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Data license: MIT · Data source: dwillis/congress-press

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3,818 rows where chamber = "Senate", party = "Democrat" and year = 2023 sorted by date descending

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year 1

  • 2023 · 3,818 ✖

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  • Senate · 3,818 ✖
url title date ▲ year month party chamber state member_name bioguide_id domain scraper source date_source text has_text collected_at updated_at
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-on-state-of-the-union-political-leaders-need-to-start-talking-about-the-emotional-state-of-america Murphy on State of the Union: Political Leaders Need to Start Talking About the Emotional State of America 2023-12-31 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) on Sunday joined CNN’s State of the Union to discuss how government can help tackle the loneliness epidemic and why it’s important for Americans to have a national conversation about rebuilding community and connection. “Last year, we had more suicides in the United States than in any year in our lifetime. Rising rates of violence. More people taking withdrawal drugs and overdosing. It feels like people are having a harder time finding purpose and meaning than ever before. And part of the reason for that – a lot of people are lonely and feeling alone. 20 years ago, only 3% of Americans reported having no friends. Today, 12% of Americans say they have not a single friend. We report spending half as much time as we used to on a daily basis with family and friends. We’re withdrawing into ourselves, and with that comes a real sickness, emotionally, spiritually, physically. And it's something that I think political leaders need to start talking about because it impacts everybody in this country on the right and the left. And it's actually a wonderful unifying conversation because everyone in this country is feeling alone,” said Murphy. On bipartisan support for regulating social media, Murphy said: “The social media companies absolutely are determined to protect their addictive technology. Their entire business model is centered around trying to get us to look at our phones six to eight hours a day. They make less money if we're talking to each other rather than looking at our phones. But the good news is this conversation about social media regulation is one that actually brings Republicans and Democrats, the right and the left together. You talk to parents out there – it really has nothing to do with their ideology as to whether or not they want more help in trying to keep their kids off of TikTok, off of Instagram, especially when they see those sites really taking their children into a dark rabbit hole.” Murphy discussed how the political discourse is disconnected … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-statement-on-need-for-congressional-oversight-of-weapons-transfers Kaine Statement on Need for Congressional Oversight of Weapons Transfers 2023-12-30 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate VA Tim Kaine K000384 www.kaine.senate.gov kaine https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine, a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee (SFRC) and the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement regarding the Biden Administration’s decision to transfer weapons to Israel without congressional oversight: “Just as Congress has a crucial role to play in all matters of war and peace, Congress should have full visibility over the weapons we transfer to any other nation. Unnecessarily bypassing Congress means keeping the American people in the dark. We need a public explanation of the rationale behind this decision—the second such decision this month.” Kaine has long been a leading voice for the need to make decisions related to war and peace through a deliberate congressional process. This month, Kaine’s bipartisan legislation to prevent any U.S. president from unilaterally withdrawing from NATO without congressional approval was signed into law. Earlier this year, the Senate voted to pass Kaine’s bipartisan legislation to repeal the 1991 and 2002 Authorizations for Use of Military Force (AUMFs) and formally end the Gulf and Iraq wars. Kaine strongly condemned Hamas’ October 7 terrorist attacks on Israeli civilians and has been vocal about the need to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. He’s taken a series of steps to prioritize the release of hostages taken by Hamas, including directly engaging the Qatari and Egyptian governments, address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and protect civilians in Gaza and the West Bank, and counter Hamas’ terrorist threats. Kaine led his colleagues in calling for a short-term cessation of violence in order to ensure humanitarian assistance is reaching civilians in Gaza. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-statement-on-administrations-decision-to-bypass-congressional-arms-sale-approval Van Hollen Statement on Administration’s Decision to Bypass Congressional Arms Sale Approval 2023-12-30 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate MD Chris Van Hollen V000128 www.vanhollen.senate.gov vanhollen https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper News Alert: Share how President Trump’s Executive Orders are impacting you or your family News Alert: Share how President Trump’s Executive Orders are impacting y... 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-and-brauns-bipartisan-slow-down-move-over-resolution-passed-by-the-senate Blumenthal & Braun's Bipartisan Slow Down, Move Over Resolution Passed by the Senate 2023-12-29 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [WASHINGTON, DC] – The Senate passed the bipartisan “Slow Down, Move Over” resolution led by U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Mike Braun (R-IN). The resolution raises awareness of Slow Down, Move Over state laws to reduce struck-by-vehicle injuries and fatalities and to recognize the important role fire and rescue personnel, emergency medical services personnel, law enforcement officers, tow truck operators, and transportation workers play in road safety. “I’m proud the Senate has unanimously passed our bipartisan Slow Down, Move Over resolution,” said Blumenthal. “Tragic collisions that injure and kill first responders and roadside assistance workers like Corey Iodice continue to happen. This resolution amplifies the simple yet effective way to keep workers safe on the roads: Slow Down and Move Over.” “Too many first responders and roadside assistance workers are killed in accidents on our highways,” said Braun. “This resolution is inspired by Corey Iodice, who was killed in such an accident, and is a reminder to all of us of the simple thing we can do to prevent these accidents: slow down, and move over.” All 50 states have Slow Down, Move Over laws that direct motorists to reduce speed or change lanes for stopped emergency and maintenance vehicles. Despite these laws, many motorists are unaware of them and roadside fatalities and injuries continue. On average, an emergency first responder is struck and killed every 4.65 days working on America's roadways, with 51 deaths occurring in 2022. The Slow Down, Move Over resolution is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Deb Fischer (R-NE), Mark Warner (D-VA), Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Jon Tester (D-MT). It is inspired by Corey Iodice, a tow truck operator for his family’s business, who was tragically struck and killed on the Merritt Parkway in Connecticut in 2020 while assisting a driver. Following his death, his sister Cindy Iodice launched Flagman, a non-profit organization focused on raising awareness and e… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-releases-2023-end-of-year-report Murphy Releases 2023 End of Year Report 2023-12-29 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper HARTFORD–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) on Friday released his End of Year Report outlining the work he’s done for the people of Connecticut during 2023. The report details Murphy’s legislative priorities this year, including implementing the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, tackling the fentanyl crisis, rebuilding community and connection, protecting kids and holding social media companies accountable, supporting workers, making housing more affordable, and more. Murphy also helped deliver billions of federal dollars from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, CHIPS and Science Act, and the Inflation Reduction Act to create good-paying jobs in Connecticut. This year, Murphy and his office: Introduced or co-sponsored more than 200 pieces of legislation, including 24 bills or resolutions as the lead sponsor. Completed his seventh Walk Across Connecticut: four days, 67 miles, 17 towns, and hundreds of people along the way. Traveled across the state, hosting 139 town halls, roundtables, listening sessions and more with Connecticut residents. Responded and reached out to Connecticut residents through over 529,883 calls, emails, and letters. Returned $3,189,384 to constituents, including owed Social Security payments, veterans’ benefits, tax refunds, and other savings from federal agencies. Helped over 8,100 constituents work through federal issues and get their owed benefits. Click here to download Senator Murphy’s 2023 End of Year Report. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-and-merkley-announce-federal-investment-of-more-than-1-million-in-habitat-for-humanity-in-tillamook-county Wyden and Merkley Announce Federal Investment of More Than $1 Million in Habitat for Humanity in Tillamook County 2023-12-28 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate OR Ron Wyden W000779 www.wyden.senate.gov wyden https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper Federal loan will help Habitat open ReStore retail operations in Tillamook County Washington D.C.— U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley today announced a federal investment of more than $1.1 million for Habitat for Humanity in Tillamook to secure space for its retail operations and administrative offices. “In my town halls in Tillamook County and throughout the state, I hear from Oregon families and businesses that housing poses a huge challenge,” Wyden said. “Housing is a human right, and Habitat for Humanity has been on the frontline providing much-needed homes for Oregonians struggling to afford a roof over their heads. This investment will allow Habitat for Humanity to continue serving the citizens of Tillamook County for years to come.” “Everyone should have a safe, affordable place to call home. This federal investment heading to Habitat for Humanity in Tillamook County will help more rural Oregonians access quality housing,” said Sen. Merkley, who formerly led one of Habitat for Humanity's Oregon chapters. “I have seen firsthand the difference that accessible homeownership makes for families and the inspiring dedication of Habitat's staff and volunteers, who are working to realize a world where everyone has a decent home in a decent community.” The $1.13 million Rural Development loan from the U.S. Department of Agriculture will be used to buy an 8,625-square-foot commercial facility for Habitat for Humanity of Tillamook County's ReStore's retail operations and the organization's administrative offices. Habitat for Humanity works with families, local communities, volunteers and partners to enable more people to live in affordable and safe homes. Its advocacy focuses on policy reform to remove systemic barriers preventing low-income and historically underserved families from having access to adequate, affordable shelter. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-baldwin-statement-on-passing-of-senator-herb-kohl Senator Baldwin Statement on Passing of Senator Herb Kohl 2023-12-27 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate WI Tammy Baldwin B001230 www.baldwin.senate.gov baldwin https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper WISCONSIN – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin released the following statement on the passing of former Wisconsin Senator Herb Kohl. “Herb was my role model. Herb was a true public servant, leading with compassion and humility, and uncompromising in putting Wisconsin first. It didn’t matter how powerful the opposing forces were or how long the fight was, Herb was willing to take on any challenge if it meant a brighter future for Wisconsin. Herb was as generous as they come – with his resources, his knowledge, his time, and his heart. Wisconsin is lucky to have had Herb Kohl in our corner and we are undoubtedly a better, more just place because of his service. He truly was nobody’s senator but ours. My heart goes out to his family, loved ones, and the entire Badger State as we mourn the loss of a Wisconsin giant.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-and-markey-call-on-tesla-to-recall-all-vehicle-components-that-pose-known-safety-risks Blumenthal & Markey Call on Tesla to Recall All Vehicle Components that Pose Known Safety Risks 2023-12-27 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – After alarming reporting on Tesla safety flaws, U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Edward J. Markey (D-MA) called on the company to immediately recall all vehicle components that pose a risk to consumers. A recent Reuters investigation revealed that Tesla knows about existing flaws in its cars, including serious issues with steering control and suspension caused by component failures, but conceals the causes of the flaws from U.S. regulators while blaming its customers for them. “We write with extreme concern following recent reporting about Tesla’s knowledge of safety flaws in its vehicles and concealment of the causes of these flaws from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA),” wrote Blumenthal and Markey to Tesla co-founder and CEO Elon Musk. “This reporting puts your statement from January that ‘Teslas are the safest car on the road’ at stark contrast with reality. We call on you to swiftly recall all Tesla components that pose a safety risk and correct the record with NHTSA to ensure it can properly do its job.” NHTSA is currently conducting investigations into one suspension connection point, the fore link, and power steering after failures experienced by Tesla drivers. In 2020, Tesla recalled the front suspension aft link and rear suspension upper link in China, suggesting the company is aware of these flaws in its vehicles, but no recall has yet taken place in the U.S. or other countries. “[W]e are disturbed that you would blame your customers for these failures. Reporting notes that Tesla repeatedly attributed the suspension failures to ‘vehicle misuse’ or ‘driver abuse,’ including when justifying to NHTSA why it was not pursuing the aforementioned suspension recall in the United States,” continued the senators. “It is unacceptable that Tesla would not only attempt to shift the responsibility for the substandard quality of its vehicles to the people purchasing them, but also make that same flawed argument to NHTSA.” The full text of the letter can be … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-highlights-2023-accomplishments-in-year-end-round-up Duckworth Highlights 2023 Accomplishments in Year-End Round Up 2023-12-27 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – As 2023 comes to a close, U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) highlighted several key accomplishments she secured over the last year: “From helping almost 4,000 Illinoisans recover more than $2 million the Federal Government owed them to bringing home hundreds of millions of dollars to get the lead out of children’s drinking water, and from protecting hundreds of jobs in Peoria to helping bring home Illinois hostages held abroad, I’m so proud of everything we’ve accomplished this year,” Duckworth said. “It’s a true honor to continue serving Illinoisans in the United States Senate and as I look forward to the year ahead, I know there’s still much work to do to help save working families money, protect and defend women’s rights, end preventable gun violence, invest in communities that have been ignored for too long, advocate for Illinois on a global stage, support our troops and make sure we keep the promises we’ve made to our Veterans. I’m eager to get back to work for Illinois in 2024.” Over the past year, Duckworth and her office responded to nearly 600,000 emails and other messages as well as assisted more than 3,500 Illinoisans who were experiencing difficulties navigating the federal bureaucracy, helping recover more than $2 million in Social Security payments, Veterans’ benefits, tax refunds and more. A select list of Duckworth’s accomplishments from the past year is below, and a comprehensive review of her first full term in the U.S. Senate, which ended on January 2, 2023, is available on the Senator’s website using the link here. Key Accomplishments: Helping get the lead out of our children’s water: Thanks in part to Duckworth’s Drinking Water and Wastewater Infrastructure Act, this year Illinois received significant federal support for water infrastructure upgrades. Duckworth helped announce $332 million for Illinois’s Drinking Water State Revolving Fund while in Rockford, and another $336 million in Water Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (WIFIA) loans for Chicago. Safeg… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-announces-federal-highway-administration-has-heeded-his-calls-and-approved-plan-for-long-sought-crash-gate-for-emergency-vehicles-to-improve-safety-on-i-84 SCHUMER ANNOUNCES FEDERAL HIGHWAY ADMINISTRATION HAS HEEDED HIS CALLS AND APPROVED PLAN FOR LONG-SOUGHT CRASH GATE FOR EMERGENCY VEHICLES TO IMPROVE SAFETY ON I-84 2023-12-27 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate NY Charles E. Schumer S000148 www.schumer.senate.gov schumer https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper After launching his push earlier this year following the bus crash on I-84 in Orange County that tragically killed two adults and injured dozens of Farmingdale High School students, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer today announced that the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) has heeded his calls to assist New York State and local officials with the creation of an emergency vehicles-only access road, also known as a “crash gate” on I-84. “The tragic bus crash in Orange County this past September was just one of many a horrific tragedies that have taken place on Interstate 84 and plagued communities across New York with fear about the ability of first responders to quickly respond to these dangerous and sometimes deadly accidents,” said Senator Schumer. “First responders in Orange County have long called for the installation of a life-saving crash gate, and finally, after I called on the FHWA to support our local officials and help keep New Yorkers safe by working with them to greenlight this long desired safety project, I am proud to announce the federal agency has heeded our calls and has officially approved construction on an emergency crash gate for I-84. In an emergency every minute and second counts, and I will continue to fight to deliver the federal resources needed so our first responders can continue to save lives in Orange County and beyond.” A copy of Schumer’s original join letter to the Federal Highway Administration demanding further action to approve plans for the crash gate can be found here. Schumer said the construction of a crash gate for I-84 was first proposed over a decade ago, but the original proposal was never finalized. He explained that following his continued advocacy, the FHWA has officially approved the long-stalled state plan to install an emergency access point between the Goshen and Mountain Road exits — the more than a 10-mile stretch of the interstate that prevents timely emergency responses and currently sees about c per year. Currently, the Slate Hill Fire Distri… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/ndaa-signed-into-law-with-key-wins-for-rhode-island NDAA Signed into Law with Key Wins for Rhode Island 2023-12-24 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate RI Jack Reed R000122 www.reed.senate.gov jackreed https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases scraper WASHINGTON, DC -- President Joe Biden signed the Fiscal Year 2024 (FY 24) National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), annual defense authorization bill into law yesterday, confirming the largest raise in military basic pay in decades for servicemembers and the Department of Defense civilian workforce. The NDAA bolsters the defense industrial base and military readiness, providing the U.S. military with strong and versatile capabilities. Passage of the NDAA – which was approved by Congress earlier this month -- was led by U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), the Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, who worked on a bipartisan basis to pass a comprehensive NDAA that focuses on delivering the resources and equipment our troops need. “This bipartisan NDAA makes America safer and stronger. It enhances our alliances, improves national security, and supports our servicemembers, their families, and the U.S. economy,” said Senator Reed. Totaling $883.7 billion in national security investments, the NDAA establishes the policies and funding levels for the Department of Defense and the national security programs of the Department of Energy. This year’s NDAA addresses significant national security priorities, including: strategic competition with China and Russia; disruptive technologies like hypersonic weapons, artificial intelligence, and quantum computing; modernizing America’s ships, aircraft, and combat vehicles; and improving the lives of our servicemembers and their families. Notably, the FY 24 NDAA supports the trilateral security pact between Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States (AUKUS) by facilitating the transfer of significant Australian funding to support the U.S. submarine industrial base and the future sale of Virginia-class submarines to Australia. “The defense bill is essential for supporting the brave servicemen and women who volunteer to safeguard America’s freedom, security, and interests at home and across the globe. Now that the NDAA has passed the Senate on a strong, bipartisan… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/news/press-releases/a-year-in-review-senator-baldwin-crisscrossed-wisconsin A Year in Review: Senator Baldwin Crisscrossed Wisconsin 2023-12-22 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate WI Tammy Baldwin B001230 www.baldwin.senate.gov baldwin https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper WISCONSIN – In 2023, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) attended or hosted nearly 150 community events and meetings with constituents spanning 44 counties across Wisconsin. While crisscrossing the state, Senator Baldwin heard from constituents and celebrated her work to lower costs for families, support veterans, grow the Made in Wisconsin economy, rebuild crumbling infrastructure, and more. “Traveling across the state and listening to Wisconsinites is what informs my work in Washington, and I’m so grateful to the families, businesses, local leaders, and all the Wisconsinites who take the time to share their experiences with me and are working to solve our state’s toughest challenges,” said Senator Baldwin. “Traveling the state is also a time to celebrate the progress we’ve made. I was proud to deliver real results for Wisconsin families – lowering costs, curbing the opioid and fentanyl crisis, rebuilding our crumbling infrastructure, and growing our Made in Wisconsin economy. I know we have more work to do, but I am so proud that we are following our state’s motto and moving Forward.” Below are some highlights from Senator Baldwin’s year crisscrossing Wisconsin: Addressing Public Safety and Opioid Epidemic Ladysmith: At a roundtable, Senator Baldwin was joined by public health experts, law enforcement, and local officials to discuss her FEND Off Fentanyl Act and how to better protect our communities against the devastating impacts of opioids and fentanyl. Wausau: While touring the Wausau Fire Station, Senator Baldwin heard about the impact the $3 million SAFER Grant she helped secure will allow for the hiring of nine new firefighters, helping them meet increasing demand and responsibilities. Prairie du Chien: Joining first responders, Senator Baldwin celebrated the nearly $5 million of federal funding she helped deliver for the new Prairie du Chien Public Safety Center that will help first responders meet challenges, keep communities safe, and attract and retain talent. Keshena: Senator Baldwin visited the… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/the-voices-behind-the-kids-online-safety-act-lori-schott-from-colorado The Voices Behind the Kids Online Safety Act: Lori Schott from Colorado 2023-12-22 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – The bipartisan Kids Online Safety Act, led by U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), is strongly supported by a broad coalition of parents who have tragically lost their children or whose kids have been severely harmed by Big Tech, young people who want to regain control over their online lives, and experts and advocates who study and see the negative effects of social media firsthand in their communities. The “Voices Behind the Kids Online Safety Act” series will amplify their stories as they call on Congress to pass the legislation to help protect themselves online and to hold Big Tech accountable. The bill has the support of nearly half of the U.S. Senate. Lori Schott Lori Schott’s interview with Denver7 The full interview & story can be found HERE The Schott Family’s Story: The Schotts lost Annalee on November 15, 2020. She was just 18 years old when she died by suicide. Her mom, dad and brothers were left brokenhearted, and at a complete loss as to what led her to such a dark place.” But as Lori came to learn, Annalee left behind clues. … Scrolling through the videos, Lori said she found video after video of young people sharing — and at times glamorizing — self-harm and self-hate. Many had tens of thousands of likes or more. Lori Schott’s Mission: “At that moment is when I decided that pain has to be purpose, that I don’t want to see what happened to our daughter impact any other children," Lori said. Stories like Annalee Schott’s have inspired a rare bipartisan mission in Washington, D.C. to hold social media companies accountable for the content their algorithms serve to our young people. The Kids Online Safety Act (KOSA) is before Congress and has cosponsors from both parties, including Colorado Senator John Hickenlooper. … But in Lori Schott’s eyes, KOSA is a vital first step to making the internet safer for our kids and building her daughter’s legacy. Annalee left her journal entries, Lori said, so we all could “see the impact and to dig d… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-durbin-budzinski-demand-answers-from-nippon-steel-on-commitments-to-granite-city Duckworth, Durbin, Budzinski Demand Answers from Nippon Steel on Commitments to Granite City 2023-12-22 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [SPRINGFIELD, IL] — This week, U.S. Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and Dick Durbin (D-IL) joined Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski (D-IL-13) in sending a letter to Nippon Steel pushing the company for commitments to Granite City steelworkers during its proposed acquisition of U.S. Steel. In their letter, Duckworth, Durbin and Budzinski demanded answers from Nippon Steel on their intentions with existing operations and facilities in Illinois, details on worker retention and any proposed layoffs and their plans for Granite City Works. “We write today to express deep concerns with Nippon Steel’s plans to acquire U.S. Steel Corporation, particularly with respect to the deal’s impact on Illinois steelworkers. Given the critical importance of the steel industry to our region and the long history of union labor driving U.S. Steel to global prominence, it is essential that any company that plans to do business with U.S. Steel have a full understanding of the company’s legal commitments to its workers under collectively bargained agreements, maintain those commitments, and ensure that workers are protected in the next phase of the company’s future,” wrote the lawmakers. The full text of the letter can be found here and below: December 21, 2023 Mr. Eiji Hashimoto President Nippon Steel Corporation 6-1, Marunouchi 2-chome Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Japan We write today to express deep concerns with Nippon Steel’s plans to acquire U.S. Steel Corporation, particularly with respect to the deal’s impact on Illinois steelworkers. Given the critical importance of the steel industry to our region and the long history of union labor driving U.S. Steel to global prominence, it is essential that any company that plans to do business with U.S. Steel have a full understanding of the company’s legal commitments to its workers under collectively bargained agreements, maintain those commitments, and ensure that workers are protected in the next phase of the company’s future. The surprise announcement of the sale of U.S. Steel on the mornin… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/12/22/2023/signed-into-law-annual-defense-bill-with-key-hassan-backed-provisions SIGNED INTO LAW: Annual Defense Bill with Key Hassan-Backed Provisions 2023-12-22 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate NH Margaret Wood Hassan H001076 www.hassan.senate.gov hassan https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – President Biden signed into law the bipartisan National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2024, which includes key national security provisions that Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH) secured and supported. The bill includes a 5.2 percent pay raise for U.S. service members and specifically includes bipartisan measures that Senator Hassan authored to provide parental leave parity for Reserve and National Guard members and prepare for emerging national security threats posed by quantum technology. “We must do everything that we can to support our service members and their mission to protect our national security,” said Senator Hassan. “I am glad to see this bipartisan bill signed into law, which includes measures to get our service members the pay and benefits they deserve, invests in New Hampshire’s military institutions, and will help keep our country safe, secure, and free.” “I am also pleased that as part of the annual defense bill, we passed into law my bipartisan bill to provide paid leave parity for those in the National Guard and Reserves, as well as my bipartisan bill to better prepare for threats posed by our adversaries’ development of quantum technology,” said Senator Hassan. “Parental leave should be available to all new parents, and service members in the Reserves and the National Guard should have the same access to parental leave as those serving on active duty – this bill will ensure that is the case. Additionally, quantum technology has major national security implications, including the potential for our adversaries to use it to decrypt encrypted messages and data, and my bipartisan bill will expand our country’s efforts to stay ahead of our adversaries and respond to these threats while taking advantage of the opportunities presented by quantum technology.” Key measures that Senator Hassan supported that are included in the NDAA and have now passed into law: Senator Hassan’s bipartisan bill introduced with Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) to expand parental leave eligibili… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-applauds-fiscal-year-2024-national-defense-act-becoming-law Kaine Applauds Fiscal Year 2024 National Defense Act Becoming Law 2023-12-22 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate VA Tim Kaine K000384 www.kaine.senate.gov kaine https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) and Chair of the SASC Subcommittee on Seapower, applauded the Fiscal Year 2024 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) becoming law. The bipartisan legislation includes several provisions secured by Kaine to support our national security and Virginia’s defense community. As a member of SASC, Kaine played a key role in shaping the legislation and served as a member of the conference committee working to reconcile differences between the House and Senate-passed versions of the bill. “I’m glad the president signed this defense bill, which will support our national security, servicemembers, and Virginia’s defense community. I help write this bill every year, and this year, I’m particularly proud to have included bipartisan legislation I led to prevent any U.S. president from unilaterally withdrawing from NATO and to direct more federal attention to combat the fentanyl crisis. I also ensured the incorporation of my provisions to implement the Australia-U.K.-U.S. (AUKUS) agreement, which will support the security of our allies and boost Virginia’s economy.” Kaine successfully secured the following provisions in the legislation: NATO: Includes Kaine’s bipartisan legislation with Senator Marco Rubio (R-FL) to prevent any U.S. president from unilaterally withdrawing from NATO without congressional approval. Disrupt Fentanyl Trafficking Act: Includes provisions from Kaine’s bipartisan bill with Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA) to direct increased federal attention to fentanyl trafficking by utilizing Pentagon tools like counter-drug intelligence and involving Mexico as an active partner to combat the crisis and disrupt cartel activity in Mexico. Specifically, the Disrupt Fentanyl Trafficking Act of 2023 will work to strengthen these efforts by: Highlighting the need to address the threat to national security posed by fentanyl trafficking. Directing the Pentagon to develop a fentanyl-specific counter-drug strategy, incl… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-tillis-urge-cms-to-clarify-guidance-protect-medicare-advantage-beneficiaries-access-to-long-term-care-facilities Murphy, Tillis Urge CMS to Clarify Guidance, Protect Medicare Advantage Beneficiaries' Access to Long Term Care Facilities 2023-12-22 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, and U.S. Senator Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) sent a letter to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Administrator Chiquita Brooks-LaSure urging public clarification that critically and chronically ill Medicare Advantage (MA) beneficiaries will have the same access to Long-Term Care Hospital services as traditional Medicare beneficiaries, as required by law. Murphy and Tillis detail how MA plans’ prior authorization practices are used to deny coverage of medically necessary care at Long-Term Care Hospitals (LTCHs). “Long-Term Care Hospitals (LTCHs) are hospitals that provide specialized care for high-acuity patients who require an extended hospital stay. These facilities are designed to care for severely ill patients who require complex medical treatment, such as mechanical ventilation and wound care. To be recognized as an LTCH, CMS requires hospitals to satisfy the conditions of participation of a short-term acute care hospital (STACH) but have an average Medicare length of stay greater than 25 days. In contrast, the average Medicare length of stay in a STACH is about 5 days,” the senators wrote. “Medicare Advantage beneficiaries are less than half as likely to receive LTCH care compared to traditional Medicare beneficiaries. Recent research suggests that these practices may be worsening the outcomes of Medicare Advantage beneficiaries; a 2021 peer-reviewed study found that delays in the transfer of mechanically ventilated patients to an LTCH decreased a patient’s likelihood of being successfully weaned from the ventilator and breathing on his or her own." “We have heard concerns from LTCHs in our states, as well as patients, that LTCHs regularly receive denial letters from Medicare Advantage plans stating that an LTCH transfer was not required because the patient could receive all necessary services in the short-term acute care hospital, even though the provider referred the pati… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-applauds-more-than-46-million-in-funds-heading-to-greensource-fabrication-in-charlestown-to-boost-defense-industrial-base Shaheen Applauds More Than $46 Million in Funds Heading to GreenSource Fabrication in Charlestown to Boost Defense Industrial Base 2023-12-22 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate NH Jeanne Shaheen S001181 www.shaheen.senate.gov shaheen https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press scraper (Washington, DC) – Today, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, applauded $46.2 million in federal funds awarded to GreenSource Fabrication, LLC., through the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD)’s Defense Production Act Investment (DPAI) Program. These funds will enhance existing production capabilities for GreenSource Fabrication and promote supply chain security for semiconductors, which are used by all major U.S. defense systems. Ensuring the United States has domestic capabilities in microelectronics will enable America to stay on the cutting-edge of manufacturing defense articles and provide a technical advantage ahead of its adversaries. “New Hampshire plays a critical role in our nation’s defense industrial base and these federal funds will help enhance production and manufacturing capabilities at GreenSource Fabrication,” said Senator Shaheen. “These funds will broaden access to advanced hardware that – until recently – could only be procured from foreign sources, helping strengthen our supply chain and military readiness and solidifying New Hampshire’s role as a leader in domestic defense manufacturing.” GreenSource Fabrication operates a state-of-the-art facility in Charlestown, New Hampshire that manufactures High-Density Interconnect Printed Circuit Boards and High Density Build-up organic substrates, used in nearly all electronic products. The award will enable GreenSource to scale up engineering, tooling and manufacturing operations to establish a dedicated building for integrated circuit substrate fabrication, crucial parts in the fabrication of semiconductor devices. These domestic production capabilities for semiconductors are critical enabling technologies for sixth-generation defense systems and applications, including for radar, electronic warfare, information processing and communications. Senator Shaheen is a leader in the U.S. Senate to bolster the domestic defense industrial base to ensure U.S. troops have the cutting-edge equipment the… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/maryland-delegation-members-announce-over-240-million-for-clean-water-infrastructure-across-maryland Maryland Delegation Members Announce Over $240 Million for Clean Water Infrastructure Across Maryland 2023-12-22 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate MD Chris Van Hollen V000128 www.vanhollen.senate.gov vanhollen https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin and Congressmen Steny H. Hoyer, Dutch Ruppersberger, John Sarbanes, Kweisi Mfume, Jamie Raskin, David Trone, and Glenn Ivey (all D-Md.) announced $240,451,000 to modernize clean water infrastructure across Maryland. The federal funding, provided by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Fund program, will support the Maryland Department of the Environment’s efforts to provide low- or no-interest loans for critical water infrastructure projects, helping communities across the state maintain access to clean water. Most of the funding – $211,862,000 – comes from the once-in-a-generation Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which the lawmakers and the Biden-Harris Administration fought to enact to deliver historic federal investments in the country’s water infrastructure. This funding will supplement the $28,589,000 in federal funding appropriated to Maryland's Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds (SRFs) that the lawmakers secured through annual appropriations for fiscal year 2023. “Modernizing our water infrastructure is a critical public health priority. That’s one of the reasons why we fought to pass the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act – to advance our progress in communities across our state and improve their access to clean and safe drinking water. With these funds, we’re delivering on that objective for Marylanders,” said the lawmakers. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-baldwin-statement-on-the-ongoing-israel-hamas-war Senator Baldwin Statement on the Ongoing Israel-Hamas War 2023-12-21 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate WI Tammy Baldwin B001230 www.baldwin.senate.gov baldwin https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper WISCONSIN – U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin released the following statement on the ongoing Israel-Hamas war: “Hamas’s October 7th terrorist massacre has led to unbearable suffering in Israel, Gaza, and around the world. As I have said before, I support Israel’s right to defend itself against Hamas, bring hostages back home, and end the terrorist organization’s threat – but it does not have the right to go to war against innocent Palestinian people. Eliminating the threat posed by Hamas and protecting civilians are not mutually exclusive aims. “Unfortunately, the Netanyahu government’s indiscriminate bombing and military approach has led to unacceptable bloodshed in Gaza and does not appear to be moving us closer to our ultimate goals of removing Hamas from power and achieving a lasting peace in the region through a two-state solution. Preservation of innocent lives and civilian infrastructure is not just morally right, but also necessary to accomplish security, stability, and peace in the region moving forward. “I support the resumption of a humanitarian ceasefire, in order to accelerate the delivery of humanitarian aid, protect innocent civilians and civilian sites, and negotiate the release of the hostages taken on October 7th. This is only possible if both Hamas and the Israeli government cooperate. As we look ahead, the United States needs to continue to do more to urge Israel to protect Palestinian civilians, facilitate humanitarian efforts, and play a more active role in helping create a two-state solution – something I have long supported – to ensure that both the Palestinian and Israeli people have the right to self-determination, safety, and security.” In response to ongoing war and the growing humanitarian crisis, Senator Baldwin supports the following actions: An immediate humanitarian ceasefire that ensures the unconditional release of all hostages and full humanitarian access to Gaza, agreed to by both Israel and Hamas. Adherence to International Humanitarian Law by all parties and the protection o… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-klobuchar-lead-call-for-increased-funding-to-help-ensure-our-childrens-food-is-safe-and-free-of-toxins Duckworth, Klobuchar Lead Call for Increased Funding to Help Ensure Our Childrens’ Food is Safe and Free of Toxins 2023-12-21 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Following recent reports of heavy metals being found in baby food and food pouches for young children, U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), along with several of their Senate colleagues, are leading the call for Senate Appropriators to prioritize additional resources that would help the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) Maternal and Infant Health Nutrition programs, including the Closer to Zero program, better ensure the food our nation’s children consume is nutritious, safe and free of toxins. “Recent news regarding elevated blood lead levels in young children potentially linked to certain fruit puree products once again highlights why we should prioritize Federal funds to make sure that the very youngest members of our society are fed safe and nutritious foods,” wrote the Senators. “Additional funding is necessary to continue supporting and expanding the vital work FDA is undertaking to ensure infant formula and baby foods are safe for our Nation’s next generation…This includes hiring additional, qualified staff with strong expertise to review infant formula registrations and monitor baby food safety before products hit the market. Additional support will help FDA to prevent and better respond to outbreaks or needed recalls.” Along with Duckworth and Klobuchar, the letter was cosigned by U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Ron Wyden (D-OR) and Cory Booker (D-NJ). Full text of the letter can be found using the link here and below: Dear Chair Murray and Vice Chair Collins: We write to thank you for your strong support of the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) Maternal and Infant Health programs, including the Closer to Zero program, in Fiscal Year (FY) 2023. We urge you to increase funds to those programs as you refine the FY 2024 appropriations package. Recent news regarding elevated blood lead levels in young children potentially linked to certain fruit puree products once again highlights why we should prioritize … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/12/28/2023/senator-hassan-nominates-new-hampshire-students-for-united-states-service-academies Senator Hassan Nominates New Hampshire Students for United States Service Academies 2023-12-21 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate NH Margaret Wood Hassan H001076 www.hassan.senate.gov hassan https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan announced that she has nominated 42 New Hampshire students to attend United States Service Academies - the U.S. Air Force Academy, U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Military Academy, and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. “I am grateful for the young Granite Staters who are stepping forward to serve our country in uniform and keep us safe, secure, and free,” said Senator Hassan. “It is an honor to nominate these New Hampshire students to attend our United States Service Academies, and I look forward to seeing all that these students accomplish in the years to come. For more information on the nomination process for interested applicants, click here. See below for the full list of Senator Hassan’s nominees: NAVAL ACADEMY Rathank Chea, Hampton Stephen Cleveland, Lincoln Caitlyn Koutalidis, Hampton Max Durkin, Greenland Aaron Jee, Bedford Patrick Gandini, Gilford Nolan Matuszak, Hampstead Anderson Seals, Exeter Mackenzie Poplawski, Hampton Kyle Ashley, Newport AIR FORCE ACADEMY Sky Willer, Epsom Dalton Cox, Hollis Naomi Nunez, Littleton Aislyn Reed, Bow Peter Evans, Barrington Martina Pike, Loudon Michael Nemeth, Hudson Colin Atkinson, Amherst Trey Baker, Hampstead Justin Blanchard, Portsmouth Taylor Anderton, Hampton Falls Adam Connelly, Hollis Thomas Johnson, Nashua Wyatt Lake, Etna Talia Parmalee, Exeter Charlotte Smith, Center Barnstead Rayna Thompson, Brentwood Alec Simoneau, Amherst Brandon Adamson, Londonderry Nicholas Engert, Grantham MILITARY ACADEMY Jackson Bairstow, Dover Annie Christina, Brentwood Thomas Lacroix, Auburn Thaddeus Maughan, Hopkinton Regan McIntire, Gilford Thanida Thomas, Thornton Tatiana Stockbower, Dover Harley Twofoot, Merrimack Declan MacDougall, Somersworth Victoria Kelly, Northfield MERCHANT MARINE ACADEMY Derek Leedberg, Stratham Meghan Shippos, Bow Trey Baker, Hampstead Victoria Kelly, Northfield Nolan Matuszak, Hampstead ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/following-calls-from-nh-delegation-pay-boosted-for-granite-staters-working-at-the-va-white-mountain-national-forest-and-other-federal-offices-in-nh Following Calls from NH Delegation, Pay Boosted for Granite Staters Working at the VA, White Mountain National Forest, and Other Federal Offices in NH 2023-12-21 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate NH Margaret Wood Hassan H001076 www.hassan.senate.gov hassan https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – Following a push from the New Hampshire and Vermont Congressional Delegations, the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) is increasing pay for federal employees in New Hampshire and Vermont, who support Granite Staters through their work at places like the White River Junction VA Medical Center, White Mountain National Forest, and the Army’s Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory. It applies to workers in Carroll, Cheshire, Grafton, and Sullivan Counties in New Hampshire, as well as in Vermont, who will now receive the same locality pay as those in most counties in New Hampshire and in the Greater Boston area. The classification changes in New Hampshire and Vermont will mean that more than 1,000 federal employees will now receive more competitive pay rates. The announcement comes after the New Hampshire and Vermont Congressional Delegations urged OPM to take this action, and will help increase efforts to hire and retain federal employees for critical efforts, including implementation of the PACT Act, which Senator Hassan and colleagues developed and passed into law last year to help get veterans exposed to toxic substances the VA health care and benefits that they need. “Granite Staters deserve a fully staffed, well-qualified federal workforce in order to best serve them,” said Senator Maggie Hassan. “This important pay increase will help recruit and retain the talented public servants who help Granite Staters – including our veterans – get the support that they need.” “This long-overdue pay raise for the hard-working federal employees in Carroll, Cheshire, Grafton and Sullivan Counties is a great way to end the year,” said Senator Jeanne Shaheen. “I’m proud to have worked with the New Hampshire delegation to get this done so folks are paid what they deserve for the work they do.” “Hardworking New Hampshire families deserve to be fairly compensated for their work,” said Congresswoman Annie Kuster. “I’m pleased to see this change that the New Hampshire Delegation advocated for take effect… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/following-devastating-floods-shaheen-leads-nh-congressional-delegation-letter-to-fema-requesting-the-agency-standby-to-provide-disaster-assistance-funds Following Devastating Floods, Shaheen Leads NH Congressional Delegation Letter to FEMA Requesting the Agency Standby to Provide Disaster Assistance Funds 2023-12-21 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate NH Margaret Wood Hassan H001076 www.hassan.senate.gov hassan https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper (Washington, DC) – Today, U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH), along with U.S. Representatives Annie Kuster (NH-02) and Chris Pappas (NH-01), sent a letter to Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator Deanne Criswell in support of New Hampshire communities following severe flooding and wind damage. The letter urges FEMA, in the event the state asks, to work with affected counties and the state government to respond to severe flooding and wind damage and if the state asks for a disaster declaration, to make assistance available quickly. “The effect of the heavy rainfall and flooding were felt throughout the state with numerous road closures due to rising water and full roadway washouts. In addition to transportation infrastructure being damaged, there are reports of homes being destroyed in northern New Hampshire and some residents having to be rescued by National Guard helicopter. The full extent of the damages throughout the state won’t be known until the waters recede,” the Delegation wrote. On December 18, 2023, a massive storm system swept across New England, bringing rain and winds with speeds approaching Category 1 hurricane force. Many places in New Hampshire recorded rainfall of 1.5 to 3 inches, with at least one community experiencing much as six inches. This heavy rainfall was exacerbated by unseasonably warm temperatures that melted snow, which increased the water level in streams and rivers. Flash flood warnings were in effect over broad swaths of the state. “State officials have said that much of the current damage is to infrastructure, and there is a concern that snow could soon fall and cover the damage, making a true accounting of the damage more difficult. Given the extensive flooding and wind damage, we call on FEMA to stand ready to participate in a Preliminary Damage Assessment with state and local officials, should the state request it,” the Delegation continued. Full text of the letter is available here. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/warner-kaine-and-colleagues-sound-the-alarm-about-economic-deterioration-in-the-west-bank Warner, Kaine & Colleagues Sound the Alarm About Economic Deterioration in the West Bank 2023-12-21 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate VA Tim Kaine K000384 www.kaine.senate.gov kaine https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Mark R. Warner (D-VA), Chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, led Senators Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Angus King (I-ME), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Tom Carper (D-DE) Jack Reed (D-RI), and Ron Wyden (D-OR) in sounding the alarm about the economic deterioration in the West Bank and the troubling rise in violent acts perpetrated by extremist Israeli settlers. In a letter to President Biden, the lawmakers stressed the need for Israel to take steps to address the growing instability in the West Bank, including by ensuring that the Palestinian Security Forces are able to ward off violence against innocent Palestinian civilians and prevent further destabilization, which could open an additional front to the conflict. This letter follows a decision by Israel to withhold a significant portion of tax revenues that its government collects on behalf of the Palestinian Authority (PA). These revenues – meant to be collected and transferred based on longstanding agreement – are critical for the PA’s civil administration and security purposes. “A range of factors since October 7 – including a loss of wages for the thousands of Palestinians in the West Bank whose work permits Israel revoked – have contributed to an economic situation that has shuttered thousands of West Bank businesses and reduced the Palestinian Authority’s (PA) revenues by roughly 80 percent. Those revenues support a range of critical functions for the PA, including paying public-worker salaries as well as the salaries of members of the Palestinian Security Forces, whose local law enforcement and security efforts are critical to maintaining stability in the West Bank,” wrote the senators. “A significant source of the PA’s revenue derives from Palestinian import tax revenues, which according to long-standing agreement, the Israeli government collects on behalf of, and then transfers to, the PA. We are concerned th… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/warner-kaine-scott-announce-3-million-in-federal-funding-for-regional-flood-risk-management-feasibility-study-in-hampton-va Warner, Kaine, Scott Announce $3 Million in Federal Funding for Regional Flood Risk Management Feasibility Study in Hampton, VA 2023-12-21 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate VA Tim Kaine K000384 www.kaine.senate.gov kaine https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA), and Representative Bobby Scott (D-VA-3) announced $3,000,000 to initiate the Peninsula Regional Flood Risk Management feasibility study for the City of Hampton, VA and the surrounding region. As part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the lawmakers previously secured $1.5 million for the Virginia Beach and Vicinity Coastal Storm Risk Management Study and nearly $399 million for the Norfolk Coastal Storm Risk Management Project. Today’s announcement builds on that progress by extending the study of flood risk management strategies to the Peninsula. The study will investigate flood threats ranging from sea level rise, coastal storm surge, and rainfall events, and will develop mitigation solutions to reduce flood risk. This funding will allow work on the study to begin immediately. “Rising sea levels threaten lives and livelihoods, and in no place has that been more evident than this region, which has experienced record flooding in recent years,” the members said. “We’re glad to see this crucial funding finally head to the region in order to develop a comprehensive resilience plan for all of Hampton Roads.” The Hampton Roads region is subject to the highest rate of historic relative sea level rise on the U.S. east coast and tenth worldwide in terms of value of assets exposed to flooding. Sea level rise conditions underscore the necessity for a comprehensive study to identify and address flooding challenges to ensure continued quality of life, economic growth, and ecosystem health for the region. Since 2021, Sens. Warner and Kaine have requested funding for this project in order to build a comprehensive flood management and storm resilience plan for the region. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/ri-delegation-urges-federal-assistance-to-help-recover-from-storm-related-flooding RI Delegation Urges Federal Assistance to Help Recover from Storm-Related Flooding 2023-12-21 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate RI Jack Reed R000122 www.reed.senate.gov jackreed https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases scraper WASHINGTON, DC – As Rhode Island assesses flood damage and begins to recover from a severe storm system that moved through the state earlier this week, U.S. Senators Jack Reed and Sheldon Whitehouse and U.S. Representatives Seth Magaziner and Gabe Amo are urging President Biden to promptly approve any request for federal assistance made by the State of Rhode Island to support emergency operations and accelerate recovery from significant local flooding. The National Weather Service reported that northern Rhode Island into the Providence area saw the region’s highest rainfall totals, where at least 4.5 inches of rainfall were observed. Local utility providers also reported more than 70,000 power outages as a result of damaging winds. Governor McKee has declared a state of emergency as a result of the damaging storm. This step is an essential prerequisite for seeking federal disaster assistance. The state will now need to assess the cost of the emergency response and damages associated with the storm in order to determine if it meets the minimum thresholds required for a federal emergency or major disaster declaration. “This severe storm system wreaked havoc on certain parts of the state, and a number of neighborhoods were hit hard by flooding. We are committed to doing everything we can to help in the recovery effort. With the storm behind us, it is now important for the State to work with local leaders, FEMA, and other federal partners to quickly assess the damage and determine what assistance can be provided to help communities, businesses, and homeowners get back on their feet,” said Reed, Whitehouse, Magaziner, and Amo in a joint statement. In an effort to help Rhode Island communities and the state respond to storm-related damage and flooding, the state’s Congressional delegation sent a letter urging President Biden to support Rhode Island and expediate any and all emergency assistance. The full text of the letter follows: President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW Wash… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases/schatz-statement-on-new-ftc-proposal-to-protect-childrens-privacy-online Schatz Statement On New FTC Proposal To Protect Children’s Privacy Online 2023-12-21 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate HI Brian Schatz S001194 www.schatz.senate.gov schatz https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) released the following statement after the Federal Trade Commission unveiled a proposal aimed at expanding protections for children’s privacy online. Specifically, the proposal would limit the ability of social media platforms to send push notifications to young users and further limit data retention for youth, among other things. “Tech platforms have knowingly harvested and profited off of children’s data for years, using targeted advertising and other tools to keep kids scrolling at the expense of their mental health and development,” said Senator Schatz. “The FTC’s proposal is an encouraging step toward implementing safeguards to protect the youngest users of social media against constant surveillance and manipulation. But rulemaking is no substitute for law – Congress needs to act. We urgently need to pass legislation that will protect kids online by setting minimum age requirements for social media use and banning algorithmic targeting for children and teens.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/following-devastating-floods-shaheen-leads-nh-congressional-delegation-letter-to-fema-requesting-the-agency-standby-to-provide-disaster-assistance-funds Following Devastating Floods, Shaheen Leads NH Congressional Delegation Letter to FEMA Requesting the Agency Standby to Provide Disaster Assistance Funds 2023-12-21 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate NH Jeanne Shaheen S001181 www.shaheen.senate.gov shaheen https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press scraper (Washington, DC) – Today, U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH), along with U.S. Representatives Annie Kuster (NH-02) and Chris Pappas (NH-01), sent a letter to Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Administrator Deanne Criswell in support of New Hampshire communities following severe flooding and wind damage. The letter urges FEMA, in the event the state asks, to work with affected counties and the state government to respond to severe flooding and wind damage and if the state asks for a disaster declaration, to make assistance available quickly. “The effect of the heavy rainfall and flooding were felt throughout the state with numerous road closures due to rising water and full roadway washouts. In addition to transportation infrastructure being damaged, there are reports of homes being destroyed in northern New Hampshire and some residents having to be rescued by National Guard helicopter. The full extent of the damages throughout the state won’t be known until the waters recede,” the Delegation wrote. On December 18, 2023, a massive storm system swept across New England, bringing rain and winds with speeds approaching Category 1 hurricane force. Many places in New Hampshire recorded rainfall of 1.5 to 3 inches, with at least one community experiencing much as six inches. This heavy rainfall was exacerbated by unseasonably warm temperatures that melted snow, which increased the water level in streams and rivers. Flash flood warnings were in effect over broad swaths of the state. “State officials have said that much of the current damage is to infrastructure, and there is a concern that snow could soon fall and cover the damage, making a true accounting of the damage more difficult. Given the extensive flooding and wind damage, we call on FEMA to stand ready to participate in a Preliminary Damage Assessment with state and local officials, should the state request it,” the Delegation continued. Full text of the letter is available here. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/maryland-delegation-members-announce-more-than-25-million-to-improve-road-safety-across-maryland Maryland Delegation Members Announce More Than $25 Million to Improve Road Safety Across Maryland 2023-12-21 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate MD Chris Van Hollen V000128 www.vanhollen.senate.gov vanhollen https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin and Congressmen Steny H. Hoyer, Dutch Ruppersberger, John Sarbanes, Kweisi Mfume, Jamie Raskin, David Trone, and Glenn Ivey (all D-Md.) announced $28,505,333 to improve road safety in communities across Maryland. The federal funding, provided by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) grant program, will help local departments of transportation across the state develop and implement safety action plans and structural improvements to better accommodate and ensure the safety of drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians on roadways. The Safe Streets and Roads for All program will help to save lives on roadways across the country, supporting many local governments’ existing “Vision Zero” plans, which aim to eliminate all traffic fatalities and serious injuries on roadways. The SS4A program was established and funded at $5 billion over five years by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, legislation the lawmakers worked to pass to support infrastructure initiatives across the country. “Too often, aging infrastructure contributes to accidents that cause serious injuries and even death for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians. These funds from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, which we fought to pass, will upgrade our roads, make them safer for our communities, and shorten commute times for the millions of hardworking Marylanders who depend on public infrastructure every day. They will enable our local partners to improve safety and accessibility on roadways across our state,” said the lawmakers. The federal funds were awarded as follows: Greater Baltimore Region $9,920,000 to the Baltimore City Department of Transportation to pilot a Complete Streets project, which will reduce dangerous accidents by making city roadways more accessible through temporary lane and street closure events for cyclists and pedestrians as well as sensors that will help plan improvements at the city’s most high-volume intersections; $3,648,000… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=74152009-A568-4072-95E6-F3399A6F8809 Warner, Kaine, Scott Announce $3 Million in Federal Funding for Regional Flood Risk Management in Hampton, VA 2023-12-21 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate VA Mark R. Warner W000805 www.warner.senate.gov warner https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases scraper WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA), and Rep. Bobby Scott (D-VA-03) announced $3,000,000 to initiate the Peninsula Regional Flood Risk Management feasibility study for the City of Hampton, VA and the surrounding region. As part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the lawmakers previously secured $1.5 million for the Virginia Beach and Vicinity Coastal Storm Risk Management Study and nearly $399 million for the Norfolk Coastal Storm Risk Management Project. Today’s announcement builds on that progress by extending the study of flood risk management strategies to the Peninsula. The study will investigate flood threats ranging from sea level rise, coastal storm surge, and rainfall events, and will develop mitigation solutions to reduce flood risk. This funding will allow work on the study to begin immediately. “Rising sea levels threaten lives and livelihoods, and in no place has that been more evident than this region, which has experienced record flooding in recent years,” the members said. “We’re glad to see this crucial funding finally head to the region in order to develop a comprehensive resilience plan for all of Hampton Roads.” The Hampton Roads region is subject to the highest rate of historic relative sea level rise on the U.S. east coast and tenth worldwide in terms of value of assets exposed to flooding. Sea level rise conditions underscore the necessity for a comprehensive study to identify and address flooding challenges to ensure continued quality of life, economic growth, and ecosystem health for the region. Since 2021, Sens. Warner and Kaine have requested funding for this project in order to build a comprehensive flood management and storm resilience plan for the region. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=F477A381-91DE-48A6-8275-990FED884AE8 Warner and Colleagues Sound the Alarm About Economic Deterioration in the West Bank 2023-12-21 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate VA Mark R. Warner W000805 www.warner.senate.gov warner https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases scraper WASHINGTON – U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA), Chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, led Sens. Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Angus King (I-ME), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Tom Carper (D-DE) Jack Reed (D-RI), and Ron Wyden (D-OR) in sounding the alarm about the economic deterioration in the West Bank and the troubling rise in violent acts perpetrated by extremist Israeli settlers. In a letter to President Biden, the lawmakers stressed the need for Israel to take steps to address the growing instability in the West Bank, including by ensuring that the Palestinian Security Forces are able to ward off violence against innocent Palestinian civilians and prevent further destabilization, which could open an additional front to the conflict. This letter follows a decision by Israel to withhold a significant portion of tax revenues that its government collects on behalf of the Palestinian Authority (PA). These revenues – meant to be collected and transferred based on longstanding agreement – are critical for the PA’s civil administration and security purposes. “A range of factors since October 7 – including a loss of wages for the thousands of Palestinians in the West Bank whose work permits Israel revoked – have contributed to an economic situation that has shuttered thousands of West Bank businesses and reduced the Palestinian Authority’s (PA) revenues by roughly 80 percent. Those revenues support a range of critical functions for the PA, including paying public-worker salaries as well as the salaries of members of the Palestinian Security Forces, whose local law enforcement and security efforts are critical to maintaining stability in the West Bank,” wrote the Senators. “A significant source of the PA’s revenue derives from Palestinian import tax revenues, which according to long-standing agreement, the Israeli government collects on behalf of, and then transfers to, the PA. We are concerned that the Israe… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-announce-22-million-for-rural-school-hybrid-program Wyden, Merkley Announce $2.2 Million for Rural School Hybrid Program 2023-12-21 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate OR Ron Wyden W000779 www.wyden.senate.gov wyden https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. – Oregon Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley today announced a $2.2 million federal grant from the U.S. Department of Education’s Rural Postsecondary and Economic Development Program for Chemeketa Community College. “Students of all backgrounds deserve a fair shot at a solid education,” Wyden said. “This funding is the perfect example of how to expand opportunitiesfor folks in rural Oregon and across the nation, and I applaud Chemeketa Community College for receiving this grant.” “Higher education helps connect students with resources, opportunities, and tools to thrive, building stronger communities, economies, and futures in Oregon,” said Merkley. “As the first in my family to graduate from college, I know how challenging it can be to access higher education—especially for those coming from underrepresented and underserved backgrounds. This incredibly important funding for Chemeketa Community College will help provide crucial support and opportunities, opening doors for Oregon’s rural students” “We are thrilled to receive this grant for the 'Chemeketa College-going Access and Regional Equity for Students (CARES)' project. This funding will empower us to expand educational opportunities for rural high school students, strengthen community partnerships, and ensure a brighter future for our region," said Jessica Howard, Ph.D., President and CEO of Chemeketa Community College. The $2.2 million federal grant will support the Chemeketa College-going Access and Regional Equity for Students (CARES) program. The program expands career and technical education dual credit courses, develops hybrid CTE and combined school enrollment models, and provides teachers with effective technology and professional development opportunities. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/news/press-releases/baldwin-announces-milwaukee-selected-as-finalist-in-new-economic-development-program-opens-door-to-up-to-50-million-investment Baldwin Announces Milwaukee Selected as Finalist in New Economic Development Program; Opens Door to Up to $50 Million Investment 2023-12-20 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate WI Tammy Baldwin B001230 www.baldwin.senate.gov baldwin https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper WISCONSIN – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) announced that Grow Milwaukee Recompete Plan has been selected as a finalist for a new economic development initiative, the Recompete Pilot Program. The Recompete Pilot Program was created under the Baldwin-supported CHIPS and Science Act to do targeted economic development in distressed communities and create and connect people to good jobs. Out of 560 applicants nationwide, Grow Milwaukee was one of only 22 organizations selected to move forward in the process, allowing them to compete for up to a $50 million economic development investment. Grow Milwaukee will also receive a $500,000 Strategy Development Grant to further develop their plan. Grow Milwaukee's focus will be centered on the 30th Street Industrial Corridor, an area with a history of segregation and business exodus that has stunted economic prosperity in the surrounding area. “I voted for the CHIPS and Science Act to bring home manufacturing jobs and open the door to economic opportunity for Wisconsin families,” said Senator Baldwin. “I am thrilled that Milwaukee has been selected for this program, putting us on the path to connect more people with good-paying jobs, grow our Made in Wisconsin economy, and ensure that no community is left behind.” Grow Milwaukee is a consortium of Milwaukee organizations including Northwest Side Community Development Corporation, the Milwaukee Bucks, Rockwell Automation, Jonco Industries, WRTP Big Step, City of Milwaukee, and Milwaukee County that is aiming to support business growth, revitalize vacant and underutilized sites, expand small businesses, and create workforce pathways to quality jobs, including union, trades, and advanced manufacturing positions. Senator Baldwin advocated to the Biden administration for Grow Milwaukee’s application earlier this year. The Strategy Development Grant for $500,000 can be used to hire experts, build and strengthen partnerships, conduct studies, pilot strategies, and more. This Recompete Pilot Program targets areas where… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/news/press-releases/baldwin-brings-home-over-15-million-for-rhinelander-oneida-county-airport-upgrades Baldwin Brings Home Over $1.5 Million for Rhinelander-Oneida County Airport Upgrades 2023-12-20 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate WI Tammy Baldwin B001230 www.baldwin.senate.gov baldwin https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin announced that the Rhinelander-Oneida County Airport is receiving over $1.5 million through the Baldwin-backed Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to make necessary upgrades to improve safety and increase efficiency for travelers. “Wisconsin relies on our regional airports to connect travelers, commuters, and businesses to destinations around the world,” said Senator Baldwin. “I’m proud that my Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is making this investment to help keep our Made in Wisconsin economy moving forward and travelers in Northern Wisconsin safe for years to come.” The investment comes through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Airport Infrastructure Grant (AIG) program, which is making a $15 billion investment over five years nationwide to upgrade runways, taxiways, safety and sustainability projects, as well as terminal, airport-transit connections and roadway projects. In just the first three years of the program, Wisconsin airports have received over $117 million in AIG grants. The $1.5 million grant for the County of Oneida and City of Rhinelander will be used to improve 15,000 square feet of the airport's existing runway to address drainage issues, install new lighting on runways, and upgrade existing signage and navigation aids that provide pilots with critical airfield information, including an airport beacon that has reached the end of its useful life. “On behalf of the Rhinelander-Oneida County Airport Commission and its regional sponsors, we extend our gratitude to Senator Baldwin for her continued support of our facility. Funding for this comprehensive project will go toward supplanting much of our airport’s 45-year-old physical infrastructure,” said Matthew J. Leitner, Airport Director at Rhinelander-Oneida County Airport. “This will enhance our airport’s operational capabilities and further increase the economic contribution it makes to our region, which is already over $40,000,000 annually.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-calls-for-justice-thomass-recusal-in-trump-january-6th-case Blumenthal Calls for Justice Thomas's Recusal in Trump January 6th Case 2023-12-20 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, called on Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts to ensure Justice Clarence Thomas recuses himself in proceedings in United States v. Trump given his wife Ginni Thomas’s efforts to overturn the 2020 election. Blumenthal’s letter comes as the Supreme Court considers special counsel’s request to rule on former President Trump’s immunity in the January 6th case and as Trump has been requested to respond to the Court on an expedited basis. “I urge you to ensure that Justice Thomas abides by federal statute and the Court’s own Code of Conduct and recuses himself from participating in United States v. Trump,” wrote Blumenthal, citing Eastman v. Thompson as an example of a previous instance in which Justice Thomas had rightly recused himself and calling on Thomas to provide an explanation if he does not recuse himself in this case. “No proceeding could be graver than the prosecution of an attempt to undermine our sacred electoral process,” Blumenthal stressed. “Justice will be done only if such a case is heard by judges whose impartiality cannot reasonably be questioned.” The full text of the letter can be found here and below. December 20, 2023 The Honorable John G. Roberts, Jr. Chief Justice Supreme Court of the United States 1 First Street NE Washington, DC 20543 Dear Chief Justice Roberts: The Supreme Court is currently weighing whether to decide a critical question in United States v. Trump, a criminal case arising from former President Trump’s role in the January 6th insurrection. Last week, the United States urged the Court to fast-track its consideration of “a fundamental question at the heart of our democracy”: whether former President Trump is immune from charges of conspiring to obstruct the certification of the 2020 electoral vote and overturn the results of the election.[1] The Court has asked former President Trump to respond on an expedited basis—by today at 4:00 PM. I write to urge you t… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-introduces-resolution-commemorating-50-years-of-the-endangered-species-act Booker Introduces Resolution Commemorating 50 Years of the Endangered Species Act 2023-12-20 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate NJ Cory A. Booker B001288 www.booker.senate.gov booker https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) introduced a resolution celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Endangered Species Act (ESA), reaffirming the role this legislation has played in safeguarding global biodiversity. The resolution not only commemorates the invaluable achievements of the ESA over the last five decades, but also underscores the unprecedented threat of the current global extinction crisis and therefore the continued importance of protecting the ESA. Enacted in 1973, the Endangered Species Act has been a cornerstone of environmental protection efforts, responsible for rescuing 99 percent of wildlife under its shield from the brink of extinction. Now, 50 years later, our world’s wildlife is again at a critical juncture. As a result of human impacts on the environment, we are facing a global mass extinction crisis on par with the events that drove dinosaurs to extinction 65 million years ago. Species today are going extinct thousands of times faster than natural extinction rates, with scientists estimating more than one in six species are at risk of extinction within our lifetime. “From the iconic humpback whale to the majestic grizzly bear and the emblematic bald eagle, the ESA has been instrumental in preserving diverse ecosystems and ensuring the survival of numerous species,” said Senator Booker. “As our planet confronts a biodiversity crisis of monumental proportions, we must reinforce legislative efforts to preserve wildlife and counter partisan attacks that threaten the safety of our country’s rich ecosystem.” The resolution notes the Endangered Species Act is one of the most successful conservation laws ever enacted by any country, with four out of five U.S. citizens in favor of it. With nearly half of all ecosystems in the United States at risk of total collapse, expanding protections for endangered species is crucial to saving our nation’s treasures. Last month, Co-Chairs of the Endangered Species Act Caucus, Reps. Don Beyer (D-VA-08), Raul M. Grijalva (D-AZ-07) and D… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-hassan-recognizes-paige-youschak-thompson-of-laconia-as-decembers-granite-stater-of-the-month Senator Hassan Recognizes Paige Youschak-Thompson of Laconia as December’s Granite Stater of the Month 2023-12-20 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate NH Margaret Wood Hassan H001076 www.hassan.senate.gov hassan https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan recognized Paige Youschak-Thompson of Laconia as December’s Granite Stater of the Month. Paige is known around the Lakes Region for her dedication to volunteer work and bettering the community. She began regularly volunteering while her daughter was in school and now that her daughter is an adult, Paige volunteers five days a week, putting in more than 40 hours a week. Being able to help the community brings Paige great joy, and she plans to continue volunteering for as long as she can. Paige showcases the Granite State spirit of giving every day of the year. Senator Hassan launched the “Granite Stater of the Month” initiative in 2017 to recognize outstanding New Hampshire citizens who go above and beyond to help their neighbors and make their communities stronger. To read Senator Hassan’s statement for the Congressional Record, see below. I am honored to recognize Paige Youschak-Thompson of Laconia as December’s Granite Stater of the Month. Paige is known throughout the Lakes Region for her service to different organizations. Although she has always volunteered, she became more active when her daughter was in school, and now, with her daughter an adult, volunteering has become the equivalent of a full-time job. Paige volunteers five days a week for more than 40 hours a week. Paige will never say no when someone asks for her help. Although she does not have a favorite cause or organization, The Saint Vincent de Paul Society, a local thrift shop, has a special place in her heart since it is where she first started to consistently volunteer. In addition, Paige is especially fond of helping kids in the community, and believes in giving all children a chance, regardless of their income level. She worked with a local boutique to help provide free prom dresses to girls who may otherwise not be able to have one. Paige is also the chair of the community engagement committee for the Greater Lakes Region Children’s Auction, which helps local children and families in need – it ha… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/shaheen-hassan-join-warren-group-of-democratic-senators-to-introduce-resolution-affirming-support-for-fdas-scientific-judgment-that-medication-abortion-is-safe-and-effective Shaheen, Hassan Join Warren, Group of Democratic Senators to Introduce Resolution Affirming Support for FDA’s Scientific Judgment That Medication Abortion Is Safe and Effective 2023-12-20 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate NH Margaret Wood Hassan H001076 www.hassan.senate.gov hassan https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper (Washington, DC) – U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) joined a group of Democratic U.S. Senators led by U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) to introduce a resolution in support of equitable, science-based policies governing access to medication abortion. This action comes as Americans continue to grapple with the reversal of Roe v. Wade and follows last week’s announcement that the Supreme Court will hear a challenge to medication abortion access. “Limiting access to mifepristone would deal yet another blow to women’s reproductive freedom and bodily autonomy. The opinions of GOP lawmakers and extreme jurists have no place in dictating women’s ability to access the reproductive care they need,” said Senator Shaheen. “I’m proud to join this resolution that emphasizes the importance of maintaining and protecting women’s fundamental right to make decisions about their own reproductive health care.” “Across the country, women are grappling with the very personal impacts of the attacks on a woman’s fundamental freedom by anti-choice extremists,” said Senator Hassan. “Science has shown that mifepristone is safe and effective, and I am proud to join my colleagues in standing up for a woman’s fundamental freedom and making clear that access to this often life-saving medication must remain available.” Since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, reproductive rights have been increasingly under attack, with more than a dozen states banning or restricting access to abortion care, and anti-abortion extremists attempting to ban medication abortion nationwide. Medication abortion is currently used for over half of all abortions. “I am fed up with extremists trying to turn back the clock and deny women reproductive health care – especially after decades of science that show that medication abortion is safe and effective. Any threat to the accessibility of this drug would be devastating to both health care providers and patients across the country, and Senate Democrats … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/hirono-colleagues-push-to-lower-prescription-drug-costs Hirono, Colleagues Push to Lower Prescription Drug Costs 2023-12-20 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate HI Mazie K. Hirono H001042 www.hirono.senate.gov hirono https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI) joined Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA), Roger Marshall (R-KS), and 16 other colleagues in sending a letter urging the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the Department of Labor (DOL), and the Department of the Treasury to lower out-of-pocket costs for prescription drugs by enforcing a rule limiting the use of harmful “copay accumulators.” Copay accumulators prevent copay assistance from counting towards a patient’s deductible or out-of-pocket maximum, which makes it harder for patients to afford their medications. Regarding a recent court ruling limiting the use of copay accumulators, the members said, “This decision is an important step in the right direction for low-income and other eligible patients who rely on manufacturer and nonprofit copay assistance programs to alleviate affordability and access challenges for their medicines.” “Instead of appealing the court’s ruling, we urge you to adopt policies from the 2020 NBPP [Notice of Benefit and Payment Parameters] that strike the right balance of preserving a plan’s ability to control costs while also putting the patient first,” the lawmakers wrote. In the letter, the senators also push for their Help Ensure Lower Patient (HELP) Copays Act to permanently prohibit the use of copay accumulators and require health plans and Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) to count the value of copay assistance towards a patient’s deductible or out-of-pocket maximum. In addition to Senators Hirono, Kaine, and Marshall, the letter is signed by Senators Joni Ernst (R-IA), Ed Markey (D-MA), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Ted Budd (R-NC), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Chris Coons (D-DE), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), John Boozman (R-AR), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Susan Collins (R-ME), and Kyrsten Sinema (I-AZ). The full text of the letter is available below and here. Dear Secretary Becerra, Acting Secretary Su, and Secretary Y… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-and-marshall-lead-colleagues-in-bipartisan-push-to-lower-prescription-drug-costs Kaine & Marshall Lead Colleagues in Bipartisan Push to Lower Prescription Drug Costs 2023-12-20 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate VA Tim Kaine K000384 www.kaine.senate.gov kaine https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Tim Kaine (D-VA) and Roger Marshall (R-KS), members of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, led a bipartisan group of their colleagues in a letter urging the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the Department of Labor (DOL), and the Department of the Treasury to lower out-of-pocket costs for prescription drugs by enforcing a rule limiting the use of harmful “copay accumulators.” Copay accumulators prevent copay assistance from counting towards a patient’s deductible or out-of-pocket maximum, which makes it harder for patients to afford their medications. Virginia is one of 19 states that have banned copay accumulator programs, and this push would expand Virginia’s progress nationwide. Regarding a recent court ruling limiting the use of copay accumulators, the members said, “This decision is an important step in the right direction for low-income and other eligible patients who rely on manufacturer and nonprofit copay assistance programs to alleviate affordability and access challenges for their medicines.” The lawmakers wrote, “Instead of appealing the court’s ruling, we urge you to adopt policies from the 2020 NBPP [Notice of Benefit and Payment Parameters] that strike the right balance of preserving a plan’s ability to control costs while also putting the patient first.” In the letter, the senators also push for their Help Ensure Lower Patient (HELP) Copays Act to permanently prohibit the use of copay accumulators and require health plans and Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) to count the value of copay assistance towards a patient’s deductible or out-of-pocket maximum. In addition to Kaine and Marshall, the letter is signed by Senators Joni Ernst (R-IA), Ed Markey (D-MA), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Ted Budd (R-NC), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Thom Tillis (R-NC), Chris Coons (D-DE), Mike Rounds (R-SD), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), John Boozman (R-AR), Jeanne Shahe… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/video-kaine-highlights-2023-accomplishments-work-ahead-in-2024 VIDEO: Kaine Highlights 2023 Accomplishments, Work Ahead in 2024 2023-12-20 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate VA Tim Kaine K000384 www.kaine.senate.gov kaine https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news scraper VIDEO AVAILABLE HERE WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tim Kaine released the following video celebrating this year’s accomplishments and looking ahead to 2024. In the video, Kaine discussed his travel across the Commonwealth to see how legislation he helped pass, like the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, CHIPS and Science Act, and Inflation Reduction Act, is benefiting Virginians. He also highlighted that there’s more to do and that he’ll continue working to support communities across Virginia in the Senate in the new year. “As I've traveled around the state and been in so many communities in Virginia, it's been good to celebrate moving forward on some important progress,” said Kaine. “The combination of the infrastructure bill and our chips manufacturing bill and the Inflation Reduction Act has meant that I've been able to do significant announcements of key projects in virtually every corner of Virginia.” Kaine concluded, “Our strength is fundamentally the strength of our people, the strength of our investments, and the strength of our alliances. And whether that's right in Virginia or around the world, I'll keep promoting those strengths to keep America and Virginia moving forward.” During the video, Kaine discussed some of this year’s accomplishments, including: On the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law: So far, Virginia has received $8.4 billion in infrastructure law funding, including for over 247 projects. Kaine specifically mentioned a recent $729 million grant he secured for Transforming Rail in Virginia (TRV) Phase 2 projects, which will help alleviate current bottlenecks, promote economic growth, expand capacity, and improve reliability for Virginia commuters, travelers, and freight. On the Inflation Reduction Act: The Inflation Reduction Act took historic steps to lower health care and energy costs, including a $35 cap per month on insulin for Americans with Medicare, including 36,461 Virginians. Kaine talked about how this cap is saving seniors money. The cap took effect on January 1, 2023. On … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-braun-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-conduct-a-new-review-of-currently-approved-opioids Murphy, Braun Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Conduct a New Review of Currently Approved Opioids 2023-12-20 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Mike Braun (R-Ind.), both members of the U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, on Wednesday introduced bipartisan legislation directing the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to establish a plan to review all currently approved opioid medications. The Opioid Review Act would require the FDA to consider information that was not available when the drugs were first approved, such as addiction and overdose rates, and to publish a public report detailing next steps. “The United States is five percent of the world’s population, and yet we account for between 70 and 80 percent of the world’s opioid prescriptions. In the years since these drugs were first approved by the FDA, we’ve learned just how addictive they are and far too many families have paid the price. Taking a hard look at whether the current guidance needs updating is one way we can begin to tackle this crisis. I’m glad our bipartisan bill was included in this year’s SUPPORT Act reauthorization, and I’ll keep pushing to ensure it lands on President Biden’s desk,” said Murphy. “Drug overdose deaths continue to rise in the United States and we urgently need to take action to stop these devastating and preventable deaths. The bipartisan Opioid Review Act would direct the FDA to review approved opioids while considering important public health implications, like addiction and overdose rates,” said Braun. Specifically, FDA’s report must be published online and must include: Public comment on the FDA’s regulation of opioid drugs An explanation of the actions the FDA has already taken to review the effectiveness, safety, benefit-risk profile, and use of approved opioid analgesic drugs A timeline for an assessment of the potential need for changes in an opioid drugs’ labeling, revised or additional post marketing requirements, enforcement actions, or withdrawals from market An overview of the steps that the FDA has taken to support the development and approval of non-addictive medical… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/michigan-delegation-members-urge-air-force-to-select-selfridge-air-national-guard-base-for-kc-46-tankers Michigan Delegation Members Urge Air Force to Select Selfridge Air National Guard Base for KC-46 Tankers 2023-12-20 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate MI Gary C. Peters P000595 www.peters.senate.gov garypeters https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI) and Debbie Stabenow (D-MI), Governor Gretchen Whitmer (D-MI), and U.S. Representatives John James (R-MI-10), Elissa Slotkin (D-MI-07), Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06), Lisa McClain (R-MI-09), Haley Stevens (D-MI-11), John Moolenaar (R-MI-02), Hillary Scholten (D-MI-03), Jack Bergman (R-MI-01), Dan Kildee (D-MI-08), Shri Thanedar (D-MI-13), Bill Huizenga (R-MI-4), and Tim Walberg (R-MI-05) are urging U.S. Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall to select Selfridge Air National Guard Base in Macomb County to host a new squadron of KC-46A refueling tankers. The letter to Secretary Kendall highlights Selfridge’s unique capability to host these tankers while reiterating the Michigan congressional delegation’s commitment to ensuring Selfridge is also selected to host a new, long-term fighter jet mission. This comes after the Air Force identified Selfridge as “an indispensable source of tanker capacity for our national security” in a letter to Peters and Stabenow in 2021. “The Michigan Congressional Delegation expresses our strong belief that Selfridge is the ideal location for a squadron of KC-46A refueling tankers and a recapitalization of the A-10 squadron into an advanced fighter,” the letter stated. “With this in mind, we urge the Air Force to base a squadron of twelve KC-46s at Selfridge in addition to a future replacement fighter mission due to its strong operational track record, exceptional personnel, and strategic location.” “We know Selfridge’s advantages, its exceptional operational track record, and the 127th Wing’s outstanding personnel make Selfridge an ideal candidate for a squadron of KC-46s and a future fighter mission,” the letter continued. “Our delegation and state are totally dedicated to fighting for Selfridge with Governor Whitmer’s proposed $100 million investment in base and runway improvements a tangible example of this commitment. We look forward to working closely with you and your office to ensure Michigan continues to be a value add to the Total Force… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-unanimously-passes-senator-peters-bipartisan-legislation-to-help-combat-human-rights-abuses Senate Unanimously Passes Senator Peters’ Bipartisan Legislation to Help Combat Human Rights Abuses 2023-12-20 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate MI Gary C. Peters P000595 www.peters.senate.gov garypeters https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, DC – The U.S. Senate has unanimously passed U.S. Senator Gary Peters’ (MI) bipartisan legislation to help American businesses combat human rights abuses. Senator Peters’ Combating Human Rights Abuses Act – which he reintroduced with U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) – would direct the U.S. Department of Commerce to help educate American exporters that are, or are considering, exporting goods in partnership with businesses in the People’s Republic of China where forced labor and significant human rights abuses have occurred. The bill would also direct the Commerce Department to offer guidance to exporters to help them avoid doing business with Chinese entities that may be implicated in forced labor or human rights violations. “Human rights abuses like those committed in China must be condemned,” said Senator Peters. “I’m proud the Senate has unanimously passed this bipartisan legislation to provide American businesses with the information and transparency they need to avoid business dealings with entities in China that may be involved in forced labor or other atrocities.” The legislation has earned the support of the Uyghur Human Rights Project and the American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFL-CIO). “There is no room for half-measures to stop corporate complicity in the atrocity crimes against Uyghurs,” said Omer Kanat, Executive Director of the Uyghur Human Rights Project. “UHRP strongly endorses this Congressional action. It’s past time to end profits tied to entities that are using Uyghur forced labor, and tech companies that provide the 24-7 surveillance state enforcing the ongoing genocide of the Uyghur people.” The government of the People’s Republic of China has perpetrated egregious human rights abuses—including in Tibet and in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region—against Uyghurs and other ethnic and religious minority groups. The Chinese government’s actions have encompassed mass detention in internment camps, the use of forced labor, cultural cleansing,… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/after-reed-delivers-federal-funding-east-providence-families-in-flood-prone-properties-begin-to-get-their-voluntary-home-buyouts After Reed Delivers Federal Funding, East Providence Families in Flood Prone Properties Begin to Get Their Voluntary Home Buyouts 2023-12-20 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate RI Jack Reed R000122 www.reed.senate.gov jackreed https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases scraper EAST PROVIDENCE, RI – Today, U.S. Senator Jack Reed commended the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), Rhode Island Association of Conservation Districts (RIACD), and East Providence Mayor Bob DaSilva and his staff for teaming up to help residents relocate out of flood prone areas. Last year, Senator Reed helped deliver critical federal funds to buyout flood prone properties and deliver relief for homeowners who suffered from repetitive flooding. Now, owners of chronically flooded properties are closing on real estate deals with the federal government, meaning fewer homes will be flooded during future storms. Reed, a member of the Appropriations Committee, secured up to $9.65 million in federal funding for voluntary property buyouts for eligible homeowners along Marsh Street and around the State Street neighborhood, which includes Abbott Street, Luther Avenue, Julien Avenue, and Humphrey Street. The federal funding comes from USDA’s NRCS Emergency Watershed Protection-Floodplain Easements (EWP-FPE) program. NRCS, RIACD, and East Providence officials have worked for months to assist homeowners with the buyout process. In November of this year, eleven houses and one vacant lot were purchased for a total of $4,297,460. Two more houses and four vacant lots are scheduled to close in early February of 2024. The costs for these closings will be approximately $1 million. This includes the purchase price for the properties, plus legal fees and relocation funds for homeowners and renters. As the lead agency, NRCS must complete a thorough technical review for each eligible property. Once approved, NRCS purchases easements (the rights to the properties) to restore floodplain functions. The City of East Providence will hold the property titles (remaining interest in the property). “These closings are welcome news for vulnerable property owners and will help the community enhance natural storm protection. These closings mean that families who wanted to relocate were able… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-helps-pass-short-term-faa-reauthorization Reed Helps Pass Short-term FAA Reauthorization 2023-12-20 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate RI Jack Reed R000122 www.reed.senate.gov jackreed https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases scraper WASHINGTON, DC – In an effort to bolster air safety and prevent travel disruptions during the busy holiday season, the U.S. Senate approved a short-term reauthorization of Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) financing and fee-collection authorities late last night. The temporary extension was needed or these FAA authorized would have expired on December 31. U.S. Senator Jack Reed, a senior member of the Appropriations subcommittee that oversees FAA funding, supported the three-month extension, which extends the FAA’s authority out to March 8, 2024. “This is a needed short-term fix. I am committed to working on a comprehensive, multi-year FAA reauthorization that enhances aviation safety, improves airline service, and provides better consumer protections for passengers,” said Senator Reed. “U.S. airports and airlines have seen substantial growth, and we must ensure we continue to invest in the technology, facilities, and infrastructure to handle it.” The U.S. House of Representatives approved the short-term FAA reauthorization bill earlier this month, so it now goes to President Biden to be signed into law. The FAA's current authorization dates back to 2018, when the most recent long-term reauthorization bill was passed. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases/schatz-hawaii-to-receive-nearly-4-million-in-additional-federal-disaster-aid-to-support-mauis-recovery-from-fires Schatz: Hawai‘i To Receive Nearly $4 Million In Additional Federal Disaster Aid To Support Maui’s Recovery From Fires 2023-12-20 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate HI Brian Schatz S001194 www.schatz.senate.gov schatz https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) announced that Hawai‘i will receive $3.9 million in new federal funding from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to support the ongoing recovery effort on Maui following the fires in August. The funding, which comes from the Disaster Relief Fund which Congress replenished in September following calls from Schatz and others, will support staff who have been working on the emergency response effort. “The federal government continues to support Maui in every step of the recovery process,” said Senator Schatz. “We’ll keep doing everything we can to make sure the people of Lahaina have what they need to get back on their feet.” Working closely with the Biden Administration and congressional leaders, Schatz has led efforts to bring federal resources to Maui. To date, Hawai‘i has received more than $412 million in federal funding for the response to the fires, including more than $300 million in direct assistance to survivors from FEMA and the Small Business Administration. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/icymi-senators-shaheen-collins-discuss-bipartisan-efforts-to-lower-the-cost-of-insulin ICYMI: Senators Shaheen, Collins Discuss Bipartisan Efforts to Lower the Cost of Insulin 2023-12-20 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate NH Jeanne Shaheen S001181 www.shaheen.senate.gov shaheen https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press scraper (Washington, DC) –U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Susan Collins (R-ME) spoke with the Washington Post’s Health 202 Newsletter to discuss their bipartisan INSULIN Act as part of their recent efforts to lower the cost of insulin. As co-chairs of the Senate Diabetes Caucus, Shaheen and Collins have led action in the U.S. Senate to advance priorities that will lower the costs of insulin, invest in treatment and prioritize diabetes research. Recently, the Senators penned a joint op-ed about the importance of lowering the cost of insulin. The Senators have worked to increase awareness of the threats posed by diabetes, invest in research and improve access to treatment options. They have consistently held insulin manufacturers, insurers and pharmacy benefit managers accountable for the skyrocketing cost of life-saving insulin. Earlier this year, Shaheen and Collins commended drug manufacturers Lilly, Novo Nordisk and Sanofi’s actions to lower their list prices for their insulin products. Full text of the story can be found here and below: Sens. Shaheen and Collins explain their work on insulin affordability A growing share of the more than 7 million Americans with diabetes is enjoying lower out-of-pocket costs for insulin as states, Medicare and drug companies have moved to cap prices. But some senators are pushing to address sky-high insulin costs for patients who continue to fall through the cracks. Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) introduced legislation earlier this year alongside Sen. Susan Collins (R-Maine), who plans to tout it at today’s Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee hearing on the diabetes epidemic. Among other provisions, their bill would extend Medicare’s $35-per-month cap on insulin prices to individuals with private insurance, rein in the business practices of prescription drug middlemen and make it easier for new generic and biosimilar drugs to enter the market. I caught up with the longtime co-chairs of the Senate Diabetes Caucus over the phone yesterday about their appr… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-hassan-join-warren-group-of-democratic-senators-to-introduce-resolution-affirming-support-for-fdas-scientific-judgment-that-medication-abortion-is-safe-and-effective Shaheen, Hassan Join Warren, Group of Democratic Senators to Introduce Resolution Affirming Support for FDA’s Scientific Judgment That Medication Abortion Is Safe and Effective 2023-12-20 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate NH Jeanne Shaheen S001181 www.shaheen.senate.gov shaheen https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press scraper (Washington, DC) – U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) joined a group of Democratic U.S. Senators led by U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) to introduce a resolution in support of equitable, science-based policies governing access to medication abortion. This action comes as Americans continue to grapple with the reversal of Roe v. Wade and follows last week’s announcement that the Supreme Court will hear a challenge to medication abortion access. “Limiting access to mifepristone would deal yet another blow to women’s reproductive freedom and bodily autonomy. The opinions of GOP lawmakers and extreme jurists have no place in dictating women’s ability to access the reproductive care they need,” said Senator Shaheen. “I’m proud to join this resolution that emphasizes the importance of maintaining and protecting women’s fundamental right to make decisions about their own reproductive health care.” “Across the country, women are grappling with the very personal impacts of the attacks on a woman’s fundamental freedom by anti-choice extremists,” said Senator Hassan. “Science has shown that mifepristone is safe and effective, and I am proud to join my colleagues in standing up for a woman’s fundamental freedom and making clear that access to this often life-saving medication must remain available.” Since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, reproductive rights have been increasingly under attack, with more than a dozen states banning or restricting access to abortion care, and anti-abortion extremists attempting to ban medication abortion nationwide. Medication abortion is currently used for over half of all abortions. “I am fed up with extremists trying to turn back the clock and deny women reproductive health care – especially after decades of science that show that medication abortion is safe and effective. Any threat to the accessibility of this drug would be devastating to both health care providers and patients across the country, and Senate Democrats … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-urges-department-of-agriculture-and-us-trade-representative-to-address-sugar-shortages-trade-and-supply-chain-issues-to-lower-costs-for-americans Shaheen Urges Department of Agriculture and U.S. Trade Representative to Address Sugar Shortages, Trade and Supply Chain Issues to Lower Costs for Americans 2023-12-20 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate NH Jeanne Shaheen S001181 www.shaheen.senate.gov shaheen https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press scraper (Washington, DC) - U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen, Chair of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science and Related Agencies, sent a letter to U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack and U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai to urge the agency to swiftly implement recommendations made by the Government Accountability Office (GAO) in its recent report, Sugar Program: Alternative Methods for Implementing Import Restrictions Could Increase Effectiveness. In part, Senator Shaheen wrote: “According to GAO, the U.S. sugar program is creating sugar supply shortages for domestic food production and contributing to higher costs for manufacturers, workers and American families, disproportionately affecting low-income households. […] It’s clear that the U.S. sugar program administration and the lack of any modernization—despite decades of change and growth in the America economy—is leading to sugar supply chain bottlenecks for food manufacturers and contributing to high food costs incurred by all Americans.” In its report, GAO found research suggesting the U.S. sugar program costs American consumers, on estimate, $2.5 billion to $3.5 billion each year. GAO further found significant opportunities for the U.S. Department of Agriculture and U.S. Trade Representative to reduce inefficiencies in administration of the U.S. sugar program and to make the program more effective. Shaheen concluded: “Swift implementation of these practical reforms to trade policy present a powerful opportunity to provide relief to families at the grocery store, increase domestic manufacturing, strengthen critical supply chains and continue to safeguard domestic sugar production. These are worthy and achievable goals, and I appreciate that GAO acknowledges that there are commonsense ways to move forward on this issue with broadly shared benefits for the American economy.” The letter can be read in its entirety here. Shaheen leads action in the U.S. Senate to make overdue sugar policy reform. Sugar was the only … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-cardin-mfume-announce-50-million-inflation-reduction-act-investment-for-baltimores-green-and-healthy-homes-initiative-to-fund-environmental-justice-projects-across-the-mid-atlantic Van Hollen, Cardin, Mfume Announce $50 Million Inflation Reduction Act Investment for Baltimore’s Green & Healthy Homes Initiative to Fund Environmental Justice Projects Across the Mid-Atlantic 2023-12-20 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate MD Chris Van Hollen V000128 www.vanhollen.senate.gov vanhollen https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin and Congressman Kweisi Mfume (all D-Md.) joined the Biden-Harris Administration in announcing Baltimore-based Green & Healthy Homes Initiative (GHHI) has been selected to serve as one of 11 regional grantmakers and will receive $50 million under the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grantmaking program that was created by the Inflation Reduction Act, the largest investment in climate action in history. These funds come from the $3 billion that the EPA received through the Inflation Reduction Act to award grants and fund related technical assistance to benefit disadvantaged communities. This new grant program, which will make it easier for small community-based organizations to access federal environmental justice funding, responds to community feedback about the need to reduce barriers to federal funds and improve the efficiency of the awards process to ensure communities that have long faced underinvestment can access the benefits of this historic funding. Communities will be able to apply to GHHI for a subgrant to fund a range of different environmental project activities, including small local clean ups, local emergency preparedness and disaster resiliency programs, environmental workforce development programs for local jobs reducing greenhouse gas emissions, fenceline air quality and asthma related projects, healthy homes programs, and projects addressing illegal dumping. “Through the Inflation Reduction Act, we took historic action to ensure that all communities can participate in the clean energy revolution, lower energy costs, and improve health outcomes. Green & Healthy Homes has already been a vital partner in advancing that work in Baltimore, and with this major investment, we know GHHI will make an even greater impact on our path to progress for environmental justice, energy savings, and economic opportunity,” said Senator Van Hollen. “In Maryland, we are working at every level of government to take d… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-joins-kaine-marshall-colleagues-in-bipartisan-push-to-lower-prescription-drug-costs Van Hollen Joins Kaine, Marshall, Colleagues in Bipartisan Push to Lower Prescription Drug Costs 2023-12-20 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate MD Chris Van Hollen V000128 www.vanhollen.senate.gov vanhollen https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) joined Senators Tim Kaine (D-Va.) and Roger Marshall (R-Kan.), members of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, led a bipartisan group of their colleagues in a letter urging the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the Department of Labor (DOL), and the Department of the Treasury to lower out-of-pocket costs for prescription drugs by enforcing a rule limiting the use of harmful “copay accumulators.” Copay accumulators prevent copay assistance from counting towards a patient’s deductible or out-of-pocket maximum, which makes it harder for patients to afford their medications. Regarding a recent court ruling limiting the use of copay accumulators, the members said, “This decision is an important step in the right direction for low-income and other eligible patients who rely on manufacturer and nonprofit copay assistance programs to alleviate affordability and access challenges for their medicines.” The lawmakers wrote, “Instead of appealing the court’s ruling, we urge you to adopt policies from the 2020 NBPP [Notice of Benefit and Payment Parameters] that strike the right balance of preserving a plan’s ability to control costs while also putting the patient first.” In the letter, the senators also push for their Help Ensure Lower Patient (HELP) Copays Act to permanently prohibit the use of copay accumulators and require health plans and Pharmacy Benefit Managers (PBMs) to count the value of copay assistance towards a patient’s deductible or out-of-pocket maximum. In addition Senator Van Hollen, the letter led by Senators Kaine and Marshall, is signed by Senators Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Ted Budd (R-N.C.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), John Boozman (R-Ark.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Mazie Hirono (D-Hawaii), and Kyrsten Sine… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-crapo-applaud-senate-passage-of-legislation-honoring-medal-of-honor-recipients Wyden, Crapo Applaud Senate Passage of Legislation Honoring Medal of Honor Recipients 2023-12-20 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate OR Ron Wyden W000779 www.wyden.senate.gov wyden https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper The bipartisan bill would designate the longest U.S. highway as the “National Medal of Honor Highway” Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden, D-Ore., and Mike Crapo, R-Idaho today applauded Senate passage of their bipartisan legislation designating U.S. Highway 20 between Newport, Ore. and New England as the “National Medal of Honor Highway.” "It's an honor to have worked closely with veterans in Oregon and nationwide in the grassroots movement to designate our country's longest continuous highway, stretching from the Pacific to the Atlantic, as the ‘National Medal of Honor Highway,’” Wyden said. “I’m proud that my bill to officially recognize U.S. Highway 20 as the ‘National Medal of Honor Highway’ has passed the Senate. This bill is more than a symbolic gesture—it's a timeless tribute to the heroes of America. I am steadfast in my commitment to relentlessly champion this cause alongside our veterans, and I’ll keep fighting tooth and nail to get this bill signed into law.” “The Medal of Honor represents the determination and courage of those who acted far beyond the call of duty. I look forward to the enactment of law cementing this national designation to honor each of them across these 400 miles,” Crapo said. The Medal of Honor is the nation’s highest military award for valor, presented by the president in Congress’ name. U.S. service members who distinguish themselves “through conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life above and beyond the call of duty” can receive the medal. Redesignating U.S. Highway 20— the longest continuous highway in the United States— as the “National Medal of Honor Highway” would honor each state’s current and future Medal of Honor recipients and recipients from any state who travel on it. Legislatures and governors in all 12 states along U.S. Highway 20 have designated their state Medal of Honor Highways covering 100 percent of the 3,365-mile Medal of Honor Highway across America. The 12 states along U.S. Highway 20 account for about 62 percent of all 3,516 M… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-bonamici-salinas-colleagues-call-for-expanded-funding-for-community-health-centers Wyden, Merkley, Bonamici, Salinas, Colleagues call for Expanded Funding for Community Health Centers 2023-12-20 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate OR Ron Wyden W000779 www.wyden.senate.gov wyden https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. – Oregon U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley, along with U.S. Representatives Suzanne Bonamici and Andrea Salinas, joined bipartisan colleagues today to urge the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) to provide more access to federal resources for community healthcare centers. Currently, there are 136 Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) Look-Alikes in Oregon and across the nation that provide services to over 1 million patients, but still don’t receive federal resources they should be eligible for. FQHC Look-Alikes are organizations that meet all of the eligibility requirements of an FQHC that receives a Public Health Service Section 330 grant, but do not receive grant funding. “These community-based health care providers are already serving populations that may not otherwise be able to access care, and hope to expand the reach of their services to more people,” the legislators said. “HRSA should be leveraging the network of existing FQHC Look-Alikes. By prioritizing Look-Alikes that already comply with Health Center Program requirements over brand new sites, HRSA will ensure that federal dollars are being allocated to health centers with a proven track record of success that hope to expand the universe of patients they can serve and expand the care they are able to offer.” The letter was led by Senator Wyden and U.S. Representative Joe Morelle (D-N.Y.). Along with Wyden, Merkley, Bonamici and Salinas, the letter also was co-signed in the Senate by the U.S. Senators Bob Casey (D-Pa.), Angus King (I-Maine), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) and in the House by Representatives Ken Calvert (R-Calif), Josh Harder (D-Calif.), Mike Kelly (R-Pa.), Young Kim (R-Calif.) and Katie Porter (D-Calif). 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/news/press-releases/baldwin-delivers-27-million-to-help-grow-wisconsins-agricultural-businesses Baldwin Delivers $27 Million to Help Grow Wisconsin’s Agricultural Businesses 2023-12-19 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate WI Tammy Baldwin B001230 www.baldwin.senate.gov baldwin https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) announced a new partnership between Wisconsin and the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to strengthen the Badger State’s food supply through the Baldwin-backed American Rescue Plan. Through this agreement, USDA and the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) will offer $27 million in grant funding for projects designed to build resilience across the food supply chain. “Our farmers and producers feed the world and are the economic engines that drive many of our rural economies – but many face roadblocks to increasing capacity and getting their products to consumers. Whether it's lowering processing costs or improving access to local grocery stores, this partnership will help our farmers tackle these problems, strengthen our food supply chains, and create economic opportunity for our farmers,” said Senator Baldwin. “I am proud to bring home this investment for Wisconsin to ensure our farmers have the tools they need to grow their businesses and reach new markets.” “Wisconsin’s agricultural industry is core to our culture, heritage, and economy, and thanks to Senator Baldwin’s advocacy at the federal level, we’ve been able to direct more than $100 million in federal funds to support farmers across the state and invest in bolstering our food processors so they can increase capacity and get more of their product to market,” said Governor Evers. “The announcement of this new cooperative agreement between USDA and DATCP will only build upon those efforts, strengthening our local food supply chains, supporting our rural communities, and keeping food on our grocery store shelves and our tables.” The partnership will fund projects that expand processing capacities, increase food storage space, reduce energy use, increase commercial kitchen space, improve aggregation and distribution, improve marketing and branding, and increase access to value-added markets for small farms. This will ultimately create more diverse local an… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-baldwins-law-to-support-made-in-america-freight-railcars-on-track-to-implementation Senator Baldwin’s Law to Support Made in America Freight Railcars on Track to Implementation 2023-12-19 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate WI Tammy Baldwin B001230 www.baldwin.senate.gov baldwin https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) announced that her bipartisan legislation to support Made in America freight railcars is going into effect, safeguarding our national security against state-owned companies in countries like China. Senator Baldwin introduced Stopping America’s Foreign Enemies Through Rail and Infrastructure National Security Act (SAFE TRAINS Act) with Senator John Cornyn (R-TX) and successfully added it as an amendment to the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act in 2021. “Investing in American manufacturing has always been a win-win for American taxpayers, businesses, and workers, but when it comes to freight rail, ensuring our railcars are not manufactured in China is also a national security imperative. Our economy depends on freight rail to transport goods and get products to market, and it’s critical the U.S. does not rely on China for this crucial mode of transportation,” said Senator Baldwin. "I’m proud my bipartisan legislation to safeguard our rail supply chains is going into effect, supporting American manufacturing, and helping ensure Made in Wisconsin businesses have safe, reliable rail service for years to come.” The SAFE TRAINS Act of 2021 prohibits railroad freight cars from operating on the U.S. freight railroad interchange system if the cars are manufactured in or use sensitive technologies from a country of concern or an affiliated state-owned enterprise. Countries of concern include nonmarket economies, those that inadequately protect intellectual property rights, and violators of certain foreign trade practices and agreements. Last week, the Federal Rail Administration (FRA) took the first steps to implement Senator Baldwin’s legislation, proposing a rule to place restrictions on newly built freight cars placed into service in the United States. "The Railway Supply Institute strongly supports protecting the freight rolling stock supply chain from bad actors and unfair competition. We applaud the FRA for its work to ensure our freight rail network… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/permanent-subcommittee-on-investigations-demands-swift-response-to-inquiry-into-sexual-assault-and-sexual-harassment-at-the-coast-guard-academy Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations Demands Swift Response to Inquiry Into Sexual Assault & Sexual Harassment at the Coast Guard Academy 2023-12-19 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [WASHINGTON, DC] – Today, U.S. Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations (PSI) Chairman Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Ranking Member Ron Johnson (R-WI) demanded that the Coast Guard immediately provide all records responsive to PSI’s probe into sexual assault and harassment at the Coast Guard Academy. This letter follows PSI’s hearing last week with current and former Coast Guard Academy cadets, who experienced sexual assault, sexual harassment, or retaliation at the Academy and in the Coast Guard. “It is clear from this testimony, and the Subcommittee’s inquiry to date, that the Coast Guard’s culture of cover-up has allowed sexual assault and sexual harassment to persist for decades, both at the Academy and in the Coast Guard,” wrote Blumenthal and Johnson in a letter to Coast Guard Commandant Linda Fagan. “It is equally apparent that accountability and systematic change at both the Coast Guard and the Academy are necessary to address past failures and to ensure that future cadets are protected. Full compliance with the Subcommittee’s inquiry is a necessary component of these actions.” “You have expressed a commitment to investigate reports of sexual assault and sexual harassment, hold perpetrators accountable, support victims, and be fully transparent with Congress and the American people. It is imperative that you live up to that commitment and ensure that the Coast Guard provides all requested documents and information to the Subcommittee without further delay,” continued the senators. “Should the Coast Guard continue to withhold or redact requested records, PSI will have no choice but to utilize other means to ensure compliance with congressional oversight.” In September 2023, PSI opened a bipartisan inquiry into the Coast Guard Academy’s mishandling of sexual assault investigations and its failure to reveal Operation Fouled Anchor, and its associated report, to Congress or the public. The full text of the senators’ initial letter to the Coast Guard is available here. The full text of today’s lette… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-lynch-introduce-bicameral-bill-to-help-students-earn-their-ged Booker, Lynch Introduce Bicameral Bill to Help Students Earn their GED 2023-12-19 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate NJ Cory A. Booker B001288 www.booker.senate.gov booker https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) and U.S. Representative Stephen F. Lynch (D-MA-08) introduced the Reengage the Workforce Act, bicameral legislation which would provide federal grants to organizations that work with students who did not complete high school to help them earn their GED and offer additional workforce training and career support programs. The grants would be created within the Department of Labor, in consultation with the Department of Education, to help facilitate the advancement of education through in-person or virtual programs alongside any necessary support services. “For the tens of millions of Americans across the country without a high school diploma, the American dream is becoming increasingly out of reach,” said Senator Booker. Everyone deserves the chance to succeed, which is why I am introducing legislation to help people reconnect with educational opportunities and meaningful career paths. By providing more opportunities for those who are not in school or in the workforce to get back in, we can ensure more people have the tools to build brighter, more promising tomorrows for themselves, their families, and their communities.” “It is important we are proactive in reengaging students who have not been able to complete high school and help them obtain the qualifications that will make it easier to join the workforce and support themselves in future,” said Representative Lynch. “While the number of students who did not complete high school has fallen in the past decade, the percent of those students that are not in the labor force has increased. This bill will help enable organizations, like the Boston Public Schools Re-engagement Center, better assist those students by allowing them to reenter secondary school with support services, such as transportation or childcare, or enroll in flexible courses to earn their GED.” According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, individuals who did not finish high school make up the highest percentage of unemployed people in the c… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-statement-on-eve-of-elections-in-the-democratic-republic-of-the-congo Booker Statement on Eve of Elections in the Democratic Republic of the Congo 2023-12-19 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate NJ Cory A. Booker B001288 www.booker.senate.gov booker https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on Africa and Global Health Policy, issued the following statement: “As the Congolese people head to the polls, it’s imperative that officials in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) respect the democratic process, ensure unimpeded access for election observers, provide a timely and transparent tabulation of votes, publish comprehensive data on election results, and refrain from promoting destabilizing rhetoric or actions that could incite violence or undermine the credibility of the electoral process. “I recognize efforts by the Independent National Electoral Commission (CENI) to overcome significant logistical and technical challenges in organizing these elections and have been monitoring ongoing concerns related to voter cards and registration. During this next stage of the electoral process, I urge the CENI to commit to maximum transparency so the Congolese people can have full faith in the election results. “Furthermore, I support the Biden Administration’s stated intent to use all available tools to ensure accountability for anyone who seeks to undermine the democratic process in the DRC. “It’s critical that the Congolese people are able to exercise one of their most fundamental rights—the right to vote—and the Congolese authorities, including CENI, must work to ensure all Congolese are able to exercise this right, through a fair and transparent process.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-durbin-join-merkley-in-push-to-keep-anti-lgbtq-and-anti-abortion-provisions-out-of-critical-government-funding-bills Duckworth, Durbin Join Merkley in Push to Keep Anti-LGBTQ+ and Anti-Abortion Provisions Out of Critical Government Funding Bills 2023-12-19 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and Dick Durbin (D-IL) today joined U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Cory Booker (D-NJ) and 42 of their Senate colleagues in sending a letter to Senate Appropriations Committee Chair Patty Murray (D-WA) and Vice Chair Susan Collins (R-ME), urging them to reject any new poison pill policy riders in the fiscal year (FY) 2024 appropriations bills, including the anti-LGBTQ+ and anti-abortion policy provisions that House Republicans inserted into their appropriations bills. “The Senate has had tremendous success both passing bipartisan bills in committee and on the Senate floor because these bills are free of new poison pill riders,” the Senators wrote. “Unfortunately, the House appropriations bills are filled with new highly partisan provisions, including anti-abortion and anti-LGBTQ+ riders, that should be removed from any final appropriations bills.” These extreme, poison pill provisions riddled throughout the House appropriations bills threaten Congress’ ability to pass bipartisan funding bills that are needed to keep the government open and working for the American people. Hyper-partisan agenda items have no place in critical spending bills that require broad, bipartisan consensus to pass and keep the government open. Joining Duckworth, Durbin, Merkley, Baldwin and Booker on this letter are U.S. Senators Michael Bennet (D-CO), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Laphonza Butler (D-CA), Maria Cantwell (D-WA), Ben Cardin (D-MD), Tom Carper (D-DE), Bob Casey (D-PA), Chris Coons (D-DE), Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV), John Fetterman (D-PA), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Ben Luján (D-NM), Edward J. Markey (D-MA), Bob Menendez (D-NJ), Chris Murphy (D-CT), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Gary Peters (D-MI), Jack Reed (D-RI), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), J… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-murkowski-colleagues-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-support-military-and-foreign-services-spouses-and-families-create-job-flexibility Duckworth, Murkowski, Colleagues Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Support Military and Foreign Services Spouses and Families, Create Job Flexibility 2023-12-19 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), Jerry Moran (R-KS) and Jacky Rosen (D-NV) today introduced bipartisan legislation to support military and foreign service spouses and their families by creating more job flexibility when a servicemember is deployed or transferred. The READINESS Act, which was developed by current and former federally employed military spouses, aims to encourage the retainment of military spouses across the federal government and lower high employee turnover. U.S. Representatives Don Bacon (R-NE-02) and Jasmine Crockett (D-TX-30) introduced the House version of the bill in November. “When the brave members of our military and Foreign Service are relocated or transferred to a new duty station, we should be doing everything we can to support their families who sacrifice so much to go with them—including sometimes having to leave their jobs,” said Duckworth. “I’m proud to join Senator Murkowski to introduce this bipartisan legislation to ensure we provide our military and Foreign Service spouses with the flexibility and job support they need as their families make these transitions, reducing unemployment and strengthening military readiness.” “Military spouses are critical support systems in their families—and I’m proud to lead the bipartisan READINESS Act to provide job and career support to them when their spouse faces deployment or transfer,” said Murkowski. “This legislation creates flexibilities that already exist in the federal government, and can help to retain quality workers while also ensuring that the spouses of servicemembers can support their families. Our military spouses do so much for our country—and we should do what we can to make their service better.” Currently, military spouse unemployment has held over 20 percent for over 30 years and is 6 times the national unemployment rate. More than one-third of military families cite spouse employment challenges as a reason for leaving active duty. Military and foreign service moves are in… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-reacts-to-short-term-faa-extension Duckworth Reacts to Short-Term FAA Extension 2023-12-19 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, DC] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—Chair of the U.S. Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation (CST) Subcommittee on Aviation Safety, Operations and Innovation—today issued the following statement after the Senate passed a short-term extension of the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) authorization. “As Chair of the Aviation Safety subcommittee, I’m encouraged that Senate negotiators are close to finalizing a strong, full FAA Reauthorization bill that builds on the existing post-Colgan safety system—including leaving the 1,500 hour rule as-is—supercharges air traffic controller hiring, improves on the technology and equipment needed to prevent near-misses and ensures the FAA has the tools it needs to strengthen pilot training and safety margins. Today’s vote will give us the time we need to do just that.” -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/merkley-baldwin-booker-push-to-keep-anti-lgbtq-and-anti-abortion-provisions-out-of-critical-government-funding-bills Merkley, Baldwin, Booker Push to Keep Anti-LGBTQ+ and Anti-Abortion Provisions Out of Critical Government Funding Bills 2023-12-19 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate NH Margaret Wood Hassan H001076 www.hassan.senate.gov hassan https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper Today, Oregon’s U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley—along with U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and Cory Booker (D-NJ)—led 45 Senators in a letter to Senate Appropriations Committee Chair Patty Murray (D-WA) and Vice Chair Susan Collins (R-ME) urging them to reject any new poison pill policy riders in the fiscal year 2024 appropriations bills, including the anti-LGBTQ+ and anti-abortion policy provisions that House Republicans inserted into their appropriations bills. “The Senate has had tremendous success both passing bipartisan bills in committee and on the Senate floor because these bills are free of new poison pill riders. Unfortunately, the House appropriations bills are filled with new highly partisan provisions, including anti-abortion and anti-LGBTQ+ riders, that should be removed from any final appropriations bills,” write the Senators. These poison pill policy riders aim to make changes to laws that would fail to withstand scrutiny of congressional debate by attaching them to “must-pass” measures like appropriation bills. “Our country is facing a reproductive health care crisis, one that has been accelerated by the Supreme Court’s extremist decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization,” the Senators write. “House Republicans have proposed several new anti-abortion policy riders. These riders include a provision to force back in place medically unnecessary restrictions on medication abortion, a measure to stop the implementation of the Biden administration’s executive orders to protect access to abortion care, and a measure that would jeopardize access to essential postgraduate medical training in abortion care,” their letter continues. Not only are there anti-abortion poison pills included in the House bills, there are attacks on the LGBTQ+ community as well. “House Republicans have used the appropriations process to push extremist anti-LGBTQ+ measures, which threaten to disrupt the lives and fundamental dignity of the LGBTQ+ community,” the letter states. “Against this backdrop, House Republic… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/hirono-colleagues-push-to-keep-anti-lgbtq-and-anti-abortion-provisions-out-of-critical-government-funding-bills Hirono, Colleagues Push to Keep Anti-LGBTQ+ and Anti-Abortion Provisions Out of Critical Government Funding Bills 2023-12-19 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate HI Mazie K. Hirono H001042 www.hirono.senate.gov hirono https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI) joined Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Cory Booker (D-NJ), and 44 of their colleagues in sending a letter to Senate Appropriations Committee Chair Patty Murray (D-WA) and Vice Chair Susan Collins (R-ME) urging them to reject any new poison pill policy riders in the Fiscal Year 2024 appropriations bills, including the anti-LGBTQ+ and anti-abortion policy provisions that House Republicans inserted into their appropriations bills. “The Senate has had tremendous success both passing bipartisan bills in committee and on the Senate floor because these bills are free of new poison pill riders,” wrote the Senators. “Unfortunately, the House appropriations bills are filled with new highly partisan provisions, including anti-abortion and anti-LGBTQ+ riders, that should be removed from any final appropriations bills.” These “poison pill policy riders” aim to make changes to laws that would fail to withstand scrutiny of congressional debate by attaching them to “must-pass” measures such as appropriation bills. “Our country is facing a reproductive health care crisis, one that has been accelerated by the Supreme Court’s extremist decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization,” the Senators continued. “House Republicans have proposed several new anti-abortion policy riders. These riders include a provision to force back in place medically unnecessary restrictions on medication abortion, a measure to stop the implementation of the Biden administration’s executive orders to protect access to abortion care, and a measure that would jeopardize access to essential postgraduate medical training in abortion care.” Not only are there anti-abortion poison pills included in the House bills, there are attacks on the LGBTQ+ community as well. “House Republicans have used the appropriations process to push extremist anti-LGBTQ+ measures, which threaten to disrupt the lives and fundamental dignity of the LGBTQ+ community,” the Senators wrote. “Against t… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/video-on-senate-floor-hirono-highlights-biden-harris-administrations-progress-for-working-people-commends-acting-secretary-of-labor-julie-su VIDEO: On Senate Floor, Hirono Highlights Biden-Harris Administration’s Progress for Working People, Commends Acting Secretary of Labor Julie Su 2023-12-19 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate HI Mazie K. Hirono H001042 www.hirono.senate.gov hirono https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), delivered remarks on the Senate floor highlighting the historic progress made by the Biden-Harris Administration to create over 14 million jobs and keep unemployment rates low. In her remarks, Senator Hirono also commended Acting Secretary of Labor Julie Su for her work in achieving these milestones and called out unfair criticisms of the Acting Secretary. “After decades of declining union membership, working people are coming together to demand their fair share of the economic success our country is experiencing—success they make possible,” said Senator Hirono during her remarks. “Since assuming the top role at the Labor Department earlier this year, Acting Secretary Su has played a critical role supporting workers and finding consensus to move our economy forward.” Senator Hirono highlighted the crucial role Acting Secretary Su played in mediating several contentious labor disputes, including the potentially-disastrous strike at ports along the west coast, the largest health care strike in our nation’s history carried out by Kaiser Permanente employees, and the historic deal between the United Auto Workers and the Big Three auto companies. “In addition to these and many other settled labor disputes, Acting Secretary Su is leading major initiatives to make life better for working people in our country and grow the middle class—from expanding overtime protections, to strengthening apprenticeship and work training programs and much more,” continued Senator Hirono. “Julie Su’s work speaks for itself. She listens, she finds consensus, and she helps those around her stay the course for as long as it takes. What more could we ask of a Secretary of Labor?” In her remarks, Senator Hirono also called out the double-standards often applied to women of color in leadership positions. “To be blunt, Mr. President, sexism, racism, and double standards applied to women of color are all too common, in spite of their denials all around,” Senator Hirono continued. “… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/following-warner-and-kaine-push-administration-negotiates-pause-on-retaliatory-tariffs-on-whiskey-and-spirits Following Warner & Kaine Push, Administration Negotiates Pause on Retaliatory Tariffs on Whiskey and Spirits 2023-12-19 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate VA Tim Kaine K000384 www.kaine.senate.gov kaine https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) applauded the Biden administration for heeding their call to protect the millions of U.S. jobs that rely on American whiskey and spirits producers. Earlier this month, Warner and Kaine joined a bipartisan group of senators urging the administration to negotiate with the European Union (EU) to remove retaliatory tariffs that hurt these businesses in Virginia and across the country. Without urgent action from the Biden administration, the EU would have implemented a 50% tariff on American whiskey imports on January 1, 2024. Today, the EU announced they would pause these retaliatory tariffs for 15 months in response to U.S. pressure. “The spirits industry plays a vital role in Virginia’s economy, and we’re glad to see the Biden administration acted quickly to protect the thousands of Virginia jobs that rely on it,” said the senators. “We’ll keep working to reach a permanent solution that will protect the industry from harmful retaliatory tariffs.” Retaliatory tariffs by the EU have cost domestic sprits distillers and winemakers billions of dollars since 2018, and the U.S. needs a permanent solution to safeguard over 1.7 million production, distribution, and hospitality jobs that rely on the industry. The EU originally set the whiskey tariff at 25%, and following Warner and Kaine’s push, the Biden Administration negotiated an agreement to suspend the tariff until 2024. The senators’ bipartisan letter urged U.S. Trade Representative Katherine Tai to negotiate a deal to permanently remove retaliatory tariffs on all American-made sprits and wines. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/warner-and-kaine-urge-administration-to-appoint-special-envoy-for-sudan Warner & Kaine Urge Administration to Appoint Special Envoy for Sudan 2023-12-19 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate VA Tim Kaine K000384 www.kaine.senate.gov kaine https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine urged the Administration to avoid further delays in the appointment of a Special Envoy for Sudan. Nearly 4.8 million people have been internally displaced since the war in Sudan began in April 2023—resulting in one of the largest internal displacement crises in the world. It’s estimated that there have been 10,000 civilian casualties, and approximately 24 million people are in need of immediate humanitarian assistance. In their letter to U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, the senators emphasize the crucial role a Special Envoy would play in coordinating and leading U.S. diplomatic efforts to address this crisis and facilitate the delivery of humanitarian assistance. “At the onset of this conflict in April 2023, we strongly advocated for U.S. leadership in coordinating a robust international diplomatic response, the safe and swift delivery of humanitarian assistance, the protection of civilians, and, crucially, that a special envoy be appointed to provide a single address within the U.S. government, as well as a clear U.S. lead for foreign parties when participating in direct negotiations with the Rapid Support Forces, Sudanese Armed Forces, and regional partners,” wrote the senators. “Although we welcome the progress to-date in facilitating humanitarian action to meet the urgent needs of civilians, we once again reaffirm our request that you immediately appoint a special envoy to manage the Sudan crisis.” They continued, “We are concerned that the lack of a dedicated special envoy, who would report directly to the Secretary of State and who would internally coordinate and lead U.S. government efforts, and who may serve as a focal point and driver for international diplomatic and humanitarian efforts, is severely inhibiting the United States’ ability to engage most forcefully towards a resolution to the crisis.” “To ensure a prosperous future for Sudan, the U.S. government must serve as a lead negotiator in peace discussions via a special envoy … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-blumenthal-colleagues-push-to-keep-anti-lgbtq-and-anti-abortion-provisions-out-of-critical-government-funding-bills Murphy, Blumenthal, Colleagues Push to Keep Anti-LGBTQ+ and Anti-Abortion Provisions Out of Critical Government Funding Bills 2023-12-19 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) joined 48 of their Senate colleagues in a letter to U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee Chair Patty Murray (D-Wash.) and Vice Chair Susan Collins (R-Maine) urging them to reject any new poison pill policy riders in the fiscal year 2024 appropriations bills, including the anti-LGBTQ+ and anti-abortion policy provisions that House Republicans inserted into their appropriations bills. “The Senate has had tremendous success both passing bipartisan bills in committee and on the Senate floor because these bills are free of new poison pill riders. Unfortunately, the House appropriations bills are filled with new highly partisan provisions, including anti-abortion and anti-LGBTQ+ riders, that should be removed from any final appropriations bills,” write the Senators. These poison pill policy riders aim to make changes to laws that would fail to withstand scrutiny of congressional debate by attaching them to “must-pass” measures like appropriation bills. “Our country is facing a reproductive health care crisis, one that has been accelerated by the Supreme Court’s extremist decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization,” the Senators write. “House Republicans have proposed several new anti-abortion policy riders. These riders include a provision to force back in place medically unnecessary restrictions on medication abortion, a measure to stop the implementation of the Biden administration’s executive orders to protect access to abortion care, and a measure that would jeopardize access to essential postgraduate medical training in abortion care,” their letter continues. “House Republicans have used the appropriations process to push extremist anti-LGBTQ+ measures, which threaten to disrupt the lives and fundamental dignity of the LGBTQ+ community,” the letter states. “Against this backdrop, House Republicans have introduced more than 50 anti-LGBTQ+ provisions across all 12 appropriations bills. These provisions include those al… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-passes-peters-and-lankford-bipartisan-bill-to-save-taxpayer-dollars-by-reusing-excess-federal-property Senate Passes Peters and Lankford Bipartisan Bill to Save Taxpayer Dollars by Reusing Excess Federal Property 2023-12-19 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate MI Gary C. Peters P000595 www.peters.senate.gov garypeters https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Senate has passed bipartisan legislation authored by U.S. Senators Gary Peters (D-MI), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, and James Lankford (R-OK) to hold agencies more accountable to the public on how they reuse excess personal property. Federally-owned personal property includes physical items such as office supplies, furniture, automobiles, and heavy machinery. The federal government is the largest purchaser of goods and services in the world, and this bill would ensure agencies are looking to excess property– available at no cost apart from any necessary transportation – before buying new products to save taxpayer dollars. “Federal agencies have a responsibility to taxpayers use dollars responsibly. When it comes to purchasing goods like office supplies, equipment, and vehicles, agencies should consider reusing excess goods rather than buying them new,” said Senator Peters. “My bipartisan legislation would hold the federal government more accountable by ensuring agencies consider goods that have already been purchased when looking for new personal property.” “This is not that hard. Use the stuff you already have before you buy more stuff. When federal agencies just buy more, before they use what we already have, it shows a lack of commitment to saving taxpayer dollars. The federal government is already the largest single buyer of goods and services in the world, so we need to prioritize good stewardship and effective use of property the government has already purchased,” said Senator Lankford. “From paper clips to automobiles, Oklahoma families and businesses make decisions every day about how to use what they have before spending more money. We should always look for ways for the federal government to save more money and waste less time.” The Reuse Excess Property Act would update existing requirements for agencies to report their excess personal property to the General Services Administration (GSA) by making those reports available to the public … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-completes-tour-of-all-62-new-york-counties-for-landmark-25th-year-now-with-4500-visits-to-upstate-ny-and-long-island-in-his-career-senator-says-his-silver-anniversary-with-the-empire-state-was-one-of-most-meaningful-tours_including-delivering-billions-for-infrastructure-creating-thousands-of-good-paying-jobs--and-says-he-will-continue-tradition-again-next-year SCHUMER COMPLETES TOUR OF ALL 62 NEW YORK COUNTIES FOR LANDMARK 25th YEAR; NOW WITH 4,500+ VISITS TO UPSTATE NY AND LONG ISLAND IN HIS CAREER, SENATOR SAYS HIS SILVER ANNIVERSARY WITH THE EMPIRE STATE... 2023-12-19 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate NY Charles E. Schumer S000148 www.schumer.senate.gov schumer https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper During Schumer’s 1998 Senate Election Campaign, He Vowed To Visit Every Single New York County Each Year — Now, After 25 Years Of Keeping His Promise, He Is Marking Historic 25th Year Of The Tradition That Has Accumulated 4,500+ Visits To Communities In Every Corner Of New York Schumer: After 25 Years Of Traveling The State, I Am Not Slowing Down – And Promise To Continue Traveling, Listening, Learning and Delivering For New York In Bigger And Bolder Ways! Marking the silver anniversary of his beloved tradition, U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer today announced he completed his landmark 25th year of his annual 62 county tour, with his final stop yesterday in Columbia County. Over the past 25 years, Schumer visited Upstate New York and Long Island a whopping 4,500+ times with 112 non-NYC county visits this year alone. Schumer was the first New York public official to start a tour of every single county in New York, a tradition he has continued each year he has been in office. “25 years ago, I made the promise to visit every county, but little did I know that this tradition would bring me across our great state over 4,500 times. From Buffalo to Brooklyn, meeting with New Yorkers from every walk of life on my tour is what inspires me, it is how I learn, and it is what motivates me every day in Washington,” said Senator Schumer. “This was a landmark year, and one of my most meaningful tours, as we got to see firsthand many of the historic investments we made from my CHIPS & Science Act, the Bipartisan Infrastructure & Jobs Law, the Inflation Reduction Act and more really start to bloom. We have delivered billions for long overdue infrastructure projects from roads to broadband, new cutting-edge industry and thousands of good paying jobs coming back from overseas to Upstate NY. All of that would not be possible without the knowledge and motivation I gain from the people I meet on the 62 county tour.” “Whether it was standing outside the long abandoned Jamestown furniture factory that sat as an eyesore in the community a… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-ricketts-respond-to-reports-that-recent-elections-in-serbia-were-not-free-nor-fair Shaheen, Ricketts Respond to Reports that Recent Elections in Serbia Were Not Free nor Fair 2023-12-19 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate NH Jeanne Shaheen S001181 www.shaheen.senate.gov shaheen https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press scraper (Washington, DC) - U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen, a senior member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee (SFRC) and Chair of the Europe and Regional Security Cooperation Subcommittee, and U.S. Senator Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Ranking Member of the Subcommittee, today released a joint statement in response to reports that the recent elections in Serbia were not fair nor free: “The national elections in Serbia over the weekend were an opportunity for the country to demonstrate its continued commitment to democracy and free and fair elections. However, we are disappointed to learn that, according to the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, the elections were technically well administered but there were numerous irregularities which indicate that the elections were neither free nor fair. “In particular, we were concerned by reports that voters were bused into Serbia to support the ruling party, in addition to reports of vote buying and ballot box stuffing. The Serbian people deserve a true democracy and an electoral process that fully represents the will of the people. “Right now, Serbia is at a crossroads and in order to advance its European Union membership aspirations, it must align itself with all competences outlined by the EU, which includes free and fair elections. We strongly urge all relevant institutions to take immediate action to consider whether these recent elections should be repeated in specific regions of the country to ensure that the results accurately reflect the wishes of its citizens. The Serbian government must also address the deficiencies and address all irregularities outlined in the OSCE’s preliminary report and in the final report when it becomes available,” the Senators concluded. Since her election into the Senate in 2009, Senator Shaheen has prioritized her leadership on the Western Balkans and has led numerous congressional delegations to the region. In April 2022, Shaheen led a bipartisan congressional delegation to Serbia as part of a broader trip to the Wester… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-urges-faa-administrator-whitaker-to-conduct-a-thorough-assessment-of-safety-measures-to-better-protect-air-traffic-controllers Shaheen Urges FAA Administrator Whitaker to Conduct a Thorough Assessment of Safety Measures to Better Protect Air Traffic Controllers 2023-12-19 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate NH Jeanne Shaheen S001181 www.shaheen.senate.gov shaheen https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press scraper (Washington, DC) - Today, U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) sent a letter to Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Administrator Michael Whitaker urging the FAA to conduct a thorough assessment of potential measures to mitigate stressful work conditions for air traffic controllers. A New York Times investigation, as well as a report issued by the National Airspace Safety Review Team (SRT) last month, found that long hours and irregular work schedules contribute to fatigue, deteriorated mental health and increased substance misuse among these vital workers. In part, Senator Shaheen wrote: “In particular, it is critical that the FAA implement recommendations included in the report to address understaffing of certified professional controllers. As the SRT reports, current staffing levels have led to historic overtime rates – leading to increased fatigue and mental health concerns that have resulted in preventable human errors.” Shaheen continued: “In addition to the assessment conducted by the SRT, I urge the FAA to thoroughly review measures in place to address controller fatigue, burnout and general physical and mental wellbeing. The personal accounts reported by the New York Times reflect a dire level of occupational stress that imperils the health of every controller employed by the FAA and jeopardizes the safety of America’s traveling public. These accounts must be treated seriously and met with a focused effort to address unsustainable controller workload and increase mental health resources and support.” The letter can be read in its entirety here. Earlier this year, Shaheen wrote former FAA Acting Administrator Billy Nolen about the issue of workforce shortages as airports across the country faced multiple runway incursion incidents. In June, Shaheen introduced legislation to address air traffic controller staffing and increase transparency in their hiring process. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-joins-merkley-baldwin-booker-colleagues-in-pushing-to-keep-anti-lgbtq-and-anti-abortion-provisions-out-of-critical-government-funding-bills Van Hollen Joins Merkley, Baldwin, Booker, Colleagues in Pushing to Keep Anti-LGBTQ+ and Anti-Abortion Provisions Out of Critical Government Funding Bills 2023-12-19 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate MD Chris Van Hollen V000128 www.vanhollen.senate.gov vanhollen https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) joined Senators Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), and Cory Booker (D-N.J.) and their Senate colleagues in sending a letter to Senate Appropriations Committee Chair Patty Murray (D-Wash.) and Vice Chair Susan Collins (R-Maine) urging them to reject any new poison pill policy riders in the fiscal year 2024 appropriations bills, including the anti-LGBTQ+ and anti-abortion policy provisions that House Republicans inserted into their appropriations bills. “The Senate has had tremendous success both passing bipartisan bills in committee and on the Senate floor because these bills are free of new poison pill riders. Unfortunately, the House appropriations bills are filled with new highly partisan provisions, including anti-abortion and anti-LGBTQ+ riders, that should be removed from any final appropriations bills,” write the Senators. These poison pill policy riders aim to make changes to laws that would fail to withstand scrutiny of congressional debate by attaching them to “must-pass” measures like appropriation bills. “Our country is facing a reproductive health care crisis, one that has been accelerated by the Supreme Court’s extremist decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization,” the Senators write. “House Republicans have proposed several new anti-abortion policy riders. These riders include a provision to force back in place medically unnecessary restrictions on medication abortion, a measure to stop the implementation of the Biden administration’s executive orders to protect access to abortion care, and a measure that would jeopardize access to essential postgraduate medical training in abortion care,” their letter continues. Not only are there anti-abortion poison pills included in the House bills, there are attacks on the LGBTQ+ community as well. “House Republicans have used the appropriations process to push extremist anti-LGBTQ+ measures, which threaten to disrupt the lives and fundamental dignity of the LGBTQ+ community,” the letter state… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=3A0078CF-829C-43B2-A98A-08BFA23B65EC Sens. Warner and Kaine Urge Administration to Appoint Special Envoy for Sudan 2023-12-19 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate VA Mark R. Warner W000805 www.warner.senate.gov warner https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases scraper WASHINGTON – U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine urged the Administration to avoid further delays in the appointment of a Special Envoy for Sudan. Nearly 4.8 million people have been internally displaced since the war in Sudan began in April 2023—resulting in one of the largest internal displacement crises in the world. It’s estimated that there have been 10,000 civilian casualties, and approximately 24 million people are in need of immediate humanitarian assistance. In their letter to U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken, the senators emphasize the crucial role a Special Envoy would play in coordinating and leading U.S. diplomatic efforts to address this crisis and facilitate the delivery of humanitarian assistance. “At the onset of this conflict in April 2023, we strongly advocated for U.S. leadership in coordinating a robust international diplomatic response, the safe and swift delivery of humanitarian assistance, the protection of civilians, and, crucially, that a special envoy be appointed to provide a single address within the U.S. government, as well as a clear U.S. lead for foreign parties when participating in direct negotiations with the Rapid Support Forces, Sudanese Armed Forces, and regional partners,” wrote the senators. “Although we welcome the progress to-date in facilitating humanitarian action to meet the urgent needs of civilians, we once again reaffirm our request that you immediately appoint a special envoy to manage the Sudan crisis.” They continued, “We are concerned that the lack of a dedicated special envoy, who would report directly to the Secretary of State and who would internally coordinate and lead U.S. government efforts, and who may serve as a focal point and driver for international diplomatic and humanitarian efforts, is severely inhibiting the United States’ ability to engage most forcefully towards a resolution to the crisis.” “To ensure a prosperous future for Sudan, the U.S. government must serve as a lead negotiator in peace discussions via a special envoy for Sudan… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=D5D7EA33-1B34-473B-9D28-16EFBF64C7C0 Warner, Kennedy Introduce Legislation to Require Financial Regulators to Respond to AI Market Threats 2023-12-19 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate VA Mark R. Warner W000805 www.warner.senate.gov warner https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases scraper WASHINGTON — U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner (D-VA) and John Kennedy (R-LA), both members of the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs, introduced the Financial Artificial Intelligence Risk Reduction Act, bipartisan legislation to require financial regulators to address uses of AI-generated content that could disrupt financial markets. “AI has tremendous potential but also enormous disruptive power across a variety of fields and industries – perhaps none more so than our financial markets,” said Sen. Warner, a former business executive and venture capitalist. “The time to address those vulnerabilities is now.” “AI is moving quickly, and our laws should do the same to prevent AI manipulation from rattling our financial markets. Our bill would help ensure that AI threats do not put Americans’ investments and retirement dreams at risk,” Sen. Kennedy said. The legislation requires the Financial Stability Oversight Council (FSOC) to coordinate financial regulators’ response to threats to the stability of the markets posed by AI, including the use of “deepfakes” by malign actors and other practices associated with the use of AI tools that could undermine the financial system, such as trading algorithms. The legislation also requires FSOC to identify gaps in existing regulations, guidance, and exam standards that could hinder effective responses to AI threats, and implement specific recommendations to address those gaps. In response to the potential magnitude of the threat, the Financial Artificial Intelligence Risk Reduction Act would also provide for treble penalties when AI is used in violations of Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) rules, including acts of market manipulation and fraud. The legislation also makes clear that anyone who uses an AI model is responsible for making sure that everything that model does complies with all securities laws. The legislation also provides the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) and Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) with the authority necessary… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-urges-federal-trade-commission-to-block-kroger-albertsons-merger Wyden Urges Federal Trade Commission to Block Kroger-Albertsons Merger 2023-12-19 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate OR Ron Wyden W000779 www.wyden.senate.gov wyden https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden today urged the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to block the proposed Kroger and Albertsons merger due to potential negative effects on consumers in Oregon and nationwide. “Specifically, I am concerned that the proposed merger, if approved, will result in fewer pharmacy options for Oregonians, fewer economic opportunities for Oregon’s small farmers, and harm to Oregon’s workers and consumers,” Wyden wrote in the letter to FTC Chair Lina Khan. “The Oregon Health Authority undertook a preliminary review of the impact of the proposed merger on health care and found that the proposed merger would result in a harmful concentration of retail pharmacies in the state.” In the letter, Wyden also emphasized this merger would put Oregonians' privacy at risk due to Kroger’s policies for sharing patient information with law enforcement without warrants. “As part of a recent inquiry I conducted into major pharmacy chains’ privacy practices, I learned that Kroger provides pharmacy records to law enforcement officials without a warrant or any internal review by a legal professional. This finding places Kroger behind the majority of its peer chain pharmacies in terms of its commitment to safeguarding patient privacy.” “Less than a decade ago, Albertsons-Safeway proposed a similar divestiture only to buy back many of the divested stores two years later and watch the rest go out of business. I urge the FTC to use the Albertsons-Safeway outcome as a guide to the Commission as it considers possible outcomes of this proposed merger,” Wyden continued. The Kroger-Albertsons merger threatens to make the consolidation crisis in the retail food market worse, following on large deals like the Albertsons-Safeway merger in 2015, as well as the expansion of mega-retailers across the country that have driven independent grocers out of business. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/news/press-releases/baldwin-continues-to-push-for-federal-funding-to-rebuild-the-blatnik-bridge Baldwin Continues to Push for Federal Funding to Rebuild the Blatnik Bridge 2023-12-18 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate WI Tammy Baldwin B001230 www.baldwin.senate.gov baldwin https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), and Tina Smith (D-MN) and Representative Pete Stauber (R-MN-08) are urging Transportation Secretary Buttigieg to support Wisconsin and Minnesota’s application for federal funding to rebuild the Blatnik Bridge. “We write to reiterate our strong support of the Minnesota and Wisconsin Department of Transportations’ application for federal funding through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law,” wrote the lawmakers. “By replacing the Blatnik Bridge, the project would exemplify the type of critical infrastructure project that was envisioned by Congress.” “As noted in our previous letter to President Biden in September 2023, the Blatnik Bridge, located over St. Louis Bay on Lake Superior, is one of two bridges that connects the cities of Duluth, Minnesota with Superior, Wisconsin,” the lawmakers continued. “It is an essential economic engine in the region and a key link in the global supply chain.” Earlier this month, Senator Baldwin called on the Biden Administration to support the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT)’s application for federal funding to rebuild the critical bridge. In September, Senator Baldwin and a bipartisan group of eight Minnesota and Wisconsin legislators sent a letter to President Biden urging him to fund this project. The full text of the letter is available here and below. Dear Secretary Buttigieg: We write to reiterate our strong support of the Minnesota and Wisconsin Departments of Transportation’s application for federal funding through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. This federal funding will improve the condition of major bridges across the country. By replacing the Blatnik Bridge, the project would exemplify the type of critical infrastructure project that was envisioned by Congress. As noted in our letter to President Biden in September 2023, the Blatnik Bridge, located over St. Louis Bay on Lake Superior, is one of two bridges that connects the cities of Duluth, Minnesota with Superior, Wisco… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/senators-blumenthal-and-markey-applaud-dot-settlement-with-southwest-airlines Senators Blumenthal & Markey Applaud DOT Settlement with Southwest Airlines 2023-12-18 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Edward J. Markey (D-MA), a member of the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee released the following statement after the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) announced a $140 million settlement with Southwest Airlines over its mass flight cancellations during the 2022 holiday season. As part of the settlement, Southwest will provide $90 million in vouchers to future passengers whose flights are delayed at least three hours due to a problem within Southwest’s control. “Southwest made critical mistakes in its response to last year’s holiday meltdown, and this settlement is a clear reminder that passengers must come first when airlines cancel or delay a flight. Although Southwest’s new program to compensate passengers for airline-caused delays is an important step forward, Southwest should provide cash, instead of vouchers, to passengers, and we urge the Transportation Department to require all airlines to adopt similar programs. Consumers should not be forced to cover the costs of airlines’ mistakes.” In December 2022, as Southwest canceled thousands of flights, Senators Blumenthal and Markey called on the airline to provide monetary compensation to passengers for the cancellations, in addition to the ticket refunds and reimbursement for hotels, meals, and alternative transportation that Southwest already agreed to provide to impacted customers. In January 2023, they led 13 of their colleagues in a letter to Southwest Airlines CEO Robert E. Jordan seeking answers for its mass flight cancellations. Also in January 2023, Senators Blumenthal and Markey led the introduction of the Airline Passengers’ Bill of Rights and the Forbidding Airlines from Imposing Ridiculous (FAIR) Fees Act, bills to expand protections for air travelers. In March 2023, Senator Markey, along with Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), Peter Welch (D-Vt.), and Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), introduced the Airline Operational Resiliency Act, which would require the U… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-blackburn-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-help-beauty-professionals-recognize-and-respond-to-domestic-violence Duckworth, Blackburn Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Help Beauty Professionals Recognize and Respond to Domestic Violence 2023-12-18 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Today, U.S. Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) introduced bipartisan legislation to incentivize states to provide domestic violence awareness training for beauty professionals and cosmetologists, which would help these individuals better recognize signs of abuse in their clients, appropriately intervene and keep them safe. The Supporting the Abused by Learning Options to Navigate Survivor (SALONS) Stories Act would increase already-established grants to states that require beauty professionals and cosmetologists to undergo free and easily accessible domestic violence awareness training in order to help ensure more of these individuals are trained to successfully navigate conversations with clients who could be in danger. “Victims of domestic violence often don’t know where to turn or who to talk to, but they do often continue going to their salons—which puts beauty professionals in a unique position of potentially being among the first people who can recognize signs of abuse,” said Duckworth. “I’m proud to join Senator Blackburn on our bipartisan SALONS Stories Act, which builds on Illinois’s 2017 law, to help more beauty professionals access free domestic violence awareness training that can give them the tools and knowledge they need to help victims effectively. How they handle these critical moments could be life-saving.” “One in four women will be a victim of domestic violence in her lifetime, and in the United States, three women are killed each day by an intimate partner,” said Blackburn. “There is no better community to recognize this abuse and help victims than beauty professionals. Some women, even at their most vulnerable and isolated, will continue going to the salon and building relationships with their cosmetologists. This is a common-sense bipartisan bill to help equip cosmetologists with resources necessary to identify and support victims of domestic violence.” Illinois and Tennessee have joined several states in passing landmark legislation to give … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-durbin-announce-more-than-18-million-in-federal-funding-for-road-improvements-throughout-illinois Duckworth, Durbin Announce More Than $1.8 Million in Federal Funding for Road Improvements Throughout Illinois 2023-12-18 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and Dick Durbin (D-IL) today announced $1,835,880 in new federal funding for a total of five projects throughout Illinois to help improve traffic safety. These federal investments from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Safe Streets and Roads for All program will help support planning, infrastructure, behavioral and operational initiatives to prevent death and serious injury on roads and streets involving all roadway users. “Improving street safety and increasing multimodal transportation infrastructure makes for safer, more active and more vibrant communities,” Duckworth said. “I’m proud to announce this important funding to help communities throughout Illinois make the much-needed improvements to catalyze economic development, enhance community connectivity and improve quality of life for residents.” “Safer roads mean safer communities, and by dedicating resources to improve traffic safety, we’re laying the foundation for a better Illinois,” said Durbin. “By investing in our infrastructure, we’re fostering connectivity, ensuring that every Illinoisan has equitable access to opportunities across our state.” The following units of local government have been awarded funding: City of Freeport: $400,000 for the City of Freeport Safe Streets for All Action Plan City of Mattoon: $80,000 for the City of Mattoon to develop a comprehensive safety action plan Champaign County: $945,000 for the Champaign County Regional Planning Commission to conduct supplemental planning to better consider equity in transportation safety plans and update safety data used in transportation plans City of East St. Louis: $218,880 for the City of East St Louis to develop a comprehensive safety action plan Boone County: $192,000 for the Boone County Radar Speed Sign and Attenuator for Spring Creek and Poplar Grove roads corridors -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-blasts-u-s-steel-sale-vows-to-take-all-possible-actions-to-block-acquisition/ Fetterman Blasts U.S. Steel Sale, Vows to Take All Possible Actions to Block Acquisition 2023-12-18 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate PA John Fetterman F000479 www.fetterman.senate.gov fetterman https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ scraper BRADDOCK, PA – Pennsylvania U.S. Senator John Fetterman on Monday released the following statement blasting the proposed sale of U.S. Steel to Nippon Steel, a Japanese company. “I live across the street from U.S. Steel’s Edgar Thompson plant in Braddock. It’s absolutely outrageous that U.S. Steel has agreed to sell themselves to a foreign company. Steel is always about security – both our national security and the economic security of our steel communities. I am committed to doing anything I can do, using my platform and my position, to block this foreign sale.” “This is yet another example of hard-working Americans being blindsided by greedy corporations willing to sell out their communities to serve their shareholders. I stand with the men and women of the Steelworkers and their union way of life. We cannot allow them to be screwed over or left behind. I promise to them and to all forgotten communities across Pennsylvania that I will work with Senator Casey and the rest of the delegation to fight like hell to make this right.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/hirono-leads-colleagues-in-introducing-bill-to-provide-construction-funding-to-federally-impacted-school-districts Hirono Leads Colleagues in Introducing Bill to Provide Construction Funding to Federally-Impacted School Districts 2023-12-18 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate HI Mazie K. Hirono H001042 www.hirono.senate.gov hirono https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI) led 10 of her colleagues in introducing the Impact Aid Infrastructure Partnership Act, legislation that would provide a total of $1 billion over four years for Impact Aid Construction Grants to address the significant backlog of facility needs at federally impacted school districts. Companion legislation was introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by Representative John Garamendi (D-CA). “All students deserve access to a quality education in a safe environment where they can learn and grow, and as a Co-Chair of the Senate Impact Aid Coalition, I am proud to have introduced this bill to fund long-overdue repairs for schools in Hawaii and across the country,” said Senator Hirono. “Federal Impact Aid provides critical funding for federally-impacted schools. But too often, that funding is not enough to meet maintenance needs. By providing $1 billion for needed upgrades, this legislation will enable schools to address the significant backlog of school construction, repair, and maintenance needs to help our students learn in a suitable learning environment.” The Impact Aid Infrastructure Partnership Act would ensure that federally impacted school districts have the resources needed to provide every student with a quality education and safe learning environment by authorizing $250,000,000 annually for four years for Impact Aid Construction Grants. Of this funding, 25% would be made available via formula funding to all eligible school districts. The Department of Education would disseminate the remaining 75% as competitive grants with priority for those school districts with acute emergencies in their facilities. “I am grateful to Senator Hirono for introducing this legislation in the Senate and for fighting for safe environments for teachers and students,” said Garamendi. “This bill addresses long-overdue repair needs to ensure equitable access to quality education and safe learning environments for students across the country. Every child should have the o… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-cosponsors-bill-to-expand-maternal-health-care-options Kaine Cosponsors Bill to Expand Maternal Health Care Options 2023-12-18 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate VA Tim Kaine K000384 www.kaine.senate.gov kaine https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tim Kaine, a member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) Committee, cosponsored the Healthy Maternal and Obstetric Medicine (MOM) Act, legislation led by Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH) that would expand health care options for expectant mothers. Certain life events, including marriage, divorce, giving birth or adopting a baby, and changing jobs, trigger a special enrollment period to enroll in health insurance outside of an insurer’s annual open enrollment period. Currently, becoming pregnant is not considered a qualifying event, meaning expectant mothers must wait until the birth of their child or an annual enrollment period to sign up for or change their coverage. The Healthy MOM Act would establish a special enrollment period for expectant mothers that are eligible for coverage through the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and other private individual or group health plan coverage, ensuring that they can access affordable health care throughout their pregnancies. “Access to high-quality health care before, during, and after pregnancy is crucial to prevent devastating outcomes for Virginia families,” said Kaine. “Most pregnancy-related deaths are preventable. The Healthy MOM Act would improve maternal health outcomes, lower costs, and help expectant mothers and their babies get the care they need, so they can start happy, healthy lives.” According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 1,205 women in the United States died from pregnancy-related complications in 2021, up from 861 in 2020 and 754 in 2019. Black and American Indian/Alaska Native women are about three times more likely to die from a pregnancy-related cause than white women. Prenatal care leads to healthier mothers and babies. Data demonstrates expanding access to prenatal care could help prevent more than 80 percent of pregnancy-related deaths. Without access to health insurance, expecting moms also face high out-of-pocket costs. The Healthy MOM Act would improve maternal health outcomes a… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/warner-kaine-and-colleagues-push-to-fund-wmata-national-security-needs Warner, Kaine, & Colleagues Push to Fund WMATA National Security Needs 2023-12-18 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate VA Tim Kaine K000384 www.kaine.senate.gov kaine https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Sens. Mark R. Warner, Tim Kaine, Ben Cardin, and Chris Van Hollen wrote to President Biden requesting that the administration include at least $30 million in their FY25 budget request for the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) to specifically address the agency’s operational costs related to national security and counterterrorism. This request comes as WMATA faces a $750 million budget shortfall that threatens safety and services starting next summer. In their letter, the senators stress that WMATA, more than other transit authorities, shoulders a heavy security burden because of its role in federal government operations and national security activities. The agency estimates that it spends between $30 and $33 million annually on operations relating to its national security and counterterrorism mission. “Given this sui generis role played by WMATA, it should come as no surprise that the agency shoulders some burdens that are unique among transit providers. Perhaps most important of these burdens is WMATA’s responsibility to prevent terrorism targeting our Nation’s capital—a responsibility far out of proportion to the size of the system,” the senators wrote. They continued, “Unfortunately, this responsibility is more than hypothetical. In 2010, an anti-government extremist opened fire at the Pentagon station. A year later, a man was convicted in connection with the targeting of four WMATA stations in a terrorist bomb plot. And let us not forget that it was a Metro Transit Police officer who, while assisting Capitol Police, discovered the bomb planted at the Democratic National Committee on January 6, 2021.” Sens. Warner, Kaine, Cardin, and Van Hollen have long been active supporters of WMATA, working to secure critical funding, expand service, and improve safety. A copy of the letter is available here and below: Dear President Biden: We write today to respectfully request that the President’s budget request for Fiscal Year 2025 include at least $30 million f… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-blumenthal-38-democratic-senators-introduce-resolution-affirming-support-for-fdas-scientific-judgment-that-medication-abortion-is-safe-and-effective Murphy, Blumenthal, 38 Democratic Senators Introduce Resolution Affirming Support for FDA's Scientific Judgment that Medication Abortion is Safe and Effective 2023-12-18 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) joined 38 of their Democratic Senate colleagues in introducing a resolution in support of equitable, science-based policies governing access to medication abortion. Since the Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, reproductive rights have been increasingly under attack, with more than a dozen states banning or restricting access to abortion care, and anti-abortion extremists attempting to ban medication abortion nationwide. Medication abortion is currently used for over half of all abortions. This resolution expresses the sense of Congress that the scientific judgment of the FDA that mifepristone is safe and effective should be respected, and that law and policy governing access to life-saving, time-sensitive medication abortion care in the United States should be equitable and based on science. The resolution affirms that mifepristone is safe and effective, while acknowledging the significant harm that would be posed to both health care providers and patients across the nation if mifepristone were sharply curtailed. This action comes as Americans continue to grapple with the reversal of Roe v. Wade, and follows this week’s announcement that the Supreme Court will hear a challenge to medication abortion access. “Mifepristone is a safe, effective drug approved by the FDA more than 20 years ago that millions of women rely on, so it should come as no surprise it’s been chosen as the right wing’s next target. Cutting off access to medication abortion would bring us one step closer to a national abortion ban. I will keep fighting to keep government out of women’s health care,” said Murphy. “Our resolution resoundingly reaffirms the need for abortion medication to remain accessible. This medication has been used safely and effectively for twenty years, and is the most common form of abortion care. With Republicans imposing draconian restrictions on reproductive care across the country, we must ensure abortion medication remains availab… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-unanimously-passes-senators-peters-and-stabenows-bipartisan-bicameral-legislation-to-settle-longstanding-land-claims-of-the-keweenaw-bay-indian-community-clear-title-of-current-landowners Senate Unanimously Passes Senators Peters and Stabenow’s Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Settle Longstanding Land Claims of the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community, Clear Title of Current Landowners 2023-12-18 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate MI Gary C. Peters P000595 www.peters.senate.gov garypeters https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, DC – The U.S. Senate has unanimously passed bipartisan, bicameral legislation led by U.S. Senators Gary Peters (MI) and Debbie Stabenow (MI) to settle the longstanding land claims of the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community (KBIC) and clear the title of current landowners in the community. The KBIC was guaranteed occupancy over a large area of land established as the L’Anse Reservation through Treaties signed in 1842 and 1854. Despite those Treaties, thousands of acres of the reservation were taken by the federal government without compensation and awarded to the State of Michigan. Peters and Stabenow introduced the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community Land Claim Settlement Act of 2023 in coordination with the KBIC and state and local governments to address this longstanding issue. Representative Bergman (R-MI-01) has introduced companion legislation in the House of Representatives. “This bipartisan bill rightly settles the claims brought by the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community and provides legal clearance for local residents who currently own the property at issue,” said Senator Peters. “It’s time to right this wrong.” “Passage of this legislation resolving longstanding land claims is an important step forward. This bill is a long overdue solution,” said Senator Stabenow. “The Tribal Council and the whole Keweenaw Bay Indian Community are beyond overjoyed by the Senate’ unanimous passage yesterday of S. 195, the Keweenaw Bay Indian Community Land Claims Act. We have sought relief and compensation for generations for the unlawful taking of our lands. Thanks to Senator Peters and Senator Stabenow we finally feel heard,” said Keweenaw Bay Indian Community President Doreen Blaker. The Keweenaw Bay Indian Community’s land claims involve the dispossession of between approximately 1,333 and 2,720 acres of land transferred by the United States government to the State of Michigan as compensation for the construction of the Sault Ste. Marie Canal, as well as approximately 2,743 acres of swamplands. The KBIC asserts that as… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-introduces-legislation-to-help-rural-communities-benefit-from-investments-in-clean-energy-and-energy-efficiency Shaheen Introduces Legislation to Help Rural Communities Benefit from Investments in Clean Energy and Energy Efficiency 2023-12-18 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate NH Jeanne Shaheen S001181 www.shaheen.senate.gov shaheen https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press scraper (Washington, DC) - U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) introduced The Energy Circuit Riders Act, legislation to help ensure communities in rural America can take advantage of historic investments in energy efficiency and clean energy. Shaheen’s bill would establish a new grant program within USDA Rural Development to help eligible entities hire local, on-the-ground experts that travel to rural communities and provide assistance on projects that can help save energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. “From the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to the Inflation Reduction Act, we’ve made historic investments in energy efficiency and clean energy and it’s critical that rural communities take advantage of these resources to the fullest extent,” said Senator Shaheen. “We’ve seen what these programs can do in the Granite State to lower costs for families and protect our environment—it's time we make sure all of our communities benefit.” These Energy Circuit Riders would work with multiple local governments in rural areas to provide assistance, such as energy planning, energy audits, grant writing, identifying federal, state, local and utility-based energy incentives and more. The legislation is modeled after a successful Energy Circuit Rider program in New Hampshire run by Clean Energy NH, a nonprofit based in Concord, New Hampshire. “The IIJA and IRA are transformative investments in America's transition to zero carbon technologies, but if we want communities with fewer resources to receive these funds, they need help. Energy Circuit Riders can provide unbiased advice to communities, assist them in accessing federal grants and rebates, and deploy clean energy in local communities.” said Sam Evans Brown, Executive Director of Clean Energy New Hampshire. Shaheen’s legislation is co-sponsored by U.S. Senators, Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Peter Welch (D-VT) and Ron Wyden (D-OR). The legislation is also endorsed by the National Association of State Energy Officials (NASEO) and American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy (… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-murkowski-reintroduce-bipartisan-bill-to-improve-girls-access-to-education-around-the-world Shaheen, Murkowski Reintroduce Bipartisan Bill to Improve Girls’ Access to Education Around the World 2023-12-18 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate NH Jeanne Shaheen S001181 www.shaheen.senate.gov shaheen https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press scraper **Today, 120 million girls around the world are not regularly enrolled in school** **Girls in crisis and conflict settings are nearly 2.5 times more likely to be out of school than those living in countries not in crisis** (Washington, DC) – U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a senior member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, reintroduced her legislation with U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK) to address the unique barriers young girls in developing countries face in accessing a complete education. “Keeping girls in school is fundamental to ensuring they have the opportunity to grow and thrive—and when girls are empowered with access to quality education, their communities and countries are better able to achieve gender equality and economic development,” said Senator Shaheen. “I’m proud to once again join with Senator Murkowski to reintroduce bipartisan legislation to address the systemic and persistent barriers impeding girls’ education worldwide and reiterate our nation’s moral obligation and foreign policy priority to act now to protect and educate girls around the world.” “Access to education is critical to a nation’s development and health—and yet we still see that around the world too many girls and women are denied the opportunity to go to school,” said Senator Lisa Murkowski. “I’m proud to join Senator Shaheen on this effort to reduce the many barriers girls face in accessing quality education—including forced marriages, unsafe or violent environments, and more. Our bill works to empower millions of young girls across the world who will go on to play a crucial role in driving economic development in their communities. Everyone deserves access to an education—and I am proud to fight for this opportunity for young girls around the world.” According to data from the Malala Fund, 120 million girls around the world are not in school. The Keeping Girls in School Act would direct the U.S. government to leverage its resources and partnerships with private institutions, NGOs and federal agencie… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/maryland-delegation-announces-nearly-13-million-for-coastal-restoration-and-resilience-projects Maryland Delegation Announces Nearly $13 Million for Coastal Restoration and Resilience Projects 2023-12-18 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate MD Chris Van Hollen V000128 www.vanhollen.senate.gov vanhollen https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper Today, U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin and Congressmen Steny H. Hoyer, John Sarbanes and Kweisi Mfume (all D-Md.) announced $12,901,800 in National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) and National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) funding for restoration and resiliency projects to improve coastal communities and their fish and wildlife habitats. The funding was made available through the National Coastal Resilience Fund (NCRF) and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The federal funds will bolster climate resiliency and reduce the risks and devastating impacts of rising seas, coastal flooding and intense storms in coastal areas and habitats. “Climate change is an existential threat that affects every community, but coastal communities are particularly vulnerable,” said the lawmakers. “This funding will help Maryland communities implement comprehensive solutions to address issues like flooding and coastal erosion. Across the state, we’re investing in projects to restore and protect our shorelines and habitats and create more sustainable, resilient communities.” The federal grants have been awarded to the following: Backyard Basecamp, $202,600, for Design and Permitting for Stream Daylighting and Restoration of Biddison Run in Baltimore City Chesapeake Bay Foundation, $843,500, for Restoring Oyster Reefs and Improving Resilience in the Severn River through Community Engagement Delmarva Resource Conservation and Development Council, $2,253,400, for Advancing Coastal Resilience through Salt Marsh Restoration in Coastal Bays Dorchester County Council, $700,000, for Utilizing Living Shoreline Techniques to Reduce Erosion in the Hoopersville Village District GreenTrust Alliance, $1,519,900, for the Final Design and Permitting for the Blossom Point Shoreline Stabilization Project The Resilience Authority of Annapolis and Anne Arundel County, $819,300, for Establishing a Nature-Based Resilience Pilot with the Annapolis Maritime Resilience Initiative The Resilience Authority of Annapolis a… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-cardin-announce-availability-of-over-130000-h-2b-visas-for-fiscal-year-2024-and-bipartisan-legislation-to-support-seafood-industrys-long-term-workforce-needs Van Hollen, Cardin Announce Availability of Over 130,000 H-2B Visas for Fiscal Year 2024 and Bipartisan Legislation to Support Seafood Industry’s Long-Term Workforce Needs 2023-12-18 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate MD Chris Van Hollen V000128 www.vanhollen.senate.gov vanhollen https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin (both D-Md.) welcomed the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s (DHS) release in November of 130,716 H-2B temporary nonagricultural worker visas for fiscal year 2024 as they announced that they have joined U.S. Senators Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), Mark Warner, and Tim Kaine (both D-Va.) in introducing bipartisan legislation to improve the H-2B program to help ensure Maryland seafood companies can hire the seasonal workforce they need to operate at full capacity. The fiscal year 2024 visa allocation total is comprised of the 66,000 H-2B visas that DHS can release annually under the Immigration and Nationality Act, as well as 64,716 supplemental visas authorized by the fiscal year 2023 government funding legislation and short-term continuing resolution (CR) that the Senators worked to pass. This visa program is essential for the operations of Maryland’s crab and seafood small businesses, which have historically employed foreign workers through it when domestic workers cannot be found to fill these positions. However, in recent years, the H-2B visa program has become an increasingly uncertain source of labor as economy-wide demand for the program has surged, ultimately squeezing out the seafood industry. The Senators’ legislation – the Save Our Seafood Act – addresses this issue by exempting seafood processors from the current annual 66,000-visa cap on the H-2B program. “Maryland’s seafood businesses – most of which are small and family-owned – not only process the iconic blue crabs that our state is known for, they also power an industry that contributes millions of dollars to our economy annually. That’s why we pressed the Administration to provide the maximum number of H-2B visas available in order to ensure these businesses have the workforce they need to operate. This is a key step to support our local businesses for the upcoming season, but it’s just as critical that we secure a long-term solution to provide certainty in the seasons to come. Our legislation offer… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-cardin-lead-bipartisan-vote-to-confirm-omalley-for-social-security-commissioner Van Hollen, Cardin Lead Bipartisan Vote to Confirm O’Malley for Social Security Commissioner 2023-12-18 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate MD Chris Van Hollen V000128 www.vanhollen.senate.gov vanhollen https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin (both D-Md.) praised the confirmation of former Maryland Governor Martin O’Malley to serve as the next Social Security Commissioner. The bipartisan vote Monday was 50-11. “Martin O’Malley understands the importance of Social Security to millions of Americans – including our seniors and those with disabilities. That’s why I was proud to support his confirmation today to lead the Social Security Administration. As the former chief executive of our state, I know he is committed to serving the American people and that he will be a great team leader for the public servants who power this Maryland-based agency. I’m confident in his commitment to protecting this vital earned benefit and delivering critical service for those who count on it,” said Senator Van Hollen. “Martin O’Malley’s extensive career in public service – including as Mayor of Baltimore and Governor of Maryland — has been underscored by transparency, accountability and progress. He will bring these same values to the Social Security Administration,” said Senator Cardin. “Social Security is a critical insurance policy that tens of millions of working Americans pay into every year so that benefits can be there when they are older, disabled or leave young children after death. Martin is a dedicated public servant who understands what Social Security means to our seniors, disability and survivor beneficiaries, and I am proud to support his confirmation as Social Security Commissioner.” The Social Security Administration (SSA), headquartered in Woodlawn, Md., near Baltimore, administers the Social Security programs (retirement and disability) and the Supplemental Security Income program (SSI, income support for low-income individuals who have not worked enough to qualify for Social Security). The agency has roughly 60,000 employees in Maryland and nationwide across the headquarters and 10 regional offices, six processing centers, 164 hearing offices and approximately 1,230 field offices. The SSA also, E-Verify… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-cardin-warner-kaine-push-to-fund-wmata-national-security-needs Van Hollen, Cardin, Warner, Kaine Push to Fund WMATA National Security Needs 2023-12-18 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate MD Chris Van Hollen V000128 www.vanhollen.senate.gov vanhollen https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper U.S. Senators Chris Van Hollen and Ben Cardin (both D-Md.) and Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-Va.) wrote to President Biden requesting that the administration include at least $30 million in their FY25 budget request for the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) to specifically address the agency’s operational costs related to national security and counterterrorism. This request comes as WMATA faces a $750 million budget shortfall that threatens safety and services starting next summer. In their letter, the senators stress that WMATA, more than other transit authorities, shoulders a heavy security burden because of its role in federal government operations and national security activities. The agency estimates that it spends between $30 and $33 million annually on operations relating to its national security and counterterrorism mission. “Given this sui generis role played by WMATA, it should come as no surprise that the agency shoulders some burdens that are unique among transit providers. Perhaps most important of these burdens is WMATA’s responsibility to prevent terrorism targeting our Nation’s capital—a responsibility far out of proportion to the size of the system,” the senators wrote. They continued, “Unfortunately, this responsibility is more than hypothetical. In 2010, an anti-government extremist opened fire at the Pentagon station. A year later, a man was convicted in connection with the targeting of four WMATA stations in a terrorist bomb plot. And let us not forget that it was a Metro Transit Police officer who, while assisting Capitol Police, discovered the bomb planted at the Democratic National Committee on January 6, 2021.” Senators Van Hollen, Cardin, Warner, and Kaine have long been active supporters of WMATA, working to secure critical funding, expand service, and improve safety. A copy of the letter is available here and below: Dear President Biden: We write today to respectfully request that the President’s budget request for Fiscal Year 2025 include at… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=BC99C4D2-3B9B-414D-BA5D-907F385ABC1F Warner Leads Virginia and Maryland Senate Delegation in Push to Fund WMATA National Security Needs 2023-12-18 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate VA Mark R. Warner W000805 www.warner.senate.gov warner https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases scraper WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner (D-VA), Chairman of the Senate Select Committee on Intelligence, and Sens. Tim Kaine (D-VA), Ben Cardin, and Chris Van Hollen (both D-MD) wrote to President Biden requesting that the administration include at least $30 million in their FY25 budget request for the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) to specifically address the agency’s operational costs related to national security and counterterrorism. This request comes as WMATA faces a $750 million budget shortfall that threatens safety and services starting next summer. In their letter, the senators stress that WMATA, more than other transit authorities, shoulders a heavy security burden because of its role in federal government operations and national security activities. The agency estimates that it spends between $30 and $33 million annually on operations relating to its national security and counterterrorism mission. “Given this sui generis role played by WMATA, it should come as no surprise that the agency shoulders some burdens that are unique among transit providers. Perhaps most important of these burdens is WMATA’s responsibility to prevent terrorism targeting our Nation’s capital—a responsibility far out of proportion to the size of the system,” the senators wrote. They continued, “Unfortunately, this responsibility is more than hypothetical. In 2010, an anti-government extremist opened fire at the Pentagon station. A year later, a man was convicted in connection with the targeting of four WMATA stations in a terrorist bomb plot. And let us not forget that it was a Metro Transit Police officer who, while assisting Capitol Police, discovered the bomb planted at the Democratic National Committee on January 6, 2021.” Sens. Warner, Kaine, Cardin, and Van Hollen have long been active supporters of WMATA, working to secure critical funding, expand service, and improve safety. A copy of the letter is available here and below: Dear President Biden: We write today to respectfully request t… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-begins-2024-with-seven-town-halls-in-central-and-eastern-oregon Wyden Begins 2024 With Seven Town Halls in Central & Eastern Oregon 2023-12-18 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate OR Ron Wyden W000779 www.wyden.senate.gov wyden https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper Portland – U.S. Senator Ron Wyden today announced he will begin his 2024 town hall schedule with seven in-person town halls the first week of January in Jefferson, Sherman, Morrow, Umatilla, Union, Baker and Malheur counties. Heading into these initial town halls of the new year, Wyden has held a total of 1,065 town halls throughout Oregon in fulfillment of his pledge to hold at least one town hall each year in each of Oregon’s 36 counties. “I’m very much looking forward to starting 2024 with these open-to-all town halls in the ongoing spirit of the ‘Oregon Way’ where anybody can ask questions, share opinions and suggest ideas,” Wyden said. “Heading into a new congressional year, these open-to-all town halls are especially timely because Oregonians in these counties can help shape legislative priorities for the next 12 months and beyond.” The schedule for the upcoming town halls is as follows: 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:56:20Z
https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/news/press-releases/baldwin-and-colleagues-demand-va-step-up-and-protect-veterans-from-prescription-drug-abuse Baldwin and Colleagues Demand VA Step Up and Protect Veterans from Prescription Drug Abuse 2023-12-15 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate WI Tammy Baldwin B001230 www.baldwin.senate.gov baldwin https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) joined five of her colleagues in pressing the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to take swift action to protect veterans seeking opioid prescriptions following concerning reports that found some providers of veterans’ health care are not meeting VA prescription opioids safety standards. “We write today to discuss our concerns with the Department of Veterans Affairs’ oversight of non-VA providers who prescribe opioids to veterans,” the Senators wrote in a letter to VA Secretary Denis McDonough. “In Fiscal Year 2022, the Department spent more than $27 billion in the community for health care services for veterans. VA must ensure the dollars it spends result in high-quality, safe care for veterans.” In 2017, the Department of Health and Human Services declared opioid deaths a public health emergency. At the time, studies indicated veterans were twice as likely to die from accidental opioid overdoses. To combat this, Congress included a provision in the VA MISSION Act of 2018 to ensure non-VA providers were informed of VA best practices and evidence-based guidelines when prescribing opioids under VA’s Opioid Safety Initiative (OSI). Congress also required third-party administrators responsible for contracting with VA community care providers to check their states prescription drug monitoring program to mitigate prescription drug abuse and overdose by veterans using VA community care. However, a recent report from the VA Office of Inspector General (OIG) found the third-party administrators failed to provide adequate oversight of whether Veterans Community Care Network health care providers were completing and certifying VA’s OSI training module. The OIG also found that approximately 14,700 of 18,200 non-VA providers in the Community Care Network who prescribed opioids to veterans in fiscal year 2021 had not completed VA’s OSI training module and did not certify their mandated review of VA’s guidelines. An additional VA OIG report found a similar lapse in overs… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/news/press-releases/baldwin-warren-lead-group-of-38-senators-in-introducing-resolution-affirming-support-for-medication-abortion Baldwin, Warren Lead Group of 38 Senators in Introducing Resolution Affirming Support for Medication Abortion 2023-12-15 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate WI Tammy Baldwin B001230 www.baldwin.senate.gov baldwin https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) led 38 other Senators in introducing a resolution in support of access to the widely used, safe medication abortion. This action comes as Americans continue to grapple with the reversal of Roe v. Wade, and follows this week’s announcement that the Supreme Court will hear a challenge to medication abortion access. “In Wisconsin and across the country, the right to comprehensive health care is under attack,” said Senator Baldwin. “We need to fight on all fronts to restore and protect the freedom of every American to make their own health care decisions, and that includes protecting access to medication abortion. Mifepristone is a safe, effective, and sometimes lifesaving medication, and it’s high time politicians and judges leave women alone and allow Americans to make their own decisions about their health, families, and future.” The resolution expresses the sense of Congress that the scientific judgment of the FDA that mifepristone is safe and effective should be respected, and that law and policy governing access to life-saving, time-sensitive medication abortion care in the United States should be equitable and based on science. The resolution affirms that mifepristone is safe and effective, while acknowledging the significant harm that would be posed to both health care providers and patients across the nation if mifepristone were sharply curtailed. Senator Baldwin is a steadfast advocate for women’s reproductive freedom, and is the lead sponsor of the Women’s Health Protection Act of 2023, federal legislation to guarantee access to abortion, everywhere across the country and restore the right to comprehensive reproductive health care for millions of Americans. The resolution was also co-sponsored by Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Sherrod Brown (D-OH), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Debb… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-schumer-lujan-and-tonko-introduce-bicameral-legislation-to-stop-cyber-grinches-from-ruining-kids-holidays Blumenthal, Schumer, Luján & Tonko Introduce Bicameral Legislation to Stop Cyber Grinches from Ruining Kids' Holidays 2023-12-15 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – With holiday shopping underway, U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer (D-NY), U.S. Senator Ben Ray Luján (D-NM), and U.S. Representative Paul Tonko (D-NY) introduced the Stopping Grinch Bots Act. The bicameral bill would prevent use of “bot” technology to quickly buy up entire inventories of popular toys and re-sell them at marked up prices. Third-party sellers use bots to manipulate online sales to buy toys, making inventory shortages worse and price gouging families shopping for the holidays. “Our measure aims to stop cyber Grinches from stealing the holidays,” said Blumenthal. “New tools are necessary to block these online grifters from buying up popular toys to resell them to parents at exorbitant prices. We must have zero tolerance for Grinch bots price gouging hot holiday toys.” “We cannot allow grinch bots to steal Christmas joy or money from hardworking Americans,” said Schumer. “These cyber scrooges systematically snatch up popular toys and gifts and then gouge parents who are desperate to get their loved ones the gifts they most want. No American should have to fork over hundreds – or even thousands – of excess charges to buy holiday gifts for loved ones, and this critical legislation makes sure that regulators have the tools to go after these bad actors.” “As the holiday season hits full swing, too many Americans are left vulnerable to the malicious practices of Grinch bots that manipulate the market and inflate prices,” said Luján. “The holidays are a time meant to be spent with family and loved ones. Americans should not be stressed financially by online algorithms that hoard high-demand toys and goods and resell them at huge margins. This critical legislation will protect New Mexico families during the holidays and year-round.” “Too many Americans have felt the disappointment and frustration of losing a popular toy to Grinch Bots — of spending hours scouring online stores in the hopes of finding an affordable gift or paying ex… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-and-colleagues-call-on-the-epa-to-protect-children-and-endangered-species-from-rodenticide-poisonings Booker and Colleagues Call on the EPA to Protect Children and Endangered Species From Rodenticide Poisonings 2023-12-15 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate NJ Cory A. Booker B001288 www.booker.senate.gov booker https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Alex Padilla (D-C.A.), Peter Welch (D-V.T.),Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), and Ed Markey (D-MA) wrote a letter to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Michael Regan urging the agency to adopt measures to protect children and endangered species from rodenticide poisoning. “We thank the EPA for issuing a proposal to strengthen protections for children and non-target species from rodenticides, and urge the EPA to approve strong mitigation measures,” the lawmakers wrote. “The current allowable use of rodenticides poses a threat to human health and endangered species. Rodenticides are powerful poisons that don’t just kill the target pests, but also kill non-target animals, including pets and predators of rodents. Further, rodenticides that are not properly secured threaten the safety of humans, particularly children, who may be poisoned when exposed to them.” The lawmakers detailed the risks of unsecured rodenticides, writing “rodenticides pose a risk of poisoning in households where the rodenticides are accessible to children and pets. From 2017-2021, the Centers for Disease Control reported 40,808 poisonings of humans from rodenticides. The majority of these exposures occurred in children under 5 years old.” “Further, rodenticides pose a persistent threat to non-target wildlife, especially threatened and endangered species. These poisonings impact predators, such as red-tailed hawks, barn owls, mountain lions, and the critically endangered California Condors, who consume the rodenticides through eating poisoned rodents. Other species, such as squirrels, opossum, raccoons, and the endangered Attwater’s prairie chicken, die by consuming the poison directly.” The Senators concluded by calling for a “careful, scientific review of the broader harms of the current uses of rodenticides, and ways these can be mitigated.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/bookers-schatz-van-hollen-welch-kaine-call-on-biden-to-urge-israeli-egyptian-governments-to-allow-journalists-into-gaza-protect-free-press Booker, Schatz, Van Hollen, Welch, Kaine Call on Biden to Urge Israeli, Egyptian Governments to Allow Journalists into Gaza, Protect Free Press 2023-12-15 2023 2023-12 Democrat Senate NJ Cory A. Booker B001288 www.booker.senate.gov booker https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Peter Welch (D-VT), and Tim Kaine (D-VA) today called on President Joe Biden to urge the governments of Israel and Egypt to allow journalists into Gaza to cover the war and protect press freedom. They also condemned Hamas’s use of propaganda and harassment, obstruction, and use of physical violence against journalists in Gaza. In their letter to the president, the senators underscored the importance of safe access into Gaza for journalists and the need for accurate and independent reporting from inside the warzone. “As Israel addresses legitimate and ongoing threats from Hamas, we ask you to further urge the Israeli government, as well as the Egyptian government, to respect press freedom by allowing all interested journalists to report without restriction from Gaza, with the exception of operational security requirements for embedded journalists, and provide journalists with the appropriate protections to carry out their essential work,” the senators wrote. “Without protections for journalists in Gaza and access for international journalists, the world is unable to get a complete and accurate understanding of events. Journalists play a vital role in a free society by holding individuals, organizations, and governments accountable for their actions. The lack of transparency caused by limited journalistic access is at odds with the obligation all governments have to allow citizens to access factual information. Especially in a time of rampant mis- and disinformation, journalists both provide the international community with up-to-date news about the war and equip the local population with potentially life-saving information about fast-changing developments.” The senators further noted concern that “the scale of the killings of journalists and media workers is unprecedented in recent times.” The senators continued, “American democracy rests on a bedrock commitment to a free press and we must insist on the same from … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z

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