismissal of Proposed Lobster Ban", "2016-10-14", "2016", "2016-10", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Washington, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King and U.S. Representatives Chellie Pingree and Bruce Poliquin responded to today\u2019s announcement that the European Commission\u2019s Committee on Invasive Alien Species has decided that they will not proceed with the listing of American lobster as an invasive species at the European Union level. The decision brings an end to the proposal that threatened to end live American lobster exports to EU countries. Senators Collins and King and Representatives Pingree and Poliquin have strongly advocated for the Maine lobster industry and urged the EU to reject the proposal.\r\n\u201cWe are thrilled that the European Union listened to our concerns and will not list American lobster as an invasive species,\u201d said Senators Collins and King and Representatives Pingree and Poliquin in a joint statement. \u201cSince the import ban was requested by Sweden earlier this year, we repeatedly urged the European Union to reject the proposal, which would have had serious negative effects on thousands of hardworking Mainers who earn a living through the lobster industry. We are pleased that the European Commission took into account the firm scientific evidence as well as the consequences this harmful proposal could have had on the $200 million lobster trade and the thousands of Maine jobs that rely on it.\u201dOn March 28, 2016, the Maine delegation sent a letter\u00a0to Secretary of State John Kerry, U.S. Trade Representative Michael Froman and NOAA Administrator Dr. Kathryn Sullivan, urging them \u201cengage in immediate efforts to ensure the continuation of safe and responsible import of live Maine lobster.\u201d On June 17, 2016, in a letter to Daniel Calleja Crespo, Director General of Environment at the EU, members of the New England Congressional delegation, including U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King and Representative Chellie Pingree urged the European Union to reject the proposed lobster ban and reinforced the joint paper\u2019s conclusion. On June 22, 2016 the Maine delegation announced that a scientific committee of the European Union was going to consider the arguments presented by top U.S. and Canadian scientists in response to a Swedish request to ban the import of American lobsters into the EU.On September 16, 2016, the Maine delegation wrote to Daniel Calleja Crespo, Director General of Environment at the EU, requesting that the proposal continue to be measured against peer-reviewed science. The letter also urged Mr. Crespo to consider the economic repercussions of the proposed ban.Lobster continues to be one of the largest catches in U.S. waters, with more than 120 million pounds landed each year. The industry is a significant economic driver and important cultural tradition for coastal communities.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-and-king-applaud-sec-decision-to-delay-proposal-requiring-investors-to-opt-in-to-receive-financial-information-in-paper-form", "Senators Collins and King Applaud SEC Decision to Delay Proposal Requiring Investors to Opt In to Receive Financial Information in Paper Form", "2016-10-14", "2016", "2016-10", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Senators Collins and King Applaud SEC Decision to Delay Proposal Requiring Investors to Opt In to Receive Financial Information in Paper Form\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tSenators Collins and King Worked to Protect the Accessibility of Financial Reports and Disclosures from Mutual Funds\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tFriday, October 14, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King released the following statement today on the recent announcement that the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has decided to not pursue a proposed rule at this time that would have required individuals to opt in to receive mutual fund information in paper form. Senators Collins and King have strongly advocated to keep paper as the default delivery method for financial disclosures.\u00a0\r\n\u201cFor our nation\u2019s seniors, rural consumers, individuals with disabilities, and those without reliable Internet access, receiving paper disclosures is critical to ensuring that they can accurately track their investments,\u201d said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. \u201cThe SEC\u2019s misguided proposal would make it inconvenient and more difficult for many Americans who rely on mailings for their personal investment information, reports, and disclosures. We are encouraged that the Commission appears to have heard the concerns we expressed, along with advocacy groups like AARP, and is delaying final action on the proposal. We will continue to support Maine\u2019s consumers and paper industry workers and press for paper as the default delivery method for these important financial reports, the format most consumers prefer.\u201d\r\nDuring the SEC\u2019s comment period on its proposed rule, which was issued in May 2015, the agency received 965 public comments, 92 percent of which were in opposition to the rule. AARP, Twin Rivers Paper Company, which has a mill in Madawaska, Maine, and other important stakeholders also expressed their opposition to the proposed rule.In November of 2015, Senators Collins and King joined Senators John Boozman and Debbie Stabenow in sending a bipartisan letter to Mary Jo White, the Chair of the SEC, urging her to reconsider the agency\u2019s proposed rule. In addition, in August of 2015, Senators Collins and King joined Representative Bruce Poliquin in writing a letter to Chair White requesting that the proposed rule be open for comment for an additional 90 days.In June, the Senate Appropriations Committee approved a provision authored by Senators Collins that would ensure that paper remains the default delivery method for financial disclosures. Senator Collins, the Chairman of the Senate Aging Committee, expressed concern that the proposed rule would harm seniors who may not be able to access electronic information or may be more comfortable reviewing financial information in paper form.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/us-senators-collins-and-king-announce-185400-for-new-beginnings-in-lewiston", "U.S. Senators Collins and King Announce $185,400 for New Beginnings in Lewiston", "2016-10-14", "2016", "2016-10", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "U.S. Senators Collins and King Announce $185,400 for New Beginnings in Lewiston\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tFriday, October 14, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON D.C. \u2014 U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced today that the Lewiston non-profit New Beginnings, Inc. will receive $185,400 through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) to help expand New Beginnings\u2019 outreach services and support their work to improve the lives of homeless as well as runaway youth and families in crisis. New Beginnings\u2019 outreach program connects with youth who live outside the traditional service system in high-poverty urban and rural areas in central and western Maine. The funding was awarded through the DHHS Administration for Children and Families.\r\n\u201cThe work done by New Beginnings has a direct impact on young people and their families across Maine,\u201d Senators Collins and King said in a joint statement. \u201cThis organization has a long and successful history of working with homeless and at-risk youth. Last year alone, New Beginnings made nearly 2,000 contacts via street outreach and served more than 500 young people in their drop-in center. Moreover, using their case management services, the organization was able to place 86 percent of homeless youth into permanent housing. We are pleased that they are receiving this support to provide necessary services to some of Maine\u2019s most vulnerable young people.\u201d\r\n\u201cFor nearly 4 decades, New Beginnings has met homeless youths\u2019 most basic needs, connected at-risk teens to resources, and kept kids safe and off the streets,\u201d said Chris Bicknell, the Executive Director of New Beginnings. \u201cBeing awarded this competitive grant means that hundreds of youth in Androscoggin, Kennebec, and Franklin counties can continue to get the critical emergency supplies, counseling, and housing resources they need to become thriving and stable adults.\u201dSince opening its doors more than 35 years ago, New Beginnings has helped homeless youth gain the sense of safety and security of having a place to call home and provided them with other resources to succeed, from assistance with college applications to developing such life skills as living on a budget and learning to cook.In June 2015, Senator Collins, a long-time supporter of homeless youth programs, was joined by U.S. Housing and Urban Development Secretary, Juli\u00e1n Castro, in touring the New Beginnings\u2019 Ann Geiger Center in Lewiston to see firsthand how organizations in Maine are working to end runaway and youth homelessness. In addition, in April 2015, Senator Collins chaired an Appropriations Subcommittee hearing to examine HUD\u2019s efforts to prevent and end youth homelessness. At the invitation of Senator Collins, Brittany Dixon, an alumni of New Beginnings and a current Educational Technician for Washburn Elementary School in Auburn, shared powerful testimony about her experience as part of the New Beginnings program.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-20-million-in-low-interest-loans-for-rural-maine-communities", "Collins, King Announce $20 Million in Low-Interest Loans for Rural Maine Communities", "2016-10-06", "2016", "2016-10", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Collins, King Announce $20 Million in Low-Interest Loans for Rural Maine Communities\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tThursday, October 6, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced today that CEI in Brunswick has received a direct loan of $20 million as a Re-Lender through USDA Rural Development\u2019s Community Facilities Direct Loan & Grant Program. As a Re-Lender, CEI will use the loan to distribute fixed interest rate loans to purchase, construct, or improve community facilities, such as libraries or senior centers, in high-poverty, rural communities.\r\n\u201cCommunity centers are the focal point of many towns across Maine, providing members of the community with essential services and the opportunity to connect with fellow residents,\u201d said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. \u201cWe are pleased that this low-interest loan will allow rural towns throughout Maine to develop community centers and enhance citizens\u2019 quality of life.\u201d\r\nThe Community Facilities Direct Loan & Grant Program provides affordable funding to develop community facilities in rural areas. Examples of eligible community facilities include:\r\n \r\nEducational services such as libraries, museums, or private schools\r\nCommunity support services such as senior centers, child care centers, community centers, fairgrounds, or transitional housing\r\nHealth care facilities such as hospitals, medical clinics, dental clinics, nursing homes, or assisted living facilities\r\nPublic facilities such as town halls, courthouses, airport hangars, or street improvements\r\nPublic safety services such as fire departments, police stations, prisons, police vehicles, fire trucks, public works vehicles, or equipment\r\nUtility services such as telemedicine or distance learning equipment\r\nLocal food systems such as community gardens, food pantries, community kitchens, food banks, food hubs, or greenhouses\r\n \r\nCEI (Coastal Enterprises, Inc.) is a private, nonprofit Community Development Corporation and Community Development Financial Institution founded in 1977. The organization specializes in rural economic development in Maine and the United States. CEI's rural lending maintains a focus on natural resources-based industries and includes community facilities (including health care, child care, arts, and social services), affordable housing, renewable energy and microlending. Of the current $39.1 million loan portfolio, $26.9 million, or 68%, is rural.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-more-than-250000-to-protect-children-from-internet-crime", "Collins, King Announce More Than $250,000 to Protect Children from Internet Crime", "2016-10-05", "2016", "2016-10", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Collins, King Announce More Than $250,000 to Protect Children from Internet Crime\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, October 5, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced today that the Maine State Police will receive a total of $251,995 to support the Maine Computer Crimes Unit (CCU) in their efforts to protect children from Internet crime, reduce the backlog of evidence in current cases, and fund the creation of three positions within the CCU.\r\n\u201cFar too many children across the nation are at risk of exploitation online,\u201d said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. \u201cThis funding will increase the Maine State Police\u2019s ability to effectively respond to Internet crimes against children. We applaud the members of the Maine State Police and the Computer Crimes Unit for their unwavering dedication to the safety of Mainers and their efforts to adapt and respond to the changing nature of 21st century crime.\u201d\r\nThe funding was awarded through the National Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force Program, which consists of state and local law enforcement task forces dedicated to developing impactful responses to online enticement of children by sexual predators, child exploitation, and child obscenity and pornography cases. ICAC was established by the PROTECT our Children Act of 2008, which was co-sponsored by Senator Collins.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-congratulate-robin-alden-of-stonington-on-white-house-recognition-as-a-champion-of-change", "Collins, King Congratulate Robin Alden of Stonington on White House Recognition as a “Champion of Change”", "2016-10-05", "2016", "2016-10", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Collins, King Congratulate Robin Alden of Stonington on White House Recognition as a \u201cChampion of Change\u201d\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, October 5, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.\u00a0\u2013 U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King today congratulated Robin Alden of Stonington, a former Commissioner of the Maine Department of Marine Resources, on being named a \u201cChampion of Change for Sustainable Seafood\u201d by the White House. Robin is one of 12 people from across the country to receive the award, which recognizes local leaders who have devoted themselves to helping the United States become a global leader in sustainable seafood management. She will be formally recognized during a ceremony at the White House this\u00a0coming Friday, October 7, 2016 beginning\u00a0at 1:00 p.m.\r\n\r\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cWe are tremendously proud of Robin and are grateful for her incredible, collaborative work with Maine fishermen, scientists, and regulators to implement strategies and models that will help ensure the sustainability of this important facet of our economy for decades to come,\u201d\u00a0Senators Collins and King said in a joint statement. \u201cWith threats like climate change and ocean acidification impacting Maine\u2019s coastal waters, Robin\u2019s work is more important and more needed than ever before. We thank her and applaud the White House for rightly naming her a Champion of Change.\u201d\r\n\r\nRobin Alden is the founding Executive Director of Penobscot East Resource Center, Maine\u2019s center for coastal fisheries in Stonington, Maine. She led a path-breaking effort to bring shared management to Maine\u2019s lobster fishery, now recognized internationally as a model for sustainable fisheries. Robin served as Commissioner of the Maine Department of Marine Resources under then-Governor King, where she was responsible for Maine\u2019s marine and anadromous fishery management and enforcement and aquaculture in the state. She was also the publisher and editor of both Commercial Fisheries News and Fish Farming News and a public member of the New England Fishery Management Council.\r\n\r\nThe United States fishing industry is critical to the economic health and well-being of communities across the country, supporting 1.7 million jobs and contributing nearly $200 billion to the economy in 2014. However, our marine ecosystems are under threat from multiple stressors, including climate change and ocean acidification. The need for innovation in sustainable fisheries has never been greater.\u00a0Local leaders serve as the backbone of our communities, working to build resilient coasts and striving to protect the at-risk towns whose futures depend on the recovery of our fisheries. These Champions of Change are ensuring that the United States is a global leader in sustainable seafood management.\r\n\r\nFriday\u2019s ceremony will be livestreamed\u00a0HERE.\r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-colleagues-call-for-justice-department-to-hold-wells-fargo-executives-accountable_", "King, Colleagues Call for Justice Department to Hold Wells Fargo Executives Accountable", "2016-10-05", "2016", "2016-10", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "King, Colleagues Call for Justice Department to Hold Wells Fargo Executives Accountable  \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\tSenators: There Shouldn\u2019t Be a Separate Set of Rules for Wall Street and Main Street\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, October 5, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tRANGELEY, ME \u2013 U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) has joined a coalition of his colleagues in urging the Justice Department to investigate and, if appropriate, prosecute individual wrongdoing at Wells Fargo after revelations that the bank\u2019s employees had opened millions of accounts without customer approval. In September, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau issued its largest penalty to date of more than $100 million to the bank for the well-documented, unfair, and abusive practices that placed consumers at financial risk. In a letter sent yesterday, Senator King and his colleagues urged Attorney General Loretta Lynch to not only hold Wells Fargo accountable as a corporation, but also to prosecute individual executives who may have broken the law.\r\n\u201cA bank teller that takes a handful of bills from the cash drawer is likely to face charges for theft and prison time.\u00a0 She can\u2019t hide behind an army of lawyers and corporate policies that diffuse accountability for those at the top.\u00a0 Meanwhile, an executive who oversees a massive fraud that implicates thousands of bank employees and costs customers millions of dollars can walk away with a hefty retirement package and millions in the bank,\u201d Senator King and his colleagues wrote. \u201cEvery time the Department of Justice settles a case of corporate fraud without holding individuals accountable, it reinforces the notion that the wealthy and powerful have purchased a higher class of justice for themselves.\u201d\r\nThe letter from the Justice Department follows another that Senator King led last week calling on the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco\u2019s Board of Directors to not reappoint John Stumpf, the CEO of Wells Fargo, to another term on the Federal Advisory Council. The Council is responsible for consulting with and offering direct insight to the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System on a broad range of economic, monetary, and financial issues. Shortly after the letter was sent, Stumpf announced his resignation from the council.\r\nIn addition to Senator King, the letter sent to Attorney General Lynch was signed by Senators Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wisc.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Richard Durbin (D-Ill.), Al Franken (D-Minn.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Jeff Merkley (D-Oreg.), Bernard Sanders (I-Vt.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), and Ron Wyden (D-Oreg.).\r\nThe complete text of the letter is below:\r\n+++\r\nDear Attorney General Lynch:\r\nAccording to public filings, the Department of Justice is investigating whether Wells Fargo violated federal laws when its employees opened as many as two million deposit and credit card accounts without customer authorization over the span of several years.\r\nAs part of this investigation, we urge you to thoroughly investigate the culpability of senior executives at the bank.\u00a0 We believe this is a critical test of the Department\u2019s promise last September to \u201cstrengthen [its] pursuit of individual corporate wrongdoing\u201d and to \u201cfocus on individuals from the inception of the investigation.\u201d\u00a0\r\nFollowing the 2008 financial crisis, the American people watched as senior executives repeatedly escaped accountability for actions that nearly brought down the global economy.\u00a0 No top Wall Street executives went to prison or even faced prosecution.\u00a0 Instead, the government regularly settled for a penalty that was borne by the bank\u2019s shareholders, not its executives.\u00a0 Even that penalty tended to pale in comparison to the profits the bank generated from its illegal activity.\u00a0\r\nThat trend has continued.\u00a0 In 2015, for example, BNP Paribas was ordered to pay nearly $9 billion in penalties for violating sanctions against Sudan, Cuba, and Iran.\u00a0 The firm potentially compromised U.S. national security objectives by facilitating billions of dollars in transactions for sanctioned entities, yet none of the bank\u2019s employees faced charges.\r\nAmericans are rightly frustrated when they see that justice for the wealthy and powerful is very different than justice for everybody else.\u00a0 A bank teller that takes a handful of bills from the cash drawer is likely to face charges for theft and prison time.\u00a0 She can\u2019t hide behind an army of lawyers and corporate policies that diffuse accountability for those at the top.\u00a0 Meanwhile, an executive who oversees a massive fraud that implicates thousands of bank employees and costs customers millions of dollars can walk away with a hefty retirement package and millions in the bank.\u00a0 It\u2019s no wonder that Americans are skeptical of the effectiveness of our criminal justice system.\r\nThe Justice Department promised to change this two-tiered system in a September 9, 2015 memo issued to the nation\u2019s federal prosecutors by Deputy Attorney General Sally Quillian Yates.\u00a0 The memo articulated new policies that prioritize the investigation and prosecution of individual corporate employees.\u00a0 As stated in the memo, \u201c[o]ne of the most effective ways to combat corporate misconduct is by seeking accountability from the individuals who perpetrated the wrongdoing.\u201d In an interview following the release of the memo, Deputy Attorney General Yates stated, \u201cIt\u2019s only fair that the people who are responsible for committing those crimes be held accountable. The public needs to have confidence that there is one system of justice and it applies equally regardless of whether that crime occurs on a street corner or in a boardroom.\u201d\r\nWe could not agree more.\u00a0 Every time the Department of Justice settles a case of corporate fraud without holding individuals accountable, it reinforces the notion that the wealthy and powerful have purchased a higher class of justice for themselves.\u00a0\r\nThat\u2019s why the Wells Fargo investigation is so important.\u00a0 Last week\u2019s Senate Banking Committee hearing with Wells Fargo Chairman and CEO John Stumpf raised serious questions that demand additional answers and point to potential individual wrongdoing.\u00a0 Mr. Stumpf testified under oath that he became aware of employees creating fraudulent bank accounts in 2013.\u00a0 Yet for years thereafter, Mr. Stumpf did not disclose that information to investors and did not take decisive action to crack down on the incentives that encouraged that behavior, even as the bank fired more than 5000 employees for improper behavior.\u00a0 Instead, he continued to personally benefit by pitching Wells\u2019 inflated retail account numbers to investors.\u00a0\r\nWe are not in a position to determine if any of the senior executives at Wells Fargo committed criminal conduct.\u00a0 That is ultimately the job of the Justice Department and courts.\u00a0 But these facts raise questions about whether senior executives, including Mr. Stumpf, knowingly allowed illegal conduct to continue.\u00a0 As University of Virginia Law Professor Brandon Garrett noted, \u201cIf it was one person or even 100, you might argue it was a rogue contingent.\u00a0 But you can\u2019t seriously argue that 5,000 people have gone rogue. That\u2019s systemic behavior. People above them had to have noticed.\u201d\r\nWhile the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau and Office of the Comptroller of the Currency settlements in this case are a good first step toward providing restitution to Wells Fargo\u2019s customers, they are no substitute for a thorough Justice Department investigation into potential wrongdoing by senior executives at the bank.\u00a0 We hope the Department follows through on its promise in the Yates memo and brings all the resources it has to bear on investigating the conduct of Wells Fargo\u2019s senior leadership.\u00a0\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-colleagues-praise-dea-decision-to-lower-opioid-quotas", "King, Colleagues Praise DEA Decision to Lower Opioid Quotas", "2016-10-05", "2016", "2016-10", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "King, Colleagues Praise DEA Decision to Lower Opioid Quotas\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, October 5, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tRANGELEY, ME \u2013 U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) today joined several of his colleagues, including Senators Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), and Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.), in praising the Drug Enforcement Administration\u2019s (DEA) decision to reduce next year\u2019s production quotas for nearly all Schedule II prescription opioids by 25 percent or more. Three powerful, addictive painkillers will see the most significant reductions from what is allowed on the market this year: hydrocodone (34 percent reduction), oxymorphone (45 percent reduction), and hydromorphone (38 percent reduction).\r\n\u201cThe size and scope of the U.S. opioid epidemic requires immediate, sweeping action from federal and local governments, health care professionals, and drug companies,\u201d Senator King and his colleagues said in a joint statement. \u201cWe commend the DEA for using its authority to significantly reduce the quantity of addictive painkillers that are flooding the market. This action will help prevent individuals from becoming addicted in the first place. We must now continue to use all the tools at our disposal to enhance federal oversight of prescription opioids, improve prescribing practices, and address barriers to addiction treatment. Failure to act will result in more heroin and opioid overdose deaths and more Americans becoming addicted.\u201d\r\nSenator King had joined his colleagues earlier this year in urging the agency to keep addictive painkillers from flooding the U.S. market by setting lower quotas in the coming years.\u00a0 In the July 2016 letter, the Senators urged DEA Acting Administrator Chuck Rosenberg to use the agency\u2019s quota-setting authority to reduce the quantity of opioid pills on the market in order to combat the ongoing prescription opioid and heroin epidemic. The letter outlined changes the DEA should adopt to improve the quota-setting process, including: making the quotas that each drug company receives public; justifying the public health benefits of any opioid quota increase; and taking the opioid epidemic into consideration when setting quotas.\r\nWith its existing quota-setting authority, the DEA effectively serves as a gatekeeper for how many opioids can be produced and sold in the United States every year. Over the past two decades, the DEA had approved ever-greater increases in opioid quotas, allowing production of oxycodone to increase 39-fold, hydrocodone to increase 12-fold, hydromorphone to increase 23-fold, and fentanyl to increase 25-fold.\u00a0 Today\u2019s announcement represents the largest decrease in opioid production quotas in two decades.\u00a0\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/us-senators-collins-king-announce-336976-for-wabanaki-womens-coalition", "U.S. Senators Collins, King Announce $336,976 for Wabanaki Women’s Coalition", "2016-10-05", "2016", "2016-10", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "U.S. Senators Collins, King Announce $336,976 for Wabanaki Women\u2019s Coalition\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, October 5, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced today that the Wabanaki Women\u2019s Coalition received a total of $336,976 from the Tribal Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Coalitions Program, which is funded by the U.S. Department of Justice Office on Violence Against Women.\r\n\u201cThe Wabanaki Women\u2019s Coalition is a vital resource for members of Maine\u2019s Native American communities,\u201d Senators Collins and King said in a joint statement. \u201cThis grant will help the Coalition enhance tribal communities\u2019 ability to respond to sexual assault and domestic violence, advocate for victims of these crimes, and ensure that victims receive necessary care.\u201d\r\nThe Wabanaki Women\u2019s Coalition is comprised of five tribal communities in Maine: Aroostook Band of Micmacs, Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians, Indian Township Passamaquoddy, Penobscot Indian Nation, and Pleasant Point Passamaquoddy. This grant will expand domestic violence and sexual assault services for individuals in Aroostook, Penobscot, and Washington Counties.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-140001-for-shaw-house-in-bangor-to-support-homeless-and-at-risk-youth", "Collins, King Announce $140,001 for Shaw House in Bangor to Support Homeless and At-Risk Youth", "2016-10-04", "2016", "2016-10", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Collins, King Announce $140,001 for Shaw House in Bangor to Support Homeless and At-Risk Youth\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTuesday, October 4, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced today that Shaw House, a non-profit in Bangor that serves homeless and at-risk youth, will receive a total of $140,001 through the Administration for Children and Families (ACF). The funding will support operations at Shaw House\u2019s Basic Center Program (BCP) for homeless and runaway youth and their families. Senators Collins and King wrote a letter in support of Shaw House\u2019s grant application in June.\r\n\u201cFor 25 years, Shaw House has been a vital resource to Maine youth living in high-risk situations, providing an array of services, from emergency shelter to comprehensive counseling and outreach,\u201d Senators Collins and King said in a joint statement. \u201cThis funding will help Shaw House achieve positive outcomes for participants, including family reunification and securing alternative living arrangements for youth unable to return to their families.\u201d\r\nShaw House serves youth from five rural counties in Maine, and its goals include increasing family reunification, providing more secure living arrangements for youth who are unable to return to their homes, and reducing homelessness across Maine. The Program staff will use ACF support to build programs that use positive youth development frameworks and evidence-based practices to improve the overall health and well-being of at-risk and homeless youth, as well as provide necessary support for successful transitions to adulthood. ACF is an agency within the Department of Health and Human Services that oversees major federal programs that deal with social services, protective services, and adoption for children.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-nearly-900000-for-houlton-band-of-maliseets-to-strengthen-sexual-assault-domestic-violence-prevention_", "Collins, King Announce Nearly $900,000 for Houlton Band of Maliseets to Strengthen Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence Prevention", "2016-10-04", "2016", "2016-10", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Collins, King Announce Nearly $900,000 for Houlton Band of Maliseets to Strengthen Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence Prevention  \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTuesday, October 4, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced today that the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians will receive a total of $899,732 over three years from the Office on Violence Against Women at the Department of Justice.\r\n\u201cVictims of sexual assault and domestic violence deserve every possible resource to report and prevent these crimes,\u201d Senators Collins and King said in a joint statement. \u201cWe welcome this investment, which will bolster the Tribal Government\u2019s efforts to stop violence against women and increase safety in the Maliseet community.\u201d\r\nThe project\u2019s primary objective is to ensure that victims of domestic violence and sexual assault receive appropriate, culturally specific, and easily accessible confidential responses. The comprehensive victim services include advocacy, emergency shelter, transitional housing assistance, legal assistance, support group, a 24-hour crisis line, referrals, education, outreach, hospital accompaniment. The project will also provide for education and a coordinated community response.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-king-announce-197000-to-fund-crime-victim-compensation-program", "Senators Collins, King Announce $197,000 to Fund Crime Victim Compensation Program", "2016-10-04", "2016", "2016-10", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Senators Collins, King Announce $197,000 to Fund Crime Victim Compensation Program\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTuesday, October 4, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced today that the Maine Office of the Attorney General will receive $197,000 through the Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) Crime Victims Fund. Funds from the Crime Victims Fund enhance state victim compensation payments to eligible crime victims.\r\n\u201cNo one who has been the target of a crime should be forced to shoulder expenses resulting from being victimized,\u201d Senators Collins and King said in a joint statement. \u201cBy supplementing state funding to reimburse victims for out-of-pocket expenses relating to a crime, this grant will help individuals recover more quickly.\u201dThe Crime Victims Fund was established as a 1988 amendment to the Victims of Crimes Act of 1984. The Fund seeks to support victims of crime and recognizes that victims may face substantial challenges and be entitled to monetary compensation. It is financed by fines and penalties paid by convicted federal offenders.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-and-poliquin-announce-agreement-between-usps-and-swans-island-and-frenchboro-mail-carrier-restoring-residents-access-to-vital-goods-and-services", "Collins, King, and Poliquin Announce Agreement Between USPS and Swan’s Island and Frenchboro Mail Carrier, Restoring Residents’ Access to Vital Goods and Services", "2016-10-03", "2016", "2016-10", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Collins, King, and Poliquin Announce Agreement Between USPS and Swan\u2019s Island and Frenchboro Mail Carrier, Restoring Residents\u2019 Access to Vital Goods and Services\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tMonday, October 3, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013\u00a0U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King and Congressman Bruce Poliquin announced that an agreement has been reached between the United States Postal Service (USPS) and a mail delivery person to Swan\u2019s Island and Frenchboro.\r\n\u201cWe are pleased that this agreement has been reached so that the citizens of these island communities can continue to receive their mail in a timely and efficient manner,\u201d\u00a0said Senators Collins and King and Congressman Poliquin.\u00a0 \u201cMaine\u2019s island communities face unique challenges, and it\u2019s critical that government agencies, like USPS, work with those communities to ensure that their needs are accommodated in a way that works for everyone. We are pleased that is what ultimately happened here.\u201d\r\nBrian Krafjack, the owner of the Island Market & Supply (TIMS) in Swan\u2019s Island, said, \u201cI'd like to thank the Congressional Delegation for helping restore a service that had been provided to Swan's Island and Frenchboro for six decades. \u00a0For islands with limited populations it is critical, and just makes sense, that non-USPS cargo is allowed to be transported along with the mail by the same supplier.\u201d\r\nThe offices of Senators Collins and King and Congressman Poliquin have been working closely with the USPS, the towns of Swan\u2019s Island and Frenchboro, and community leaders regarding delivery service to the islands.\u00a0 In August, they sent a letter to Postmaster General Brennan to relay the concerns of island residents. The USPS ultimately considered the concerns raised by the communities and awarded a contract to Louis \u201cL.J.\u201d Hopkins.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-625000-in-police-funding-for-maine", "Collins, King Announce $625,000 in Police Funding for Maine", "2016-10-03", "2016", "2016-10", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Collins, King Announce $625,000 in Police Funding for Maine\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tMonday, October 3, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C.\u00a0\u2013 U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced today that the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has awarded four Maine police departments a total of $625,000 to hire police officers. The Augusta Police Department, Ellsworth Police Department, and Westbrook Police Department will each receive $125,000, and the Biddeford Police Department will receive $250,000.\r\n\u201cCommunities across Maine rely on local law enforcement to help keep them safe, and federal investments can play an important role in assisting those community efforts,\u201d said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. \u201cThis grant funding will support local police departments as they work to protect families and promote public safety.\u201d\u00a0\r\nThe funding was awarded through the DOJ\u2019s COPS Hiring Program (CHP). CHP was designed to advance public safety through community policing by addressing the full-time sworn officer needs of state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies nationwide. CHP provides funds directly to law enforcement agencies to hire new and/or rehire career law enforcement officers, and to increase their community policing capacity and prevention efforts.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/with-local-leaders-and-community-members-king-officially-opens-new-bangor-office", "With Local Leaders and Community Members, King Officially Opens New Bangor Office", "2016-10-03", "2016", "2016-10", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "With Local Leaders and Community Members, King Officially Opens New Bangor Office\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tMonday, October 3, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tBANGOR, ME \u2013 Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) officially opened the doors of his new Bangor-based Senate office. Senator King held an open house to welcome local leaders and members of the community to his new office, which is located in the Margaret Chase Smith Federal Building, and will serve as a resource for Mainers throughout the area who are seeking assistance with the federal government or who wish to be in touch with Senator King.\r\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cOne of my most important responsibilities is helping people across Maine in their interactions with the federal government,\u201d Senator King said. \u201cI hope this office will serve as another resource in that effort, and I also hope it will play a beneficial role in supporting our ongoing work to strengthen the forest products economy here, in the Katahdin Region, and across the state.\u201d\r\nThe office, which has been in operation since July, is open full time and is staffed by Regional Representative Edie Smith and Constituent Service Representative Megan Stewart. In addition to the Bangor location, Senator King also has offices located in Presque Isle, Augusta, and Scarborough, and his staff frequently conducts community outreach hours across the state through his \u201cYour Government, Your Neighborhood\u201d initiative.\r\nPrior to the open house, Senator King also delivered remarks at the Maine County Commissioners Association Annual Convention, which was held at the Hilton Garden Inn in Bangor.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-9-million-for-the-maine-department-of-labor", "Collins, King Announce $9 Million for the Maine Department of Labor", "2016-09-30", "2016", "2016-09", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Collins, King Announce $9 Million for the Maine Department of Labor\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tFriday, September 30, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced today that the Maine Department of Labor will receive $9,000,000 from the U.S. Department of Education to expand vocational and educational opportunities for Maine students with disabilities.\r\n\u201cFew issues are as important to the State of Maine as the availability of good jobs and access to quality education,\u201d said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. \u201cThis innovative program represents a novel approach to increasing the accessibility of competitive jobs and postsecondary education for young Mainers with disabilities. This investment will expand economic opportunities for Mainers across the state.\u201d\r\nThrough this grant, the Maine Department of Labor will develop a Transition Work-Based Learning Model Demonstration program in partnership with Jobs for Maine Graduates and other local community organizations to match Maine high school graduates with disabilities with employers and vocational training programs. The model is expected to serve at least 200 students with disabilities per year that are within two years of graduation from high school. The program aims to have at least ninety percent of participants enrolled in postsecondary education or competitive integrated employment within the first year following high school graduation.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-464500-in-economic-development-grants-across-maine", "Collins, King Announce $464,500 in Economic Development Grants Across Maine", "2016-09-29", "2016", "2016-09", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Collins, King Announce $464,500 in Economic Development Grants Across Maine\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tThursday, September 29, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWashington, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced today that a total of $464,500 has been awarded to seven Maine organizations through the Economic Development Administration\u2019s comprehensive economic development strategy (CEDS) program. The awards will be used by the organizations to establish an economic development planning framework, process, and strategy that supports private capital investment and job creation in their respective regions.\r\n\u201cCollaboration between the public and private sectors is essential for promoting business expansion and robust job growth,\u201d Senators Collins and King said in a joint statement. \u201cBy supporting regional economic development, these investments will help strengthen and diversify the economies of our local communities.\u201d\r\nThe names of the grantees and the amounts awarded are as follows:\r\n \r\nThe Midcoast Economic Development District was awarded $70,000.\r\n \r\n \r\nThe Southern Maine Regional Planning Commission was awarded $70,000.\r\n \r\n \r\nThe Greater Portland Council of Governments was awarded $70,000.\r\n \r\n \r\nThe Kennebec Valley Council of Governments was awarded $70,000.\r\n \r\n \r\nThe Eastern Maine Development Corporation was awarded $70,000.\r\n \r\n \r\nThe Androscoggin Valley Council of Governments was awarded $70,000.\r\n \r\n \r\nThe Penobscot Indian Nation was awarded $44,500.\r\n \r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-more-than-750000-federal-investment-in-sanford-broadband-infrastructure-", "Collins, King Announce More Than $750,000 Federal Investment in Sanford Broadband Infrastructure", "2016-09-29", "2016", "2016-09", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Collins, King Announce More Than $750,000 Federal Investment in Sanford Broadband Infrastructure \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tThursday, September 29, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King today announced that the City of Sanford will receive $769,209 in grant funding from the Economic Development Administration to expand local broadband infrastructure and improve the region\u2019s economic competitiveness. The funding will support the construction of an open-access municipal fiber optic network that will serve the Mill Yard complex located in downtown Sanford, a 600-acre industrial park, and over 80 businesses and institutions currently not served with high-speed broadband.\r\n\u201cAccess to the Internet is a vital resource that can connect Maine people to the information and opportunities they need to succeed in today\u2019s digital world,\u201d said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. \u201cThis funding is a significant investment in Maine broadband infrastructure and the future of the Sanford area.\u00a0 We will continue to work with our partners at all levels of government and in the private sector to promote broadband expansion across Maine.\u201d\r\nThis broadband project will bolster entrepreneurship within the Mill Yard complex and improve Sanford\u2019s commercial and industrial competitiveness. The project is expected to create more than 140 jobs and leverage more than $1 million in private investment.\r\nSenator King is a founding co-chair of the Senate Broadband Caucus, which works to strengthen broadband infrastructure and deployment across the country.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-congratulate-three-maine-schools-awarded-national-blue-ribbon-recognition", "Collins, King Congratulate Three Maine Schools Awarded National Blue Ribbon Recognition", "2016-09-29", "2016", "2016-09", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Collins, King Congratulate Three Maine Schools Awarded National Blue Ribbon Recognition\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tThursday, September 29, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King applauded Falmouth Middle School, Reeds Brook Middle School in Hampden, and Sea Road School in Kennebunk for being recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as 2016 National Blue Ribbon Schools. These Maine schools are three of only 329 public and private schools across the nation being recognized for this achievement in 2016.\u00a0    \u00a0   \u201cEducators across Maine work tirelessly to help build a brighter future for our state, and these three Blue Ribbon schools are shining examples of that positive impact,\u201d said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. \u201cEducation is a collective effort, and these awards are well deserved by the teachers, administrators, families, and students who all make Falmouth Middle School, Reeds Brook Middle School, and Sea Road School fantastic places to learn and grow. We are proud of Maine\u2019s 2016 Blue Ribbon schools and congratulate them on earning this recognition.\u201d    \u00a0   For 34 years, the National Blue Ribbon Schools Program has honored public and private elementary, middle, and high schools. Blue Ribbon schools are recognized for overall academic excellence or for making notable improvements in closing the achievement gap. Representatives from Falmouth Middle School, Reeds Brook Middle School, and Sea Road School are invited to Washington, D.C., for a recognition ceremony in November. At the ceremony, each Blue Ribbon school will be presented with an award plaque and a flag.    \u00a0\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-nearly-100000-in-department-of-justice-funding-for-penobscot-indian-nation-", "Collins, King Announce Nearly $100,000 in Department of Justice Funding for Penobscot Indian Nation", "2016-09-28", "2016", "2016-09", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Collins, King Announce Nearly $100,000 in Department of Justice Funding for Penobscot Indian Nation \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, September 28, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 Today, U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced that the Penobscot Indian Nation will receive $99,000 in grant funding from the Department of Justice (DOJ) to support tribal law enforcement efforts.\u00a0\r\n\u201cCommunities across Maine rely on local law enforcement to help keep them safe, and federal investments can play an important role in assisting those community efforts,\u201d said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. \u201cThis grant funding from the Department of Justice will allow the Penobscot Indian Nation to support local policing efforts to protect families and promote public safety.\u201d \u00a0\r\nThe grant is being awarded as part of the Department of Justice\u2019s Coordinated Tribal Assistance Solicitation (CTAS) Grant Program, which allows federally recognized tribal organizations to submit a single application for most of DOJ\u2019s tribal grant programs. This funding for the Penobscot Indian Nation comes specifically through the DOJ\u2019s Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS).\r\nUnder CTAS, the COPS Office works to meet the most serious needs of tribal law enforcement. The COPS funding can be used to hire or re-hire law enforcement officials, procure equipment, or support training to initiate or enhance local community policing efforts.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-welcomes-funding-to-fight-opioid-epidemic-in-continuing-resolution", "King Welcomes Funding to Fight Opioid Epidemic in Continuing Resolution", "2016-09-28", "2016", "2016-09", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "King Welcomes Funding to Fight Opioid Epidemic in Continuing Resolution\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tWednesday, September 28, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 With the support of U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), the U.S. Senate today passed a Continuing Resolution (CR) that will fund the federal government through December 9th, 2016 and includes funding for drug treatment and recovery programs authorized through the Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act (CARA). In a September 8th letter to the President and Senate leaders, Senator King specifically requested the funding be included in the CR.\r\n\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 \u201cThis funding, although not nearly enough, is a welcome step forward and, at the very least, is a starting point for what I hope will be a larger effort to finally put our money where our mouths are when it comes to fighting addiction,\u201d Senator King said. \u201cThe opioid and heroin epidemic is shattering lives across Maine, and communities need federal investment and support to fight back and save lives. While this is a step in the right direction, I hope in the coming months that the Senate can significantly boost this funding through a long-term budget rather than a temporary funding measure.\u201d\r\nThe continuing resolution will provide approximately $7 million to support CARA-authorized programs between now and December 9th. Of that funding, about $3.84 million will go towards U.S. Department of Justice programs and about $3.27 million will go to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The Departments will then allocate that money.\r\nThe inclusion of the funding follows a letter written by Senator King to leaders of the Senate Appropriations Committee urging them to fund CARA in the continuing resolution. He wrote a similar letter to President Obama, and also spoke on the Senate floor to implore his colleagues to act on this pressing issue that is affecting communities across America.\r\nThe Comprehensive Addiction and Recovery Act, which was passed by Congress and signed into law by the President earlier this year, authorized government programs to combat the opioid and heroin crisis but did not actually appropriate any money to do so. Senator King has repeatedly called for Congress to step up and fund CARA at a time when drug-related deaths in Maine are on track to surpass last year\u2019s record numbers.\r\nSenator King has been a leading proponent of providing adequate funding to fight the heroin and opioid crisis. In January 2016, he cosponsored legislation with Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) that would dedicate $600 million to law enforcement programs at the Department of Justice and treatment programs through the Department of Health and Human Services. The Senate earlier this year rejected that legislation as an amendment to CARA, which Senator King\u00a0criticized\u00a0as a \u201cmissed opportunity.\u201d\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/-collins-king-poliquin-announce-more-than-115000-in-federal-funding-for-umaine-and-usm-to-support-forest-products-industry-", "Collins, King, Poliquin Announce More Than $115,000 in Federal Funding for UMaine and USM to Support Forest Products Industry", "2016-09-27", "2016", "2016-09", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Collins, King, Poliquin Announce More Than $115,000 in Federal Funding for UMaine and USM to Support Forest Products Industry \n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tTuesday, September 27, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013\u00a0U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King and U.S. Representative Bruce Poliquin announced today that the University Center Economic Development Program at the University of Maine and University of Southern Maine will receive a total of $116,667 in grant funding from the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) to support technical assistance for Maine\u2019s forest products sector. In June, the Senators wrote a letter to the EDA in support of the project.\r\n\u201cThe continued effort to strengthen the forest products economy requires an all-hands-on-deck approach, which is why we welcome this additional investment from the Economic Development Administration,\u201d said Senators Collins and King and Representative Poliquin in a joint statement. \u201cThe University of Southern Maine has served as an EDA University Center for decades, and this funding will help expand that positive impact to UMaine-Orono.\u00a0 Working together, our universities can continue to play an active and important role in building a brighter future for the Maine forest products sector and for our economy as a whole.\u201d\r\nThe EDA investment announced today will fund the University Center Economic Development Program at University of Maine in partnership with the University of Southern Maine.\u00a0 That program will work to bolster Maine\u2019s forest products industry and the communities it supports by providing technical assistance, attracting innovation to the state, and engaging Maine\u2019s entrepreneurial community.\r\nThe EDA is an agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce, and has spearheaded the multi-agency Economic Development Assistance Team (EDAT)\u00a0that is now working with stakeholders in our state on an action plan to strengthen\u00a0the future of Maine\u2019s forest products industry. Senators Collins and King sent a letter to the Department of Commerce in March 2016 requesting the formation of the EDAT, and along with Representative Poliquin at the University of Maine in July, announced a total of $7.7 million in federal investment to support Maine\u2019s forest products industry.\r\nThe EDA's University Center program is a competitively-awarded partnership program between the EDA and academic institutions. The program works to connect university resources with the economic development community. The University of Southern Maine has served as an EDA University Center for more than 40 years, and this award will expand that designation to include the University of Maine at Orono. \u00a0\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/-collins-king-announce-300000-for-sexual-assault-and-domestic-violence-advocacy-in-immigrant-community", "Collins, King Announce $300,000 for Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Advocacy in Immigrant Community", "2016-09-26", "2016", "2016-09", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Collins, King Announce $300,000 for Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Advocacy in Immigrant Community\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tMonday, September 26, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2014 U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced today that the Immigration Resource Center of Maine (formerly the United Somali Women of Maine) in Lewiston will receive $300,000 from the Office on Violence Against Women through the Grants to Enhance Culturally Specific Services Program.\r\n\u201cEvery victim of sexual assault and domestic violence deserves the resources to report and prevent these crimes,\u201d Senators Collins and King said in a joint statement. \u201cThe Immigration Resource Center of Maine\u2019s culturally specific services ensure that members of Maine\u2019s East African community have the tools, support, and education they need to live free from fear.\u201d\r\nThrough this grant, the Immigration Resource Center of Maine (IRCofMe) will create, maintain, and expand its culturally specific sexual assault services for East African sexual assault victims living in Southern Maine. The Immigrant Resource Center Of Maine was formerly known as United Somali Women of Maine, and changed its name in 2016 to reflect the full scope of services provided. The organization\u2019s mission is to support refugee and immigrant communities through culturally and linguistically-sensitive services that include education, training and victim services.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-9458354-for-the-maine-department-of-health-and-human-services", "Collins, King Announce $9,458,354 for the Maine Department of Health and Human Services", "2016-09-26", "2016", "2016-09", "Independent", "House", "ME", "Angus King", "K000383", "www.king.senate.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Collins, King Announce $9,458,354 for the Maine Department of Health and Human Services\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\tMonday, September 26, 2016\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tWASHINGTON, D.C. \u2013 U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced today that the Maine Department of Health and Human Services will receive a total of $9,458,354 through the Department of Justice Crime Victims Fund to enhance crime victim services in Maine.\r\n\u201cThis investment will allow Maine\u2019s crime victim assistance organizations to enhance the vital programs and services they provide,\u201d\u00a0said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement.\u00a0 \u201cBy ensuring that victims have the support and resources they need in the aftermath of a crime, this funding will help victims recover more successfully.\u201d\r\nThe grant is being awarded by the Department of Justice\u2019s Office for Victims of Crime. Victims of Crime Act assistance funds are typically competitively awarded by the state to local community-based organizations that provide direct services to crime victims.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"]], "truncated": false, "filtered_table_rows_count": 250, "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": "Independent", "p1": "ME", "p2": "2016"}}, "facet_results": {"party": {"name": "party", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Independent&state=ME&year=2016", "results": [{"value": "Independent", "label": "Independent", "count": 250, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=ME&year=2016", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "chamber": {"name": "chamber", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Independent&state=ME&year=2016", "results": [{"value": "House", "label": "House", "count": 250, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Independent&state=ME&year=2016&chamber=House", "selected": false}], "truncated": false}, "state": {"name": "state", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Independent&state=ME&year=2016", "results": [{"value": "ME", "label": "ME", "count": 250, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Independent&year=2016", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "year": {"name": "year", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Independent&state=ME&year=2016", "results": [{"value": "2016", "label": "2016", "count": 250, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Independent&state=ME", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}}, "suggested_facets": [], "next": "2016-09-26,https~3A~2F~2Fwww~2Eking~2Esenate~2Egov~2Fnewsroom~2Fpress-releases~2Fcollins-king-announce-9458354-for-the-maine-department-of-health-and-human-services", "next_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Independent&state=ME&year=2016&_next=2016-09-26%2Chttps~3A~2F~2Fwww~2Eking~2Esenate~2Egov~2Fnewsroom~2Fpress-releases~2Fcollins-king-announce-9458354-for-the-maine-department-of-health-and-human-services&_sort_desc=date", "private": false, "allow_execute_sql": true, "query_ms": 161.94098396226764, "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"}