{"database": "press", "table": "releases", "is_view": false, "human_description_en": "where party = \"Republican\", state = \"NJ\" and year = 2020 sorted by date descending", "rows": [["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409099", "<span class =\"kicker\">Would create ambassador position to combat anti-Semitism</span>Smith anti-Semitism bill headed to Presidents desk", "2020-12-31", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Today, at the very last legislative session of the 116th Congress, the House of Representatives passed legislation authored by Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) that would elevate the State Department's Anti-Semitism Special Envoy positionfirst created by Smith's legislative provisions in 2004to an Ambassadorship, giving more clout to address the alarming rise in anti-Semitism worldwide. As the Senate has already approved the amended legislation, the bill now heads to President Trump's desk to be signed into law.   We've seen a rapid rise in anti-Semitic acts and rhetoric in many countries over the past decade: Jews harassed, assaulted and even murdered; synagogues attacked; graves and cemeteries desecrated; anti-Semitic slurs; and targeting the State of Israel with what my friend, the great Soviet refusenik and religious prisoner Natan Sharansky, calls the three Ds' demonization, double-standard, and de-legitimization, said Smith.   My new law will raise the Special Envoy to the rank of Ambassador, and enable him or her to report directly to the Secretary of State, Smith said. That will give the Special Envoy more seniority and diplomatic accessboth inside the U.S. Government and when engaging foreign governmentsthat is needed do the job effectively.  Especially with the rise of on-line anti-Semitism, we see that hate abroad easily crosses borders and impacts our communities here at home.Now more than ever we need to integrate our efforts both in the United States and abroad to stop the hate and keep our communities safe, said Smith, a founding member of both the House Anti-Semitism Caucus and the Inter-Parliamentary Task Force to Combat Online Antisemitism, which is comprised of legislative-branch members from Israel, the United States, the United Kingdom and Australia.   Smith's bill, the Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Anti-Semitism Act (H.R. 221) will ensure that the U.S. leadership position in fighting anti-Semitism worldwidethe Special Envoy at the State Departmentwould not only be promptly filled, but would be strengthened. The position, as well as the State Department's Office to Monitor and Combat Anti-Semitism, was created and required by Smith's original provisionsof theGlobal Anti-Semitism Review Act of 2004. Smith's new bill would also mandate the timely nomination of a Special Envoy.\r\n  Under the bill the Special Envoy position:\r\n Would be elevated to the rank of Ambassador at the State Department and report directly to the Secretary of State;\r\n Would be the primary advisor to the U.S. government in monitoring and combating anti-Semitism;\r\n Would not be saddled with duties irrelevant to combating anti-Semitism, or double-hatted;\r\n Must be filled (if vacant) by requiring the President to nominate a Special Envoy within 90 days of the bill becoming law and not later than 120 days after the position becomes vacant.\r\n I would like to thank my House colleagues, especially Congressman Brad Schneider (D-IL), for working with leadership in both parties to pass this bill. I also would like to thank Senators Marco Rubio (R-FL), Jackie Rosen (D-NV) and Kristen Gillibrand (D-FL), along with their staffs, for their hard work in securing passage on the Senate side.I would also like to acknowledge and thank Special Envoy Elan Carr for his tremendous contribution in fighting anti-Semitism.And finally, I want to thank the many wonderful Jewish groups who fought hard for this legislation.\r\n The House voted overwhelmingly to pass Smith's H.R. 221 in 2019. In the previous 115th Congress, Smith introduced identical legislation, H.R. 1911, which passed the House in 2018, but stalled in the Senate. Smith's bill is endorsed by numerous organizations, including the Anti-Defamation League, B'nai B'rith International, the Simon Wiesenthal Center, the American Jewish Committee, Hadassah, the Jewish Council for Public Affairs, and the Jewish Federations of North America.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409097", "Rep. Smith votes 'YES' to increase COVID-19 relief assistance checks to $2,000", "2020-12-28", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Rep. Chris Smith (NJ-04) today said: The increase of COVID-19 relief checks to $2,000 coupled with yesterday's extension of the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), expanded unemployment benefits and other assistance are justified and necessary to assist tens of millions of people devastated by the pandemic and like previous COVID relief packages are a bridge to a post-COVID world.  \r\n\r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409075", "<span class =\"kicker\">The Monitor of Trenton article on Smith congressional hearing</span>Genocide in Nigeria 'happening before our eyes,' N.J. congressman says at hearing", "2020-12-22", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Kurt Jensen, Catholic News Service\r\n\r\nThe Catholic bishop of Gboko, Nigeria, and the Knights of Columbus added their voices to a Dec. 17 congressional hearing spotlighting sectarian violence in Nigeria in which thousands of Christians have been killed simply for their faith identity.\r\nThe hearing of the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission was spurred by recent developments: the fatal shooting of 51 peaceful protesters in Lagos Oct. 20; the kidnapping of over 300 schoolboys in Kankara, which government officials there said was instigated by bandits masquerading as the Islamist terrorist group Boko Haram; and the Dec. 7 State Department designation of Nigeria as \"a country of particular concern\" under the International Religious Freedom Act of 1998.\r\nThe boys were rescued Dec. 18, and while the hearing included discussion of a congressional resolution of condemnation plus the imposition of sanctions, it didn't get into the specifics of either response. Sanctions would become a decision of the incoming Biden administration.\r\n\"This is a genocide that's happening right before our eyes,\" said Republican Rep. Chris Smith of New Jersey, the commission's co-chair.\r\nSmith, a native of Hamilton and ranking member of the House Foreign Affairs Africa Subcommittee, has chaired seven previous hearings on human rights violations in Nigeria, the most populated country in Africa.\r\nThe United States and the international community must do more to mitigate the violence because the dire situation on the ground warrants it and because the people of Nigeria deserve to live in peace and freedom with their fundamental human rights guaranteed, he said.\r\nBishop William A. Avenya of Goboko agreed, saying, \"It is depressing that our Middle Belt region has truly become a vale of tears, a region where mass burials are very common. Since the consistent attacks began some five years ago, there has hardly been a single day without killing in one part of the region or the other.\r\nIn fact, one cannot give the accurate figures of those who have been killed since the beginning of these atrocities,\" he said.\r\n\"Interestingly,\" Bishop Avenya continued, \"no one has ever been arrested or questioned or prosecuted or convicted of any charge related to this spree of killings. Yet, these killers are not invisible, neither are they unknown. Instead, these atrocities are made to look as though they were ethnic or communal clashes.\"\r\n\"Nigeria's Christians have suffered grievously at the hands of Boko Haram and other groups,\" said Carl Anderson, Supreme Knight of the Knights of Columbus, in a statement. \"The Christians of Nigeria, both Catholic and Protestant, deserve attention, recognition and relief now.\"\r\nThe death toll from the conflict in Nigeria's Middle Belt region caused by the pastoralists, or cattle herders, who are mainly Muslim and ethnic Fulani, against farmers, who are predominantly Christian, relies on analyses from humanitarian groups, since it is never verified by the government.\r\nAn estimated 2,000 are believed to have been killed annually between 2011 and 2016 as the conflicts over land and a dwindling water supply, exacerbated by climate change, continue.\r\nReligious organizations have urged the American government to pressure the Nigerian state to provide protection.\r\nEarlier this year, the International Committee on Nigeria calculated, based on what they said were primary sources on the ground, that since 2015, Fulani militant attacks are \"exponentially increasing,\" killing more than 9,700 in the past five years.\r\nAdding to the urgency, the latest statistical risk assessment of the Holocaust Memorial Museum's Simon-Skjodt Center for the Prevention of Genocide calculated that Nigeria faces a 7.3 percent risk of experiencing a new mass killing by the end of 2021, the 6th highest in the world. In 2019, Nigeria was ranked 17th with a 5 percent risk.\r\nGenocide has become virtually a daily threat, said Annigje J. Buwalda, executive director of Jubilee Campaign USA. \"We would additionally ask that more consideration be proffered to ... the rising frequency of deadly midnight attacks on predominantly Christian farming communities in Nigeria, which are carried out by groups of heavily-armed radical Islamist Fulani militants,\" she said.\r\nIn November, Democratic Reps. Al Green and Joaquin Castro, both from Texas, introduced a House resolution supporting the peaceful protest movement in Nigeria.\r\n\"The resolution is not enough, but it is something we can do,\" Green told the hearing. He said it meant \"that Black lives matter, no matter where they may be.\"\r\nRobert Destro, an assistant secretary of state, said he hoped for an \"early warning network\" to detect atrocities before they occur.\r\nBut he said one principal difficulty is Nigerian officials have told him it's \"impossible\" that religion is a factor in the killings. \"They need active ground-level intelligence to be able to protect themselves.\"\r\nDestro said of President Muhammadu Buhari's government, \"They're going to have to want to change.\" This article was originally published on Dec. 21, 2020 and can be found online at:\r\nhttps://trentonmonitor.com/Content/Default/World-Nation/Article/Genocide-in-Nigeria-happening-before-our-eyes-N-J-congressman-says-at-hearing/-3/274/24538", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409089", "House, Senate pass of bipartisan COVID relief bill", "2020-12-21", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "The House and Senate are expected to vote tonight on a COVID relief and omnibus legislative package that provides critical COVID relief for unemployed Americans, their families and small businesses struggling under the weight of the impact of COVID, while also funding the government through the end of the fiscal year in September 2021. Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) supports the final COVID relief bill to provide approximately $900 billionin federal assistance to continue to respond to the COVID pandemic and its impact on the economy.   \r\n\r\n\r\n    \r\n        \r\n            \r\n        \r\n    \r\n\r\n This long-overdue legislation has additional funding for COVID vaccine accessibility and distribution, money for schools so they can safely reopen, and another round of $600 direct payments for Americans who have been hit the hardest during this pandemic, said Smith, member of the bipartisan Problem Solvers Caucus which helped spark dialogue for negotiations and push through a final bill. This relief bill also will extend the successful Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) that has kept many small businesses afloat with desperately-needed relief, and will add deductibility for PPP expenses.\r\n Once signed into law, the act: \r\n \r\n    provides direct payments up to $600 per eligible adult and per qualifying child.\r\n    extends two key CARES Act programs about to sunsetthe Pandemic Unemployment Assistance program to help the self-employed and so-called gig economy workers, and the Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation benefit extension programwhich were both extended for 11 weeks, avoiding a financial crunch for millions of Americans. The new timeline will prevent another deadline that would have stopped the programs in March.\r\n    will add $300 to all weekly unemployment benefits.\r\n    allows workers who rely on multiple jobs and have lost income to be eligible for a weekly $100 boost.\r\n    helps schools by providing additional funding so they can safely reopen. Provisions provide elementary, secondary and higher education $82 billion of funds to reopen classrooms and prevent virus transmission.\r\n    has additional funding for vaccine accessibility and distribution.\r\n    continues the eviction moratorium set to expire at year's end through the end of January.\r\n    includes $25 billion for rental assistance for families facing eviction. Eligible renters would be able to receive assistance with their rent and utilities.\r\n    provides $45 billion for the hard-hit transportation sector, including $16 billion to help keep airlines solvent and support their employees and contractors; $14 billion for transit systems; $10 billion for highways, $2 billion for intercity buses, $2 billion for airports and $1 billion for Amtrak. \r\n \r\n Today's bill is the sixth major COVID package Smith has supported in 2020. The CARES Act was the third and the largest phase of the federal response enacted into law. Smith supported Phase I, the Coronavirus Preparedness and Response Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2020which provided $8.3 billion for treatment and prevention measures in NJ. Phase II, the Families First Coronavirus Response Actprovided paid sick leave, family medical leave, free testing, and expanded unemployment benefits among other provisions to help working Americans.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409090", "<span class =\"kicker\">House, Senate pass for Smiths legislation on Belarus</span> Belarus Democracy and Human Rights Act of 2020 to head to White House", "2020-12-21", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Even as the people of Belarus continue their brave struggle against a brutal dictatorship, a bill authored by Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), a senior member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee(HFAC), was expected to pass tonight by both houses of Congress to ramp up pressure on entrenched Belarus President Alyaksandr Lukashenko following his regime's violent crackdown and political repression that came in the wake of his fraudulent August 9 re-election.  \r\n\r\n As prime sponsor of theBelarus Democracy, Human Rights, and Sovereignty Act of 2020, Smith said his law, which passed the House Nov. 18, will put pressure on Europe's last dictatorship to respect the sovereignty of its own citizens.\r\n By passing this bill Congress is recognizing what the struggling, courageous people of Belarus have been fighting since August 9 with their massive rallies: the recent election was clearly fraudulent, and has no credibility in the international community with anyone except Lukashenka himself, and perhaps Russia, said Smith, who authored the bill, H.R. 8438, in September to update and reauthorize his previous legislation enacted in 2004, 2006 and 2011 to advance and promote democracy and human rights in Belarus. \r\n This bipartisan bill renews sanctions on Belarusian Government officials who have obstructed the country's democratic transition, Smith said. It gives much-needed support to the besieged Belarusian media and to the country's important IT sector. Belarusian hackers who have cracked Lukashenko's firewall have been able to broadcast truthful news accounts to the Belarusian people. This bill also commissions several much-needed fact-finding efforts to get an accurate picture of the situation on the ground. The Belarusian people are fighting to preserve the independence and sovereignty of their country despite the ominous threat posed by Russian President Vladimir Putin.\r\n The bipartisan bill, which is included in the legislation before Congress this week, enjoys a strong list of co-sponsors, to include Chairman Eliot L. Engel (D-NY), Ranking Member Michael McCaul (R-TX), and Reps. Marcy Kaptur (R-OH), Adam Kinzinger (R-IL), and William Keating (D-MA).\r\n Since the fraudulent election was staged more than four months ago, Belarusians have organized massive rallies demanding Lukashenka leave power despite Lukasneko's brutal crackdown in which Lukashenka has arrested thousands, tortured hundreds and attempted to shut down the press and internet.\r\n Once enacted, the Smith law would promote democracy, human rights and the rule of law in Belarus, as well as support the aspirations of the Belarusian people to preserve the independence and sovereignty of their country in the face of threats from Russian President Putin.\r\n Smith's pending law will:\r\n reauthorize the 2004 Belarus Democracy Act for the third time;\r\n State that it is U.S. policy to reject the fraudulent August 9, 2020 Belarusian presidential election;\r\n refuse to recognize Lukashenka as the legitimately elected leader of Belarus; \r\n call for a new presidential election in Belarus that complies with OSCE standards; \r\n continue to call for the immediate release of all political prisoners in Belarus, including U.S. citizen Vitali Shkliarov and leading opposition figure Maryia Kalesnikava; \r\n refuse to recognize any incorporation of Belarus into a so-called Union State that is under the control of Russia;\r\n Expand the list of Belarusian authorities who may be subject to U.S. sanctions beyond the country's senior leadership and security services to include those directly responsible for the crackdown on independent media; \r\n strengthen the current human rights sanctions regime on Belarus to include Russian individuals complicit in the political repression in Belarus and the crackdown on independent media;\r\n authorize U.S. assistance to promote democracy, human rights and the rule of law in Belarus and calls on the Administration to reevaluate and increase U.S. assistance to Belarus in light of the current political crisis;\r\n call on the U.S. President to provide the United States Agency for Global Media (including VOA, Radio Free Europe) with a surge capacity for its programs and activities in Belarus;\r\n require a U.S. strategy to promote expanded broadcasting, internet freedom and access to information in Belarus;\r\n call on the United States to continue to coordinate with the European Union, its member states, the United Kingdom and Canada to support the democratic aspirations of the Belarusian people and to deter Russia's attempts to undermine Belarus' sovereignty and independence, and;\r\n require the Secretary of State, in coordination with the Director of National Intelligence, to submit two reports to Congress on Russia's efforts to undermine Belarus' sovereignty and independence, and on the assets owned by Lukashenka.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://vandrew.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-jeff-van-drew-statement-vaccinations", "Congressman Jeff Van Drew Statement on Vaccinations", "2020-12-21", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "House", "NJ", "Jefferson Van Drew", "V000133", "vandrew.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "I believe that seniors, healthcare professionals and frontline workers should receive the vaccination first. I will be receiving my vaccination as soon as the most vulnerable have already received theirs. Let's get back to the way of life that we desire.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://vandrew.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-jeff-van-drew-statement-cyber-attacks-foreign-governments", "Congressman Jeff Van Drew Statement on Cyber Attacks by Foreign Governments", "2020-12-19", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "House", "NJ", "Jefferson Van Drew", "V000133", "vandrew.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON- Today, Congressman Jeff Van Drew released the following statement regarding intelligence that implicates foreign governments in cyber attacks on American government agencies:\n\"This week the United States learned of a foreign cyber espionage operation that targeted America's nuclear infrastructure and federal government. As a member of the House Committee on Homeland Security I take such matters of national security very seriously. I stand with my colleagues in calling for the perpetrators to be held accountable and for the United States to bolster its cybersecurity capabilities.\"\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409074", "<span class =\"kicker\">Communications High sweeps App Challenge</span>Rep. Chris Smith announces winners of 2020 Congressional App Challenge", "2020-12-18", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) today announced the winners of this year's New Jersey Fourth Congressional District Congressional App Challenge (CAC), part of a nationwide competition for middle and high school students to showcase their software app-developing skills and teamwork. The winning app, CollabraCart, was designed by Communications High School students Erin Hardiman of Spring Lake, Melody Lin of Freehold and Jacob Rosegarten of Morganville.\r\n I am pleased to congratulate all the winning students at Communications High School, said Rep. Smith. The first place-winning app, CollabraCart,' is very timely in the COVID era in which we find ourselves. It can match people who are struggling to purchase groceries with individuals who are seeking to donate their time and/or money to help them.\r\n\r\n    \r\n        \r\n            \r\n        \r\n    \r\n\r\n During these unprecedented times when many of our fellow New Jerseyans are struggling to maintain their livelihood and feed their families, it was great to see Melody, Erin and Jacob work together and develop an App that will help others in our community.  \r\n\r\n\r\n At a user's discretion, the service may stay anonymous, and people may opt to connect with another user through a \"Friends\" feature. All money donated would be used for the payment of somebody's groceries.\r\n  \r\nTimed to coincide with Computer Science Education Week (CSEdWeek), December 7-13, 2020, Smith said this year's contest drew entries from Monmouth and Ocean Counties.\r\n Twenty-nine students participated in teams and as individuals to design nine apps. Communications High School, a Monmouth County Vocational School District career academy located in Wall Township, swept all three top spots.\r\n The second-place app is Green Garden, designed by Brigid McCarthy of Manasquan, Abi Cohen of Marlboro, Rina Peshori of Holmdel, who all worked to aid the conservation of at-risk insect species through technology and engagement of an audience with a unique potential to create change. The app serves a dual purpose of education and entertainment. Users take care of and grow their own virtual garden while learning how these efforts, when applied to real life, have the potential to help insect populations.    \r\n\r\n\r\n    \r\n        \r\n            \r\n        \r\n    \r\n\r\nThird-place finisher, Roomiez, was designed by Nate Riehl of Manasquan, Ava Turner of Middletown, and Jake Polvino of Tinton Falls. Roomiez is an app that helps college students find roommates. The app prompts a user seeking a compatible roommate with multiple choice questions and the ability to select interest tags in various categories. The app saves the answers from each user and will only display other users with similar interests, sorting by the closest match first.\r\nABOUT THE JUDGESRep. Smith expressed appreciation and commendedhis panel of expert judges who scored the apps saying, Thank you to the highly specialized tech-savvy judges for their time and commitment to this competition. It wouldn't be possible without them.\r\n The three-member panel of high-tech professionals from the district who volunteered as judges were: Debbie Smith (no relation to the Congressman) of Jackson, the Director of Administration/Director of Information Technology for the Office of the Standing Chapter 13 Trustee; Vincent DeTommaso of Holmdel, an app designer for Viacom, and; Stadi Sinclair, Managing Member of Code Ninjas in Red Bank.\r\n Said Judge Sinclair of CollabraCart: The technical demo showing the app functionality was very clear. Beyond the current crisis this app can be used in communities worldwide to help those who are struggling.\r\n\r\n    \r\n        \r\n            \r\n        \r\n    \r\n\r\nABOUT THE CONGRESSIONAL APP CHALLENGEThis is Rep. Smith's fifth year participating in the Congressional App Challenge, which Congress created in 2014 to encourage students to work with their peers to develop computer coding and software application skills. The challenge was created to foster STEM skills (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) among young students and emphasize their importance for the future especially in areas of the economy like cybersecurity, intellectual property, and the app economy.\r\n The highest scoring app from each Congressional District is eligible to be displayed in the US Capitol Building and featured on the House of Representatives' website, www.house.gov.Due to COVID-19, this year the wi8nning students will be invited to a virtual #HouseOfCode Festival Capitol Hill Reception in the spring, and the winning app receives $75 of credit from Southwest Airlines. The contest is sponsored nationally by the Internet Education Foundation, and 303 members of Congress made the Challenge available in their districts this year. \r\n This year's competition was the largest yet, with more students eligible to participate than ever before. The 303 participating Members of Congress represent over two-thirds of Americans, providing inspiration to students in all corners of the nation. The over 6,000 students registered for this year's competition represent the second largest total in the program's history. \r\nStudents are permitted to create an app on any topic using any coding language or platform. This encourages students to harness creativity to address issues in their own communities. This year, over half of the CAC entries directly or indirectly address issues caused by COVID-19. Over 91 percent of students report that they intend to continue coding and 95 percent say they're more likely to pursue a career in STEM after participating in the CAC. \r\nMiddle and high school students from Smith's Fourth Congressional District interested in participating in next year's contest may contact Smith's Freehold office at 732-780-3035 and visit www.congressionalappchallenge.us\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409088", "<span class =\"kicker\">Smith chairs Lantos Commission hearing after latest killings, kidnappings:</span>State Dept., humanitarian groups testify on killings in Nigeria, alleged acts by Islamist radicals", "2020-12-17", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "The brutal atrocities and continuing threats to Nigerian peace and stabilityespecially to Christians under seemingly relentless attacks by radical Islamists in Nigeriawere at the core of testimony by U.S. State Department officials and human rights organizations at a hearing today, Conflict and Killings in Nigeria's Middle Belt, held by Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), Co-Chairman of the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission.\r\n\r\n Our Middle Belt region has truly become a vale of tears, a region where mass burials are very common. It appears as though what is happening here is part of a grand conspiracy. Our national government has not shown convincing signs of real commitment to ending the menace, said Bishop William A. Avenya of the Nigerian Roman Catholic Diocese of Gboko in his testimony. The mass slaughter of Christians in Nigeria's Middle Belt, by every standard, meets the criteria for a calculated genocide from the definition of the Genocide Convention as acts committed with intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial or religious group as well as the available facts. This has inflicted deep mental, psychological, physical and economic injuries to the affected families and communities.\r\n Smith, Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Africa Subcommittee, has chaired seven previous hearings on human rights violations in Nigeria, the most populated country in Africa.\r\n The largest, dominant driver of conflict in the Middle Belt region is committed by Fulani extremists, who appear driven in large part by ethno-religious chauvinism, against mostly Christian farmers  though I do note that elsewhere Shia Muslims are also victims, and that intra-Sunni conflicts also exist within the Muslim community as well, said Smith. The United States and the international community must do more to mitigate the violence because the dire situation on the ground warrants it and because the people of Nigeria deserve to live in peace and freedom with their fundamental human rights guaranteed and because Nigeria is the largest country in Africa and what happens there has an outsized impact in West Africa and in Africa as a whole. Click here to read Smith's opening remarks.  \r\n\r\n  Days ago, the kidnapping of an estimated 330 students from the Government Science Secondary School in Kankara recalled other notorious attacks by radical Islamists, such as the April 2014 attack, when more than 270 schoolgirls were abducted from their dormitory in Chibok. About 100 of the girls are still missing. Last month, more than three dozen peaceful demonstrators were killed by government police forces in Lagos, as reported by the media. Over the past six years, Jihadist Fulani Militant Herdsmen reportedly have accounted for 9,000 Christian deaths or 1,500 per year. Breaking news accounts of a reported release of the 330 students were greeted with hope at the hearing.\r\n Testifying from the U.S. State Department today were lead witness Sam Brownback, Ambassador at Large for International Religious Freedom and the former Governor, U.S. Senator and U.S. Representative of Kansas, along with Morse Tan, Ambassador at Large for Global Criminal Justice, and Robert Destro, Assistant Secretary of State for Democracy, Human Rights and Labor.\r\nViolence has unfolded across rural Nigeria, said Ambassador Brownback. We strongly condemn violence in Nigeria aimed at communities because of their faith  whether those communities are Muslim or Christian, including through attacks targeting religious gatherings. To end these cycles of violence, the Nigerian government must hold to account individuals who perpetrate such unlawful violence and human rights abuses. Failure to do contributes to an environment of escalation and dangerous volatility. Click here to read Ambassador Brownback's testimony.\r\n Also testifying and/or submitting testimony were Nina Shea,Director,Hudson Institute Center for Religious Freedom; Ann Buwalda,Executive Director,Jubilee Campaign USA; H.E. William Avenya,Bishop of Gboko, Nigeria; Jane Adolphe,Ave Maria School of Law; Udo Jude Ilo,Nigeria Country Officer,Open Society Initiative for West Africa and; Mike Jobbins,Vice President, Global Affairs and Partnerships,Search for Common Ground.\r\nClick here to watch the hearing and witnesses' testimonies.\r\n Baroness Catherine Cox, CEO of Humanitarian Aid Relief Trust, told the commission she was encouraged that, earlier this week, the International Criminal Court called for an inquiry into war crimes and crimes against humanity, and also that the U.S. State Department finally designated Nigeria as Country of Particular Concern under the International Religious Freedom Act. I have had the painful privilege of visiting some of the worst affected areas and have heard directly from survivors of attacks. They have shared  with immense bravery and with tears  personal tragedies of mass slaughter, torture, amputations, rape, forced displacement and destruction of homes, churches and farmland.\r\n Annigje J. Buwalda, Executive Director of Jubilee Campaign USA, said: Jubilee Campaign publicly calls on the Federal Republic of Nigeria to develop a comprehensive plan and/or policy to address and eradicate the violence against Nigerian Christians at the hands of Islamic jihadist members of Boko Haram and Fulani militants. Her organization also called on the Nigerian government to publicly condemn and fully investigate all acts of violence against religious communities, and establish a timely, accurate, and up to date reporting system on incidences of violent attacks.\r\n Smith, who has held numerous hearings on Nigerian human rights issues, decided to hold the hearing following the deadly shooting of peaceful protestors in Lagos, Nigeria, on October 20, just the latest in a series of killings and violence in Nigeria under President Muhammadu Buhari's government. The mass killings and atrocities committed by Fulani extremists in Nigeria's Middle Belt region by his Fulani kinsmen have prompted calls to put an end to the killing and depredations aimed mostly at Christian farmers. Smith also previously denounced Buhari's assault upon the rule of law, including his dismissal of Nigeria's chief justice in early 2019 in advance of national elections, and his replacement with a Buhari ally.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://vandrew.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-jeff-van-drew-announces-congressional-app-challenge-winner", "Congressman Jeff Van Drew Announces Congressional App Challenge Winner", "2020-12-17", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "House", "NJ", "Jefferson Van Drew", "V000133", "vandrew.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON- Today, Congressman Jeff Van Drew announced the winner of the Congressional App Challenge for the 2nd District of New Jersey. The App Challenge asks local middle and high school students to submit a developed application (app). The apps are judged based on creativity, usefulness, and technical capability of the coding.\nThis year's winner is COVID Compass, developed by Justin Tresvalles and Raphaelle Hoang, which helps people find the safest way to limit COVID-19 exposure when seeking healthcare. The app allows users to look up their local hospitals and receive a brief overview on how many COVID-19 cases a specific hospital has treated within the past month. Additionally, the app provides information on bed availability and allows users to report COVID-19 cases.\nI am proud of the work that went into the development of this application, said Rep. Van Drew. This is a great tool that can help connect people to healthcare and keep our community safer. Congratulations Justin and Raphaelle on receiving this prestigious award; we look forward to big things from you in the future.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409076", "Smith, Suozzi, Cotton unveil bill to combat forced organ harvesting", "2020-12-16", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "U.S. Representatives Chris Smith (R-NJ) and Tom Suozzi (D-NY), and U.S. Senator Tom Cotton (R-AK), announced bipartisan legislation in the House and Senate today called the Stop ForcedOrganHarvesting Act (H.R. 8972, S.5016), intended to prevent the unethical and criminal harvestingorgans from minority groups and other victims.\r\n Organ harvesting is a barbaric, inhumane and egregious act of global significance as transnational human trafficking gangs, terrorist organizations, profiteers and even governmentsChina's Communist regime in particular  kill innocent people and sell their organs for profit, said Congressman Smith, sponsor and lead Republican for the House bill who has fought organ harvesting for more than 20 years, including chairing a June 2016 hearing on the cruel practice in China. A global problem requires a global response. Under our bill, organ harvesters and traffickers, who often prey on vulnerable populations like political prisoners or minorities, will be identified and exposed by the State Department with the goal of punishing perpetrators and promoting effective sanctions and restrictions on travel.The bill will help shed more light on these horrific activities, enable the naming of names of the vicious perpetrators and ultimately help put an end this gruesome human rights abuse.  \r\n\r\n For years, the Chinese Communist Party has continued to take advantage of prisoners, members of ethnic minority, and religious groups. Today, we are still witnessing them take further advantage of these groups through organ harvesting,\" said Congressman Suozzi, lead Democrat for the House bill. \"Members of the Chinese Communist Party must be held accountable for these unspeakable actions. Organ harvesting has no place in our world.\"  \r\n\r\n There is growing evidence that the Chinese Communist Party has and continues to harvestorgans from prisoners and members of Chinese religious and minority groups. This bill will identify and punish CCP members involved in forcedorganharvesting. It's past time to hold Beijing accountable for these heinous acts,said Senator Cotton, the bill's sponsor in the Senate.  \r\n\r\n The bill also defines the trafficking in persons for purposes of the removal of organs'' as the recruitment, transportation, transfer, harboring, or receipt of a person for the purpose of removing one or more of such person's organs, by means of coercion; abduction; deception; fraud; abuse of power or a position of vulnerability; or transfer of payments or benefits to achieve the consent of a person having control over a person.  \r\n\r\n The Stop ForcedOrganHarvesting Act:\r\n \r\n    Authorizes the U.S. government to deny or revoke passports for illegalorganpurchasers.\r\n    Mandates annual reporting on forcedorganharvesting in foreign countries. This State Department reporting would identify foreign officials and entities responsible for forcedorganharvesting.\r\n    Mandates an annual report on U.S. institutions that trainorgantransplant surgeons affiliated with foreign entities involved in forcedorganharvesting.\r\n    Prohibits the export oforgantransplant surgery devices to entities responsible for forcedorganharvesting.\r\n    Sanctions foreign officials and entities that engage in or otherwise support forcedorganharvesting.\r\n \r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409077", "<span class =\"kicker\">Smith to co-chair Lantos Human Rights Commission Hearing Dec. 17:</span>'Conflict and Killings in Nigerias Middle Belt'", "2020-12-16", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "OnThursday, December 17 from14 p.m., Congressman Chris Smith will co-chair a hearing of the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission on the deteriorating human rights situation in Nigeria's Middle Belt, including its religious dimensions, and proposed responses.\r\nThe underlying causes of the conflict in Nigeria's Middle Belt are complex and varied. They include competition for access to land and other resources between pastoralists and farmers exacerbated by drought, desertification, and climate change. In a part of the country where farmers are mainly Christian and pastoralists are mainly Muslim and ethnic Fulani, deadly confrontations have sharpened ethnic, regional and religious polarization. Precise statistics are unavailable and fatality counts are contested, but one analysis estimated that farmer-pastoralist conflicts killed 2,000 Nigerians annually between 2011 and 2016. Some have described attacks by pastoralists as a persecution of Christians, amounting to an attempted or unfolding genocide. Some Muslim leaders, for their part, have described attacks on Fulani as part of an effort to purge Nigeria's Muslim community. The Nigerian state has failed to provide protection or ensure accountability for any of the victims. \r\nIn its newly released annual Statistical Risk Assessment (SRA), the Holocaust Memorial Museum's Simon-Skjodt Center for the Prevention of Genocide calculated that Nigeria as a whole faces a 7.3% risk of experiencing a new mass killing by the end of 2021, the 6th highest in the world. In last year's SRA, Nigeria was ranked 17th with a 5% risk. For purposes of the report, a mass killing occurs when the deliberate actions of armed groups result in the deaths of at least 1,000 noncombatant civilians targeted as part of a specific group over a period of one year or less. The Center did not find evidence that groups perpetrating violence in north-central Nigeria are coordinating in a campaign against a particular group of civilians. Also this month, the State Department designated Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern for violations of religious freedom, opening the country up to possible economic sanctions. \r\nWitnesses will examine Nigeria's Middle Belt and pastoralist-farmer conflicts, current conflict dynamics, historical background, humanitarian aspects, internal displacement and impunity, and explore recommendations for U.S. and international responses.\r\nPanel 1\r\n \r\n    Sam Brownback, Ambassador at Large for International Religious Freedom\r\n    Morse Tan, Ambassador at Large for Global Criminal Justice\r\n    Robert Destro, Assistant Secretary of State for Democracy, Human Rights and Labor\r\n \r\n\r\nPanel 2\r\n \r\n    Nina Shea,Director,Hudson Institute Center for Religious Freedom\r\n    Ann Buwalda,Executive Director,Jubilee Campaign USA\r\n    H.E. William Avenya,Bishop of Gboko, Nigeria\r\n    Jane Adolphe,Ave Maria School of Law\r\n    Udo Jude Ilo,Nigeria Country Officer,Open Society Initiative for West Africa\r\n    Mike Jobbins,Vice President, Global Affairs and Partnerships,Search for Common Ground\r\n \r\nThis is a hybrid hearing. Pursuant to H. Res. 965, Members of Congress and witnesses who wish to participate remotely may do so via Cisco WebEx. Members of the public and the media may view the hearing by live webcast on the Commission website. The hearing will also be available for viewing on the House Digital Channel service. For any questions, please contact Piero Tozzi at 202-225-3765 (for Rep. Smith) or Kimberly Stanton at 202-805-6308 (for Rep. McGovern).", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409073", "<span class =\"kicker\">Asbury Park Press article</span>'Bill set to boost Joint Base passes by a wide margin'", "2020-12-15", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "George WoolstonBurlington County Times USA TODAY NETWORK -\r\nThe $732 billion bill that sets spending and policy for the U.S. military has passed the U.S. House of Representatives Tuesday with bipartisan support.\r\nThe National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) received bipartisan support by passing 335-78, with a total of 140 Republicans and 195 Democrats backing the bill, the Associated Press reported.\r\nSouth Jersey lawmakers consider several provisions in the bill big wins for Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst.\r\nAmong those wins include a 3% pay raise for all military personnel, slowing down of the retirement of KC-10 tankers jets over the next three years to ensure their replacement, the KC-46 tanker jets, arrive 100% ready to go at the end of 2021, and authorizing two constructions projects on the base.\r\nWe live in an uncertain world with persistent, credible threats to our nation and our democracy, so it is more important than ever that we support our men and women in uniform and ensure the readiness and modernization of our nation's armed forces while spending our valuable resources wisely, U.S. Rep. Donald Norcross said in a statement following the bill's passing.\r\nNorcross, D-1 of Camden, serves as the chair of the tactical air and land forces (TAL) subcommittee in the House Armed Services Committee.\r\nNorcross, along with fellow New Jersey lawmakers U.S. Rep. Andy Kim, D-3 of Mooreston, U.S. Rep. Mikie Sherill,D-11 of Montclair, and U.S. Rep. Chris Smith, R-4 of Hamilton, all worked to ensure the security of the Joint Base's future.\r\nThe bill authorizes $37 million total for construction projects on the base  $22 million for a Munitions Storage Area and $15 million for a National Guard Readiness Center. In addition to slowing down the KC-10 tankers and ensuring the new KC-46 tankers arrival, the bill also restricts the premature retirement of KC-135 Stratotankers operated by the New Jersey National Guard.\r\nThe missions of the active duty 305th Air Mobility Wing and its sister Air Force Reserve 514th Air Mobility Wing, as well as the NJ Air National Guard's 108 Air Refueling Wing, have never been more important, Smith said in a statement.\r\nThe Senate passed the measure by a 84-13 margin on Friday.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409070", "<span class =\"kicker\">Smith Op-Ed in Washington Times</span>'Reflecting on the Universal Declaration of Human Rights'", "2020-12-11", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Dec. 10, 1948, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), rightfully heralded as a human rights landmark. To understand how the UDHR came about and what made it necessary, however, we need to first recall what preceded it.\r\nThe UDHR was born of the horrors of the Holocaust and World War II, as well as the imperfect attempt to achieve some sort of justice at the Nuremberg and Tokyo War Crimes trials. Recall, the defendants at Nuremberg and Tokyo had broken no positive laws  indeed, they controlled the power of the state, which dictated the laws.\r\nTo dispense a modicum of justice to right the obvious injustice that had been done to millions of victims, Robert Jackson  a prosecutor at Nuremberg who took a leave of absence from his duties as a sitting associate justice of the U.S. Supreme Court  referenced the need to apply a natural law that binds each man to refrain from acts so inherently wrong and injurious to others that he must know that they will be treated as criminal.  \r\n\r\n\r\nIllustration on the U.N. Human Rights Council by Linas Garsys/The Washington Times\r\n  \r\nIt is this notion of a law above whatever the positive law may be at a particular moment in time which likewise animates the UDHR. There are some rights which are so fundamental, that the state may never take them away, regardless of the power it may wield at any moment.\r\nWe see this notion expressed, for example, in Article 26 of the UDHR, which states that Parents have a prior right to choose the kind of education that shall be given to their children. This is a right that is prior to the state  in other words, it is grounded in nature, and cannot be taken away by the state.\r\nThese are the rights which our Declaration of Independence referred to as unalienable, having been endowed upon us by our Creator. Foremost among these rights is of course the right to life, without which no other rights are possible.\r\nThis notion of Natural Law is certainly compatible with a Judeo-Christian tradition, one that directly inspired framers of the UDHR such as the Catholic Jacques Maritain, the Orthodox Charles Malik or the Jewish Rene Cassin.\r\nBut it is deeper and broader than that. It is not just Jeremiah and St. Paul who spoke about a law written in the heart, but Cicero and Confucius as well.\r\nAs Emilie Kao, director of the Richard and Helen DeVos Center for Religion &amp; Civil Society at the Heritage Foundation testified before Congress at a hearing Dec. 9, the UDHR drew from a diverse array of sources, including Confucianism, Islam, Judaism, Hinduism and Christianity. Indeed, along with Malik, Maritain and Cassin, included among its drafters was Peng-chun Chang, who drew from the Chinese philosophical tradition and contributed a Confucian Natural Law perspective  the tao that is written in the heart.\r\nThus, I categorically reject any notion that when we hold the government of the People's Republic of China to account for its cruelty, abuses and violations of human rights norms, we are seeking to impose Western standards upon it.\r\nFar from it  it is a universal norm, and one very much consonant with a Chinese notion of a tao, or a law, which is above any positive law arbitrarily imposed by the state. The actions of Xi Jinping and the Chinese Communist Party must be judged according to this law, and their mandate to govern  the Mandate of Heaven which the Confucians appealed to  depends on whether their actions conform with this norm. If they fall short, they are to be held to account.\r\nThus, when I speak of the barbarism of harvesting organs from Falun Gong practitioners or the cruelty of forced abortion and it deleterious impact on both women and children, or the incarceration of millions of Muslim Uighurs in concentration camps, or mass jailing of Hong Kong democracy activists including the brave Joshua Wong  unjustly jailed for the fourth time  or Xi Jinping's megalomaniacal efforts to rewrite the Bible to follow the dictates of the Communist Party, I and others are only seeking to hold the Chinese dictatorship to the noblest standards from within the Chinese tradition.\r\nFinally, as we contemplate that profound document that is the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, I ask that we also reflect on what is the source of the rights of which we speak. Rights emphatically do not come from the state, for, as we saw in the horrors of World War II and the Holocaust or the Armenian genocide, the state which is the sole grantor of rights can take them away, and in so doing, commit grave offenses against human dignity.\r\nRather, the source must be transcendent, objective, immutable.\r\n Chris Smith is a Republican U.S. representative from New Jersey\r\n  \r\nThis story was published in the Dec. 11, 2020 print edition of the Washington Times, and can be found at:", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409071", "Rep. Chris Smith voices serious concern over South Koreas growing disregard of fundamental civil liberties, acquiescence to Communist North", "2020-12-11", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Responding to reports that South Korea's parliament was on the verge of passing legislation that would criminalize the sending of leaflets, Bibles and money across the border to the Communist North, Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), co-chair of the bipartisan Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission, made the following statement.\r\n I am troubled that legislators in an ostensibly vibrant democracy would contemplate criminalizing conduct aimed at promoting democracy and providing spiritual and humanitarian succor to people suffering under one of the cruelest communist dictatorships in the world. Yet a legislative majority of Korea's Democratic Party members appear poised to do so, in apparent violation of South Korea's constitution and the nation's obligations under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights.(ICCPR).\r\n Smith further explained, Article 19 of the ICCPR provides that Everyone shall have the right to freedom of expression; this right shall include freedom to seek, receive and impart information and ideas of all kinds, regardless of frontiers, either orally, in writing or in print, in the form of art, or through any other media of his choice.' Why then are parliamentary allies of President Moon Jae-in disregarding their obligations to protect fundamental civil and political rights? \r\n The people of North Korea are suffering under a brutal regime. Humanitarian and religious non-governmental organizations launch balloons containing Bibles, videos and information denied people living in the North, giving them hope and objective information instead of despair and communist propaganda. Why in the world would legislators in the free South want to not only stop that, but also put people in jail for simply sharing information? asked Smith, who has held numerous human rights hearings focused on North Korea.  \r\n\r\n Further, I have serious concerns over the trajectory in South Korea under President Moon Jae-in. We have seen the government on the local and national level use the response to COVID as a pretext to curtail religious worship and free speech, directed at critics of the President. We see undue acquiescence not only to the communist Democratic People's Republic of Koreaas evidenced by this inane legislation criminalizing humanitarian outreach to North Koreabut also a diplomatic tilt towards communist China.\r\n While I would hope that members of Korea's Democratic Party would see how damaging this proposed legislation is to democratic principles and human rights, and thus reverse course, in the event that they pass such a law, I call upon our State Department to critically reevaluate the Republic of Korea's commitment to democratic values in its annual human rights report, as well as in its report on international religious freedom. It may very well be that we will see South Korea put on a watch list, which would be a very sad development indeed.\r\n Smith further declared that if the legislation passed, he intended to convene a hearing to examine the Korean government's failure to uphold civil and political rights.\r\n No government is above scrutiny, not even that of a long-time ally, Smith said. Given the great accomplishments of the people of South Korea, I truly hope this legislative proposal is an aberration, and that cooler heads will realize that this bill is not just ill-conceived, but frightening in its implications for democracy and liberty.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409069", "<span class=\"kicker\">News12 NJ story; Smith backs key bill for experimental drugs</span>'New Jersey man fights for access to experimental ALS drug'", "2020-12-10", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "News12 NJ story; Smith backs key bill for experimental drugs'New Jersey man fights for access to experimental ALS drug' \r\n   \r\n    \r\n       \r\n      \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      f \r\n      t \r\n      #\r\n      e\r\n      \r\n      \r\n    \r\n    \r\n      \r\n        Washington,\r\n        Dec 10, 2020\r\n      \r\n       \r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n    \r\n    \r\n  \r\n\r\n  \r\n      \r\n    \r\n\r\n  \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      \r\n      \r\n      By News12 Staff - With the world potentially days away from having a COVID-19 vaccine, research continues to help treat other life-threatening diseases like Lou Gehrig's disease.\r\nForked River resident Josh Smith, 31, was an athlete and football coach who ran a construction business with his father. But his world was turned upside-down when he was diagnosed with ALS in March of 2019.\r\nWhen I first got diagnosed, I mean honestly, I felt like I died on that dayYou lose every dream that you had. It's kind of out the window, Smith says.\r\nWith an average lifespan of two to five years after diagnosis, Smith says that he put his dreams aside to fight the illness. His doctors suggested that he search for an experimental treatment since he was young and still strong.  \r\n\r\n  \r\nThat experimental treatment is a drug known as NurOwn  a phase three treatment. Smith's family says that the treatment appeared to slow the progression of the disease. However, the trial treatment is only temporary. He no longer has access to the drug.  \r\n\r\n  \r\nI put my body through this for the sake of data. Now give me the drug for the sake of me, now, Smith says.  \r\n\r\nSmith and other ALS patient advocates are pushing for House Bill 8662, which would increase the opportunity for patients to access investigational therapies and $100 million each dedicated to research and development to find a treatment and cure. District 4 U.S Rep. Christopher Smith says he co-sponsored the bill last week.  \r\n\r\n  \r\n\"The sooner we get that and other kinds of therapeutics out to people  and we need to fast-track it like we're doing with COVID, like the vaccine which is on a fast track. It can be done. This bill will help facilitate all of that, Rep. Smith says.\r\nMeanwhile, Josh Smith says that he will keep fighting.  \r\n\r\n  \r\nMy dad told me when I was a kid just never give up. You got to be in the fight to win the fight, so here I am in the fight, he says.  \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n    \r\n        \r\n            \r\n        \r\n    \r\n\r\n  \r\nBill 8662 is known as the Accelerating Access to Critical Therapies for ALS Act. It was introduced to the House on Oct. 23 and was referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce. But so far, the committee has not taken any action to release the bill for a vote.PHOTO GRAPHIC:At left, Josh Smith with his parents on the right; At right, Rep. Smith (no relation). This story was aired on Dec. 7-8 and was published online at:\r\nhttps://newjersey.news12.com/new-jersey-man-fights-for-access-to-experimental-als-drug\r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      f \r\n      t \r\n      #\r\n      e", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409068", "<span class =\"kicker\">Patch news article</span>'Rep. Smith's Outdoor Therapy For Veterans Bill Signed Into Law'", "2020-12-09", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Legislation authored by this area's Congressman, Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), to help veterans heal through outdoor recreational therapy, has now been signed into law by President Trump.\r\n\r\n\r\nSmith's bipartisanAccelerating Veterans Recovery Outdoors Act, which was endorsed by more than 120 veteran service organizations, outdoor recreation groups and conservation organizations, will provide increased access to federal lands for the purposes of veterans' medical recovery therapy.\r\nSmith's bill  cosponsored by 136 Republican and Democratic lawmakers  was included in a package of veterans' legislation, The Veterans' COMPACT Act (H.R. 8247), which passed unanimously in the House of Representatives in September and was passed unanimously by the Senate in late November.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nPresident Trump signed the legislation over the past weekend.  \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nSmith recounted how one combat wounded veteran who served in Iraq was suffering severe depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder responded to outdoor therapy. He had made three visits to the VA psychiatric wards and a substance abuse rehab. But it was a backpacking trip led by the Sierra Club that changed his perspective.\r\n\r\nSmith quoted the vet's own words: \"When the depression, anxiety and everything else that comes with PTSD creeps back into my life, I know just what to do: Strap on a pack and get outside.\"\r\n\r\nAccording to the Department of Veterans Affairs, between 11 and 20 percent of veterans who served in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, 12 percent of those who served in Desert Storm have PTSD in a given year, and 30 percent of those who served in Vietnam, will have had PTSD in their lifetime.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n    \r\n        \r\n            Research has shown that outdoor recreation can be an effective form of treatment, rehabilitation and \r\n            healing for veterans, said Congressman Chris Smith.(Shutterstock)\r\n        \r\n    \r\n\r\n\"Research has shown that outdoor recreation can be an effective form of treatment, rehabilitation and healing for veterans,\" said Congressman Smith, who has twice served as chair of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee. \"While many nonprofit organizations, veteran service organizations and private companies have used the outdoors to help heroes heal, providing greater coordination among key federal agencies will open new opportunities for veterans on public lands and other outdoor spaces.\"\r\n\r\nThe new law will require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish an interagency task force on the use of public lands to provide medical treatment and therapy to veterans through outdoor recreation. After undertaking a comprehensive analysis, the task force will submit recommendations to Congress, within one year, on how to eliminate barriers and provide more public outdoor space for use by American veterans.This article was published on Dec. 9, 2020 and can be found online at:\r\nhttps://patch.com/new-jersey/middletown-nj/rep-smith-s-outdoor-therapy-veterans-bill-signed-law", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409066", "<span class =\"kicker\">House passes 2021 defense bill</span>Smith: Defense bill helps service members, NJ military missions, $37M for JB-MDL", "2020-12-08", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "The House passed and Congressman Chris Smith (NJ-04) voted for the 2021 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) today, new legislation that will protect the airlift and air refueling missions at America's only tri-service installation, Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst (JB-MDL), and brings $37 million in construction jobs that will support construction work for the local economy.\r\n The bill requires the Secretary of the Air Force to maintain a minimum of 50 KC10 Extender tankersmany of which are based at JB-MDL here in New Jerseythrough fiscal year 2021, 38 Extenders through FY2022 and 26 through 2023, Smith said. This timetable should allow the critical air mobility mission at JB-MDL to continue without major disruptions as the Joint Base receives the new Boeing KC-46 tankers in the years ahead. We should see the first of 24 new aircraft in late 2021.\r\n The NDAA also restricts the premature retirement of KC-135 Stratotankerssuch as operated by the New Jersey National Guardfrom retiring. The missions of the active duty 305th Air Mobility Wing and its sister Air Force Reserve 514th Air Mobility Wing, as well as the NJ Air National Guard's 108th Air Refueling Wing, have never been more important, Smith said.  \r\n\r\n   Smith noted the bill authorizes construction of two key military projects at JB-MDL located in part in his congressional district:  \r\n\r\n $22 million for the Air Force for a much-needed Munitions Storage Area \r\n $15 million for the New Jersey National Guard to build a National Guard Readiness Center to help with deployments of Guard members from the base.\r\n The bill also addresses key military challenges including suicide prevention in the ranks and sexual assault and harassment and it improves information sharing on human trafficking activities to counter this heinous crime. The bill also provides 3 percent raises for all military personnel and hazard duty pay for certain deployments and combat.  \r\n\r\nThe 2021 NDAA also  \r\n\r\n initiates mental healthcare reforms for service-members, family members and retirees and seeks to improve the effectiveness of DoD's suicide prevention programs. \r\n addresses sexual assault and harassment in the military with reforms designed to improve reporting, improve and protect the rights of victims, and provide for more effective responses for sex-related offenses. \r\n authorizes improvements to Military Family Housing with long overdue upgrades to identification and remediation of severe environmental hazards, and support for families displaced for mold and other hazards.\r\n provides reforms for military families, including childcare shortages, reforms to programs that support military families with children with special needs.\r\n ensures service members have the diagnostic equipment, testing capabilities and PPE they need, along with providing medical surge capacity, and health benefits to members of the National Guard that supported the COVID-19 response.\r\n improves U.S. coordination and information-sharing to combat international human trafficking and reauthorizes a stronger, survivor-led U.S. Advisory Council on Human Trafficking. \r\n strengthens tools to combat money laundering and the financing of terrorist programs.\r\n The author of the recently House-passed Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act and Ranking Republican on the U.S. Congressional-Executive Commission on China also highlighted key NDAA provisions that protect the U.S. from Chinese military and cyber threats and U.S. interests in promoting and protecting democracy around the world. \r\n   Specifically, the bill expands the prohibition on DoD acquiring certain sensitive materials from China, or certain printed circuit boards from China, Smith said. It also requires a report on the vulnerabilities to the medicine supply chain of the United States from foreign nations like China, and a Presidential assessment on how to deter Chinese industrial espionage and large-scale cyber theft of intellectual property and personal information. The NDAA also requires public reporting of Chinese military companies operating in the United States and for that list to be published on the Federal Register.  \r\n\r\n    On human rights issues, democracy and the rule of law, President Xi is in a race to the bottom with North Korea, said Smith, noting thatfor over 30 years, I have pushed back on the fantasy notion that trade with Chinain reality, a gutting of American manufacturing and a wholesale transfer of intellectual propertywould somehow improve China's behavior. It just didn't happen.  \r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409065", "<span class =\"kicker\">Smiths 15th veterans bill becomes lawVFW, Sierra Club praised bill</span>'President Trump signs Smiths outdoor therapy vets legislation into law'", "2020-12-07", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Legislation authored by Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) to help veterans heal through outdoor recreational therapy has been signed into law by President Trump. \r\n Smith's bipartisan Accelerating Veterans Recovery Outdoors Act (H.R. 2435), which was endorsed by more than 120 veteran service organizations, outdoor recreation groups and conservation organizations, will provide increased access to federal lands for the purposes of veterans' medical recovery therapy.Smith's billcosponsored by 136 bipartisan lawmakerswas included in a package of veterans' legislation, The Veterans' COMPACT Act (H.R. 8247), which passed unanimously in the House of Representatives in September and was passed unanimously by the Senate last month. Trump signed the legislation over the weekend.  \r\n\r\n Research has shown that outdoor recreation can be an effective form of treatment, rehabilitation and healing for veterans, said Smith, author of the Veterans Health Programs Improvement Act (P.L. 108-422), and 13 other veterans laws. While many nonprofit organizations, veteran service organizations and private companies have used the outdoors to help heroes heal, providing greater coordination among key federal agencies will open new opportunities for veterans on public lands and other outdoor spaces, said Smith, who has twice served as chair of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee.  \r\n\r\n The new law will require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish an interagency task force on the use of public lands to provide medical treatment and therapy to veterans through outdoor recreation. After undertaking a comprehensive analysis, the task force will submit recommendations to Congress, within one year, on how to eliminate barriers and provide more public outdoor space for use by our veterans. Click here to watch Chris Smith's remarks on the House Floor on Sept. 23.  \r\n\r\n Upon House passage, many respected veterans and environmental groups praised the bill including New Jersey VFW State Legislative Director William F. Thomson, who said, Congratulations to Chris Smith on another important piece of veteran legislation.  \r\n\r\n Jeff Tittel, Director of the New Jersey Sierra Club, said, Connecting with nature and being in the wilderness is a powerful part of healing, and the Accelerating Veterans Recovery Outdoors Act will help veterans access that power, and Rob Vessels, campaign manager of Sierra Club Military Outdoors, said Smith's bill would help in eliminating those barriers to access, so veterans can heal on the lands they swore an oath to protect.  \r\n\r\n According to the Department of Veterans Affairs' National Center for PTSD, between 11 and 20 percent of veterans who served in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, 12 percent of those who served in Desert Storm have PTSD in a given year, and 30 percent of those who served in Vietnam, will have had PTSD in their lifetime.  \r\n\r\n During House debate, Smith recounted how one combat wounded veteran who served in Iraq was suffering severe depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder responded to outdoor therapy. He had made three visits to the VA psychiatric wards and a substance abuse rehab. But it was a backpacking trip led by the Sierra Club that changed his perspective. Smith quoted the vet's own words: when the depression, anxiety, and everything else that comes with PTSD creeps back into my life, I know just what to do: Strap on a pack and get outside.''  \r\n\r\n Smith's other veterans bills signed into law:\r\n H.R.4511 - Gold Star Families Voices Act\r\n HR 4175 - Veterans' Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act\r\n HR 2297 - Veterans Benefits Act \r\n HR 1683 Veterans' Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act \r\n HR 100 Servicemembers Civil Relief Act\r\n HR 4085 Veterans' Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act \r\n HR 3838 - To amend the charter of the Veterans of Foreign Wars \r\n HR 3447 - Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Programs Enhancement Act\r\n HR 3253 - Department of Veterans Affairs Emergency Preparedness Act \r\n HR 2716 - Homeless Veterans Comprehensive Assistance Act\r\n HR 2540 - Veterans' Compensation Rate Amendments\r\n HR 1291 - Veterans Education and Benefits Expansion Act\r\n HR 801 - Veterans' Survivor Benefits Improvements Act\r\n HJRes 65 - Commending the World War II veterans who fought in the Battle of the Bulge\r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://vandrew.house.gov/media/press-releases/cats-cannabis-coins-and-covid", "Cats, Cannabis, Coins and COVID", "2020-12-05", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "House", "NJ", "Jefferson Van Drew", "V000133", "vandrew.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Dear Friend,\nWe have anesthetic to numb some of the pain COVID has caused our families and friends to feel. Politicians here in DC refuse to implementthissolutionand every day our businesses wither on the vine and our neighbors struggle. This is not a Democrat or Republican problem or solutionit is an imperative. If we are asking everyone to disrupt their lives, we better be there to ease the pain that restrictions have caused. It is unbelievably dangerous to keep us in limbo with no legislative action. We have a bi-partisan, bi-cameral solution that will ensure:\n Our businesses have access to funds to keep their employees working\n\tThose forced on unemployment can continue to put food on their tables\n\tFunds for our state and local government to combat COVID\n\tRental assistance for those in need\n Instead of passing thissolution this week, hereare the priorities that Speaker Pelosi has had us vote on instead:\n Big Cat legislation\n\tLegalizing marijuana\n\tCommemorative coins\n As important as some of these issues may be, the next COVID relief package should be the only point of discussion. As always, I will be advocating for solutions that help ease the pain for all Americans. Please do not hesitate to reach out if our office can ever be of assistance.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409061", "<span class =\"kicker\">Rep. Smith's hearing statement on Ethiopian crisis</span>'The Unfolding Conflict in Ethiopia'", "2020-12-03", "2020", "2020-12", "Republican", "Senate", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Excerpts of remarks by Representative Chris Smith (R-NJ) at a hearing of the House Africa Subcommittee on the crisis in Ethiopia held on December 3, 2020:\r\nI'd like to thank Chairwoman Bass for once again convening a hearing on an extremely important topicthe unfolding conflict in Ethiopia, centered around the Tigray region, but one which impacts the entire country.\r\nIndeed, it is my belief that Ethiopia is one of the two most strategically significant countries in AfricaNigeria being the other oneand what happens there is amplified throughout the region. \r\nAnd while I am hopeful that the Ethiopian government's capturing of the regional Tigrayan capital of Mekelle, coupled with an announcement that the government will allow United Nations humanitarian assistance to flow in the region, signals an end to armed conflict, nonetheless my concern is that the fall of the capital marks simply the end to one stage of an armed civil conflict and signals the beginning of a protracted civil war characterized by guerilla tactics. This concern is based in part on the history of the Tigray People Liberation Front, or TPLF, and the geography of the Tigray region and Ethiopia.\r\nThe TPLF, of course, came to rule all of Ethiopia following a successful guerrilla campaign against the Derg  a case of a Marxist-inspired movement overthrowing a Marxist governmentin the early 1990s. As guerillas, the TPLF used the highland terrain of Ethiopia, including Tigray, to their advantage. \r\nDuring the years of TPLF rule, this subcommittee was at the forefront of raising concern about human rights abuses. Following a critical hearing I chaired in the Spring of 2005, I traveled to Ethiopia and met Prime Minister Meles that August, as well as with human rights leaders. I raised concerns directly with him, especially the egregiously flawed election and the killing of dissidents by his forces, and the next year introduced the Ethiopia Freedom, Democracy and Human Rights Advancement Act. \r\nFollowing the passing of Prime Minister Meles, domination by the TPLF continued, and this subcommittee held another critical hearing on Ethiopia after Meles, and The Future of Democracy and Human Rights. And it was a resolution which I introduced along with Chairwoman Bass, H. Res. 128, Supporting Respect for Human Rights and Encouraging Inclusive Governance in Ethiopia, that passed the House on April 10, 2018, which laid out milestones for a transition from rule by the TPLF. \r\nFollowing Prime Minister Abiy's ascension, Chairwoman Bass and I met with him in August 2018, and were encouraged by his words and actions, including the release of thousands of political prisoners. \r\nThe removal of the TPLF as the dominant power in Ethiopia, however, which had brought a reform-minded Prime Minister Abiy to leadership in 2018, also unleashed protracted jockeying between other ethnic groups, most notably the two largest, the Oromo and the Amhara, as well as intra-ethnic conflict. Indeed, Prime Minister Abiy's position among his own Oromo group is not solidified, and his pan-Ethiopian vision is being challenged by Oromo separatists, such as the Oromo Liberation Front, and a now-jailed firebrand, Jawar Mohammed. \r\nThese ethnic tensions are further exacerbated by a constitutional order bequeathed by the TPLF commonly called ethnic federalism, which has led to the pitting of one group against another and fueled regional separatism and the desire to cleanse regions of other ethnicities. \r\nThough it may not be considered polite to discuss issues such as ethnicity and religion, one cannot understand the current crisis in Ethiopia without reference to the ethnic tensions which are often overlaid with religious ones. We in Congress must be careful, however, to not inadvertently stir up further ethnicity-based division by taking the side of one group over another, but rather, urge a path of reconciliation and negotiation which will likely lead to no one being fully satisfied, but will help reduce tensions. \r\nMany individuals and groups can point to grievances, whether historical or ongoing, which are quite real. The war in Tigray threatens to exacerbate an already severe humanitarian problem. \r\nWe have seen crisis upon crisis upon crisis beset Ethiopia in this year alone. Not only did COVID impact Ethiopia, as it did so many countries, but on top of that there was a major locust plague which has created major food insecurity throughout Ethiopia, the Horn, East Africa and beyond. And now, armed conflict. \r\nThere needs to be a time for justice and accountability, for the atrocities committed by all sides. No matter what the exigent circumstances, civil libertieswhich Prime Minister Abiy to his credit helped restore in 2018cannot be curtailed indefinitely. \r\nBut first, we need to stop the bloodshed and address the humanitarian needs. And the anti-ethnic violence and hateful rhetoric must end. \r\nAs Secretary Mike Pompeo related in his call with Prime Minister Abiy on November 30, there should be a complete end to the fighting and constructive dialogue to resolve the crisis. He also stressed the need to protect civilians from further harm, including those fleeing the conflict crossing the border into Sudan, and respect for the human rights of all ethnic groups, including Tigrayans. \r\nFortunately, it looks like an agreement has been reached between the Ethiopian government and the United Nations to allow for unimpeded humanitarian access to areas of Tigray under government control. I hope that at a minimum the basic needs of those who have been displaced in the fightingwhich some estimate to be a million peoplecan now be addressed, even while political issues still remain to be resolved. \r\nEthiopia is a great country, a proud nation whose roots reach back to the Old Testament. It retained its independence where others didn't. It is the seat of the African Union, and a world leader. Its soldiers help keep peace in other countries in conflict, and its cultural and artistic influence is widespread. \r\nIt is therefore absolutely imperative that Ethiopia not succumb to internal division and ethnic hatred. Ethiopia is far too important, not just for the Ethiopian people, but for the entire Horn and Africa as a whole. It must overcome this year of crises, and return to being an example to be followed.\r\n I look forward to hearing from our witnesses. Thank you.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409056", "US lawmakers: UK Sec of State greatly disappoints, continues injustices of Finucane murder case", "2020-11-30", "2020", "2020-11", "Republican", "Senate", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "U.S. Reps. Chris Smith (R-NJ) and Richard Neal (D-MA), who spearheaded a bipartisan congressional letter urging an independent UK inquiry into government collusion in the 1989 assassination of human rights lawyer Patrick Finucane, today released the following statement in response to UK Secretary of State Brandon Lewis' disappointing decision to block a public hearing into the murder:\r\n  The British Government's announcement today, its most recent attempt to break its promise for a public inquiry into the murder of defense attorney Patrick Fincuane, is inconsistent, unrealistic and dismissive of the extraordinary human rights implications of his murdera case where the government has acknowledged collusion but will not accept responsibility.\r\n  Despite multiple public commitments to get to the truth and foster reconciliation for a lasting peace, the British government has instead engaged in years-long subterfuge, substituting one limited review after another, always short of the public inquiry.  \r\n\r\n  We had hoped that today would be different.We had hoped today would be the day the British Government would get back on track, follow through on its solemn obligation and hold accountable those responsible for this heinous crime.\r\n  Instead they offer more ploys, more maneuvering.\r\n  There is no statute of limitations on the truth. And while we are heartsick for Geraldine and the entire Finucane family we are no less determined to work with them to get to truth.\r\n  Smith, a senior member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, has chaired 17 congressional hearings on human rights and the peace process in the north of Ireland10 of which featured Finucane's surviving children and/or his wife Geraldine who was injured in the assassination.\r\n  Neal, chairman of both the bipartisan Friends of Ireland Caucus as well as the House Ways and Means Committee, has fought side-by-side with Smith and other members of the U.S. Congress for the Finucane family for over 30 years to obtain justice. Their bipartisan letter, signed by 24 Members of the U.S. Congress, was sent to Prime Minister Boris Johnson last week.\r\n ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409057", "<span class =\"kicker\">CNN Op-Ed by Smith, other lawmakers</span>'Fighting anti-Semitism online requires a global effort '", "2020-11-30", "2020", "2020-11", "Republican", "Senate", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Given the state of global affairs, it is not a given that we -- a bipartisan group of elected officials from Israel, the US, Canada, Australia and the UK -- would find common ground in the midst of a global pandemic. However, the disconcerting proliferation of anti-Semitism through new technology demands that we take urgent action.\r\n\r\nWe recently launchedthe Inter-Parliamentary Task Force to Combat Online Antisemitism in order to hold social media companies accountable for what takes place on their platforms and help create transparent policies to tackle hate speech.\r\nThe hate that we see online isn't just harmless chatter relegated to dark corners of the internet -- it often spills onto the streets, and dangerous propaganda can quickly transcend the geographic borders of any of our countries. Combating this global hatred, therefore, requires a global solution.\r\n  \r\nThe launch of our task force follows grassroots initiatives, including the#NoSafeSpaceForJewHatecampaign, and repeated calls to action after social media platforms have ignored or inadequately addressed virulent anti-Semitism on their platforms.\r\n\r\n\r\n    \r\n    \r\n      \r\n    Last year, Facebook's CEOMark Zuckerberg published acall for help from elected officials requesting that we take a more significant role in the battle to combat hate on the internet. We are here to answer this call.  \r\n    \r\n    Our task force, made up of lawmakers across the political spectrum, underscores the fact that the fight against anti-Semitism should be a nonpartisan issue in democratic countries and that virulent anti-Semitism is a poison that exists among both the far left and far right. We are launching this process with the mission of creating consistent understanding, messaging and policy to be utilized by our respective legislatures.\r\n      \r\n    We will hold virtual hearings, bringing together experts on technology and speech from around the world to meet directly with parliamentarians and tech companies in an unprecedented way. We will engage with social media companies to stress the tremendous duty that comes with the power that they hold, highlighting that these platforms can and should play an important role in raising awareness among their users about what content violates accepted norms while enabling the continuation of open and free dialogue.\r\n      \r\n    Despite the variations in our countries' policies regarding hate speech, there are shared principles that can be utilized in battling anti-Semitism online. Recognizing when free speech crosses into dangerous hate speech enables the creation of boundaries online while protecting the fundamental freedoms of discourse.\r\n      \r\n    While our task force will focus on combating online anti-Semitism, we recognize that if one minority cannot be protected by policy, ultimately none can be. In doing so, the task force can serve as a model for the collaboration necessary to protect all minority groups from online hate.\r\n      \r\n    As elected officials, we also have an obligation to our constituents. We will engage with communities and organizations and publish recommendations that can help all social media users feel safer. We will hold those promoting online hate to account, and we will push companies to consider more stringent guardrails to prevent the kind of offensive and harassing content that is all too prevalent.\r\n      \r\n    We must come together to more skillfully combat online anti-Semitism, with social media companies recognizing their power and responsibility to prevent users from spreading corrosive hate on these platforms. Only by working together do we have a shot at making significant changes.\r\n      \r\n    Anti-Semitism has survived millennia because it constantly adapts. We must rise to today's challenge of fighting this hatred in its latest form. By bringing together parliamentarians representing different countries and political beliefs, we are forming a united front and a global commitment to combating this deeply serious issue.\r\n      \r\n    Michal Cotler-Wunsh is a member of Knesset in the Blue and White Party in Israel\r\n    Ted Deutch is a Democratic member of Congress in the United States\r\n    Debbie Wasserman Schultz is a Democratic member of Congress in the United States\r\n    Chris Smith is a Republican member of Congress in the United States\r\n    Anthony Housefather is a Liberal member of Parliament in Canada\r\n    Marty Morantz is a Conservative member of Parliament in Canada\r\n    Randall Garrison is an NDP member of Parliament in Canada.\r\n    Dave Sharma is a Liberal member of Parliament in Australia\r\n    Josh Burns is a Labor member of Parliament in Australia\r\n    Alex Sobel is a Labour and Cooperative member of Parliament in the United Kingdom\r\n    Andrew Percy is a Conservative member of Parliament in the United Kingdom\r\n    Michael Levitt is a former Liberal member of Parliament in Canada\r\n      \r\n    Editor's Note: The Inter-Parliamentary Task Force to Combat Online Antisemitism is made up of a multiparty group of lawmakers from Israel, the US, Canada, Australia, and the UK. The views expressed in this commentary belong to the authors. Viewmore opinionat CNN.This article was originally published by CNN on Nov. 30, 2020 and can be found online at:\r\n    https://www.cnn.com/2020/11/30/opinions/tackling-antisemitism-online-inter-parlimentary-task-force/index.html", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409054", "US lawmakers send bipartisan letter to UK prime minister urging independent, judicial investigation into Finucane murder", "2020-11-25", "2020", "2020-11", "Republican", "Senate", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "The United Kingdom must end years of delay and establish an independent inquiry into collusion in the 1989 murder of human rights lawyer Patrick Finucane, said Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), who with Rep. Richard Neal (D-MA) sent a bipartisan letter signed by 24 members of the U.S. Congress to Prime Minister Boris Johnson.\r\n Pat Finucane was a courageous defense attorney, a loving father and husband, gunned down because of his commitment to human rights and the rule of law,said Smith, who has chaired 17 congressional hearings on human rights and the peace process in the north of Ireland10 of which featured Finucane's surviving children and/or his wife Geraldine who was injured in the assassination. The British government's deliberate decision not to proceed with an independent, judicial inquiry into the Finucane murderan unfulfilled commitment of the peace processis a public breach of faith. It resonates throughout Northern Ireland and among international lawmakers and human rights observers, undercutting the good the British government has done and its commitment to justice, truth and reconciliation.\r\n   Said Neil, As chairman of the bipartisan Friends of Ireland Caucus in the United State Congress, I once again join my colleagues calling on the British government to hold a public inquiry into the killing of human rights lawyer Pat Finucane. I continue to believe the Finucane family has a right to truth and justice and that is why I have worked closely with them on this case on both sides of the Atlantic for more than three decades. They deserve to know what happened in February of 1989 and the level of state collusion into the murder of their husband and father. This letter is calling on the British government to be accountable.  \r\n\r\n The letter read, in part, We write to urge you to establish an independent public inquiry into state collusion in the murder of human rights attorney Patrick Finucane at his home in Belfast in front of his wife and children on February 12, 1989. Recent news reports state that, to comply with court orders, a decision will be made by November 30th. Establishing the independent judicial inquiry is in keeping with your government's commitments throughout the peace process and the public interest. Click here to read the letter.  \r\n\r\n  In 2007, Smith and Neal also teamed up to introduce a House resolution Smith authored, H.Con.Res.20, Calling on the Government of the United Kingdom to immediately establish a full, independent, and public judicial inquiry into the murder of Northern Ireland defense attorney Patrick Finucane. The resolution, authored by Smith, passed 364-34 in the House, and unanimously in the Senate.  \r\n\r\n  We are once again urging our friends in the British government to do what's right and we stand in solidarity with the Finucane family which has long sought the truth in the case and accountability for those responsible for this crime,\" said Smith who has had four resolutions pass the House urging the British to conduct the independent inquiry: 1999, 2002, 2006 and 2007.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://vandrew.house.gov/media/press-releases/question-voters-cure-advocate-john-atwood", "Question from Voters for Cure Advocate John Atwood", "2020-11-25", "2020", "2020-11", "Republican", "House", "NJ", "Jefferson Van Drew", "V000133", "vandrew.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "How do you feel about President Trump moving forward with his Most Favored Nation policy right when several pharmaceutical companies have announced they are close to delivering a highly effective vaccine for COVID-19?\n\"For too long our seniors have had to bear the brunt of rising drug prices. I believe it is possible to balance protecting our seniors from rising drug prices and also ensuring that we have the research and development we need in the future.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409052", "<span class =\"kicker\">APP article on Monmouth parents of child w Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy Smith trying to assist</span>'Manalapan charity wants to raffle car online; state says no'", "2020-11-20", "2020", "2020-11", "Republican", "Senate", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "By Jerry Carino, Asbury Park Press staff, USA TODAY NETWORK \r\n\r\n  \r\nJim and Karen Raffone thought they had the perfect fundraiser for their charity, which sponsors major research on Duchenne muscular dystrophy: All American Ford in Old Bridge donated a 2020 Ford Mustang convertible for them to raffle off.\r\nWe thought we could raise $100,000, Jim Raffone said. We raised approximately $25,000 before we had to stop.\r\nThen the office of New Jersey Attorney General Gurbir Grewal informed them they were in violation of the law.\r\nUnder existing New Jersey law remote and online raffles are not permitted, said Gema de las Heras, the Attorney General's office spokeswoman,in an email.\"Our Division of Consumer Affairs has discussed several options with the family's representatives and stands ready to assist them and other nonprofits who seek to hold raffles find a path forward working within the existing law.\"\r\nMy Cause MyCleats:NFL player wears cleats in ailing Manalapan boy's honor\r\n\r\nPHOTO: Jamesy Raffone atop of dad Jim Raffone'sshoulders during a Jan of Hope event.\r\n\r\nThe Raffones, who live in Manalapan, were conducting the raffle online because of the gathering restrictions imposed by Gov. Phil Murphy during the coronavirus pandemic. The pandemic has grinded fundraising events to a halt for nonprofits across the state, threatening their survival in many cases.  \r\n\r\nEvery charity in New Jersey is not allowed to do what I'm fighting for, Raffone said. We can't even have an event inside. It's very, very difficult. We're looking to host a clinical trial by January and it's going to cost us $2 million. How do I get this $2 million?\r\nThe Raffones' nonprofit, JAR of Hope, was founded in 2013 after theirson James was diagnosed with Duchenne muscular dystrophy, a degenerative condition that eventually results in total muscle failure. Patients seldom live past their 20s.Jamesy is now 11 years old and still walking.\r\nWe're keeping the disease at bay as much as possible, Jim Raffone said, but it's still doing what it wants to do.\r\n\r\nPHOTO: Jamesy Raffone (left) with dad Jim Raffone.\r\n\r\nAsbury Park fundraiser:Johnny Rzeznik, Jim Babjak, Joe Grushecky, more set for online Shine a Light  \r\n\r\nThrough the years JAR of Hope has aggressively fundraised for Duchenne research. Jim Raffone has run ultramarathons, rung the closing bell of the New York Stock Exchange, organized a world record-breaking Legochain, and enlisted the public support of pro football players. Last month he raised $165,000 by walking 260 miles from Washington, D.C. to Old Bridge.\r\nAmong those who greeted him at the finish line was his congressman, U.S. Rep. Chris Smith.\r\nWe've been working with him since 2014, Smith said via phone. He and his wife are such wonderful people.\r\n  \r\n  \r\nClick here or on image above for photo slides show. On Wednesday Smith wrote a letter to Gov. Phil Murphy urging a waiver of the online raffle regulation for JAR of Hope and other nonprofits.\r\nThis should be right up his alley, Smith said of Murphy. During this crisis just about everything else that can be waived is waived, so why not just do it with an executive order? It'll help other very important charities, too.\r\nAcknowledging the general concern about online raffles the drawing should be witnessed, to ensure its fairness Smith said safeguards can be be put into place so charlatans don't get involved.\r\nDe las Heras, of the attorney general's office, mentioned one possibility in her email to the Press.\r\nThe Legalized Games of Chance Control Commission (LGCCC) within the Division of Consumer Affairs understands that the public health emergency has affected nonprofit organizations and their ability to fundraise during the pandemic, she wrote. The LGCCC has been assisting nonprofit organizations identify alternatives to in-person events, such as live streaming video of the raffle drawings.\r\nA live-streamed drawing would solvehalf the problem. The other half, the prohibition of online raffle ticket sales, continues to be an issue. It's hard to collect raffle tickets when gatherings are not allowed.\r\n\r\n\r\nPHOTO: Rep. Chris Smith (right) with Jim and Karen Raffone at the end \r\nof Jim's 260-mile charity walk last month.\r\n\r\n\r\nOn Wednesday Murphy signaled a willingness to bend on the issue, signing a bill expanding charities' ability to sell raffle tickets online based around sporting events raffles that otherwise would have occurred in stadiums and arenas.\r\nThat does not help JAR of Hope, though, since no sporting event or stadium was involved. So at the moment Raffone has a Mustang valued at $46,000 and a stalled raffle.\r\nHere in New Jersey, on any given day, millions of dollars can be bet online on professional football, horse racing, tennis, golf, college football, basketball, baseball and all other sports, Raffone's attorney James Aaron wrote in a letter to lawmakers. Even playing poker and other games of chance can be bet on with a simple turning on of the computer, yet a charity of this nature trying to save the life of a child and other children similarly situated, cannot take advantage of the internet and an online raffle.\r\nEligible organizations are encouraged to direct related questions to AskConsumerAffairs@dca.lps.state.nj.us. or call (973) 273-8000.\r\nJerry Carino is community columnist for the Asbury Park Press, focusing on the Jersey Shore's interesting people, inspiring stories and pressing issues.\r\n\r\nOn Wednesday Murphy signaled a willingness to bend on the issue, signing a bill expanding charities' ability to sell raffle tickets online based around sporting eventsraffles that otherwise would have occurredin stadiums and arenas.\r\nThat does not helpJAR of Hope, though, since no sporting event or stadium was involved. So at the moment Raffone has a Mustang valued at $46,000 and a stalled raffle. \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nHere in New Jersey, on any given day, millions of dollars can be bet online on professional football, horse racing, tennis, golf, college football, basketball, baseball and all other sports, Raffone's attorney James Aaron wrote in a letter to lawmakers. Even playing poker and other games of chance can be bet on with a simple turning on of the computer, yet a charity of this nature trying to save the life of a child and other children similarly situated, cannot take advantage of the internet and an online raffle.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nOn Wednesday Murphy signaled a willingness to bend on the issue, signing a bill expanding charities' ability to sell raffle tickets online based around sporting eventsraffles that otherwise would have occurredin stadiums and arenas.\r\nThat does not helpJAR of Hope, though, since no sporting event or stadium was involved. So at the moment Raffone has a Mustang valued at $46,000 and a stalled raffle. \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nHere in New Jersey, on any given day, millions of dollars can be bet online on professional football, horse racing, tennis, golf, college football, basketball, baseball and all other sports, Raffone's attorney James Aaron wrote in a letter to lawmakers. Even playing poker and other games of chance can be bet on with a simple turning on of the computer, yet a charity of this nature trying to save the life of a child and other children similarly situated, cannot take advantage of the internet and an online raffle.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409053", "<span class =\"kicker\">House passes Smith bill</span>Smith statement as House debates Belarus Democracy, Human Rights and Sovereignty Act of 2020", "2020-11-18", "2020", "2020-11", "Republican", "Senate", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "The following are excerpts of remarks by Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) in the House of Representatives during debate on H.R. 8428, Belarus Democracy, Human Rights, and Sovereignty Act of 2020 on November 18, 2020:\r\n Madam Speaker, I urge swift enactment into law of the bipartisan Belarus Democracy, Human Rights and Sovereignty Act of 2020 which I introduced.  \r\n\r\n And here's why this legislation is absolutely needed now.  \r\n\r\n Belarus was perhaps the nation most mired in its Soviet past, with an inefficient economy and a strongman autocrat in charge for over two-and-a-half decades. Yet the indomitable spirit of freedom stirred among the people of Belarus, and when a patently false election result was announced on August 9th declaring Alyaksandr Lukashenka the winner, the people took to the streets.  \r\n\r\n The OSCE Moscow Mechanism, reported November 5 that there is overwhelming evidence that Belarus's August 9 presidential election results were falsified and that systematic\" human rights violations have been committed by the country's security forces in response to the peaceful demonstrations the vote sparked.  \r\n\r\n Now, reports out of Belarus indicate that police are using increasingly violent tactics against these peaceful demonstrators.  \r\n\r\n The BBC summed it yesterday in an article Belarus protesters battered, bruised but defiant after 100 days which said in part:  \r\n\r\nOpposition protesters remain defiant in Belarus despite police brutality, 100 days after they first took to the streets to denounce the re-election of President Alexander Lukashenko.  \r\n\r\n\r\nPolice in helmets and body armour throw women holding flowers and balloons into police vans. Officers tear-gas elderly people on a pensioners' march  \r\n\r\nYet every Sunday thousands still pour into the streets of the capital Minsk, condemning what they see as Mr Lukashenko's fraudulent 9 August victory  \r\n\r\nAlesya, a 31-year old worker in the IT industry, regularly attends the Sunday rallies. On 15 November, however, things turned nasty very quickly. When she arrived at the square where the march was supposed to start, it was already packed with security forces. As more people gathered, officers fired stun grenades and started hitting people with batons to disperse the crowd.  \r\n\r\n\"They attacked us again and again. It was awful. They ferociously beat people, twisted their arms and took them away,\" she said.  \r\n\r\nShe ran away into courtyards following other protesters, but police in their minivans quickly caught up with them even there. She was saved by a stranger who hid her and several others in his house.  \r\n\r\n\"It felt like World War Two, when people tried to hide Jews from the Nazis. It was terrifying, we were shocked.\" \r\nThat march was called in memory of Roman Bondarenko, an activist who was beaten in detention and died in hospital last week.  \r\n\r\n Madame Speaker, the people of Belarusespecially the pro-democracy leadersdesperately need our help.  \r\n\r\n And they need it right now.  \r\n\r\n As my colleagues know, the leading opposition presidential candidate Svetlana Tsikhanouskaya who almost certainly won the election in Augustformed the Coordination Council.  \r\n\r\n The democratic opposition is united, smart, principled, tenacious and extraordinarily brave.  \r\n\r\n Ms. Tsikhanouskaya ran a courageous campaign but today is in exile in Lithuania where she continues to rally the Belarusian people and the world and demand democracy and human rights for all the people of her nation.\r\n Last night I read portions of the transcript of a hearing I chaired in 2011after another fraudulent Belarusian election. Then, as now, and on many other occasions, Lukashenka's bullies beat, jailed and assaulted peaceful protestors.  \r\n\r\n The big mistake of the pastfatigue or lack of commitment and perseverance by the international communitycan't be repeated this time.  \r\n\r\n (On two separate occasions, I met with Lukashenka in Minsk and came away resolved to accelerate the struggle for democracy and freedom.)  \r\n\r\n My bipartisan bill, H.R. 8438the Belarus Democracy, Human Rights and Sovereignty Act of 2020updates, strengthens and expands the Belarus Democracy Acts of 2004, 2006, and 2011, laws that I also authored, and renews the personal economic and visa sanctions on an expanded list of actors in the Belarusian Government and Russian individuals complicit in the crackdown.  \r\n\r\n Yesterday, Svetlana Tsikhanouskaya, again called for the sanctions embedded in my bill. The time to act is now.  \r\n\r\n Among its many other provisions, the legislation:  \r\n\r\n Calls for new elections.  \r\n\r\n \r\n    It recognizes the Coordination Council as a legitimate institution to participate in a dialogue on a peaceful transition of power.\r\n    It calls for the release of all political prisoners.\r\n    It supports the aspirations of the people of Belarus to exercise their religious freedom.\r\n    It authorizes assistance to promote democracy and civil society in Belarus.\r\n    It unequivocally states that it is the policy of the United States not to recognize any incorporation of Belarus into a Union State' with Russia.\r\n    It requires a U.S. strategy to promote broadcasting, internet freedom and access to information.\r\n    In addition, it gives much needed support to the Belarusian media, and to the IT sector. \r\n \r\n By passing this bill today followed by approval in the Senate and signing into law by the President, we can not only reiterate but significantly expand our support and solidarity with the great people of Belarus. [Following debate, the Smith bill passed on Nov. 18, 2020 in a unanimous voice vote.]", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409045", "Smith statement on the Belarus Democracy, Human Rights and Sovereignty Act being debated by the House", "2020-11-17", "2020", "2020-11", "Republican", "Senate", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "The following are excerpts of remarks by Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) in the House of Representatives for debate on H.R. 8428,The Belarus Democracy, Human Rights, andSovereignty Act of 2020 onNovember 18, 2020:\r\nMadam Speaker, I urge swift enactment into law of the bipartisan Belarus Democracy, Human Rights and Sovereignty Act of 2020 which I introduced.\r\n And here's why this legislation is absolutely needed now.\r\n Belarus was perhaps the nation most mired in its Soviet past, with an inefficient economy and a strongman autocrat in charge for over two-and-a-half decades. Yet the indomitable spirit of freedom stirred among the people of Belarus, and when a patently false election result was announced on August 9th declaring Alyaksandr Lukashenka the winner, the people took to the streets.\r\n The OSCE Moscow Mechanism, reported November 5 that there is overwhelming evidence that Belarus's August 9 presidential election results were falsified and that systematic\" human rights violations have been committed by the country's security forces in response to the peaceful demonstrations the vote sparked.\r\n Now, reports out of Belarus indicate that police are using increasingly violent tactics against these peaceful demonstrators.\r\n The BBC summed it yesterday in an article Belarus protesters battered, bruised but defiant after 100 days which said in part:\r\nOpposition protesters remain defiant in Belarus despite police brutality, 100 days after they first took to the streets to denounce the re-election of President Alexander Lukashenko.\r\nPolice in helmets and body armour throw women holding flowers and balloons into police vans. Officers tear-gas elderly people on a pensioners' march \r\nYet every Sunday thousands still pour into the streets of the capital Minsk, condemning what they see as Mr Lukashenko's fraudulent 9 August victory\r\nAlesya, a 31-year old worker in the IT industry, regularly attends the Sunday rallies. On 15 November, however, things turned nasty very quickly. \r\nWhen she arrived at the square where the march was supposed to start, it was already packed with security forces. As more people gathered, officers fired stun grenades and started hitting people with batons to disperse the crowd. \r\n\"They attacked us again and again. It was awful. They ferociously beat people, twisted their arms and took them away,\" she said. \r\nShe ran away into courtyards following other protesters, but police in their minivans quickly caught up with them even there. She was saved by a stranger who hid her and several others in his house.\r\n\"It felt like World War Two, when people tried to hide Jews from the Nazis. It was terrifying, we were shocked.\" \r\nThat march was called in memory of Roman Bondarenko, an activist who was beaten in detention and died in hospital last week.\r\n\r\n I reiterate Secretary of State Michael Pompeo's November 12 appeal to Lukashenka: We once again call on the Belarusian authorities to immediately cease the escalating use of violence against peaceful demonstrators... .\r\n Madame Speaker, the people of Belarusespecially the pro-democracy leadersdesperately need our help. \r\n And they need it right now.\r\n As my colleagues know, the leading opposition presidential candidate Svetlana Tsikhanouskaya who almost certainly won the election in Augustformed the Coordination Council. \r\n The democratic opposition is united, smart, principled, tenacious and extraordinarily brave.\r\nMs. Tsikhanouskaya ran a courageous campaign but today is in exile in Lithuania where she continues to rally the Belarusian people and the world and demand democracy and human rights for all the people of her nation.\r\n Last night I read portions of the transcript of a hearing I chaired in 2011after another fraudulent Belarusian election. Then, as now, and on many other occasions, Lukashenka's bullies beat, jailed and assaulted peaceful protestors.\r\n The big mistake of the pastfatigue or lack of commitment and perseverance by the international communitycan't be repeated this time.\r\n (On two separate occasions, I met with Lukashenka in Minsk and came away resolved to accelerate the struggle for democracy and freedom.)\r\n My bipartisan bill, H.R. 8438the Belarus Democracy, Human Rights and Sovereignty Act of 2020updates, strengthens and expands the Belarus Democracy Acts of 2004, 2006, and 2011, laws that I also authored, and renews the personal economic and visa sanctions on an expanded list of actors in the Belarusian Government and Russian individuals complicit in the crackdown.\r\n Yesterday, Svetlana Tsikhanouskaya again called for the sanctions embedded in my bill. The time to act is now.\r\n Among its many other provisions, the legislation:\r\n Calls for new elections. \r\n It recognizes the Coordination Council as a legitimate institution to participate in a dialogue on a peaceful transition of power.\r\n It calls for the release of all political prisoners.\r\n It supports the aspirations of the people of Belarus to exercise their religious freedom.\r\n It authorizes assistance to promote democracy and civil society in Belarus.\r\n It unequivocally states that it is the policy of the United States not to recognize any incorporation of Belarus into a Union State' with Russia.\r\n It requires a U.S. strategy to promote broadcasting, internet freedom and access to information.\r\n In addition, it gives much needed support to the Belarusian media, and to the IT sector. \r\n By passing this bill today followed by approval in the Senate and signing into law by the President, we can not only reiterate but significantly expand our support and solidarity with the great people of Belarus.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://vandrew.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-jeff-van-drew-statement-governor-murphys-new-restrictions", "Congressman Jeff Van Drew Statement on Governor Murphy's New Restrictions", "2020-11-16", "2020", "2020-11", "Republican", "House", "NJ", "Jefferson Van Drew", "V000133", "vandrew.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "As elected officials we take an oath to preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of the United States and the First Amendment is crystal clear about the right of the people to peacefully assemble, particularly in the privacy of their own homes ahead of Thanksgiving, Christmas, and the rest of the Holiday Season, said United States Congressman Jeff Van Drew. This is the United States of America, and no matter how noble Governor Murphy may believe his intentions to be, he must respect the rule of law and the limits on his executive authority or the State Legislature and the people of New Jersey must hold him accountable.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409043", "Statement on Chinese Gov't removal of four elected pro-democracy Hong Kong lawmakers", "2020-11-12", "2020", "2020-11", "Republican", "Senate", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), author of the House-passed Hong Kong Human Rights and Democracy Act, said: the Chinese Communist Party's (CCP) forced removal of four duly elected pro-democracy lawmakers from Hong Kong's Legislative Council is outrageous, unjustified and absolutely dishonorable and tells the world that human rights and the rule of law are a cruel joke under the dictatorship of Xi Jinping.\r\nSmith continued, Today's mass resignation of all the remaining pro-democracy lawmakers to protest Beijing's iron fist policies toward Hong Kong and the lawmakers deserves the deepest respect, support and admiration of everyone who cherishes freedom. The entire free worldnot just a few nations like the United Statesmust sanction Beijing and hold the CCP to account.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409042", "<span class =\"kicker\">On Veterans Day, Smiths 15th veterans law goes to White House  VFW, Sierra Club praise Smith bill</span>Smiths outdoor therapy vets bill clears Senate", "2020-11-11", "2020", "2020-11", "Republican", "Senate", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "On the eve of the Veterans' Day holiday, legislation authored by Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) to help veterans heal through outdoor recreational therapy cleared the Senate and was on its way to the President's desk for signing and implementation.\r\n Smith's bipartisan Accelerating Veterans Recovery Outdoors Act (H.R. 2435), which was endorsed by more than 120 veteran service organizations, outdoor recreation groups and conservation organizations, will provide increased access to federal lands for the purposes of veterans' medical recovery therapy.Smith's billcosponsored by 135 bipartisan lawmakerswas included in a package of veterans' legislation, The Veterans' COMPACT Act (H.R. 8247), which passed the House of Representatives in September and was approved by the Senate late last night.\r\n Research has increasingly shown that outdoor recreation can be an effective form of treatment, rehabilitation and healing for veterans, said Smith, author of the Veterans Health Programs Improvement Act (P.L. 108-422), and 13 other veterans laws.\r\n While many nonprofit organizations, veteran service organizations and private companies have used the outdoors to help heroes heal, providing greater coordination among key federal agencies will open new opportunities for veterans on public lands and other outdoor spaces, said Smith, who has twice served as chair of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee.\r\n The new law will require the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish an interagency task force on the use of public lands to provide medical treatment and therapy to veterans through outdoor recreation. After undertaking a comprehensive analysis, the task force will submit recommendations to Congress, within one year, on how to eliminate barriers and provide more public outdoor space for use by our veterans. Click here to watch Chris Smith's remarks on the House Floor.\r\nNearly 75 years ago, Congress passed and President Eisenhower signed a law changing Nov. 11 from Armistice Day to Veterans Day, Smith said. It's a day for us all to recall those who've served, those who didn't come home and those who came back with the scars of war who need help to heal. That's what this bill is all about, and it is especially fitting that today, on Veterans Day 2020, this bill is heading to the White House to be signed into law.\r\n Veterans and environmental groups praised the bill upon House passage and pushed for Senate approval as well.\r\n Said New Jersey VFW State Legislative Director William F. Thomson: Congratulations to Chris Smith on another important piece of veteran legislation. Congressman Smith has been a three-time recipient of the New Jersey Veterans of Foreign Wars Legislator of the Year award and National Veterans of Foreign Wars Legislator of the Year award. He has always shown that veterans are important to him and our nations. He is one of the New Jersey Veterans best friends in Congress.\r\n Said Jeff Tittel, Director of the New Jersey Sierra Club, For the people who have given their all for this country, we need to do all we can to help them. That includes access to National Parks and outdoor activities. The outdoors experience has restorative powers, whether you are hiking, mountain biking, camping, or communing with nature. It helps to inspire us and heals our body and spirit. Connecting with nature and being in the wilderness is a powerful part of healing, and the Accelerating Veterans Recovery Outdoors Act will help veterans access that power. My dad was a WWII veteran who was at the Bulge and many other battles. He was also a Sierra Club member for over 40 years. He became an avid hiker and outdoor person when he came back, which helped him deal with everything he went through. It also helped bond us together through an appreciation of nature.\r\n Our public lands are places for respite and healing, but for many veterans, those landscapes remain out of reach, said Rob Vessels, campaign manager of Sierra Club Military Outdoors. Today's vote is an important first step in eliminating those barriers to access, so veterans can heal on the lands they swore an oath to protect. We thank Rep. Chris Smith and Rep. Adam Smith for their work on this critical issue.\r\n\r\n According to the Department of Veterans Affairs' National Center for PTSD, between 11 and 20 percent of veterans who served in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, 12 percent of those who served in Desert Storm have PTSD in a given year, and 30 percent of those who served in Vietnam, will have had PTSD in their lifetime.\r\n\r\n    \r\n        \r\n            \r\n        \r\n    \r\n\r\nPHOTO: On the House floor Sept. 23, Rep. Chris Smith thanked Sierra Club for its leadership, and his 130-plus colleagues who cosponsored his bill, including Armed Service Committee Chairman Adam Smith (D-WA). He recounted the true story of a veteran suffering from PTSD, and his positive encounter with nature.\r\n Smith's other veterans bills signed into law:\r\n H.R.4511 - Gold Star Families Voices Act of 2016\r\n HR 4175 - Veterans' Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2004\r\n HR 2297 - Veterans Benefits Act of 2003 \r\n HR 1683 Veterans' Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2003 \r\n HR 100 Servicemembers Civil Relief Act of 2003\r\n HR 4085 Veterans' Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2002 \r\n HR 3838 - To amend the charter of the Veterans of Foreign Wars \r\n HR 3447 - Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care Programs Enhancement Act of 2001\r\n HR 3253 - Department of Veterans Affairs Emergency Preparedness Act of 2002 11/7/02\r\n HR 2716 - Homeless Veterans Comprehensive Assistance Act of 2001\r\n HR 2540 - Veterans' Compensation Rate Amendments of 2001\r\n HR 1291 - Veterans Education and Benefits Expansion Act of 2001\r\n HR 801 - Veterans' Survivor Benefits Improvements Act of 2001\r\n HJRes 65 - Commending the World War II veterans who fought in the Battle of the Bulge\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409033", "<span class =\"kicker\">The Monitor of Trenton</span>'As trafficking law turns 20, Rep. Smith fears pandemic fosters child exploitation'", "2020-10-30", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "Senate", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "By Julie Asher, Catholic News Service  \r\n\r\nAstheTraffickingVictims Protection Act of 2000 marked its 20th year Oct. 28, the Catholic congressman who wrote it -- and four other anti-traffickinglaws in the intervening yearscelebrated the historic legislation that holds every nation on the globe \"to account on humantraffickingmatters.\"\r\nBut in celebrating thelaw's anniversary,Rep. ChrisSmith, R-New Jersey, and member of St. Gregory the Great Parish, Hamilton Square, also expressed serious concern the ongoingpandemicis putting more children and young people at risk ofexploitation.\r\nWith restrictions in place to stop the spread of COVID-19, they are spending so much more time on the internet, he said.\r\n\"Some of today's challenges, suchashow ever-evolving technology is being utilized by predators to lure children intotrafficking, could not have been anticipated20years ago,\"Smithsaid.\r\n\"Today, due to COVID-19 restrictions, young people are spending more time online and evidence suggests a huge spike in predators' access to children on the internet and the rise of online grooming and sexualexploitationwhile children are isolated and 'virtually' connected to the world,\" he added.  \r\n\r\nIn his home state alone, he said, reports of onlinechildexploitationare up 75 percent, according to the Asbury Park Press daily newspaper. \"(This) can lead to humantraffickingand other abuses,\"Smithsaid.  \r\n\r\nHe made the comments in an op-ed he distributed to media around the country, including Catholic News Service.\r\nThelawhe wrote \"to aggressively combat sex and labortraffickingboth within the United States and around the world,\" he said, \"created a new, well-funded whole-of-government domestic and international strategy and established numerous new programs to protect victims, prosecute traffickers and to the extent possible, prevent humantraffickingin the first place.\"\r\n\"Thousands of human traffickers have been prosecuted and jailed pursuant\" under the landmarklaw, he said, including Jeffrey Epstein, a wealthy financier and convicted sex offender who federal prosecutors charged in 2019 with creating a sextraffickingoperation involving dozens of underage girls.\r\nBefore he could face trial on the charges, Epstein was found dead Aug. 19, 2019, in his cell in a federal prison in New York, the victim of an apparent suicide.\r\nSmithalso pointed to Keith Raniere and Allison Mackasexamples of others prosecuted under the TVPA.\r\nRaniere was the leader of NXIVM, an organization he describedasa self-help group but what prosecutors called a sex cult. He was convicted in June 2019 on charges including sexualexploitation, forced labor and sextrafficking. This October, on Oct. 27, he was sentenced to 120 years in prison by a federal court in Brooklyn, New York.\r\nMack, a TV actress known for her role in \"Smallville,\" was a high-ranking member of Raniere's organization and faces multiple charges for allegedly being involved in a scheme to turn women into sex slaves. She pleaded guilty to racketeering charges in April 2019 and is awaiting sentencing.\r\nSmithsaid the TVPA \"included a number of 'sea change' criminal code reforms including treatingasa victimand not a perpetrator of a crimeanyone exploited by a commercial sex act who had not attained the age of 18 and anyone older where there was an element of force, fraud or coercion.\"\r\n\"The TVPA radically reformed the U.S. criminal code to authorize asset confiscation and jail sentences of up to life imprisonment for the predators,\" he continued.\r\n\"Most importantly, because of the TVPA, many victims have been rescued and protected,\" he said, \"while comprehensive prevention strategies have spared many from theexploitationand abuse of the crime that treats mostly women and childrenasmere commodities to be bought and sold.\"\r\nThe 2000lawincluded the Campus Sex Crimes Prevention Act and the Battered Immigrant Women Protection Act and reauthorized the Violence Against Women Act.\r\nIt also provided for sheltering and a national hotline available 24/7(888) 373-7888and for refugees, created a new asylum categorythe T visato protect victims and their families.\r\nThe visa enables certain humantraffickingvictims to remain in the United States for up to four years if they have assistedlawenforcement in an investigation or prosecution of humantrafficking.\r\nSmithsponsored four additional laws to combat humantraffickingin 2003, 2005, 2016 and 2019. Signed intolawby President Donald Trump, the 2019lawis called the Frederick DouglassTraffickingVictims Prevention and Protection Act.\r\nThelawfor the first time authorizes federal grants for local educational agencies \"to educate school staff to recognize and respond to signs of sex and labortraffickingand provide age-appropriate information to students on how to avoid becoming victims,\" saidSmith, who founded the Congressional HumanTraffickingCaucus and has chaired dozens of hearings on humantrafficking.\r\n\"Twenty years after the TVPA becamelaw, the nefarious trade in women and childrenmodern-day slaveryhas become more visible and a more urgent priority forlawenforcement on all levels,\" the congressman said. \"Much remains to be done to protect victims, prosecute traffickers and prevent humantrafficking.\r\nRep. ChrisSmith's complete op-ed can be found on the website of the Asbury Park Press,https://bit.ly/35FEqbW.\r\n\r\nhttps://trentonmonitor.com/Content/Default/World-Nation/Article/As-trafficking-law-turns-20-Rep-Smith-fears-pandemic-fosters-child-exploitation/-3/274/24173", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409037", "<span class =\"kicker\">Trentonian Op-Ed</span>'Smiths historic anti-trafficking law marks 20th year'", "2020-10-30", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "Senate", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "This week marks the 20th anniversary of the Trafficking Victims Protection Act (TVPA) of 2000the comprehensive, historic law that I authored to aggressively combat sex and labor trafficking both within the United States and around the world.\r\nThe TVPA created a new, well-funded whole-of-government domestic and international strategy and established numerous new programs to Protect victims, Prosecute traffickers and to the extent possible, Prevent human trafficking in the first place.\r\nThousands of human traffickers have been prosecuted and jailed pursuant to the TVPA including all charges in 2019 against Jeffrey Epstein and the infamous sex trafficking ring convictions involving NXIVM's Keith Raniere and Smallville actress Allison Mack. \r\nThe TVPA included a number of sea change criminal code reforms including treating as a victimand not a perpetrator of a crimeanyone exploited by a commercial sex act who had not attained the age of 18 and anyone older where there was an element of force, fraud or coercion.\r\nThe TVPA radically reformed the U.S. criminal code to authorize asset confiscation and jail sentences of up to life imprisonment for the predators. \r\nMost importantly, because of the TVPA, many victims have been rescued and protected while comprehensive prevention strategies have spared many from the exploitation and abuse of the crime that treats mostly women and children as mere commodities to be bought and sold.\r\nOf significance, my law also included the Campus Sex Crimes Prevention Act, the Battered Immigrant Women Protection Act and reauthorized the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA)doubling VAWA funding to $3.3 billion over five years for women's shelters, rehab programs, housing and other initiatives for battered and abused women.\r\n\r\n    \r\n        \r\n            \r\n        \r\n    \r\n\r\nOver the years, I've authored four additional laws to combat human traffickingincluding in 2003, 2005, 2016, and 2019. \r\nBelieving that federal law needed parallel state and local statues to foster an effective prosecution strategy to combat human trafficking, the TVPA included new DOJ programs to assist states in crafting laws and authorized the creation of new anti-human trafficking task forces.\r\nIn like manner, the TVPA provides law reform and best-practice technical assistance to other countries. \r\nThe Act also included sheltering and a national hotline, and on the refugee side, created a new asylum categorythe T visato protect victims and their families.\r\nAmong its many other provisions, the Trafficking Victims Protection Act also created the President's Interagency Task Force to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons the U.S. State Department's Office to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons and annual TIP reports with its tier grading of every nation's record in making serious and sustained efforts to eliminate human trafficking. Those relegated to what we call Tier 3egregious violatorsare subject to sanctions.  \r\nIn 2019, President Trump signed my fifth comprehensive anti-human trafficking bill into law The Frederick Douglass Trafficking Victims Prevention and Protection Act- which for the first time ever authorized federal grants to local educational agencies to educate school staff to recognize and respond to signs of sex and labor trafficking and provide age-appropriate information to students on how to avoid becoming victims.\r\nAccording to the International Labor Organization (ILO) one in four trafficking victims are children and more than 40 million individuals of all ages are living in slavery worldwide.\r\nSome of today's challenges, such as how ever-evolving technology is being utilized by predators to lure children into trafficking, could not have been anticipated 20 years ago\r\nToday, due to COVID-19 restrictions, young people are spending more time online and evidence suggests a huge spike in predators' access to children on the internet and the rise of online grooming and sexual exploitation while children are isolated and virtually connected to the world.  \r\n\r\nAs reported by the Asbury Park Press, there is a huge surge in reports about online child exploitationup 75 percent in New Jersey alonewhich can lead to human trafficking and other abuses.  \r\n\r\nECPAT-USA, the first U.S.-based nonprofit to work on the issue of commercial sexual exploitation of children, has been especially focused on the safety of children during the pandemic believing safety means more than handwashing and has created online safety guidelines for youth, parents and educators.\r\nTwenty years after the TVPA became law, the nefarious trade in women and childrenmodern-day slaveryhas become more visible and a more urgent priority for law enforcement on all levels.  \r\n\r\nMuch remains to be done to protect victims, prosecute traffickers and prevent human trafficking.  \r\n\r\nThis Op-Ed, penned by US Congressman Chris Smith, was published in the Oct. 30, 2020 edition of the Trentonian on page 16, and can be found online at:\r\nhttps://www.trentonian.com/opinion/guest-oped-smith-s-historic-anti-trafficking-law-marks-20th-year/article_560ab302-19fc-11eb-b28e-1f8df4cca38c.html", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409038", "<span class =\"kicker\">Rep. Smith on NJ101.5 FM</span>Fighting to protect the victims--mostly woman and children-- of human trafficking", "2020-10-30", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "Senate", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WKXW 10/30/2020 8:11:59 AM: \r\nCongressman Chris Smith (NJ-04) was a live call-in guest on NJ101.5 today with host Bill Spadea. The following are excerpts of the show:Spadea: Please welcome myfriend Congressman Chris Smith back to the show... and he has some good news to share... Actually  this week marked the 20th anniversary of something that Congressman Smith championed, it is the victimsof trafficking and violence protection act's 20thanniversary. This was designed to combat traffickingand fight against violence against women, and Chris Smith was the author and has been anoutspoken advocate... he's out doing his job focusing onconstituent service. Morning Chris, how are you? Smith: Morning, Bill, and thanks for having me on, appreciate it it. Spadea: So tell me about this bill and the realproblem human trafficking that is still going on in theworld... . Smith: Oh, without a doubt. It's still growing. It's a hugeproblem in New Jersey, throughout the rest of the country. And part ofthat is that during COVID-19 that's gottenworse for young kids who are online, and predators are trying to groom them to send inpictures of themselves and that leads to a whole horrible outcome. So parents need to be veryaware of that and monitor very, very aggressively the use of phones, as wellas the use of internetwith so many children and with so many predators trying tofind those kids to exploit them. So the Trafficking Victims Protection Act and the Reauthorization of the Violence Against Women Act, all of which were my law.  It was 20 years ago this past Wednesday, just a coupledays ago. It empowers a whole-of-governmentapproach. The prosecutors nowcan bring charges... they're prioritized. And there have been thousands of prosecutions, successful ones, that have putthose whomcommit these heinous crimes behind bars for longperiods of time. That [Keith] Ranier, the man that was partof the that horrible cult in NY just got 120 years and they used my law to prosecute him.  Spadea: That's good. Smith: So, it really makes a difference. And then, Bill, we call it the three \"Ps\" ...a Prosecution of traffickers, Protection of the victims, which are primarily womenand children, and then Prevention strategies. Andmy most recent law just signed by President Trumpnamed after Fredrick Douglas... that one has come up with some very good curriculum for our students to make them situationally aware, so they are not lured into this terrible, nefarious international trade where women are turned into commodities for sale. So it's made a difference, both domestically and internationally. And it's right here, gangs and organized crime are the two principle drivers behind it... having met so many trafficking victims. A matter of fact, in the 1990s when I had a whole series of hearings I had women who had been trafficked tell their stories . I'll tell you, the pain and the agony of in their voices and in their eyes and in their hearts helped me get the bill passed. Because a lot of people didn't want to do it. They were either indifferent or they thought it was a solution in search of a problem, or they simply just said 'ah, let's do other things.' So it took a while to get this law signed. Spadea: Yeah, but you did it, you got it done. And you've been a tireless champion for those without a voice at so many levels in government. Smith: And Bill, just one quick thing. If people see something that doesn't look right, almost like with the mantra that we have with terrorism: 'if it doesn't look right, make a call,' call local law enforcement and let them know \"Hey, this is going on, I think there might be something going where women are being forced into this horrible trade. It's modern reality slavery. Spadea: It's a reality. it's areality. Smith: We can stop it. Spadea: Thank you, thank you, Chris for your leadership. You take care. All right that was Congressman Chris Smith represents the 4th District New Jersey... . Spadea: I want tothank my yeah my friend congressman Chris Smith forcoming in. Yeah, he mentioned that one of his one ofhis bills protecting women and children is namedafter Fredrick Douglas. Fredrick Douglas is one ofthe greatfigures in American history. Thisis a man who escaped slavery in Maryland becamea national leader of the abolitionist movement. Hishistory goes back to being a young kid, learning howto read and then teaching other slaves, had read the Bible and one his great quotes I quote oftenis 'it is easier to build strong children than torepair broken men,' and I think it's especiallyimportant to understand that quote today... . The above are excerpts from the broadcast which aired live Oct. 30, 2020.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://vandrew.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-van-drew-strongly-opposes-governor-murphy-s-plan-release-criminals", "Congressman Van Drew Strongly Opposes Governor Murphy\u2019s Plan to Release Criminals Early", "2020-10-30", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "House", "NJ", "Jefferson Van Drew", "V000133", "vandrew.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "MAYS LANDING- Today, Congressman Van Drew condemned the plan by Governor Phil Murphy to release thousands of prisoners early into South Jersey starting the day after the election. Cumberland county in South Jersey is home to several state prisons and would be disproportionately impacted by this move.\nGovernor Phil Murphy's dangerous plan to release thousands of violent criminals onto South Jersey's streets the day after the Election citing Coronavirus concerns is ridiculous and reprehensible, said United States Congressman Jeff Van Drew. Cumberland County is home to several state prisons so South Jersey would once again bear the brunt of the Governor's latest executive decision just like we did when he shut down thousands of local businesses, failed to get our hard working middle class families the Unemployment benefits they desperately needed, and mismanaged the reopening of the Motor Vehicle Commission.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409030", "<span class =\"kicker\">Asbury Park Press Op-Ed on the anniversary of Smith's landmark human trafficking law</span>'COVID-19 puts more children at risk of exploitation as anti-trafficking law hits 20 | Smith'", "2020-10-28", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "Senate", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Today  Oct.28  marks 20th anniversary of theTrafficking Victims Protection Act (TVPA) of 2000 the comprehensive, historic law that I authored to aggressively combat sex and labor trafficking both within the United States and around the world. The TVPA created a new, well-fundedwhole-of-government domesticand international strategy and established numerous new programs to protect victims, prosecute traffickers and, to the extent possible, prevent human trafficking in the first place.\r\nThe TVPAincluded a number of sea change criminal code reforms including treating as a victim  and not a perpetrator of a crime  anyone exploited by a commercial sex act who had not attained the age of 18 and anyone older where there was an element of force, fraud or coercion.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nThe TVPA radically reformed the US criminal code to authorize asset confiscation and jail sentences of up to life imprisonment for the predators.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nMost importantly, because of the TVPA, many victims have been rescued and protected while comprehensive prevention strategies have spared many from the exploitation and abuse of the crime that treats mostly women and children as mere commodities to be bought and sold. Of significance, my law also included the Campus Sex Crimes Prevention Act, the Battered Immigrant Women Protection Act and reauthorized theViolence Against Women Act(VAWA)  doubling VAWA funding to $3.3 billion over five years for women's shelters, rehab programs, housing and other initiatives for battered and abused women.\r\nOver the years, I've authored four additional laws to combat human trafficking including in2003,2005,2016and2019. \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n2017 investigation:NJ police help FBI operation that saved 84 kids from sex trafficking\r\nBelieving that federal law needed parallel state and local statues to effectuate an effective prosecution strategy to combat human trafficking, the TVPA included new DOJ programs to assist states in crafting laws and authorized the creation of new anti-human trafficking task forces.\r\nIn like manner, the TVPA provides law reform and best-practice technical assistance to other countries.\r\nThe Act also included sheltering and anational hotlineand on the refugee side, created a new asylum category  theT visa to protect victims and their families.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nAmong its many other provisions, the Trafficking Victims Protection Act also created the president's Interagency Task Force to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons theU.S. State Department's Office to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons and annual TIP report with its tier grading of every nation's record in making serious and sustained efforts to eliminate human trafficking.Those relegated to what we call Tier 3  egregious violators  are subject to sanctions.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nIn 2019, President Trump signed my fifth comprehensive anti-human trafficking bill into law The Frederick Douglass Trafficking Victims Prevention and Protection Actwhich for the first time ever authorized federal grants to local educational agencies to educate school staff to recognize and respond to signs of sex and labor trafficking and provide age-appropriate information to students on how to avoid becoming victims.\r\nAccording to the International Labor Organization one in four trafficking victims are children and more than 40 million individuals of all ages are living in slavery worldwide.\r\nSome of today's challenges, such as how ever-evolving technology is being utilized by predators to lure children into trafficking, could not have been anticipated 20 years ago\r\nToday, due to COVID-19 restrictions, young people are spending more time online and evidence suggests a huge spike in predators' access to children on the internet and the rise of online grooming and sexual exploitation while children are isolated and virtually connected to the world.\r\n'Rescued from this evil':179 arrested, 45 missing children recovered in Ohio's 'Operation Autumn Hope'\r\nAs reported by theAsbury Park Press, there is a huge surge in reports about online child exploitation  up 75% in New Jersey alone  which can lead to human trafficking and other abuses.\r\nECPAT-USA, the first U.S.-based nonprofit to work on the issue of commercial sexual exploitation of children, has been especially focused on the safety of children during the pandemic believing safety means more than handwashing and has created online safety guidelines foryouth, parents and educators.\r\n\r\n\r\nTwenty years after the TVPA became law, the nefarious trade in women and children  modern-day slavery  has become more visible and a more urgent priority for law enforcement on all levels.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nMuch remains to be done to protect victims, prosecute traffickers and prevent human trafficking.\r\nU.S. Rep. Chris Smith, R-NJ, 4th District\r\nThis article was published in the print edition of the Asbury Park Press on Oct. 28, 2020 and can be found online at:\r\nhttps://www.app.com/story/opinion/columnists/2020/10/28/covid-19-puts-more-children-risk-exploitation-smith/6046789002/", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409028", "<span class =\"kicker\">COVID-19 puts more children at risk of exploitation</span>Smiths historic anti-trafficking victims law marks 20th year", "2020-10-27", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "Senate", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "October 28th marks 20th anniversary of the Trafficking Victims Protection Act (TVPA) of 2000the comprehensive, historic law authored by Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) to aggressively combat sex and labor trafficking both within the United States and around the world.\r\n The TVPA created a new, well-funded whole-of-government domestic and international strategy and established numerous new programs to Protect victims, Prosecute traffickers and to the extent possible, Prevent human trafficking in the first place.  \r\n\r\n Thousands of human traffickers have been prosecuted and jailed pursuant to the TVPA including all charges in 2019 against Jeffrey Epstein and the infamous sex trafficking ring convictions involving NXIVM's Keith Raniere and Smallville actress Allison Mack.  \r\n\r\n According to Smith the TVPA included a number of sea change criminal code reforms including treating as a victimand not a perpetrator of a crimeanyone exploited by a commercial sex act who had not attained the age of 18 and anyone older where there was an element of force, fraud or coercion.\r\n The TVPA radically reformed the U.S. criminal code to authorize asset confiscation and jail sentences of up to life imprisonment for the predators.\r\n Smith said that because of the TVPA, many victims have been rescued and protected while comprehensive prevention strategies have spared many from the exploitation and abuse of the crime that treats women and children as mere commodities to be bought and sold.\r\n Of significance, Smith's law also included the Campus Sex Crimes Prevention Act, the Battered Immigrant Women Protection Act and reauthorized the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA)doubling VAWA funding to $3.3 billion over five years for women's shelters, rehab programs, housing and other initiatives for battered and abused women.  \r\n\r\n Over the years, Smith authored four additional laws to combat human traffickingincluding in 2003, 2005, 2016, and 2019. \r\n Believing that federal law needed parallel state and local statues to foster an effective prosecution strategy to combat human trafficking, the TVPA included new DOJ programs to assist states in crafting laws and authorized the creation of new anti-human trafficking task forces.\r\n In like manner, the TVPA provides law reform and best-practice technical assistance to other countries.\r\n The Act also included sheltering and a national hotline, and on the refugee side, created a new asylum categorythe T visato protect victims and their families.\r\n Among its many other provisions, the Trafficking Victims Protection Act also created the President's Interagency Task Force to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons, the U.S. State Department's Office to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons and annual TIP reports with its tier grading of every nation's record in making serious and sustained efforts to eliminate human trafficking. Those relegated to what is called Tier 3egregious violatorsare subject to sanctions.\r\n In 2019, President Trump signed Smith's fifth comprehensive anti-human trafficking bill into law The Frederick Douglass Trafficking Victims Prevention and Protection Actwhich for the first time ever authorized federal grants to local educational agencies to educate school staff to recognize and respond to signs of sex and labor trafficking and provide age-appropriate information to students on how to avoid becoming victims.\r\n According to the International Labor Organization (ILO) one in four trafficking victims are children and more than 40 million individuals of all ages are living in slavery worldwide.  \r\n\r\n Smith noted that some of today's challenges, such as how ever-evolving technology is being utilized by predators to lure children into trafficking, could not have been anticipated 20 years ago  \r\n\r\n Smith noted that due to COVID-19 restrictions, young people are spending more time online and evidence suggests a huge spike in predators' access to children on the internet and the rise of online grooming and sexual exploitation while children are isolated and virtually'connected to the world.\"  \r\n\r\n As reported by the Asbury Park Press, there is a huge surge in reports about online child exploitationup 75 percent in New Jersey alonewhich can lead to human trafficking and other abuses.\r\n ECPAT-USA, the first U.S.-based nonprofit to work on the issue of commercial sexual exploitation of children, has been especially focused on the safety of children during the pandemic believing safety means more than handwashing and has created online safety guidelines for youth, parents and educators.\r\n Smith added, Twenty years after the TVPA became law, the nefarious trade in women and childrenmodern-day slaveryhas become more visible and a more urgent priority for law enforcement on all levels.\r\n Much remains to be done to protect victims, prosecute traffickers and prevent human trafficking, he said.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409026", "Smith co-sponsors bipartisan bill to help struggling health & fitness industry", "2020-10-23", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "Senate", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Health and fitness centers trying to survive the COVID-19 pandemic that has devastated their industry could qualify for federal grants under HR 8485, the Health and Fitness Recovery Act of 2020, a new bill cosponsored by Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ).\r\n\r\n    \r\n        \r\n            \r\n        \r\n    \r\n\r\n The wellness and fitness industry has been especially hard hit by the global pandemic caused by COVID-19, Smith said. Gyms and fitness facilities were ordered to shut down completely in March when stay-at-home orders began, and have only recently been able to reopen in New Jersey upon meeting strict criteria regarding air circulation and ventilation, frequent sanitization of all surfaces and equipment, and temperature and health checks for staff and clients. If these health and fitness businesses are forced to permanently close, their workers lose their jobs and the clients they serve will find it more difficult to maintain their physical, as well as mental, healthsomething that's so important to overall wellness. Both need to be paramount concerns as we continue to battle the ongoing public health emergency.\r\nPHOTO: Rep. Smith and Kevin McHugh, CEO of the Atlantic Club in Wall Township, discuss the devastating impact of COVID-19 on the health and fitness center.\r\n The bill, introduced this month by Reps. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA) and Mike Quigley (D-IL), is a top priority for the International Health, Racquet &amp; Sportsclub Association (IHRSA). The Health and Fitness Recovery Act of 2020 would create a $30 billion recovery fund for gyms and health clubs, many of which are small businesses with an average of seven workers in an industry estimated to have employed over 700,000 in 2019. While some health clubs were able to qualify for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), many will face closure or bankruptcy unless Congress either authorizes a second round of PPP loans or passes HR 8485.\r\n Recipients of these grantswhich are capped at an actual business loss up to 10 percent of previous year's revenuewould be able to use the funds on payroll, rent or mortgage payment, personal protective equipment (PPE), or upgrades to their facility to comply with new requirements from the state or locality.\r\n Smith visited The Atlantic Club in Wall in September and saw firsthand the upgrades and lengthy efforts club owners and management have made to keep their staff and members.\r\n As of today, the bill had five bipartisan cosponsors with more expected to be added.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409025", "<span class =\"kicker\">Asbury Park Press Oct. 25 article on Smith announcement</span>'Whiting, Joint Base to be protected from wildfires by five-mile firebreak'", "2020-10-22", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "Senate", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "By Amanda Oglesby, STAFF WRITER  \r\nMore wildfire protection is coming to the Roosevelt City section of Whiting, along the densely forested western side ofManchester, due to a$380,000 project by the U.S.Department of Defense.\r\nThe project will build a five-mile long firebreak, or stretch of land cleared of vegetation,in the forest between the Roosevelt City neighborhood and Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, said U.S. Rep. Chris Smith R-N.J., whose Fourth Congressional District includes Manchester.\r\nWhiting lies within the Pine Barrens, where dry, sandy soils and dense underbrush contribute to the region being one of the most fire-prone on the East Coast.\r\n\"This project protects America's only Army-Navy-Air Force joint base  the second largest employer in New Jersey  and the missions it performs,\" Smith said in a news release.\"More importantly, it also protects the residents of Whiting. There are many homes and businesses concentrated in Whiting which will be better protected through this project.\"\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nThe funding is part of $1.9 million in Department of Defense spending in New Jersey for \"Readiness and Environmental Protection Integration.\" Other projects funded by the program are:\r\n \r\n    $500,000 for shoreline protection that will fund an oyster castle groin in Barnegat Bay near Island Beach State Park;\r\n    $500,000 for storm surge protection atNaval Weapons Station Earlein Middletown;\r\n    More than $100,000 for storm surge protection in Keansburg, near Earle;\r\n    $300,000 to protect forests fromwildfire around the New Jersey National Guard Warren Grove Gunnery Range. In 2007, afire that started at the range consumedmore than 17,000 acres of forest anddestroyed five homesin Barnegat;\r\n    $150,000 in storm water management infrastructure around the Lockheed Martin plant in Burlington County that producesAEGIS technology for the U.S. Navy.\r\n \r\nPHOTOS ABOVE: To view a photo slide show of a 2019 wildfire that burned areas of Ocean and Burlington counties, click here, or on image above. Manchester Mayor Ken Palmer said in a statement that he welcomed the added fire protection for Whiting, the township's most heavily wooded neighborhood.\r\n Earlier:Whiting brush fire consumes 99 acres\r\n\"Certainly, any safety measure to assist in this area is appreciated and extremely useful,\" he said.\r\nRoughly 7,000 acres of forest burn each year in New Jersey due to wildfire, according to the stateForest Fire Service.\r\nAmanda Oglesby is an Ocean County native who covers Brick, Barnegat and Lacey townships as well as the environment. She has worked for the Press for more than a decade.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409012", "<span class =\"kicker\">6 NJ sites to get $1.9M in DoD funds for conservation work near bases</span>Firebreak near Jt. Base MDL would protect Whiting from wildfires; Other projects at Earle, Warren Grove", "2020-10-20", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "Senate", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Residents of the Whiting community in Manchester Township south of Joint-Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst(JB-MDL)will receive added protection from the threat of wildfires because of new federal funding, said Rep. Chris Smith (NJ-04).\r\n The Department of Defense will provide funding to six projects in New Jersey (see list below) that promote land conservation near military sites, including $380,000 for afirebreakproject to be built near the Roosevelt City section of Whiting. The firebreak will simultaneously protect the military mission of JB-MDL.  \r\n\r\n\r\n    \r\n        \r\n            \r\n        \r\n    \r\n\r\n This modest but important federal funding will go a long way toward protecting areas near our military bases that are susceptible to forest fires, Smith said. According to the NJ Forest Fire Service, more than 7,000 acres a year are consumed by an average of 1,500 wildfires in New Jersey, the most densely populated State in the union.The firebreak project will be in Manchester Township, home tonearly 44,000 peopleand many senior retirement communities, he said.  \r\n\r\nPHOTO: Much of the 65-square mile Joint Base-MDL consists of forests. (U.S. Army Photo by Staff Sgt. Shawn Morris, at JB-MDL, 2013)\r\n Manchester Township Mayor Ken Palmer said that he liked the idea of added fire protection for the Whiting section of the township.\r\n We welcome any effort to provide firebreaks in the most wooded portion of our town, Palmer said. Certainly, any safety measure to assist in this area is appreciated and extremely useful.\r\n Smith noted that the $380,000slated toward building a five-mile long firebreak near JB-MDL will protect people and property to the west of Whiting.\r\nThis area in Whiting is part of the New Jersey Pine Barrens is vulnerable to forest fires in the dry seasons or droughts, Smith said. This project protects America's only Army-Navy-Air Force joint basethe second largest employer in New Jerseyand the missions it performs. More importantly, it also protects the residents of Whiting. There are many homes and businesses concentrated in Whiting which will be better protected through this project.\r\n The DoD awarded the funds from its Readiness and Environmental Protection Integration (REPI) Program that promotes projects with local partners to collaborate in the preservation of compatible land uses near military installations, ranges and other strategic sites. REPI is designed to protect DoD assets and capabilities to maintain military readiness throughout the United States.\r\n Smith said Naval Weapons Station Earle, headquartered in the Fourth District he represents, has been a leader in seeking the REMI grant. Dennis Blazak, Community Plans and Liaison Officer at Earle, has pursued this competitive funding for several years.\r\n A total of $1,935,564.98 will be distributed to protect six military sites across 1.6 million acres in the Garden State that are threatened by development and encroachment which could impact the military mission:\r\n $500,000 for storm surge protectionfor Naval Weapons Station Earlein Middletown, Monmouth County;\r\n $500,000 for living shoreline protection in the form of a T-shaped oyster castle groin in Barnegat Bay, in Ocean County near Island Beach State Park.\r\n $380,000 for wildfire mitigation nearJoint Base MDLin Ocean/Burlington counties (Whiting project);\r\n $300,000 to protect 44,000 acres of forest area in the Greenwood State from wildfire near theNJ National Guard Warren Grove Gunnery Rangein Ocean/Burlington counties;\r\n $150,000 for Rancocas Creek Watershed stormwater management to protect the area near Lockheed Martin plant that producesAEGIS technology for the U.S. Navyin Burlington County, and;\r\n over $100,000 for storm surge protection near Earle, in Keansburg, Monmouth County.\r\n\r\n    \r\n        \r\n            \r\n        \r\n    \r\n\r\nPHOTO: Naval Weapons Station Earle sailors assist the NY/NJ Baykeepers install oyster castles in the waters off Earle's pier to establish a living shoreline at the entrance of Ware Creek (undated U.S. Navy file photo taken by Bill Addison)\r\n The projects are being done in conjunction with the lead partner, the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, as well as local authorities, and they will be augmented with state and local resources.  \r\n\r\n The competitive funding announced was part of a $17 million effort across the country to fund projects at a dozen locations. There is no required state or local match for the federal funding.  \r\n\r\n These projects which the DoD has identified will help make the bases safer should we face any upcoming rounds of base realignment and closure (BRAC), Smith said, who successfully led the fight to reverse the planned closure of Lakehurst Naval Air Engineering Station in 1995, as well as helped in other fights to save Fort Dix and McGuire AFB in the 1990s, later merged into the Joint Base in 2009. Earle is a critical base for the Navy and its logistical shipping, and protecting its mission is crucial to national security, and to the jobs of the men and women who work there.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://vandrew.house.gov/media/press-releases/smith-van-drew-introduce-covid-19-emergency-social-security-cost-living", "Smith, Van Drew introduce COVID-19 Emergency Social Security Cost-of-Living-Adjustment Increase Act", "2020-10-19", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "House", "NJ", "Jefferson Van Drew", "V000133", "vandrew.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON-New Jersey congressmen Chris Smith and Jeff Van Drew today introduced legislation to significantly increase the annual cost-of-living-adjustment (COLA) for Social Security recipients after it was announced earlier this week by the Social Security Administration that the COLA effective December 2020 is going to be 1.3 percent. The Smith-Van Drew proposal would increase the 2020 COLA to 3 percent in 2020, and no less than 3 percent more in 2021. With the average Social Security payment to individuals being $1,514 a month, or $18,168 annually, the announced SSA increase would only provide a $236 COLA for 2021. The Smith-Van Drew bill would increase the average COLA to $545 for both 2020 (retroactively) &amp; 2021, or an estimated $1,090, over two years.\n\"COVID-19 has not only disproportionately harmed senior citizenscausing death to many especially in nursing homesbut has devastated them economically as well, said Smith (NJ-04). HR 8600, theCOVID-19 Emergency Social Security Cost of Living Increase Act, is aimed at helping seniors and other Social Security recipients keep up with rising costs they experience in their daily lives, especially in health care, Smith said. The COLA announced this week does not reflect the costs seniors cope with every day. It is unfair, and theCOVID-19 Emergency Social Security Cost of Living IncreaseAct will help remedy that unfairness. Rep. Van Drew (NJ-02) said, The burden on South Jersey seniors from taxes, tolls and Coronavirus has been enormous. Social Security recipients need more assistance to ensure the promise made to them is kept; this legislation is a key part of that commitment and we will fight as hard we can to ensure it is enacted. The legislation would also reform the formula for calculating annual COLA increases by using a senior consumer price index (senior CPI) beginning in 2021. Social Security COLAs are currently based on the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W) which excludes items like taxes, such as state and federal income taxes, and does not accommodate the disproportionate impact of health costs on seniors. Smith's bill would provide a 3 percent increase retroactively for 2020 to address the COVID-19 impact, as well as at least a 3 percent increase in 2021. It would also permanently address the shortcoming of basing annual COLAs on the standard CPI-W in favor of a Senior CPI.\"", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409017", "<span class =\"kicker\">Smith, Van Drew introduce bill to raise 2020, 2021 COLA</span>COVID-19 Emergency Social Security Cost-of-Living-Adjustment Increase Act", "2020-10-16", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "Senate", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "New Jersey congressmen Chris Smith and Jeff Van Drew today introduced legislation to significantly increase the annual cost-of-living-adjustment (COLA) for Social Security recipients after it was announced earlier this week by the Social Security Administration that the COLA effective December 2020 is going to be 1.3 percent.\r\n The Smith-Van Drew proposal would increase the 2020 COLA to 3 percent in 2020, and no less than 3 percent more in 2021.  With the average Social Security payment to individuals being $1,514 a month, or $18,168 annually, the announced SSA increase would only provide a $236 COLA for 2021. The Smith-Van Drew bill would increase the average COLA to $545 for both 2020 (retroactively) &amp; 2021, or an estimated $1,090, over two years.  \r\n\r\n COVID-19 has not only disproportionately harmed senior citizenscausing death to many especially in nursing homesbut has devastated them economically as well, said Smith (NJ-04).\r\n HR 8600, theCOVID-19 Emergency Social Security Cost of Living Increase Act, is aimed at helping seniors and other Social Security recipients keep up with rising costs they experience in their daily lives, especially in health care, Smith said. The COLA announced this week does not reflect the costs seniors cope with every day. It is unfair, and theCOVID-19 Emergency Social Security Cost of Living IncreaseAct will help remedy that unfairness.\r\n Rep. Van Drew (NJ-02) said, The burden on South Jersey seniors from taxes, tolls and Coronavirus has been enormous. Social Security recipients need more assistance to ensure the promise made to them is kept; this legislation is a key part of that commitment and we will fight as hard we can to ensure it is enacted.\r\n The legislation would also reform the formula for calculating annual COLA increases by using a senior consumer price index (senior CPI) beginning in 2021.\r\n Social Security COLAs are currently based on the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W) which excludes items like taxes, such as state and federal income taxes, and does not accommodate the disproportionate impact of health costs on seniors. Smith's bill would provide a 3 percent increase retroactively for 2020 to address the COVID-19 impact, as well as at least a 3 percent increase in 2021. It would also permanently address the shortcoming of basing annual COLAs on the standard CPI-W  in favor of a Senior CPI.\r\n Ocean County Freeholder Director Joseph H. Vicari says a higher COLA is needed by seniors to pay for necessities such as food, shelter, utilities and medications.\r\n I am extremely thankful for the immediate response received from Congressman Smith as we struggle with ways to have the annual Cost of Living Adjustment for Social Security actually reflect the current state of the economy where prices are going up and financial help is not, said Vicari, who serves as Chairman to the Office of Senior Services. In Ocean County, where almost 200,000 senior citizens live, it's unconscionable to just except an increase of 1.3 percent in the 2021 Social Security benefits, he said. Social Security is not a hand-out. Our seniors have paid into this their entire working lives.     \r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409018", "<span class =\"kicker\">Asbury Park Press article/video</span>'Middletown mayor, U.S. Rep. Chris Smith announce CARES Act funding for small  businesses'", "2020-10-16", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "Senate", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "ByAlex N. Gecan, Asbury Park Press\r\n\r\n\r\nIf you run a small business in Middletown, the township may have $15,000 worth of good news for you.\r\nThe township will begin awarding grants of up to $15,000 for businesses with up to 50 employees through the newMiddletown Economic Relief Program, Mayor Tony Perry announced Thursday. The township has approximately $400,000 in grants, obtained through theCoronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, to distribute to local businesses impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. \"These are all businesses giving back to our community, making our community a better place  making Middletown a great place to live, work and raise a family,\" Perry said at a press event Thursday at the Fountain Ridge Plaza on Route 35.\r\n\"COVID has devastated everything we knew and know and has changed everything,\" U.S. Rep. Chris Smith, R-N.J., said at the press event. \"The question has always been, how do we get a bridge from where we were before COVID-19 to where we can thrive again?\"\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n  \r\n\r\nClick here to view photos of the event.\"Getting the PPP enabled us to reopen to do takeout,\" Cartier said. \"Without that, we wouldn't have been able to support ourselves ... it was a time when you really couldn't go to donors for help because people weren't working and it was a very unsure time.\"\r\nNo business:COVID-19 kills 'Shoppes at Middletown' development\r\nA virtual fundraiser in April helped lift the caf out of the lockdown doldrums, and morning dance parties on Zoom helped keep morale up, Cartier said.\r\nStill, \"It was a hard time,\" Cartier said. \"We had to retrain a lot of our employees.\"\r\nShati Sinclair, who runs a Code Ninjasfranchise, said without a grant he received from Monmouth County,he may have been out of business.Code Ninjas teaches children ages 7 through 14 how to write computer code.\r\n\"Once that came in, I was like 'Thank God,'\" he said. \"My cable bill was up to $600. The money came and it just went because all the bills were already there.\"\r\n\r\nSinclair said a grant like the ones announced Thursday could keep him going for two months.\r\nYour wallet:Middletown open space tax-hike question has bipartisan support\r\nMonmouth County Freeholder Director Tom Arnone also spoke at the press event, adding that the county has relief funds it is portioning out as well. Perry said that obtaining relief through the county would not prevent a business from applying for a grant through the township.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nSmith is up for reelection this year in New Jersey's 4th Congressional District,facing a challenge from novice DemocratStephanie Schmid. Like Perry and Arnone, who also spoke Thursday, Smith is a Republican.\r\nDetails for how to apply for the grantsare available on the township's website. The grants are available to township businesses regardless of whether the owners live in town.\r\n\r\n\r\nThis article was originally published by the Asbury Park Press on Oct. 16, 2020, and can be found online at:https://www.app.com/story/news/local/red-bank-middletown-area/middletown/2020/10/16/middletown-economic-relief-program/3654670001/?fbclid=IwAR25HKq-XNNWec8qHP8tamsox4Iq7la8axgUuPxKlQVkJZn0DAHkLKBvScc", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=408991", "<span class =\"kicker\">Examiner Page 1 article on vet housing Smith helped bring about</span>'Ground broken for veterans housing complex in Tinton Falls'", "2020-10-10", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "Senate", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Ground has been broken for the construction of the Gordon H. Mansfield Veterans Village in Tinton Falls, a four-story building with apartments that will be available to veterans of the armed forces at a range of low and moderate income levels.\r\nThe building will be run by the nonprofit organization Soldier On, according to a press release from the office of Congressman Chris Smith (R-NJ). Smith was a guest speaker at the Sept. 12 ceremony.\r\nAbout 50 people attended the groundbreaking ceremony held at Liberty Park just north of the 12-acre project site on Essex Road. Officials said $8 million in federal funding will help pay for construction. The remaining costs will be financed by the developer and the New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency, according to the press release.\r\nToday construction begins on Soldier On and WinnDevelopment's $23 million, 70 one-bedroom housing units, Smith said. Thank you Tinton Falls for welcoming the project.\r\nSmith praised Soldier On'sleaders, President Jack Downing and CEO Bruce Buckley, for what he called their tireless efforts to help veterans who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless.\r\nSoldier On, thanks to Jack Downing and Bruce Buckley, has created world class home ownership opportunities coupled with vital services for homeless veterans, and the impact has been enormous and life-changing, Smith said. For the first time in years, even decades, many veterans will finally have a decent place to live and hope and prosper.\r\nI am especially grateful to Freeholder Lillian Burry for her extraordinary dream of creating a Monmouth County homeless veterans housing initiative, and for her tenacity and skill in making it happen, Smith said.\r\nFor nearly a decade, Lillian has been the quarterback in the push to meet the compelling housing and service needs of homeless veterans and there have been many setbacks along the way, including an inability to secure space at Fort Monmouth, the congressman said.\r\nI have been proud to do my part in finding a Monmouth County home for Soldier On and I promise you I will continue to be an active supporter as it moves from design through construction to the day it opens its doors and welcomes its very first veteran home, Burry said.\r\nAccording to the U.S.Department of Veterans Affairs, in 2001 there were 294,840 homeless veterans on any given night, said Smith, whose 2001 law for homeless veterans first authorized funding for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development-Veteran Affairs Supported Housing program.\r\nAlmost 20 years later, that number has dropped to 37,085. Progress, but still far too many, the congressman said.\r\nAmong its many provisions, Smith's law authorized, for the first time, a program which will be tapped as a major source of future rental assistance funding for veterans who will be living at the housing complex, according to the press release.\r\nSmith helped Solider On come to New Jersey in 2011, assisting the Massachusetts-based organization to obtain a $1 million grant in 2012 to help veterans in his district in Monmouth, Ocean and Burlington counties, plus Middlesex and parts of Mercer, according to the press release.\r\nThat work later expanded to serve nine counties, adding all of Mercer, Somerset, Bergen, Hudson and Essex.\r\nToday Soldier On also manages similar veterans housing operations in New York and Massachusetts, providing 177 homes, with another 152 in various stages of development, according to the press release.  \r\n\r\nThe above article ran on page 1 of the Examiner weekly newspaper in its Oct.7-14 edition that covers Allentown, Upper Freehold and Millstone. The story can be be read online by clicking here.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409013", "U.S. law enforcement must immediately end Chinese Communist Party (CCP) threats to Pastor Bob Fu, others", "2020-10-09", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "Senate", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "by Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ)\r\nOctober 9, 2020\r\nI am deeply concerned that since late September, Pastor Bob Fu, founder of the nonprofit ChinaAid, and his family have been the targets of outrageous slander, libel and intimidation by suspected members of the Chinese Communist Party, and their enablers, and are at grave risk of serious bodily harm. They have been forced to flee their home in Midland, Texas after protestors in chartered buses arrived at their home. Pastor Fu and his family are currently under police protection.  \r\n\r\nThe Chinese Communist Party (CCP) hates Pastor Bob Fuand other Chinese human rights activists living in the United States and elsewhere in the worldand are employing the big lie against Bob Fu in much the same way they do in China.\r\nI have known Pastor Bob Fu for twenty-two years.\r\nHe is an extraordinary man of deep faith in God who has tenaciously advocated for universally recognized human rights in China including and especially religious freedom.\r\nAs the former chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Human Rights Subcommittee as well as the chair of the Congressional-Executive China Commissionand now serving as Ranking Member on both those panelsI unequivocally attest to Pastor Fu's impeccable character, integrity, kindness and bravery.\r\nI have been a member of Congress for forty years and attest thatBob Fu is one of the most prayerful, dedicated, disciplined, wise and effective champions for human rights that I have ever met.\r\nAt my request and invitation, Pastor Fu gave expert testimony at thirteen separate official congressional hearings (see list below) I've chaired on the Chinese Communist Party's pervasive harassment and persecution of religious believers of all faiths. \r\nTogether, we have jointly appeared at press conferences and worked on Chinese human rights legislation.\r\nMembers of Congress on both sides of the aisle frequently turn to Pastor Fu for guidance, insight and direction.\r\nWhen in 2012, Chinese human rights leader Chen Guangcheng was in a Beijing hospital bed after being expelled from U.S. Embassy Beijing, Pastor Fu was a witness at my congressional hearing on Chen and was able to put Chen on the phone in real time. In a dramatic scene on Capitol Hill, Chen himself testified and asked to come to the United Statesa request that was agreed to by Beijing hours later.\r\nOwing to his exceptional success exposingand combatinghuman rights abuses in China, Bob Fu has been targeted in a vicious and dangerous campaign to smear his excellent reputation and work.\r\nThe FBI and CIA are investigating but much more needs to be done to protect this human rights hero and his family.\r\n_____________________________________________________________________________\r\n\"Pastor Fu gave expert testimony at thirteen separate official congressional hearings I've chaired\":\r\n1. China's War on Christianity and Other Religious Faiths\r\n2. Dissidents Who Have Suffered for Human Rights in China: A Look Back and A Look Forward\r\n3. Religion With Chinese Characteristics: Persecution and Control in Xi Jinping's China\r\n4. Protecting Religious Freedom: U.S. Efforts to Hold Accountable Countries of Particular Concern\r\n5. Their Daughters Appeal to Beijing: Let Our Fathers Go!\r\n6. Guo Feixiong and Freedom of Expression in China\r\n7. Chen Guangcheng and Gao Zhisheng: Human Rights in China\r\n8. Continued Human Rights Attacks on Families in China\r\n9. Chen Guangcheng: His Case, Cause, Family, and Those Who are Helping Him\r\n10. Recent Developments in History of the Chen Guangcheng Case\r\n11. The Case and Treatment of Prominent Human Rights Lawyer Gao Zhisheng\r\n12. One Year After the Nobel Peace Prize Award to Liu Xiaobo: Conditions for Political Prisoners and Prospects for Political Reform\r\n13. The UN Commission on Human Rights: Protector or Accomplice?", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409015", "<span class =\"kicker\">Washington Times Smith op-ed on missing Chinese bishop</span>'Chairman Xi, Where is Missing Bishop James Su Zhimin?'", "2020-10-09", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "Senate", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Thirty-six years ago this Oct. 8, Bishop James Su Zhimin was arrested by the Chinese government.\r\nHe was never to be seen publicly again. It's an appalling tactic and human rights violation the Chinese government inflicts on its citizens when it disappears a victim.  \r\n\r\nBut Chinese Communist Party (CCP) General Secretary Xi Jinping, the dictator of China, knows where the bishop is and what happened to him.  \r\n\r\nHaving met him in Beijing in 1994, I remain deeply concerned for the well being of BishopSu, leader of Baoding diocese, whom the bipartisan congressional Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission has recognized as a prisoner of conscience.  \r\n\r\n For Bishop Su's crimemerely expressing his universally-recognized human right of religious freedomhe has endured approximately four decades in prison.  \r\n\r\nA House hearing I chaired in July entitled \"Religious Freedom in China: The Case of Bishop James Su Zhimin\"featured witnesses from the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom, the Religious Freedom Institute and the Hudson Institute who testified about China's war on freedom of religion. I asked what many, including the Bishop's relatives, want to know from General Secretary Xi: where is Bishop Su?  \r\n\r\nBishop Su's imprisonment is reflective of greater oppression of religious freedom in Chinaincluding how it pertains to the Catholic Church.  \r\n\r\nMany wonder if the 2018 temporary agreement between the Holy See and the Chinese government is in fact in the interest of religious believers in China, and if the agreement ought to be renewed at all. In either case it has broader implications with respect to the ability of faith communities to maintain relative autonomy from the State.  \r\n\r\nThe bishop is either a living Saint, or felled martyr. If he is still alive, as I and his family greatly hope, then General Secretary Xi must release him to his family and his faithful flock.\r\n\r\n\r\n    \r\n        \r\n            \r\n        \r\n        \r\n            Washington Times originalgraphic by Linas Garsys for \r\n            Bishop Su October 9, 2020 Op-Ed by Rep. Chris Smith.\r\n            Click here or on image above to view original.\r\n        \r\n    \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nWhen I met Bishop Su in January 1994, he had already spent several years in prison unjustly for his faith, yet he had extraordinary gentleness, strength, courage and a peace that surpassed all understanding.  \r\n\r\nAfter celebrating Mass in a tiny apartment, Bishop Su told us he prayed for his persecutors and he especially prayed for the cruel and misguided CCP leaders.  \r\n\r\nHis faith under the weight of beatings, starvation and torture amazes and inspires.  \r\n\r\nSadly, Chinese authorities arrested Bishop SU before my delegation even left the country, holding him for nine days. In 1997, the government arrested him again, and the Bishop has not been seen since, except for a single time in 2003 when he was seen at a hospital in Baoding.  \r\n\r\nDespite his some 40 years in prison, the CCP refuses to say where they are keeping Bishop Su, and what they have done to him all these years.  \r\n\r\nThere is new concern that this good and holy man may have died or been killedas yet unconfirmedbecause Chinese authorities have recently asked the Vatican to appoint a new China-approved bishop to the Baoding Diocese.  \r\n\r\nBefore offering any replacement for Bishop Su, the Vatican and anyone who believes in religious freedom ought to insist on an answer to the question Where is Bishop Su?  \r\n\r\nIt cannot be forgotten that, despite solemn promises and existing treaty obligations, Xi in recent months has relentlessly trampled upon the freedoms of the people of Hong Kong.  \r\n\r\nNor can we forget Xi is today presiding over genocide against the Uyghur Muslims.  \r\n\r\nThe CCP under Xi Jinping is continuing and expanding the most comprehensive attempt to manipulate and controlor destroyreligious communities since Chairman Mao Zedong made the eradication of religion a goal of his brutal and bloody Cultural Revolutionin the 1960s.  \r\n\r\nNow Xi, apparently fearful of religious believers as a challenge to the Communist Party's stranglehold on power, is trying to radically transform religion into the Party's servant, furthering sinicization.  \r\n\r\n There have been reports of Xi's government rewriting religious textsincluding the Biblethat censor out passages not deemed acceptable by the atheist CCP, and in 2018 launching a five-year sinicization plan for Chinese Protestant Christians.  \r\n\r\n In mid-September, European leaders in Brussels pressed Xi on his brutal crackdown on Hong Kong citizens and his human rights abuses of China's minorities, as well as its blatantly unfair trade practices.  \r\n\r\nOf course, he once again brushed aside his government's long and tragic record of abusing the rights of its own citizens.  \r\n\r\nShortly thereafter, the U.S. State Department issued an official travelers' warning that The PRC government arbitrarily enforces local laws, including by carrying out arbitrary and wrongful detentions and through the use of exit bans on U.S. citizens and citizens of other countries without due process of law.  \r\n\r\nSuch flagrant abuse is not new for the Chinese government. There are many such instances, but the case of the long-missing Bishop Su is something which cannot be forgotten. His courage and faithfulness to God in the face of unspeakable abuse and inhuman cruelty inspires us to act with insight, decisiveness and prudence.  \r\n\r\n General Secretary Xi Jinping, please answer the question: where is Bishop Su and what have you done to him?  \r\n\r\nThe writer is a Republican congressman from New Jersey, and the Ranking House Member and former Chairman of the bipartisan Congressional-Executive Commission on China.9 This article was originally published in the Friday. Oct. 9, 2020 print edition of the Washington Times and can be found online at:\r\nhttps://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2020/oct/8/chairman-xi-where-is-missing-bishop-james-su-zhimi/", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://vandrew.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-van-drew-introduces-health-smart-air-travel-pilot-program", "Congressman Van Drew Introduces Health Smart Air Travel Pilot Program", "2020-10-05", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "House", "NJ", "Jefferson Van Drew", "V000133", "vandrew.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WASHINGTON- Today, Congressman Van Drew introduced the Health Smart Air Travel Act (HSAT), HR 8526. HSAT will stimulate development of new technologies that mitigate virus transmission in airports and passenger aircraft. Created in partnership with the Atlantic County Economic Alliance and the National Aviation Research and Technology Park, Congressman Van Drew's legislation would create growth opportunities for South Jersey's aviation sector and the William J. Hughes FAA Technical Center. Some potential examples of the technologies that could emerge from this legislation are:  Thermal detection cameras to identify at-risk individuals.  \n\t Ultraviolet light disinfection systems.  \n\t Advanced anti-viral HVAC filtration systems.  \n\t Touchless document and security screening procedures  \n\t Artificial-intelligence monitoring for social distancing and surface contamination. \"COVID-19 has changed how we must operate, and this legislation will produce the innovations we need to fight back against the Coronavirus, said Congressman Jeff Van Drew. As a member of the House Committee on Homeland Security's Subcommittee on Transportation and Maritime Security, it is my responsibility to help our country adapt to and overcome the threats that COVID-19 presents to air travel. Let's get America traveling safely again.\" Background:Congressman Van Drew collaborated with the Department of Transportation, the Federal Aviation Administration, the Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Disease Control, Department of Homeland Security, and the Transportation Security Administration to produce a technically refined piece of legislation. The bill directs the Secretary of Transportation to lead an interagency program to fund the development, testing, and evaluation of public health risk mitigation measures related to the public health risks presented by COVID-19 in airports and passenger aircraft.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=408999", "<span class =\"kicker\">TAP Into Hamilton/Robbinsville article</span>Rep. Chris Smith Bill Calls for Better Access to Public Land for Veterans' Treatment, Therapy", "2020-10-01", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "Senate", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "By TAPINTO HAMILTON/ROBBINSVILLE STAFF -  \r\nCongressman Chris Smith (NJ-4)hailed the recent passage of theAccelerating Veterans Recovery Outdoors Actthat wouldprovide increased access to federal lands for the purposes of veterans' medical therapy.\r\nAccording to the Department of Veterans Affairs' National Center for PTSD, between 11 and 20 percent of veterans who served in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom and 12 percent of those who served in Desert Storm have PTSD in a given year, and 30 percent of those who served in Vietnam will have had PTSD in their lifetime.\r\nResearch has increasingly shown that outdoor recreation can be an effective form of treatment, rehabilitation, and healing for veterans. While many nonprofit organizations, veteran service organizations, and private companies have used the outdoors to help heroes heal, providing greater coordination among key federal agencies will open new opportunities for veterans on public lands and other outdoor spaces,said Smith.\r\n\r\n    \r\n        \r\n            \r\n        \r\n    \r\n\r\nThe measure (H.R. 2435)has been endorsed by more than 120 veteran service organizations including the New Jersey VFW as well as outdoor recreation groups, and conservation organizations such as the New Jersey Sierra Club. Smith garnered broad bipartisan support in the House, with over 135 cosponsors.\r\nOur public lands are places for respite and healing, but for many veterans, those landscapes remain out of reach,said Rob Vessels, campaign manager of Sierra Club Military Outdoors. He added that this is \"an important first step in eliminating those barriers to access, so veterans can heal on the lands they swore an oath to protect.\"\r\nPHOTO: Congressman Chris Smith (Credit Elizabeth A. Myers) During the House floor vote on the measure,Smith recounted the story of a veteran suffering from PTSD, and his positive encounter with nature.\r\n\"By the time he was 20, Blake was suffering severe depression, anxiety and PTSD and he made three visits to VA psychiatric wards and a substance abuse rehab, Smith relayed. But. it was a backpacking trip led by the Sierra Club Military Outdoors that changed his entire perspective.\"  \r\n\r\n\"He (Blake) reports that in every Texas sunrise in the desert or a sunset next to an alpine lake, I found more beauty and serenity than I thought existed. I found camaraderie with my other veterans in sharing our stories on the trail. The darkness of what I had experienced couldn't compare to the light I saw in watching a trout swim in the Merced River with Half Dome looming nearby. And when the depression, anxiety and everything else that comes with PTSD creeps back into my life, I know just what dostrap on a pack and get outside!\" said Smith.\r\n The task force is empowered to:\r\n \r\n    Identify opportunities to formalize coordination between the Department of Veterans Affairs, public land agencies, and partner organizations regarding the use of public lands or other outdoor spaces for health and wellness for veterans;\r\n    Identify barriers that exist to providing veterans with opportunities for health and wellness through the use of outdoor recreation on public lands or other outdoor spaces;\r\n    Develop recommendations to better facilitate the use of public lands or other outdoor spaces for promoting wellness and facilitating the delivery of health care and therapy for veterans.\r\n \r\nThis article was posted at 9 p.m. Sunday Sept. 7, 2020 and can be found online at:\r\nhttps://www.tapinto.net/sections/government/articles/rep-chris-smith-calls-for-creation-of-public-land-for-veterans-treatment-therapy", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409003", "<span class =\"kicker\">Full Committee passed Smith's....</span>H.R. 8438Belarus Democracy, Human Rights, and Sovereignty Act of 2020", "2020-10-01", "2020", "2020-10", "Republican", "Senate", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Excerpts of remarks by Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) during markup of H.R. 8438  in the House Foreign Affairs Committee October 1, 2020:\r\n Belarus was perhaps the nation most mired in its Soviet past, with an inefficient economy and a strongman autocrat in charge for over two-and-a-half decades. Yet the irrepressible spirit of freedom stirred among the people of Belarus, and when a patently false election result was announced on August 9 declaring Alyaksandr Lukashenka the winner, the people took to the streets.\r\nMr. Chairman, it's been almost two months since the fraudulent poll, and the people of Belarusdespite Lukashenka's brutal crackdown in which he has arrested thousands, tortured hundredsare still organizing rallies of 100,000 people demanding that Lukashenka leave power, and leave Belarus to the people, to whom it belongs.\r\n According to the UN Special Rapporteur, more than 10,000 peaceful protestors have been detained as of September 18.\r\n\r\n    \r\n        \r\n            Rep. Smith calls for passage of his bill, H.R. 8438, at the Foreign Affairs Committee mark-up in October 2020.\r\n        \r\n    \r\n\r\n They need our help. \r\n Recent reports out of Belarus indicate that police are using increasingly violent tactics against these peaceful demonstrators. \r\n As my colleagues know, the leading opposition presidential candidate Sviatlana Tsikhanouskayawho likely won the electionformed the Coordination Council. \r\n Ms. Tsikhanouskaya ran a brilliant campaign but today is in exile in Lithuania where she continues to rally the Belarusian people and the world and demand human rights for all the people of her nation.\r\n Last night I read portions of the transcript of a hearing I chaired in 2011after another fraudulent election. Then, as now, and on many other occasions, Lukashenka's bullies beat, jailed and assaulted peaceful protestors.\r\n We must remain in solidarity with the great people of Belarusnot the oppressorsno matter what.\r\n The big mistake of the pastfatigue or lack of commitment and perseverance by the international communitycan't be repeated this time.\r\n On two separate occasions, I met with Lukashenka in Minsk and came away resolved to accelerate the struggle for democracy and freedom. \r\n My bipartisan bill, H.R. 8438the Belarus Democracy, Human Rights and Sovereignty Act of 2020updates, strengthens and expands the Belarus Democracy Acts of 2004, 2006, and 2011 that I also authored, and renews the personal economic and visa sanctions on an expanded list of actors in the Belarusian Government and Russian individuals complicit in the crackdown. \r\n Among its many provisions:\r\n It calls for new elections. \r\n It recognizes the Coordination Council as a legitimate institution to participate in a dialogue on a peaceful transition of power.\r\n It calls for the release of all political prisoners.\r\n It supports the aspirations of the people of Belarus to exercise their religious freedom.\r\n It authorizes assistance to promote democracy and civil society in Belarus.\r\n It unequivocally states that it is the policy of the United States not to recognize any incorporation of Belarus into a Union State' with Russia.\r\n It requires a U.S. strategy to promote broadcasting, internet freedom and access to information.\r\n In addition, it gives much needed support to the Belarusian media, and to the IT sector. \r\n Again, I ask our Committee members for their support.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409001", "<span class =\"kicker\">Smith authors bill</span>House Members Introduce Belarus Democracy and Human Rights Act of 2020", "2020-09-30", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "Senate", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "In response to the Alexander Lukashenka regime's violent crackdown and political repression following the fraudulent August 9, 2020 election, Congressman Chris Smith (R-NJ), a senior member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, Chairman Eliot L. Engel (D-NY), Ranking Member Michael McCaul (R-TX) Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (R-OH), Congressman Adam Kinzinger (R-IL), and Congressman William Keating (D-MA) introduced theBelarus Democracy, Human Rights, and Sovereignty Act of 2020. The Act would provide for the promotion of democracy, human rights and the rule of law in Belarus as well as support the aspirations of the Belarusian people to preserve the independence and sovereignty of their country in the face of the threat posed by Vladimir Putin's Russia.\r\n The world is recognizing what the strugglingbut courageouspeople of Belarus have been saying loud and clear since August 9 with their massive rallies: the recent election was fraudulent, and has no credibility with anyone save Lukashenka, and perhaps Russia, said Rep. Smith, who noted H.R. 8438 updates and reauthorizes his previous legislation enacted in 2004, 2006 and 2011 to advance and promote democracy and human rights in Belarus. This bipartisan bill renews sanctions on Belarusian Government officials who have obstructed the country's democratic transition. It gives much-needed support to the besieged Belarusian media, and to the IT sector. Some of the unlikely heroes of this struggle are Belarusian hackers, who have cracked Lukashenko's firewall, and have been able to broadcast truthful accounts to the Belarusian people of the news of the day. This bill also commissions several much-needed fact-finding efforts to get a better picture of the situation on the ground. The Belarusian people are fighting to preserve the independence and sovereignty of their country in the face of the threat posed by Vladimir Putin's Russia.  \r\n\r\n Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Engel said, Lukashenka has demonstrated time and time again that he is a brutal dictator interested only in the preservation of his own interests and maintaining his grip on power  no matter the cost. We continue to stand with the peaceful protestors in Belarus, who have turned out in historic numbers demanding a freer, more democratic nation and a free and fair election. With this legislation, the United States Congress once again sends the bipartisan message that the United States will not tolerate Lukashenka's brutality and illegitimate claims to power. The will of the Belarusian people must be respected, and I am proud to work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to send that message to Lukashenka, the people of Belarus, and the Russian dictator next door.  \r\n\r\n We stand with the historic numbers of peaceful Belarusian protesters that continue to flood the streets to demand a more democratic country. Their voices must be heard and the Belarusian authorities using violence, arbitrary detentions and repression in an attempt to stifle their calls to chart their own future must be held accountable, said House Foreign Affairs Committee Republican Leader Rep. McCaul. This Act sends an unmistakable message to the Belarusian dictator and his supporters in the Kremlin that the United States will neither accept Lukashenka's illegitimate rule nor allow Belarus' sovereignty to be handed over to Russia against the will of the Belarusian people.  \r\n\r\n Rep. Kaptur said, As a longtime supporter of liberty in Central and Eastern Europe, I am pleased to co-lead this bill to demonstrate resolute bipartisan support for the Belarusian people against the tyranny of the Lukashenko regime. This measure will provide for robust sanctions against human rights offenders, and hopefully pave a path toward new elections and peaceful transitions of power. I stand ready to work with my colleagues to boost U.S. assistance for Belarusian civil society through upcoming spending bills.  \r\n\r\n Rep. Kinzinger said, I'm proud to cosponsor this bipartisan legislation that formally condemns the fraudulent August election in Belarus and shows strong U.S. support for the sovereignty of the Belarusian people. We stand with the freedom-loving people around the world, especially those who are oppressed. Our legislation calls for the crackdown on peaceful demonstrators to end, for all those who have been unjustly detained to be released, and for a transparent and fair electoral process. With foreign assistance parameters and coordination with our European partners, our efforts here can help ensure the voices of the Belarusian people will be heard.  \r\n\r\n Rep. Keating said, I'm proud to join my colleagues in introducing this legislation to affirm our continued support for Belarusians working tirelessly towards democracy, said Congressman Bill Keating, Chairman of the Subcommittee on Europe, Eurasia, Energy, and the Environment. Their asks are simple. Belarusians want a government that is accountable to the people, that adheres to the rule of law, that respects their human rights, and that conducts itself in accordance with not just European, but global standards and norms. We must pass this legislation to show the Belarusian people that we hear their calls for democracy and justice, and that America stands beside them.\r\nBelarus Democracy, Human Rights, and Sovereignty Act of 2020:\r\n \r\n    Reauthorizes the 2004 Belarus Democracy Act for the third time following the fraudulent August 9, 2020 election and the Lukashenka regime's violent crackdown on the peaceful protests;\r\n    States that it is U.S. policy to \r\n \r\n      o reject the fraudulent August 9, 2020 Belarusian presidential election;\r\n      o refuse to recognize Lukashenka as the legitimately elected leader of Belarus; \r\n      o call for a new presidential election in Belarus that complies with OSCE standards;       o continue to call for the immediate release of all political prisoners in Belarus, including U.S. citizen Vitali Shkliarov and leading opposition figure Maryia Kalesnikava;\r\n      o refuse to recognize any incorporation of Belarus into a so-called Union State that is under the control of Russia;\r\n \r\n    Expands the list of Belarusian authorities who may be subject to U.S. sanctions beyond the country's senior leadership and security services to include those directly responsible for the crackdown on independent media; \r\n    Further strengthens the current human rights sanctions regime on Belarus to include Russian individuals complicit in the political repression in Belarus and the crackdown on independent media;\r\n    Authorizes U.S. assistance to promote democracy, human rights and the rule of law in Belarus and calls on the Administration to reevaluate and increase U.S. assistance to Belarus in light of the current political crisis;\r\n    Calls on the President to provide the United States Agency for Global Media with a surge capacity for its programs and activities in Belarus;\r\n    Requires a U.S. strategy to promote expanded broadcasting, internet freedom and access to information in Belarus;\r\n    Calls on the United States to continue to coordinate with the European Union, its member states, the United Kingdom and Canada to support the democratic aspirations of the Belarusian people and to deter Russia's attempts to undermine Belarus' sovereignty and independence; and\r\n    Requires the Secretary of State, in coordination with the Director of National Intelligence, to submit two reports to Congress on Russia's efforts to undermine Belarus' sovereignty and independence; and \r\n    the assets owned by Lukashenka.\r\n \r\n It is anticipated that the Belarus Democracy, Human Rights, and Sovereignty Act of 2020 will be marked up by the House Foreign Affairs Committee tomorrow, which would then allow the bill to move to the floor for a possible vote by the full House of Representatives.  \r\n\r\n###\r\nContacts:  \r\n\r\nSmith- Jeff Sagnip (202) 225-3765\r\nEngel-Contact: Tim Mulvey (202) 226-9103\r\nMcCaul- Leslie Shedd (202) 225-5021 \r\nKaptur- Griffin Anderson (202) 225-4146\r\nKinzinger-Maura Gillespie (202) 225-3635\r\nKeating  Lauren McDermott (202) 302-2783", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=409006", "<span class =\"kicker\">Selected for his human rights work...</span>Armenian-American group to present Smith w bipartisan 2020 Freedom Award", "2020-09-30", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "Senate", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "The Armenian National Committee of America Eastern Region (ANCA-ER) is set to honor US Representative Eliot Engel (D-NY) and Representative Christopher Smith (R-NJ) with the ANCA-ER Freedom Award at its virtual gala  Havak for Hai Tahd  on Thursday, October 15 at 8 pm EDT. The gala's program will take place onFacebook Live;the online giving platform can be found atwww.givergy.us/ancaer.\r\nThe ANCA Eastern Region Freedom Award is the highest honor the region bestows upon individuals who exhibit extraordinary courage and devotion to freedom and justice. It is presented annually at the regional gala to individuals who have made extraordinary contributions toward issues that concern Armenian-Americans. Representative Engel, who serves New York's 16thcongressional district and as Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee and Representative Smith, who serves NewJersey's 4thcongressional district, will be among an elite group of past recipients including Dr. Taner Akam; Congressman Jim McGovern (D-MA); former US Ambassador to Armenia John M. Evans; former US Ambassador to the United Nations Samantha Power; US Senator Robert Menendez; US Senators Robert Dole and Elizabeth Dole; Baroness Caroline Cox; and renowned lawyer Robert Morgenthau and the Morgenthau family.\r\nBoth Representatives Eliot Engel and Chris Smith are deserving of the Freedom Award as they have exhibited courage and leadership for the Armenian Cause during their decades-long time in office. They have not only advocated for the Armenian people in their own congressional districts, but for Armenian Americans nationwide. Whether it's their efforts to recognize the Armenian Genocide or concern for the safety and security of Armenia and Artsakh, they have shown their steadfast support. And unfortunately, now at a time when Armenians in Armenia and Artsakh need the voices of the world's leaders most, we are honored to have these two representatives supporting the Diaspora's initiatives to help their brothers and sisters in the homeland, said Lara Nercessian, ANCA Eastern Region Board Member.\r\nRep. Eliot Engel\r\nU.S. Representative Eliot Engel serves as the Chairman of the powerful House Foreign Affairs Committee. A longtime member of the Congressional Armenian Caucus and steadfast supporter of the Armenian American community, Representative Engel was born in Bronx, NY in 1947 and graduated from Hunter-Lehman College with a bachelor's degree in history. He later received his master's degree in guidance counseling from Herbert H. Lehman College of the City University of New York in 1973 and his law degree from New York Law School shortly thereafter.  \r\n\r\nChairman Engel has been a strong leader and true ally of the Armenian American community both in his district and in the region. His consistent support of the Armenian Cause is notable in his determination to make aid to Artsakh a priority. Whether it's his support of genocide education in schools or the recognition of the Armenian Genocide in the US House, he has illustrated his support and worked with members of the Armenian Diaspora for the decades he has served in the US House of Representatives.\r\nWhether in the halls of Congress or during his trip to Armenia, he's shown concern for the safety and security of the Armenian Nation through his support of funding for de-mining in Artsakh or bilateral tax treaties between Armenia and U.S. He co-authored the Royce-Engel Peace Proposal for a just resolution for the Republic of Artsakh  a proposal that included a cessation of cease-fire violations by Azerbaijani forces.\r\nLast year, Chairman Engel provided crucial testimony at the H.Res.296 proceedings for the Armenian Genocide Resolution. I'm sure the government of Turkey is not happy with [these plans], but then again we're not happy with the government of Turkey, Chairman Engel told NPR reporters in 2019.\r\nIn 2019 alone, he backed the Speier Amendment to the Foreign Aid Bill calling for $40 million in aid to Armenia, the Sherman Amendment to the NDAA against Azerbaijani threats to shoot down civilian aircraft and signed the Sherman-Cox letter to continue US aid for Artsakh de-mining.\r\nChairman Engel will step down from his role as a Representative in January 2021, but will live on to be one of the ANCA's most staunch supporters\r\nRep. Chris Smith\r\nUS Representative Chris Smith was elected to office in 1980 and is currently serving his twentieth term in the U.S. House of Representatives representing the 4thcongressional district of New Jersey. Representative Smith is a senior member on the Foreign Affairs Committee and is Ranking Member of its Africa, Global Health, Global Human Rights and International Organizations Subcommittee. In addition, he also serves as the Co-Chair of the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission  \r\n\r\nRepresentative Smith was born in Rahway, NJ in 1953. He graduated with a bachelor's degree in business administration from Trenton State College, now known as The College of New Jersey and spent a semester abroad at Worcester College in England.\r\nRepresentative Smith's achievements for the Armenian Cause are greatly appreciated  they include cosponsoring the Genocide Prevention Resolution, H.Res.220, and the Trott Amendment attaching H.Res.220 to the NDAA. Additionally, he cosponsored and voted for the Resolution condemning the Erdogan-ordered attacks against peaceful protestors on U.S. soil on May 16, 2017, H.Res.354, as well as the Azerbaijan Human Rights Resolution, H.Res.537.\r\nAs a member of the Congressional Caucus on Armenian issues, he has called on the Administration to recognize the Armenian Genocide, participated in Capitol Hill Commemorations for the Armenian Genocide and been a powerful voice for the Armenian American community.  \r\n\r\nThe region will also honor Sarkis Agasarkisian, Bearj Barsoumian and Stephen Hagopian with the prestigious ANCA-ER Vahan Cardashian Award, along with Michigan State Representative Mari Manoogian with the inaugural ANCA-ER One to Watch Award. The Eastern Region's summer interns Nairi Diratsouian and Garine Koushagjian and the ANCA Leo Sarkisian Internship Program interns Aram Harumi, Tatevik Khachatryan and Nicholas Krikorian will also be recognized. The above text is from an article posted on Sept. 30, 2020, and can be found online at:\r\nhttps://armenianweekly.com/2020/09/30/anca-er-announces-14th-annual-anca-er-freedom-award-recipients/", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=408994", "Smiths 2005 stem cell law to be reauthorized by House", "2020-09-29", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "Senate", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ)\r\nstatement during debate in the House of Representatives\r\non the Stem Cell Therapeutic and Research Act\r\nSeptember 29, 2020.\r\nMargaret Hahnmy mother-in-lawpassed away on Friday and a Mass of Christian burial will be held today at St. Mary Church in South Amboy, New Jersey. She was 96 and was deeply loved and will be deeply missed.  \r\n\r\n MargaretPegwas a great womanwife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. She selflessly devoted her life to public service including her amazing work as Sayreville Borough Clerk for twenty years. She had an incredible reputation for getting things done for the people. No matter who served as mayor or on Council, everyone knew she was the power.\r\n My wife Marie and I will join family and friends today at her funeral and internment making it impossible for me to speak today during the debate on the reauthorization of a law I originally authored fifteen years agothe Stem Cell Therapeutic and Research Act of 2005and the Stem Cell Therapeutic and Research Act of 2015. \r\n So, I submit these comments for the Congressional Record.\r\n\r\n    \r\n        \r\n            \r\n        \r\n    \r\n\r\n  Madam Speaker, today the House of Representatives will vote to reauthorize the Stem Cell Therapeutic and Research Act.\r\n This was an original idea of mine 20 years ago. Joined by 70 cosponsors, I introduced it in 2001 and again in 2003.\r\n After five long years of hard work and numerous setbacks, my bill was finally enacted into law in 2005.\r\n Beginning in 2001, Dr. Joanne Kurtzberg, who is President of the Cord Blood Association, helped draft my original law.Dr. Kurtzberg has said, Cord blood transplantation is now an established field with enormous potential. In the future, it may emerge as a source of cells for cellular therapies focused on tissue repair and regeneration.\r\nPHOTO: Rep. Smith calls for passage of his bill in 2005. ABA/NBA legend star Julius Dr. J Irving, at left, was a strong supporter of Smith's legislation.  The new law created a nationwide umbilical cord blood stem cell program, designed to collect, derive, type, and freeze cord blood units for transplantation into patients to mitigate and to even cure serious disease. Pursuant to the law, it also provided stem cells for research. The new cord blood program was combined in our 2005 law with an expanded bone marrow initiative, which was crafted over several years by our distinguished colleague, CongressmanBill Young.\r\nI was the prime sponsor again when it was reauthorized in 2015.\r\n Umbilical cord blood stem cells, obtained after the birth of a child, have proved highly efficacious in treating 70 diseases, including sickle-cell disease, lymphoma, and leukemia. And scientists are continuing to study and better understand the regenerative effects of cord blood cell therapies for other diseases and conditions. Bone marrow donations provide lifesaving transplants to treat diseases like blood cancer, sickle cell anemia, or inherited metabolic or immune system disorders.\r\n The National Cord Blood Inventory (NCBI) provides funding to public cord blood banks participating in the program to allow them to expand the national inventory of cord blood units available for transplant. These units are then listed on the registry by the Be the Match Program. The funds appropriated thus far have led to an important increase in the overall number of high-quality cord blood units available through the national registry, including 150,000 NCBI units. Within the Be the Match registry, there are more than 783,000 NCBI units worldwide.\r\n The Program registry allows patients and physicians to locate matching cord blood units, as well as adult donors for marrow and peripheral blood stem cells, when a family donor is not available. The Program is the world's largest, most diverse donor registry, with more than 22 million volunteers and more than 300,000 public cord blood units. To date, the National Marrow Donor Program/Be The Match (NMDP), through its operation of the Program, has facilitated more than 100,000 transplants. More than 45,000 patients have receivedcord bloodtransplants, according Dr. Joanne Kurtzberg.\r\n\r\n    \r\n        \r\n            \r\n        \r\n    \r\n\r\n The reauthorization before us authorizes $23 million to be appropriated for fiscal year 2021 through fiscal year 2025. It also authorizes $30 million to be appropriated for fiscal years 2021 through 2025 for the bone marrow transplant program. This continues funding at the same levels authorized in the 2015 authorization bill. \r\n Madam Speaker, each year nearly 4 million babies are born in America. In the past, virtually every placenta and umbilical cord was tossed as medical waste. Today, doctors have turned this medical waste into medical miracles.\r\n Not only has God in His wisdom and goodness created a placenta and umbilical cord to nurture and protect the precious life of an unborn child, but now we know that another gift awaits us immediately after birth. Something very special is left behind--cord blood that is teeming with lifesaving stem cells. Indeed, it remains one of the best kept secrets in America that umbilical cord blood stem cells and adult stem cells in general are curing people of a myriad of terrible conditions and diseases--over 70 diseases in adults as well as in children.\r\n The legislation that is before us will enable even more patients to receive the treatments that they so desperately need.\r\nPHOTO: President Bush signs Rep. Chris Smith's original Stem Cell Therapeutic and Research Act into law on Dec. 20, 2005.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://vandrew.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-van-drew-honors-vietnam-war-veteran", "Congressman Van Drew Honors Vietnam War Veteran", "2020-09-28", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "House", "NJ", "Jefferson Van Drew", "V000133", "vandrew.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "MAYS LANDING- Congressman Van Drew secured constituent, Petty Officer 1st class David Leininger's, medals from his time in the service in the United States Navy. Mr. Leininger served with distinction and honor in the United States Navy from the Korean War to the Vietnam War.\nCongressman Van Drew's office obtained numerous medals from the US Navy, even though the specific department is not fully operational due to COVID-19. Due to Mr. Leininger's declining health, Congressman Van Drew wanted to make sure he personally received his medals; which were presented in a frame built by fellow veteran Robert Brown. In attendance at the event was Mr. Leininger, his wife, family, the NJ State Commander for the VFW, officials from the VA outreach team, and the Legion Riders.\nThe medals that were presented included:\n \nBronze Star with Valor\n\tNavy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal\n\tMeritorious Unit Commendation\n\tNavy E Ribbon 2nd award\n\tNavy Good Conduct Medal\n\tRepublic of Vietnam Meritorious Unit Citation\n\tNational Defense Service Medal\n\tArmed Forces Expeditionary Medal Korea\n\tVietnam Service Medal\n \nMr. Leiningerhelping to track these hard-earned medals from your time in the service of this nation is the least I could do to support you, said Congressman Van Drew. Thank you for your service, we are all indebted to you and all that serve or have served in our armed forces.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=408998", "<span class =\"kicker\">MidJersey.News article</span>#WHATSMYNAME 5k Run/Walk Held In Robbinsville In Honor of Samantha Josephson", "2020-09-26", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "Senate", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "MidJersey.News article#WHATSMYNAME 5k Run/Walk Held In Robbinsville In Honor of Samantha Josephson \r\n   \r\n    \r\n       \r\n      \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      f \r\n      t \r\n      #\r\n      e\r\n      \r\n      \r\n    \r\n    \r\n      \r\n        ROBBINSVILLE, NJ,\r\n        Sep 26, 2020\r\n      \r\n       \r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n\r\n  \r\n\r\n  \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      \r\n      \r\n      \r\n\r\n\r\nHundreds turned out for the #WHATSMYNAME 5K Run/ 1M Walk in honor of, Samantha Josephson. The run/walk supports the What's My Name Foundation's efforts regarding Ride Share Safety education.\r\nThe 5K run kicked off a little after 9 am and the 1 mile walk started about the same time this morning.\r\nSamantha grew up in Robbinsville and was Robbinsville High School graduate and was attending University of South Carolina when a rideshare tragedy happened.\r\n\r\n    \r\n        \r\n            \r\n        \r\n    \r\n\r\n\r\nSydney, Seymour and Marci Josephson, with Rep. Chris Smith who has authored Sami's Law on a Federal level and has passed the House in July, at the run/walk this morning. (Dennis Symons photo)\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n  \r\nRelated recent MidJersey.News story here:Sami's Law Passes The House\r\n  \r\nOn March 29, 2019, Samantha Josephson, a 21 year-old seniorat the University of South Carolina, was kidnapped and murdered when she was targeted by a person posing as a ridesharedriver. Immediately following this unfathomable tragedy, Samantha's parents, Seymour and Marci Josephson, set out to educate otherson the importance of ride share safety so that no other family wouldhave to suffer this kind of loss. \r\nThe#WHATSMYNAMEFoundationwasestablished in honor of, Samantha Josephson.Our mission is to educate the world on ride share safety, supporting charitable organizations and providing college scholarships to selected high school seniors.Samantha may be gone but our goal for the rest of our time on earth is to share her story and make a lasting change.  \r\n\r\n\r\nBefore you get in a ride share ask\r\nWhat's my name? and remember hers.\r\n  \r\n\r\nSami's Law was authored by Rep. Chris Smith and passed the house in July by a unanimous read more about it here:Sami's Law Passes The House\r\n  \r\n\r\nLink to #WHATSMYNAME FOUNDATION HERE\r\nThis article was originally posted on the Mid Jersey News site on Sept. 26, 2020 and can be found at:\r\nhttps://midjersey.news/2020/09/26/whatsmyname-5k-run-walk-held-in-robbinsville-in-honor-of-samantha-josephson/\r\n  \r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      f \r\n      t \r\n      #\r\n      e", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=408996", "<span class =\"kicker\">VFW, Sierra Club praise Smith bill</span>Smith veterans legislation passes Housewould create new Task Force to promote use public lands for medical treatment & therapy to vets via outdoor recreation", "2020-09-23", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "Senate", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), author of the bipartisan Accelerating Veterans Recovery Outdoors Act (H.R. 2435) with lead Democrat co-sponsor Adam Smith of (D-WA), hailed the passage today of the bill which will provide increased access to federal lands for the purposes of veterans' medical therapy. \r\n Research has increasingly shown that outdoor recreation can be an effective form of treatment, rehabilitation, and healing for veterans. While many nonprofit organizations, veteran service organizations, and private companies have used the outdoors to help heroes heal, providing greater coordination among key federal agencies will open new opportunities for veterans on public lands and other outdoor spaces, said Chris Smith, author of the Veterans Health Programs Improvement Act (P.L. 108-422), and 13 other veterans laws. The legislation requires the Secretary of Veterans Affairs to establish an interagency task force on the use of public lands to provide medical treatment and therapy to veterans through outdoor recreation. After undertaking a comprehensive analysis, the task force will submit recommendations to Congress, within one year, on how to eliminate barriers and provide more public outdoor space for use by our veterans. Click here to watch Chris Smith's remarks on the House Floor.  \r\n\r\n Smith's bill was included in a package of veterans' legislationThe Veterans' COMPACT Act, (H.R. 8247)which passed in a unanimous voice vote. Rep. Adam Smith is chairman of the House Armed Services Committee. Rep. Chris Smith served two times as chair of the House Veterans' Affairs Committee.  \r\n\r\n\r\n    \r\n        \r\n            \r\n        \r\n    \r\n\r\n On the House floor today (PICTURED), Rep. Chris Smith thanked Sierra Club for its leadership, and his 130-plus colleagues who cosponsored his bill, including Adam Smith. He recounted the true story of a veteran suffering from PTSD, and his positive encounter with nature.  \r\n\r\n By the time he was 20, Blake was suffering severe depression, anxiety and PTSD and he made three visits to VA psychiatric wards and a substance abuse rehab, Smith said. But it was a backpacking trip led by the Sierra Club Military Outdoors that changed his entire perspective. He reports that in every Texas sunrise in the desert or a sunset next to an alpine lake, I found more beauty and serenity than I thought existed. I found camaraderie with my other veterans in sharing our stories on the trail. The darkness of what I had experienced couldn't compare to the light I saw in watching a trout swim in the Merced River with Half Dome looming nearby. And when the depression, anxiety and everything else that comes with PTSD creeps back into my life, I know just what dostrap on a pack and get outside!  \r\n\r\n H.R. 2435 has been endorsed by more than 120 veteran service organizations, outdoor recreation groups, and conservation organizations. Smith garnered broad bipartisan support in the House, with over 135 cosponsors.  \r\n\r\n Said New Jersey VFW State Legislative Director William F. Thomson, Congratulations to Chris Smith on another important piece of veteran legislation. Congressman Smith has been a three-time recipient of the New Jersey Veterans of Foreign Wars Legislator of the Year award and National Veterans of Foreign Wars Legislator of the Year award. He has always shown that veterans are important to him and our nations. He is one of the New Jersey Veterans best friends in Congress.  \r\n\r\n Said Jeff Tittel, Director of the New Jersey Sierra Club, For the people who have given their all for this country, we need to do all we can to help them. That includes access to National Parks and outdoor activities. The outdoors experience has restorative powers, whether you are hiking, mountain biking, camping, or communing with nature. It helps to inspire us and heals our body and spirit. Connecting with nature and being in the wilderness is a powerful part of healing, and the Accelerating Veterans Recovery Outdoors Act will help veterans access that power. My dad was a WWII veteran who was at the Bulge and many other battles. He was also a Sierra Club member for over 40 years. He became an avid hiker and outdoor person when he came back, which helped him deal with everything he went through. It also helped bond us together through an appreciation of nature.  \r\n\r\n Our public lands are places for respite and healing, but for many veterans, those landscapes remain out of reach, said Rob Vessels, campaign manager of Sierra Club Military Outdoors. Today's vote is an important first step in eliminating those barriers to access, so veterans can heal on the lands they swore an oath to protect. We thank Rep. Chris Smith and Rep. Adam Smith for their work on this critical issue.  \r\n\r\n The task force is empowered:  \r\n\r\n First, to identify opportunities to formalize coordination between the Department of Veterans Affairs, public land agencies, and partner organizations regarding the use of public lands or other outdoor spaces for health and wellness for veterans;  \r\n\r\n Second, to identify barriers that exist to providing veterans with opportunities for health and wellness through the use of outdoor recreation on public lands or other outdoor spaces;  \r\n\r\n And third, to develop recommendations to better facilitate the use of public lands or other outdoor spaces for promoting wellness and facilitating the delivery of health care and therapy for veterans.  \r\n\r\n According to the Department of Veterans Affairs' National Center for PTSD, between 11 and 20 percent of veterans who served in Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom and 12 percent of those who served in Desert Storm have PTSD in a given year, and 30 percent of those who served in Vietnam will have had PTSD in their lifetime.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=408992", "<span class =\"kicker\">Takes aim at Chinese Govt genocide against Muslims</span>House passes Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act", "2020-09-22", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "Senate", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), a senior member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee and ranking member of the Congressional Executive Commission on China, took to the House floor today during debate on the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act. Below are excerpts of his remarks:\r\n At a 2018 congressional hearing I cochaired, Mihrigul Tursun recounted her ordeal of torture, sexual abuse and detention in one of China's mass internment camps in Xinjiang, Smith said. She broke down weeping telling us that she pleaded with God to end her life.Her Chinese jailers restrained her to a table increased the electrical currents coursing through her body and mocked her belief in God.\r\n\r\n    \r\n        \r\n            \r\n        \r\n    \r\n\r\nAT LEFT: Smith cites the atrocities the Chinese government has done to Muslims. Click here or on image to watch.\r\n She was tortured simply for being an ethnic Uyghur and a Muslim in China.  \r\n\r\n  There are millions of stories like this waiting to be told about President Xi Jinping's genocide that include:\r\n \r\n    &gt; The mass internment of millions on a scale not seen since the Holocaust.\r\n    &gt; Children ripped from the warm embrace of their families to be indoctrinated in Communist ideology and forced to renounce their religion, culture, and language.\r\n    &gt; Rape and sexual abuse of women being held in internment camps. \r\n    &gt; Forced abortion and involuntary sterilization to prevent the birth of Uyghur childrena direct violation of Article II (d) of the UN Genocide Convention.\r\n    &gt; Forced labor on a massive scale that allows Chinese companies to profit from modern-day slavery.\r\n \r\n We cannot be silent. We must demand an end to these barbaric practices and accountability from the Chinese government. Chinese authorities initially denied the existence of mass internment camps and have tried to portray them as vocational training centers. The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) employed lies, censorship and economic coercion to stifle discussion of their crimes.  \r\n\r\n But documents obtained by the New York Times and the International Consortium of Investigative Journalists have exposed the brutality behind Beijing's plans to radically and coercively transform the culture and religion of ethnic Uyghurs, Kazakhs, and other Muslims in China. The leaked internal papers show detailed plans to intern between 1 million and 3 million Uyghurs in modern-day concentration camps--where they are subjected to severe human-rights abuses and Orwellian indoctrination efforts for those whose thinking has been infected.  \r\n\r\n At the same time, Beijing instituted plans to erase the influence of Islam in western Chinabulldozing mosques and shrines, severely throttling all religious practice, and forcing camp detainees to renounce their faith, Smith said.   \r\n\r\n Smith noted over the past year, the Trump Administration has matched strong rhetoric condemning abuses with actions to protect U.S. national security and punish Chinese authorities and corporations complicit in human rights crimes:\r\n \r\n    Since last October, the Commerce Department has placed over 40 Chinese companies and government entities on its Entity List, restricting exports because of their complicity in human rights abuses and enabling high tech surveillance. \r\n    In July, the Treasury Department issued Global Magnitsky sanctions on six senior Chinese officials, including Politburo member Chen Quanguo.\r\n    The Treasury Department also placed financial sanctions on the Xinjiang Production Construction Corpsa paramilitary organization that reports directly to the Communist Party and controls vast interests in agriculture, mining, and manufacturing.\r\n    This summer, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection banned eight Chinese companies from importing textiles, hair, and electronic parts from Xinjiang.\r\n \r\n The Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act prohibits imports from Xinjiang to the U.S. by creating a rebuttable presumption' that all goods produced in the region are made with forced labor unless U.S. Customs and Border Protection certifies by clear and convincing evidence' that goods were not produced with forced labor, Smith said.  \r\n\r\n The legislation, which passed 406-3, also:\r\n \r\n    Authorizes targeted sanctions on any person responsible for the labor trafficking of Uyghurs and other Muslim ethnic minorities;\r\n    \r\n    Protects U.S. investors and consumers by requiring financial disclosures from U.S. traded businesses about their engagement with Chinese companies and other entities engaged in serious human rights abuses in Xinjiang;\r\n    Directs the Secretary of State to determine whether forced labor or other crimes against Uyghurs constitute crimes against humanity or genocide, and requires a diplomatic strategy to address these issues; and\r\n    Requires a strategy report from the Forced Labor Enforcement Task Force and regular updates on the steps taken to enforce the import prohibition on forced labor made goods from Xinjiang.\r\n    \r\n \r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=408988", "<span class =\"kicker\">Trentonian article on Smith bill to help TWW</span>Congressman Chris Smith: Trenton Water Works needs to be lead free in 10 years''", "2020-09-20", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "Senate", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Trenton Water Works should be lead free in 10 years, argues Congressman Chris Smith of Hamilton Township.\r\nThe Republican lawmaker has introduced bipartisan legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives that would require large public water systems like TWW to replace all lead service lines within a decade.\r\nCongress must act on this critical legislation that's long overdue and can make drinking water safer for generations of Americans, Smith said in a press statement last month. People need to know the water from the kitchen tap they drink or cook with is clean and safe for themselves and their families. Lead service line replacement is needed to give them that peace of mind.  \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nDemocratic U.S. Rep. Henry Cuellar of Texas has co-sponsored the legislation, formally known as the Get the Lead Out Act or H.R. 7918, which has been referred to the House Committee on Energy and Commerce.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nNo community should have to worry that their drinking water is tainted with lead, Cuellar said in a press statement. Any amount of lead in drinking water can have serious developmental and health impacts for children.\r\nTrenton Water Works serves 225,000 people in the capital city and Ewing, Hamilton, Lawrence and Hopewell townships. The utility has a long history of documented shortcomings, including a record 13 violations in 2018.\r\nTrenton is under two administrative consent orders with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection requiring the city to make necessary improvements to the public water system, including the replacement of so-called LSL or lead service lines.\r\nDEP sued TWW earlier this year due to the city's failure to comply with the ACO mandates. A Superior Court judge, however, denied DEP's request for preliminary injunctive relief that would have required TWW to replace 7% of lead service lines annually.\r\nJeffrey Wagenbach, an attorney representing TWW, argued the city is working hard to improve the water utility's operations and maintenance.\r\nNew Jersey Deputy Attorney General Robert J. Kinney in court papers argued that Trenton's shortcomings in LSL replacements exposes residents' drinking water to potential lead contamination and therefore places residents of the affected communities at continued risk of irreparable harm.\r\nJudge Robert Lougy said he didn't endorse the city's failure to meet mandates of the consent orders but was confident city officials are not continuing to have reporting above the permissible levels of lead in the water.\r\nSmith, who is seeking re-election to a 21st term representing Central Jersey, introduced his Get the Lead Out Act in the U.S. House of Representatives on July 31.\r\nSmith wants to amend the federal Safe Drinking Water Act by increasing federal contributions to state revolving loan funds from $1.95 billion in fiscal year 2021 to $6.6 billion and authorizing another $6.6 billion to be appropriated in fiscal year 2022. These funds may be used to finance water infrastructure projects that either address the most serious risk to human health or are necessary to ensure compliance with the federal Safe Drinking Water Act.\r\nPublic water systems like TWW are eligible for federal EPA grants to help finance investments necessary for the public water system to comply with the requirements of the federal SDWA. The current law authorized $60 million in such appropriations to occur in each of the fiscal years 2017 through 2021. Smith, however, wants to bolster the federal grants to authorize $80 million in federal appropriations to public water systems and other eligible entities during fiscal years 2021 and 2022.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nSmith's bill, if enacted into law, would also authorize $10 million in appropriations for fiscal years 2021 and 2022 to help the administrator of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to enforce the mandates.  \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n  \r\nDownload PDF\r\nH.R. 7918 would require community water systems serving a population of 3,300 or more to submit a plan to the EPA on how it would inventory and replace all the lead service lines of the community water system, including the portions of such lead service lines that are owned by the community water system and any remaining portions of such lead service lines.\r\nThe plan would have to be developed and submitted within one year of Smith's bill becoming law, and then the public water system would have to replace its leaded pipes and fixtures within 10 years if not granted an extension to the statutory deadline.\r\nLead service lines are water pipes and metal fittings containing a significant quantity of lead, a toxic element harmful to the well-being of humans and animals.\r\nThe consumption of lead-contaminated drinking water may lead to adverse health effects, including reproductive problems in adults and lower IQ and hyperactivity for children, according to the EPA.\r\nA lead-free product is one that contains almost no traces of lead, if any at all.\r\nReplacing lead service lines with lead-free alternatives means the new fittings shall not contain more than 0.2% lead when used with respect to solder and flux and any presence of such lead shall have a weighted average not exceeding 0.25% of the toxic element when used with respect to the wetted surfaces of pipes, pipe fittings, plumbing fittings and fixtures, according to federal law.\r\nIf Smith's bill never becomes law, the City of Trenton appears to be taking steps on its own to improve TWW.\r\n\r\nMayor Reed Gusciora and U.S. Rep Chris Smith, right, toured Trenton Water Works facilities on Monday, Nov. 26, 2018. The Republican congressman has vowed to do everything in his power to help TWW. [Courtesy of Congressman Smith Office]\r\n\r\nOn Thursday, Trenton City Council voted 5-2 to approve $50 million in bonds that will help the city replace the Pennington Reservoir with a network of up to five storage tanks, along with thousands of antiquated meters throughout the distribution system.\r\nTrenton's governing body previously voted 5-2 to approve $25 million in bonds for lead service line replacements. City Council, however, still refuses to support a $33.5 million bond package that would finance improvements to the TWW water filtration plant.\r\nStaff writer Isaac Avilucea contributed to this report.\r\nThis article ran in the Sunday, Sept. 20, 2020 edition of the Trentonian newspaper, and can be found online at:\r\nhttps://www.trentonian.com/news/congressman-chris-smith-trenton-water-works-needs-to-be-lead-free-in-10-years/article_f1c8bb14-fade-11ea-98b3-93028b4a29e9.html", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=408990", "<span class =\"kicker\">Project benefits from Smith's 2001 homeless vets bill</span>'Veterans Village Construction Underway'", "2020-09-20", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "Senate", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "By Laura D.C. Kolnoski\r\n\r\nEarthmovers are clearing a 12-acre site as work commences on the Soldier On veterans residential community near Seabrook Village on Essex Road. That milestone was marked Saturday when local, county, state and federal officials gathered for a celebration of moving the $23 million facility closer to reality.\r\nAmong those in attendance were U.S. Rep. Chris Smith (R, NJ-4), State Sen. Vin Gopal (D, NJ-11), and former Tinton Falls mayor Gerald Turning and former borough council president Gary Baldwin, a retired U.S. Air Force captain, both instrumental in helping find a location for the facility and supporting it through approval processes.The ceremony took place off site in Liberty Park on West Park Avenue in lieu of a traditional groundbreaking, primarily due to a lack of access and parking at the construction site, said Monmouth County Freeholder Lillian G. Burry, who spearheaded the effort to create the permanent housing complex for homeless vets for over a decade.\r\nOfficially called the Gordon H. Mansfield Veterans Village in honor of a paralyzed Vietnam veteran who became deputy secretary of the Veterans Administration and helped open the first Soldier On community, the four-story structure will have 70 one-bedroom furnished units. Soldier On, a nationally recognized nonprofit organization with similar communities in Massachusetts and New York, works with Winn Development to arrange financing and engage in the construction aspect. Additional financing, secured over several years and multiple trips to Washington, D.C. and Trenton by Burry and project supporters, came from the federal Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency and the Federal Home Loan Bank of New York.\r\nAmenities will include a multipurpose community room, patio with grills, greenhouse and community garden, walking paths, communications technology and a Memorial Columbarium with an eternal flame where ashes of deceased residents can be interred. Support, therapeutic, wellness and life skills programs will be offered. Burry arranged for the county's assistance with transportation via its SCAT program. While most occupants will be male, less than one dozen will be female, officials said, housed in a separate section with its own entrance and elevator. Current estimates have the doors opening within 18 months.\r\n\r\nFrom left, U.S. Rep. Chris Smith, Soldier On CEO Bruce Buckley and Monmouth County Freeholder Lillian G. Burry surround a rendering of Tinton Falls' new homeless veterans facility, scheduled to open within 18 months.Courtesy Monmouth County, Winn Development\r\nMoving from a regimented life to one without the formal structure the military provides can present challenges the rest of us might find difficult to understand, Burry said at the ceremony. Because they don't always come with outward physical signs, they can be doubly difficult to deal with. Fortunately, there are organizations committed to helping our veterans make a successful transition by aiding them with counseling, job training and housing opportunities. No organization does this better than Soldier On.  \r\n\r\nCourtesy Monmouth County, Winn Development\r\nBurry chronicled the long journey to bring the facility to Monmouth County, including original plans to locate it on the former Fort Monmouth, currently undergoing redevelopment. After several sites emerged but failed to gain traction, Turning and Baldwin offered to donate the borough's Essex Road property.\r\nThe site needed to have enough land and a welcoming setting with access to resources for residents, Burry said. Soldier On will build a first class facility.\r\nAccording to Soldier On CEO Bruce Buckley, this will be the largest facility the organization has built to date. Buckley recently took on the CEO title from founder and president Jack Downing.\r\nIt is through Jack's dynamic leadership that Soldier On is what it is today, Burry said. Added Rep. Smith, He has been a dedicated supporter throughout this process, and his work in Washington has been invaluable.\r\nI am especially grateful to Lillian Burry for her extraordinary dream of a creating a Monmouth County homeless veterans housing initiative, and for her tenacity and skill in making it happen, Smith continued, noting, many setbacks along the way. Lillian has been the quarterback in the push to meet the compelling housing and service needs of homeless veterans. Smith, a two-time chairman of the House Veterans Affairs Committee, sponsored a 2001 law for homeless veterans authorizing funding for HUD's Veteran Affairs Supported Housing program, which will be tapped as a source of future rental assistance funding for veterans who will be living at the complex.\r\nSoldier On has created world-class home ownership opportunities coupled with vital services for homeless veterans, and the impact has been enormous and life changing, Smith said. Burry acknowledged the strong and generous support of others including Lt. Gov. Sheila Oliver and Charles Richman, New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency (NJHMFA) executive director.\r\nThere is no greater service a citizen of this country can render than service in the military, Burry concluded. In doing this they take on the highest responsibility of citizenship  defending our freedoms. They also accept the immediate risks and dangers that go with that decision. She said there are an estimated 300 homeless veterans in Monmouth County.\r\nOur average resident has had a number of decompensating events, Jack Downing told The Two River Times. When they come into our care that ceases. We find ways to keep them so they don't fail. Our ultimate goal is to provide homeless veterans with permanent, supportive, sustainable housing. Our mission is to offer a continuum of care.\r\nFor more information, visit wesoldieron.org.\r\nThe article originally appeared in the September 17  23, 2020 print edition of The Two River Times. The original version can be found online at:\r\nhttps://tworivertimes.com/veterans-village-construction-underway/", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=408987", "On the passing of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg", "2020-09-19", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "Senate", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "I convey my deepest condolences to the family of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg on her passing after a long, arduous and brave struggle with cancer.\r\n\"In the many remembrances of Justice Ginsburg, the one that I believe is most inspiring for this current time was her friendship with the late Justice Antonin Scalia which began when both served on the DC Circuit Court of Appeals. Justice Scalia once told an audience before Ruth Bader Ginsburg joined him at the Supreme Court, 'I have missed Ruth very much since leaving the court of appeals. She was the best of colleagues, as she is the best of friends.'\r\n\"Their close personal friendship underscores the fact that fundamental policy differences need not diminish friendship, respect and civility.\r\n Rep. Chris Smith", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=408984", "<span class =\"kicker\">Bipartisan bill passes House</span>Rep. Chris Smith Applauds Passage of Pregnant Workers Fairness Act", "2020-09-18", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "House", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Rep. Chris Smith (NJ-04),voted forand applauds Thursday's House passage of thePregnant Workers Fairness Act, a bipartisan bill to remove discrimination in the workplace and promote women's health and job security.\r\n Discrimination against pregnant women anywhereespecially and including in the workforceis despicable, said Smith. ThePregnant Workers Fairness Actclarifies and expands existing anti-discrimination laws by requiring employers provide reasonable workplace accommodations for pregnant workers including the ability to sit while working or take water orbathroom breaks as needed.\r\n It is especially critical as we struggle with COVID-19 and its impact on the economy that pregnant workers in a physical workplace do not face loss of employment or working conditions that jeopardize health or safety. Women should not have to choose between their and their child's health or their job, said Smith.\r\n The passage of the Pregnant Workers Fairness Actis long overdue. I applaud its passage in the House and hope that the Senate will take up this important piece of legislation to ensure pregnant workers are treated fairly and with accommodations that protect their health, added Smith.\r\n Rep. Smith recognizes the vital role of women in providing for the financial needs of their families. He is a supporter of paid family and medical leave and currently the only Republican cosponsor of theFAMILY Act(HR 1185) which would provide workers with up to 12 weeks of paid leave for pregnancy, childbirth, recovery from an illness, or to care for a family member.\r\n During the current 116th Congress, Smith also voted for thePaycheck Fairness Act (HR 7), to provide women with equal pay for equal work.\r\n Additionally, Smith voted twice for theLilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act,which changed the timeframe for a woman or any employee to file an employment discrimination charge and receive compensation.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=408993", "<span class =\"kicker\">CNS article</span>'Abraham Accords called 'truly historic milestone' in Middle East peace'", "2020-09-18", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "Senate", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE (CNS) - A Catholic congressman who is a senior member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee called the Middle East peace accord signed Sept. 15 at the White House a \"momentous pact\" he hopes \"is the beginning of several future peace accords to strengthen peace within the region.\"  \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\"The United States has again brought strength to Israel  one of our strongest allies in the region  and strength brings peace,'\" U.S. Rep. Chris Smith, R-New Jersey, said in a statement. Smith is a native of Hamilton.\r\nPresident Donald Trump, first lady Melania Trump and Vice President Mike Pence welcomed Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, United Arab Emirates Foreign Minister Abdullah bin Zayed and Bahrain Foreign Minister Abdullatif Al Zayani to the White House, where the leaders signed the document, which is being called the Abraham Accords.\r\n\"It is important to note, after decades of conflict, \r\nthis is the first such agreement between Israel \r\nand any major Arab country since 1994.\"\r\n                     ~ Rep. Chris Smith \"It is important to note, after decades of conflict, this is the first such agreement between Israel and any major Arab country since 1994,\" said Smith, who was at the White House to witness the signing, which he called \"a truly historic milestone in Middle East peace.\"\r\nThe Israel-UAE pact was initially reached Aug. 13, normalizing what had long been informal but strong foreign relations between the two countries. On Sept. 11, Bahrain announced it also would formally recognize the Jewish state.\r\nIn an Aug. 20 statement, the chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops' Committee on International Justice and Peace welcomed the normalization of diplomatic relations between Israel and the UAE and said it can be a step for peace in the Middle East.\r\n\"The Catholic bishops of the United States have long held that both morally and as a basis for lasting peace, the two parties must negotiate directly and arrive at a fair compromise that respects the aspirations and need of both peoples,\" said Bishop David J. Malloy of Rockford, Ill.\r\n\"As Catholic bishops, we join in this aspiration and know much work remains in the pursuit of peace in the region,\" he said.\r\nThe agreement is called the Abraham Accords, named for \"the father of all three great faiths,\" Christian, Muslim and Jewish.\r\nThe UAE, a federation of seven emirates, and Israel plan to exchange embassies and ambassadors, according to the statement from the White House announcing the agreement Aug. 13. The UAE and Bahrain join Egypt and Jordan as the Arab countries establishing relations with Israel.\r\nAs part of the agreement, Israel said it would temporarily suspend plans to annex disputed Palestinian territory in the West Bank, a move that Bishop Malloy said the bishops found \"gratifying\".\r\nThe planned annexation of Palestinian lands by Israel has been a major point of contention between the Jewish state and much of the Arab world.\r\nIn his statement, Bishop Malloy cited Pope Francis, who said during a visit to the UAE in 2019 that \"dialogue, understanding and the widespread promotion of a culture of tolerance, acceptance of others and of living together peacefully would contribute significantly to reducing many economic, social, political and environmental problems that weigh so heavily on a large part of humanity.\"\r\n\"It is our hope that this agreement will contribute to that peace,\" the bishop said.\r\nPalestinian Authority President Mahmoud Abbas rejected the pact, describing it as \"a betrayal of Jerusalem.\" Palestinian leaders have long called for a peace deal with Israel that recognizes Jerusalem as the capital of Palestine and Israel and for ensuring access for Jews and Muslims to each religion's holy sites in the city.\r\nThis article was published by Catholic News Service on Sept. 17, 2020 and can be found online at:  \r\nhttps://trentonmonitor.com/Content/Default/World-Nation/Article/Abraham-Accords-called-truly-historic-milestone-in-Middle-East-peace/-3/274/23891", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://vandrew.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-van-drew-requests-action-relief-america", "Congressman Van Drew Requests Action on Relief for America", "2020-09-17", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "House", "NJ", "Jefferson Van Drew", "V000133", "vandrew.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "WashingtonToday, Congressman Jeff Van Drew requests that Congressional leadership work together to fix the pressing issues facing America. Most members of Congress agree on issues like the extension of unemployment benefits, hazard pay for frontline workers, direct stimulus payments to individuals, additional PPE, funding our schools and hospitals appropriately, and the extension of protections for small businesses with programs like the Payroll Protection Program. Congressman Van Drew is requesting leadership in the House and Senate come together for America.\nAmerica needs us to come together. America needs leader that work for them, not partisan gain, said Congressman Van Drew. Let's do this for each other, for New Jersey, and for the greatest nation in the history of the world-- America.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=408979", "<span class=\"kicker\">At the White House...</span>Rep. Smith: Signing of peace accords an historic milestone for Middle East", "2020-09-15", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "House", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), a senior member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, attended today's historic signing of the Abraham Peace Accords at the White House with President and Melania Trump, Vice President Mike Pence, Prime Minister Netanyahu of Israel, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan of the United Arab Emirates, and Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdullatif Bin Rashid Al Zayani of the Kingdom of Bahrain.  \r\n\r\n It was an honor to witness the signing of the Abraham Accords, a truly historic milestone in Middle East peace, Smith said. Brokered by the United States, the Abraham Accords establishes formal ties between Israel and two Arab statesUnited Arab Emirates and Bahrain. The momentous pact is a credit to President Trump, his leadership teamincluding Secretary of State Mike Pompeoand the Trump Administration's ongoing efforts to bring lasting peace to the region.\r\n It is important to note, after decades of conflict, this is the first such agreement between Israel and any major Arab country since 1994, Smith said. I am hopeful that this is the beginning of several future peace accords to strengthen peace within the region.The United States has again brought strength to Israelone of our strongest allies in the regionand strength brings peace.\r\nPHOTO: Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Congressman Smith at the White House marking the signing of the peace accords\r\n After decades of division and conflict, we mark the dawn of a new Middle East. Thanks to the great courage of the leaders of these three countries, we take a major stride toward a future in which people of all faiths and backgrounds live together in peace and prosperity, President Trump said. These agreements prove that the nations of the region are breaking free from the failed approaches of the past, said Trump. Today's signing sets history on a new course.  \r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=408982", "<span class =\"kicker\">Patch news article on vets housing Smith helped get started</span>'Veterans' Housing Coming To Tinton Falls'", "2020-09-14", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "House", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "ByCarly Baldwin,Patch Staff\r\n  \r\n This past Saturday, Sept. 12 saw the start of construction on a $23 million, 70-unit apartment community in Tinton Falls for veterans of the U.S. armed forces, including veterans transitioning from homelessness.  \r\n\r\n\r\nConstruction of the Gordon H. Mansfield Veterans Village will be directed by WinnDevelopment, the development arm of U.S. affordable housing leader WinnCompanies. The project will feature a four-story building with 70 one-bedroom apartments that will be available at a range of income levels: 18 units will be available to individuals earning up to 30 percent of Area Median Income (AMI); 24 will be designated at 50 percent of AMI; 10 at 60 percent of AMI, and 18 at 80 percent AMI.\r\nVeterans' Village is located on a wooded 12-acre site on Essex Road in the borough of Tinton Falls; the property was donated by Tinton Falls. Federal, state, county and local officials gathered Saturday morning at Liberty Park in Tinton Falls to celebrate the groundbreaking.\r\n\r\n\r\nExpected to be ready for occupancy by October 2021, the community is named for the late Gordon H. Mansfield, a highly decorated Vietnam War veteran who served as Deputy Secretary of Veterans Affairs.\r\nThis project is being built in partnership with Soldier On, a non-profit organization serving homeless veterans since 1994. Solider On will provide residents at The Gordon H. Mansfield Veterans' Village with comprehensive services, including case management and wellness support, workforce assistance, benefits assessment and application assistance, legal services, transportation, telehealth, daily meals and many ancillary support programs.\r\n\r\nThe area's local congressman, Chris Smith, said it took more than a decade to get this project to come to fruition.\r\n\r\n\"Because of federal, state and local public and private partnership, we are making progress  but there are 37,000 homeless vets on the street on any given night,\" said Smith, (R-NJ4). That number remains unconscionable high. We have more to work to do.\"\r\n\r\n\r\nSmith said Monmouth County Freeholder Lillian Burry was \"the quarterback\" in the effort to see the project through to completion.  \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n    \r\n        \r\n            \r\n        \r\n    \r\n\r\n\"I am especially grateful to Freeholder Lillian Burry for her extraordinary dream of a creating a Monmouth County homeless veterans housing initiative, and for her tenacity and skill in making it happen. For nearly a decade, Lillian has been the quarterback in the push to meet the compelling housing and service needs of homeless veteransand there have been many setbacks along the way, including an inability to secure space at Fort Monmouth.\"  \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\"I have been proud to do my part in finding a Monmouth County home for Soldier On, and I promise you I will continue to be an active supporter as it moves from design through construction to the day that it opens its doors and welcomes its very first veteran home,\" Burry said.  \r\n\r\n\"I am very excited to see the start of construction on the Gordon H. Mansfield Veterans Village in Tinton Falls,\" said New Jersey State Sen. Vin Gopal (D-Monmouth). \"As Chair of the Military and Veterans' Affairs Committee, I'm grateful for this apartment complex setting aside one bedroom apartments for homeless veterans in our community. The transition from military service to civilian life can be very difficult, but the economic downturn caused by the public health crisis has made it even harder for our veterans to find jobs and put a roof over their family's head. This apartment complex encompasses a token of our gratitude towards those who have served our great nation.\"\r\n\r\n\r\nPHOTO: Congressman Smith and Monmouth County Freehold Lillian Burry. The $23 million project is supported by the New Jersey Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency (NJHMFA), which will provide construction and permanent financing from the Agency Revenue Bond Financing Program and a subsidy mortgage loan commitment from the NJHMFA's Multifamily Rental Housing Production Fund; low-income housing tax credit equity provided by Bank of America; a subordinate mortgage from Federal Home Loan Bank New York Affordable Housing Program; HOME funds from Monmouth County, NJ; project based rental assistance from the New Jersey Department of Housing Assistance; and, a deferred developer fee.\r\nThe New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA) has awarded 18 Housing Choice Project Based Vouchers to the project to assist homeless veterans.  \r\n\r\n\r\nTHIS ARTICLE WAS PUBLISHED ON SEPT. 13, 2020 AND CAN BE FOUND AT:\r\nhttps://patch.com/new-jersey/middletown-nj/veterans-housing-coming-tinton-falls", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://vandrew.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-van-drew-sends-letter-fema-administrator-gaynor-opposition-policy", "Congressman Van Drew Sends Letter to FEMA Administrator Gaynor in Opposition to Policy Changes", "2020-09-14", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "House", "NJ", "Jefferson Van Drew", "V000133", "vandrew.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "September 11, 2020\n\nPeter T. Gaynor\nAdministrator\nFederal Emergency Management Agency\n500 C St. SW\nWashington, DC 20024\n\nDear Administrator Gaynor,\nI write to you to oppose the COVID-19 Pandemic: Work Eligible for Public Assistance policy that puts restrictions on reimbursement for personal protective equipment (PPE) during the COVID-19 pandemic starting 9/15/2020.\nThere are numerous employees in public facilities and schools who will no longer be able to utilize FEMA's Category B designation. The PPE and disinfectants which were previously reimbursable no longer qualify. We must rectify this as we head back to school and as colder weather forces more students, teachers, medical professionals (and many more) indoors.\nThis will have a cascading negative impact as we continue to fight COVID-19 with all the tools available to us. We respectfully request you change this policy.\nSincerely,\nCongressman Jeff Van Drew", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=407976", "<span class =\"kicker\">Author of historic homeless veterans law thanks Freeholder Burry</span>Smith helps break ground for new homes for veterans at risk of homelessness", "2020-09-12", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "House", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Rep. Chris Smith (NJ-04), who worked with local officials for a decade to bring a modern housing project and services to homeless veterans, was one of the guest speakers today at a groundbreaking for the innovative housing complex in Monmouth County.\r\n Smith said Monmouth County Freeholder Lillian Burry was the quarterback in the effort to see the project through to fruition.  \r\n\r\n I have been proud to do my part in finding a Monmouth County home for Soldier On, and I promise you I will continue to be an active supporter as it moves from design through construction to the day that it opens its doors and welcomes its very first veteran home, Burry said.\r\n Said Smith, I am especially grateful to Freeholder Lillian Burry for her extraordinary dream of a creating a Monmouth County homeless veterans housing initiative, and for her tenacity and skill in making it happen. For nearly a decade, Lillian has been the quarterback in the push to meet the compelling housing and service needs of homeless veteransand there have been many setbacks along the way, including an inability to secure space at Fort Monmouth.\r\n\r\n    \r\n        \r\n            \r\n        \r\n        \r\n            Artist rendering provided by WinnDevelopment\r\n        \r\n    \r\n\r\n According to the VA, in 2001 there were 294,840 homeless veterans on any given night, said Smith, whose landmark 2001 law for homeless veterans first authorized funding for the U.S. Dept. of Housing and Urban Development-Veteran Affairs Supported Housing (HUD-VASH) program. Shocked and deeply concerned, I chaired a series of congressional hearings on how to help homeless vets, and wrote the historic Homeless Veterans Comprehensive Assistance Act of 2001, (Public Law 107-95). Almost 20 years later, that number has dropped to 37,085. Progress, but still far too many.\r\n Among its many provisions, Smith's law authorized, for the first time, the HUD-VASH program, which will be tapped as a major source of future rental assistance funding for veterans who will be living at the housing complex.\r\n The Gordon H. Mansfield Veterans Village in Tinton Falls will be run by the non-profit organization Soldier On, and will consist of a four-story building with apartments that will be available to veterans at a range of low and moderate income levels.\r\n About 50 people attended the groundbreaking ceremony held at Monmouth County Liberty Park just north of the 12-acre project site located on Essex Road in Tinton Falls Borough. About $8 million in federal funding will help pay for construction. The remaining costs will be financed by the developer and the NJ Housing and Mortgage Finance Agency.\r\n Today construction begins on Soldier On and WinnDevelopment's $23 million, 70 one-bedroom housing units, Smith said. Thank you Tinton Falls for welcoming the project.\r\n Smith praised Soldier On's leaders, President Jack Downing and CEO Bruce Buckley, for their tireless efforts to help vets who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless.\r\n Soldier Onthanks Jack Downing and Bruce Buckleyhas created world-class home ownership opportunities coupled with vital services for homeless veterans, and the impact has been enormous and life changing, Smith said. For the first time in yearseven decadesmany veterans will finally have a decent place to live and hope and prosper.\r\n\r\n    \r\n        \r\n            \r\n        \r\n        \r\n            Rep. Smith and Freeholder Lillian Burry.\r\n        \r\n    \r\n\r\n Smith, who served as the two-time Chairman of the House Veterans Affairs Committee and has authored 14 laws to help veterans, has worked closely with the Freeholders and Soldier On since 2011 to bring veteran services, including the critical housing project, to New Jersey. Smith supported funds through the Veteran Administration's (VA) Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) grant program. Over the past eight years, Soldier On has received $31 million from the VA's SSVF grants program for New Jersey, serving thousands of veterans by not only helping provide a roof over their heads and food to eat, but also critical tools to break the cycle of homelessness, such as job training, substance abuse services and mental health counseling.\r\n Smith helped Solider On first come to New Jersey in 2011, assisting the Massachusetts-based organization to obtain a $1 million VA SSVF grant in 2012 to help veterans in his district in Monmouth, Ocean and Burlington counties, plus Middlesex and parts of Mercer. That work later expanding to serve nine counties, adding all of Mercer, Somerset, Bergen, Hudson and Essex. Today it also manages similar veteran housing operations in New York and Massachusetts, providing 177 homes, with another 152 in various stages of development.\r\n Smith wrote to VA Secretary Eric Shinseki in February 2012 about the grants and housing project seeking VA support. Smith announced the first grants in in 2012 and 2013 and fought for funding in 2015. Smith also sent letters of support for Soldier On to Gov. Christie and Lt. Gov. Oliver and the NJ Housing and Mortgage Financing Agency in 2017. In 2020, he led a bipartisan letter supporting $47 million for the HUD-VASH program.\r\n This has not been my effort alone. Like most worthwhile undertakings, it has had strong hands and hearts moving it forward, Burry said, who thanked everyone who contributed at the state, county and local levels of government, plus private citizens and Soldier On. She said of Smith's efforts: He has been a dedicated supporter throughout this process, and his work in Washington has been invaluable.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=408976", "<span class =\"kicker\">Asbury Park Press business briefs</span>'Rep Chris Smith receives inaugural bipartisan award'", "2020-09-12", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "House", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Asbury Park Press business briefs'Rep Chris Smith receives inaugural bipartisan award' \r\n   \r\n    \r\n       \r\n      \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      f \r\n      t \r\n      #\r\n      e\r\n      \r\n      \r\n    \r\n    \r\n      \r\n        Washington,\r\n        Sep 12, 2020\r\n      \r\n       \r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n\r\n  \r\n      \r\n    \r\n\r\n  \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      \r\n      \r\n      Tamara Walker, Asbury Park Press  \r\n\r\n  \r\nThe U.S. Chamber of Commerce awarded U.S. Rep. Chris Smith, R-N.J.,its inaugural Jefferson-Hamilton Award for Bipartisanship recipient, citing Smith's work during the first half of the 116th Congress in 2019-2020. The Jefferson-Hamilton Award is presented to the 20 top members of Congress, apportioned by party, based on the number of bills a member cosponsors introduced by a member of the opposite party. Smithhas the second-most bills enacted into law than among all of the sitting 435 members of the House. He is running for his 21st term in the House, representing the Fourth District, which straddles parts of Monmouth, Ocean and Mercer counties.\r\nUSA TODAY NETWORK New Jersey editorial board sits down with (pictured) Republican incumbent Chris Smith and Democratic challenger Josh Welle during a debate at the Asbury Park Press in Neptune, NJ Thursday, October 25, 2018. (Photo: Tanya Breen)\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nThis article and photo ran with business briefs in the Sept. 11, 2020 edition of the Asbury Park Press, and the original version can be found online at:\r\nhttps://www.app.com/story/money/business/2020/09/11/ \r\n\r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      f \r\n      t \r\n      #\r\n      e", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=408983", "<span class =\"kicker\">Robbinsville TAPInto news article on Mayor, local officials, Congressman at flag display</span>'Celebrating the American Flag: Robbinsville Hangs New Flags on 9/11'", "2020-09-12", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "House", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Almost 100 area residents came out to show their pride in the American flag on the 19th anniversary of the terrorist attacks on the country. The group of veterans, families, men,women,and children from all walks of life showed the diversity of the community and unity in their support for the country.\r\nAt the event, Robbinsville Mayor Dave Fried reiterated the importance of the flag saying \"itis the first thing you are given when you are sworn in to become a citizen, and the last thing when a member of the military pays the ultimate sacrifice.\"\r\nSpeaking before the group, Congressman Chris Smith (NJ-4) honored the first responders who \"ran up into the buildings to save lives\" after the World Trade Center was struck by planes. He also remembered those who suffered serious, even fatal, illnesses as a result of their brave acts. Smith also said he remembered that almost every roadway overpass in the state donned a flag following September 11th.\r\nLocal veteran Mel Boyce spoke to the crowd about the meaning of the red, white and blue in the flag. According to the American Legion, the white stripes signifypurity and innocence; the red stripes stand forhardiness and valor; and the blue signifies vigilance, perseverance, and justice.  \r\n\r\n\r\n    \r\n        \r\n            \r\n        \r\n    \r\n\r\nThe group walked together, manywaving flags, tothe Turnpike overpass on West Manor Way to rehang two American Flags. While doing so, numerous trucks and cars on the roadway below honked their horns in solidarity.\r\nThe Friday event at Community Park was organized by Robbinsville Township and the Robbinsville PBA local #344 after public outcry when flags were removed from the fences on overpasses by the New Jersey Turnpike Authority.\r\nGovernor Phil Murphy quickly stopped the flag removalsayingI think we should be proud of our flag at every step, Murphy noted. I stand with the flag. PHOTO: Robbinsville Mayor, Council Members, PBA #344 and Congressman Chris Smith.\r\n(Credit Elizabeth Meyers)\r\n\r\nThis article originally ran in the Sept. 11 edition of the Robbnsville TAPInto can can be found at:\r\nhttps://www.tapinto.net/towns/hamilton-slash-robbinsville/sections/giving-back/articles/celebrating-the-american-flag-robbinsville-hangs-new-flags-on-9-11", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=407971", "<span class=\"kicker\">Rep. Smith recalls 9/11 at Monmouth Co. memorial</span>Remembering the Victims of 9/11", "2020-09-11", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "House", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "By Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ)\r\n Everyone remembers where they were and what they were doing when terrorists hijacked four airliners in order to commit the worst act of terrorism in American history. \r\n Nearly 700 New Jerseyans147 from Monmouth County alonelost their lives that day. \r\n No one remembers the shock, horror and numbing sorrow more, however, than the families and close friends of the victims. \r\n Because it was a surprise attack, there was no chance to fight back that day although when Todd Beamer and other passengers learned what happened to the Twin Towers, Todd famously said let's roll and they attacked the terrorists on board the flight that crashed in a Pennsylvania field.\r\n Who can forget the courageous first responders running up the stairs of the burning buildingswith total disregard for their own safety.\r\n On the morning of 9/11, I got a mere glimpseI say again, a mere glimpseinto the sense of horror suffered by the victim's families when I couldn't reach my own brother Toman American Airlines 757 Captain who often piloted Flight 11 from Logan to LA, the flight that crashed into the North Tower. \r\n Evacuated from the Capitol and stuck in traffic within sight of the burning Pentagon, cell phones were all but gridlocked. About noon I got through. He and his flight attendant wife Sandy were safe but were in anguish because they knew the pilots and crew on board Flight 11.\r\n For 19 years, the families and friends of those who died that day and since have had to endure their loss and a broken heart.\r\n Both thenand now 19 years laterwords are inadequate to convey our empathy for those who died and for the victims' families.\r\n For many, their faith in God has helped them survive and overcome.\r\n Some, including the Jersey Girlsfour amazing women who lost their husbands at the World Trade Centerpushed the Congress to create the historic and transformative 911 Commission that was led so effectively by former Governor Tom Kean. \r\n As you know, 19 years later, the consequencesthe ongoing loss of life and health attributable to 9/11are even worse than anyone could have ever imagined.\r\n Congress enacted the World Trade Center Health Program Fund (WTCHP) &amp; Victims Compensation Fund to provide health services for responders at the three crash sites, and others in the vicinity of the WTC site for health conditions related to toxic exposures from the attacks.\r\n 105,272 individuals enrolled in the program9,157 are from New Jersey aloneand a total of 19,150 responders and survivors have been diagnosed with cancer and more than 3,500 have died after September 11th . \r\n Rigorous testing and early interventions offer some hope to those manifesting illness. \r\n So today, we remember and honor all the victims of 9/11past, present and future  Above are excerpts of remarks of by Rep. Smith given in Middletown, N.J. on Friday, Sept. 11, 2020 at a 9/11 memorial held.by Monmouth County.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://vandrew.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-van-drew-offering-wounded-warrior-fellowship", "Congressman Van Drew Offering Wounded Warrior Fellowship", "2020-09-10", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "House", "NJ", "Jefferson Van Drew", "V000133", "vandrew.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Congressman Van Drew is seeking a wounded warrior or medically retired veteran for a position in his Mays Landing district office.\nThe Wounded Warrior Fellowship Program was established by the House of Representatives to provide employment opportunities for wounded or disabled veterans within member offices.\nThe program is limited to veterans who meet all of the following requirements: Honorably discharged, released from active duty within the last five years, terminal pay grades at or below E-5 or O-3, 20% or greater service connected disabilities (waived if you have a Purple Heart). Veterans who are in receipt of a 20-year or Temporary Early Retirement Authorization (TERA) retirement are not eligible for the program.\nInterested veterans should go to https://www.usajobs.gov/ and search Wounded Warrior Fellowship Program for more information and how to apply.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=407970", "<span class =\"kicker\">Patch News Article</span>'Bipartisan Effort Leads To Conservation Victory For New Jersey'", "2020-09-07", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "House", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "The work of New Jersey conservation leaders and Congressional representatives led to the full and permanent funding of the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF), a federal program that has enabled the acquisition and development of thousands of acres of open spaces and recreation areas in New Jersey.\r\n\r\n\r\nAccording to officials, a huge effort by U.S. Representative Mikie Sherrill, and U.S. Representative Chris Smith and the entire New Jersey Congressional Delegation helped make it possible. 'We have been fighting a long time to permanently authorize \r\nthe LWCF. The new law signed by President Trump assures a \r\nsteady, reliable federal investment  and the private partnership \r\nfunding it will generate for critical conservation projects.'\r\n                               Rep. Chris Smith\r\n\"I am excited to join New Jersey Conservation and the local community to celebrate the passage of the Great American Outdoors Act at the Great Swamp today. It is a reminder of why we worked so hard to pass this landmark legislation, which includes full and permanent funding for the Land and Water Conservation Fund,\" said Sherrill. \"I frequently highlighted the Great Swamp as I worked to build support from Members of Congress to sign on to the Great American Outdoors Act. This bipartisan legislation is a historic investment in our open spaces, will help us jumpstart our economic recovery from the COVID-19 crisis, and will protect New Jersey's natural resources and public lands for generations to come. I thank New Jersey Conservation and all the organizations who worked alongside us to champion this legislation.\"\r\n\r\n\r\nThis victory for LWCF, which was years in the making, was part of the Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA) legislation, signed into law in early August. Since 1965, LWCF has invested in land preservation and recreation projects in every state and almost every county.\r\n\"We have been fighting a long time to permanently authorize the LWCF,\" Smith said in a statement. \"The new law signed by President Trump assures a steady, reliable federal investment  and the private partnership funding it will generate for critical conservation projects. The law also funds much-needed maintenance at national parks and federal lands that has been backlogged for years. In New Jersey, we are particularly fortunate to have many environmental treasures  including coastal areas, wetlands and wildlife sanctuaries  that already benefit from the LWCF and by fully stabilizing the fund we are assuring that New Jersey citizens will have more and better protected outdoor landscapes to visit and enjoy in the future.\"\r\n\r\n\r\nThe Great Swamp Wildlife Refuge is among the many New Jersey special places preserved through LWCF, financed entirely by revenues from offshore oil and gas leases, not tax dollars.\r\n\"The Land and Water Conservation Fund provides tremendous benefits to New Jersey and everywhere in the nation,\" said Michele S. Byers, Executive Director of New Jersey Conservation Foundation. \"It is far and away our nation's most important conservation program, and now that it's been made permanent, we can move forward to protect the natural lands still needing preservation in New Jersey.\"\r\n\r\n\r\nOther New Jersey natural areas funded by LWCF include Gateway National Recreation Area, Cape May National Wildlife Refuge, Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, Morristown National Historic Park, Edwin Forsythe National Wildlife Refuge and the Wallkill River National Wildlife Refuge.\r\n\r\n\r\n\"Great Swamp Watershed Association is thrilled that the Great American Outdoors Act has become law. We are so thankful that Congress has taken action on behalf of our environment. The need for open space and safe places to recreate is more important now than ever before. Our national parks and national wildlife refuges are truly national treasures. This legislation provides crucial funding for their support,\" said Sally Rubin, Executive Director, Great Swamp Watershed Association.\r\n\r\n\r\nNew Jersey Conservation leaders praised Congresswoman Sherrill, Congressman Smith and the entire New Jersey Congressional Delegation in the effort to secure full funding and the permanent reauthorization of the Land and Water Conservation Fund.\r\n\"The Coalition for the Delaware River Watershed applauds our Congressional representatives for prioritizing conservation and bipartisanship to get the Great American Outdoors Act across the finish line. The watershed states of New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Delaware have all benefited from previous Land and Water Conservation Fund dollars, and we're excited to see permanent, full funding flow to our outdoor recreation infrastructure and protect land that is essential to healthy water quality and wildlife habitat,\" said Sandra Meola, Director, Coalition for the Delaware River Watershed.\r\n\r\n\r\nThe Nature Conservancy New Jersey Chapter Executive Director Barbara Brummer said the legislation is the most important U.S. conservation bill in a generation, creating a lasting path for the future of New Jersey and the country's public lands, while supporting jobs.\r\n\"This victory would not have happened without the dedication of so many champions who worked tirelessly over many years to secure permanent funding for The Land and Water Conservation Fund,\" she said.\r\n\r\nThis article was originally published online by the Patch community news group on Sept., 4, 2020 and can be found online at:\r\nhttps://patch.com/new-jersey/hopatcong-sparta/s/h8ddb/bipartisan-effort-leads-conservation-victory-new-jersey", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=407966", "<span class =\"kicker\">APP Op-Ed on WW II vets by Smith</span>'75 years after the end of World War II, we honor 'exceptional heroism' | Smith'", "2020-09-03", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "House", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Asbury Park Press Opinion-Editorial \r\nBy Rep. Chris Smith Sept.2, 2020, marks the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II and the day Imperial Japan signed the Instrument of Surrender aboard the USS Missouri in Tokyo Bay. The war that began for the Unites States with the bloody and unprovoked attack on Pearl Harbor on Dec.7, 1941, ended on Sept.2, 1945, with unconditional surrender, bringing to a close a war that Americans fought on two fronts, where over 400,000 Americans sacrificed their lives for freedom and democracy. What followed on Sept.3, 1945, was unprecedented in world history  the democratization and rebuilding by America of a former adversary.  \r\n\r\n\r\nThe National World War II Memorial in Washington, DC(Photo: VickyRu, Getty Images/iStockphoto)\r\n\r\nJapan and Germany  the latter assisted by the Marshall Plan  are today great friends and allies of the United States.\r\n\r\nMore: Aberdeen Vietnam War medic gets Silver Star 51 years after defending wounded GIs' lives\r\nThe World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C., contains a quote most fitting for today. President Truman expressed the profound gratitude of our nation, which is as true today as it was when he first uttered the words: Our debt to the heroic man and valiant women in the service of our country can never be repaid. They have earned our undying gratitude; America will never forget their sacrifices.\r\n\r\nA view of the inscribed quote by President Harry Truman beginning, \"Our debt to the heroic men and valiant women...\" at the World War II Memorial in Washington DC.(Photo: Mosslight Fine Art Photography, Getty Images)\r\n\r\nMay we never forget that when faced with an attack on our nation, American soldiers, sailors, airmen, marines, coast guard and merchant marine  backed by home front workers and supported by spouses, family and fellow Americans  responded with great courage and perseverance.\r\n\r\nToday, my wife Marie and I remember both our fathers' and the lasting legacy of service to country they left to our family. Both served in the Pacific theatre. Both were card-carrying members of the Greatest Generation that saved the world from oppression and tyranny. Both simply said they did their duty.\r\n\r\nMy dad, Bern Smith, was a combat infantryman who fought in New Guinea and other islands and was deployed to the Philippines for its liberation. He seldom spoke about his experience  it was too painful even decades later  but my dad often spoke of the incredible bond of friendship forged with his army buddies during battle and the indomitable will to overcome all adversity and prevail.\r\n\r\nIn like manner, my wife's father, Donald Hahn, served at sea onboard the heavy cruiser USS Canberra and was a part of the massive effort to subdue the large and highly capable Japanese navy.\r\n\r\n\r\nUSA TODAY NETWORK New Jersey editorial board sits down with (pictured) Republican incumbent Chris Smith and Democratic challenger Josh Welle during a debate at the Asbury Park Press in Neptune, NJ Thursday, October 25, 2018. (Photo: Tanya Breen)\r\n\r\nWe remember and we honor the exceptional heroism of the Greatest Generation. The passage of time will never diminish the respect and gratitude of Americans for the sacrifice and valor of those who fought to safeguard liberty in World War II on the battlefield and on the home front.\r\n\r\nU.S. Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ)\r\nChris Smith represents the 4th District, which includes parts of Monmouth and Ocean \r\n  \r\nThe above article ran in the Sept. 2, 2020 online edition of the Asbury Park Press and can be found online at:\r\nhttps://www.app.com/story/opinion/columnists/2020/09/02/75-years-after-end-ww-ii-we-honor-exceptional-heroism-smith/5689810002/", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=407962", "<span class =\"kicker\"> Statement by Rep. Chris Smith</span>75 years ago, World War II came to an end", "2020-09-02", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "House", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Statement by Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) -  \r\n\r\nToday, September 2, 2020, marks the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II and the day Imperial Japan signed the Instrument of Surrender aboard the USS Missouri in Tokyo Bay.  \r\n\r\nThe war that began for the United States with the bloody and unprovoked attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941 ended on September 2, 1945 with unconditional surrender bringing to a close a war that Americans fought on two fronts where over 400,000 Americans sacrificed their lives for freedom and democracy.  \r\n\r\n\r\n    \r\n        \r\n            Bern Smith served in the U.S. Army during WWII.\r\n        \r\n    \r\n\r\nWhat followed on September 3, 1945 was unprecedented in world historythe democratization and rebuilding by America of a former adversary.\r\nJapan and Germanythe latter assisted by the Marshall Planare today great friends and allies of the United States.  \r\n\r\n  \r\nhe World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C. contains a quote most fitting for today. President Truman expressed the profound gratitude of our Nation which is as true today as it was when he first uttered the words: Our debt to the heroic man and valiant women in the service of our country can never be repaid. They have earned our undying gratitude; America will never forget their sacrifices.  \r\n\r\nMay we never forget that when faced with an attack on our Nation, American soldiers, sailors, airmen, marines, coast guard and merchant marinebacked by Home Front workers and supported by spouses, family, and fellow Americansresponded with great courage and perseverance.\r\n\r\n    \r\n        \r\n            Donald Hahn served in the US Navy during WWII.\r\n        \r\n    \r\n\r\nIn like manner, my wife's father, Donald Hahn, served at sea onboard the heavy cruiser USS Canberra and was a part of the massive effort to subdue the large and highly capable Japanese navy.My dad, Bern Smith, was a combat infantryman who fought in New Guinea and other islands and was deployed to the Philippines for its liberation. He seldom spoke about his experienceit was too painful even decades laterbut my dad often spoke of the incredible bond of friendship forged with his army buddies during battle and the indomitable will to overcome all adversity and prevail.Today, my wife Marie and I remember both our fathers' and the lasting legacy of service to country they left to our family. Both served in the Pacific theatre. Both were card-carrying members of the Greatest Generation that saved the world from oppression and tyranny. Both simply said they did their duty.\r\nToday, we remember and we honor the exceptional heroism of the Greatest Generation. The passage of time will never diminish the respect and gratitude of Americans for the sacrifice and valor of those who fought to safeguard liberty in World War II on the battlefield and on the Home Front.  \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n    \r\n        \r\n            \r\n        \r\n    \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nPHOTO AT LEFT: Supreme Allied Commander Gen. Douglas MacArthur signs the articles of surrender, with former POWs U.S. Gen. Wainwright and UK Gen. Percival behind him. (US National Archives photo)  \r\n\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://vandrew.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-van-drew-sends-trump-administration-support-letter-maurice-river", "Congressman Van Drew Sends Trump Administration Support Letter for Maurice River Dredging Project", "2020-09-02", "2020", "2020-09", "Republican", "House", "NJ", "Jefferson Van Drew", "V000133", "vandrew.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "MAYS LANDING- Today, Congressman Jeff Van Drew sent a letter to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and Assistant Secretary of the Army (Civil Works) R.D. James in support of the Maurice River dredging project. This critical project will expedite economic growth and coastal resilience in South Jersey and the Delaware Bayshore. It has been nearly 25 years since the Maurice River was last serviced; far past the optimal 5-8 year maintenance cycle. In July, Congressman Van Drew visited with local leaders, business owners, and Army Corps of Engineers officials to inspect the project site firsthand.\nThis project is critical and will expedite much-needed economic growth in South Jersey, said Rep. Van Drew. We will work our hardest to see this long-overdue project is approved and implemented.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=407960", "Smith welcomes $1.1M-plus CARES Act funds to provide housing in Neptune area", "2020-08-28", "2020", "2020-08", "Republican", "House", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "The Township of Neptune Housing Authority (TNHA) will receive $1.1 million in emergency federal funding to provide safe housing during the coronavirus pandemic, Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) said today. The funding comes from the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act which Smith supported and was signed into law by President Trump on March 27.\r\nThis federal grant will help support and expand shelter and housing programs for the residents of Neptune Township and the City of Neptune as we continue our battle through the COVID-19 pandemic, Smith said. It will bolstercritical housing opportunities for low income residents during an uncertain time for many in the community.\r\nSmith noted that the new grant comes on the heels of previously awarded federal funding to the TNHA used providemasks for residents, stand up sanitizing stations and computer laptops and PPE for staff. He said that the coordinated and combined impact ensures more and safer opportunities for the homeless during the pandemic.\r\nTNHA Executive Director Bart Cook said TNHA, which serves housing programs in both the township and the City of Neptune, used $49,500 in HUD funds awarded in April for laptop computers for staff, additional signage throughout their properties encouraging residents to wear masks and social distance; as well as to provide meals and food to over 200 seniors and families every week in conjunction with Monmouth Ocean PAL. Cook said the new grant will support the existing Section 8 Housing and possibly even allow expanded housing.\r\nWe are very excited about the possibilities, Cook said. In the current environment, the monies will allow us to stay at the forefront of providing the public fair and safe housing. It could not have come at a better time. Thank you to the congressman. We are very grateful for this grant.We have really invested in the technology to keep the staff, as well as the residents, safe.\r\nSmith said impact of COVID-19 on the economy has increased the need for public housing.\r\nThe economic devastation brought on by the COVID-19 outbreak has increased the need in many communities for affordable housing, and these federal programs are designed to help keep people healthy and prevent homelessness,Smith said. The federal government, through theCARES Act, is helping keep the most vulnerable in our community safe.\r\n The $1,167,994 for TNHA isprovided through U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Program Housing Assistance Payments (HAP) Supplemental Funding provided by theCARES Act (Public Law 116-136), which Smith supported when it passed the House and became law in March. The CARES Act provided additional appropriations for HAP to prevent, prepare for, and respond to coronavirus (COVID-19).\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=407961", "Smith, author of Belarus Democracy & Human Rights Act, calls on Belarus Lukashenko to step down", "2020-08-28", "2020", "2020-08", "Republican", "House", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "U.S. Representative Chris Smith (R-NJ), a senior member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee and author of theBelarus Democracy and Human Rights Act, is calling on Alexander Lukashenko, the long-time dictator of Belarus, to step down in the wake of pro-democracy protests sparked by recent contentious elections which have been widely criticized as unfair and fraudulent.\r\n Rather than killing, rounding up and jailing his political opponents, Lukashenko needs to listen to the voices of the Belarusian people who are calling for freedom of speech, freedom of the press, and the freedom to change their government through free and fair elections, Smith said. For too long he has squelched these fundamental rights of the people of Belarus.Lukashenko needs to step down and allow a transitional government to manage truly free and fair elections that genuinely represent the will of the Belarusian people.\r\n A leading human rights lawmaker, Smith is the author of three laws to advance and promote democracy and human rights in Belarus: H.R. 854, theBelarus Democracy Act of 2004; H.R. 5948, theBelarus Democracy Reauthorization Act of 2006,and; H.R. 515, theBelarus Democracy Reauthorization Act of 2011.\r\n Smith's laws, which served as the forerunners for other major human rights laws known as theSergei Magnitsky Actand theGlobal Magnitsky Act(for which Smith was theprime sponsor in the House), impose personal sanctions on Lukashenko and other political leaders in his regime, including visa denials and prohibition on their ability to do any commerce with any U.S. entity.The Smith laws require Belarus to release political prisoners and transition toward democracy before the United States lifts the sanctions on Belarusian officials imposed by the laws.\r\n Smith also forewarned Russian President Vladimir Putin not to send military or police forces to prop up Lukashenko's crumbling regime, which Putin has threatened to do.\r\n It is up to the Belarusian people to decide their own future and who shall lead their country, not Vladimir Putin, Smith said. Russian interference and intervention will only fail, and in the long run, foster enmity between Belarus and the Russian Federation.Mr. Putin: Don't create another Ukraine in Belarus.  \r\n\r\n\r\n    \r\n        \r\n            \r\n                   Key provisions of Smith's laws to promote democracy and human rights in Belarus\r\n            Smith's laws established specific economic and U.S. entry sanctions against Belarus until the   President of the United States certifies to the appropriate congressional committees that the government of Belarus has made progress in meeting specified conditions respecting:\r\n             release of political and religious prisoners and accounting for the disappearances of opposition leaders and journalists.\r\n             cessation of political harassment.\r\n             prosecution of senior government leaders for embezzlement of state assets.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=407949", "All-volunteer Manalapan firehouse to receive FEMA grant to help recruit new members", "2020-08-25", "2020", "2020-08", "Republican", "House", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "The Gordons Corner Fire Company in Manalapan Township will receive a Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) federal grant to help recruit and retain volunteers, said Rep. Chris Smith (NJ-04) today.\r\n Gordons Corner Fire Company is an all-volunteer firehouse that very much depends on keeping its current firefighters to protect the community, as well as attracting a new generation of volunteers, Smith said.This funding comes from the SAFER grant program, which Congress created to do just that: help communities to be safer by recruiting and retaining firefighters.\r\n\r\n Our all-volunteer fire companies have a challenge to find residents with the time and willingness to do the required training to serve their communities, said Smith This grant will help them tackle that challenge and foster a new generation of volunteers. Volunteer firefighters fill a critical need of public service. They are both heroes and dedicated members of the community who respond to the call to serve.\r\n\r\n    \r\n        \r\n            \r\n        \r\n    \r\n\r\nPHOTO: Established in 1962, the volunteers of Gordons Corner Fire Company Station serve the residents of Fire District #1 in the township. Pictured is the station located on Tennent Road constructed in 1967, with a satellite firehouse constructed on Pease Road in 1976.\r\n The Operations and Safety Grant comes from the Department of Homeland Security's FY 2019 Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program' SAFER program.The grant is administered by the Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in cooperation with the U.S. Fire Administration. The SAFER Program operates a Recruitment and Retention of Volunteer Firefighters program.\r\n We plan to use this grant to keep our retention growing and our roster of qualified firefighters to better serve the residents of Manalapan, said Chief Rob DiTota.\r\n DiTota said the grant will fund efforts to reach out to the community via social media and other avenues to attract new members to the Gordons Corner Fire Company.\r\n                                                  ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=407948", "<span class =\"kicker\">More federal aid coming to Robbinsville</span>FEMA funds to protect Robbinsville firefighters", "2020-08-24", "2020", "2020-08", "Republican", "House", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Robbinsville firefighters will receive a federal grant to purchase thermal imaging cameras that protect first responders and help them protect the public, said Rep. Chris Smith (NJ-04) today.\r\n This $22,805 grant will help pay for two thermal imaging cameras that can provide life-saving information in a smoke and fire-filled environment, Smith said.The funding comes from the Operations and Safety grant program, which Congress created to help communities equip their firefighters and EMS.\r\n Our firefighters rush into burning houses and buildings that other people are fleeing from, stated Smith (NJ-04). As they go into harm's way, they need tools to protect their lives in dangerous, potentially deadly conditions. These cameras give firefighters the ability to operate under conditions of poor visibility, including searching for victims, pinpointing the location of the fire, and avoiding obstacles.\r\n Eighteen firefighters are employed by the municipality to serve the 20-square-mile township's estimated 14,000-plus residents. The cameras will replace current older equipment that has become difficult to service.\r\n The Operations and Safety Grant comes from the Department of Homeland Security's FY 2020 Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) Program.The grant is administered by the Department of Homeland Security's Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) in cooperation with the U.S. Fire Administration.\r\n The Robbinsville Township Fire Department, Mayor Fried, Chief Schaffener, and Robbinsville Township Administration released a statement thanking Congressman Smith for assistance and support during the application process.\r\n Without the direct support of our application and the overall program support of the Assistance to Firefighters Grant Program by Congressman Smith, our department would be faced with difficult realities regarding the safety of our firefighters and residents, the statement read. The benefits of this award for our department and local residents is immeasurable.\r\n Earlier this summer Robbinsville was awarded an AFG supplemental grant (AFG-S) to buy personnel protective equipment (PPE) to respond to the pandemic and support community resilience. That grant of $14,329 allowed the Robbinsville Township Fire Department to purchase 65 respirators and filters, 45 reusable coveralls and 75 reusable goggles, as well as disposable PPE, including 750 isolation gowns and 3,000 surgical masks.\r\n                                                       ###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=407947", "Smith votes to sustain & boost Postal Service in critical times", "2020-08-22", "2020", "2020-08", "Republican", "House", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Legislation to provide a $25 billion emergency appropriation to the U.S. Postal Service will help stabilize the post office and restore critical operations and services, said Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) who voted for the legislation and has been a consistent advocate for postal workers and customers, especially during the coronavirus pandemic.\r\nThe men and women of the postal service have been working on the frontlines during COVID-19 delivering mail, food supplies, medicines, checks and other critical items, Smith said. The USPS has faced added expensesPPE, testing, quarantine leave, overtime and sanitizing equipmentall to help sustain our embattled economy and enable the rest of us to get the products we need.\r\nSmith, who was pivotal in the reopening of the John K. Rafferty processing and distribution center in Hamilton, NJ, after it was hit and closed in the anthrax attack of 2001, said that the changes proposed by Postmaster General Louis DeJoy, would severely curtail operations and cut mail services throughout most of central New Jersey.\r\nThey are aiming to get rid of almost half of the 26 major mail processing machines just at the John K. Rafferty processing distribution center in Hamilton, alone, Smith said. Efficient and powerful equipment such as delivery bar code sorters move 40,000 pieces of mail per hour. To dismantle perfectly operating equipment delays the mail and hurts customers and commerce.\r\nSmith noted he was also fighting recent lunch-hour closures at branch offices throughout his district as the closures make it harder for postal patrons to conduct business and/or pick up their mail, he said.\r\nThe loss of personnel and machines could hamper vote by mail return as well, Smith said.\r\nIn addition to providing the $25 billon emergency appropriation, the bill Smith voted for, Delivering for America Act, HR 8015, will:\r\n Prohibit the USPS from undertaking any operational changes from what was in effect prior to January 1, 2020 that may reduce services, such as revision of service standards, closure or consolidation of facilities, or restrictions on overtime pay. \r\n Direct the USPS to reverse any initiative or action that is causing delay in mail delivery or processing.\r\n Require that election-related mailsuch as mail-in ballots and voter registration formsbe treated as first-class mail, and bars removing or decommissioning mail sorting machines and mail collection boxes available to the public or instituting a hiring freeze. \r\n Mandate that, to the maximum extent practicable, the USPS post-mark, process, and clear election mail on the day it is received.\r\n The USPS, its universal delivery network, and its postal workers and carriers are a reliable presence in communities across the nation. We must not shortchange the postal service which has proven so critical to our economy, elections and democracy, Smith said.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://vandrew.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-van-drew-visits-20-post-offices-across-8-counties-south-jersey", "Congressman Van Drew Visits 20 Post Offices Across 8 Counties in South Jersey Ahead of Crucial House USPS Vote", "2020-08-22", "2020", "2020-08", "Republican", "House", "NJ", "Jefferson Van Drew", "V000133", "vandrew.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "MAYS LANDING- Congressman Jeff Van Drew spent the week prior to a crucial United States Postal Service (USPS) vote, visiting with more than 20 postal offices across 8 counties in South Jersey. The House of Representatives is expected to vote today(8/22) on legislation that will fund the USPS ahead of November's Presidential and Federal elections.\nI visited the hard-working women and men of the USPS this week, and it only galvanized my resolve to ensure they are not used as political pawns, said Congressman Van Drew. We must ensure that they have the resources to deliver during these times to help all Americans receive their mail, which could include medicines or necessary goods.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=407941", "<span class =\"kicker\">Will continue to fight for more federal support</span>Smith welcomes NJs distribution of federal funds to Mercer and other New Jersey counties", "2020-08-20", "2020", "2020-08", "Republican", "House", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Rep. Chris Smith (NJ-04) released the attached statement following Governor Murphy's announcement of CARES Act federal funding to additional New Jersey counties.  \r\n\r\nThe federal CARES Act grants and support provided through the State to our counties today, including at least $4 million to Mercer County in my district, is critical to fighting the ongoing coronavirus threat and pushing for full recovery. I have introduced legislation which will enable government entities of less than 500,000 people, like Mercer, to get federal COVID grants directly, but until then, the state is empowered to direct federal funds to our local governments and ensure that they get as much support as possible. NJ's county governments, of every size, have been working in our communities and they need federal assistanceboth directly and through the Stateto help fight the virus and support our local economies. \r\n I not only supported the CARES Act which provided this funding, but I was pleased to cosign a letter with the full NJ Congressional Delegation to the governor asking him to make sure the administration provided part of the State's federal award to the additional 12 counties that did not get direct funding from the federal government. It has taken some time to get through the state to the counties but the federal funding is very welcomed support.\r\n The financial assistance to our localities must not end today. Thus, I will continue to advocate for my legislation, the NJ, NY, and Highly Impacted States COVID-19 Relief Fund Act, which will provide an additional $500 billion to states and municipalities based not only on their population but also on their number of confirmed COVID-19 cases.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://vandrew.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-van-drew-receives-awards-diligence-bipartisanship-congress-us", "Congressman Van Drew Receives Awards for Diligence, Bipartisanship in Congress from US Chamber", "2020-08-20", "2020", "2020-08", "Republican", "House", "NJ", "Jefferson Van Drew", "V000133", "vandrew.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "MAYS LANDING- Today, Congressman Jeff Van Drew was presented the Spirit of Enterprise and the Jefferson-Hamilton awards from the US Chamber of Commerce. The Spirit of Enterprise is given to members of Congress who vote for pro-economic growth policies while also working across the aisle to ensure those policies are enacted, and the Jefferson-Hamilton award is awarded to select Members of Congress who are the most bi-partisan in all of Congress.\nI am honored to receive these prestigious awards, said Congressman Jeff Van Drew. I will continue to fight for our people and businesses that make our community and our nation thrive, they deserve that.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=407937", "Rep. Smith on USPS Postmaster General's reversal of proposed changes", "2020-08-18", "2020", "2020-08", "Republican", "House", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), who has been pushing for more assistance for United States Postal Service (USPS) workers since April to address the myriad of COVID-19 challenges they face, welcomed today's announcement by the USPS Postmaster General to reverse his proposed changes that could have negatively impacted postal operations.\r\n I am grateful that the Postmaster General has reversed course on the proposed changes. And while I am glad for the postponement, we still need and I continue to support increased funding to help stabilize the Postal Service and ensure it can properly process the surge of ballots expected this fall.\r\nSmith noted that in New Jersey, the July primary was conducted mainly through the vote-by-mail process (VBM), as will the general election--even though county clerks, county governing bodies, and the post office have expressed serious concerns about a November VBM.\r\n I share those concerns but we must be committed and determined to protect the integrity of the voting process, he said. During the COVID-19 restrictions we are living under, if we are going to have a secure, vote-by-mail election, our Nation needs a robust and healthy United States Postal Service.\r\n For months I have been pressing postal officials and congressional leadership for added support and an appropriation of at least $25 billion for the Postal Service to alleviate some of the strain and help us meet the new demands, including the expected influx of ballots. We must provide the funding and equipment needed to allow postal workers to do their jobs, and that includes processing voters' ballots.\r\n Putting the brakes on this ill-conceived plan was a good decision, but we have to do more. In the midst of the pandemic the Postal Service has proven again to be a steadfast presence in our neighborhoods, delivering medicines, checks, food items and more.\r\n I continue to believe we must not shortchange USPS operations and must work together to ensure that the USPS, and the brave men and women on the frontlines of postal operations, are fully supported in their work which is fundamental to our economy and democracy.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=407935", "Smiths early and ongoing support of the USPS", "2020-08-17", "2020", "2020-08", "Republican", "House", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Rep. Chris Smith, an early and strong advocate of increased appropriations and enhanced safety protocols at the United States Postal Service (USPS), said he will continue to speak out for funding reforms that will help stabilize the post office and ensure it can properly process the surge of ballots anticipated this fall.\r\nSmith noted that in New Jersey, the general election will be conducted primarily through the vote-by-mail process (VBM)similar to the primaryeven though county clerks, county governing bodies, and the post office have expressed grave concerns about a November VBM. \r\nSmith shares those concerns but is committed to working to protect the integrity of the voting process, he said. \r\nA critical aspect of securing our elections is ensuring our Nation has a robust and healthy United States Postal Service, Smith said. In the current time of COVID-19 stay-at-home orders, our economy and elections are even more reliant upon a strongly supported USPS, he added.\r\nHaving voted for HR 2legislation that recently passed the House to provide $25 billion in additional funding for the USPSI believe we must provide the backing and equipment needed so postal workers can safely and effectively do their jobs which includes processing voters' ballots.\r\nIn a series of pointed letters and similar conference call meetings over the last several months and dating as far back as April, Smith began pushing regional and national postal officials, as well as top Republican negotiators, to provide much needed relief to keep this important service fully operational.\r\nIn a May 5th letter to Republican COVID-funding negotiatorsHouse Republican Leader Kevin McCarthy and Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and Treasury Secretary Steve MnuchinSmith joined other Republican congressmen and women urging an appropriation of at least $25 billion to the Postal Service to alleviate some of the strain caused by the pandemic.\r\nIn his April 9th letter, Smith pressed for enhanced safety protocols saying, postal workers are a reliable presence in neighborhoods and help ensure the delivery of mail, medicines, food items and checksand thus postal workers are particularly vulnerable to exposure and need full protections.\r\nIn his July 24th letters addressed to US Postmaster General Louis DeJoy, Smith highlighted serious problems my constituents have experienced regarding mail delivery and questioned disruptive administrative changes reportedly under review by the US Postmaster General.\r\nI remain a strong supporter of proposals to provide $25 billion for the USPS and will continue to push for more COVID-19 safeguards for postal employees, Smith said. \r\nWe must not shortchange USPS operations and must work together to ensure that the USPS, and the brave men and women on the frontlines of postal operations, are fully supported in their work which is fundamental to our economy and democracy. \r\nSmith 2020 letters in support of the USPS 1) July 24, 2020 Smith Letter to Post Master General Dejoy RE Concerns on Proposed Changes; 2) July 14, 2020 Smith Letter to USPS.s. NJ Manager RE Delivery and Support Problems; (3) June 08, 2020 Smith Letter Follow up on USPS Meeting; (4) May 05, 2020 Letter to House Leadership Urging USPS Support and Relief; and (5) April 09, 2020 Smith Letter to USPS Ross-Rawlins re Safety Concerns \r\n###\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://vandrew.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-jeff-van-drew-statement-current-outstanding-national-issues", "Congressman Jeff Van Drew Statement on Current Outstanding National Issues", "2020-08-17", "2020", "2020-08", "Republican", "House", "NJ", "Jefferson Van Drew", "V000133", "vandrew.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "MAYS LANDING- Today, Congressman Jeff Van Drew issued the following statement in response to numerous outstanding issues of national importance that remain unresolved.\nThe American people deserve representatives in Congress who work 24 hours a day and 7 days a week to come up with a deal that includes making sure unemployment issues are resolved, hazard pay for essential employees is passed, new direct stimulus payments to individuals are made, and the Postal Service is operating efficiently and effectively.\nStop the blame game. We can work together to get this done and we should not leave Washington until all of these important issues are fixed.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://vandrew.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-jeff-van-drew-statement-ongoing-postal-service-issues", "Congressman Jeff Van Drew Statement on Ongoing Postal Service Issues", "2020-08-16", "2020", "2020-08", "Republican", "House", "NJ", "Jefferson Van Drew", "V000133", "vandrew.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "MAYS LANDING- Today, Congressman Jeff Van Drew requested House leadership bring members back to Washington to deal with the ongoing United States Postal Service issues.\n\"The United States Postal Service is overworked and under-funded. I am asking that leadership bring us back into session to deal with the ongoing issues so that we can ensure they have the necessary resources for them to continue their operations, said Congressman Jeff Van Drew. We need to be back in Washington to come together for the American people for a compromise for the Postal Service. Bring us back so they can continue their service.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=407944", "<span class =\"kicker\">The Independent news article on vet Smith honored</span>'50 years after actions in Vietnam, hero medic receives second Silver Star'", "2020-08-15", "2020", "2020-08", "Republican", "House", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Vietnam War combat Army medic and Monmouth County resident Bart Fabian has been presented with his second Silver Star medal for actions he took on April 13, 1969.\r\nThe medal was recently presented to Fabian by U.S Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ). Fabian was a resident of Freehold Township from 1990 to 2019, before he moved to Aberdeen Township.This is the second Silver Star awarded to Fabian. He received his first Silver Star for his heroism during an ambush by the North Vietnamese on Jan. 11, 1969, according to a press release from Smith's office.\r\nFabian had previously been awarded two Bronze Stars, two Purple Hearts and an Army Commendation Medal with Valor.\r\nBart Doc' Fabian is a hero for all ages, earning the Silver Star not once, but twice. He routinely went above and beyond the call, protecting injured soldiers who were under attack, Smith said. Mr. Fabian's actions on April 13, 1969, which account for the second Silver Star, are truly courageous, heroic and the mark of a natural leader.\r\nSmith added, How does a man under gunfire find that kind of grit to do something absolutely astonishing? We are talking about a man who put his own life at risk, repeatedly, to defend injured soldiers who were being targeted by the enemy.\r\nThe record shows he saved 10 U.S. soldiers and stopped two enemy soldiers who were trying to kill wounded GIs. In an era when people admire fictional superheroes and Hollywood stars portraying heroes, Doc Fabian is a genuine uncontested hero.\r\nAfter more than two years of Smith working with the Army, Secretary of the Army Ryan D. McCarthy ordered Fabian to be recognized For gallantry in action against an armed enemy of the United States while serving in his outfit, Troop A, 1st Squadron, 11th Armored Calvary Regiment, II Field Force Vietnam.\r\nRecounting that April day,Fabian said the battle raged on for 90 minutes. He lost six from his troop, including one of his closest buddies, and 19 in total, including the other medic.\r\nWe got beat up pretty bad that day, Fabian said. It was a bad day for the good guys.\r\nThe day after the battle, Fabian's commander said he would be recommended for the Silver Star, but it never came, according to the press release.\r\nI decided to forget about it, Fabian said. I didn't want to promote myself. It was a bad day. The next day we were right back in it.\r\nThat changed in 2018 at a reunion with fellow veterans who urged him to seek the medal, according to the press release.\r\nA family member contacted Smith and asked the congressman to help look into the matter. Smith helped coordinate eyewitness statements from Sgt. John J. Sorich III, Sgt. Joseph L. Coopet Jr. and Lt. Col. Richard A. Belcher, according to the press release.\r\nThe Silver Star is awarded to a person who, while serving in the U.S. Army, is cited for gallantry in action against an enemy of the United States while engaged in military operations involving conflict with an opposing foreign force. The required gallantry must have been performed with marked distinction, according to the press release.\r\nMembers of the awardsboard unanimously recommended approval, with some making handwritten notations of Fabian's actions.\r\nWrote Lt. Gen. John W. Woodmansee Jr., who also saw combat in Vietnam,  Doc' Fabian joins the illustrious list of medics who risk their lives saving others.  The award of the Silver Star is certainly deserved.  On 13 April 1969 he saved numerous lives in the middle of a battle  an incredible display of courage and competence. When we sing the National Anthem, we are singing about those Doc' Fabians in our ranks.\r\nBrig. Gen John W. Nicholson (ret.) said, He treated more than 10 wounded soldiers and recovered them and their KIA buddies. He voluntarily performed these heroic and life-saving actions while 19 fellow U.S. soldiers were killed in the same action.  His bravery was fearless, determined and voluntary, despite desperate odds  I highly recommend approval of this award.\r\nLt. Gen. Thomas Griffin determined that Fabian's actions on 13 April 1969 absolutely meet the standard for this award  His repeated exposure to enemy fire while rescuing his fellow soldiers  and engaging the enemy over a long period of time  are well above the call of duty. I wholeheartedly recommended approval!\r\nMaj. Gen. Leroy Newton Suddath Jr. (ret.) said, This is the best documentation I have ever seen.\r\nPerhaps we are not finished honoring the life and heroic acts of Doc Fabian, Smith said, noting that several of the general officers who reviewed and approved the Silver Star for the April 13, 1969 action believed he might be entitled to an even higher medal.\r\nTwo of the general officers suggested he might be deserving of the Distinguished Service Cross. Without a doubt, his actions were extraordinary heroism, the congressman said.\r\nThis article was originally published on page 1 of the Aug. 12 print edition of the News Transcript and can be found online at:\r\nhttps://centraljersey.com/2020/08/06/50-years-after-actions-in-vietnam-hero-medic-receives-silver-star/", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://vandrew.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-jeff-van-drew-statement-governor-murphy-imposition-all-mail-voting", "Congressman Jeff Van Drew Statement on Governor Murphy Imposition of All Mail-In Voting", "2020-08-14", "2020", "2020-08", "Republican", "House", "NJ", "Jefferson Van Drew", "V000133", "vandrew.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "MAYS LANDING- Today, Congressman Jeff Van Drew blasted the decision of Governor Murphy to require all voting this November General Election be done by mail. Any ballots cast in-person will be provisional, and not immediately counted.\nGovernor Murphy is unilaterally threatening the integrity of this election. He continues to decide which science he agrees with and ignores what he does not; just yesterday, Dr. Anthony Fauci stated that in-person voting can be done safely, said Congressman Van Drew. Mail-in voting should be a part of a strategy to ensure safety, but allowing for a singular process that is time-consuming, unreliable and creates the potential for fraud is completely unacceptable.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=407926", "Smith throws first pitch at Babe Ruth State Tournament", "2020-08-13", "2020", "2020-08", "Republican", "House", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Rep. Chris Smith (NJ-04) tossed out the traditional first pitch at the Babe Ruth State Championship doubleheader featuring Hamilton/Northern Burlington squaring off against Atlantic Shore in the 2020 Southern NJ 15-year-old State Tournament Aug. 12.\r\nIt was good to get on the field with the Hamilton/Northern Burlington team and toss that first pitch, said Smith, who for a number of years played inthe annual Congressional Baseball Game. Last night's game one was a come-from-behind thriller, but unfortunately we couldn't take game two. Still, it was a great night of baseball and the kids should be proud.\r\n Smith took to the mound after the National Anthem as the 15-year-old all-stars from Atlantic Shore and Hamilton/N. Burlington watched his wind-up and delivery with interest. The congressman's over-the-plate pitch was greeted by a round of applause. The WBCBSports.com announcer Keith Noonan, described the pitch as Congressman Chris Smith came out and threw the first pitch and it was absolutely perfect. Right down the middle with some speed. Co-announcer Joe O'Gorman said, If you see a guy with a little grey hair take the mound for Hamilton-Northern Burlington, be a little suspicious today.\r\n Atlantic Shore, the all-stars from Atlantic County, won the State Championship with a 8-3 victory in game two of the double header. Hamilton/Northern Burlington forced the second game with a come-from-behind 7-6 win in the first game. PHOTO ON RIGHT: Observers said Smith threw a strike down the middle. \r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=407921", "<span class =\"kicker\">Smith appears on Fox News Channel to respond to Chinese dictatorship sanctioning him</span>'State Dept. condemns Chinese sanctions '", "2020-08-10", "2020", "2020-08", "Republican", "House", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Adam Shaw - Fox News The State Departmenton Tuesday condemned China's imposition of sanctions on a number of U.S. senators and called it an attempt by Beijing to extend authoritarian rule beyond its borders.\r\n\r\n\r\nWe condemn these actions, which indicate the Chinese Communist Party has no tolerance for public discussion of human rights and freedom of expression both within and beyond its borders, a State Department spokesperson said.\r\n\r\n\r\nChina announcedon Monday that it would impose sanctions on 11 U.S. citizens -- including Sens. Ted Cruz, R-Texas; Marco Rubio, R-Fla.; Josh Hawley, R-Mo., Tom Cotton, R-Ark., and Pat Toomey, R-Pa. The others sanctioned by the Chinese include Rep. Chris Smith, R-N.J., Human Rights Watch Executive Director Kenneth Noth and Derek Mitchell, President of the National Democratic Institute.\r\n\r\nWatch the latest video at foxnews.com\r\nIt did not specify what the sanctions were, but Foreign Ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian said the 11 had performed badly on issues concerning Hong Kong, where the Chinese have been engaged in an incursion on long-held freedoms in the territory after it passed a national security law to deal with protests.\r\nThe U.S. has respondedto the crackdown with a number of measures, and last week announced it was sanctioning Hong Kong Executive Carrie Lam and a number of other top officials over their role in Beijing's incursions.\r\nWe condemn indictments against American citizens for exercising the right to free expression, the State Department said. We reject Beijing's attempt to extend authoritarian rule beyond its borders. These measures are not for national security but intended to intimidate and silence free speech both inside and outside Hong Kong.\r\nLawmakers targeted by the sanctions reacted in a similar way.\r\nThese toothless sanctions won't have much effect on me, but that's because they were never about me in the first place, Cotton said in aFox News op-ed. They're meant to scare potential critics of theChinese Communist Partyinto shameful silence and even complicity. The message is clear: the Party is always watching and ready to punish its enemies.\r\nFox News' Rich Edson and The Associated Presscontributed to this report.\r\nThe above texts are excerpted. The original can be found online here:\r\nhttps://www.foxnews.com/politics/state-dept-chinese-sanctions-on-sens-cruz-hawley-cotton-authoritarian-ruleThe video aired live on Aug. 10 and can be found by playing the above embed, or by clicking here:\r\nhttps://video.foxnews.com/v/6179961060001#sp=show-clips", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://vandrew.house.gov/media/press-releases/congressman-jeff-van-drew-blasts-decision-close-fort-mott", "Congressman Jeff Van Drew Blasts Decision to Close Fort Mott", "2020-08-10", "2020", "2020-08", "Republican", "House", "NJ", "Jefferson Van Drew", "V000133", "vandrew.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "SALEM COUNTY, NJ- Today, Congressman Jeff Van Drew decried the decision to close Fort Mott in Salem County, New Jersey indefinitely. The State Park Service has advised visitors to head to a different park, which is an approximate 40-minute drive away. While Fort Mott is an important site in the history of our State, the people of Salem County also heavily depend on the park for its recreational opportunities and scenic vistas.\nFinns Point National Cemetery, which has the only active Department of Veterans Affairs burial site in New Jersey, and inters veterans going back to the Civil War, is only accessible by traveling through Fort Mott. This piece of history will undoubtedly see a decrease in visitors due to the Fort Mott closure.\nOnce again, Governor Murphy is doing his best to make life more painful for people inSouth Jersey, said Congressman Van Drew. This piece of history, and the well-being it also offers to folks who are looking for that during a pandemic is much-needed. Reopen Fort Mott.\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=407925", "<span class =\"kicker\">Belmar TAPInto article on Smith's veterans event</span>'Congressman Smith, Veterans Administration Team Up for Telephone Claims Clinic'", "2020-08-08", "2020", "2020-08", "Republican", "House", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "By TAPINTO BELMAR/LAKE COMO STAFF -  \r\nRep. Chris Smith, in conjunction with the Veterans Administration, will host a Telephone Claims Clinic for veterans, military retirees and their family members, and active-duty service members on August 18 and 19.\r\nDuring the clinic, veterans will be able to talk on the phone with a VA representative about their VA benefits and entitlements, including pension and health. The privateappointments will be set up in advance by members of Smith's staff.\r\nWhile the congressman has hosted in-person clinics with the VA in the past, they have turned to more telephone appointments to safely serve veterans' needs in the current COVID-19 environment.  \r\n\r\nIt's vitally important that veterans, active-duty military, military retirees and their dependents have access to their VA services during the COVID-19 pandemic, said Smith (R-4thDistrict), whose congressional district includes Belmar and Lake Como.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nHealth needs don't take a hiatus, not for COVID-19 or anything else.This Telephone Claims Clinic offers a critical opportunity for veterans to reach and speak with the appropriate officials at the VA regarding their claims and benefits  and my staff and I will be able to help and ensure access and added assistance, if needed, on each claim.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nTo make an appointment for the August 18 and 19 clinic, call Smith's office at 609-585-7878 by Tuesday, August 11. The offices are open Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and are open for visits by appointment.\r\nThis article was originally published on Aug. 8, 2020 and can be found online at:\r\nhttps://www.tapinto.net/towns/belmar-slash-lake-como/sections/military-and-veterans/articles/congressman-smith-veterans-administration-team-up-for-telephone-claims-clinic", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=407917", "<span class =\"kicker\">Amendment increases Lyme research by $4M</span>House approves Chris Smith amendment for Lyme disease funding increase", "2020-08-07", "2020", "2020-08", "Republican", "House", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "The House of Representatives passed an amendment authored by Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) to boost Lyme disease research funding at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) just before the end of the July session.\r\nMy amendment adds $4 million, for a total of $20 million, for Lyme disease research at the CDC for FY 2021. Just three years ago CDC's Lyme budget was only $11.7 million, said Smith, a longtime leader on Lyme as co-chair of the bipartisan Lyme Disease Caucus in Congress with Rep. Collin Peterson (D-MN). The increase in funding achieved through my amendment will help CDC develop better diagnostic tests for Lyme, expand tick surveillance activities across the US and strengthen the federal government's overall strategy to combat Lyme.\r\nRep. Peterson, is the lead Democrat cosponsor of the Smith Amendment which has also been cosponsored by Reps. Elise Stefanik (R-NY), Antonio Delgado (D-NY), Max Rose (D-NY), and Raul Grijalva (D-AZ).\r\nSmith said the increased funding, which passed July 30 is good news for the estimated 800,000+ people in New Jersey who have contracted Lyme over the past 20 years. New Jersey has one of the highest amounts of Lyme cases in the nation.\r\nPat Smith (no relation to Rep. Smith), President of the Lyme Disease Association, a leading national Lyme advocacy group founded in 1991 and headquartered in Jackson, NJ, said Rep. Smith's funding amendment is an important step in the fight to reign in Lyme disease.\r\n The rising case numbers and increasing spread of tick-borne diseases are alarming and require a sustained focus from Congress to try to control this epidemic, said Pat Smith.\r\nWe are grateful to Congressman Smith for his continued dedication to this effort and his success along with his colleagues to acquire an additional $4M in funding for Lyme disease and other tick-borne diseases. In these difficult times for our country, that is an outstanding accomplishment, she said.\r\n\r\n\r\n    \r\n        \r\n            \r\n        \r\n    \r\n\r\n\r\nPHOTO: Rep. Chris Smith is shown holding a copy of the National Institutes of Health's (NIH) new national research strategy to combat Lyme disease at a press conference Smith held after its release in October. LDA President Pat Smith, at left, prepares to speak.\r\nEarlier in July, the House agreed to another Smith Lyme disease amendment to investigate possible origins of modern-day Lyme. The amendment mandating a GAO investigation into possible use of ticks in a Department of Defense bioweapons program could shed more light on the massive increase in modern-day Lyme disease in recent years, and its heavier concentration in certain regions in the country. Said Smith, If the investigation concludes our government's bioweapons program did not contribute to the proliferation of Lyme, we turn the page. If it did, hopefully this investigation and research will contribute to a cure.\r\nRep. Smith introduced the House version of the recently enacted law, the TICK Act (Ticks: Identify, Control, Knockout ActHR 3073), which implements a whole of government approach to combat Lyme disease. With Lyme disease and other tick-borne diseases exploding in the United Statesthere are an estimated 300,000 to 427,000 new cases each year and 10-20 percent of all patients are suffering from chronic Lyme disease the federal government needs to provide more funding for research, surveillance, treatments and a cure, he said.\r\nEnacted in December as part of the Fiscal Year 2020 omnibus appropriations bill, the Tick Act calls for a national strategy to aggressively fight Lyme disease and authorizes an additional $150 million to increase funding for Lyme research, prevention and treatment programs. Smith said the bill provides $50 million over five years to codify the Regional Centers of Excellence in Vector Borne Disease which have led the scientific response against tick-borne diseases.And the bill authorizes new CDC grants for a total of $100 million over five years, to build a public health infrastructure for Lyme and other tick-borne diseases.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=407915", "<span class =\"kicker\">Asbury Park Press page 1 story on Monmouth County vet whom Rep. Smith presented medal</span>'Vietnam War medic gets Silver Star 51 years after defending wounded GIs' lives'", "2020-08-06", "2020", "2020-08", "Republican", "House", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "The Brooklyn native, who lives in Aberdeen today, was 20 years old then. He's 71 now, and the memory remains fresh. Some things, you don't forget. You can't. \r\nI remember feeling such rage  not that my life was threatened, but I just remember thinking, The guy is half dead, and this is the guy you shoot?' Fabian said. All I had was a clip with eight bullets in it. I started working on this other guy and another (Viet Cong) came out of a bunker and started firing, so I eliminated him. The guy who I was working on survived, and I brought him back.\r\nDuring training, instructors used to pound a mantra into Army medics.\r\nYour job is to get them onto the helicopter breathing and we'll do the rest, Fabian recited. Most of the people I put onto the helicopter were still breathing, but you usually don't find out if they survived. You like to think that they did.\r\nHeroes honored:Medal of Honor display in Holmdel is nation's largest\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nDoc treated at least 10 men that day, and most of them made it after a 90-minute fight that claimed the lives of 19 Americans. The next day, his commander told him he would be recommended for the Silver Star, the Armed Forces' third-highestpersonal decorationforvalorin combat.\r\nIt took 51 years, but last month, Doc Fabian finally received the medal.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n 'It's really unusual' \r\nFabian, who was drafted into the Army, didn't choose to be a medic. He was assigned the position with the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment, and he never found out why. It's a difficult job that he performed with distinction, earning two Silver Stars, two Bronze Stars, two Purple Hearts and an Army Commendation Medal (ACM) with Valor.\r\nWhen you look at the accomplishments in your life you look at that and say to yourself, That's not bad; I guess I did OK,' he said.\r\nThe first Silver Star was bestowed for his actions during an ambush on Jan. 11, 1969. He recalled responding to a fallen soldier who had been burned all over, he had shrapnel all over, he had a punctured lung.\r\nIt was a welcome-to-war moment.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nV-E Day 75th anniversary:How Asbury Park doctor liberated two Nazi death camps\r\nI'm working on him, and I'm a 19-year-old from Brooklyn who six months ago was hanging out in front of a candy store, Fabian said.\r\nHis commanding officer that day, 1st Lt.Harold Fritz, received the Medal of Honor. Reached by phone at his Illinois home, Fritz, now a retired colonel, praised Fabian's gallantry.\r\n\r\nIt's really unusual for a medic to get a Silver Star, and in this case two Silver Stars. That's unbelievable, Fritz said. The enemy's object is to shoot as many medics as they can because it's demoralizing, so there was a lot of fire directed at Doc.\r\nIt was nerve-fraying duty, but Fabian never portrayed that in his letters home to Brooklyn.\r\nHe would write things like, Things aren't bad here, it's OK' said brother Mark Fabian, who also served duringVietnam and now lives in Manalapan. He'd send us a picture of him sunbathing alongside a tank. He didn't want my mother to worry.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n 'A genuine hero' \r\nAfter the April 13 ambush, his second in the span of three months, Bart Fabian forgot about the second Silver Star he was promised.\r\nTo be honest, I was just numb, he said.\r\nWhy did Army brass never follow up? Unfortunately, Fritz said, these things sometimes fall through the cracks when there are changes in command.\r\nMillstone World War II veteran's big surprise:Home makeover while he was away\r\n\r\nOnly decades later, during Fabian's reunions with fellow soldiers, did the subject of the promised medal come up. Everyone, including Col. Fritz, encouraged him to pursue it.\r\nI said, Doc, you owe it to yourself, the men you saved, the men who died in that battle and to the nation, to show that there's valor in those who served in the U.S. Armed Forces,' Fritz said. \r\nWord reached retired Brig. Gen. John Bahnsen, who helped see it through. So on July 18, during a ceremony in Freehold where Fabian lived for many yearswhile running a trucking company U.S. Rep. Chris Smith, R-N.J., presented him with the Silver Star.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nThe record shows that Doc Fabian saved 10 U.S. soldiers, and stopped two enemy soldiers who were trying to kill wounded GIs, said Smith, who helped get Fabian the med. In an era when people admire fictional superheroes and Hollywood stars portraying heroes, Doc Fabian is a genuine uncontested hero.\r\nHis brother agrees.\r\nThis is something I always wanted for him, Mark Fabian said. It's just incredible. Like the Congressman said, This is what movies are made of.' Updates on how the coronavirus is affecting your community and the nation\r\nRecently, Col. Fritz said, he was advising a young Marine who was training to be a medic. One exemplar came to mind.\r\nI emphasized if you're going to be a medic, you're really going to be counted on by people to be there when they need you, Fritz said. I told them about Doc Fabian, how this is what happens, and this is how you react. You do the right thing.\r\nJerry Carino is community columnist for the Asbury Park Press, focusing on the Jersey Shore's interesting people, inspiring stories and pressing issues.", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=407914", "<span class =\"kicker\">Aug. 11 sign-up deadline</span>VA, Smith team up on Telephone Claims Clinic", "2020-08-05", "2020", "2020-08", "Republican", "House", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "U.S. Rep. Chris Smith (NJ-04), in conjunction with the Veterans Administration (VA), will host a VA Telephone Claims Clinic for vets, military retirees and their family members, and active duty service members on August 18 and 19, 2020.  \r\n\r\n It's vitally important that veterans, active duty military, military retirees and their dependents have access to their VA services during the COVID-19 pandemic, Smith said. Health needs don't take a hiatus, not for COVID-19 or anything else.This telephone claims clinic' offers a critical opportunity for veterans to reach and speak with the appropriate officials at the VA regarding their claims and benefitsand my staff and I will be able to help and ensure access and added assistance, if needed, on each claim. \r\n   The deadline to sign up is Aug. 11.\r\n Smith has hosted in-person clinics with the VA in the past, but in the current COVID-19 environment and accompanying precautions, the VA has turned to more telephone appointments to safely serve veterans' needs. Therefore, Smith's office makes appointments for private telephone conferences between the veterans and a VA representative.\r\n To make an appointment for the Aug. 18-19 VA Telephone Claims Clinic, call Smith's office at (609) 585-7878 by Aug. 11. The offices are open Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and are open for visits by appointment.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=407916", "<span class =\"kicker\">TapInto Hamilton article on Smith's lead removal bill</span>'Rep. Smith Working to Get the Lead Out of Drinking Water'", "2020-08-05", "2020", "2020-08", "Republican", "House", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "TapInto Hamilton article on Smith's lead removal bill'Rep. Smith Working to Get the Lead Out of Drinking Water' \r\n   \r\n    \r\n       \r\n      \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      f \r\n      t \r\n      #\r\n      e\r\n      \r\n      \r\n    \r\n    \r\n      \r\n        HAMILTON, NJ ,\r\n        Aug 5, 2020\r\n      \r\n       \r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n\r\n  \r\n      \r\n    \r\n\r\n  \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      \r\n      \r\n      By TAPINTO HAMILTON/ROBBINSVILLE STAFF  \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nCongressman Chris Smith (NJ-4) has introducedtheGet the Lead Out Act(HR 7918) to authorize $14 billion over two years and require every utility in America to develop a plan to identify and remove lead pipes that threaten residents, especially children, from the dangers of lead.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nSmith said this measure builds upon his efforts toalleviate the threat of lead in drinking water systems in his district and other areas of New Jersey.\r\nFor every family and every household, clean drinking water is an essential necessity of everyday living, said Smith.People need to know the water from the kitchen tap they drink or cook with is clean and safe for themselves and their families. Lead service line replacement is needed to give them that peace of mind.Local, state and federal government must work together to make that a reality.   \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nCredits: TAPinto.net File Photo\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\"This bill will help get the lead out' of drinking water in towns like Trenton and Hamilton in my district, throughout New Jersey and across the country,\" Smith added to \"tackle this threat tohuman healthwhichcan cause long-term harm in adults and which presents a particular danger tochildren,who are especially vulnerable to lead,\r\nTheGet the Lead Out Actdirects all community water systems across the US to develop a plan to inventory and replace all lead service lines (LSLs) in their system within 10 years. The plan must be submitted to the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for approval.\r\nTo help community water systems afford these necessary upgrades, thebill authorizes nearly $14 billion over two years with $13 billion targeted directly to the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF). The DWSRF is a federal-state partnership fund and a main source of funding that allows states to receive monies from EPA and in turn offer low interest loansand even forgivable loansto local water systems to achieve healthy drinking water.\r\nThe bill also provides $180 million for the Lead Reduction Grant Program at the EPA, a competitive grant program for schools, states, municipalities, tribal water systems and community water systems.Once awarded, these funds can be used for corrosion control and replacing lead service lines as well.\r\nSmith said, Congress must act on this critical legislation that's long overdue and can make drinking water safer for generations of Americans.  \r\n\r\n\r\nThis article was published online by TAPInto Hamilton and can be found online at:\r\nhttps://www.tapinto.net/towns/hamilton-slash-robbinsville/sections/government/articles/rep-smith-working-to-get-the-lead-out-of-drinking-water  \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n  \r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      f \r\n      t \r\n      #\r\n      e", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=407895", "Smith & Cuellar introduce Get the Lead Out bill to fund $14 billion for drinking water clean-up and infrastructure projects", "2020-08-03", "2020", "2020-08", "Republican", "House", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Congressman Chris Smith (R-NJ), who has been working to help alleviate the threat of lead in drinking water systems in his district and other areas of New Jersey, has partnered with Congressman Henry Cuellar (D-TX) to introduce the Get the Lead Out Act (HR 7918) which would authorize $14 billion over two years and require every utility in America to develop a plan to identify and remove lead pipes that threaten residents, especially children, from the dangers of lead.\r\n For every family and every household, clean drinking water is an essential necessity of everyday living, said Smith, prime sponsor of the bill. People need to know the water from the kitchen tap they drink or cook with is clean and safe for themselves and their families. Lead service line replacement is needed to give them that peace of mind. Local, state and federal government must work together to make that a reality. This bill will help get the lead out' of drinking water in towns like Trenton and Hamilton in my district, throughout New Jersey and across the country.  \r\n\r\n Rep. Cuellar and I are teaming up to advance a bipartisan plan to tackle this threat to human healthwhich can cause long-term harm in adults and which presents a particular danger to children, who are especially vulnerable to lead, Smith said.\r\n No community should have to worry that their drinking water is tainted with lead. Any amount of lead in drinking water can have serious developmental and health impacts for children, said Cuellar.This legislation will help utility companies invest in critical infrastructure plans and remove dangerous chemicals from our communities' water.I am committed to protecting our children and families by limiting their exposure to lead and making sure they have access to safe drinking water. I want to thank Congressman Smith for his leadership on this issue.\r\n The Smith-Cuellar Get the Lead Out Act directs all community water systems across the US to develop a plan to inventory and replace all lead service lines (LSLs) in their system within 10 years. The plan must be submitted to the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for approval.\r\n To help community water systems afford these necessary upgrades, the Smith-Cuellar bill authorizes nearly $14 billion over two years with $13 billion targeted directly to the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF). The DWSRF is a federal-state partnership fund and a main source of funding that allows states to receive monies from EPA and in turn offer low interest loansand even forgivable loansto local water systems to achieve healthy drinking water.\r\n The bill also provides $180 million for the Lead Reduction Grant Program at the EPA, a competitive grant program for schools, states, municipalities, tribal water systems and community water systems.Once awarded, these funds can be used for corrosion control and replacing lead service lines as well.\r\n Smith said, Congress must act on this critical legislation that's long overdue and can make drinking water safer for generations of Americans.\r\n###", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=407911", "<span class =\"kicker\">APP article on Braeden Bradford</span>'Braeden Bradforth: Settlement overshadows anniversary of Neptune football player's death'", "2020-08-03", "2020", "2020-08", "Republican", "House", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "APP article on Braeden Bradford'Braeden Bradforth: Settlement overshadows anniversary of Neptune football player's death'  \r\n   \r\n    \r\n       \r\n      \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      f \r\n      t \r\n      #\r\n      e\r\n      \r\n      \r\n    \r\n    \r\n      \r\n        Washington,\r\n        Aug 3, 2020\r\n      \r\n       \r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n    \r\n    \r\n  \r\n\r\n  \r\n      \r\n    \r\n\r\n  \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      \r\n      \r\n      By Stephen Edelson, Asbury Park Press Staff Writer -\n  I remember the first time I met Joanne Atkins-Ingram some 20 months ago, listening to her talk about things like answers, accountability and action even as she recounted details from the worst day of her life.\n  Saturday marked the second anniversary of the passing of her son, former Neptune High School football standout Braeden Bradforth, who died of exertional heatstroke during a conditioning test at Garden City Community College in Garden City, Kansas.\n  But the moving tributes were somewhat overshadowed by Garden City's ill-timed announcement of a settlement with the family, leaving Atkins-Ingram emotionally drained by the time we spoke on Sunday evening.\n  In fact, the only part of the statement the school released that really interested her was the part about the on-campus memorial  a tree with a plaque at the base of it  that had been her most important request.\n  Joanne Atkins-Ingram holds up the jersey worn by her son, former Neptune standout Braeden Bradforth, who died of exertional heat stroke on Aug. 1, 2018 at Garden City Community College in Kansas.\n  I wanted that in place and solidified before we agreed to anything, she said. I just needed his name there so when people walk by that tree and Google him and see his story, and have that conversation at home about staying hydrated.\n  It's been hard enough that we had to have an anniversary. Now the fact that everyone is focused on the money instead of the issue at hand makes it disgusting to me.\n  Atkins-Ingram planning to set up a foundation in Braeden's name with money from the $500,000 settlement. The school was reportedly protected from a larger amound by the Kansas legal doctrine of qualified immunity, which shields government officials from being held personally liable for monetary damages so long as they did not violate clearly established\" laws.\n  But it's never been about the money.\n  As Garden City spend months stonewalling repeated requests for information about the details of that hot, humid evening, when Bradforth, a 315-pound lineman was required to complete a 50-yard sprint some 36 times, Atkins-Ingram continued to press for answers.\n  When the pressure she applied finally resulted in the school hiring a law firm to conduct an independent investigation, the report identified a 'striking lack of leadership\" that led to a series of missteps that contributed to Bradforth's death.\n  Former Neptune football player Braeden Bradforth died playing at a junior college in Kansas last summer. Braeden's mother, JoAnne Atkins-Ingram, and Avon attorney Jill Greene have recently returned from Kansas, after being stonewalled since last summer by the school and local authorities.\n  Avon-By-The-Sea, NJ\n  Wednesday, February 13, 2019\n  And when she was making the rounds on Capitol Hill earlier this year, it was in support of bill H.R. 4145, Braeden's Commission, the legislation sponsored by U.S. Rep. Chris Smith, R-New Jersey, that seeks to establish a panel to prevent exertional heatstroke among high school and college athletes by developing best practices for prevention, recognition and treatment.\n  \"The closure will be when we get the law passed and there's a mandate, she said. The closure will be when I know there is safety for everyone, for Division 1 and Division 3 athletes, athletes in the south and the west. Everyone.\n  It's always been about them accepting responsibility for what happened to my son and then moving forward to make sure this didn't happen to any other kids.\n  Smith said the push continues to make sure no one gets the phone call Atkins-Ingram received on the night of Aug. 1, 2018.\n  No parent should have to suffer the heartbreaking, untimely death of their child, a student-athlete, because the college and team leaders were unprepared or uninformed about the dangers of exertional heat stroke, Smith said. And no family should have to fight for information related to the death of their son or daughter, as Joanne and her family had to fight for justice for Braeden.\n  \"Now we fight on, with Joanne's love and inspirational determination leading the way for the creation of a federal Braeden's Commission so no other family will know or suffer her pain.\"\n  In New Jersey, state Sen. Vin Gopal, D-Monmouth, has introduced Braeden's Law,'  which would require school districts and public colleges to establish policies to deal with heat-related illnesses, along with independent third party investigations into student-athlete deaths related to athletic performance.\n  In a statement, Garden City Community College president Ryan Ruda said: \"We continue to extend our deepest condolences to Braeden's family and friends - there is no comparison to the grief and sorrow they have experienced over the last two years. It is the hope of college leaders, including myself, that the settlement will offer some respite to Braeden's loved ones who have suffered the most from his untimely passing.\n  While all the senitments expressed over the weekend were nice, nothing can fill the void in a mother's heart.\n  At the end of the day, my baby is gone and he's not coming back, and that's the hardest fact of all, Atkins-Ingram said.\n  It's also the reason she'll continue to push forward in Braeden's memory, just like she has for the past two years.\n  Stephen Edelson is a USA TODAY NETWORK New Jersey sports columnist who has been covering athletics in the state and at the Jersey Shore for nearly 35 years. Contact him at: @SteveEdelsonAPP; sedelson@gannettnj.com.\r\n    \r\n  \r\n  \r\n  \r\n    \r\n      f \r\n      t \r\n      #\r\n      e", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["https://vandrew.house.gov/media/press-releases/tropical-storm-isaias-information", "Tropical Storm Isaias Information", "2020-08-03", "2020", "2020-08", "Republican", "House", "NJ", "Jefferson Van Drew", "V000133", "vandrew.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "Dear Friend,\nThis is Congressman Jeff Van Drew with a brief update for you on the impending inclement weather that may impact South Jersey over the coming days.\nAs it stands now,Tropical StormIsaias is tracking up the Atlantic coastline with potential landfall in South Jersey on Tuesday,8/4/2020, with the most severe portions impacting the area in the afternoon.\nTo track the progress of the storm and updates on landfall, please follow this link to NOAA's storm tracking center.\nThe state of New Jersey Office of Emergency Management has some information on how to prepare and how to stay safe during inclement weather. Please follow this link for more information.\nAs always, our office stands by ready to assist in any way that we can. You can reach us at (202)225-6572 or online at Vandrew.House.Gov.\nSincerely,\n  \n\tCongressman Jeff Van Drew", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"], ["http://chrissmith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=407905", "<span class =\"kicker\">Asbury Park Press article on passage of Smith bill</span>'House passes 'Sami's Law,' ride-share safety bill named for slain NJ college student'", "2020-07-31", "2020", "2020-07", "Republican", "House", "NJ", "Christopher Smith", "S000522", "chrissmith.house.gov", null, null, "legacy", "By Michael L. Diamond, APP Staff Writer -  \r\nA bill named after Samantha Josephson, a college student from Robbinsville who was murdered by someone pretending to beher Uber driver, is a step closer to law.\r\nThe U.S. House of Representatives Wednesday unanimously approved a bill that in part would force ride-sharing companies like Uber and Lyft to deploy technology that would match passengers with drivers before the ride begins.\r\n\"It's bittersweet,\" Seymour Josephson, Samantha's father, said. \"We'd much rather have Samantha sitting with us here on the couch, but to create a law so nobody else gets hurt is a good thing.\"\r\n\r\n\r\nThe bill was authored by U.S. Rep. Chris Smith, R-N.J. and was metwith praise forboth sides of the aisle duringa deeply polarized time.\r\nJosephson, 21,a student at the University of South Carolina in Columbia, was killed in March 2019 after she ordered an Uber ride and, authorities said, mistakenly got intoa cardriven byNathaniel Rowland.\r\nMORE:Samantha Josephson hometown mourns 'quirky, kindhearted' girl\r\nOP-ED:Sami's Law would protect ride-share passengers from assault\r\nHer body was found in Clarendon County, South Carolina,andRowland, thena 24-year-old from that area, was charged with her murder and kidnapping. The bill awaits approval in the U.S. Senate.  \r\n\r\nAmong the provisions:\r\n \r\n    Ride-sharing companies would need to roll out technology that would match passengers with their drivers' vehicles. A drivercouldn't begin the trip until the passenger and driver verify each others identities.\r\n    It sets up a 15-member advisory council that reports to the Secretary of Transportation with safety guidance.\r\n    It makes it illegal to sell ride-share signage.\r\n    It requires the government to study the prevalence of assault and abuse of passengers and drivers.\r\n    It requires the government to examine ride-sharing companies background checks.\r\n \r\nJosephson left behind hundreds of friends and family members, who gathered in her Mercer County hometown last year to remember a woman who at once was \"kooky and laughable\" andhad earned a scholarship to attend law school atDrexel University.\r\nOn an early March morning, weeks before she was supposed to graduate,she called an Uber and got into a dark-colored Chevrolet Impala outside a bar in the Five Points District,anightlife hot spotnear the University of South Carolina.\r\nTurkey hunters eventually discovered her bodyin a rural area near a dirt road. Police later determinedshe had been stabbed to death.\r\nThis article ran on Page A-2 of the July 31, 2020 print edition of the Asbury Park Press, and can be found online at:\r\nhttps://www.app.com/story/news/crime/2020/07/29/samis-law-ride-share-safety-samantha-josephson/5540468002/", 1, "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z", "2026-03-30T12:14:52Z"]], "truncated": false, "filtered_table_rows_count": 291, "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": "Republican", "p1": "NJ", "p2": "2020"}}, "facet_results": {"party": {"name": "party", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=NJ&year=2020", "results": [{"value": "Republican", "label": "Republican", "count": 291, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?state=NJ&year=2020", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "chamber": {"name": "chamber", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=NJ&year=2020", "results": [{"value": "House", "label": "House", "count": 241, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=NJ&year=2020&chamber=House", "selected": false}, {"value": "Senate", "label": "Senate", "count": 50, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=NJ&year=2020&chamber=Senate", "selected": false}], "truncated": false}, "state": {"name": "state", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=NJ&year=2020", "results": [{"value": "NJ", "label": "NJ", "count": 291, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Republican&year=2020", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}, "year": {"name": "year", "type": "column", "hideable": false, "toggle_url": "/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=NJ&year=2020", "results": [{"value": "2020", "label": "2020", "count": 291, "toggle_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=NJ", "selected": true}], "truncated": false}}, "suggested_facets": [], "next": "2020-07-31,http~3A~2F~2Fchrissmith~2Ehouse~2Egov~2Fnews~2Fdocumentsingle~2Easpx~3FDocumentID~3D407905", "next_url": "http://dpwillis-congress-press-search.hf.space/press/releases.json?party=Republican&state=NJ&year=2020&_next=2020-07-31%2Chttp~3A~2F~2Fchrissmith~2Ehouse~2Egov~2Fnews~2Fdocumentsingle~2Easpx~3FDocumentID~3D407905&_sort_desc=date", "private": false, "allow_execute_sql": true, "query_ms": 345.67790292203426, "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"}