Press releases
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2,792 rows where chamber = "House", state = "MA" and year = 2020 sorted by date descending
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| url | title | date ▲ | year | month | party | chamber | state | member_name | bioguide_id | domain | scraper | source | date_source | text | has_text | collected_at | updated_at |
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| http://www.warren.senate.gov/newsroom/news-coverage/politico-elizabeth-warrens-next-chapter | Politico: Elizabeth Warren's next chapter | 2020-12-31 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Elizabeth Warren | W000817 | www.warren.senate.gov | legacy | December 31, 2020 Politico: Elizabeth Warren's next chapter The progressive senator is already playing the inside game to shape Biden's agenda. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez wants Nancy Pelosi and Chuck Schumer replaced, lamenting that there's no one ready to step in. Elizabeth Warren has a different approach. The Massachusetts Democrat is a member of Schumer's leadership team and is working closely with the Senate minority leader on a policy priority that could fuel the first intra-party fight with President-elect Joe Biden. A few months before the election, Warren asked Schumer to join her effort to cancel $50,000 of student loan debt for millions of Americans. The president can do it without Congress, she argues. The New York Democrat, who is up for reelection in 2022, was immediately interested. Read the full articlehere. By: Burgess Everett Source: Politico Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://trahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1922 | Congresswoman Lori Trahan Issues End of Term Report | 2020-12-30 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Lori Trahan | T000482 | trahan.house.gov | legacy | LOWELL, MA Today,Congresswoman Lori Trahan (MA-03)released her term in review report detailing key victories she secured for residents of Massachusetts' Third District during her first two years in Congress. When I took office in January 2019, it was with the promise that the concerns of hardworking families across Massachusetts' Third District would always come first,Congresswoman Trahan said. Each day, that promise drives my work in the U.S. Capitol and in our community. As this report details, we've accomplished a tremendous amount over the past two years. However, there is still much work to be done, and I look forward to continuing to deliver for Massachusetts families, workers, and small businesses as we navigate this pandemic and beyond. The report details Congresswoman Trahan's first term by the numbers, including a breakdown of her accessibility to constituents, her team's ability to successfully assist folks in need of help with a federal agency, and her performance on key legislative scorecards. It also lists solutions Trahan prioritized in response to problems experienced by folks she represents, including addressing COVID-19, strengthening education, tackling the opioid crisis, protecting the environment, and more. The report can be accessed by clickingHERE. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://neal.house.gov/2020/12/29/news-documentsingle-aspx-documentid-2043/ | Chairman Neal Statement on House Passage of the CASH Act | 2020-12-29 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Richard E. Neal | N000015 | neal.house.gov | neal | https://neal.house.gov/category/press-releases/ | scraper | Washington, DC Today, Ways and Means Committee Chairman Richard E. Neal (D-MA) released the following statement after the House of Representatives passed the Caring for Americans with Supplemental Help (CASH) Act of 2020: “House Democrats have always favored sending more substantial relief to struggling families, and the CASH Act does just that. Increasing the second round of economic impact payments to $2,000 will make a real difference for Americans experiencing extreme financial hardship. Now that the House has approved these larger checks, it is up to Senate Republicans to do the same. “Even if the CASH Act does pass the Senate and becomes law, it must not be the last COVID relief we provide to workers and families. The pandemic will not suddenly disappear when the calendar turns to 2021, and the economy will not immediately make a full recovery. Congress will need to work with the Biden Administration to create new jobs, successfully address the public health crisis, and ensure that Americans have the support they require to get back on their feet.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z |
| https://neal.house.gov/2020/12/28/news-documentsingle-aspx-documentid-1478/ | Chairman Neal Statement on President Trump’s Signing of COVID Relief Legislation | 2020-12-28 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Richard E. Neal | N000015 | neal.house.gov | neal | https://neal.house.gov/category/press-releases/ | scraper | Springfield, MA SPRINGFIELD, MA – Tonight, Ways and Means Committee Chairman Richard E. Neal (D-MA) released the following statement after President Trump signed into law the bipartisan COVID relief and omnibus spending package that Congress passed last week: “The President’s pointless delay in approving this relief legislation cost millions of Americans a week’s worth of pandemic-related unemployment assistance that they desperately need. His stalling only intensified anxiety and hardship for workers and families who are collateral damage in his political games. Now, people will need to wait even longer for direct payments and other vital assistance to arrive. President Trump made an already stressful holiday season even worse for American families.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z |
| https://trahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1915 | Congresswoman Trahan Supports CASH Act to Deliver $2,000 Checks to Americans in Need | 2020-12-28 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Lori Trahan | T000482 | trahan.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, DC Today,Congresswoman Lori Trahan (MA-03)returned to Washington to cast her vote in favor of theCaring for Americans with Supplemental Help (CASH) Act of 2020, legislation that will deliver $2,000 economic impact payments to families and individuals in need of serious relief. Passage of the legislation comes just days after House Republicansblockedan attempt to pass the bill late last week. After nine months without additional relief, $600 is simply not enough for workers and their loved ones struggling to make ends meet,said Congresswoman Trahan. The Administration's about-face and sudden agreement with us that $2,000 survival checks are long overdue is a welcome change. Now that the House has passed the bill, the President should turn his sights on Mitch McConnell and demand that he do his job. The Senate should vote immediately on the CASH Act so folks can start getting their payments as soon as possible. TheCASH Actincreases the value of economic impact payments from $600 to $2,000 for an individual and $4,000 for joint filers. It also closes theCARES Actloophole that unfairly prevented a mixed-status family from receiving a payment, even if one spouse would have been eligible as an independent filer. The same provision was included in the relief package recently signed into law, meaning mixed-status families are eligible for the original $600 economic impact payment amount and would be eligible for the increase to $2,000 for each family member with social security number if theCASH Actbecomes law. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://neal.house.gov/2020/12/26/news-documentsingle-aspx-documentid-1477/ | Neal: Millions Will Lose Their Unemployment Benefits Tomorrow if Trump Does Not Sign COVID Relief Bill | 2020-12-26 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Richard E. Neal | N000015 | neal.house.gov | neal | https://neal.house.gov/category/press-releases/ | scraper | Springfield, MA SPRINGFIELD, MA – Today, Ways and Means Committee Chairman Richard E. Neal (D-MA) released the following statement regarding the urgent need for President Trump to sign legislation Congress passed that would extend expiring pandemic-related unemployment assistance through March 14, 2021: “If President Trump does not sign the latest COVID relief package into law today, pandemic-related unemployment assistance will abruptly cut off for millions of Americans tomorrow. A failure to avert this benefits cliff would be devastating for struggling workers and their families who aren’t able to return to their jobs yet due to the ongoing public health crisis. As the economy continues to falter, folks are hanging on by a thread and desperately need this federal relief to continue so they can afford basics like food, medicine, diapers, phone bills, and housing. “The Trump Administration was directly involved in negotiations for the bipartisan COVID relief legislation that Congress passed on Monday and had agreed to the 11-week extension of this vital assistance that the package provides. It is underhanded and cruel for the President now to refuse to sign it into law and potentially end this brutal year by inflicting even more pain and suffering on families in need. Republican leadership in Congress should join in calling for the signing of this legislation – which they helped write and voted for – to extend this crucial aid.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z |
| http://www.warren.senate.gov/newsroom/news-coverage/masslive-sens-ed-markey-elizabeth-warren-oppose-springfield-biomass-project-by-palmer-renewable-energy | Masslive: Sens. Ed Markey, Elizabeth Warren oppose Springfield biomass project by Palmer Renewable Energy | 2020-12-24 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Elizabeth Warren | W000817 | www.warren.senate.gov | legacy | December 24, 2020 Masslive: Sens. Ed Markey, Elizabeth Warren oppose Springfield biomass project by Palmer Renewable Energy Massachusetts' two U.S. senators, Elizabeth Warren and Ed Markey, have asked the state to suspend and reassess the approval it gave 12 years ago for a still-unbuilt Springfield biomass plant that would take wood chips and burn them for electricity. Developer Palmer Renewable Energy said Wednesday it has already begun work at the site, 1000 Page Blvd. in East Springfield. The two Democratic senators want the project put on hold at least until the incoming Biden administration comes out with a green energy and climate change program, according to a letter sent to the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection. Read the full articlehere. By: Jim Kinney Source: Masslive Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://neal.house.gov/2020/12/24/news-documentsingle-aspx-documentid-1473/ | Chairman Neal Statement on UK-EU Post-Brexit Trade Agreement | 2020-12-24 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Richard E. Neal | N000015 | neal.house.gov | neal | https://neal.house.gov/category/press-releases/ | scraper | Springfield, MA SPRINGFIELD, MA – Today, Ways and Means Committee Chairman Richard E. Neal (D-MA) released the following statement regarding reports that Britain and the European Union have reached a post-Brexit trade agreement: “I commend the European Union and the United Kingdom for reaching an agreement regarding their future economic relationship today. I am glad to see that this deal preserves the Good Friday Agreement, which has maintained decades of peace for the British and European peoples and ensures that there will be no return to a hard border on the island of Ireland. I look forward to continued U.S. engagement with our trading partners across the Atlantic in the years to come.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z |
| https://neal.house.gov/2020/12/24/news-documentsingle-aspx-documentid-2022/ | Chairman Neal Introduces the CASH Act to Provide $2,000 Payments to Americans in Need | 2020-12-24 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Richard E. Neal | N000015 | neal.house.gov | neal | https://neal.house.gov/category/press-releases/ | scraper | Washington, DC Today, Ways and Means Committee Chairman Richard E. Neal (D-MA) introduced the Caring for Americans with Supplemental Help (CASH) Act of 2020 to increase the amount of money struggling Americans receive in a second round of direct payments to $2,000. Upon introducing the new legislation, Chairman Neal said: “For months, Democrats have consistently sought to provide Americans with a substantial second round of direct financial assistance. Now that the President has finally endorsed that idea as well, we’re ready to immediately pass the CASH Act to put an additional $2,000 into the pockets of folks in need. Congressional Republicans must join us in this effort and not block critical relief from reaching families who are hurting.” The CASH Act: Increases the value of the economic impact payments (EIPs) provided in the end-of-year COVID relief package so that each eligible family member receives $2,000, up from $600. Applies the same, broader eligibility established in the end-of-year package to mixed-status families where one spouse has a Social Security Number (SSN). As specified in the latest COVID relief legislation, these families are eligible for the EIP amount for each family member with an SSN, and can claim the corresponding amount for the first round of economic impact payments when they file their 2020 taxes. Text of the legislation is available HERE. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z |
| https://neal.house.gov/2020/12/24/news-documentsingle-aspx-documentid-2035/ | Neal Decries Republicans’ Heartless Obstruction of $2,000 Checks for Struggling Americans | 2020-12-24 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Richard E. Neal | N000015 | neal.house.gov | neal | https://neal.house.gov/category/press-releases/ | scraper | Washington, DC Today, Ways and Means Committee Chairman Richard E. Neal (D-MA) released the following statement after House Republicans blocked approval of the CASH Act, legislation the Chairman introduced to increase the amount of money struggling Americans receive in a second round of direct payments to $2,000: “If not for congressional Republicans, $2,000 checks would be heading to Americans in need. Instead, on this Christmas Eve morning, Minority Leader McCarthy directly undermined President Trump and led the charge to block this crucial relief from reaching millions of families. This heartless obstruction comes at a time when folks across the country are wondering how they’ll put food on the table and cover next month’s rent payment. Democrats will continue to fight to provide Americans with the substantial support they require to make ends meet during the ongoing COVID crisis.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z |
| https://pressley.house.gov/media/press-releases/reps-pressley-tlaib-jayapal-ocasio-cortez-omar-introduce-legislation-provide | Reps. Pressley, Tlaib, Jayapal, Ocasio-Cortez, & Omar Introduce Legislation to Provide $2,000 Survival Checks | 2020-12-24 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Ayanna Pressley | P000617 | pressley.house.gov | legacy | Bill Text (PDF) WASHINGTON Today, Congresswomen Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Rashida Tlaib (MI-13), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), and Ilhan Omar (MN-05) introduced legislation to provide survival payments of up to $2,000 to families suffering due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the woefully inadequate relief provided to them so far. For months, the congresswomen have been at the forefront of pushing for substantial direct relief for families during the worst public health emergency in our lifetimes. Families in my district and all across the country are struggling under the weight of this unprecedented crisis, said Congresswoman Pressley. We've been fighting all along for robust survival checks to help people meet their most basic needs, and the broad support that has emerged is a testament to the power of the people and the urgency of this moment. $2,000 in direct cash assistance will help families weather the crisis while we continue fighting for additional relief that meets the scale and scope of the hurt so many are feeling. Let's get it done. While President Trump has indicated support for the $2k direct payments, it is highly doubtful he has done anything to encourage congressional Republicans to support the effort. This morning on Christmas Eve, House Republicans blocked an attempt to provide survival checks. This holiday season, families are being forced to make incredibly difficult decisions, such as whether they should keep their lights on or buy groceries, said Congresswoman Tlaib. They are suffering to no fault of their own. We must protect public health and the economic well-being of those we serve. Providing $2,000 survival checks would give those struggling right now a lifeline as we continue to fight to defeat COVID-19. It's time for Trump to stop bluffing and get the members of his party in line so that the government can provide this long overdue relief to people across the country during this time of great need. It's long overdue that Congress approves COVID-1… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-markey-and-warren-urge-reconsideration-of-decade-old-air-permit-for-proposed-biomass-fired-power-plant-in-springfield-and-reassessment-of-air-quality-impacts | Senators Markey and Warren Urge Reconsideration of Decade-Old Air Permit for Proposed Biomass-Fired Power Plant in Springfield and Reassessment of Air Quality ImpactsRead More | 2020-12-24 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | Wood-burning power plants have a carbon dioxide emissions rate approximately 50% higher than a coal-fired power plant Washington (December 24, 2020) Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) and Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) today wrote to the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) urging the agency to consider suspending and reassessing the decade-old Conditional Approval issued to Palmer Renewable Energy LLC for a proposed biomass-fired power plant in Springfield, Massachusetts, particularly as the new Biden administration determines its climate and air quality priorities. The Senators called on MassDEP to conduct a new review of the proposed plant's air quality impacts that accounts for the ongoing respiratory health pandemic, new public health data, and the impacts to the accelerating climate crisis. The proposed plant is expected to burn approximately one ton of wood per minute and emit fine particulate matter, nitrogen oxides, sulfur dioxide, and other harmful pollutants, which can damage the human respiratory system and make breathing difficult. Nearly one in five children in Springfield suffer from asthma, and 90 percent of city residents are categorized as living within an environmental justice population. Springfield residents deserve an updated air quality analysis that reflects the city's current health and environmental justice issues, which have become more acute in the decade since MassDEP initially issued the Conditional Approval,write the Senators in their letter to MassDEP Commissioner Martin Suuberg.In reassessing the Palmer biomass plant proposal, MassDEP needs to account for the latest research into the spread of COVID-19, the respiratory health risks in the surrounding population, and the historic burden of air pollution on the local community. A copy of the letter can be found HERE. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has approved Massachusetts' State Implementation Plan for air quality standards, giving MassDEP the authority to rev… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://mcgovern.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398657 | McGovern Announces 2020 Congressional App Challenge Winners | 2020-12-23 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Jim McGovern | M000312 | mcgovern.house.gov | legacy | WORCESTER, MASS. Today, Congressman James P. McGovern (MA-02) announced the winners of the 2020 Congressional App Challenge from Massachusetts' Second Congressional District: Mahathi Gopinathan and Helen Liu. Both students attend Shrewsbury High School. Their app, The Kindness Calendar, assigns users one kind thing to do on a daily basis. The coronavirus pandemic has negatively impacted the mental health of millions of Americans. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, 53% of adults in the United States reported that their mental health has been negatively impacted due to worry and stress over the coronavirus. Mahathi and Helen created The Kindness Calendar in hopes of increasing positivity in others' lives. I am excited to congratulate Mahathi and Helen on their exceptional app.saidCongressman McGovern. During these trying times, it is encouraging to see younger generations continue finding innovative ways to care for others. Programs like the Congressional App Challenge help today's students develop the skills they need to become the inventors and leaders our country needs now more than ever. BACKGROUND ON THE CONGRESSIONAL APP CHALLENGE: The Congressional App Challenge highlights the value of computer science and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) education and encourages students to engage in these fields. By recognizing our nation's young programming talent, Congress hopes to shine a light on the growing importance of these skills. The Challenge is open to all U.S. high school students in participating districts. Challenge participants are invited, either as individuals or as teams of up to four, to create and submit their own software application (app) for mobile, tablet, or other computing devices on a platform of their choice. A panel of local computer science professionals and congressional representatives will judge the apps, and the winners in each district will have the honor of being recognized by their Congressional representative. The Challenge is coordinatedby the Congress… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://trahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1914 | Representatives Clark, Trahan, Democratic Women’s Caucus Publish Spotify Playlist Commemorating 100 Years of Suffrage, Songs Fueling Continued Fight for Justice | 2020-12-23 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Lori Trahan | T000482 | trahan.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C.- Today,Assistant Speaker-elect Katherine Clark(MA-05),Congresswoman Lori Trahan (MA-03),and members of theDemocratic Women's Caucus(DWC) published aWomen in the Houseplaylist on Spotify to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment and honor the tremendous contributions of women across the nation who are working on the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic. This has been a historic year for women: the celebration of 100 years of suffrage, our first woman Vice President, and the heroic role women have played as a majority of essential workers and health care providers during the pandemic. But our accomplishments are still coupled with crisis. Women across American are being pushed out of the workforce and pushed into economic turmoil because of persistent policies based on inequality,said Congresswoman Katherine Clark.This playlist is a celebration of women and our refusal to give up in our fight for equal rights and equal representation. I hope that when you listen you feel inspired, empowered, and ready to take on the world. In a year that has been challenging for everyone, particularly working women and moms, it can be easy to overlook the tremendous achievements of strong, successful women across our nation. While I continue to advocate each day for policies that uplift women, I recognize that I wouldn't be able to do what I do if it weren't for the women who came before me, the women I serve with, and the women who sacrifice each day on the front lines of the fight against COVID-19 to make sure that we are safe and healthy, said Congresswoman Lori Trahan. This playlist brought me some joy during this difficult time, and I hope it does the same for all of the strong women out there who need a reminder of just how fearless and inspiring they are. Music has played an uplifting role in the battle for women's rights since the suffrage movement helping women to unify, rally, and assert their unbreakable spirit with songs of protest and praise to uplift and inspire us to keep going. Th… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-markey-secures-220-million-in-year-end-spending-bill-for-universal-flu-vaccine-research | Senator Markey Secures $220 Million in Year-End Spending Bill for Universal Flu Vaccine ResearchRead More | 2020-12-23 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | Washington (December 23, 2020) As 190.4 million fluvaccineshave been distributed in the United States so far this flu season, Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) announced he helped secure $220 million in the year-end spending package for research for the creation of a universal influenza vaccine that could protect against multiple strains of the flu virus and offer longer lasting protection. The flu costs the nation at least $3.2 billion in direct medical costs annually and $87 billion in total economic burden. With increased vaccination rates this flu season, paired with stay-at-home orders, incidence of flu cases are down 91 percent from November 2019. Last April, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) began its first clinical trial of an innovative universal influenza vaccine candidate. With the creation of the coronavirus vaccine, we have seen what happens when we fully empower scientists with the funding to research and innovate, said Senator Markey. Now, we have to do the same with the creation of a universal flu vaccine and enhance our response to this global scourge. With the additional research funding in this year-end spending bill, we will supercharge our ability to predict the right strain for the next season, produce a more optimal vaccine, and protect all Americans against all strains of this virus.Senator Markey and Rep. Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) previously introduced theFlu Vaccine Act, legislation to conduct or support comprehensive research for the creation of a universal influenza vaccine that could protect against multiple strains of the flu virus and offer longer lasting protection. The legislation calls for a total investment of $1 billion $200,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2020 through 2024 for NIH. Senator Markey and his colleagues were able to secure a dedicated $100 million, $140 million, and $200 million for fiscal years 2018, 2019, and 2020, respectively, for universal flu vaccine research at the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases within … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-markey-portman-and-wyden-commend-three-year-extension-of-innovative-home-based-primary-care-medicare-program_independence-at-home | Senators Markey, Portman, and Wyden Commend Three-Year Extension of Innovative Home-Based Primary Care Medicare Program Independence At HomeRead More | 2020-12-23 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | In 2012, Independence at Home began as a three-year demonstration program through the Affordable Care ActWashington (December 23, 2020) Senators Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Rob Portman (R-Ohio), and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), commended a three-year extension of the Independence At Home (IAH) demonstration project in the year-end budget legislation. Independence at Home is an innovative, team-based model that is bringing measurable, high-quality care to patients suffering from multiple debilitating diseases such as Alzheimer's, ALS, congestive heart failure, diabetes and Parkinson's, while significantly lowering costs for the Medicare program. In addition to the extension, the package also includes an increase in the number of eligible beneficiaries. In April 2019, Senators Markey and Portman reintroduced legislation (S.1202) to convert the Independence at Home demonstration into a permanent, national Medicare program. In 2012, Independence at Home began as a three-year demonstration program. In 2015 and 2017, the House of Representatives and Senate approved two-year extensions. Senators Markey and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) are the original co-authors of the Independence at Home provision in the Affordable Care Act. When we provide health care to our most vulnerable in their living rooms, we help curtail their visits to emergency rooms, said Senator Markey. Independence at Home improves the care that frail patients receive, while saving taxpayers money by catching emerging health problems early. With the IAH program set to expire this year, this extension is critical. But I will continue to work to make this innovative program permanently accessible for all Medicare beneficiaries and their family caregivers in the future, and I thank Senators Portman and Wyden for their partnership on this innovative program. The Independence at Home program is delivering results and saving money, said Senator Portman. It has made a difference by reducing hospital readmissions, preventing costly hospital and nursing … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://www.warren.senate.gov/newsroom/news-coverage/bloomberg-tobacco-companies-tried-to-profit-off-virus-lawmaker-group-says | Bloomberg: Tobacco Companies Tried to Profit Off Virus, Lawmaker Group Says | 2020-12-22 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Elizabeth Warren | W000817 | www.warren.senate.gov | legacy | December 22, 2020 Bloomberg: Tobacco Companies Tried to Profit Off Virus, Lawmaker Group Says A group of U.S. lawmakers, including Senator Elizabeth Warren, has sent letters to two of the world's largest tobacco companies alleging they attempted to profit off the back of a global health crisis. The letters sent to British American Tobacco Plc and Philip Morris International Inc., dated Dec. 16 and Dec. 18, respectively, cite a Stanford University study that found tobacco companies promoted their products during the pandemic on social media platforms popular with young adults by offering free gifts that had been hard to find, like hand sanitizer, toilet paper and masks. Some ads even pitched the products as good for stress relief during Covid-19, the letter said. Read the full articlehere. By: Tiffany Kary and Corinne Gretler Source: Bloomberg Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://www.warren.senate.gov/newsroom/news-coverage/cnbc-sen-warren-introduces-bill-to-provide-free-covid-testing-for-teachers-students-and-essential-workers-across-us | CNBC: Sen. Warren introduces bill to provide free Covid testing for teachers, students and essential workers across U.S. | 2020-12-22 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Elizabeth Warren | W000817 | www.warren.senate.gov | legacy | December 22, 2020 CNBC: Sen. Warren introduces bill to provide free Covid testing for teachers, students and essential workers across U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren is pushing legislation that would provide free Covid testing for teachers, students, essential workers and others who have high exposure to the coronavirus, expanding federally funded screening efforts throughout the U.S. The Expanding COVID-19 Testing Capacity Act of 2020 would require the Department of Health and Human Services to stabilize the testing supply chain by manufacturing tests and testing supplies, or find contractors who can do it for the agency, Warren said Tuesday. Read the full articlehere. By: Will Feuer Source: CNBC Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://www.warren.senate.gov/newsroom/news-coverage/military-times-private-military-housing-companies-face-questions-about-military-families-with-disabled-members | Military Times: Private military housing companies face questions about military families with disabled members | 2020-12-22 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Elizabeth Warren | W000817 | www.warren.senate.gov | legacy | December 22, 2020 Military Times: Private military housing companies face questions about military families with disabled members Two senators are pressing privatized housing companies for extensive details on their treatment of military families with disabled members who need accessible housing. Some private companies that have partnered with the Defense Department do not appear to be following federal laws that protect persons with disabilities, according to letters sent Dec. 18 to top executives of six companies, signed by Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., and Sen. Thom Tillis, R-N.C. Citing the findings of a small online survey released in July by the nonprofit Military Housing Advocacy Network, the senators asked the executives for details about each of their military housing communities by Jan. 15. Read the full articlehere. By: Karen Jowers Source: Military Times Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://www.warren.senate.gov/newsroom/news-coverage/nbc-news-senators-ask-justice-department-watchdog-to-investigate-federal-executions-under-trump | NBC News: Senators ask Justice Department watchdog to investigate federal executions under Trump | 2020-12-22 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Elizabeth Warren | W000817 | www.warren.senate.gov | legacy | December 22, 2020 NBC News: Senators ask Justice Department watchdog to investigate federal executions under Trump "The reversal of long-standing DOJ policies and protocols for federal executions raise numerous questions about the fairness and application of these policies." After a second federal inmate scheduled to be executed next month recently tested positive for the coronavirus, several senators are asking the Department of Justice's independent watchdog agency to investigate what motivated the Trump administration to resume the federal death penalty this year. Since July, the Justice Department under Attorney General William Barr has put 10 federal inmates to death, with three more executions scheduled in January just days before President-elect Joe Biden's inauguration. That is the most executions in a presidential lame-duck period in more than 130 years. The federal government's ramping up of executions ended a 17-year moratorium under previous administrations, and came amid a pandemic that led all states to halt executions. Read the full articlehere. By: Erik Ortiz Source: NBC News Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://mcgovern.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398656 | McGovern Bill Supporting Tibetan Human Rights and Religious Freedom Set to Become Law | 2020-12-22 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Jim McGovern | M000312 | mcgovern.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, D.C. A bipartisan bill to support the human rights and religious freedom of the Tibetan people written by Congressman James P. McGovern (D-MA), Chairman of the House Rules Committee and the Congressional-Executive Commission on China is set to become law after being included in the omnibus spending package agreement just passed by Congress. Full Text of the Bill (PDF) The bill updates the Tibetan Policy Act of 2002 to address the ongoing oppression of the Tibetan people by the Chinese government, and directs sanctions on Chinese officials who violate Tibetan human rights. Our bipartisan bill shines a light on the Chinese government's ongoing oppression in Tibet and strengthens existing U.S. tools to protect the religion, language, and culture of the Tibetan people, said Chairman McGovern. It also reaffirms America's commitment to the idea that human rights matter. It is essential that the human rights of all the people of China and Tibet are respected by their government. The human rights situation in Tibet has gotten progressively worse in recent years. The Chinese government has refused to enter into genuine dialogue with Tibetan leaders. Restrictions on access to Tibet, for both Tibetans and foreigners, have been tightened. International journalists have stated that the isolation of Tibet is as bad as North Korea, allowing human rights abuses and environmental degradation to be concealed from the outside world. Chinese officials claim that they have sole authority to select the next reincarnation of the Dalai Lama, in violation of the religious freedom of the Tibetan Buddhist community. In the Tibetan Autonomous Region, new regulations on ethnic unity mandate acceptance and promotion of Chinese government ethnic and religious policy. McGovern's bill: Establishes as U.S. policy that the succession or reincarnation of Tibetan Buddhist leaders, including a future 15th Dalai Lama, is an exclusively religious matter that should be decided solely by the Tibetan Buddhist community. … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://neal.house.gov/2020/12/22/news-documentsingle-aspx-documentid-1932/ | Chairman Neal Statement on Green Energy Investments and Jobs | 2020-12-22 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Richard E. Neal | N000015 | neal.house.gov | neal | https://neal.house.gov/category/press-releases/ | scraper | Washington, DC Today, following House passage of a legislative package that included extensions of energy-related tax credits, Ways and Means Committee Chairman Richard E. Neal (D-MA) released the following statement underscoring the importance of pro-worker policies accompanying future investments in the green energy sector: “During a time of great uncertainty for the nation, we have advanced a bipartisan bill to provide timely relief and certainty to workers and businesses, including to those in the green energy space. This fast-growing sector is not only critical to our fight against climate change, but also a core part of our economic recovery from the COVID recession. “For a successful recovery, we must ensure that green jobs are good jobs. To do anything less would be to squander this opportunity to build back the American middle class and restore the power and dignity of workers. “Workers in the green energy sector deserve good pay, benefits, safe workplaces, and all rights and protections afforded under our nation’s labor laws. Unions are crucial to ensuring collective bargaining rights and to standing up for workers whose employers are violating the law. I am disappointed by the low unionization rate within the renewable energy sector and dismayed at reports of attempts to restrict unionization and retaliate against workers for attempting to unionize. Workers must be at the center of a transition to a green economy. “In undertaking this transformation, it is also critical that we continue working to ensure that the benefits of our ongoing investments in green energy lift up American manufacturing with products made in the United States. American-made steel, solar panels, and other sustainable goods can and should be a top choice for consumers here at home and around the world. As part of that effort, the United States must take the lead by engaging our trading partners to effectively address trade and climate change. “Ways and Means Select Revenue Measures Subcommittee Chairman Mike Thompson has be… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z |
| https://trahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1912 | Reps. Trahan and Moulton, and Senators Markey and Warren Applaud Inclusion of “Leonel Rondon Pipeline Safety Act” in Year-End Spending Bill | 2020-12-22 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Lori Trahan | T000482 | trahan.house.gov | legacy | Washington (December 22, 2020) Representative Lori Trahan (MA-03), Representative Seth Moulton (MA-08), Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), a member of the Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, and Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), applauded the inclusion of their Leonel Rondon Pipeline Safety Act as part of the year-end spending package. The lawmakers introduced the legislation in response to the catastrophic gas explosions in the Merrimack Valley, Massachusetts on September 13, 2018, which resulted in the death of 18-year-old Leonel Rondon, dozens of injuries, damage to more than 100 homes, and thousands of homes left without natural gas service for months. More than two years after the tragic and preventable Merrimack Valley gas explosions impacted thousands of families in Lawrence, Andover, and North Andover, our legislation to prevent another disaster like this is finally on the cusp of becoming law, said Rep. Trahan. For too long, outdated and insufficient safety regulations have failed the communities they were supposed to protect. Today's passage of the Leonel Rondon Pipeline Safety Act will apply the many lessons taken from this tragedy including those informed by NTSB's experts to ensure that no community ever has to experience this type of terrible devastation again. Passage of the Leonel Rondon Pipeline Safety Act pays honor and tribute to the life of Leonel Rondon and serves as a small justice for the Merrimack Valley community, said Senator Markey. The natural gas explosions that struck Lawrence, Andover, and North Andover more than two years ago were yet another example of corporations cutting corners to turn a profit. The passage of this legislation is a critical step in ensuring that we prioritize public safety over corporate profit and never allow a tragic disaster like this to happen again. I thank Senators Wicker, Cantwell, Fischer and Duckworth, and Chairmen Pallone and DeFazio for their leadership on this legislation. The Merrimack Valley pipeline explosions could have… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://trahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1913 | Representatives Trahan and McGovern Applaud $125,000 in CDC Drug Free Community Grant Funding for LUK, Inc | 2020-12-22 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Lori Trahan | T000482 | trahan.house.gov | legacy | LOWELL, MA Today,Congresswoman Lori Trahan (MA-03)andCongressman Jim McGovern (MA-02)applauded the awarding of $125,000 in federal grant funding from the Department of Health and Human Services' Center for Disease Control and Prevention to LUK, Inc., a not-for-profit social service agency based in Fitchburg that provides critical services to communities throughout North Central Massachusetts. Cases of addiction and substance use disorder have continued to increase during the COVID-19 pandemic across all demographics, and young people have sadly not been immune,said Congresswoman Trahan. Ensuring that organizations like LUK have the resources they need to continue combating drug and substance abuse is more important than ever. This funding will go a long way toward preventing the use of alcohol, marijuana, and nicotine usage by teens and youth in Leominster. Massachusetts knows all too well the terrible toll that substance use disorder has taken on our communities. Sadly, COVID-19 has only exacerbated the many challenges we face in addressing this problem,said Congressman McGovern.I'm hopeful that this grant will be a big help as LUK continues their work to prevent substance abuse among teens and adolescents, empower families, provide care, and even save lives. We are very excited to continue to build upon our long-standing partnership with the Leominster Community Action Team,said Cassandra Foley, LUK's Director of Community Engagement and Support.This funding will enable the coalition to implement evidence-based strategies to prevent the use of alcohol, marijuana, and nicotine among youth in Leominster." We are thrilled to have received the DFC grant,added Catherine Gaudt, BSN, RN, NCSN, Nurse Manager in Leominster Public School System.This will aid in our efforts to prevent adolescent and teen substance use and abuse in our community. Background: Throughout her time in Congress, Trahan has been a strong proponent of legislation that seeks to end the addiction crisis and bolster mental health and substance… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/12/22/2020/senator-markey-senator-whitehouse-and-rep-langevin-applaud-the-inclusion-of-offshore-wind-act-provision-in-year-end-spending-bill | Senator Markey, Senator Whitehouse, and Rep. Langevin Applaud the Inclusion of Offshore WIND Act Provision in Year-End Spending BillRead More | 2020-12-22 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | Spending package includes five-year extension of critical tax incentives for offshore wind Washington (December 22, 2020) Senators Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), and Congressman Jim Langevin (RI-02) applauded the inclusion of key components of their legislation, theOffshore Wind Incentives for New Development (WIND) Act (S. 1957), as part of the year-end spending package. The provision would extend the Investment Tax Credit (ITC) for offshore wind facilities at 30 percent through 2025, as called for in the Offshore WIND Act. Introduced in June 2019 by Senators Markey and Whitehouse, and Rep. Langevin, the Offshore WIND Act would spur the growth of offshore wind energy in the United States by extending tax credits for the renewable energy industry. In addition to extending the offshore wind ITC, the omnibus budget package extends the ITC for solar and the production tax credit (PTC) for onshore wind. It makes permanent energy efficiency improvements for commercial buildings and extends a credit of up to $2,000 for the purchase of energy efficient homes, as well as extends credits for non-business energy property purchases. The package also includes a five-year extension of the tax used to fund the Oil Spill Liability Trust Fund. Offshore wind has the potential to change the game on climate change, and those winds of change are blowing off the shores of Massachusetts, said Senator Markey. Offshore wind projects are a crucial part of America's clean energy future, creating tens of thousands of jobs up and down the East Coast and reducing carbon pollution. In our effort to harness this potential, we will now be able to provide this burgeoning industry the long-term certainty in the tax code that it needs. Our workers and our manufacturers stand ready to meet the demands of the offshore wind industry, and our economy stands ready to reap the winds of success. My big thanks to Senator Whitehouse and Rep. Langevin for their continued partnership and dedication to this legislation. … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-markey-and-congresswoman-maloney-applaud-inclusion-of-25-million-in-gun-violence-research-funding-in-omnibus-funding-package | Senator Markey and Congresswoman Maloney Applaud Inclusion of $25 Million in Gun Violence Research Funding in Omnibus Funding PackageRead More | 2020-12-22 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | Washington (December 22, 2020) With funding for federal gun violence prevention research at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) beginning for the first time this past fall, Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) and Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney (NY-14) today applauded the inclusion of $25 million in the 2021 Fiscal Year package to continue that research. Last year, the lawmakers were also successful in securing $25 million in the year-end spending bill to fund research on firearms safety and gun violence prevention, the first time Congress approved federal funding for the study of gun violence since an appropriations rider called the Dickey Amendment was put on the books in 1996. Despite the pandemic, gun violence is up in Massachusetts and around the country. We cannot accept that gun violence is pre-ordained, when we can know it can be prevented, said Senator Markey. This research funding is a critical step to understanding the causes of this scourge and putting an end to gun violence in our schools and neighborhoods. Research will help us create evidence-based solutions to this ongoing public health crisis. Gun violence is a public health crisis that continues to destroy lives all across the country and has grown even worse during the coronavirus pandemic, said Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney. For years, I have worked to pass legislation directing federal funding toward health research into gun violence. I am encouraged that the Labor-HHS-Education appropriations package once again includes this much needed funding. This research can help save lives by proposing science-based solutions to end the gun violence epidemic. In January 2019, Senator Markey and Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney co-authored theGun Violence Prevention Research Act,legislation to fund research at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on firearms safety and gun violence prevention. The legislation has been endorsed by a number of gun safety groups and health organizations. For too lo… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-markey-helps-secure-300-million-increase-for-alzheimers-research-in-omnibus-spending-bill | Senator Markey Helps Secure $300 Million Increase for Alzheimers Research in Omnibus Spending BillRead More | 2020-12-22 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | Washington (December 22, 2020) Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Senate co-chair of the Bipartisan Congressional Task Force on Alzheimer's Disease, today commended the inclusion of $3.1 billion for Alzheimer's and related dementia research funding at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) in the year-end spending bill. This funding is a $300 million increase over last year's appropriations, and meets the funding level the NIH estimates it will need to effectively treat or prevent Alzheimer's by 2025, based on its most recent annual Alzheimer's Disease budget conducted pursuant to Senator Markey's Alzheimer's Accountability Act. Currently, more than 5.5 million Americans live with Alzheimer's disease, and by 2060, that number is expected to triple. We need big, bold investments in medical and clinical research in order to defeat the devastating disease that is Alzheimer's, said Senator Markey. My mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer's in 1985, and we cared for her in our living room until she passed in 1998. I know the pain this disease causes, and I also know the love that families and caregivers have for their loved ones living with it. I am proud to have fought for the appropriations included in this year's spending bill, which will be critical to our fight for a cure. In Fiscal Year 2020, Senator Markey helped to secure $2.8 billion for Alzheimer's and related dementia research at NIH, a 370% increase since 2014. Throughout his years in Congress, Senator Markey has been a champion for raising awareness of Alzheimer's disease and working to find a cure. He is the House author of theNational Alzheimer's Project Act (NAPA), which became law in 2011. Passage of NAPA led to the creation of a National Alzheimer's Plan to effectively prevent and treat Alzheimer's by the year 2025. In 2014, Senator Markey'sAlzheimer's Accountability Actwas signed into law, as part of the fiscal year 2015 appropriations package, which requires the NIH to report to Congress how much additional fund… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-markey-senator-whitehouse-and-rep-langevin-applaud-the-inclusion-of-offshore-wind-act-provision-in-year-end-spending-bill | Senator Markey, Senator Whitehouse, and Rep. Langevin Applaud the Inclusion of Offshore WIND Act Provision in Year-End Spending BillRead More | 2020-12-22 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | Spending package includes five-year extension of critical tax incentives for offshore wind Washington (December 22, 2020) Senators Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), and Congressman Jim Langevin (RI-02) applauded the inclusion of key components of their legislation, theOffshore Wind Incentives for New Development (WIND) Act (S. 1957), as part of the year-end spending package. The provision would extend the Investment Tax Credit (ITC) for offshore wind facilities at 30 percent through 2025, as called for in the Offshore WIND Act. Introduced in June 2019 by Senators Markey and Whitehouse, and Rep. Langevin, the Offshore WIND Act would spur the growth of offshore wind energy in the United States by extending tax credits for the renewable energy industry. In addition to extending the offshore wind ITC, the omnibus budget package extends the ITC for solar and the production tax credit (PTC) for onshore wind. It makes permanent energy efficiency improvements for commercial buildings and extends a credit of up to $2,000 for the purchase of energy efficient homes, as well as extends credits for non-business energy property purchases. The package also includes a five-year extension of the tax used to fund the Oil Spill Liability Trust Fund. Offshore wind has the potential to change the game on climate change, and those winds of change are blowing off the shores of Massachusetts, said Senator Markey. Offshore wind projects are a crucial part of America's clean energy future, creating tens of thousands of jobs up and down the East Coast and reducing carbon pollution. In our effort to harness this potential, we will now be able to provide this burgeoning industry the long-term certainty in the tax code that it needs. Our workers and our manufacturers stand ready to meet the demands of the offshore wind industry, and our economy stands ready to reap the winds of success. My big thanks to Senator Whitehouse and Rep. Langevin for their continued partnership and dedication t… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-markey-statement-on-passage-of-coronavirus-relief-package | Senator Markey Statement on Passage of Coronavirus Relief PackageRead More | 2020-12-22 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | Washington (December 21, 2020) Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) released the following statement upon passage of a $900 billion bipartisan coronavirus relief package. Workers, small businesses, and families may be getting an ounce of relief in this coronavirus package, but they need a ton more.With millions literally lining up in bread lines, this relief package isn't even half a loaf. It is a terrible day in Congress that we see the tragedy of hunger, unemployment, illness, and death, but Republican cruelty and partisanship overrule compassion and commonsense. This packagemust be only the beginning of our work to secure trillions more in aid for the American people. They deserve so much more than this. A one-time direct cash payment, as well as extensions of vital nutrition funding and a national eviction moratorium will provide desperately-needed help during these darkest and coldest winter months. Massachusetts small businesses will receive another round of payroll assistance. And the extension of enhanced unemployment benefits for our gig workers and independent contractors a program I fought to create at the beginning of the pandemic will provide some temporary relief. But expanding Pell Grants is not the kind of relief that cancellation of student debt would provide. A business tax credit is not the full paid sick time that all Americans deserve. As utility bills pile up, legislation that does not prevent the cruel shut-off of gas, electric, or water will lead to massive, unabated energy debt.Broadband funding that ignores the successful E-rate a proven program that is ready to connect vulnerable students now to the internet will do little to close the homework gap'. Meanwhile,states and cities continue to be punished by Senate Republicans who refuse to provide them aid as they are left to bear the economic burden resulting from the Trump administration's abdication of leadership during the pandemic. This deal is better than the Republican alternative of nothing, but… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-markey-and-schumer-and-rep-engel-celebrate-inclusion-of-legislation-to-preserve-first-responders-access-to-emergency-spectrum-in-year-end-spending-bill | Senators Markey and Schumer, and Rep. Engel Celebrate Inclusion of Legislation to Preserve First Responders Access to Emergency Spectrum in Year-End Spending BillRead More | 2020-12-22 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | Washington (December 21, 2020) Today, Congress released its final end-of-year spending legislation, which includes Senator Edward J. Markey's (D-Mass.) bill to preserve first responders' access to T-band spectrum (470512 MHz). Congress is now poised to pass theDon't Break Up the T-Band Act, legislation that allows firefighters, emergency medical service providers, police officers and other emergency personnel in eleven metropolitan areas across the county to continue to communicate with each other using T-Band spectrum.Thelegislationrepeals a provision of the 2012Middle Class Tax Relief and Job Creation Act, which directed the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to auction off this band of spectrum by February 2021. First responders in highly-populated metropolitan areas in Massachusetts, New York, Pennsylvania, Washington, D.C., and elsewhere use critical T-Band spectrum for emergency public safety communication. Agencies across the country have invested millions of dollars in the T-Band networks, which offer the reliable coverage and regional interoperability that first responders require for mission critical voice communications. A recent study by the United States Government Accountability Office noted that had Congress failed to act, the cost of relocating T-Band users to other bands of spectrum would cost between $5 and $6 billion, and for many T-Band users, alternative bands of spectrum are limited or nonexistent.For years, I have been working to ensure that first responders in Massachusetts and across the country have the resources they need to do their jobs, said Senator Markey. Every day, brave women and men on the frontlines of the coronavirus pandemic rely on T-Band spectrum to communicate with each other. By passing this bill into law, Congress will say loud and clear to our public safety heroes, We have your back.' I thank Leader Schumer and all of my partners on this legislation for their commitment to passing this bill into law. This is the type of action the America… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-markey-and-warren-and-reps-trahan-and-moulton-applaud-inclusion-of-leonel-rondon-pipeline-safety-act-in-year-end-spending-bill | Senators Markey and Warren and Reps. Trahan and Moulton Applaud Inclusion of Leonel Rondon Pipeline Safety Act in Year-End Spending BillRead More | 2020-12-22 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | Massachusetts lawmakers introduced legislation in the wake of Merrimack Valley gas explosion Washington (December 22, 2020) Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), a member of the Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee, Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), and Representatives Lori Trahan (MA-03) and Seth Moulton (MA-08) applauded the inclusion of their Leonel Rondon Pipeline Safety Act as part of the year-end spending package. The lawmakers introduced the legislation in response to the catastrophic gas explosions in the Merrimack Valley, Massachusetts on September 13, 2018, which resulted in the death of 18-year-old Leonel Rondon, dozens of injuries, damage to more than 100 homes, and thousands of homes left without natural gas service for months. Passage of the Leonel Rondon Pipeline Safety Act pays honor and tribute to the life of Leonel Rondon and serves as a small justice for the Merrimack Valley community, said Senator Markey. The natural gas explosions that struck Lawrence, Andover, and North Andover more than two years ago were yet another example of corporations cutting corners to turn a profit. The passage of this legislation is a critical step in ensuring that we prioritize public safety over corporate profit and never allow a tragic disaster like this to happen again. I thank Senators Wicker, Cantwell, Fischer and Duckworth, and Chairmen Pallone and DeFazio for their leadership on this legislation. The Merrimack Valley pipeline explosions could have been completely avoided if Columbia Gas executives had valued safety over profits, said Senator Warren. The passing of the Leonel Rondon Pipeline Safety Act honors the memory of a young man killed by the reckless gas explosion and will strengthen regulatory safety laws to help prevent disasters like this from happening again. More than two years after the tragic and preventable Merrimack Valley gas explosions impacted thousands of families in Lawrence, Andover, and North Andover, our legislation to prevent another disast… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-markey-and-warren-applaud-passage-of-water-infrastructure-bill-benefiting-critical-massachusetts-projects | Senators Markey and Warren Applaud Passage of Water Infrastructure Bill Benefiting Critical Massachusetts ProjectsRead More | 2020-12-22 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | Bipartisan legislation includes provisions to expedite the replacement of Cape Cod Canal Bridges, improve climate resilience, mitigate flood risks, and control coastal erosion Washington (December 22, 2020) Senators Edward J. Markey and Elizabeth Warren commended Congress's passage of theWater Resources Development Act of 2020, a water resourcesand infrastructure bill that includes several key provisions benefiting Massachusetts. Senator Markey is a member of the Environment and Public Works Committee, which has jurisdiction over the legislation. During the coronavirus pandemic, it is more important than ever that we provide relief and support to communities throughout Massachusetts,said Senator Markey.I am proud that the water infrastructure legislation passed today includes many of our key provisions, which will provide new and more robust resources to help localities recover and grow their economies, while also bracing for the impacts of climate change. I look forward to building on this progress with comprehensive investments in sustainable and resilient infrastructure in the next Congress. I am glad to see this water resources and infrastructure legislation support critically important infrastructure projects across the Commonwealth, said Senator Warren. I will continue to fight to ensure our communities have the resources they need to protect against future impacts of climate change and allow for continued economic growth. I am grateful to Senator Markey and Senator Warren for their leadership and support in preserving open space and investing in sustainable green infrastructure, two critical strategies to combating the effects of climate change and building a thriving, healthy, and innovative Boston, said Boston Mayor Marty Walsh. My administration has invested over $60 million in critical stormwater management projects along the Muddy River and the Emerald Necklace park system, an integral part of our resilience strategies led by Climate Ready Boston. These investments an… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/stabenow-collins-markey-capito-menendez-announce-senate-passage-of-bipartisan-improving-hope-for-alzheimers-act | Stabenow, Collins, Markey, Capito, Menendez Announce Senate Passage of Bipartisan Improving HOPE for Alzheimers ActRead More | 2020-12-22 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | Bipartisan Improving HOPE for Alzheimer's Act passes Senate WASHINGTON, D.C. U.S. Senators Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Susan Collins (R-ME), Ed Markey (D-MA), Shelley MooreCapito(R-WV)and Bob Menendez (D-NJ)today announced Senate passage of the bipartisan Improving HOPE (Health, Outcomes, Planning, and Education) for Alzheimer's Act. Thanks to theirsuccessful bipartisan push in 2015, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services announced in November 2016 that Medicare would begin covering new care plans in 2017, effectively implementing the HOPE for Alzheimer's Act. The Improving HOPE for Alzheimer's Act requires the Department of Health and Human Services to conduct outreach to make more health care providers aware of this important benefit and to report back on rates of utilization and barriers to access. Care plans are an important tool to ensure that those living with Alzheimer's disease and their loved ones who help care for them every day have the support they need to cope with this devastating disease,said Senator Stabenow.The Improving HOPE for Alzheimer's Act will help make sure patients, their families, and their health care providers know about and can take advantage of the available resources. "It is imperative that those living with Alzheimer's disease and their families receive the resources they need, including information about treatment options and what medical and community services are available, said Senator Collins. Fortunately, following our advocacy, CMS implemented a new rule in 2018 that allows Medicare beneficiaries to receive a care planning session. Our legislation will expand access to this service by increasing awareness of this policy change among physicians. As the Co-Chair of the Senate Alzheimer's Task Force, I will continue to support those living with Alzheimer's disease and their caregivers. While we work towards the goal of finding a cure for Alzheimer's by 2025, we must also ensure seniors with Alzheimer's get the best care possible. Developing car… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://katherineclark.house.gov/press-releases?ID=EBE38695-1118-4137-AC3E-EA2D282F8C73 | Clark, House Approve Emergency COVID Relief, Government Funding Package | 2020-12-21 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Katherine M. Clark | C001101 | katherineclark.house.gov | clark | https://katherineclark.house.gov/press-releases | scraper | 0 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | |
| https://neal.house.gov/2020/12/21/news-documentsingle-aspx-documentid-1630/ | Chairman Neal Floor Statement on he COVID-19 Relief and Omnibus Spending Agreement | 2020-12-21 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Richard E. Neal | N000015 | neal.house.gov | neal | https://neal.house.gov/category/press-releases/ | scraper | Washington, DC (As Prepared for Delivery) After long, intense negotiations, we are finally here today with relief in sight for the American people. This agreement isn’t perfect, but it will offer struggling workers, families, and business with some immediate support. Americans are suffering, wondering how they’ll afford to put food on the table and stay in their homes. Democrats understand that folks are in extraordinary crisis, so we fought to make sure this package includes urgently-needed relief provisions. As with previous COVID legislation, the Ways and Means Committee contributed several of the most crucial measures in today’s bill. We included 11 weeks of $300 per-week emergency unemployment benefits, as well as an extension of pandemic-related unemployment assistance that’s otherwise set to cut off in the coming days. Importantly, there are new protections for individuals who received pandemic-related benefit overpayments through no fault of their own and are now unable to repay the funds. Folks in need will also receive a second round of direct payments. These $600 checks are not as robust as we would have liked, but they will help Americans bridge the gap until we can provide further relief. I’m pleased that we expanded eligibility for this round of checks to include people in some mixed-status families. In situations where one spouse does not have a Social Security number, the other eligible spouse and children will not be denied their direct payments, as they were under the CARES Act. What’s more, the eligible spouse and children in these families will also be able to claim the first round of payments they initially missed out on when they file their 2020 taxes. We put more money in the pockets of working families by providing greater flexibility for those who are eligible to claim the Earned Income Tax Credit and the Additional Child Tax Credit. An expanded Employee Retention Tax Credit and the deductibility of expenses paid for using PPP loans will both incentivize the hiring and retent… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z |
| https://neal.house.gov/2020/12/21/news-documentsingle-aspx-documentid-2044/ | Chairman Neal Statement on the COVID-19 Relief and Omnibus Spending Agreement | 2020-12-21 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Richard E. Neal | N000015 | neal.house.gov | neal | https://neal.house.gov/category/press-releases/ | scraper | Washington, DC Today, Ways and Means Committee Chairman Richard E. Neal (D-MA) released the following statement after the introduction of bipartisan, bicameral end-of-year legislation: “This agreement isn’t perfect, but it will offer struggling workers, families, and businesses desperately needed support. Americans are suffering, wondering how they’ll afford basics like food, medications, and rent payments. Democrats ensured that the reinstatement and extension of critical unemployment assistance and a second round of direct payments made it in this package so that people will be able to cover their most immediate needs. Notably, eligibility for this new round of checks includes many mixed-status families who missed out on the first round of payments but will now have access to the federal aid. “There are a number of additional tax measures in the packages that will go a long way in supporting folks facing hardships while also helping get our economy back on track. We put more money in the pockets of working families by providing greater flexibility for those who are eligible to claim the Earned Income Tax Credit and Additional Child Tax Credit. Though we faced resistance, Democrats fought for and successfully secured inclusion of the expanded Employee Retention Tax Credit and the deductibility of expenses paid for using PPP loans, two provisions that incentivize the hiring and retention of workers. “We also made sure that the legislation includes key measures that will help us combat the public health emergency and save lives. Until we effectively address the virus and people are safe, our economy cannot fully recover. I’m extremely pleased that the package contains our bipartisan, bicameral agreement to protect patients from surprise medical bills – this is particularly crucial as the pandemic continues to spread and thrust Americans into unexpected health and financial peril. “This deal is a good starting point and an important step in the short-term, but more must be done as the pandemic continues to gri… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z |
| https://pressley.house.gov/media/press-releases/statement-rep-pressley-house-passage-covid-19-relief-package | Statement from Rep. Pressley on House Passage of COVID-19 Relief Package | 2020-12-21 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Ayanna Pressley | P000617 | pressley.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON Today, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) issued the following statement on the House passage of compromise legislation to address the COVID-19 pandemic. For nearly nine months now, workers and families in my district and across the country have been left to fend for themselves in the midst of an unprecedented public health and economic crisis that has robbed us of over 300,000 lives and shoved thousands of families into poverty. As a result of Republican stonewalling and negligence, our communities are experiencing record levels of food and housing insecurity, thousands have lost their jobs and our immigrant neighbors have been locked out of federal relief altogether. I have consistently heard from parents in my district who have exhausted their entire savings to keep the lights on and cover the costs of groceries, diapers and formula. I have heard from evicted seniors, immigrant families going hungry and essential workers deprived of PPE and access to paid leave and sick days. And I have heard from municipal leaders struggling to maintain critical jobs and services as the pandemic continues to worsen. I have fought every step of the way to strengthen this legislation and center those most impacted. Our fight continues. I want to recognize the grassroots organizing efforts and the partnership of my fellow progressives and Democrats in improving the legislation from where it stood only days ago. There is no doubt that these negotiations have been difficult given the callous disregard of the other side. It is because of our collective advocacy and organizing that direct cash payments are a part of this package, the Federal Reserve's authority to address future crises has not been severely limited, and that for the first time, mixed-status immigrant families will be able to access these critical resources. As a result of the efforts of Democrats, this package will include billions in rental assistance, resources to support the safe reopening of our schools, our public transportation systems and res… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://trahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1911 | Trahan Supports Relief Package, Calls for Work to Begin on Additional Aid | 2020-12-21 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Lori Trahan | T000482 | trahan.house.gov | legacy | Trahan Supports Relief Package, Calls for Work to Begin on Additional Aid WASHINGTON, DC Today,Congresswoman Lori Trahan (MA-03)supported passage of a funding package to keep the federal government open and deliver another round of COVID-19 relief. Following the vote, Trahan called for negotiators to begin work on another assistance package that can be signed into law early next year. Working families in Massachusetts and across our nation have been in dire need of help for months. I voted for this package not because it meets their needs, but because a lack of partnership and compassion from Mitch McConnell combined with the inattention of a President focused exclusively on undermining a lawful election has forced us to choose between the bare minimum or no relief at all,said Congresswoman Trahan. Congress must immediately begin work crafting a package similar to the CARES Act that actually delivers the level of relief that Americans and their families need. The COVID-19 relief contained in the package includes: Direct Payments:$166 billion in direct payments of up to $600 per individual plus another $600 per child. The phase out will be the same as the first round of CARES Act payments: $75,000 for single filers and $150,000 for joint filers. This provision of the package also ensures that mixed-status families receive payments. Enhanced Unemployment Benefit:Extends the Unemployment Insurance benefits available to workers laid off because the pandemic through March 14thand adds a $300 per week enhancement. Vaccine Distribution and COVID-19 Testing:$20 billion to support the purchasing of COVID-19 vaccines, $9 billion for vaccine distribution, and $22 billion to support states with COVID-19 testing, contact tracing, and efforts to slow the spread of the virus. The package also includes requirements that portions of the funds be used specifically for combating the disparities facing communities of color. Food Assistance for Hungry Families:… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-markey-and-rep-huffman-to-introduce-bicameral-legislation-to-protect-the-arctic-national-wildlife-refuge-in-the-new-congress | Senator Markey and Rep. Huffman to Introduce Bicameral Legislation to Protect the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge in the New CongressRead More | 2020-12-21 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | Blast lame-duck oil and gas lease sale and seismic exploration in Arctic Refuge as lease sale bidding begins today Washington (December 21, 2020) Today, the U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) and U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) began the process of accepting bids for an oil and gas lease sale for the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge currently scheduled to take place on January 6, 2021. Oil and gas exploration and seismic testing would threaten endangered polar bears in dens on the Coastal Plain and likely result in significant and long-lasting harm to the unique Arctic Refuge habitat, which is why Representative Jared Huffman (CA-02) and Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) will be introducing legislation in the new year to restore protections to the Arctic Refuge Coastal Plain and ensure that oil activities are never allowed to commence in this iconic wilderness. We have been fighting the Trump administration every step of the way in their rushed and malicious attacks on the Arctic Refuge. And we will be just as committed to protecting this treasured place in the new Congress, when we will thankfully have strong leaders like President-Elect Biden and soon-to-be Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland to partner with,said Rep. Huffman and Senator Markey.The Arctic National Wildlife Refuge is one of the last true wild places left in America, the source of the Gwich'in people's way of life for generations, and home to rare and threatened wildlife. This last-ditch effort to auction off this pristine land for destruction by whoever is willing to bid on it is not only immoral, but fiscally irresponsible and legally shaky. This past week, Senator Markey and Congressman Huffman werejoinedby 29 Senate and 79 House members in transmitting letters to DOI and BLM asking the agencies to halt efforts to proceed with the current lease sale and to also reject an application for seismic exploration that, if approved, would allow seismic testing to occur in the Arctic Refuge this winter. Multiples legal challenges have been… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://katherineclark.house.gov/press-releases?ID=42BB005D-D788-4B6F-9254-9A616ECAAC48 | Congresswoman Clark Receives First Dose of Pfizer COVID-19 Vaccine | 2020-12-19 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Katherine M. Clark | C001101 | katherineclark.house.gov | clark | https://katherineclark.house.gov/press-releases | scraper | 0 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | |
| https://pressley.house.gov/media/press-releases/congresswoman-pressley-receives-covid-19-vaccine | Congresswoman Pressley Receives COVID-19 Vaccine | 2020-12-19 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Ayanna Pressley | P000617 | pressley.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTONToday, at the direction of the Office of Attending PhysicianCongresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07)received the COVID-19 vaccine. The Congresswoman released the following statement: Today, I received my first dose of the Pfizer COVID 19 vaccine. I am feeling well and encourage everyone in our community to take the first opportunity available to receive the vaccine in the weeks and months to come. I am grateful to the scientists, researchers, and frontline healthcare workers who have worked tirelessly over the last several months to develop a vaccine that is safe and effective. Candidly, I did not expect I would be able to receive the vaccine this soon. I planned to receive the vaccine at a Community Health Center in my district later in 2021. Members of Congress received notice at the end of this week from the Attending Physician that doses would be made available to us as part of a continuity of government plan,' a measure put in place during national crises. After consulting with my family and my doctor, I decided that I would move forward with this opportunity to receive the vaccine. As someone who has experienced how broken our healthcare system is firsthand, throughout this crisis I have been deeply concerned about equity issues in access to care, treatment and prevention. Healthcare justice is not a reality in America. The inequities we see in our healthcare system are stark, and the research and medical community have deeply violated the trust of Black and brown people in America throughout our nation's history. It is up to our research and medical institutions, our elected officials, and our collective public health response to make amends and earn the trust of communities of color as we distribute this vaccine and rebuild. I will continue to fight in Washington and in Massachusetts to ensure that our frontline healthcare workers, those behind the wall, our essential workers, and the marginalized communities who have been hit hardest by this pandemic are able to access the vaccine rapidly and … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/sens-markey-blumenthal-heinrich-merkley-and-gillibrand-outline-recommendations-for-biden-administrations-government-wide-response-to-the-climate-and-environmental-justice-crisis | Sens. Markey, Blumenthal, Heinrich, Merkley, and Gillibrand Outline Recommendations for Biden Administrations Government-Wide Response to the Climate and Environmental Justice CrisisRead More | 2020-12-19 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | Washington (December 19, 2020) Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), member of the Environment and Public Works Committee, led Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), and Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.) in outlining a set of recommendations for the incoming Biden administration to ensure that new officials are provided with the staff, budget, and coordinating power necessary to supercharge the federal fight against the existential threat of climate change. In the letter, the lawmakers applauded the Biden-Harris transition team's work to prioritize climate-focused personnel in the transition announcements made this week, while also encouraging the Administration to uphold its campaign promise to build a government-wide response to address the climate crisis. We must fight boldly for intersectional climate solutions that move the nation toward clean, renewable energy and incorporate ambitious climate, health, labor, and equity standards at a scale commensurate with the crisis, write the Senators in the letter to President-elect Biden. We encourage your transition team to continue its work toward developing an empowered, organized, diverse, and unified team to achieve the President-Elect Joseph R. Biden, Jr. campaign's strong climate goalsbuilding an Administration that recognizes the gravity of the crisis and possesses the passion and energy needed to address it. A copy of the letter can be found HERE. The letter recommends that President-elect Biden empower the recently announced climate officials by establishing and restoring offices and entities focused on climate, environmental justice, and economic transition, including the creation of an overarching entity that reports directly to the president and is endowed with all the powers necessary to coordinate a national climate strategy across all federal departments and agencies. It also asks that the incoming Administration put climate justice at the forefront of the administration's strategy by appointing person… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://www.warren.senate.gov/newsroom/news-coverage/politico-warren-re-ups-bill-to-ban-stock-trading-by-lawmakers | Politico: Warren re-ups bill to ban stock trading by lawmakers | 2020-12-18 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Elizabeth Warren | W000817 | www.warren.senate.gov | legacy | December 18, 2020 Politico: Warren re-ups bill to ban stock trading by lawmakers The Massachusetts Democrat is making her push while two of her colleagues, Republicans David Perdue and Kelly Loeffler, are under fire for their stock trades. While Georgia's two Republican senators fend off campaign attacks on their stock trading, their Democratic colleague Elizabeth Warren is re-launching her bill to prevent lawmakers from making individual stock trades. Georgia Republican Sens. David Perdue and Kelly Loeffler both came under recent fire for buying and selling stocks at moments when they were privy to sensitive information about the companies they invested in. Each is now a candidate in Georgia's high-stakes January 5 runoff election, the outcome of which could change control of the Senate next year. Warren's proposed ban is part of a broader anti-corruption plan she promoted on the presidential campaign trail and is reintroducing with hopes that it can gain traction now that she has returned to the Senate. Warren, who said she would make such reform her first priority as president, proposes many changes to federal ethics law, including creating lifetime bans on lobbying for former members of Congress, expanding federal conflict-of-interest rules and barring lobbyists from fundraising for political candidates. Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.) introduced a companion bill in the House. Read the full articlehere. By: Maggie Severns Source: Politico Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://pressley.house.gov/media/press-releases/oversight-hearing-pressley-blasts-sacklers-purdue-pharma-execs-blaming-opioid | In Oversight Hearing, Pressley Blasts Sacklers, Purdue Pharma Execs for Blaming Opioid Crisis on People With Substance Use Disorder | 2020-12-18 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Ayanna Pressley | P000617 | pressley.house.gov | legacy | Video (YouTube) WASHINGTON Yesterday, in a House Oversight Committee hearing, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) blasted Purdue Pharma executives and members of the Sackler family for their role in fueling the opioid crisis and for consistently placing the blame on people who suffer from addiction. A full transcript of her exchange with witnesses is available below and a full video is available here. Transcript: Pressley Blasts Purdue Pharma Execs for Blaming Opioid Crisis on People With Substance Use Disorder House Committee on Oversight and Reform December 17, 2020 REP. PRESSLEY: The crisis of opioid addiction has destabilized families and communities throughout the country, including in the Massachusetts 7th, which I have the honor of representing. Now, while the Commonwealth in 2014, was the first state to declare opioids a public health emergency, my constituents are still to this day fighting addiction and trying to heal from the pain and trauma created by the Sackler family. Despite the havoc wrecked by Purdue Pharma, community-based recovery centers have served as critical resources, like the Massachusetts Organization for Addiction Recovery and STEPRox, who have cared for my constituents with compassion. As the daughter of a parent who struggled with opioid substance use disorder, I know firsthand that we need to invest in these support systems and end the stigma and the criminalization of addiction. People who are battling addiction are not criminals. They are not misbehaving. They are managing a harrowing disease that afflicts them every single day. Mr. Sackler, yes or no, do you agree that addiction is a disease? MR. SACKLER: I do, yes. REP. PRESSLEY: Dr. Sackler, yes or no, do you agree that addiction is a disease? DR. SACKLER: Yes. REP. PRESSLEY: Based on documents obtained by the Massachusetts Attorney General, this was not always your family's viewparticularly when the opioid crisis was first unfolding and generating bad press for OxyContin. According to an internal email, marked as Docu… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://trahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1901 | Congresswoman Lori Trahan Secures Appointment to Powerful Energy and Commerce Committee | 2020-12-18 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Lori Trahan | T000482 | trahan.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, DC Yesterday, Congresswoman Lori Trahan (MA-03) was nominated for an appointment to the powerful House Energy and Commerce Committee, making her the only Massachusetts member on the Committee in the 117th Congress. Considered one of the most important committees in the House because of its broad jurisdiction, a seat on the Energy and Commerce Committee will enable Trahan to further deliver on a wide range of priorities important to workers and families in the Third District and across the Commonwealth. The issues before the Energy and Commerce Committee impact the everyday lives of people across Massachusetts, including continuing our response to COVID-19 and the development and distribution of vaccines. As someone who grew up in a family that lived paycheck to paycheck, I understand the importance of access to quality, affordable health care and being able to afford lifesaving prescription medicine. Rooted in my lived experiences, these issues, along with our urgent need to clean up our environment and rein in the dominance of big tech, are top priorities for me on the Committee. Working in close coordination with the Biden administration, I will use this appointment to deliver for working families like the one I grew up in, for our health care heroes on the front lines, for scientists and researchers working to prevent the next pandemic, and for activists fighting for action on climate change, said Congresswoman Trahan. The Energy and Commerce Committee has the broadest jurisdiction of any committee in the House of Representatives. Members of the Committee are tasked with oversight and legislation of health care, insurance, biomedical research, environmental policy, climate change, electronic and telecommunications, the internet and digital marketplace, privacy, cybersecurity, data security, motor vehicle safety, and interstate and foreign commerce. At a moment when representation on the Committee will prove especially critical in the fight against COVID-19, Trahan garnered unanimous… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-markey-statement-on-gina-mccarthy-appointment-as-domestic-climate-czar | Senator Markey Statement on Gina McCarthy Appointment as Domestic Climate CzarRead More | 2020-12-18 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | Washington (December 17, 2020) Senator Edward J. Markey, member of the Environment and Public Works Committee and co-author of the Green New Deal resolution, released the following statement after media reported that former Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator and Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC) President Gina McCarthy will be named the Biden administration's domestic climate czar. There's no one better to be at the tip of the spear in the fight against climate change than Gina McCarthy, said Senator Markey. Gina is one of the most skilled and tenacious climate warriors with whom I've had the honor to work. She has leadership ability and universal respect to coordinate all aspects of this existential threat, and will be ready on Day 1 to make progress on clean energy and climate solutions. If there is anyone who can enact a bold vision, coordinate a whole-of-government response, and hit the ground running, it's Gina McCarthy. For climate action to be a day-one priority, our work cannot wait until January 20, 2021it must begin now as the Biden team determines personnel appointments and agency agendas. We need a government-wide approach that includes a strong domestic climate office, with the new climate czar reporting directly to the President and endowed with all the powers necessary to direct a national climate strategy across all federal departments and agencies, with environmental and climate justice at the forefront of this strategy. I am confident that under a Biden-Harris administration, we will pursue the most comprehensive climate agenda our country has ever known. We will not stop fighting until we take the bold, aggressive action that the science tells us is necessary and make the Green New Deal a reality. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://pressley.house.gov/media/press-releases/pressley-omar-waters-adams-introduce-bold-resolution-calling-president-elect | Pressley, Omar, Waters, Adams Introduce Bold Resolution Calling on President-Elect Biden to Cancel $50,000 in Federal Student Loan Debt | 2020-12-17 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Ayanna Pressley | P000617 | pressley.house.gov | legacy | Cancellation Would Reduce Racial Wealth Gap, Stimulate Economy, and Provide Much-Needed Economic Relief Amid Pandemic Resolution (PDF) | One Pager (PDF) WASHINGTON Today, Congresswomen Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Ilhan Omar (MN-05), Maxine Waters (CA-43), Chair of the House Financial Services Committee, and Alma Adams (NC-12) introduced a resolution outlining a bold plan for President-elect Joe Biden to cancel up to $50,000 in Federal student loan debt for student loan borrowers using existing legal authority under the Higher Education Act. The resolution, which outlines a pathway for the President-elect to use executive authority to cancel student loan debt while ensuring cancellation does not result in any tax liability for Federal student loan borrowers, is the House companion to Senate Resolution 711, introduced by Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) earlier this year. Original co-sponsors of the House resolution include Congresswomen Madeleine Dean (PA-04), Pramila Jayapal (WA-07), Barbara Lee (CA-13) and Jahana Hayes (CT-05). The student debt crisis is a racial and economic justice issue and we must finally begin to address it as such. Broad-based student debt cancellation is precisely the kind of bold, high-impact policy that the broad and diverse coalition that elected Joe Biden and Kamala Harris expect them to deliver, said Congresswoman Pressley. As we work to fight for meaningful economic relief for workers and families that meets the scale and scope of the crisis we face, canceling student debt is one of the most effective ways to provide direct relief to millions, help reduce the racial wealth gap, stimulate our economy, and begin to deliver an equitable and just recovery. On day one of his Administration, President-elect Biden will have the executive authority to cancel billions in student debt with the stroke of a pen. This resolution lays out a plan for him to do exactly that. Over 90 percent of student debt is held by the federal government, which Pre… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://pressley.house.gov/media/press-releases/video-rep-pressley-calls-robust-direct-cash-payments-people | VIDEO: Rep. Pressley Calls for Robust Direct Cash Payments for the People | 2020-12-17 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Ayanna Pressley | P000617 | pressley.house.gov | legacy | Video (YouTube) WASHINGTON Today, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) delivered remarks on the House floor in which she called for robust direct cash payments for the American people to be included as part of any COVID relief package. A full transcript of her remarks, as delivered, is available below. Transcript: Rep. Pressley Calls for Robust Direct Cash Payments for the People U.S. House of Representatives December 17, 2020 Madam Speaker, I rise today on behalf of the people. The people who are struggling and feel abandoned by their government during this crisis. I rise in solidarity with every parent who has struggled to buy diapers and formula. Every family behind on rent or crushed by the grief of an empty chair at the kitchen table. Our people are crying out sick, tired, hungry and broken. The people we have taken an oath to serve and protect need direct cash to survive the winter. We must send them survival checks immediately. Some of my colleagues are patting themselves on the back for sending corporations payoutscorporations, by the way, who have profited off of people during this pandemicand shaming families on the edge. Shame on them, their theatrics and their callousness. 450 pennies a day for the last nine months. That's what our government has sent the American people to weather this crisis. And nothing for the immigrant families who drive our essential workforce. It didn't have to be this way. Our families deserve direct cash, real survival checks. $600 is hardly sufficientit is an insult. We must act to save lives now. The pandemic has not discriminated in its hardship, but it would seem compassion and empathy have. Thank you, I yield. # # # | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://trahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1902 | Congresswoman Trahan Applauds $1.8 Million in Head Start Funding for Community Action, Inc in Haverhill | 2020-12-17 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Lori Trahan | T000482 | trahan.house.gov | legacy | LOWELL, MA -Today,Congresswoman Lori Trahan (MA-03),a member of the House Education and Labor Committee, announced $1,803,213 in federal Head Start funding for Community Action, Inc., a non-profit organization in Haverhill. This grant was awarded by the Department of Health and Human Services' Administration for Children and Families' Office of Head Start. The outstanding staff at Community Action, Inc. have spent nearly every day for the past eight months working to deliver critical resources to families in need throughout Haverhill and surrounding communities,said Congresswoman Trahan. Their emergency programming has allowed students and families to access top tier developmental resources and opportunities, even during the COVID-19 pandemic. This federal funding will help them expand their footprint in our community and set up even more students and their families for success. Community Action, Inc. is grateful for the Head Start grant award from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services,saidKerri Sheeran Perry, CEO of Community Action, Inc.This critical funding will allow us to continue providing high quality early learning programming to hundreds of eligible children in the Greater Haverhill area. CAI's early learning program includes a strong, curriculum-based education with nutritional support, and family resources. Background: Congresswoman Lori Trahan has used her position as a member of the House Education and Labor Committee to advocate for increased funding for Head Start. In negotiations over Fiscal Year (FY) 2020 appropriations, Trahan successfully requested increased funding for Head Start. The program received $11.6 billion in funding for the year, an increase of $1.5 billion over the total allocated for FY2019. Trahan continues to advocate for additional funding for this important program, having supported a similar request for increased Head Start funding in FY2021 appropriations negotiations. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://mcgovern.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398652 | House Hunger Caucus Co-Chair Jim McGovern Urges President-elect Biden to Appoint Hunger Czar to Fight Food Insecurity in America | 2020-12-16 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Jim McGovern | M000312 | mcgovern.house.gov | legacy | Calls for a Rollback of Trump-Era SNAP Cuts Following Alarming Increase of Hunger During COVID-19 Pandemic share: f t WASHINGTON, D.C. Congressman James P. McGovern (D-MA), Chairman of the House Rules Committee and Co-Chair of the House Hunger Caucus, is urging President-elect Joseph R. Biden to appoint a hunger czar to develop, coordinate, and implement a national strategy to reduce food insecurity in America. McGovern also called for a rollback of Trump-era regulatory changes that make it harder to qualify for nutrition assistance programs.The proposals are part of a list of recommendations McGovern has made to the incoming administration to address alarming levels of hunger caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. As you prepare to lead the country in our efforts to end the pandemic and rebuild our economy, I urge you to prioritize our national response to hunger,wrote McGovern in his letter to President-elect Biden.With an unprecedentedfifteen percent of Americans 50 million people in total struggling with food insecurity, there has never been a more pressing time to strengthen our country's social safety nets. McGovern has been a harsh critic of the Trump administration's failure to address hunger. As lines for food banks stretch down the block and around the corner, President Trump is missing in action, hewrote in a July op-ed,whilefighting to block the administrationfrom cutting nutrition benefits during the ongoing pandemic. The need is real and people are desperate, McGovernsaid during a recent appearanceon CSPAN's Washington Journal. Full text of the letter is available here (PDF)and copied below. Dear President-elect Biden, As you prepare to lead the country in our efforts to end the pandemic and rebuild our economy, I urge you to prioritize our national response to hunger. With an unprecedented fifteen percent of Americans 50 million people in total struggling with food insecurity, there has never been a more pressing time to strengthen our … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://trahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1897 | Congresswoman Lori Trahan Announces Third District Winners for the 2020 Congressional App Challenge | 2020-12-16 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Lori Trahan | T000482 | trahan.house.gov | legacy | LOWELL, MA - Today, Congresswoman Lori Trahan (MA-03) announced Westford eighth graders, Arav Jain and Som Lunavat, the winners of the Third Congressional District's annual Congressional App Challenge (CAC). The two students' application, Work for Cause, was selected by a panel of local judges from a pool of submissions from middle and high school students who participated in this year's competition. "The Congressional App Challenge is a great way to recognize the incredible innovation and coding ability of students across the nation and here, in Massachusetts' Third District," said Congresswoman Trahan. I am grateful to all of the students who put countless hours of hard work into their submissions and made this decision difficult for our judges. I am thrilled to award this year's winners, Arav Jain and Som Lunavat. As we navigate the COVID-19 pandemic, we have relied heavily on community resources to continually support those struggling the most, and this new app will allow these vital organizations to stay even more connected to their volunteers. The Work for Cause application helps nonprofit organizations connect with volunteers from the technology community. In order to improve engagement with their community, nonprofit organizations need to develop videos and produce web applications and mobile content. Many nonprofits find themselves unable to afford these necessities, putting them at a disadvantage in their community. This new app connects nonprofit organizations to the technological assistance they need to ensure their resources are as accessible as possible to employees, volunteers, and those they serve. I would like to thank Congresswoman Lori Trahan for recognizing WorkForCause.org app as the winner of our district. With this app, I hope to help non profit organizations get the volunteers they need and help our community, said Arav Jain. The Congressional App Challenge motivated me to develop this app and try to make a difference in our lives using technology. I learned new program… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-markey-and-rep-huffman-lead-letters-opposing-lame-duck-oil-and-gas-lease-sale-and-seismic-exploration-in-arctic-refuge | Senator Markey and Rep. Huffman Lead Letters Opposing Lame Duck Oil and Gas Lease Sale and Seismic Exploration in Arctic RefugeRead More | 2020-12-16 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | Washington (December 16, 2020) Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) and Congressman Jared Huffman (CA-02), Chair of the House Natural Resources Subcommittee on Water, Oceans, and Wildlife, were joined today by 29 Senate and 79 House members in expressing strong opposition to the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge oil and gas lease sale scheduled for January 6, 2021. In companion letters sent to the Department of Interior, the group of lawmakers ask the U.S. Bureau of Land Management to halt efforts to proceed with the lease sale and reject an application for seismic exploration that, if approved, would allow seismic testing to occur in the Arctic Refuge this winter. Oil and gas exploration and seismic testing would threaten endangered polar bears in dens on the Coastal Plain, and would likely result in significant and long-lasting harm to the unique Refuge habitat. The Coastal Plain of the Arctic Refuge is a national treasure that is no place for oil and gas exploration and development activities, and none should occur there, write the Senators in their letter to Interior Department Secretary David Bernhardt. It is also wholly unacceptable that the Trump administration seeks to hold a lease sale as one of its final actions. Given the result of the 2020 presidential election, any lease-sale decision should be left to the incoming Biden administration. The oil and gas leasing program was adopted in violation of numerous laws that protect the Coastal Plain and ensure the integrity of the decision-making process, write the House members in their letter. As a result of these violations, BLM's actions to date are currently the subject of four separate lawsuits. Before moving forward with these proposals, the BLM must remedy these legal deficiencies and ensure full compliance with numerous federal laws including the Alaska National Interest Lands Conservation Act, the National Environmental Policy Act, the National Historic Preservation Act, the Wilderness Act, the Endangered Species Act, the Ta… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-markey-and-rubio-applaud-senate-passage-of-legislation-to-award-congressional-gold-medal-to-american-heroes-killed-in-2012-benghazi-consulate-attack | Senators Markey and Rubio Applaud Senate Passage of Legislation to Award Congressional Gold Medal To American Heroes Killed in 2012 Benghazi Consulate AttackRead More | 2020-12-16 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | Bill honors selfless sacrifice of Ambassador Christopher Stevens, Glen A. Doherty, Tyrone Woods, and Sean Smith Washington (December 16, 2020) Senators Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) and Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), along with Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), and Shelley Moore Capito (D-W.V.) applauded U.S. Senate passage of their bipartisan legislation (S.2054) to posthumously award the Congressional Gold Medal to J. Christopher Stevens, Glen A. Doherty, Tyrone Woods and Sean Smith in recognition of their service to and defense of the United States of America. Stevens, Doherty, Woods and Smith were killed in the attack on the U.S. consulate in Benghazi, Libya in September 2012. Christopher Stevens, a member of the Career Foreign Service, was serving as United States Ambassador to Libya during the attack. Doherty, a former combat-decorated Navy SEAL, was a native of Winchester, Massachusetts. Woods, a native of Portland, Oregon was also a former combat-decorated Navy SEAL. Smith, a native of San Diego, had served in the Air Force where he was awarded the Air Force Commendation Medal. The bravery of Glen Doherty, Tyrone Woods, Sean Smith and Ambassador Stevens must be remembered and honored. Our diplomats, armed forces, and all who proudly serve our country overseas deserve our utmost respect, recognition, and gratitude. I am honored to have led the effort that will honor them as the American heroes we know them to be, said Senator Markey. The Congressional Gold Medal is the highest honor the legislative branch can bestow upon any individual, and I look forward to awarding them and their families with this rare distinction that will honor their legacy for generations to come. I urge the House of Representatives to prioritize the bill's swift passage. Honoring our fallen fellow Americans, who were murdered during a terrorist attack in our nation's consulate in Benghazi, commemorates not only their legacy but also their s… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-warren-and-markey-convene-bipartisan-advisory-committee-on-nomination-of-united-states-attorney-for-the-district-of-massachusetts | Senators Warren and Markey Convene Bipartisan Advisory Committee on Nomination of United States Attorney for the District of MassachusettsRead More | 2020-12-16 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | Washington, DC -United States SenatorsElizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) today announced they will convene a bipartisan advisory committee to review and provide recommendations on U.S. Attorney candidates for the District of Massachusetts. Candidates interested in applying for the U.S. Attorneypositionmust submit their applications to the Advisory Committee by December 24, 2020. The Advisory Committee on United States Attorney for the District of Massachusetts Nominations will solicit, interview, and comment on applications for the position of U.S. Attorney for the District of Massachusetts, the state's top federal law enforcementofficer. The Advisory Committee comprises distinguished members of the Massachusetts legal community, including prominent academics and litigators, and is chaired by formerU.S.District Court Judge Nancy Gertner. "The Advisory Committee plays an important role ensuring that a highly-qualified, fair-minded, and justice seeking candidate is appointedasU.S. Attorney for the District of Massachusetts,"said Senators Warren and Markey."Welook forward to receiving the committee's recommendations." Applications for the position will be reviewed byNancy Gertner, former United States District Judge of the United States District Court for the District of Massachusetts; Elissa Flynn-Poppey, former Deputy Legal Counsel to Governor Romney and Executive Director of the Judicial Nominating Commission for the Office of the Governor of Massachusetts; Angela Onwuachi-Willig, Dean oftheBoston University School of Law; Walter Prince, Partner at Prince Lobel and former president oftheMassachusetts Black Lawyers Association; Georgia Katsoulomitis, Executive Director oftheMassachusetts Law Reform Institute; Jennifer Levi, Professor of Law at Western New England University School of Law and Director of the Gay and Lesbian Advocates and Defenders (GLAD) Transgender Rights Project; and John Pucci, Partner and trial lawyer at Buckley Richardson.Interested candidates m… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/warren-markey-keating-joint-statement-on-attorney-general-maura-healeys-investigation-into-the-may-1-2020-incident-at-bristol-county-jail | Warren, Markey, Keating Joint Statement on Attorney General Maura Healey's Investigation Into the May 1, 2020 Incident at Bristol County JailRead More | 2020-12-16 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | Washington, DC - United States Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and Edward J. Markey (D-MA), along with Representative William Keating (D-MA-09) released a joint statement on Attorney General Maura Healey's investigation into the violent events of May 1, 2020 at the C. Carlos Carreiro Immigration Detention Center, Unit B, Bristol County Sheriff's office."The thorough investigation by the Office of Attorney General Healey compiled significant evidence that the Bristol County Sheriff's Office violated the civil rights of immigrants detained at the facility. We agree with the report's recommendation that the Bristol County Sheriff's Office should not be engaged in immigrant detention," said the lawmakers in a joint statement. "Every person - regardless of their immigration status and regardless of where they are living - deserves to feel safe, to have access to due process under the law, to be treated with dignity, and to have their rights protected. We led our colleagues in calling on the Department of Homeland Security Inspector General and the Office for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties to conduct a federal investigation of these events. We look forward to the findings of that additional investigation, which we expect to help determine accountability for this disturbing incident and to offer further recommendations about how such events can be avoided in the future."In May, shortly after the violent altercation, Senators Warren and Markey, along with Representatives Keating and Joseph P. Kennedy III (D-MA-04), wrote to Bristol County Sheriff Thomas M. Hodgson to express alarm about the incident, to request that Sheriff Hodgson preserve video of the events to facilitate an investigation, and to allow persons detained at the facility to speak with their attorneys immediately. The four lawmakers also led the entire Massachusetts Congressional Delegation, as well as several members of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus-Chairman Joaquin Castro (D-Texas) and Representatives Jess G. "Chuy" Garca … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://www.warren.senate.gov/newsroom/news-coverage/forbes-the-bankruptcy-code-is-stacked-against-black-families-elizabeth-warrens-new-bill-would-change-that | Forbes: The Bankruptcy Code Is Stacked Against Black Families. Elizabeth Warren’s New Bill Would Change That | 2020-12-15 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Elizabeth Warren | W000817 | www.warren.senate.gov | legacy | December 15, 2020 Forbes: The Bankruptcy Code Is Stacked Against Black Families. Elizabeth Warren's New Bill Would Change That Bankruptcy offers an exit route for families and businesses trapped by debt. In 2019, Forever 21, Barneys New York and Payless ShoeSource declared bankruptcy. Donald Trump's businesses have declared bankruptcy on six occasions. The Bankruptcy Abuse and Protection Act of 2005 made bankruptcy much more expensive and time-consuming for ordinary Americans to access. After the passage of BAPCA, typical costs for declaring bankruptcy rose from $663 to $986 for Chapter 7 bankruptcy, and from $1,847 to $2,515 for Chapter 13 bankruptcy. Read the full articlehere. By: Elena Botella Source: Forbes Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://lynch.house.gov/2020/12/rep-lynch-and-ma-delegation-call-for-explanation-of-mbta-cuts-and-commitment-to-restore-full-services | Rep. Lynch And MA Delegation Call For Explanation Of MBTA Cuts And Commitment To Restore Full Services | 2020-12-15 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Stephen F. Lynch | L000562 | lynch.house.gov | lynch | https://lynch.house.gov/press-releases | scraper | Boston, MA —Yesterday, U.S. Representative Stephen F. Lynch (MA-08), U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and Edward Markey (D-MA), and U.S. Representatives Richard Neal (MA-1), James P. McGovern (MA-2), Lori Trahan (MA-03), Joseph P. Kennedy III (MA-04), Seth Moulton (MA-06), Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), and William Keating (MA-09), sent a letter to MBTA General Manager Steve Poftak requesting a full explanation for the proposed short-term and long-term cuts to MBTA services. “As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, we worry that the proposed cuts will disproportionately impact riders from underserved communities. These riders likely have no other method of transportation and rely on MBTA services and expanded hours of service for their essential travel needs,” wrote the lawmakers. “Many of these riders—and MBTA employees themselves—are essential workers who have stepped up to help us face this public health crisis. The cuts could also add volume to each trip, further exacerbating public health risks for riders and workers alike. Reduce transit options for riders and employment opportunities for MBTA workers at this time is incongruous with the support and recognition they deserve for the risks taken to continue providing the essential services to the Commonwealth.” “We consider public transit to be a public good and will continue to fight for federal funding for the Commonwealth’s public transportation infrastructure,” they continued. “As such, we request that the MBTA further evaluate this proposal and provide clear evidence demonstrating the need for this degree of service reduction before moving forward with implementation at this precarious time. In addition to requesting evidence that demonstrates the need for the severity of the proposed service cuts, the Delegation Members expressed their expectation that any service cuts would be fully restored as soon as possible. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z |
| https://lynch.house.gov/press-releases?ID=3D363F14-5969-4CCD-8FBE-8BD890ABCBE6 | Rep. Lynch And MA Delegation Call For Explanation Of MBTA Cuts And Commitment To Restore Full Services | 2020-12-15 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Stephen Lynch | L000562 | lynch.house.gov | legacy | Boston, MA —Yesterday, U.S. Representative Stephen F. Lynch (MA-08), U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and Edward Markey (D-MA), and U.S. Representatives Richard Neal (MA-1), James P. McGovern (MA-2), Lori Trahan (MA-03), Joseph P. Kennedy III (MA-04), Seth Moulton (MA-06), Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), and William Keating (MA-09), sent a letter to MBTA General Manager Steve Poftak requesting a full explanation for the proposed short-term and long-term cuts to MBTA services. “As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, we worry that the proposed cuts will disproportionately impact riders from underserved communities. These riders likely have no other method of transportation and rely on MBTA services and expanded hours of service for their essential travel needs,” wrote the lawmakers. “Many of these riders—and MBTA employees themselves—are essential workers who have stepped up to help us face this public health crisis. The cuts could also add volume to each trip, further exacerbating public health risks for riders and workers alike. Reduce transit options for riders and employment opportunities for MBTA workers at this time is incongruous with the support and recognition they deserve for the risks taken to continue providing the essential services to the Commonwealth.” “We consider public transit to be a public good and will continue to fight for federal funding for the Commonwealth’s public transportation infrastructure,” they continued. “As such, we request that the MBTA further evaluate this proposal and provide clear evidence demonstrating the need for this degree of service reduction before moving forward with implementation at this precarious time. In addition to requesting evidence that demonstrates the need for the severity of the proposed service cuts, the Delegation Members expressed their expectation that any service cuts would be fully restored as soon as possible. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z | ||
| https://pressley.house.gov/media/press-releases/pressley-leads-lawmakers-calling-president-elect-biden-end-death-penalty-first | Pressley Leads Lawmakers in Calling on President-Elect Biden to End Death Penalty on First Day in Office | 2020-12-15 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Ayanna Pressley | P000617 | pressley.house.gov | legacy | Text of Letter (PDF) WASHINGTON Today, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) led 41 of her House colleagues and three Representatives-Elect on a letter calling on President-Elect Joe Biden to end the use of the federal death penalty on his first day in office. The Congresswoman's letter comes as the Trump Administration continues its killing spree, executing more people in six months than the total number executed over the previous six decades. Your historic election with record turnout represents a national mandate to make meaningful progress in reforming our unjust and inhumane criminal legal system, wrote the lawmakers. Ending the barbaric practice of government-sanctioned murder is a commonsense step that you can and must take to save lives. Capital punishment is unjust, racist and defective. The United States stands alone among its peers in executing its own citizens, a barbaric punishment that denies the dignity and humanity of all people and is disproportionatelyapplied to people who are Black, Latinx, and poor. For example, Black people make up less than 13 percent of the nation's population while accounting for more than 42 percent of those on death row. A nationwide study found that at least 1 in 25 people sentenced to death are innocent, while research has shown that capital punishment does not deter crime. In their letter, the lawmakers called on President-Elect Biden to affirm his commitment to eliminating the death penaltyas laid out in his criminal justice reform planby ending it through executive action on Day 1 of his administration. The lawmakers also made clear that in the 117th Congress, they will continue to work toadvance H.R. 4052, Congresswoman Pressley's legislation to permanently abolish the death penalty and require the resentencing of those currently sentenced to death, and use their oversight authority to investigate the use of lethal injection drugs and its violation of the Eighth Amendment. With a stroke of your pen, you can stop all federal executions, prohibit United State… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/mcgovern-markey-and-pressley-demand-answers-from-usdafollowing-reports-of-food-box-shortages | McGovern, Markey, and Pressley Demand Answers From USDA Following Reports of Food Box ShortagesRead More | 2020-12-15 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON In light of recent reports from constituents that the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Families Food Box Program is struggling to meet the needs of Massachusetts families, Representative James P. McGovern (MA-02), Senator Edward J. Markey (D-MA) and Representative Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) are leading the Massachusetts delegation in demanding answers from USDA administratorsthat oversee the program, and are requesting a meeting with the USDA to discuss the challenges that food box recipients and distributors are facing in Massachusetts. In addition to McGovern, Markey, and Pressley, the letter was signed by Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Richard E. Neal (MA-01), Stephen F. Lynch (MA-08), Katherine Clark (MA-05), William Keating (MA-09), Joseph P. Kennedy III (MA-04), Seth Moulton (MA-06), and Lori Trahan (MA-03). Authorized by the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, the Farmers to Families Food Box Program purchases and distributes agricultural products to schools, food banks, and families in need. However,recentlyMcGovern, Markey, and Pressley learned that the program has not met the needs of Massachusetts residents. In recent weeks, we have received reports that the Northeast Region's new fourth-round contractor, Whitsons Culinary Group, is now unable to service many of the same Massachusetts schools and food banks that received food boxes in the Program's prior rounds,wrote the Massachusetts lawmakers in their letter.In our conversations with Whitsons, we learned that regional needs not only vastly outweigh its contracted capacity, but also that, as of December 3, 2020, it has a waitlist of 21 organizationsmany of which are previous food box recipients now without a supplier. In Massachusetts, the food-insecurity rate has increased by 53% during the pandemic, with one in seven residents lacking access to enough food for three healthy meals per day, and one in five children living in food-insecure households, according to the Greater Boston Food … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-markey-and-warren-and-reps-keating-and-kennedy-applaud-keeping-wcvb-on-air-in-bristol-county | Senators Markey and Warren, and Reps. Keating and Kennedy Applaud Keeping WCVB on Air in Bristol CountyRead More | 2020-12-15 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | Washington (December 15, 2020) Senators Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) and Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), and Congressmen Bill Keating (MA-09) and Joseph P. Kennedy III (MA-04) today praised the agreement between Comcast Corporation and Hearst Television to keep continue airing WCVB, the Boston ABC affiliate owned by Hearst, in Bristol County. Earlier this month, the Massachusetts lawmakers sent a letter expressing concerns about reports that starting on December 22, 2020 Comcast subscribers in Bristol County would no longer be able to view WCVB. Massachusetts residents rely on in-state news every day, and as viewers across the Commonwealth continue to navigate the ongoing public health and economic crises, they need up-to-date information that is relevant to their families, said the Massachusetts lawmakers. We applaud Comcast and Hearst for heeding our call, reaching this agreement, and doing the right thing on behalf of their customers in Massachusetts. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-markey-van-hollen-and-bennet-and-rep-meng-applaud-inclusion-of-3-billion-in-e-rate-distance-learning-funding-in-bipartisan-senate-coronavirus-proposal | Senators Markey, Van Hollen, and Bennet, and Rep. Meng Applaud Inclusion of $3 Billion in E-rate Distance Learning Funding in Bipartisan Senate Coronavirus ProposalRead More | 2020-12-15 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | Washington (December 14, 2020) Senators Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.),Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.),Michael Bennet (D-Colo.),and Congresswoman Grace Meng (NY-01) today applauded inclusion of their legislation the Emergency Educational Connections Act and $3 billion in funding for the E-rate program in the bipartisan Senate coronavirus relief proposal. The lawmakers' legislation funds elementary and secondary schools and libraries, including tribal schools and libraries, to provide Wi-Fi hotspots, modems, routers, and internet-enabled devices, including internet service through such equipment, to students, staff, and patrons. It would also allow schools and libraries to continue to use the equipment after the emergency period. We are pleased to see our legislation that funds K-12 distance learning included in this bipartisan coronavirus relief package, said the lawmakers. We cannot afford to wait another day to connect online our nation's most vulnerable children to their educators and classmates and to ensure the homework gap' does not grow into a damaging learning gap as the pandemic continues. This $3 billion in E-rate funding is a strong down payment on ensuring all kids can continue to learn and develop throughout this health crisis. TheEmergency Educational Connections Act, introduced in May by a group of 46 Democratic Senators and by Rep. Meng in the House of Representatives, would appropriate at least $4 billion to be delivered through the E-Rate program to equip students with internet connectivity and devices during the ongoing pandemic.Since the E-Rate began nearly two decades ago, more than $52 billion has been committed nationwide to provide internet access for schools and libraries.Senator Markey is the author of the original E-Rate program, which was created as a part of the 1996 Telecommunications Act. The program is designed to connect schools and libraries to the Internet, as well as ensure access for low-income students and families. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://www.warren.senate.gov/newsroom/news-coverage/mother-jones-exclusive-read-elizabeth-warrens-scathing-report-on-corrupt-prison-audits | Mother Jones: Exclusive: Read Elizabeth Warren’s Scathing Report on “Corrupt” Prison Audits | 2020-12-14 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Elizabeth Warren | W000817 | www.warren.senate.gov | legacy | December 14, 2020 Mother Jones: Exclusive: Read Elizabeth Warren's Scathing Report on Corrupt Prison Audits The result has been the rubber-stamping of dangerous facilities and the waste of millions of taxpayer dollars. The organization responsible for accrediting US prisons, jails, and detention centers runs a corrupt process that puts a rubber stamp on dangerous facilities while taking in millions from the private prison industry, according to a scathing report from Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), shared exclusively with Mother Jones. The report, the result of a nearly 19-month investigation by the senator's office, examined the American Correctional Association (ACA), a nongovernmental organization that acts simultaneously as a professional association and an oversight body for prison and detention systems. Federal, state, and local governments pay the ACA to audit the facilities where they keep people incarcerated and issue its stamp of approval on their operations. Qualifying facilities must meet the standards ACA spells out in its published manuals, covering everything from fire code compliance to officer gun training. Private prisons and detention centers, meanwhile, are often required to get accredited by the ACA to access lucrative government contracts, according to Warren's reportand when scrutinized, they point to their accreditation status as a defense. After all, the ACA's website says, accreditation is awarded to the best of the best. Read the full articlehere. By: Madison Pauly Source: Mother Jones Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| http://www.warren.senate.gov/newsroom/news-coverage/politico-senate-democrats-press-trump-on-possible-vaccine-shortage | Politico: Senate Democrats press Trump on possible vaccine shortage | 2020-12-14 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Elizabeth Warren | W000817 | www.warren.senate.gov | legacy | December 14, 2020 Politico: Senate Democrats press Trump on possible vaccine shortage They questioned if the U.S. is facing a vaccine cliff after the administration reportedly passed up offers to buy more Pfizer doses. Senate Democrats are pressing the Trump administration to explain whether the United States could soon face a critical shortage of Covid-19 vaccine doses, citing recent reports that the White House passed on Pfizer's repeated offers to purchase additional shots. "We are concerned the failure to secure an adequate supply of vaccines will needlessly prolong the COVID-19 pandemic in this country, causing further loss of life and economic devastation," a group of senior lawmakers wrote to leaders of Operation Warp Speed, the government's vaccine accelerator, in a letter shared with POLITICO. The Trump administration in July agreed to purchase 100 million doses of Pfizer's vaccine, which started rolling out across the country on Monday after the shot became the first to receive an emergency-use authorization from the Food and Drug Administration. The nearly $2 billion deal included an option to buy an additional 500 million shots of the two-dose vaccine. Read the full articlehere. By: Dan Diamond Source: Politico Print Email Tweet Next Article Previous Article | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://katherineclark.house.gov/press-releases?ID=90EBB991-2C45-4AFA-A632-00C374DB4C57 | Clark Leads Delegation Letter Calling For Explanation of MBTA Cuts, Calls for Commitment to Restore Full Services | 2020-12-14 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Katherine M. Clark | C001101 | katherineclark.house.gov | clark | https://katherineclark.house.gov/press-releases | scraper | 0 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | |
| https://mcgovern.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398648 | McGovern, Rubio Ask CEOs of Intel and NVIDIA About Possible Involvement in Human Rights Abuses in Xinjiang | 2020-12-14 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Jim McGovern | M000312 | mcgovern.house.gov | legacy | McGovern, Rubio Ask CEOs of Intel and NVIDIA About Possible Involvement in Human Rights Abuses in Xinjiang f t # e Washington, December 14, 2020 Washington, D.C. Representative James P. McGovern (D-MA) and Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL), the Chair and Cochair, respectively, of the bipartisan and bicameral Congressional-Executive Commission on China sent letters to the Chief Executive Officers (CEO) of both Intel Corporation andNVIDIAseeking additional information about the sale of advanced computer chips helping to power a supercomputer used by People's Republic of China (PRC) security forces to conduct mass surveillance and other human rights abuses against Uyghurs, Kazakhs, and other predominately Muslim ethnic minorities in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region (XUAR). The Chairs asked the CEOs for a response to questions about their exports to the PRC, including whether they knew that their technology would be used to support surveillance activities of the PRC police and security entities and whether they took steps to ensure that their products were not used for human rights abuses or to compromise U.S. national security. The full text of the letter toIntel Corporation ishereand thefull text of the letter toNVIDIA ishere. f t # e | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://mcgovern.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398649 | McGovern, Markey, Pressley Demand Answers From USDA Following Reports of Food Box Shortages | 2020-12-14 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Jim McGovern | M000312 | mcgovern.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON In light of recent reports from constituents that the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Families Food Box Program is struggling to meet the needs of Massachusetts families,RepresentativeJames P. McGovern (MA-02),Senator Edward J. Markey (D-MA)andRepresentativeAyanna Pressley (MA-07)are leading the Massachusetts delegation in demanding answers from USDA administratorsthat oversee the program, and are requesting a meeting with the USDA to discuss the challenges that food box recipients and distributors are facing in Massachusetts. In addition to McGovern, Markey, and Pressley, the letter was signed by Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Richard E. Neal (MA-01), Stephen F. Lynch (MA-08), Katherine Clark (MA-05), William Keating (MA-09), Joseph P. Kennedy III (MA-04), Seth Moulton (MA-06), and Lori Trahan (MA-03). Authorized by the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, the Farmers to Families Food Box Program purchases and distributes agricultural products to schools, food banks, and families in need. However,recentlyMcGovern, Markey, and Pressley learned that the program has not met the needs of Massachusetts residents. In recent weeks, we have received reports that the Northeast Region's new fourth-round contractor, Whitsons Culinary Group, is now unable to service many of the same Massachusetts schools and food banks that received food boxes in the Program's prior rounds,wrote the Massachusetts lawmakers in their letter.In our conversations with Whitsons, we learned that regional needs not only vastly outweigh its contracted capacity, but also that, as of December 3, 2020, it has a waitlist of 21 organizationsmany of which are previous food box recipients now without a supplier. In Massachusetts, the food-insecurity rate has increased by 53% during the pandemic, with one in seven residents lacking access to enough food for three healthy meals per day, and one in five children living in food-insecure households, according to the Greater Boston Food Bank. The lawmakers also note that … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://pressley.house.gov/media/press-releases/pressley-joins-clark-ma-delegation-calling-explanation-mbta-cuts-commitment | Pressley Joins Clark, MA Delegation in Calling for Explanation of MBTA Cuts, Commitment to Restore Full Services | 2020-12-14 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Ayanna Pressley | P000617 | pressley.house.gov | legacy | Text of Letter (PDF) WASHINGTON Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) today joined Congresswoman Katherine Clark (MA-05) and their colleagues from the Massachusetts Congressional delegation, including Senators Edward Markey (D-MA)and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Representatives Richard Neal (MA-1), James P. McGovern (MA-2), Lori Trahan (MA-03), Joseph P. Kennedy III (MA-04), Seth Moulton (MA-06), Stephen F. Lynch (MA-08), and William Keating (MA-09), in writing to MBTA General Manager Steve Poftak requesting a full explanation for the short-term and long-term cuts that the MBTA approved today. As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, we worry that the proposed cuts will disproportionately impact riders from underserved communities. These riders likely have no other method of transportation and rely on MBTA services and expanded hours of service for their essential travel needs, wrote the lawmakers. Many of these ridersand MBTA employees themselvesare essential workers who have stepped up to help us face this public health crisis. The cuts could also add volume to each trip, further exacerbating public health risks for riders and workers alike. Reduce transit options for riders and employment opportunities for MBTA workers at this time is incongruous with the support and recognition they deserve for the risks taken to continue providing the essential services to the Commonwealth. We consider public transit to be a public good and will continue to fight for federal funding for the Commonwealth's public transportation infrastructure, they continued. As such, we request that the MBTA further evaluate this proposal and provide clear evidence demonstrating the need for this degree of service reduction before moving forward with implementation at this precarious time. In addition to requesting evidence that demonstrates the need for the severity of the proposed service cuts, the Delegation Members expressed their expectation that any service cuts would be fully restored as soon as possible. Earlier this month… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://pressley.house.gov/media/press-releases/pressley-mcgovern-markey-demand-answers-usda-following-reports-food-box | Pressley, McGovern, Markey Demand Answers from USDA Following Reports of Food Box Shortages | 2020-12-14 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Ayanna Pressley | P000617 | pressley.house.gov | legacy | Text of Letter (PDF) WASHINGTON In light of recent reports from constituents that the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Families Food Box Program is struggling to meet the needs of Massachusetts families, Representatives Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), James P. McGovern (MA-02) and Senator Edward J. Markey (D-MA) are leading the Massachusetts delegation in demanding answers from USDA administratorsthat oversee the program, and are requesting a meeting with the USDA to discuss the challenges that food box recipients and distributors are facing in Massachusetts. In addition to Pressley, McGovern, and Markey, the letter was signed by Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Richard E. Neal (MA-01), Stephen F. Lynch (MA-08), Katherine Clark (MA-05), William Keating (MA-09), Joseph P. Kennedy III (MA-04), Seth Moulton (MA-06), and Lori Trahan (MA-03). Authorized by the Families First Coronavirus Response Act, the Farmers to Families Food Box Program purchases and distributes agricultural products to schools, food banks, and families in need. However,recentlyMcGovern, Markey, and Pressley learned that the program has not met the needs of Massachusetts residents. In recent weeks, we have received reports that the Northeast Region's new fourth-round contractor, Whitsons Culinary Group, is now unable to service many of the same Massachusetts schools and food banks that received food boxes in the Program's prior rounds,wrote the Massachusetts lawmakers in their letter.In our conversations with Whitsons, we learned that regional needs not only vastly outweigh its contracted capacity, but also that, as of December 3, 2020, it has a waitlist of 21 organizationsmany of which are previous food box recipients now without a supplier. In Massachusetts, the food-insecurity rate has increased by 53% during the pandemic, with one in seven residents lacking access to enough food for three healthy meals per day, and one in five children living in food-insecure households, according to the Greater Boston Food Bank. The lawmakers also n… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-markey-statement-on-launch-of-ftc-study-into-social-media-platforms-and-video-streaming-services | Senator Markey Statement on Launch of FTC Study into Social Media Platforms and Video Streaming ServicesRead More | 2020-12-14 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | Study will include special attention to how online platforms impact children and teens Washington (December 14, 2020) Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) today issued the following statement after the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced that it is issuing orders to Amazon, ByteDance, Discord, Facebook, Reddit, Snap, Twitter, WhatsApp and YouTube, requiring the companies to provide crucial information about their data practices. Exercising its authority under Section 6(b)of the FTC Act, the Commission will require these companies to answer questions specifically about how their practices affect children and teens' privacy. Social media platforms and video streaming services are daily destinations for young people today,said Senator Markey, a member of the Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee.Unfortunately, parents and policymakers alike are in the dark about how powerful websites and apps are siphoning kids' and teens' personal information, profiling users, and raking in profits while children get hooked on their devices. No comprehensive investigation of these websites would be complete without special attention to children and teens, a uniquely vulnerable population online. I am glad that the FTC heeded my calls to issue these orders, and I thank my bipartisan partners who joined me in advocating for this investigation.In May, Senators Markey, Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), and Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) wrote to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) urging it to use its authority under the FTC Act to launch an investigation into children's data practices in the digital advertising sector and educational technology sector.### | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-markey-and-warren-and-rep-trahan-announce-600000-economic-development-grant-for-the-lawrence-partnership | Senators Markey and Warren, and Rep. Trahan Announce $600,000 Economic Development Grant for the Lawrence PartnershipRead More | 2020-12-14 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | Funding will be used to support the expansion of Revolving Test Kitchen initiative, invest in small, local food-based businesses in Lawrence Washington (December 11, 2020) Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), along with Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Congresswoman Lori Trahan (MA-03), announced that the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) has awarded a federal grant of $600,000 to the Lawrence Partnership, a broad coalition of business and civic leaders. This federal funding will be used to support the expansion of their Revolving Test Kitchen (RTK) initiative, an incubator to invest in small, local food-based businesses in Lawrence, Massachusetts. This expansion will allow for the RTK to increase operations and serve up to a dozen food-based businesses in Lawrence at once. The project was made possible by the regional planning efforts led by the Merrimack Valley Planning Commission. The impact of the coronavirus is hitting Lawrence disproportionately hard, said Senator Markey. This federal funding will help mitigate the impact on businesses by awarding funding, as well as the prospect of further job-creation, enhanced neighborhood resilience, and overall economic development. I am proud to have helped secure the federal funding with my colleagues and Lawrence officials needed to support this vital initiative. This crisis is putting a ton of pressure on small business owners, their families, and employees, said Senator Warren. This federal investment in the expansion of the Revolving Test Kitchen (RTK) initiative will help jumpstart small food-based businesses in Lawrence and help boost the local economy. At a moment when restaurants, caterers, bakers, food trucks, and other food businesses are facing unprecedented challenges because of COVID-19, this funding could not be more important, said Congresswoman Trahan. Combined with contributions from local investors, this federal investment in the Revolving Test Kitchen's proven model will give more small businesses … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-markey-and-warren-urge-phsma-to-rescind-restart-approval-for-the-weymouth-compressor-station-pending-full-safety-analysis | Senators Markey and Warren Urge PHSMA to Rescind Restart Approval for the Weymouth Compressor Station Pending Full Safety AnalysisRead More | 2020-12-14 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | Request comes after PHSMA allowed the compressor station to recommence operations before the causes of recent unplanned natural gas releases were definitively identified and resolved Washington (December 14, 2020) Senators Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) and Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) wrote to the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) opposing its decision to authorize Enbridge, Inc. to restart operations at the Weymouth compressor station after activities were halted following two recent emergency shutdowns. On November 25, 2020, PHMSA issued its approval of Enbridge's Weymouth Station Restart Plan without having reviewed a complete third-party investigation of station safety or the findings of a finished Root Cause Failure Analysis. In the letter, the senators also raised concerns over PHMSA's decision to accede to Enbridge's requests to limit the list of corrective actions the company had to take to address hazardous conditions. Despite the remaining questions regarding the cause of the unplanned shutdowns and uncertainties about the compressor station's safety, PHMSA allowed the Weymouth compressor station to recommence operations on December 4, 2020. PHMSA should ensure that all necessary corrective actions are identified and taken before the facility is permitted to restart, not after the compressor station yet again exposes the community to danger, write the Senators in their letter to PHMSA. Before PHMSA makes any future decisions about operations at the station, we urge you to revoke your approval of the restart plan, allow for the completion of a Root Cause Failure Analysis, and review the results of a thorough investigation into the causes of the two unplanned emergency shutdowns. A copy of the letter can be foundHERE. Today's letter follow a series of actions taken by Senators Markey and Warren to urge responsible entities to shut down the Weymouth compressor station. On November 9, 2020, Senators Markey and Warren wrote to … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://neal.house.gov/2020/12/12/news-documentsingle-aspx-documentid-1955/ | Congressional Committee Leaders Announce Surprise Billing Agreement | 2020-12-12 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Richard E. Neal | N000015 | neal.house.gov | neal | https://neal.house.gov/category/press-releases/ | scraper | Washington, DC | Legislation Will Protect Patients from Surprise Medical Bills and Establish Fair Framework to Resolve Disputes Between Providers and Insurers Today, key House and Senate Committee leaders announced a bipartisan agreement on legislation to protect patients from surprise medical bills and establish a fair framework to resolve payment disputes between health care providers and health insurance companies. The deal was agreed to by House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Richard E. Neal (D-MA) and Ranking Member Kevin Brady (R-TX), House Energy and Commerce Committee Chairman Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ) and Ranking Member Greg Walden (R-OR), House Education and Labor Committee Chairman Robert C. “Bobby” Scott (D-VA) and Ranking Member Virginia Foxx (R-NC), and Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee Chairman Lamar Alexander (R-TN) and Ranking Member Patty Murray (D-WA). “We have reached a bipartisan, bicameral deal in principle to protect patients from surprise medical bills and promote fairness in payment disputes between insurers and providers, without increasing premiums for patients or interfering with strong, state-level solutions already on the books,” the bipartisan, bicameral Committee leaders said. “Under this agreement, the days of patients receiving devastating surprise out-of-network medical bills will be over. Patients should not be penalized with these outrageous bills simply because they were rushed to an out-of-network hospital or unknowingly treated by an out-of-network provider at an in-network facility. This is a win for patients and their families that will improve America’s health care system. “We are pleased to share this language for stakeholder feedback and look forward to continuing to work together to finalize and attach this important new patient protection to the end-of-year funding package. We’re hopeful this legislation will be signed into law in the coming days so we can give Americans confidence they will no longer receive financially ruinous su… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z |
| https://katherineclark.house.gov/press-releases?ID=F5874269-8FE2-4FC9-8261-9832C70138E7 | Clark, Merkley, Lowenthal Urge President-Elect Biden to Implement Comprehensive Approach to Tackle Plastic Crisis | 2020-12-11 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Katherine M. Clark | C001101 | katherineclark.house.gov | clark | https://katherineclark.house.gov/press-releases | scraper | 0 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | |
| https://moulton.house.gov/news/press-releases/moulton-va-secretary-wilkie-must-resign | Moulton - “VA Secretary Wilkie must resign” | 2020-12-11 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Seth Moulton | M001196 | moulton.house.gov | moulton | https://moulton.house.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | SALEM, Mass. — Representative Seth Moulton released the following statement regarding the findings by the Department of Veterans Affairs Inspector General that VA Secretary Robert Wilkie mishandled reports of sexual assault at an agency hospital. “Late yesterday, the VA Inspector General released a scathing report that showed VA Secretary Robert Wilkie sought to discredit a Navy veteran who reported she was assaulted at a VA facility in Washington, DC by a contractor who worked there. She said a man working at the VA “bumped his entire body against mine and told me I looked like I needed a smile and a good time.” The IG’s report makes clear the most powerful people at the VA chose to protect a creep rather than protect a veteran. Wilkie dismissed the veteran’s concerns as politically motivated because the veteran coincidentally is leading efforts to reform the experience women have at the VA, and the VA's senior officials attempted to undermine her credibility. For example, Wilkie's spokesman tried to plant a bad story about the veteran in The New York Times, a senior VA official asked the VA Police to run a background check on the veteran before they ran one on the man she accused of assaulting her, and Secretary Wilkie untruthfully said publicly that the veteran’s claims were unsubstantiated. In addition to issuing his strong rebuke yesterday, the IG referred some of the incidents he found to the Department of Justice for criminal prosecution. All of this aligns with the track record of an administration led by a president who brags about assaulting women to anyone who will listen, and it matches the experience women across the country report having at the VA. Leaders take accountability. Secretary Wilkie, his spokesman, and the staff named by the IG in this report must resign.” In the IG report, Inspector General Michael Missal found Secretary Wilkie sought to dismiss Navy Veteran Andrea Goldstein’s report of sexual assault at the Washington DC VA Medical Center by attempting to undermine her credibilit… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z |
| https://moulton.house.gov/press-releases/moulton_-va-secretary-wilkie-must-resign | Moulton - “VA Secretary Wilkie must resign” | 2020-12-11 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Seth Moulton | M001196 | moulton.house.gov | legacy | December 11, 2020 Moulton - VA Secretary Wilkie must resign SALEM, Mass.Representative Seth Moultonreleased the following statementregarding the findingsby the Department of Veterans Affairs Inspector General thatVA Secretary Robert Wilkiemishandled reports of sexual assault at an agency hospital. Late yesterday, the VA Inspector General released a scathing report that showed VA Secretary Robert Wilkie sought to discredit a Navy veteran who reported she was assaulted at a VA facility in Washington, DC by a contractor who worked there. She said a man working at the VAbumped his entire body against mine and told me I looked like I needed a smile and a good time. The IG's report makes clear the most powerful people at the VA chose to protect a creep rather than protect a veteran. Wilkie dismissed the veteran's concerns as politically motivated because the veteran coincidentally is leading efforts to reform the experience women have at the VA, and the VA's senior officials attempted to undermine her credibility. For example, Wilkie's spokesman tried to plant a bad story about the veteran in The New York Times, a senior VA official asked the VA Police to run a background check on the veteran before they ran one on the man she accused of assaulting her, and Secretary Wilkie untruthfully said publicly that the veteran's claims were unsubstantiated. In addition to issuing his strong rebuke yesterday, the IG referred some of the incidents he found to the Department of Justice for criminal prosecution. All of this aligns with the track record of an administration led by a president who brags about assaulting women to anyone who will listen, and it matches the experience women across the country report having at the VA. Leaders take accountability. Secretary Wilkie, his spokesman, and the staff named by the IG in this report must resign. In the IGreport,Inspector General Michael Missalfound Secretary Wilkie sought to dismiss Navy Veteran Andrea Goldstein's report of sexual assault at the Washington DC VA … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://neal.house.gov/2020/12/11/news-documentsingle-aspx-documentid-1639/ | Chairman Neal Opening Statement at Virtual Listening Session with Workers Affected by the COVID-19 Crisis | 2020-12-11 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Richard E. Neal | N000015 | neal.house.gov | neal | https://neal.house.gov/category/press-releases/ | scraper | Washington, DC (As Prepared for Delivery) Good afternoon, thank you to everyone for tuning in. Today, we are over nine months into the COVID-19 pandemic that has inflicted unthinkable losses on our country. Over 280,000 Americans have died from the virus and countless are suffering. Scores are sick or have lost loved ones. Our frontline health care workers are overwhelmed and overworked as they continue to risk their health and that of their loved ones to care for those who are sick. Millions of Americans are unable to work. Families are struggling to put food on the table and are behind on rent payments. Folks desperately need solutions. Ways and Means Democrats convened this listening session because we know these challenges aren’t new, but it’s more important than ever that we take action. The COVID-19 pandemic has worsened the hardships workers face every day. We’ve all heard from constituents who are enduring nightmare after nightmare. Whether it be that they have been denied unemployment insurance or they are risking their own health to continue showing up for a job with inadequate personal protective equipment, they are being pushed to their limits. Lisa is a constituent of mine who lives in Springfield, Massachusetts and shared her story with my office. She was a U.S. Postal Service employee until this past May, when she left her job to help her daughter who was struggling with online learning at home. After taxes, her weekly unemployment benefit is a mere $80, so she picked up part time work at Dunkin Donuts to try to make ends meet as the crisis continues. Joining us today for this session is another constituent of mine, James, who is a teacher in Springfield and will be sharing his experience grappling with the pandemic. James, thank you for taking the time to speak with us. An economic recovery would provide some relief to people like Lisa and James. We can prevent a complete economic crash by providing unemployment benefits, stimulus checks, and other temporary measures that prop up our econom… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z |
| https://pressley.house.gov/media/press-releases/rep-pressley-s-statement-gov-baker-s-amendments-police-reform-bill | Rep. Pressley’s Statement on Gov. Baker’s Amendments to Police Reform Bill | 2020-12-11 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Ayanna Pressley | P000617 | pressley.house.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON Today, Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (MA-07) issued the following statement on Governor's proposed amendments to the Massachusetts police reform legislation: The police reform legislation passed by my colleagues in the Massachusetts Legislature is a step forward in the fight for justice in the Commonwealth. This bill is already a compromise and should serve as the floor that we will build upon going forward. It includes essential long-overdue common-sense proposals that would save lives. By refusing to sign the legislation, sending it back to the Legislature and demanding amendments that will water down important aspects of the bill, Governor Baker is once again demonstrating his disregard for the communities most impacted by our broken status quo system of injustice. The Governor's proposed amendments to the legislationincluding striking the ban on fundamentally flawed and discriminatory facial recognition technology and underminingthe Peace Officer Standards and Training Commissionmust be rejected outright by the legislature. With the public health crisis of police brutality continuing to ravage Black and brown communities in the Commonwealth and all across the country, we must act with urgency before more lives are needlessly lost. I urge my colleagues in the Legislature to reject any and all amendments that will weaken the bill and implore the Governor to sign it into law without delay. | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://trahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1890 | Rep. Trahan, Senators Markey and Warren Announce $600,000 Economic Development Grant for the Lawrence Partnership | 2020-12-11 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Lori Trahan | T000482 | trahan.house.gov | legacy | Washington (December 11, 2020) Congresswoman Lori Trahan (MA-03) along with Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), and Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), announced that the U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) has awarded a federal grant of $600,000 to the Lawrence Partnership, a broad coalition of business and civic leaders. This federal funding will be used to support the expansion of their Revolving Test Kitchen (RTK) initiative, an incubator to invest in small, local food-based businesses in Lawrence, Massachusetts. This expansion will allow for the RTK to increase operations and serve up to a dozen food-based businesses in Lawrence at once. The project was made possible by the regional planning efforts led by the Merrimack Valley Planning Commission. At a moment when restaurants, caterers, bakers, food trucks, and other food businesses are facing unprecedented challenges because of COVID-19, this funding could not be more important, said Congresswoman Trahan. Combined with contributions from local investors, this federal investment in the Revolving Test Kitchen's proven model will give more small businesses access to vital funding while also creating 100 new jobs in the process. I'm proud to have partnered with Senator Markey to support the awarding of this grant, and I look forward to our continued work with Mayor Rivera, the Regional Planning Commission, and the Lawrence Partnership to deliver for the city. The impact of the coronavirus is hitting Lawrence disproportionately hard, said Senator Markey. This federal funding will help mitigate the impact on businesses by awarding funding, as well as the prospect of further job-creation, enhanced neighborhood resilience, and overall economic development. I am proud to have helped secure the federal funding with my colleagues and Lawrence officials needed to support this vital initiative. This crisis is putting a ton of pressure on small business owners, their families, and employees, said Senator Warren. This federal investment in the expans… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://moulton.house.gov/news/press-releases/rep-moultons-young-fishermens-development-act-passes-house | Rep. Moulton’s Young Fishermen's Development Act Passes House | 2020-12-10 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Seth Moulton | M001196 | moulton.house.gov | moulton | https://moulton.house.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – Today, the House of Representatives passed Congressman Seth Moulton’s Young Fishermen's Development Act, a bill Moulton (D-MA) introduced with Rep. Don Young (R-AK) in 2017 and reintroduced with Rep. Young and Rep Jared Golden (D-ME) last year. The bill creates a national grant program to support the training and education of the nation’s next generation of commercial fishermen. “Commercial fishing is part of Gloucester's and New England’s identity and economy, but the legacy will end if we don’t make it easier for the next generation to get started,” Rep. Moulton said. “These grants will help the industry expand and evolve. Every fisherman and lobsterman I’ve ever met wants to keep the fish stock and our oceans healthy. I’m proud that this money will give new opportunities to young people and also help teach fishermen how to build new gear and fish in new ways that protect our oceans. Congress’s investment will pay off in new technology that works and has buy-in from the people using it to make a living.” In 2017, Moulton announced the bill in Gloucester during an event at Fisherman's Wharf with the President of the Gloucester Fishermen’s Wives Association Angela Sanfilippo, Executive Administrator of the Gloucester Fishing Community Fund and NE Seafood Coalition Chair of Government Affairs Vito Giacalone, and his son, Chris Giacalone, the owner of Gloucester Fisherman’s Wharf. Gloucester Mayor Sefatia Romeo Theken, State Representative Ann-Margaret Ferrante, and State Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr joined in support. The Senate has passed its own version of the bill and is expected to quickly reconcile that version with the House’s version so that the bill can be signed into law. Once that happens, The Young Fishermen’s Development Act will authorize grants of up to $200,000 through NOAA’s Sea Grant Program to support new and established local and regional training, education, outreach, and technical assistance initiatives for young fishermen. The grants can be used to fund courses and works… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z |
| https://moulton.house.gov/press-releases/rep-moultons-young-fishermens-development-act-passes-house | Rep. Moulton’s Young Fishermen's Development Act Passes House | 2020-12-10 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Seth Moulton | M001196 | moulton.house.gov | legacy | December 10, 2020 Rep. Moulton's Young Fishermen's Development Act Passes House WASHINGTON Today, the House of Representatives passedCongressman Seth Moulton'sYoung Fishermen's Development Act, a bill Moulton (D-MA) introduced withRep. Don Young (R-AK)in 2017 and reintroduced with Rep. Young andRep Jared Golden (D-ME)last year. The bill creates a national grant program to support the training and education of the nation's next generation of commercial fishermen. Commercial fishing is part of Gloucester's and New England's identity and economy, but the legacy will end if we don't make it easier for the next generation to get started,Rep. Moulton said.These grants will help the industry expand and evolve. Every fisherman and lobsterman I've ever met wants to keep the fish stock and our oceans healthy. I'm proud that this money will give new opportunities to young people and also help teach fishermen how to build new gear and fish in new ways that protect our oceans. Congress's investment will pay off in new technology that works and has buy-in from the people using it to make a living. In 2017, Moulton announced the bill in Gloucester duringan eventat Fisherman's Wharf with the President of the Gloucester Fishermen's Wives Association Angela Sanfilippo, Executive Administrator of the Gloucester Fishing Community Fund and NE Seafood Coalition Chair of Government Affairs Vito Giacalone, and his son, Chris Giacalone, the owner of Gloucester Fisherman's Wharf. Gloucester Mayor Sefatia Romeo Theken, State Representative Ann-Margaret Ferrante, and State Senate Minority Leader Bruce Tarr joined in support. The Senate has passed its own version of the bill and is expected to quickly reconcile that version with the House's version so that the bill can be signed into law. Once that happens,The Young Fishermen's Development Actwill authorize grants of up to $200,000 through NOAA's Sea Grant Program to support new and established local and regional training, education, outreach, and technical assistance initiati… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://moulton.house.gov/news/press-releases/moulton-boyle-and-delbene-introduce-american-high-speed-rail-act | Moulton, Boyle and DelBene Introduce the American High-Speed Rail Act | 2020-12-09 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Seth Moulton | M001196 | moulton.house.gov | moulton | https://moulton.house.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON– Today, Representative Seth Moulton (MA-06) introduced the American High-Speed Rail Act, which would invest $205 billion federal dollars into high-speed rail, create at least 2.6 million direct American jobs over five years, and provide Americans with a new travel option that’s safer than driving, cleaner than flying and never delayed by weather. Representatives Brendan Boyle (PA-02) and Suzan DelBene (WA-01) joined Moulton as original sponsors of the bill. “High-speed rail is faster, cleaner, safer and better for our economy. It will connect people to more jobs in new places, give Americans freedom and choice in how they travel, and put us on par with the rest of the world. This bill is the plan that will get us there,” Moulton said. “We spend vast amounts of money subsidizing planes, which are delayed by weather, and roads, which are crumbling nationwide. We have the chance coming out of this pandemic to think big and think differently. Let’s not waste the opportunity.” Rep. Brendan Boyle said: “The American High-Speed Rail Act is the right plan at the right time for the American transportation system. As we prepare to embark on the era of Build Back Better, it has never been more crucial to address our nation’s infrastructure in a way that supports and strengthens our commitment to improving both the economy and the environment. High-speed rail must be a significant part of our infrastructure plans moving forward as we look to bring in the next generation of safe, efficient rail travel for American business and the American people.” Rep. Suzan DelBene said: “Building a national high-speed rail system would not only reinvigorate the American transportation system but also support our local economy at a critical time. As we recover from dual public health and economic crises, an infrastructure project of this size would create millions of new jobs while investing in cutting-edge, green technology and building a path to new technology and innovation hubs across the country. I am excited to introduce… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z |
| https://moulton.house.gov/press-releases/moulton-boyle-and-delbene-introduce-the-american-high-speed-rail-act | Moulton, Boyle and DelBene Introduce the American High-Speed Rail Act | 2020-12-09 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Seth Moulton | M001196 | moulton.house.gov | legacy | December 09, 2020 Moulton, Boyle and DelBene Introduce the American High-Speed Rail Act The bill, a blueprint for national high-speed rail, received the endorsements of national transportation advocates and leaders. WASHINGTON Today, Representative Seth Moulton (MA-06) introduced the American High-Speed Rail Act, which would invest $205 billion federal dollars into high-speed rail, create at least 2.6 million direct American jobs over five years, and provide Americans with a new travel option that's safer than driving, cleaner than flying and never delayed by weather. Representatives Brendan Boyle (PA-02) and Suzan DelBene (WA-01) joined Moulton as original sponsors of the bill. High-speed rail is faster, cleaner, safer and better for our economy. It will connect people to more jobs in new places, give Americans freedom and choice in how they travel, and put us on par with the rest of the world. This bill is the plan that will get us there, Moulton said. We spend vast amounts of money subsidizing planes, which are delayed by weather, and roads, which are crumbling nationwide. We have the chance coming out of this pandemic to think big and think differently. Let's not waste the opportunity. Rep. Brendan Boyle said: The American High-Speed Rail Act is the right plan at the right time for the American transportation system. As we prepare to embark on the era of Build Back Better, it has never been more crucial to address our nation's infrastructure in a way that supports and strengthens our commitment to improving both the economy and the environment. High-speed rail must be a significant part of our infrastructure plans moving forward as we look to bring in the next generation of safe, efficient rail travel for American business and the American people. Rep. Suzan DelBene said: Building a national high-speed rail system would not only reinvigorate the American transportation system but also support our local economy at a critical time. As we recover from dual public health and economic cris… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-markey-and-rep-eshoo-statement-on-supreme-court-oral-arguments-about-robocalls | Senator Markey and Rep. Eshoo Statement on Supreme Court Oral Arguments about RobocallsRead More | 2020-12-09 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | Eshoo and Markey led 19 members of Congress in amicus brief in robocall case argued before Supreme Court today Washington (December 8, 2020) Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), the House author of the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) and Congresswoman Anna G. Eshoo (D-Calif.) released the following statement after listening to oral arguments before the United States Supreme Court in Facebook, Inc. v. Duguid. Markey and Eshoo led 19 members of the Senate and House of Representatives in filing an amicus brief urging the Court to uphold the Ninth Circuit's decision which found that the Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA) protects consumers from robocalls regardless of whether the robocaller dials telephone numbers stored in a list or uses a system that dials arbitrary numbers produced by a random or sequential number generator. Today, the Justices heard loud and clear that the TCPA remains absolutely essential. By restricting robocalls to mobile phones, the TCPA prevents countless unwanted robocalls every minute, hour, day, month and year from intruding on our privacy, scamming our wallets, and overwhelming our confidence in the nation's telephone networks, said Senator Markey and Rep. Eshoo. We are confident that the Court will find that narrowly interpreting the definition of automatic telephone dialing system to exclude certain dialing systems ignores the intent of Congress when the law was enacted with bipartisan support and hurts Americans, as we stated in our amicus brief. The Court must reject efforts to reverse decades of precedent that would enable telemarketers and scammers to initiate billions of automated calls to Americans who have a united distain for intrusive robocalls. The plaintiffs in Facebook, Inc. argue that TCPA's definition of automatic telephone dialing system (ATDS) excludes systems that dial pre-stored numbers. The Ninth Circuit rejected this argument. In their amicus brief, the lawmakers led by Senator Markey and Rep. Eshoo urged the Supreme Court… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-markey-and-warren-urge-immediate-action-to-protect-soldiers-after-release-of-independent-report-on-fort-hood | Senators Markey and Warren Urge Immediate Action to Protect Soldiers after Release of Independent Report on Fort HoodRead More | 2020-12-09 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | Senators called for an independent investigation into Ft. Hood after the disappearance and death of Brockton native Elder Fernandes, who died near the base in August Washington (December 8, 2020) Senators Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) and Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement upon the release of the report of the Fort Hood Independent Review Committee, which was tasked with investigating the command culture and climate at Fort Hood Army Base, near Killeen, Texas. The report's executive summary reveals pervasive deficiencies in the sexual harassment and assault reporting structure, a lack of clearly outlined procedures for responding to reports of missing soldiers, and a command culture permissive of sexual harassment and sexual assault, among other problems. As a result of the report's findings, the Army announced today they are firing or suspending 14 Fort Hood commanders and other leaders. The pervasive problems found by the independent investigation into Fort Hood demonstrate a gross disregard by Army leadership and the Command at Fort Hood for the safety and well-being of America's soldiers, said Senators Markey and Warren. It should not have taken the deaths of dozens of men and women of our armed forces serving at Fort Hood to trigger an investigation. While we appreciate the findings of the independent investigation, it's been clear that the Army's leadership must be held accountable for the harm caused by allowing a climate of harassment, fear, and retaliation to take hold for so long. The Army must make immediately clear what steps it will be taking to address the problems outlined in the report. Top Army leadership should testify before the Senate as soon as possible, and the incoming Biden administration must continue to ensure that the problems caused by the lack of leadership and lack of care for the soldiers serving at Fort Hood are fully resolved. When a young person puts on the Army uniform it beco… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://katherineclark.house.gov/press-releases?ID=2B02EB61-0EE2-4B44-A221-4B0F048A7B87 | Health Appropriations Subcommittee Examine Hyde Amendment’s Impact on Women’s Rights and Economic Security | 2020-12-08 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Katherine M. Clark | C001101 | katherineclark.house.gov | clark | https://katherineclark.house.gov/press-releases | scraper | 0 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | |
| https://lynch.house.gov/2020/12/chairman-lynch-and-chairwoman-maloney-issue-statements-on-fort-hood-independent-review-committee-report | Chairman Lynch And Chairwoman Maloney Issue Statements On Fort Hood Independent Review Committee Report | 2020-12-08 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Stephen F. Lynch | L000562 | lynch.house.gov | lynch | https://lynch.house.gov/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. —Today, U.S. Representative Stephen F. Lynch, Chairman of the Subcommittee on National Security, and U.S. Representative Carolyn B. Maloney, Chairwoman of the Committee on Oversight and Reform, issued the following statements after the Fort Hood Independent Review Committee released its final report, which found that the Army’s implementation of the Sexual Harassment/Assault Response and Prevention (SHARP) Program at Fort Hood “was ineffective, to the extent that there was a permissive environment for sexual assault and sexual harassment”: “The release of the Fort Hood Independent Review Committee’s final report is a significant step in rectifying the toxic command climate at Fort Hood, which has tragically contributed to the deaths of too many of our sons and daughters in uniform in recent years,” Chairman Lynch said. “Rampant crime, a lack of accountability, and command apathy have all led to Fort Hood’s reputation as a post where the quality of life and the safety of our soldiers are persistently at risk. As Chairman of the Subcommittee on National Security, we will continue to investigate the totality of circumstances that may have contributed to the disappearances and deaths of servicemembers like Specialist Vanessa Guillen and Sergeant Elder Fernandes to ensure that Army leaders restore a climate at Fort Hood that respects, values, and protects the men and women under their command.” “While I am glad that today’s report was finally released, I regret that it took the anguish of so many families and congressional pressure to spur the Army into action,” Chairwoman Maloney said. “Sexual assault and harassment have no place in the United States military, but I am encouraged that the Army appears to be moving expeditiously to address the Independent Review Committee’s findings and implement its recommendations. I would like to thank the members of the Independent Review Committee for their work and contributions to ensure the safety and well-being of all those who serve in the United States Ar… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z |
| https://lynch.house.gov/press-releases?ID=0B92F887-E71C-4FEB-ADD1-4CF617C85CFF | Chairman Lynch And Chairwoman Maloney Issue Statements On Fort Hood Independent Review Committee Report | 2020-12-08 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Stephen Lynch | L000562 | lynch.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. —Today, U.S. Representative Stephen F. Lynch, Chairman of the Subcommittee on National Security, and U.S. Representative Carolyn B. Maloney, Chairwoman of the Committee on Oversight and Reform, issued the following statements after the Fort Hood Independent Review Committee released its final report, which found that the Army’s implementation of the Sexual Harassment/Assault Response and Prevention (SHARP) Program at Fort Hood “was ineffective, to the extent that there was a permissive environment for sexual assault and sexual harassment”: “The release of the Fort Hood Independent Review Committee’s final report is a significant step in rectifying the toxic command climate at Fort Hood, which has tragically contributed to the deaths of too many of our sons and daughters in uniform in recent years,” Chairman Lynch said. “Rampant crime, a lack of accountability, and command apathy have all led to Fort Hood’s reputation as a post where the quality of life and the safety of our soldiers are persistently at risk. As Chairman of the Subcommittee on National Security, we will continue to investigate the totality of circumstances that may have contributed to the disappearances and deaths of servicemembers like Specialist Vanessa Guillen and Sergeant Elder Fernandes to ensure that Army leaders restore a climate at Fort Hood that respects, values, and protects the men and women under their command.” “While I am glad that today’s report was finally released, I regret that it took the anguish of so many families and congressional pressure to spur the Army into action,” Chairwoman Maloney said. “Sexual assault and harassment have no place in the United States military, but I am encouraged that the Army appears to be moving expeditiously to address the Independent Review Committee’s findings and implement its recommendations. I would like to thank the members of the Independent Review Committee for their work and contributions to ensure the safety and well-being of all those who serve in the United States Ar… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z | ||
| https://moulton.house.gov/news/press-releases/moultons-als-disability-insurance-access-act-passes-house | Moulton’s ALS Disability Insurance Access Act Passes House | 2020-12-08 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Seth Moulton | M001196 | moulton.house.gov | moulton | https://moulton.house.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | WASHINGTON – Today, the United States House of Representatives overwhelmingly passed the ALS Disability Insurance Access Act, a bill introduced by Representatives Seth Moulton (D-MA) and Peter King (R-NY). It has already passed the Senate and heads next to the White House where the president is expected to sign it into law. When that happens, it will eliminate the five-month waiting period that currently slows down ALS patients from receiving Social Security Disability Insurance benefits, a financial lifeline that helps them manage a debilitating disease. “Today is a win for my friend Pete Frates and every brave American who refuses to be silenced by ALS,” Moulton said. “Nobody with ALS should have to wait for benefits that will help prolong their lives and help their families focus on what matters. It has taken a long time to get this bill across the finish line, but I’m so proud that we got this done.” In 2017, Moulton and Frates announced the bill’s introduction together in Frates’ living room with members of the ALS Association, ALS patients, advocates and health care providers. In February of 2019, Rep. Moulton, along with Congressman Peter King (R-NY), re-introduced H.R. 1407 to the House of Representatives. U.S. Senators Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) and Tom Cotton (R-AR) introduced a companion bill in the Senate which passed last week. The House bill’s passage today is in large part because of the advocacy of the ALS Association and I AM ALS, which are comprised of ALS patients like Frates, families affected by ALS and the people who care for ALS patients Calaneet Balas, President and CEO of The ALS Association said:"We commend the House of Representatives and the Senate for passing the ALS Disability Insurance Access Act. We urge President Trump to sign the bill immediately, which will waive the arbitrary five-month wait for Social Security Disability benefits for people living with ALS. The bill will provide important support to people living with ALS and their families who face a devastating disease w… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z |
| https://moulton.house.gov/press-releases/moultons-als-disability-insurance-access-act-passes-house | Moulton’s ALS Disability Insurance Access Act Passes House | 2020-12-08 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Seth Moulton | M001196 | moulton.house.gov | legacy | December 08, 2020 Moulton's ALS Disability Insurance Access Act Passes House The bill will help ALS patients access Social Security Disability Insurance without a waiting period Legislation has already cleared the Senate, heads to White House next WASHINGTON Today, the United States House of Representatives overwhelmingly passed theALS Disability Insurance Access Act, a bill introduced byRepresentatives Seth Moulton (D-MA) and Peter King (R-NY).It has already passed the Senate and heads next to the White House where the president is expected to sign it into law. When that happens, it will eliminate the five-month waiting period that currently slows down ALS patients from receiving Social Security Disability Insurance benefits, a financial lifeline that helps them manage a debilitating disease. Today is a win for my friend Pete Frates and every brave American who refuses to be silenced by ALS, Moulton said. Nobody with ALS should have to wait for benefits that will help prolong their lives and help their families focus on what matters. It has taken a long time to get this bill across the finish line, but I'm so proud that we got this done. In 2017, Moulton and Frates announced the bill's introduction together in Frates'living roomwith members of the ALS Association, ALS patients, advocates and health care providers. In February of 2019, Rep. Moulton, along with Congressman Peter King (R-NY), re-introduced H.R. 1407 to the House of Representatives. U.S.Senators Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) and Tom Cotton (R-AR)introduced a companion bill in the Senate whichpassed last week. The House bill's passage today is in large part because of the advocacy ofthe ALS AssociationandI AM ALS, which are comprised of ALS patients like Frates, families affected by ALS and the people who care for ALS patients Calaneet Balas, President and CEO of The ALS Association said:"We commend the House of Representatives and the Senate for passing the ALS Disability Insurance Access Act. We urge President Trump to sign… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://trahan.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=1884 | House Passes FY21 NDAA Conference Report | 2020-12-08 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Lori Trahan | T000482 | trahan.house.gov | trahan | https://trahan.house.gov/news/documentquery.aspx?DocumentTypeID=27 | scraper | WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congresswoman Lori Trahan (MA-03), a member of the House Armed Services Committee and National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) Conference Committee conferee, voted along with a veto-proof majority of members in the House of Representatives to pass the NDAA Conference Report for Fiscal Year (FY) 2021. “For the past 59 years, Congress and Presidents of both parties have reached a bipartisan compromise that delivers for our servicemembers and their loved ones. This Conference Report is evidence that Congress is still capable of upholding our end of that bargain. I’m proud that this final bill includes a number of key provisions that deliver for our servicemembers and military families, who continue to sacrifice each day to keep us safe. These bipartisan proposals, many of which I was proud to author, are long overdue and simply cannot be delayed by an unnecessary and petty veto by the President,” said Congresswoman Trahan. As a Conference Committee member, Trahan secured inclusion of a number of proposals that she authored in coordination with national, state, and local organizations to keep servicemembers safe, support research in the Third District, and strengthen the United States’ ability to respond to foreign interference. To help combat the alarming rise in servicemembers dying by suicide, Trahan successfully included the Comprehensive Review of Military Suicide Act, her legislation developed in consultation with the American Psychiatric Association (APA) to require the Secretary of Defense to establish a multidisciplinary review board for obtaining necessary data to improve the military’s ability to prevent future servicemember suicides, in the final version of the bill. “The American Psychiatric Association is pleased to see that Congress included much needed provisions in the National Defense Authorization Act to help us better understand and prevent servicemember and veteran suicide,” said APA President Jeffrey Geller, M.D., M.P.H. “Especially in the pandemic, these are essenti… | 1 | 2026-04-06T14:36:19Z | 2026-04-06T15:53:25Z |
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/sanders-gillibrand-warren-merkley-markey-and-wyden-urge-colleagues-to-defend-working-class-in-covid-19-relief-proposal | Sanders, Gillibrand, Warren, Merkley, Markey and Wyden Urge Colleagues to Defend Working Class in COVID-19 Relief ProposalRead More | 2020-12-08 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | WASHINGTON, December 8 Sens. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.),Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.),Ed Markey (D-Mass.) and Ron Wyden (D-Ore.)urged Senate Democrats today to recognize the enormity of the economic and public-health crisis posed by COVID-19 and join them in demanding that any new COVID-19 relief proposal includes a $1,200 direct payment to adults and $500 to their children, while rejecting provisions to give a liability shield to corporations who threaten the health and safety of workers and customers. In a letter to their colleagues, the Senators note that COVID-19 is infecting nearly 200,000 Americans and killing 2,000 Americans daily, and argue that a bipartisan proposal under negotiation does not go anywhere near far enough, as America experiences the worst economic crisis since the Great Depression. Only $348 billion in new money is currently allocated in that proposal, the Senators point out, even though the Trump Administration and a bipartisan coalition in the House supported over $1.8 trillion in COVID-19 relief that also included another $1,200 direct payment. It would be unacceptable to take a major step backwards from those previous efforts by passing legislation that only included $348 billion in new money, the Senators wrote to their Democratic colleagues. The lawmakers further expressed their opposition to a get-out-of-jail free card to companies that put the lives of their workers and customers at risk currently under consideration in a bipartisan COVID-19 relief measure, and cited concerns from labor groups that granting immunity would make the country less safe at the exact moment when the COVID-19 pandemic is entering a new, dangerous phase. The letter's signatories also registered their agreement with President-elect Biden that a $1,200 direct payment should be included in this proposal, as over half of American workers live paycheck to paycheck and one in four are either unemployed or make less than $20,000 a … | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://moulton.house.gov/news/press-releases/moulton-clyburn-introduce-legislation-provide-black-wwii-vets-full-gi-bill | Moulton, Clyburn Introduce Legislation To Provide Black WWII Vets Full GI Bill Benefits | 2020-12-07 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Seth Moulton | M001196 | moulton.house.gov | moulton | https://moulton.house.gov/news/press-releases | scraper | As we mark the 79th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor which drew our country into World War II, U.S. Congressman Seth Moulton (MA-06) and House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn (SC-06) today introduced legislation to repair the economic harms experienced by Black World War II veterans and their families as a result of denied access to the full range of GI Bill benefits. The Sgt. Isaac Woodard, Jr. and Sgt. Joseph H. Maddox GI Bill Repair Act of 2020 is named in honor of two World War II veterans who exemplify the indignities faced by African American GI’s after service to their country. “We live in the greatest country on Earth, not because it’s perfect, but because generations of American heroes have fought to make it better,” said Rep. Moulton. “The GI Bill was designed to thank veterans of The Greatest Generation, who saved the world for democracy in World War II, with the opportunity to realize the American Dream back home. But racism systematically robbed Black veterans and their families of that opportunity by denying them GI Bill benefits. Now, our generation of Americans can right that wrong and finally repay that debt.” “African American soldiers served valiantly during World War II only to be denied the welcome home salutes and benefits they richly deserved,” said Whip Clyburn. “I’m proud to partner with my colleague, Seth Moulton, to introduce the Sgt. Isaac Woodard, Jr. and Sgt. Joseph H. Maddox GI Bill Repair Act of 2020, to honor two of our hometown heroes and ensure Black veterans of World War II and their families receive some of the housing and educational benefits they were denied. These benefits are only the baseline for what these American heroes are owed for their noble service to this nation and the subsequent indignities they were forced to endure upon their return. I call on my colleagues in the House and Senate to pass this critical legislation without delay.” Sgt. Isaac Woodard, Jr. Sgt. Isaac Woodard, Jr. was traveling home by bus to Winnsboro, South Carolina, still wearing hi… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z |
| https://moulton.house.gov/press-releases/moulton-clyburn-introduce-legislation-to-provide-black-wwii-vets-full-gi-bill-benefits | Moulton, Clyburn Introduce Legislation To Provide Black WWII Vets Full GI Bill Benefits | 2020-12-07 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Seth Moulton | M001196 | moulton.house.gov | legacy | December 07, 2020 Moulton, Clyburn Introduce Legislation To Provide Black WWII Vets Full GI Bill Benefits As we mark the 79thanniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor which drew our country into World War II, U.S. Congressman Seth Moulton (MA-06) and House Majority Whip James E. Clyburn (SC-06) today introduced legislation to repair the economic harms experienced by Black World War II veterans and their families as a result of denied access to the full range of GI Bill benefits. The Sgt. Isaac Woodard, Jr. and Sgt. Joseph H. Maddox GI Bill Repair Act of 2020 is named in honor of two World War II veterans who exemplify the indignities faced by African American GI's after service to their country. We live in the greatest country on Earth, not because it's perfect, but because generations of American heroes have fought to make it better,said Rep. Moulton.The GI Bill was designed to thank veterans of The Greatest Generation, who saved the world for democracy in World War II, with the opportunity to realize the American Dream back home. But racism systematically robbed Black veterans and their families of that opportunity by denying them GI Bill benefits. Now, our generation of Americans can right that wrong and finally repay that debt. African American soldiers served valiantly during World War II only to be denied the welcome home salutes and benefits they richly deserved,saidWhip Clyburn.I'm proud to partner with my colleague, Seth Moulton, to introduce the Sgt. Isaac Woodard, Jr. and Sgt. Joseph H. Maddox GI Bill Repair Act of 2020, to honor two of our hometown heroes and ensure Black veterans of World War II and their families receive some of the housing and educational benefits they were denied. These benefits are only the baseline for what these American heroes are owed for their noble service to this nation and the subsequent indignities they were forced to endure upon their return. I call on my colleagues in the House and Senate to pass this critical legislation without delay. Sgt. Isaac Woodar… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/engel-and-markey-call-on-bangladesh-to-restore-telecommunications-for-rohingya-refugee-camps-halt-relocations-to-remote-island | ENGEL AND MARKEY CALL ON BANGLADESH TO RESTORE TELECOMMUNICATIONS FOR ROHINGYA REFUGEE CAMPS, HALT RELOCATIONS TO REMOTE ISLANDRead More | 2020-12-07 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | WashingtonRepresentative Eliot L. Engel, Chairman of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, and Senator Edward Markey today urged the government of Bangladesh to restore telecommunications for the Rohingya refugee camps in Cox's Bazar. In a letter to Foreign Minister Abdul Momen, the lawmakers underscored the importance of access to communications as critical to humanitarian aid and health services during the coronavirus pandemic. The lawmakers also urged the Bangladesh government to halt further relocations to Bhasan Char, a flood prone island, until the UN Refugee Agency judges the island to be safe and habitable. Telecommunications restrictions hinder humanitarian actors' ability to communicate life-saving information amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, and barricades impede refugees' ability to access humanitarian services or to evacuate in an emergency, the lawmakers wrote, adding that we remain troubled by the relocation of refugees to Bhasan Char. The letter was also signed by Representatives Ami Bera (D-CA) and Andy Levin (D-MI). Full text of the letter can be found here and below. Dear Minister Momen: We extend our appreciation to the government and people of Bangladesh for hosting nearly a million Rohingya refugees for more than three years. We recognize that both the root of this crisis and its solution lie in Burma, and the Burmese government must do more to enable the safe, sustainable, and dignified return of Rohingya refugees back to their homes in Burma. We also appreciate your government's willingness to engage with us on issues related to the Rohingya and are pleased that your government restored 3G and 4G telecommunications networks in the camps at the end of August. This was an important step in protecting people's right to access information and further supporting humanitarian actors' ability to effectively address the ongoing needs of refugees and host communities alike, especially in the midst of a global pandemic. As countries worldwide determine the best way to p… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://www.markey.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-markey-leads-group-of-federal-massachusetts-state-lawmakers-in-call-to-postpone-public-hearings-on-east-boston-electrical-substation-re-evaluate-need-for-project | Senator Markey Leads Group of Federal, Massachusetts State Lawmakers in Call to Postpone Public Hearings on East Boston Electrical Substation, Re-evaluate Need for ProjectRead More | 2020-12-07 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Edward Markey | M000133 | www.markey.senate.gov | legacy | In their letter, the lawmakers raise concerns over scheduling meeting during pandemic, language and technology accessibility for impacted community State has designated almost every part of East Boston as anEnvironmental Justice population Boston (December 7, 2020) Senator Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.) today led members of the Massachusetts Congressional delegation, state legislature, and Boston City Council in urging the Massachusetts State Energy Facilities Siting Board (EFSB) to postpone the public meeting about the proposed Eversource electrical substation in East Boston one of the most racially and ethnically diverse communities in Massachusetts until the pandemic is over and to re-open the determination of need for the project. In their letter, the Massachusetts lawmakers highlight that the proposed site of the new substation, on the banks of Chelsea Creek, is already an area of industry overuse. They also note that with more than 14 percent of East Boston's tested residents testing positive for the virus, it is unfair to ask them to engage on a highly technical project when the area is suffering from one of the highest rates of COVID-19 in the state. Additionally, in response to community and advocate concerns about the EFSB's inadequate language access, the lawmakers urge the EFSB to address and resolve any open complaints regarding translation services before public hearings are held. Also signing the letter are: Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.); U.S. Representatives Ayanna Pressley (MA-07), Katherine Clark (MA-05), and Joseph P. Kennedy III (MA-04); Massachusetts State Senators Joseph A. Boncore (1st Suffolk and Middlesex), Sal N. DiDomenico (Middlesex and Suffolk), and Jamie Eldridge (Middlesex and Worcester); Massachusetts State Representatives Adrian C. Madaro (1st Suffolk), Daniel J. Ryan (2nd Suffolk), Liz Miranda (5th Suffolk), and Michelle DuBois (10th Plymouth); and Boston City Councilors Lydia Edwards (District 1), Julia Mejia (At-Large), Michelle Wu (At-Large),… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | ||
| https://lynch.house.gov/2020/12/reps-lynch-and-green-target-k2-veterans-health-concerns-in-final-ndaa | Reps. Lynch And Green Target K2 Veterans Health Concerns In Final NDAA | 2020-12-06 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Stephen F. Lynch | L000562 | lynch.house.gov | lynch | https://lynch.house.gov/press-releases | scraper | Washington, D.C. —Last week, the House and Senate agreed to the final version of the Fiscal Year 2021 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which includes a key provision championed by U.S. Representative Stephen F. Lynch (MA-08) and U.S. Representative Mark Green (R-TN). The measure requires the Department of Defense to conduct an epidemiological study on the toxic hazards that more than 15,000 servicemembers and veterans were exposed to while deployed to Karshi-Khanabad (K2)—a former Soviet air base in Uzbekistan—between 2001 and 2005. Reportedly, the Soviet base had been formerly used to destroy nuclear weapons and contained various toxic substances. To date, K2 veterans have reported 491 cancers and hundreds of other health conditions they believe are connected to their service at K2. This key provision was first introduced in February 2020 by Rep. Lynch and Rep. Green as H.R. 5957, the K2 Veterans Toxic Exposure Accountability Act of 2020. “I am very pleased to see this important part of the K2 Veterans Toxic Exposure Accountability Act included in the final version of the NDAA” said Rep. Lynch. “K2 veterans and servicemembers were among the first boots on the ground after the September 11, 2001, attacks. Now, as many of these brave men and women are battling devastating health conditions, they are asking for our support in return. The Department of Defense’s study will assist them in this effort, and I thank my colleague Rep. Mark Green for his support and work on this bill. While this is an important step, we must continue to fight for these American patriots who risked their lives for our country and work to ensure they and their families receive the health care, benefits and respect they have earned.” “As a conferee representing the House Homeland Security Committee to the 2020 NDAA Conference Committee, I was honored today to sign the final version of the National Defense Authorization Act that will be passed and sent to the President,” said Rep. Green. “I’m proud that my legislation on K2 vetera… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z |
| https://lynch.house.gov/press-releases?ID=9C9527F2-5902-4160-AD89-C5A8B320F534 | Reps. Lynch And Green Target K2 Veterans Health Concerns In Final NDAA | 2020-12-06 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Stephen Lynch | L000562 | lynch.house.gov | legacy | Washington, D.C. —Last week, the House and Senate agreed to the final version of the Fiscal Year 2021 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which includes a key provision championed by U.S. Representative Stephen F. Lynch (MA-08) and U.S. Representative Mark Green (R-TN). The measure requires the Department of Defense to conduct an epidemiological study on the toxic hazards that more than 15,000 servicemembers and veterans were exposed to while deployed to Karshi-Khanabad (K2)—a former Soviet air base in Uzbekistan—between 2001 and 2005. Reportedly, the Soviet base had been formerly used to destroy nuclear weapons and contained various toxic substances. To date, K2 veterans have reported 491 cancers and hundreds of other health conditions they believe are connected to their service at K2. This key provision was first introduced in February 2020 by Rep. Lynch and Rep. Green as H.R. 5957, the K2 Veterans Toxic Exposure Accountability Act of 2020. “I am very pleased to see this important part of the K2 Veterans Toxic Exposure Accountability Act included in the final version of the NDAA” said Rep. Lynch. “K2 veterans and servicemembers were among the first boots on the ground after the September 11, 2001, attacks. Now, as many of these brave men and women are battling devastating health conditions, they are asking for our support in return. The Department of Defense’s study will assist them in this effort, and I thank my colleague Rep. Mark Green for his support and work on this bill. While this is an important step, we must continue to fight for these American patriots who risked their lives for our country and work to ensure they and their families receive the health care, benefits and respect they have earned.” “As a conferee representing the House Homeland Security Committee to the 2020 NDAA Conference Committee, I was honored today to sign the final version of the National Defense Authorization Act that will be passed and sent to the President,” said Rep. Green. “I’m proud that my legislation on K2 vetera… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-06-28T00:42:23Z | ||
| https://katherineclark.house.gov/press-releases?ID=97BC1A2F-0746-4E81-BB44-37655E95DA1A | Clark Celebrates Passage of the Marijuana Opportunity Reinvestment and Expungement (MORE) Act | 2020-12-04 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Katherine M. Clark | C001101 | katherineclark.house.gov | clark | https://katherineclark.house.gov/press-releases | scraper | 0 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | |
| https://mcgovern.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=398641 | McGovern Welcomes Inclusion of Unlawful Surveillance in Colombia Study in 2021 NDAA | 2020-12-04 | 2020 | 2020-12 | Democrat | House | MA | Jim McGovern | M000312 | mcgovern.house.gov | legacy | Today, Congressman Jim McGovern (D-MA), Co-Chair of the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission, issued this statement about the 2021 NDAA conference report requiring a report to Congress on allegations that DOD-provided assistance was used by the Colombian armed forces to conduct unlawful intelligence gathering: "I am pleased that the 2021 NDAA conference report requires the Department of Defense to submit a report to Congress on allegations that DOD-provided assistance was used by the Colombian armed forces to conduct unlawful intelligence gathering. This is a first step toward ensuring that we in Congress can exercise our oversight responsibilities and make sure that U.S. taxpayers are not funding human rights abuses in Colombia. Once we have the report in hand, we will consider whether additional measures are needed. I hope those targeted by this unlawful surveillance understand how seriously the U.S. Congress views this matter, and I urge Colombian authorities to move decisively to hold those responsible to account." The full language requiring the study, from the 2021 NDAA joint explanatory statement, is below: The conferees recognize the strategic regional importance of Colombia and the longstanding partnership between the United States and Colombia, and look forward to continuing to strengthen this partnership in order to implement the Colombian peace accords and address shared regional security challenges. The conferees note with concern allegations of unlawful surveillance or intelligence gathering by the Colombian Armed Forces. The conferees encourage the Government of Colombia to continue to investigate credible allegations of misuse and take corrective actions, as appropriate, to ensure any misuse does not occur in the future. The conferees note that existing law requires that the provision of Department of Defense security sector assistance include programs focused on strengthening institutional capacity, to include adherence to human rights and international law. Additionally, the conferees no… | 1 | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z | 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z |
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