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

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5,517 rows where chamber = "Senate", party = "Democrat" and year = 2024 sorted by date descending

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year 1

  • 2024 · 5,517 ✖

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  • Senate · 5,517 ✖
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.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/video-kaine-celebrates-legislative-accomplishments-for-virginia-from-2024 Video: Kaine Celebrates Legislative Accomplishments for Virginia from 2024 2024-12-31 2024 2024-12 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 highlighting wins for Virginia he secured in 2024. In the video, Kaine discussed various pieces of legislation he introduced that are now law, actions the Biden-Harris Administration took—following Kaine’s urging—to make our communities healthier and safer, and new ways laws he helped enact, like the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, CHIPS and Science Act, and Inflation Reduction Act, are continuing to bring massive investments and new jobs to the Commonwealth. “I’m proud of everything we’ve been able to accomplish this year, but I know that there’s still so much more work to do,” Kaine said. “… I look forward to building on this year’s progress, traveling around Virginia, showing up for you, listening to you, and then standing up for you in the years ahead. See you on the road in 2025.” Kaine’s 2024 accomplishments include: Legislation he successfully helped pass into law, including: The Social Security Fairness Act, bipartisan legislation that enhances Social Security benefits for more than 50,000 Virginians, including firefighters, police officers, and other dedicated public servants; The BOLD Act to help combat Alzheimer’s Disease; The Forgotten Heroes of the Holocaust Congressional Gold Medal Act, to honor the diplomats who helped save Jewish people during the Holocaust; The BRIDGE for Workers Act to help more Americans find good-paying jobs; The bipartisan Gabriella Miller Kids First Research Act 2.0, alongside Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton (D-VA), to reauthorize a program Kaine helped create in 2014 in honor of Gabriella Miller, a Virginian who spent her life advocating for children with cancer, to advance lifesaving research; And—also alongside Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton (D-VA)—the National Plan to End Parkinson’s Act to help address Parkinson’s Disease. Historic investments that have come to Virginia thanks to legislation Kaine helped pass, including: A $275 million investment in Micron’s Manass… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-releases-2024-end-of-year-report Murphy Releases 2024 End of Year Report 2024-12-31 2024 2024-12 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 Tuesday released his End of Year Report outlining the work he’s done for the people of Connecticut during 2024. The report details Murphy’s legislative priorities this year, including continuing to implement the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, building more social connection, fighting for 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 367 pieces of legislation, including 68 bills or resolutions as the lead sponsor. Completed his eighth Walk Across Connecticut: four days, 64 miles, 16 towns, and hundreds of people along the way. Traveled across the state, hosting 117 roundtables, listening sessions and more with Connecticut residents. Responded and reached out to Connecticut residents through over 383,000 calls, emails, and letters. Returned nearly $2 million to constituents, including owed Social Security payments, veterans’ benefits, tax refunds, and other savings from federal agencies. Helped over 3,300 constituents work through federal issues and get their owed benefits. Click here to download Senator Murphy’s 2024 End of Year Report. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-highlights-2024-accomplishments-in-year-end-round-up Duckworth Highlights 2024 Accomplishments in Year-End Round Up 2024-12-30 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – As 2024 comes to a close, U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) highlighted several key accomplishments she secured over the last year: “From helping almost 2,600 Illinoisans recover more than $11 million the Federal Government owed them to bringing home hundreds of millions of dollars to get the lead out of our children’s drinking water, and from protecting IVF access for hopeful parents across the nation to helping make flying safer and more efficient for traveling Illinoisans and travelers with disabilities, 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 while I know the year ahead may look different than many of us hoped it would, I also know there’s still much we can accomplish to help save working families money, end preventable gun violence, invest in communities that have been ignored for too long, advocate for Illinois on a global stage, support our troops while keeping the promises we’ve made to our Veterans as well as protect and defend our civil and reproductive rights—including guaranteeing access to IVF. I’m eager to get back to work on these goals and so many more for Illinois in 2025.” Over the past year, Duckworth and her office responded to nearly 900,000 emails and other messages as well as assisted more than 2,600 Illinoisans who were experiencing difficulties navigating the federal bureaucracy, helping recover more than $11.6 million in Social Security payments, Veterans’ benefits, tax refunds and more. A select list of Duckworth’s accomplishments from the past year is below. Key Accomplishments: Establishing the Springfield 1908 Race Riot Site as a National Monument: In August, Duckworth joined President Biden as he signed an official declaration to make the site of the 1908 Springfield Race Riot a national monument—a culmination of Duckworth’s more than five years of work to make it happen. Duckworth began calling for national monument recognition in 2018, fir… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/signed-into-law-senators-hassan-and-cornyns-bipartisan-bill-to-strengthen-border-security SIGNED INTO LAW: Senators Hassan and Cornyn’s Bipartisan Bill to Strengthen Border Security 2024-12-30 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate NH Margaret Wood Hassan H001076 www.hassan.senate.gov hassan https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – The President recently signed into law the DHS Border Services Contracts Review Act, which U.S. Senators Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and John Cornyn (R-TX) introduced. The bipartisan legislation requires the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to assess contracts for services performed along the U.S.-Mexico border and implement a plan to improve procurement and delivery of those services. “We need to continue working across the aisle to strengthen border security,” said Senator Hassan. “This bipartisan legislation is one additional way to better achieve that mission, and I am pleased that the President has signed it into law. It will help ensure that the Department of Homeland Security and its contractors are operating as effectively as possible at the border.” The DHS Office of Inspector General has previously reported instances when U.S. Customs and Border Protection failed to timely contract for adequate facilities at the Southern border. Senators Hassan and Cornyn’s legislation will mitigate this issue by requiring the DHS Under Secretary for Management to assess contracts valued at a minimum of $50 million for services performed by contractor personnel along the Southern border. DHS will also be required to develop a strategy and implementation plan to improve procurement and delivery of services. As part of the analysis, DHS is required to consider the impact of contracts on the ability of Border Patrol agents to carry out their primary mission responsibilities. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/warner-and-kaine-celebrate-inflation-reduction-acts-2000-per-year-cap-on-out-of-pocket-prescription-drug-costs-for-americans-with-medicare Warner & Kaine Celebrate Inflation Reduction Act’s $2,000 Per Year Cap on Out-Of-Pocket Prescription Drug Costs for Americans with Medicare 2024-12-30 2024 2024-12 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) celebrated a provision of the Inflation Reduction Act that will go into effect on January 1, 2025 to cap out-of-pocket costs for prescription drugs at $2,000 per year for Americans with Medicare Part D. The cap will apply to individuals’ combined, total costs for covered drugs—regardless of how many medications they need. Some estimates have shown that Virginians on Medicare will save an average of $440.62 on out-of-pocket costs on prescription drugs thanks to this cap. “The Inflation Reduction Act has already made a huge difference in the lives of Virginians. It’s capped the price of insulin at $35 per month for seniors, lowered health care and energy costs, brought millions of dollars in investment to Virginia, and created manufacturing jobs—all while lowering the deficit,” said the senators. “We’re thrilled that beginning in 2025, Americans on Medicare will have a $2,000 per year out-of-pocket cap on prescription drugs. Many seniors currently pay thousands of dollars a year for medications they need, so this provision is crucial to saving them money. We will keep working to build on this progress and ensure that Virginia harnesses all the benefits of the Inflation Reduction Act.” In 2025, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is also expected to announce 15 more Medicare Part D drugs for negotiation. The IRA allowed CMS to negotiate the price of prescription drugs for the first time—a move Warner and Kaine had long pushed for. This year, the Biden Administration announced negotiated prices for the first 10 drugs for patients covered by Medicare Part D. The negotiated prices for the first 10 drugs, which will go into effect in 2026, will save $1.5 billion for Americans with Medicare Part D and $6 billion in the federal budget in the first year of implementation. Many other provisions from the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), which the senators voted to pass in 2022, have already gone into effect to lower health care c… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases/over-the-last-year-schatz-secured-more-than-6-billion-to-support-mauis-recovery-build-more-housing-improve-infrastructure-expand-high-speed-internet-and-advance-other-priorities-across-hawaii Over The Last Year, Schatz Secured More Than $6 Billion To Support Maui’s Recovery, Build More Housing, Improve Infrastructure, Expand High-Speed Internet & Advance Other Priorities Across Hawai‘i 2024-12-30 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate HI Brian Schatz S001194 www.schatz.senate.gov schatz https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper HONOLULU – In 2024, U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) helped secure more than $6 billion in federal funding for Hawai‘i as he led efforts to deliver resources to support Maui’s recovery from last year’s fires and advance a range of other priorities for the state. Earlier this month, Schatz announced an estimated $1.6 billion in new funding for Maui’s continued recovery, aimed at building permanent housing for survivors, in addition to almost $500 million to support economic development, small business needs, water infrastructure, and more. The funding was approved following efforts led by Schatz for more than a year to press the need for long-term disaster aid both in Congress and with the Biden administration. “Survivors on Maui are doing everything they can to recover – but they can’t do it alone. That’s why getting funding to build housing – which remains the top priority – was so important,” said Senator Schatz. “People can’t fully recover without stable, permanent housing, and it’s critical that homes now get built as quickly as possible.” Senator Schatz added, “We also delivered significant funding this year to improve infrastructure of all kinds, expand access to high-speed internet, and help people transition to clean energy. Tackling Hawai‘i’s housing shortage is one of the biggest challenges of our time – and the new investments to encourage pro-housing policies and build housing on Hawaiian home lands are just the start. Whether it’s increasing SNAP benefits for families or preserving telehealth access or pushing to strengthen Hawai‘i’s security, we made real progress this year to help people across the state.” Earlier this year, Schatz, who chairs the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (THUD), helped secure more than $6.6 million to build housing across the state by removing regulatory barriers that drive up the cost of housing. The funding came from a first-of-its-kind national program created by Schatz – the Pathways to Removing Obstacles to Ho… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=A046445E-BBF0-4B67-AE86-F68A477CFE95 Warner & Kaine Celebrate Inflation Reduction Act's $2,000 per Year Cap on Out-of-Pocket Prescription Drug Costs for Americans with Medicare 2024-12-30 2024 2024-12 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) celebrated a provision of the Inflation Reduction Act that will go into effect on January 1, 2025 to cap out-of-pocket costs for prescription drugs at $2,000 per year for Americans with Medicare Part D. The cap will apply to individuals’ combined, total costs for covered drugs—regardless of how many medications they need. Some estimates have shown that Virginians on Medicare will save an average of $440.62 on out-of-pocket costs on prescription drugs thanks to this cap. “The Inflation Reduction Act has already made a huge difference in the lives of Virginians. It’s capped the price of insulin at $35 per month for seniors, lowered health care and energy costs, brought millions of dollars in investment to Virginia, and created manufacturing jobs—all while lowering the deficit,” said the senators. “We’re thrilled that beginning in 2025, Americans on Medicare will have a $2,000 per year out-of-pocket cap on prescription drugs. Many seniors currently pay thousands of dollars a year for medications they need, so this provision is crucial to saving them money. We will keep working to build on this progress and ensure that Virginia harnesses all the benefits of the Inflation Reduction Act.” In 2025, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is also expected to announce 15 more Medicare Part D drugs for negotiation. The IRA allowed CMS to negotiate the price of prescription drugs for the first time—a move Warner and Kaine had long pushed for. This year, the Biden Administration announced negotiated prices for the first 10 drugs for patients covered by Medicare Part D. The negotiated prices for the first 10 drugs, which will go into effect in 2026, will save $1.5 billion for Americans with Medicare Part D and $6 billion in the federal budget in the first year of implementation. Many other provisions from the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), which the senators voted to pass in 2022, have already gone into effect to lower health care costs and … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.bennet.senate.gov/2024/12/29/bennet-statement-on-passing-of-president-jimmy-carter/ Bennet Statement on Passing of President Jimmy Carter 2024-12-29 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CO Michael F. Bennet B001267 www.bennet.senate.gov bennet https://www.bennet.senate.gov/news/page/ scraper Denver — Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet released the below statement following the death of President Jimmy Carter: “President Jimmy Carter campaigned on telling the truth to the American people, and he kept his promise. He was a devoted family man, principled statesman, and champion for rural communities. His post-presidency set a global standard for dignity and selflessness. Susan and I join Colorado in mourning his loss and recommitting ourselves to the common good he espoused.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-statement-on-the-passing-of-former-president-jimmy-carter Blumenthal Statement on the Passing of Former President Jimmy Carter 2024-12-29 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [WASHINGTON, DC] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) today released the below statement following the passing of Former President Jimmy Carter: “Jimmy Carter was a public servant for all seasons—leading by example, passionately and unstintingly, over deeply different and sometimes difficult phases of his life and the nation’s. “The diversity and longevity of his public service is staggering—as a military officer, Governor and President, home builder, health care activist, and much more. He certainly showed that leadership in elected office is only one of many ways to give back to our great nation. He believed fervently in the opportunity and obligation of every single person to make a difference and better the lives of others. I’ll always be grateful for his appointing me as U.S. Attorney for Connecticut, which is how I first came to know him. “While some disagreed with his political views or positions, none could doubt his sincerity and decency, his faith and humanity. He built a legacy of giving back—personifying the adage that there’s no limit to the good you can do if you don’t care who gets the credit.” Blumenthal was appointed to be the U.S. Attorney for Connecticut by President Carter and served in that role for four years during the Carter Administration. -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-statement-on-passing-of-president-jimmy-carter/ Gillibrand Statement On Passing Of President Jimmy Carter 2024-12-29 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate NY Kirsten E. Gillibrand G000555 www.gillibrand.senate.gov gillibrand https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/ scraper Today, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand released the following statement on the death of President Jimmy Carter: “President Jimmy Carter was a devoted public servant, a lifelong activist, and a prolific humanitarian. I am devastated to hear of his passing, but I know that his legacy will live on through the work of the Carter Center and the thousands of people he influenced throughout his life. My thoughts are with his family today. He will be deeply missed.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-hassan-statement-on-death-of-former-president-jimmy-carter Senator Hassan Statement on Death of Former President Jimmy Carter 2024-12-29 2024 2024-12 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 released the following statement regarding the death of former President Jimmy Carter: “Jimmy Carter dedicated his life to building a more equitable country and world. As President, he strengthened our education system, protected the environment, and helped make possible the historic peace treaty between Israel and Egypt. In the years following his presidency, he continued to lead international peace-keeping efforts and championed human rights. "President Carter made it his mission to improve the lives of Americans and people around the world. His commitments to building a more perfect union and advancing peace have helped to leave this world better than he found it. I join with people across New Hampshire, our country, and the world today in mourning his loss, and my prayers are with his loved ones at this time." ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-statement-on-president-jimmy-carter Heinrich Statement on President Jimmy Carter 2024-12-29 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) released the following statement in recognition of the life of former U.S. President and Nobel Peace Prize winner Jimmy Carter. “Jimmy Carter devoted his life to serving others, seeking peace, and improving the world around him. “From creating the Department of Energy to protecting our rivers and wildlands in New Mexico, Alaska, and elsewhere, President Carter’s legacy was forward-looking, thoughtful, and visionary. Above everything, he stood tall for working people, never relenting in the fight for a better economic future for all. “At a time of great polarization and partisan divide in our nation, I hope each of us can draw from President Carter’s constant example of compassion, humility, and decency.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=C491D691-7010-4363-8E41-DD985E6D9CBF Klobuchar Statement on the Passing of President Jimmy Carter 2024-12-29 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate MN Amy Klobuchar K000367 www.klobuchar.senate.gov klobuchar https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases scraper MINNESOTA – U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) released the following statement on the passing of President Jimmy Carter. “Today, America mourns the loss of President Jimmy Carter — a husband, dad, grandpa, veteran, farmer, and lifelong public servant. President Carter earned a special place in the hearts of Minnesotans when he invited Senator Walter Mondale to join his presidential ticket. On the wall in the Carter Museum in Atlanta are Vice President Mondale’s words uttered shortly after their 1980 defeat, summing up their four years in office: “We told the truth. We obeyed the law. We kept the peace.” Minnesota will always remember the “Grits and Fritz” ticket, but President Carter gave our nation that and more. Even during a period of economic uncertainty, he made key advancements in protecting the environment, expanding access to health care, bolstering Social Security, and strengthening America’s leadership on the world stage. In the years following his presidency, President Carter showed the world that public service transcends public office. He founded the Carter Center, which to this day is advancing peace, public health, and human rights across the globe. His devotion to serving others continued until the very end — so many of us were moved by the videos of him building homes alongside fellow Habitat for Humanity volunteers in his final years. I was lucky enough to share several wonderful memories with President Carter in his hometown of Plains, Georgia. We prayed together at Maranatha Baptist Church, I watched him teach Sunday school, and we shared pimento cheese sandwiches. Each time, his profound faith was clearly on display. As President Carter reunites with his beloved wife Rosalynn, we should recognize his passing for what it is — the culmination of a life well lived. He will be remembered not as a politician, but as an unrelenting force for good. John’s and my prayers are with Jack, Chip, Jeff, Amy, and the entire Carter family at this time.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/-murphy-statement-on-death-of-president-jimmy-carter Murphy Statement on Death of President Jimmy Carter 2024-12-29 2024 2024-12 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.) released the following statement on the death of President Jimmy Carter: “Few people have modeled what it means to live a life dedicated to the service of others more than President Jimmy Carter. He led with compassion, humility, and moral clarity even when it came at a political cost. Helping others was his calling, and President Carter didn’t need the White House to change millions of lives. From his work at the Carter Center to volunteering with Habitat for Humanity, he worked every day to build a more just world. “In a 1979 speech, President Carter warned the nation we have two paths to choose from – one toward fragmentation and self-interest and another toward common purpose. It’s a warning that rings true still today. “My heart is with the Carter family as the nation mourns the loss of a giant.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-statement-on-the-life-and-legacy-of-former-president-jimmy-carter Reed Statement on the Life & Legacy of Former President Jimmy Carter 2024-12-29 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate RI Jack Reed R000122 www.reed.senate.gov jackreed https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases scraper WASHINGTON, DC -- Today, U.S. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI) issued the following statement on the passing of James Earl “Jimmy” Carter Jr., 100, who served as the 39th President of the United States from 1977 to 1981 and went on to win the Nobel Peace Prize in 2002: “From the Naval Academy to the White House to Habitat for Humanity, Jimmy Carter led a life of public service and personal integrity. He and his late, beloved wife, Rosalyn, were true champions for human rights, peace, and democracy. Whether it was serving in the Navy or in office, President Carter dedicated his life to public service. He was ahead of his time on issues like climate change, clean energy, and environmental conservation. Jimmy Carter was a man of uncommon principle, compassion, caring, kindness, and faith who truly lived his values and made the world a better place.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases/schatz-statement-on-the-passing-of-former-president-jimmy-carter Schatz Statement On The Passing Of Former President Jimmy Carter 2024-12-29 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate HI Brian Schatz S001194 www.schatz.senate.gov schatz https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper HONOLULU – U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) issued the following statement after the death of former President Jimmy Carter: “I join Americans across the country in mourning the loss of former President Jimmy Carter. As president, he worked to protect the environment, expand clean energy, champion human rights, and advance Middle East peace. After leaving office, he spent decades helping the less fortunate, in America and around the world. His legacy of service, kindness, and generosity will live on. My deepest condolences go out to the entire Carter family.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-statement-on-passing-of-us-president-jimmy-carter Shaheen Statement on Passing of U.S. President Jimmy Carter 2024-12-29 2024 2024-12 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) issued the following statement on the passing of U.S. President Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of the United States of America: “I’m devastated by the passing of my mentor and friend, Jimmy Carter, and join the nation in grieving the loss of this incredible leader,” said Shaheen. “He led this country with empathy, grace and determination, and I owe my journey in politics to him. From working on his primary presidential campaign in New Hampshire in 1975, I became inspired by his compassion for people and vision to make this country a better place. The values he passionately advocated for inspired my run for office, and I’ve made it my mission in the Senate to take the mantle of fighting for working families and justice. We have lost a titan of American politics, but our country is better for his unwavering service. I join with all Granite Staters in keeping the Carter family in our thoughts. May he rest in peace.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=1B86752D-AA8A-4990-9663-4F0FC6B3E504 Statement of U.S. Sen. Mark R. Warner on the Passing of Former President Jimmy Carter 2024-12-29 2024 2024-12 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) issued the following statement on the passing of former President Jimmy Carter: “Jimmy Carter blazed a trail from the peanut fields of Plains, Georgia to the Navy, the Governor’s Mansion, the White House, and to a remarkable post-presidential career – modeling leadership, philanthropy, and love of country every step of the way. We lost a giant. “Jimmy Carter gave me my first job out of law school, and I have deeply admired his service since leaving the Oval Office. His dedication to building homes through Habitat for Humanity has always brought back warm memories of my father, who also volunteered with the organization well into his eighties. Like much of the Greatest Generation, President Carter will be remembered by what he built and left behind for us – a model of service late into life, a tireless devotion to family and philanthropy, and a more peaceful world to call home.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=239A2EF6-9609-4E16-AC9E-671633560D17 Klobuchar Statement on the Passing of State Senator Kari Dziedzic 2024-12-28 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate MN Amy Klobuchar K000367 www.klobuchar.senate.gov klobuchar https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases scraper MINNESOTA – U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) released the following statement on the passing of Minnesota State Senator and former DFL Senate Majority Leader Kari Dziedzic. Kari Dziedzic was an incredible public servant who gave so much to our state. She long served as my state Senator and I got to see firsthand how she listened to and worked with the people in the district and how effective she was. She governed with strength and calm and grace and was able to get big things done without political drama. That earned her the respect of her colleagues on both sides of the aisle. Our family’s prayers are with Kari’s friends and family during this difficult time. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/icymi-permanent-subcommittee-on-investigations-releases-report-and-supporting-documents-in-coast-guard-sexual-misconduct-cover-up ICYMI: Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations Releases Report & Supporting Documents in Coast Guard Sexual Misconduct Cover-Up 2024-12-27 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [WASHINGTON, DC] – U.S. Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations (PSI) Chair Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Ranking Member Ron Johnson (R-WI) released a bipartisan interim staff report on their inquiry into the Coast Guard’s efforts to conceal the investigation into mishandled cases of sexual assault and harassment at the Coast Guard Academy. The report, Coast Guard Efforts to Conceal the Operation Fouled Anchor Investigation from Congress and the Public, includes several newly released documents, among which is an email explaining that then-Commandant Admiral Schultz chose not to affirmatively disclose Operation Fouled Anchor to either Congress or the public based on the continuing nature of the investigation. This email was sent the same day that a briefing by the Coast Guard to Congress on Operation Fouled Anchor was scheduled to take place – effectively engaging in a cover-up. Additional evidence further suggests that the Coast Guard took affirmative steps to remove references to Operation Fouled Anchor from internal Coast Guard communications which Congress had requested as part of an inquiry into harassment, bullying, and retaliation at the Coast Guard Academy. “This report provides additional evidence that the highest levels of Coast Guard leadership engaged in a purposeful and long-term cover-up of widespread sexual assault and harassment allegations at the Coast Guard Academy,” Blumenthal and Johnson said. “The survivors of this misconduct deserve an explanation, and so does the public.” Background on the Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations Inquiry into the Coast Guard In September 2023, PSI opened a bipartisan inquiry into the Coast Guard’s internal review of sexual assault and harassment cases that occurred between 1990 and 2006, which was called Operation Fouled Anchor. The Subcommittee’s inquiry has focused on the Coast Guard’s original mishandling of these cases and the Coast Guard’s failure to reveal the conclusion of Operation Fouled Anchor, and its associated report, to Congress a… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/signed-into-law-senators-hassan-and-cornyns-bipartisan-bill-to-help-prevent-child-abuse SIGNED INTO LAW: Senators Hassan and Cornyn's Bipartisan Bill to Help Prevent Child Abuse 2024-12-27 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate NH Margaret Wood Hassan H001076 www.hassan.senate.gov hassan https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper AUSTIN – U.S. Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Maggie Hassan (D-NH), and Ben Ray Luján (D-NM) released the following statements after their Jenna Quinn Law, which would allow current grant funds to be used to train and educate students, teachers, caregivers, and other adults who work with children in a professional or volunteer capacity on how to prevent, recognize, and report child sexual abuse, was signed into law earlier this week. The bill is named for Jenna Quinn, a Texan and child abuse survivor, and is modeled after successful reforms passed by the Texas Legislature in 2009. “Inspired by Texan Jenna Quinn, our landmark legislation modeled after successful reforms in Texas will ensure every student, teacher, and caregiver across the country has the tools to recognize and prevent abuse of vulnerable children,” said Sen. Cornyn. “This law is years in the making, and I want to thank the bill’s namesake, Jenna Quinn, Representatives Moran and McCaul, and all of my colleagues in Congress for their support.” “Members of both parties are united in our mission to find additional ways to keep children safe from sexual abuse,” said Sen. Hassan. “Our bipartisan legislation will help ensure that parents, teachers, and other community members receive evidence-based training to help protect children from sexual abuse." “Every child deserves protection from abuse. Ensuring all adults, teachers, and caregivers are equipped with the knowledge to identify, prevent, and report child sexual abuse is a necessary and life-saving mechanism,” said Sen. Luján. “Jenna’s Law is implemented across several states – including New Mexico – and should be federally recognized. I’m proud that this legislation was signed into law, bringing us one step closer to providing funding to train and educate students, teachers, and parents on best practices to prevent and report abuse.” Sen. Mike Braun (R-IN) also cosponsored this legislation, and Representatives Nathaniel Moran (TX-01), Michael McCaul (TX-10), and Susan Wild (PA-07) led the legislat… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/signed-into-law-senators-hassan-and-hyde-smiths-bipartisan-legislation-to-benefit-national-guard-reserve-students SIGNED INTO LAW: Senators Hassan and Hyde-Smith’s Bipartisan Legislation to Benefit National Guard, Reserve Students 2024-12-27 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate NH Margaret Wood Hassan H001076 www.hassan.senate.gov hassan https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – In case you missed it, the annual defense bill signed into law earlier this week includes bipartisan legislation from U.S. Senators Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS) to ensure that students who serve in the National Guard or Reserves will be guaranteed readmission to their schools following a mobilization. “Students in the Reserves and the National Guard sacrifice to serve their communities and our country, and they shouldn’t have to jeopardize their spot in school because they were called to duty,” said Senator Hassan. “I am pleased that the latest national defense bill provides a measure that will ensure that student National Guard and Reserve members who are mobilized for short missions will have the security of knowing that their spot in school will be waiting for them.” “Many Guard and Reserve deployments last fewer than 30 days, putting numerous students who have volunteered to serve our nation at risk of having their educational pursuits derailed,” Hyde-Smith said. “I’m pleased the FY2025 NDAA includes an overdue fix to this problem.” The SERVE Act removes a “more than 30 days” stipulation in the law that only requires colleges and universities to readmit servicemembers who are deployed for more than 30 days. Prior to this bill, National Guard and Reserve members mobilized for fewer than 30 days were not universally entitled to be promptly readmitted. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/signed-into-law-hassan-backed-bipartisan-bill-to-support-autism-research SIGNED INTO LAW: Hassan-Backed Bipartisan Bill to Support Autism Research 2024-12-26 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate NH Margaret Wood Hassan H001076 www.hassan.senate.gov hassan https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – A bipartisan bill, backed by U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan, to support autism education, research, and resources has been signed into law. The Autism CARES Act of 2024 renews and expands federal support for research, services, and training related to autism spectrum disorder and other developmental disabilities. Senator Hassan, a member of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, & Pensions (HELP) Committee, helped advance this legislation through the Senate. “Individuals with autism deserve the best opportunities possible to thrive,” said Senator Hassan. “This bipartisan legislation will help advance autism research and education efforts. I am glad that the President has signed this bill into law, and I will continue to work to support people who experience disabilities.” This legislation is part of Senator Hassan’s ongoing efforts to support people who experience disabilities. In May, Senator Hassan’s provision to increase access to universal changing stations in airports was signed into law as part of the bipartisan Federal Aviation Administration reauthorization. Additionally, Senator Hassan helped secure funding to help families of children experiencing disabilities navigate the special education process and better access the resources available for children experiencing disabilities as part of a bipartisan government funding package. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=43C74E92-7898-43A6-9FA1-DC0C2459DB8F Bipartisan Klobuchar Legislation to Designate the Bald Eagle as the National Bird is Signed into Law 2024-12-26 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate MN Amy Klobuchar K000367 www.klobuchar.senate.gov klobuchar https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases scraper Senators Amy Klobuchar and Tina Smith introduced the legislation in the Senate. Representatives Brad Finstad and Angie Craig led companion legislation in the House of Representatives. WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar announced her legislation to designate the bald eagle as the National Bird of the United States has been signed into law. This legislation was co-sponsored by Tina Smith (D-MN), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), Markwayne Mullin (R-OK). Representatives Brad Finstad (R-MN) and Angie Craig (D-MN) led companion legislation in the House of Representatives. “In Minnesota, we know a thing or two about eagles: we are home to one of the largest populations of bald eagles in the country as well as the National Eagle Center in Wabasha,” said Klobuchar. “The bald eagle is a symbol of our country’s freedom and strength and with our legislation now signed into law, the bald eagle is officially our national bird.” “This is an exciting day. The Bald Eagle has symbolized American ideals since its placement on the Great Seal in 1782,” said Preston Cook, Co-Chair of the National Bird Initiative for the National Eagle Center and author of American Eagle - A Visual History of Our National Emblem. “With this legislation, we honor its historic role and solidify its place as our national bird and an emblem of our national identity.” The bald eagle has proudly been depicted as the national symbol of the United States since June 20, 1782, when our country’s Founding Fathers at the Second Continental Congress approved the Great Seal of the United States. Since that time, the bald eagle design has gone on to appear on official documents, currency, flags, public buildings, sports teams, and other government-related items. Today, the bald eagle is synonymous with American life and this legislation will officially designate it as the National Bird of the United States. In the Senate, the legislation was led by Klobuchar and Senators Tina Smith (D-MN), Cynthia Lummis (R-WY), and Markwayne Mullin (R-OK). Companion legislation was … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases?ID=67A111C6-912D-44A0-BC9E-14484A8C2DAD Klobuchar Statement on the Passing of Former State Representative Mary Murphy 2024-12-26 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate MN Amy Klobuchar K000367 www.klobuchar.senate.gov klobuchar https://www.klobuchar.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/news-releases scraper MINNESOTA – U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) released the following statement on the passing of former Minnesota State Representative Mary Murphy. “Mary Murphy was an incredible Minnesotan who dedicated her life to serving the Northland. As a former teacher, she was a strong advocate for improving education for our children and she also fought to protect victims of domestic violence and stalking. Mary was in so many ways ahead of her time and was often the only woman at the table in northern Minnesota. That’s changed now thanks to her trailblazing legacy. John and I send our deepest condolences to Mary’s friends and family.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.bennet.senate.gov/2024/12/24/bennet-sends-nine-bills-to-the-presidents-desk/ Bennet Sends Nine Bills to the President’s Desk 2024-12-24 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CO Michael F. Bennet B001267 www.bennet.senate.gov bennet https://www.bennet.senate.gov/news/page/ scraper Bennet-Led Legislation to Protect Kids in Foster Care, Build Affordable Housing, Invest in Rural Communities Included in End-of-Year Packages Denver — Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet passed nine pieces of legislation through the House and Senate over the past month and sent them to President Biden’s desk to be signed into law. This legislation includes provisions from: Forest Service Flexible Housing Partnerships Act Stop the Spread of Invasive Mussels Act Good Samaritan Remediation of Abandoned Hardrock Mines Act Summit of the Americas Act Protecting America’s Children by Strengthening Families Act Rural Outdoor Investment Act Colorado River Salinity Control Fix Act Coordinating AUKUS Engagement with Japan Act of 2024 Women’s Suffrage National Monument Location Act In case you missed it, here’s what they’re saying: Colorado Newsline: Colorado Democrats, outdoor recreation groups cheer Senate passage of public lands bill “While chaos in the U.S. House of Representatives threatened to trigger a government shutdown just before the holidays, Colorado Democrats and outdoor recreation advocates cheered the passage of a wide-ranging public lands bill in the Senate on Thursday. “The bipartisan Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Experiences or EXPLORE Act was unanimously approved by the Senate after being passed by the House earlier this year. It now heads to President Joe Biden to be signed into law. “The EXPLORE Act includes a variety of measures aimed at protecting certain recreational uses of federally owned public lands, simplifying permitting procedures for federal land management and ensuring equal access for people with disabilities, military veterans and young people.” … “The Stop the Spread of Invasive Mussels Act, also sponsored by Colorado U.S. Sen. Michael Bennet, aims to strengthen coordination between federal and state agencies responding to the spread of invasive species, including by giving the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation the authority to fund response programs, improving dat… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/01/06/2025/signed-into-law-annual-defense-bill-with-key-hassan-backed-provisions SIGNED INTO LAW: Annual Defense Bill with Key Hassan-Backed Provisions 2024-12-24 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate NH Margaret Wood Hassan H001076 www.hassan.senate.gov hassan https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – The President signed into law the bipartisan National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2025, including key provisions that Senator Maggie Hassan secured and supported. Among other measures, the legislation includes a 14.5 percent pay raise for junior enlisted service members and a 4.5 percent raise for all other service members. “Service members sacrifice to keep our country safe, secure, and free, and our bipartisan annual defense bill will further support them in their mission,” said Senator Hassan. “This bill will also strengthen our national security – including by taking on China – and it delivers for the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard and other New Hampshire priorities.” Key measures to strengthen national security and support service members supported by Senator Hassan: The SERVE Act, introduced by Senators Hassan and Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-MS), which will guarantee readmission to colleges and universities for National Guard and Reserve members after a mobilization or deployment A 14.5 percent pay raise for junior enlisted service members and a 4.5 percent pay raise for all service members Taking on China and Russia by: Prohibiting the Defense Department from contracting with any entity that provides semiconductor products to Chinese telecom company Huawei Strengthening intelligence sharing to help counter Chinese trafficking of fentanyl and fentanyl precursors Increasing investments in the Pacific Deterrence Initiative and establishing the Taiwan Security Cooperation Initiative Directing the Defense Department to report on its efforts to identify and apply lessons learned from the war in Ukraine in order to strengthen U.S. national security efforts Establishing a counter-UAS (commonly referred to as drones) task force for U.S. military installations; requiring a counter-UAS strategy for Defense Department facilities, assets, and personnel in the U.S.; and providing greater resources for counter-UAS technologies Increasing access to contraception by eliminating co-pays for w… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/12/24/2024/van-hollen-schatz-booker-introduce-bill-to-harden-our-infrastructure-against-impacts-of-climate-change Van Hollen, Schatz, Booker Introduce Bill to Harden Our Infrastructure Against Impacts of Climate Change 2024-12-24 2024 2024-12 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 (D-Md.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), and Cory Booker (D-N.J.) have reintroduced their Federal Flood Risk Management Act, legislation to ensure that federally-funded infrastructure projects are built to withstand the impacts of climate change and flooding. “From increasingly devastating storms to more frequent severe flooding, communities across Maryland and the country are contending with the consequences of the climate crisis every day. This legislation will help ensure taxpayer dollars are spent wisely on infrastructure that is built to withstand the challenges of climate change as we continue the fight to protect our planet,” said Senator Van Hollen. “As temperatures and sea levels continue to rise, the effects of climate change will be more and more acutely felt across the country. As this happens, we must implement more policies to prepare for extreme weather events, like severe flooding. This bill would ensure that the federal government is fully considering and managing the growing flood risk across our nation, investing in resilient infrastructure, and further protecting communities from the threat of climate change,” said Senator Booker. Understanding the dangerous and costly consequences of flooding, the Obama Administration set standards in 2015 to make sure that federal projects were able to stand up to these risks. The order also took into account how climate change is impacting weather and sea levels. But early on in his first Administration, President-Elect Trump signed an executive order undoing this important work. Throughout the four years of the first Trump Administration, the Senators repeatedly pushed back against this effort and introduced the Federal Flood Risk Management Act to codify the standards set forth by President Obama. As Congress prepares for a second Trump Administration, the Senators are reintroducing this important legislation to ensure that we invest in our nation by making resilient investments that take into account the impacts of climate chan… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.bennet.senate.gov/2024/12/23/bennet-cheers-senate-passage-of-bill-to-support-colorado-children-in-foster-care/ Bennet Cheers Senate Passage of Bill to Support Colorado Children in Foster Care 2024-12-23 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CO Michael F. Bennet B001267 www.bennet.senate.gov bennet https://www.bennet.senate.gov/news/page/ scraper After Passing House, Unanimous Senate Approval Sends Legislation to the President’s Desk Denver — Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet celebrated Senate passage of the Protecting America’s Children by Strengthening Families Act. The bipartisan legislation, which had already passed the U.S. House of Representatives with a strong bipartisan vote, reauthorizes and improves child welfare programs that promote family unity and the safety and well-being of children. The legislation now heads to the President’s desk to be signed into law. “We have a responsibility to ensure that every kid in America grows up in a loving and supportive home. This legislation cuts through bureaucracy and provides a critical, flexible investment for the welfare of our nation’s children,” said Bennet. “I’m grateful for my colleagues’ strong bipartisan support to pass this legislation so communities in Colorado and throughout the country continue to have the flexibility they need to keep kids safe and families together.” “Creating a safe, healthy, and supportive environment at home is the first step to helping Texas children thrive,” said Cornyn. “This legislation would make strategic and evidence-backed improvements to ensure a 360-degree support system is in place for children in foster care nationwide.” This legislation would reauthorize Title IV-B of the Social Security Act for five years and improve its child welfare programs by: Increasing funding by $75 million a year; Expanding evidence-based services to prevent child abuse and neglect; Increasing access to training for caseworkers and improving recruitment and retention efforts to address caseworker shortage and bolster the workforce; Reducing administrative burden; Providing grant funding for the Court Improvement Program to support child legal proceedings; Streamlining access to funding, including for Indian tribes; and Strengthening support systems for relatives and family transitions, including children entering into kinship diversion, exiting foster care, or transiti… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.bennet.senate.gov/2024/12/23/bennet-hickenlooper-celebrate-final-passage-of-bipartisan-water-infrastructure-bill/ Bennet, Hickenlooper Celebrate Final Passage of Bipartisan Water Infrastructure Bill 2024-12-23 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CO Michael F. Bennet B001267 www.bennet.senate.gov bennet https://www.bennet.senate.gov/news/page/ scraper Legislation Includes Colorado Priorities to Manage Flood Risk, Promote Healthy Waterways Denver — Colorado U.S. Senators Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper celebrated the final passage of the bipartisan Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) which includes Colorado priorities to manage flood risk and promote healthy waterways. WRDA is passed every two years to authorize projects that address water management, flood control, ecosystem restoration, and long-term clean water priorities. The legislation now heads to President Biden’s desk to be signed into law. “Colorado and the West are on the front lines of climate change. That’s why it’s more important than ever to invest in water infrastructure that can meet our state’s changing needs,” said Bennet. “I’m grateful for the passage of this important package to protect Colorado’s vital waterways and resources.” “These investments equip our communities with more resilient infrastructure,” said Hickenlooper. “We need to harden our infrastructure to be sure we can handle more erratic weather.” The final legislation includes the following Colorado projects: $20 million authorized for El Paso County to address water supply and stormwater management; $50 million authorized for Fremont County for water supply infrastructure needs; A feasibility study of a project to restore ecosystems along Monument and Fountain Creeks and to rehabilitate the Templeton Gap Levee in Colorado Springs; A U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) and U.S. Government Accountability Office study to help speed the completion of two projects to promote healthy waterways along the South Platte River and neighboring water systems in the Denver area; and A boost in the federal share for assistance from USACE for Continuing Authorities Programs (CAPs) to allow USACE to participate in smaller-scale projects to reduce flood damages and restore aquatic ecosystems. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.bennet.senate.gov/2024/12/23/bennet-hickenlooper-welcome-341-million-to-cut-methane-emissions-in-colorado/ Bennet, Hickenlooper Welcome $341 Million to Cut Methane Emissions in Colorado 2024-12-23 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CO Michael F. Bennet B001267 www.bennet.senate.gov bennet https://www.bennet.senate.gov/news/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — Colorado U.S. Senators Michael Bennet and John Hickenlooper welcomed $850 million from the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Methane Emissions Reduction Program to fund methane emissions reduction projects and combat climate change, including $341 million for six Colorado-based projects led by Colorado State University and Pioneer Energy, Inc. This funding is part of $1.36 billion from EPA and the Department of Energy (DOE) to reduce methane emissions provided by the Inflation Reduction Act, which Bennet and Hickenlooper helped pass into law. “Colorado has been a national leader in addressing methane pollution from the oil and gas industry,” said Bennet. “This funding helps ensure Colorado will continue leading the way towards cutting dangerous air pollution, slowing the rate of climate change, and growing our clean energy economy.” “Methane emissions are driving our climate crisis and putting Coloradans’ health at risk,” said Hickenlooper. “As governor, we set the global standard on methane regulations. Now Colorado will lead the fight to stop these emissions at the source – all thanks to our Inflation Reduction Act.” In total, the EPA announced over $850 million for 43 projects, with over $341 million allocated to multiple projects led by two Colorado organizations: Over $324 million to Colorado State University to reduce methane emissions from existing wells, improve data monitoring of methane emissions; and $17 million to Pioneer Energy, Inc. to deploy technologies that reduce methane emissions from oil and gas production. Bennet and Hickenlooper have consistently worked to cut methane emissions and strengthen federal oil and gas methane rules modeled on Colorado’s. In 2021, Bennet and Hickenlooper led members of the Colorado congressional delegation to push the EPA for stronger methane regulations for the oil and gas sector. In 2023, both senators sent multiple letters to the EPA urging them to track methane emissions more accurately. Bennet and Hickenlooper joined members of t… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-secures-key-ndaa-provisions-to-strengthen-rock-island-arsenal-support-families-and-farmers-in-illinois-and-beyond Duckworth Secures Key NDAA Provisions to Strengthen Rock Island Arsenal, Support Families and Farmers in Illinois and Beyond 2024-12-23 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] — Combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), who served in the Reserve Forces for 23 years and is a member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), secured several important provisions to support our state in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that passed Congress this week. Some of priorities Duckworth secured to help Illinoisans include expanding housing opportunities and surrounding infrastructure at Rock Island Arsenal, supporting school districts near military bases by helping alleviate state and local tax base funding shortfalls and expanding our military’s use of sustainable aviation fuels, which supports our Illinois farmers, protects the environment and drives economy opportunity throughout the Midwest. “The brave Illinoisans who serve our nation in uniform at home and abroad deserve to know that our country fully supports them as they and their families sacrifice to defend our country,” said Senator Duckworth. “While I do not support every provision in this bipartisan compromise, I’m proud I was able to secure critical provisions that benefit our state by strengthening Rock Island Arsenal, helping ensure our schools serving communities around our military bases have the support they need and expanding our military’s use of renewable aviation fuels. I voted to pass this legislation because our troops deserve each of those improvements and because it’s the right thing to do for our national security. I hope the President signs it as soon as possible.” Key Duckworth provisions secured in this year’s Committee-passed NDAA aimed at supporting Illinoisans include: Support a Strong and Ready Total Force by: Building More Inclusive Playgrounds by authorizing a pilot program) to build or upgrade inclusive playgrounds at one military installation within each of the military departments to directly support Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) families. Illinois military bases, including Scott Air Force base, Rock Island Arsenal and… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senate-confirms-david-capozzi-to-amtrak-board-of-directors-duckworth-created-disability-advocate-seat Senate Confirms David Capozzi to Amtrak Board of Directors’ Duckworth-created Disability Advocate Seat 2024-12-23 2024 2024-12 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. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—a member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation (CST) and author of the All Stations Accessibility Program (ASAP) Act—celebrated the United States Senate voting by voice vote to confirm David Capozzi to serve on Amtrak’s Board of Directors as the Boards’ designated disability advocate—a seat created by a provision Duckworth authored and successfully included in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. On Amtrak’s Board, Capozzi will help ensure senior Amtrak leadership hears the voices of individuals with disabilities who have demonstrated histories or experience with accessibility, mobility and inclusive transportation in passenger rail or commuter rail. “I worked hard to create this position on Amtrak’s Board of Directors because it is important that the disability community is represented at the table, and I’m proud that the Senate confirmed David Capozzi to serve in this important role,” said Senator Duckworth. “It’s long past time for Amtrak to prioritize the voices of the disability community and ensure the more than 70 million Americans living with a disability are heard by our nation’s premier passenger rail service. I look forward to Mr. Capozzi swiftly beginning his work with the rest of the Amtrak Board and other stakeholders to implement policies that do more to protect the dignity of passengers with disabilities.” David Capozzi is a retired federal senior executive. He was the Executive Director of the U.S. Access Board from 2008-2020 and was the Director of the Board’s Office of Technical and Information Services from 1992-2008. Prior to joining the Access Board, Capozzi was Director of Project ACTION and Vice President of Advocacy for Easter Seals, as well as the National Advocacy Director for the Paralyzed Veterans of America. He was a member of the legal team and lobbying captain for the disability community that helped craft the Americans with Disabilities Act. Capozzi was the lead negotiator on the Department of … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/fetterman-colleagues-applaud-senate-passage-of-bill-honoring-d-day-hero-henry-parham/ Fetterman, Colleagues Applaud Senate Passage of Bill Honoring D-Day Hero Henry Parham 2024-12-23 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate PA John Fetterman F000479 www.fetterman.senate.gov fetterman https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last week, Senator John Fetterman celebrated the Senate’s unanimous passage of a bipartisan bill to name the new Department of Veterans Affairs Community-Based Outpatient Clinic in Monroeville, Pennsylvania, as the Henry Parham VA Clinic. The legislation, introduced in the Senate by Senators Fetterman and Bob Casey, now awaits President Biden’s signature. Senator Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) also supported this legislation. The bill, co-led in the House by Congresswoman Summer Lee (D-PA) and Congressman Guy Reschenthaler (R-PA), honors the extraordinary legacy of Private First Class Henry Parham, a Black World War II veteran and member of the historic 320th Barrage Balloon Battalion. Mr. Parham’s service on D-Day and decades of volunteer work for fellow veterans exemplify his lifelong commitment to his country and community. “Honoring our veterans is about action—not just words. Henry Parham’s courage on D-Day and his years of service to veterans in Pittsburgh make him a true American hero,” said Senator Fetterman (D-PA). “Naming this clinic after Henry is a small but meaningful way to ensure his legacy lives on and reminds us of the sacrifices made by so many who were denied equality at home while fighting for freedom abroad.” “Henry Parham’s story reminds us that history is shaped by the courage of individuals who fought for freedom, even when denied it at home,” said Congresswoman Lee (D-PA). “To see this bill pass unanimously through both the House and Senate is a testament to the unifying power of his legacy. It’s also a reflection of what we can achieve when we work across the aisle for justice and recognition.” “When he stormed the beaches of Normandy as part of the only all-Black combat unit to land on D-Day, Henry Parham believed he was simply doing what he was ‘supposed to do as an American.’ When Henry came home, he continued serving his fellow veterans and his Nation, giving his time and energy at the VA in Pittsburgh,” said Senator Casey (D-PA). “To call Henry a hero only begins to … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/icymi-senator-gillibrand-on-nyts-the-daily-on-leading-the-charge-to-certify-the-equal-rights-amendment-enshrine-equality-in-the-constitution/ ICYMI: Senator Gillibrand On NYT’s “The Daily” On Leading The Charge To Certify The Equal Rights Amendment, Enshrine Equality In The Constitution 2024-12-23 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate NY Kirsten E. Gillibrand G000555 www.gillibrand.senate.gov gillibrand https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/ scraper ICYMI: Senator Gillibrand On NYT’s “The Daily” On Leading The Charge To Certify The Equal Rights Amendment, Enshrine Equality In The Constitution Dec 23, 2024 In case you missed it, Senator Gillibrand was featured on the New York Times podcast “The Daily” about her efforts to persuade President Biden to direct the national archivist to certify and publish the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA), which would enshrine equality and reproductive rights in the Constitution. Listen here. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/president-biden-signs-hirono-cruz-legislation-into-law-to-maintain-access-to-the-federal-courts President Biden Signs Hirono, Cruz Legislation Into Law to Maintain Access to the Federal Courts 2024-12-23 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate HI Mazie K. Hirono H001042 www.hirono.senate.gov hirono https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, DC – Today, President Joseph R. Biden signed the Federal Judiciary Stabilization Act into law. The bipartisan, bicameral legislation led by U.S. Senators Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI) and Ted Cruz (R-TX), both members of the Senate Judiciary Committee, transitions 10 temporary federal judgeships—including one in Hawaii—to permanent status in order to maintain the current level of access to the federal court for millions of Americans across the nation. “It was heartening to see broad bipartisan consensus on this bill to make the temporary district court judgeships around the country permanent, and I am glad that President Biden signed it into law,” said Senator Hirono. “This legislation will ensure that people in Hawaii, Texas, and across the country can continue to rely on these longstanding temporary judgeships. I thank Senator Cruz for his partnership, and all of the Senate and House cosponsors of this legislation for their support.” The Federal Judiciary Stabilization Act grants permanent status to all 10 currently-existing temporary federal district court judgeships in the following federal district courts: U.S. District Court for the District of Hawaii U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Texas U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Alabama U.S. District Court for the Central District of California U.S. District Court for the District of New Mexico U.S. District Court for the District of Arizona U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida U.S. District Court for the District of Kansas U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Missouri U.S. District Court for the Western District of North Carolina The full text of the legislation is available here. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases/president-biden-signs-hirono-tokuda-bill-to-study-designating-lahaina-as-national-heritage-area-into-law President Biden Signs Hirono, Tokuda Bill to Study Designating Lahaina as National Heritage Area Into Law 2024-12-23 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate HI Mazie K. Hirono H001042 www.hirono.senate.gov hirono https://www.hirono.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON, DC – Today, President Joseph R. Biden signed into law the Lahaina National Heritage Area Study Act, a bill introduced by U.S. Senator Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI) and U.S. Representative Jill Tokuda (D-HI). The bicameral legislation directs the National Park Service, in coordination with Maui County and other state and local partners, to study the suitability and feasibility of a National Heritage Area designation for Lahaina. The bill passed the House and unanimously passed the Senate last month. “The historic, natural, and cultural resources found in Lahaina tell a nationally significant story and the devastating August 2023 wildfires shed light on how special this town is to our communities and to the country,” said Senator Hirono. “I am proud President Biden signed the Lahaina National Heritage Area Study Act into law, as this bill will place Lahaina under consideration to become a National Heritage Area, helping to ensure that this town is celebrated and appreciated for generations to come.” The Lahaina National Heritage Area Study Act was also cosponsored by Representative Ed Case (D-HI). The National Park Service currently oversees 62 National Heritage Areas across the country, none of which are in Hawaii. In 2022, the House passed Senator Hirono’s Kaena Point National Heritage Area Act to study designating Kaena Point on Oahu as a National Heritage Area. The full text of the legislation is available here. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/bill-to-rename-fort-mchenry-visitor-and-education-center-after-senator-paul-sarbanes-passes-congress Bill to Rename Fort McHenry Visitor and Education Center after Senator Paul Sarbanes Passes Congress 2024-12-23 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate MD Chris Van Hollen V000128 www.vanhollen.senate.gov vanhollen https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper Last week, the U.S. Senate passed H.R. 6826, legislation designating the Visitor and Education Center at Fort McHenry National Monument and Historic Shrine as the "Paul S. Sarbanes Visitor and Education Center." This bill was crafted and led in the U.S. House by Congressman Kweisi Mfume (D-Md.), while Senators Ben Cardin and Chris Van Hollen (both D-Md.) introduced an identical, companion bill in the U.S. Senate. H.R. 6826 is cosponsored by the entire, bipartisan Maryland delegation in the United States House of Representatives who spearheaded its passage in the House on December 3, 2024. With passage of the measure in the Senate, it will be sent to President Joe Biden to be signed into law. “During his time in the House of Delegates, the U.S. House of Representatives, and as our state’s second-longest serving United States Senator, Paul Sarbanes was a tireless advocate on behalf of all Marylanders. Fort McHenry, a powerful symbol of Maryland’s pride and patriotism, is a fitting place to honor his legacy, and Congress’s passage of this legislation will help pay tribute to all that Paul did for our state and our nation,” said Senator Chris Van Hollen. “The late Senator Sarbanes was a champion of Fort McHenry, and he firmly believed that the site is critical to understanding and appreciating our national heritage and our national identity,” said Congressman Kweisi Mfume. “I am overjoyed that this bill has been triumphantly passed out of the Congress, and I am thankful for the partnership of the bipartisan, Maryland congressional delegation whose unified front made this bill’s advancement attainable,” he concluded. “Senator Paul Sarbanes was known for his strong commitment to his principles, to public service and to the people of Maryland. He had a long and distinguished career, but he never forgot his Baltimore roots. He saw Fort McHenry as a national treasure in the city and a site worth celebrating. This legislation acknowledges his long-term advocacy for the preservation of the site and the improvement of th… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/maryland-congressional-delegation-announces-800000-to-improve-railroad-safety Maryland Congressional Delegation Announces $800,000 to Improve Railroad Safety 2024-12-23 2024 2024-12 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 U.S. Congressmen Steny H. Hoyer, Dutch Ruppersberger, John Sarbanes, Kweisi Mfume, Jamie Raskin, David Trone, and Glenn Ivey (all D-Md.) announced $800,000 in federal funding to improve safety on railroads and at train crossings across the state. This investment will allow the Maryland Department of Transportation to perform an assessment of incidents on active railways across the state and develop a program designed to reduce injuries and fatalities associated with trespassing on railroad property. Together, these investments will increase the overall safety of the state’s train transit system. “Improving rail safety can both save lives and reduce costly, time consuming delays that impact travelers and commuters. With this funding from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, Maryland will have the tools to do just that. These federal dollars will help our state increase rail safety, prevent tragic incidents, and improve rail service for all,” said the lawmakers. "Saving lives is MDOT’s top priority and these funds will enable the Department to prioritize high-impact safety projects at highway crossings with railroads and local governments," said Maryland Transportation Secretary Paul J. Wiedefeld. "We appreciate the continued leadership of Team Maryland in securing this critical funding to further enhance safety in Maryland." The funds are provided through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements (CRISI) Program, which the lawmakers fought to fund at $5 billion over five years under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-cardin-mfume-bill-to-rename-post-office-in-honor-of-elijah-cummings-passes-congress Van Hollen, Cardin, Mfume Bill to Rename Post Office in Honor of Elijah Cummings Passes Congress 2024-12-23 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate MD Chris Van Hollen V000128 www.vanhollen.senate.gov vanhollen https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper Last week, the United States Senate passed legislation (H.R. 9544) to designate a Baltimore United States Post Office (USPS) as the ‘‘United States Representative Elijah E. Cummings Post Office Building." The bill to rename the post office at 340 South Loudon Avenue in Baltimore, Maryland, in honor of Congressman Cummings will now be sent to President Joe Biden to be signed into law. H.R. 9544 was crafted and led by Congressman Kweisi Mfume (D-Md.) in the U.S. House, and the companion legislation to this bill was introduced in the U.S. Senate by Senators Ben Cardin and Chris Van Hollen (both D-Md.). Maryland Congressmen Steny Hoyer, Dutch Ruppersberger, John Sarbanes, Jamie Raskin, David Trone, and Glenn Ivey (all D-Md.) all cosponsored the U.S. House legislation when it was introduced. “Congressman Elijah Cummings was a man of principle and dignity. His life was shaped by a commitment to serve others, and nowhere did he work harder to achieve equal justice and equal opportunity for all than in his beloved Baltimore community. Congress’s passage of this legislation is an important recognition of all that Elijah did for his city, his state, and his country,” said Senator Chris Van Hollen. "Congressman Elijah Cummings was a person of deep intellect, unlimited compassion, and a champion for working people everywhere. This House and our nation still feel his loss, which makes the renaming of this post office in his honor a fitting tribute to our dear friend," said Congressman Kweisi Mfume. "I am elated that this legislation has prevailed out of the Congress. It is a small but important gesture to say thank you to Congressman Elijah Cummings for the work he did, for so many years, for the people of Baltimore and the state of Maryland. Elijah was a trailblazer, consensus builder, peacemaker, and friend. His name and his image will now be a part of this building for all to see," he concluded. “Elijah’s talent for building consensus, as well as his work ethic and dedication to his constituents, propelled him early on … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-moran-introduce-legislation-to-empower-individuals-with-disabilities Van Hollen, Moran Introduce Legislation to Empower Individuals with Disabilities 2024-12-23 2024 2024-12 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 (D- Md.) and Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) introduced legislation that would direct the Social Security Administration to change the way it calculates Supplemental Security Income (SSI) to not penalize individuals with disabilities who chose to marry. The Eliminating the Marriage Penalty in SSI Act would exclude a spouse’s income and resources when determining eligibility for (SSI) and disregard marital status when calculating the SSI benefit amount for an adult who has a diagnosed intellectual or developmental disability. “Supplemental Security Income is critical to allowing people with disabilities to strengthen their financial security and independence,” said Senator Van Hollen. “This legislation will ensure that these Americans won’t be financially penalized simply for marrying.” “Our policies should support and empower individuals with disabilities to live a full and independent life, including the option to get married,” said Senator Moran. “This is sensible legislation that would change how disability payments are calculated to make certain the benefits we provide to individuals with disabilities aren’t diminished because they choose to get married.” This legislation is endorsed by the National Down Syndrome Society, National Down Syndrome Congress, Autism Speaks, Autism society of America, the Global Down Syndrome Foundation and the Muscular Dystrophy Association. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.warren.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/warren-renews-fight-to-address-chronic-underfunding-and-barriers-to-sovereignty-in-indian-country Warren Renews Fight to Address Chronic Underfunding and Barriers to Sovereignty in Indian Country 2024-12-23 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate MA Elizabeth Warren W000817 www.warren.senate.gov warren https://www.warren.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper Warren Renews Fight to Address Chronic Underfunding and Barriers to Sovereignty in Indian Country Bill Text (PDF) | Bill One-Pager (PDF) Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) reintroduced the Honoring Promises to Native Nations Act. The bill is designed to implement recommendations from the report Broken Promises: Continuing Federal Funding Shortfall for Native Americans, published by the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights in December 2018. The report was drafted with extensive input from Tribal governments and citizens and other stakeholders, concluding that federal programs designed to support the social and economic wellbeing of Tribal Nations and Native peoples remain chronically underfunded and often inefficiently structured. While the federal government has substantial trust and treaty obligations to Tribal Nations, it has repeatedly failed to honor these obligations. The report put it bluntly: “The United States expects all nations to live up to their treaty obligations and it should live up to its own.” This bill reaffirms the relationship between the federal government and Tribal nations and would strengthen federal programs for Native communities. The bill lays out a path to ensure the United States meets its promises to Tribal nations. Provisions in the Honoring Promises to Native Nations Act include: Criminal Justice and Public Safety: Grants full Tribal jurisdiction modeled on the Violence Against Women Act’s special tribal criminal jurisdiction, with funding to implement it if tribes choose; provides funding for Tribal justice systems, Tribal law enforcement, and detention facilities; requires Tribal consent before a federal execution of a Tribal citizen; establishes grants to support Native victims of crime; victim advocates for Native victims of all crimes; Health Care: Provides full, mandatory, inflation-adjusted funding for the Indian Health Service; funding for the Sanitation Facilities Construction Program; provides funding for the Special Diabetes Programs for Native A… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.warren.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/warren-urges-ftc-to-protect-patients-scrutinize-cardinal-gi-alliance-deal Warren Urges FTC to Protect Patients, Scrutinize Cardinal-GI Alliance Deal 2024-12-23 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate MA Elizabeth Warren W000817 www.warren.senate.gov warren https://www.warren.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper Warren Urges FTC to Protect Patients, Scrutinize Cardinal-GI Alliance Deal Merger of Big Drug Wholesaler, Gastroenterology Service Provider Threatens Competition, Cost Increases, and Health Risks to Patients By allowing wholesalers to control physician practices, wholesalers could pressure doctors to prescribe medicine that is most profitable for them, even if it’s not in the best interest of their patients Text of Letter (PDF) Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) wrote to Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Chair Lina Khan, urging the agency to closely scrutinize pharmaceutical wholesaler Cardinal Health’s $3.9 billion proposed acquisition of a majority stake in GI Alliance, the country’s largest gastroenterology management services organization. “This deal threatens to limit competition by expanding Cardinal Health’s control of physician practices, while giving Cardinal an incentive to restrict those practices from contracting with Cardinal’s rival wholesalers,” wrote Senator Warren. Cardinal Health has a long history of leveraging its dominant market power in a way that negatively impacts patients and health care providers. The company controls 28% of the prescription drug wholesale market, making it one of the three biggest wholesalers in the country. Along the way, Cardinal has pursued an aggressive vertical acquisition strategy, buying up companies to solidify its dominance in the wholesaler market , including acquiring a Group Purchasing Organization (GPO), a data analytics firm, medical device lines, specialty pharmacies, and physician practices. These acquisitions are part of a broader trend of health care conglomerates operating as both seller and buyer of prescription drug services. “Cardinal has consistently locked its customers into restrictive contracts, blocked out rival wholesalers, and squeezed generic drug manufacturers, leading to more frequent drug shortages, higher drug costs, and poorer health outcomes,” wrote Senator Warren. In October, Senator Warren sounded the al… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.baldwin.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-baldwin-votes-to-avert-a-government-shutdown Senator Baldwin Votes to Avert a Government Shutdown 2024-12-21 2024 2024-12 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) released the following statement after voting to avoid a government shutdown: “While a government shutdown may not be bad for the billionaires like the ones who were rooting for it, a shutdown would have been disastrous for Wisconsin families, the economy, and our troops. Shutting down the government would have left men and women in uniform working without pay, farmers without critical support, and children without the nutrition programs they rely on. Early this morning, I voted to keep our government open, support our farmers and rural communities, and narrowly avoid disaster for millions ahead of the holidays – but this was far from perfect. These short-term, kick-the-can-down-the-road bills are no way to govern and we have to pass a real Farm Bill and responsible annual funding bills that meet the needs of families, farmers, and businesses. Time to get to work.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-statement-on-spending-bill-to-avert-government-shutdown Blumenthal Statement on Spending Bill to Avert Government Shutdown 2024-12-21 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [WASHINGTON, DC] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) issued the following statement after the Senate passed an end-of-year spending deal that would extend government funding until March 2025: “This stopgap spending bill averts a government shutdown’s devastating human consequences reaching every corner of Connecticut and the country. Connecticut’s economy benefits from smart, targeted investments in our future—not from repeated budgetary brinksmanship. This agreement will provide essential disaster aid for local farmers impacted by extreme flooding, safeguard Connecticut’s submarine industry, and fund essential nutrition and public health programs on which so many Connecticut families depend. I pledge to continue the fight to fund vital programs that serve the American people, lower prescription drug costs, and promote economic growth and opportunity.” The Continuing Resolution (CR) includes a number of provisions that would benefit Connecticut, including a topline of $2.94 billion in post-disaster investments. Specifically, the CR includes: Disaster Aid for Connecticut Farmers: The CR includes $20.78 billion in disaster aid for farmers for necessary expenses related to losses of revenue and quality or production of crops. Extreme weather events, including severe floods and unprecedented droughts have devastated Connecticut farms in recent years. In the wake of these events, Blumenthal has authored legislation to improve access to disaster assistance programs and crop insurance for small-sized farms. The CR includes an estimated $22 million in disaster payments and an estimated $1 million in economic assistance payments for Connecticut. Support for the Virginia Class Submarine Program: The CR provides $5.69 billion in emergency funds for the Virginia Class Submarine Program, including wage increases for non-executive workers. Blumenthal has fought for increased funding to safeguard Connecticut’s submarine industry and continue steady production of the Virginia Class program. Relief for Recovering Small … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-durbin-applaud-senate-passage-of-bipartisan-legislation-to-help-ensure-public-employees-receive-full-social-security-benefits Duckworth, Durbin Applaud Senate Passage of Bipartisan Legislation to Help Ensure Public Employees Receive Full Social Security Benefits 2024-12-21 2024 2024-12 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 Dick Durbin (D-IL) applauded the Senate passage of the bipartisan Social Security Fairness Act to ensure public sector workers and their families are able to receive full Social Security benefits after two previous statutes reduced them. The legislation—whose Senate companion Duckworth and Durbin helped cosponsor alongside U.S. Senators Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Susan Collins (R-ME) and 58 other U.S. Senators—would repeal the Social Security Act’s Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO), which significantly reduced benefits for nearly 3 million Americans, many of whom are teachers, police officers and state, county and local government workers. The bill now heads to President Biden’s desk to be signed into law. Full text of the legislation can be found on the Senator’s website. “Millions of Americans have worked their entire lives, paying into Social Security paycheck after paycheck,” said Duckworth. “It’s a well-earned benefit, and I’m proud the Senate passed our bipartisan bill to help us uphold our commitment to building on this critical safety net and protecting it for the folks who teach our children, protect our communities and keep our towns and cities running. I hope President Biden signs it swiftly into law so it can finally begin helping working Americans who depend on it.” “Our letter carriers, teachers, firefighters, law enforcement, and others dedicate years of service to improving the lives of their neighbors and caring for their communities. As they retire, hard-working public servants should have access to their full Social Security benefits,” said Durbin. “I voted in support of the Social Security Fairness Act today to ensure that workers receive the Social Security benefits they’ve earned after a career in public service.” -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-votes-to-avert-another-harmful-trump-shutdown Duckworth Votes to Avert Another Harmful Trump Shutdown 2024-12-21 2024 2024-12 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. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) issued the following statement after the Senate passed legislation to keep our government open and spare working families the pain of a shutdown, sending it to the President’s desk to be signed into law: “With tonight’s vote, we’re avoiding yet another needless and harmful Trump government shutdown, supporting our farmers and delivering critical emergency disaster relief to help working Americans in red and blue states alike, including $2.3 billion in aid that Illinoisans struggling in the wake of natural disasters urgently need. “I remain, however, deeply disappointed that—at the behest of an unelected billionaire—Republicans once again went back on their word and tanked their own government funding legislation earlier this week. As a result, we were not able to include my bipartisan bill to protect our children from being poisoned or pass my provision to allow the year-round sale of E15 gasoline nationwide—which my Republican colleague Senator Fischer and I have led the charge on for years because we both recognize how it would help lower gas prices, protect our farmers and drive economic opportunity throughout the Midwest. I will continue working to pass these important policies in the months ahead. “After the last 48 hours of the same sort of needless chaos we grew accustomed to during the first Trump Administration, I’m relieved House Republicans finally remembered the only way to effectively govern is through compromise. I hope Speaker Johnson and MAGA Republicans take this lesson with them into the new year.” -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-hassan-statement-on-averting-a-shutdown Senator Hassan Statement on Averting a Shutdown 2024-12-21 2024 2024-12 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 (D-NH) issued the following statement on the vote last night to continue government funding and avert a shutdown: “Government shutdowns have real and severe impacts on the American people, including by risking our national security and threatening livelihoods – which is why it is important that we voted on a bipartisan basis to avert a shutdown. The legislation we passed also includes vital disaster relief funding and economic assistance for farmers. “But I want to be clear – the only reason that we were on the brink of a shutdown is because House Republicans caved to President-elect Donald Trump and Elon Musk, who at the last minute opposed a bipartisan deal reached after months of negotiations. That bipartisan agreement included crucial measures that were left out of the bill we passed last night, including ones that would have lowered health care costs and strengthened efforts to prevent and treat addiction. Moving forward, I urge my colleagues to work in good faith to find common ground and deliver for the American people.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-lujan-legislation-to-fully-restore-social-security-benefits-for-law-enforcement-officers-firefighters-and-public-servants-heads-to-presidents-desk-to-be-signed-into-law Heinrich, Luján Legislation to Fully Restore Social Security Benefits for Law Enforcement Officers, Firefighters & Public Servants Heads to President’s Desk to be Signed into Law 2024-12-21 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON — U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) secured Senate passage of the Social Security Fairness Act, legislation they cosponsored to restore full Social Security benefits for law enforcement officers, firefighters, and other state and local public servants by repealing two provisions of current law that unfairly reduce the Social Security benefits that public employees receive. The Social Security Fairness Act passed the House in November and, following today’s Senate passage, now heads to President Joe Biden to be signed into law. “Our police officers, firefighters, bus drivers, and teachers deserve to receive the Social Security benefits they’ve earned after a lifetime of hard work,” said Heinrich. “No American should have to worry about affording basic necessities like food or safe housing after paying into Social Security their entire lives. I’m proud to advance this legislation to ensure all Americans get the benefits they are entitled to and can retire with the dignity and peace of mind they were promised.” "I was proud to help pass the Social Security Fairness Act for the good of thousands of New Mexicans. This important bipartisan legislation will help ensure that New Mexicans are getting the benefits they have earned and deserve," said Luján. "I’m honored to stand with the millions of dedicated public servants — police officers, teachers, firefighters, and other local and state employees — who tirelessly serve our communities, trusting that they will receive the benefits they’ve been promised. I have always fought to protect New Mexicans' Social Security, and I will always continue to do so.” Over 15 ,000 New Mexicans who have dedicated their lives to public service are prevented from receiving the full Social Security benefits they have earned due to two laws from the 1970s and 1980s. The Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP), enacted in 1983, reduces the earned Social Security benefits of a worker receiving their public pension from a job not covered by Social … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/kaine-applauds-senate-passage-of-social-security-fairness-act Kaine Applauds Senate Passage of Social Security Fairness Act 2024-12-21 2024 2024-12 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 (D-VA) applauded the Senate passage of the Social Security Fairness Act, bipartisan legislation he cosponsored to strengthen Social Security benefits by eliminating the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO). “Virginia’s firefighters, police officers, and other dedicated public servants deserve the full Social Security benefits they’ve earned,” said Kaine. “I’m glad to have cosponsored and voted for this legislation to help deliver on that principle, and encourage President Biden to sign it into law as quickly as possible.” The Social Security Fairness Act will enhance retirement benefits for more than 50,000 Virginians, primarily those who worked for state and local government, whose benefits were unfairly reduced by the WEP and GPO provisions. Companion legislation is led in the U.S. House of Representatives by Congresswoman Abigail Spanberger (D-VA-07). ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/warner-and-kaine-statement-on-congressional-passage-of-legislation-to-keep-government-funded-until-march-14 Warner & Kaine Statement on Congressional Passage of Legislation to Keep Government Funded Until March 14 2024-12-21 2024 2024-12 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) released the following statement after voting to pass legislation to prevent a government shutdown and extend government funding at Fiscal Year 2024 levels until March 14. The legislation also includes $110 billion in disaster relief to support communities recovering from Hurricanes Helene and Milton, which the senators advocated for: “We are relieved Congress passed legislation to avert a government shutdown, which would have had disastrous consequences for federal employees, government contractors, and millions of Americans who rely on government services. We are also glad that it included federal funding we pushed for to help communities in Southwest Virginia recover from Hurricane Helene and additional support for the Virginia-class and Columbia-class submarine programs. However, we are disappointed that Republicans turned their backs on an original bipartisan proposal that would have included provisions to lower prescription drug costs. We are also frustrated that the majority of our Republican colleagues did not want to fully fund the government for Fiscal Year 2025 and instead kicked the deadline into the new year. Short-term continuing resolutions create unnecessary harm for federal departments and agencies—particularly those in the national security space—because they don’t allow them to meet today’s challenges and plan for the future. In the coming months, we will continue working to pass Fiscal Year 2025 government funding legislation that supports Virginians and includes funding for community projects across the Commonwealth.” This is the second time that Congress has failed to pass a full-year government funding bill for Fiscal Year 2025. On September 25, the senators voted to pass legislation to temporarily fund the government through December 20. Warner and Kaine have previously introduced legislation to prevent government shutdowns. The continuing resolution (CR) includes $110 billion in funding for disaster relief… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-statement-on-short-term-deal-to-keep-the-government-open-2024 Murphy Statement on Short-Term Deal to Keep the Government Open 2024-12-21 2024 2024-12 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.) released the following statement after voting for a short-term deal to keep the government open and deliver disaster aid to impacted communities in Connecticut and across the country. “The government almost shut down because the only thing co-presidents Elon Musk and Donald Trump care about is making themselves and their billionaire friends richer – it’s that simple. The past 48 hours were a hostage-taking exercise that put millions of families in the lurch just days before Christmas, all in the name of raising the debt ceiling so Trump can finance a giant tax break for billionaires in January. And now that Trump and Musk didn’t get their way, they’ve hatched an even more shameful plan to cut Medicare, Medicaid, and veterans benefits by $2.5 trillion instead. This ‘Billionaire First’ agenda is what we have to look forward to next year.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-peters-votes-to-help-pass-the-social-security-fairness-act Senator Peters Votes to Help Pass the Social Security Fairness Act 2024-12-21 2024 2024-12 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 Senator Gary Peters (MI) helped the Senate pass the bipartisan Social Security Fairness Act to ensure that public sector workers, such as teachers, postal workers, police officers, and firefighters, receive the full Social Security benefits they have paid into and earned. The bipartisan legislation, which Peters cosponsored and pushed for, will restore the full Social Security benefits of tens of thousands of Michigan workers and retirees. The bill previously passed the House with overwhelming bipartisan support and now heads to the President to be signed into law. “Folks who dedicate their careers to the public good, whether it’s teaching our kids or keeping our communities safe, deserve to receive the full Social Security benefits that they paid into and earned once they retire,” said Senator Peters. “I was proud to help pass this commonsense bill that will restore and protect the benefits of thousands of hardworking Michiganders.” The Social Security Fairness Act will repeal the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO), two provisions that reduced Social Security payments for certain retirees who also received pension income. The WEP currently impacts about 2 million Social Security beneficiaries and the GPO impacts nearly 800,000 retirees across the country. Peters has long fought to protect Americans’ hard-earned benefits and ability to retire with dignity and security. Earlier this year, Peters urged the Social Security Administration to address mistaken overpayments that placed undue financial burdens on social security recipients. Peters is also a proud cosponsor of, and has urged Congress to pass, the Protecting the Right to Organize (PRO) Act, which would strengthen the federal laws that protect workers’ right to form a union to collectively bargain for better wages and benefits. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-backed-bill-to-protect-social-security-benefits-for-public-workers-approved-by-senate Reed-backed Bill to Protect Social Security Benefits for Public Workers Approved by Senate 2024-12-21 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate RI Jack Reed R000122 www.reed.senate.gov jackreed https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases scraper WASHINGTON, DC – The U.S. Senate voted 76-20 to pass the Social Security Fairness Act (H.R.82/S.597) to correct a long-standing penalty that unfairly impacts millions of public servants and surviving spouses across the nation. The bipartisan Social Security Fairness Act was introduced in the Senate by Senators Sherrod Brown (D-OH) and Susan Collins (R-ME) and in the U.S. House by Representatives Abigail Spanberger (D-VA-7) and Garret Graves (R-LA-6). Senator Reed is an original cosponsor of the Senate bill, which had 62 cosponsors. The bipartisan legislation, which previously passed the U.S. House of Representatives in November with a vote of 327-75-1, repeals the government pension offset (GPO) and windfall elimination provision (WEP) that reduce Social Security benefits for some firefighters, police officers, public school teachers, postal workers, and other public workers and their spouses. “Thousands of hardworking Rhode Islanders who have dedicated their lives to serving our communities deserve the reassurance that they won’t be short-changed on their Social Security benefits. I’ve worked with my colleague Sherrod Brown for years to pass this legislation in order to ensure that millions of teachers, postal workers, firefighters, law enforcement officers, and other dedicated civil servants get the benefits they have earned,” said Senator Reed. “I’m glad we were able to finally deliver this correction for millions of hardworking Americans and I’m committed to protecting and strengthening Social Security to ensure all Americans are able to retire with the dignity and financial security they have earned.” According to the Congressional Research Service, the WEP and GPO provisions have limited Social Security payouts for approximately 2.8 million Americans. Now that the legislation has been approved by the Senate, it will be sent to the President’s desk to be signed into law. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases/schatz-more-than-2-billion-in-new-disaster-aid-funding-for-maui-passes-senate-set-to-be-signed-into-law Schatz: More Than $2 Billion In New Disaster Aid Funding For Maui Passes Senate, Set To Be Signed Into Law 2024-12-21 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate HI Brian Schatz S001194 www.schatz.senate.gov schatz https://www.schatz.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – Today, U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, voted to pass more than $110 billion in new long-term recovery funding for disaster-impacted communities nationwide. Schatz, a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, worked to include an estimated $1.6 billion in new Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) funding for housing on Maui and an estimated $480 million more for economic development, small business loans, and water infrastructure, among other things. The funding bill is expected to be signed into law by the president today. “The $1.6 billion in CDBG-DR funding is for three things: housing, housing, and housing,” said Senator Schatz, a senior member of the Senate Appropriations Committee. “For the past 16 months, the people of Lahaina have done everything in their power to recover as quickly as they can. But they were never meant to do it alone. As disaster response gives way to disaster recovery, building housing is the top priority. People can’t fully recover without permanent, stable housing, and that’s why getting this funding now is so important.” In addition to the estimated $1.6 billion in CDBG-DR funding for housing, about $480 million more will be heading to Maui, including: At least $22 million to support economic recovery, agriculture, and conservation effort At least $12 million to provide loans to impacted small businesses $33 million to repair roads $350 million to build critical water infrastructure $19 million for child care Since the Maui fires in August 2023, Schatz has continually led efforts in Congress to deliver relief for survivors, including securing $16 billion for the national Disaster Relief Fund last year and most recently co-sponsoring the Federal Disaster Tax Relief Act which passed the Senate unanimously last week. The bill exempts survivors of the fires from having to pay federal income tax on their settlement money or pay tax on attorney fees included in the settlement. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-statement-on-passage-of-the-continuing-resolution-to-keep-the-government-open-provide-disaster-funding-to-support-new-hampshire-farmers Shaheen Statement on Passage of the Continuing Resolution to Keep the Government Open, Provide Disaster Funding to Support New Hampshire Farmers 2024-12-21 2024 2024-12 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), a senior member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee and Chair of the Commerce, Justice and Science Appropriations Subcommittee, today issued the following statement after Congress passed a continuing resolution that will keep the government funded through March 14, 2025, and provide $110 billion in disaster supplemental funding to help farmers and communities: “I’m relieved we came to a deal to keep the government open and provide disaster funding for communities and farmers. It’s unfortunate that a billionaire and President-elect Trump came in at the 11th hour to reject the deal Democrats and Republicans had spent months working on that would have not only kept the government open and provided disaster aid, but also would have funded critical services that Granite State families rely on and reformed pharmacy benefit managers that are responsible for skyrocketing costs of prescription drugs. “In the future, I hope that we can get back to this bipartisan agreement that included provisions to improve our health care system, support workforce development and provide for our seniors. “Americans want us to work together to make their lives better. I’m glad we’ve worked to avoid a disastrous government shutdown, and moving forward, I hope both parties can work together to avert such unnecessary crises in the future.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-statement-on-vote-to-ensure-full-federal-funding-for-key-bridge-replacement-avert-government-shutdown Van Hollen Statement on Vote to Ensure Full Federal Funding for Key Bridge Replacement, Avert Government Shutdown 2024-12-21 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate MD Chris Van Hollen V000128 www.vanhollen.senate.gov vanhollen https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper Today, U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) released the following statement on his vote to pass a continuing resolution to keep the federal government running through March 14. This stopgap funding package includes the provisions of Team Maryland’s Baltimore BRIDGE Relief Act to ensure 100 percent federal funding for the replacement of the Francis Scott Key Bridge and guarantee that all litigation and insurance proceeds stemming from the collapse are returned to federal taxpayers. Additionally, it replenishes the Department of Transportation’s Emergency Relief Fund, through which Maryland will continue to receive funding for the bridge replacement. “After a months-long push, a united Team Maryland has secured 100 percent full federal funding for the cost of replacing the Key Bridge – and provided the necessary funds our state needs to move full steam ahead with the reconstruction. This is a major victory for our state, and I’m proud that we were able to deliver the resources that Baltimore and Maryland need to rebuild stronger following the Key Bridge disaster. “Despite the Republican chaos that brought us dangerously close to a government shutdown just before the holidays, I’m glad we were able to reach an 11th hour bipartisan agreement. This legislation will move the Key Bridge replacement forward while providing relief to other communities across the country hit by disasters. It also ensures that federal employees can continue to provide the country with the vital services we rely on and receive paychecks for the work they do on behalf of the American people.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-votes-to-pass-bill-ensuring-full-social-security-benefits-for-public-employees Van Hollen Votes to Pass Bill Ensuring Full Social Security Benefits for Public Employees 2024-12-21 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate MD Chris Van Hollen V000128 www.vanhollen.senate.gov vanhollen https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper Today, U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) voted to pass the Social Security Fairness Act, bipartisan legislation he cosponsored to ensure public sector workers and their families can receive full Social Security benefits. This bill repeals the Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO) from the Social Security Act, both of which significantly reduced benefits for nearly 3 million Americans – including over 54,000 Marylanders – many of whom are federal employees, teachers, police officers, and state, county, and local government workers. Having previously passed the U.S. House of Representatives before passing the U.S. Senate today, the Social Security Fairness Act advances to President Biden’s desk to be signed into law. “From firefighters to teachers to food safety inspectors, we count on the services that public employees provide every day. Our passage of this bill is a critical step toward ensuring all public workers and their families can retire with dignity, receiving the full Social Security benefits that they have paid into – and earned – after years of hard work,” said Senator Van Hollen. The Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP), enacted in 1983, reduced the Social Security benefits of workers who receive pensions from a federal, state, or local government for employment not covered by Social Security. The Government Pension Offset (GPO), enacted in 1977, reduced Social Security spousal benefits for spouses, widows, and widowers whose spouses receive pensions from a federal, state, or local government. Together, these provisions reduce Social Security benefits for nearly 3 million Americans – including many teachers and police officers. The Social Security Fairness Act repeals both the WEP and GPO statutes, ensuring public sector workers and their families receive their full Social Security benefits. This legislation has been endorsed by a diverse array of labor leaders, including the National Education Association, American Federation of Teachers, International As… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=1806A917-C1FF-4C33-8EE4-D6EE94935F66 Warner & Kaine Statement on Congressional Passage of Legislation to Keep the Government Funded Until March 14 2024-12-21 2024 2024-12 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. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) released the following statement after voting to pass legislation to prevent a government shutdown and extend government funding at Fiscal Year 2024 levels until March 14. The legislation also includes $110 billion in disaster relief to support communities recovering from Hurricanes Helene and Milton, which the senators advocated for: “We are relieved Congress passed legislation to avert a government shutdown, which would have had disastrous consequences for federal employees, government contractors, and millions of Americans who rely on government services. We are also glad that it included federal funding we pushed for to help communities in Southwest Virginia recover from Hurricane Helene and additional support for the Virginia-class and Columbia-class submarine programs. However, we are disappointed that Republicans turned their backs on an original bipartisan proposal that would have included provisions to lower prescription drug costs. We are also frustrated that the majority of our Republican colleagues did not want to fully fund the government for Fiscal Year 2025 and instead kicked the deadline into the new year. Short-term continuing resolutions create unnecessary harm for federal departments and agencies—particularly those in the national security space—because they don’t allow them to meet today’s challenges and plan for the future. In the coming months, we will continue working to pass Fiscal Year 2025 government funding legislation that supports Virginians and includes funding for community projects across the Commonwealth.” This is the second time that Congress has failed to pass a full-year government funding bill for Fiscal Year 2025. On September 25, the senators voted to pass legislation to temporarily fund the government through December 20. Warner and Kaine have previously introduced legislation to prevent government shutdowns. The continuing resolution (CR) includes $110 billion in funding for disaster relief to su… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=1A87814E-7CEB-4704-960B-21B2543813EF Wexton, Warner, and Kaine Applaud Senate Passage of a Bill to Designate George C. Marshall House as a National Park Service Affiliated Area 2024-12-21 2024 2024-12 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. Representative Jennifer Wexton (D-VA-10) and U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) applauded the unanimous Senate passage of legislation to designate the General George C. Marshall House in Leesburg, known as Dodona Manor, as an affiliated area under the National Park Service (NPS). The lawmakers have advocatedfor years for an official designation, which would provide new resources to preserve and celebrate General Marshall’s legacy at the site, including technical assistance to support restoration efforts, accessibility improvements, and new programming. “Dodona Manor has a clear historic value to our nation and turning it into an affiliated area under NPS is a fitting way to honor General Marshall’s life and legacy,” said the lawmakers. “We’re glad our legislation to help make that happen was passed by the Senate today and hope to see this designation come to fruition.” General Marshall led a lifetime of public service, serving as Chief of Staff to the Army during America’s entry into World War II, as Secretary of State where he orchestrated the historic Marshall Plan to rebuild Europe following the war, and as Secretary of Defense after the onset of the Korean War. Dodona Manor is currently registered as a National Historic Landmark by the Department of the Interior and has been designated by the Commonwealth of Virginia as a Virginia Landmark. The Marshall House has been an integral part of the Leesburg community for over two centuries. General Marshall and his wife Katherine purchased the property in 1941 as a weekend retreat house, and regularly spent time at the property throughout General Marshall’s tenure as Secretary of State and Secretary of Defense. Today, the property hosts international exchanges, historical exhibits, community events, and educational programming about the life and legacy of the Marshall family. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=BA4B418B-C0DC-4797-BE27-4C1D363BDB12 Wexton, Warner, and Kaine Applaud Passage of their Bipartisan Gabriella Miller Kids First Research Act 2024-12-21 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate VA Mark R. Warner W000805 www.warner.senate.gov warner https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases scraper WASHINGTON – Today, Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton (D-VA-10) and Senators Tim Kaine and Mark R. Warner (both D-VA) celebrated the Senate passage of their bipartisan Gabriella Miller Kids First Research Act 2.0. The bill reauthorizes federal funding for the National Institute of Health’s (NIH) Gabriella Miller Kids First Pediatric Research Program (Kids First), which the senators helped create to support lifesaving research of treatments and cures for childhood cancer since 2015. The bill was included in a draft government funding agreement that was reached earlier this week, but was later torpedoed by Elon Musk, Vivek Ramaswamy, and President-elect Donald Trump. The legislation is named in honor of Gabriella Miller, who lived in Virginia’s 10th District and was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor and passed away in 2013 at the age of 10. Her passionate advocacy for lawmakers to “stop talking, start doing” led to the passage of the Gabriella Miller Kids First Research Act and creation of Ten-Year Pediatric Research Initiative Fund in 2014. “For as long as I have been serving in Congress, I’ve been fighting to pass the Gabriella Miller Kids First Research Act 2.0 and extend critical funding for childhood cancer research,” said Wexton. “I’m so proud that we’ve finally gotten this lifesaving bill through Congress and on its way to be signed into law. This bipartisan bill will build on the groundbreaking work of the Kids First program and deliver much-needed resources to better understand, treat, and hopefully one day cure childhood cancer. No family should have to face the fear and pain of their child’s cancer diagnosis, and I’m grateful for the partnership of Senator Tim Kaine and the remarkable advocacy of Ellyn Miller and the Miller family in honor of Gabriella and her fight, to build support for this bill.” “Gabriella Miller was a courageous Virginian who gave her all to advocating for those whose lives have been touched by childhood cancer,” said Kaine. “I’m honored to have worked with the Miller Family a… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.bennet.senate.gov/2024/12/20/bennet-cortez-masto-cassidy-cornyn-announce-bipartisan-effort-to-help-train-more-doctors-and-address-health-care-workforce-shortages/ Bennet, Cortez Masto, Cassidy, Cornyn Announce Bipartisan Effort to Help Train More Doctors and Address Health Care Workforce Shortages 2024-12-20 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CO Michael F. Bennet B001267 www.bennet.senate.gov bennet https://www.bennet.senate.gov/news/page/ scraper Washington, D.C. — Colorado U.S. Senator Michael Bennet alongside U.S. Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-Nev.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), and John Cornyn (R-Texas) — members of the Senate Finance Committee and the bipartisan Medicare Graduate Medical Education (GME) Working Group — released draft legislation to improve the Medicare GME program, which makes payments to teaching hospitals for training residents and fellows in approved training programs. Their bipartisan proposal aims to help increase the supply of physicians and meet the growing needs of communities across the country. “Rural Coloradans shouldn’t have to travel long distances to see a doctor,” said Bennet. “This bipartisan effort will help teaching hospitals train and retain providers in rural and underserved communities. All Americans deserve access to quality health care – no matter where they live.” “Workforce shortages are straining our health care system, especially in rural areas, and we must do more to recruit, train and retain doctors in communities across Nevada,” said Cortez Masto. “That’s why I’ve been working across the aisle on this bipartisan proposal to address critical gaps in our physician workforce. I’ll continue working to ensure Nevada families in every corner of our state can access the care they need.” “Doctors often practice where they do a residency. If it helps to get doctors to practice in rural and low-income areas, let’s put training programs in these areas!” said Cassidy. “By creating new graduate medical education slots, our bill would expand access to and improve the quality of behavioral health and primary care in rural communities across the Lone Star State,” said Cornyn. “The physician workforce shortage is threatening the health of Americans, particularly those in rural and underserved communities with fewer primary care doctors, psychiatrists, and other health care providers,” said U.S. Senator Ron Wyden. “I’m pleased that members of the Finance Committee are taking this challenge head-on in a bipartisan way. I… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.bennet.senate.gov/2024/12/20/bennet-neguse-daines-celebrate-final-passage-of-bills-to-help-colorado-communities-address-housing-shortages-stop-invasive-species/ Bennet, Neguse, Daines Celebrate Final Passage of Bills to Help Colorado Communities Address Housing Shortages, Stop Invasive Species 2024-12-20 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CO Michael F. Bennet B001267 www.bennet.senate.gov bennet https://www.bennet.senate.gov/news/page/ scraper After Unanimous Passage in Congress, Legislation Heads to President’s Desk Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators Michael Bennet (D-Colo.) and Steve Daines (R-Mont.), and U.S. Representative Joe Neguse (D-Colo.), celebrated unanimous House and Senate passage of their Forest Service Flexible Housing Partnerships Act and Stop the Spread of Invasive Mussels Act. Their bipartisan legislation will strengthen the authority of the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) to lease underutilized administrative sites to address local needs, including for building affordable housing, and slow the movement of aquatic invasive species, like zebra and quagga mussels, into Colorado, Montana, and other Western States. Both pieces of legislation now head to President Biden’s desk to be signed into law. “Colorado and the American West face multiple challenges – from invasive species in our rivers, lakes and waterways, to a housing crisis that makes it impossible for working families to make ends meet,” said Bennet. “I’m grateful for the strong bipartisan support to pass these bills that will invest in our mountain communities and protect Colorado’s precious natural resources. The Flexible Housing Partnerships bill especially will help open up more opportunities for housing projects in our mountain communities who face a dire housing crisis.” “It’s as simple as this — in Colorado, the preservation of our public lands and the strength of our outdoor recreation economy is not only integral to the spirit of our state but to the success of our people,” said Neguse. “I am proud to see these bills through to the finish line—and even more excited for the ways in which they will deliver for our communities.” “I’m glad to see these commonsense, bipartisan bills to help address the housing shortage in rural Montana and across the west and to protect our Montana wildlife from invasive species heading to the president’s desk to be signed into law! Protecting our Montana way of life will always be my top priority,” said Daines. In the 2018 Farm Bill, Bennet a… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-and-connolly-introduce-bicameral-legislation-to-protect_expand-national-scenic-trails Blumenthal & Connolly Introduce Bicameral Legislation to Protect & Expand National Scenic Trails 2024-12-20 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Today, U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and U.S. Representative Gerry Connolly (D-VA) introduced legislation to preserve and expand America’s national trail system. The Complete America’s Great Trails Act gives a tax credit to landowners who voluntarily make land contributions towards the completion of National Scenic Trails, expanding the trail system and protecting the land from development. Connecticut is home to two of the 11 National Scenic Trails—the Appalachian Trail, which extends 52 miles across the state from Salisbury in the north to Sherman in the south, and the New England Trail, which extends 117 miles across the state from Suffield in the north to Guilford in the south. “The system of National Scenic Trails provides access to truly extraordinary landscapes—accessing the beauty of nature and recreational opportunities,” said Blumenthal. “The Complete America’s Great Trails Act incentivizes landowners to help close gaps in our national trail system, ensuring we protect habitat from encroachment of development while expanding the trails themselves. We owe it to ourselves and to future generations to preserve these treasured spaces.” “The Complete America’s Great Trails Act will enhance, expand, and protect trails in America’s most treasured places, from Mt. Vernon to Mount St. Helens, by providing landowners with incentives to protect public access and natural landscapes along America’s National Scenic Trails,” said Connolly. “I am proud to lead this effort with Senator Blumenthal and look forward to our continued work together to protect these American treasures for generations to come.” The Complete America’s Great Trails Act provides landowners who make a voluntary land contribution towards the completion of the National Scenic Trails with a tax credit equal to the fair market value of the portion of the land, furthering the goal of strengthening the connectivity and improving the maintenance of the trail system. The legislation is cosponsored in the Senate by U.S. S… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-statement-on-480-million-for-sikorsky-helicopters Blumenthal Statement on $480 Million for Sikorsky Helicopters 2024-12-20 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [Hartford, CT] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement applauding four awards totaling $480,294,997 for Sikorsky to support the manufacturing of CH-53K and VH-92A helicopters. “These blockbuster contracts, providing newest model helicopters, are crucial to key defense capabilities. They are also a boost for Connecticut’s economy and good-paying jobs in our state. They are a testament to the highly skilled Sikorsky workers and supply chain companies who build the world’s finest helicopters. There is an ever increasing urgency to the need for such aircraft. I will continue fighting to deliver contracts to Connecticut’s expert defense manufacturers,” said Blumenthal. -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.booker.senate.gov/news/press/booker-van-drew-celebrate-renaming-of-two-usps-post-offices-in-cape-may-county Booker, Van Drew Celebrate Renaming of Two USPS Post Offices in Cape May County 2024-12-20 2024 2024-12 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) and Representative Jeff Van Drew (R-NJ 2nd District) applauded the unanimous Senate passage of two bills, H.R. 7606 and H.R. 7607, renaming two United States Postal Service (USPS) post offices in Cape May County, New Jersey, in honor of Carlton H. Hand and George Henry White, respectively. The bills passed in the House of Representatives in June 2024 and now head to President Biden to be signed into law. “This is a special moment for New Jersey. By renaming these post offices, we honor two exceptional New Jerseyans—Carlton H. Hand, a decorated World War II veteran, and George Henry White, a pioneering Congressional representative—who devoted their lives to serving others. In doing so, we preserve their invaluable contributions for future generations,” said Senator Booker. "I am proud that our bills honoring two great American heroes will soon be signed into law,” said Congressman Van Drew. “Lieutenant Hand and Dr. White embody the courage, service, and determination that define the very spirit of America. By renaming these post offices in South Jersey, we are honoring their legacies and ensuring future generations remember their incredible contributions to our country." Located at 1087 Route 47 South in Rio Grande, New Jersey, the Rio Grande, NJ, Post Office will be renamed the "Carlton H. Hand Post Office Building." Located at the Northeast Corner of US Route 9 South and Main Street in Township of Middle, Cape May County, New Jersey, the Whitesboro Post Office will be renamed the "George Henry White Post Office Building." Carlton H. Hand U.S. Army Lieutenant Carlton H. Hand was a life-long resident of Rio Grande, New Jersey. He received a Silver Star, Purple Heart, and battlefield commission for his valor and bravery while fighting in Italy during World War II. He passed away in 1961. George Henry White George Henry White was the last Black Reconstruction-Era Congressman, representing North Carolina’s 2nd congressional district between 1897 and 190… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-capito-molinaro-payne-bipartisan-bill-to-promote-accessibility-at-amtrak-stations-passes-house-set-to-become-law Duckworth-Capito-Molinaro-Payne Bipartisan Bill to Promote Accessibility at Amtrak Stations Passes House, Set to Become Law 2024-12-20 2024 2024-12 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 Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV)—both members of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation (CST)—applauded the House passage of their bipartisan legislation to help break down unnecessary barriers for Americans with disabilities at Amtrak rail stations across the country. Building on Duckworth’s All Stations Accessibility Program (ASAP) Act, which became law as part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and is already helping improve transportation accessibility nationwide, the bipartisan Think DIFFERENTLY Transportation Act would help bring Amtrak stations up to standards enshrined in the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) by requiring the rail agency to submit annual reports to Congress on its compliance with accessibility standards set by the ADA. The bill now awaits President Biden’s signature. “When the ADA was signed into law, it promised that intercity passenger rail would become accessible within 20 years, yet—more than 30 years later—too many Amtrak stations still fail to live up to that promise,” said Senator Duckworth. “After unanimously passing the Senate earlier this month, I’m proud that our bipartisan bill—which builds on the progress that my ASAP Act in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is already making toward improving transit accessibility—is heading to the President’s desk. This bill sends the message that it’s long past time to ensure our rail stations are accessible for everyone. Whether on transit, rail or a plane, all Americans with disabilities should be able to safely and easily access the transportation systems they need to get around—and I’m proud that this legislation will help make that goal a reality for more Americans.” “Disabled passengers should not be a disadvantage when wanting to use passenger rail, which is why Senator Duckworth and I introduced the Think DIFFERENTLY Transportation Act, which was spearheaded in the House by Rep. Molinaro,” said Senator Capito. “I am glad to see our legislatio… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-colleagues-applaud-senate-passage-of-their-bipartisan-bill-to-provide-tsa-precheck-to-veterans-with-a-disability Duckworth, Colleagues Applaud Senate Passage of Their Bipartisan Bill to Provide TSA PreCheck to Veterans with a Disability 2024-12-20 2024 2024-12 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), Todd Young (R-IN), Roger Marshall (R-KS) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) applauded Senate passage of their bipartisan legislation to provide Veterans with service-connected disabilities with expedited screening under the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) PreCheck program. While TSA PreCheck is already offered to active duty, Reserves and National Guard servicemembers at no cost, the Veterans Expedited TSA Screening (VETS) Safe Travel Act would expand this program to include Veterans who are amputees, paralyzed or blind who often experience challenges when passing through airport security. The bill passed the House of Representatives by unanimous consent earlier this month and now heads to the President’s desk to be signed into law. “Millions of Veterans have sacrificed a great deal in service to our nation and returned home with service-connected disabilities—for those of us who rely on prosthetics and wheelchairs for mobility, air travel and passing through airport security can be a challenge,” said Senator Duckworth. “I’m proud the Senate passed our bipartisan bill to make TSA PreCheck available at no cost to these Veterans and make flying and passing through airports easier and less intrusive. I hope President Biden swiftly signs it into law.” “Airports can be a dreaded experience for veterans with service-connected disabilities because of the invasive screenings they may endure at security checkpoints. Once it becomes law, this bill will provide dignified travel to thousands of wounded warriors by ensuring PreCheck benefits are easily available to them,” said Senator Young. “Ensuring wounded veterans have little difficulty getting through airport security is a simple but impactful way to honor these heroes sacrifices for our country. I’m proud we delivered this victory before the end of this Congress,” said Senator Marshall. “For veterans who have already overcome extraordinary challenges in service to our country, navigating airport … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-durbin-announce-43-million-in-federal-funding-fro-math-education Duckworth, Durbin Announce $4.3 Million in Federal Funding for Math Education 2024-12-20 2024 2024-12 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. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today announced $4,338,911 in federal funding going to the University of Illinois Board of Trustees through the U.S. Department of Education’s Education Innovation and Research grant program. This award will support professional development for school principals and math educators to increase math proficiency of students. “When we invest in our children’s education, we help set them on a path to succeed both inside and outside the classroom,” Duckworth said. “I’m proud to announce this significant federal funding alongside Senator Durbin that will help provide our state’s principals and math educators with the resources they need to strengthen their students’ proficiency in math and help more kids reach their full potential.” “With today’s announced funding, our schools and teachers will be better supported to educate students and improve their proficiency in math,” said Durbin. “I’ll continue working with Senator Duckworth to ensure Illinois schools have the resources they need to help students succeed.” -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-durbin-illinois-delegation-urge-epa-to-fund-cleanup-of-chicago-area-waterway-system Duckworth, Durbin, Illinois Delegation Urge EPA to Fund Cleanup of Chicago Area Waterway System 2024-12-20 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper The lawmakers sent a letter to the EPA Region 5 Administrator to ask that federal funds immediately be allocated to efforts to clean up the Chicago Area Waterway System, including the pollution at Bubbly Creek [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth, U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Representatives Robin Kelly (D-IL-02), Delia Ramirez (D-IL-03), Jesús G. “Chuy” García (D-IL-04), Mike Quigley (D-IL-05), Sean Casten (D-IL-06), Danny Davis (D-IL-07), Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL-08), and Jan Schakowsky (D-IL-09), today sent a letter to U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 Administrator Debra Shore urging her to immediately allocate funds under the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) to begin the process of characterizing contaminated sediment in the Chicago Area Waterway System (CAWS). As the lawmakers note in their letter, if these funds are allocated to clean CAWS, EPA could begin cleaning up the pollution that has plagued the south fork of the south bend of the Chicago River, known as Bubbly Creek. “We are writing to urge you in your capacity as Great Lakes National Program Manager to immediately allocate funds under the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) to begin the process of characterizing contaminated sediment in the Chicago Area Waterway System (CAWS),” the lawmakers wrote. “For more than 100 years, the CAWS has suffered from pollution; specifically, the south fork of the south bend of the Chicago River, known as Bubbly Creek. This area’s name comes from the bubbles generated from sanitary sewage, industrial waste, and animal waste that were disposed of in the creek for more than 100 years from the adjacent Union Stockyards and other local industries. While the stockyards no longer line this portion of the river banks, the sediment remains highly contaminated, preventing the CAWS’ ecosystem from being restored,” the lawmakers continued their letter. The lawmakers explained that GLRI funds can be used to support efforts to clean up CAWS, citing the … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/in-meeting-with-japanese-ambassador-duckworth-touts-how-ndaa-provisions-she-secured-will-help-bolster-our-nations-alliance In Meeting with Japanese Ambassador, Duckworth Touts How NDAA Provisions She Secured Will Help Bolster Our Nations’ Alliance 2024-12-20 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—a member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations and Armed Services Committees—this week met with Japanese Ambassador to the United States Shigeo Yamada to discuss some of the ways the two countries could build on their shared priorities and strengthen their bilateral alliance. During the meeting, the Senator shared how the modified version of her Access to Care for Overseas Troops Act that was included in the Fiscal Year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that passed the Senate this week would help increase cooperation between Japan and the U.S. while ensuring American servicemembers and their families have access to quality patient care throughout the Indo-Pacific region. Photos from the meeting are available on the Senator’s website. “Whether it’s through trade, business investment or national security, Japan is one of our nation’s closest allies and strongest partners in the Indo-Pacific region,” said Senator Duckworth. “It was a pleasure to meet with Ambassador Shigeo Yamada to share some of the provisions I secured in this year’s bipartisan defense bill that would help strengthen strategic partnerships in the Indo-Pacific region while improving medical readiness for U.S. servicemembers. I look forward to continuing working together to strengthen our longstanding relationship while promoting democracy, security and economic cooperation throughout the region.” Duckworth is a proven leader when it comes to strengthening our relations with Indo-Pacific nations and improving security in the region—which she has done while successfully securing significant international investments in Illinois. Last year, Duckworth led an official visit to Japan and Indonesia as part of her continuing efforts to strengthen ties and reinforce support between allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific region and the United States. Following the official visit, Japan announced a regulatory change that will lead to an increase in imports from U.S. bio… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/landmark-bipartisan-bicameral-infrastructure-package-delivers-50-million-for-pennsylvania/ Landmark Bipartisan, Bicameral Infrastructure Package Delivers $50 Million for Pennsylvania 2024-12-20 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate PA John Fetterman F000479 www.fetterman.senate.gov fetterman https://www.fetterman.senate.gov/press-release/ scraper Washington, D.C. – Yesterday, U.S. Senator John Fetterman (D-PA) celebrated the Senate’s passage of key legislation, including the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA), the reauthorization of the Economic Development Administration (EDA), and provisions for regional commissions. The package, which passed 97-1, includes major wins for Pennsylvania’s communities with new programs and funding that will create jobs, address environmental challenges, and invest in critical infrastructure. “I’m proud to see the Senate come together in a nearly unanimous vote to deliver these transformative investments to communities across Pennsylvania and the country. This legislation addresses critical needs in Pennsylvania—revitalizing our communities, safeguarding our environment, and spurring economic growth,” said Senator Fetterman. “This is how we show working people that the government can deliver real results that build stronger, healthier, and more resilient communities. The people of Pennsylvania and our nation are counting on us to deliver these critical investments and I’m proud to bring it home.” This legislation reflects a major step forward in supporting Pennsylvania’s working families, rebuilding critical infrastructure, and fostering regional economic development. WRDA and the EDA reauthorization are designed to tackle long-standing challenges including flooding, pollution from legacy industries, and economic stagnation in transitioning communities. Together, these investments will position Pennsylvania for growth while protecting and improving the quality of life for its residents. Key Wins for Pennsylvania in WRDA: New Acid-Mine Drainage Program: dedicates $50 million to clean up legacy pollution from mining in Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Ohio to benefit both the environment and public health Johnstown River Walls Project: enables the repair and enhancement of the Johnstown river walls to mitigate flood risks South Wetlands Park: authorizes the development of a wetlands park in South Philadelphia, enhan… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-announces-passage-of-key-provisions-of-her-legislation-to-address-epidemic-of-traumatic-brain-injuries-in-service-members-and-veterans/ Gillibrand Announces Passage Of Key Provisions Of Her Legislation To Address Epidemic Of Traumatic Brain Injuries In Service Members And Veterans 2024-12-20 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate NY Kirsten E. Gillibrand G000555 www.gillibrand.senate.gov gillibrand https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/ scraper Today, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, chair of the Senate Armed Services Emerging Threats and Capabilities Subcommittee, held a video press conference announcing that major provisions of her legislation to protect service members from traumatic brain injuries are included in this year’s National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The NDAA passed the Senate this week. “For years, our service members have been sustaining severe and crippling brain trauma as a result of firing their own weapons, but the Department of Defense has failed to properly investigate or address their injuries,” said Senator Gillibrand. “I’m proud to have fought to get the core of my Blast Overpressure Safety Act included in this year’s NDAA to finally get service members the care they need. These provisions will require the DoD to investigate the prevalence of blast overpressure brain injuries, standardize care across the Department of Defense, and take steps to mitigate service members’ blast exposure. I look forward to seeing President Biden sign it into law.” Gillibrand introduced the Blast Overpressure Safety Act following a disturbing report showing that service members are sustaining crippling traumatic brain injuries as a result of repeated exposure to explosions from their own weapons and explosives – otherwise known as blast overpressure. These brain injuries can cause depression, anxiety, cognitive problems, hallucinations, panic attacks, violent outbursts, suicidal tendencies, psychiatric disorders, dementia, and a variety of other serious health problems. Specifically, the provisions of the Blast Overpressure Safety Act included in the NDAA would: Minimize exposure to blast overpressure by: Requiring the Secretary of Defense to establish limits for blast exposure and overpressure. Requiring modification of existing weapons systems to reduce blast exposure. Requiring performance parameters to minimize exposure to blast overpressure when drafting requirements for new weapons systems and new acquisitions programs. Improve … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/news/press/release/gillibrand-statement-on-exclusion-of-provision-for-world-trade-center-health-program-funding-in-end-of-year-spending-package/ Gillibrand Statement On Exclusion Of Provision For World Trade Center Health Program Funding In End-Of-Year Spending Package 2024-12-20 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate NY Kirsten E. Gillibrand G000555 www.gillibrand.senate.gov gillibrand https://www.gillibrand.senate.gov/press-releases/page/ scraper Today, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand released the following statement on the exclusion of a provision to fund the World Trade Center Health Program in the end-of-year health extenders package: “I am deeply disappointed by the decision to not include the World Trade Center Health Program in the government funding bill. 9/11 responders and survivors are real people, not political chess pieces. Thousands of Americans risked their lives to protect our country in its darkest hour, and it is now our responsibility as members of Congress to be there for them as they continue to battle the horrific health ramifications from that day and the many days after.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senator-hassan-recognizes-david-bugbee-of-concord-as-decembers-granite-stater-of-the-month Senator Hassan Recognizes David Bugbee of Concord as December’s Granite Stater of the Month 2024-12-20 2024 2024-12 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 David Bugbee of Concord as December’s Granite Stater of the Month. David has been regularly donating blood since he was 17 years old, helping countless Granite Staters through his donations. David was first inspired to donate blood by his father, who donated regularly when David was a child. When David was 17, he saw a flyer at his Manchester college and, remembering his father’s frequent donations, decided to go. After his first donation, David knew that this would be a meaningful way in which he could help others – and now, at 71, he has given blood more than 200 times. Blood donations can be used for many different purposes in a hospital or emergency setting, and hospitals rely on volunteers like David to collect enough supply for patients in need. Donating blood is David’s way of giving back to his community and he says that he has gotten used to the sensation of giving a pint of blood. He regularly visits his donation center in Concord to give blood, and he appreciates the Red Cross workers who run the center. David’s selfless commitment to regularly donating blood is a great example of the Granite State spirit of helping other people in any way possible. 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 nominate a New Hampshire citizen to be a “Granite Stater of the Month,” constituents can complete the nomination form here. To read Senator Hassan’s statement for the Congressional Record, see below. I am honored to recognize David Bugbee of Concord as December’s Granite Stater of the Month. David, who is 71 years old, has been donating blood, regularly, since he was 17, helping countless Granite Staters and others in our region through this precious gift. David was first inspired to donate blood by his father. As a child, David remembers going with his dad to regular blood donation appointme… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senators-hassan-and-boozman-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-make-it-easier-for-veterans-to-schedule-medical-appointments Senators Hassan and Boozman Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Make it Easier for Veterans to Schedule Medical Appointments 2024-12-20 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate NH Margaret Wood Hassan H001076 www.hassan.senate.gov hassan https://www.hassan.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and John Boozman (R-AR), members of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, introduced the Improving Veteran Access to Care Act, bipartisan legislation to improve the Department of Veterans Affairs’ (VA) health care scheduling process so that veterans can easily schedule multiple visits at once through one phone call or online. Currently, veterans do not have access to one centralized platform to schedule appointments for many types of VA-based specialty care. Veterans often prefer to schedule various specialist appointments that they need for the same day – in order to avoid multiple trips to the VA – but they must call individual clinics to set up appointments for specialty care. Attempting to coordinate multiple appointments through multiple phone calls and trips places a burden on all veterans, but particularly on those who must travel a long distance for appointments. The Senators’ Improving Veteran Access to Care Act would address this issue by requiring the VA to create a streamlined scheduling system where veterans can either call or go online to view and schedule appointments for all types of VA care. “After all they’ve given to our country, veterans should be able to get VA care that serves their needs and that respects their time – but the current VA system for scheduling multiple appointments is complicated and burdensome. This is especially true for veterans in rural areas who often must travel long distances to receive care,” said Senator Hassan. “This commonsense, bipartisan bill will create a more streamlined and user-friendly scheduling process, and will make it easier for veterans in New Hampshire and across the country to access the health care they have earned and deserve.” “Ensuring the VA can provide the resources and care our servicemembers earned and expect must always be a priority,” said Boozman. “By streamlining the medical appointment scheduling process for our veterans, we can remove inefficiencies that hinder this critical mission… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-boozman-secure-final-passage-of-bipartisan-every-kid-outdoors-extension-act Heinrich, Boozman Secure Final Passage of Bipartisan Every Kid Outdoors Extension Act 2024-12-20 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper Bill heading to President Biden’s desk extends the wildly successful Every Kid Outdoors Program that Heinrich helped establish in 2019 to provide all American fourth graders and their families free national park access WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and John Boozman (R-Ark.) secured the Senate’s passage of their bipartisan Every Kid Outdoors Extension Act as part of the larger Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Experiences (EXPLORE) Act, recreation legislation that already passed the House and will now go to President Biden’s desk to be signed into law. “As a father and a former outdoor educator, I know how much of a difference getting outside can make for our kids,” said Heinrich. “Since we passed my original Every Kid Outdoors Act into law five years ago, thousands of children and their families have been inspired to visit our public lands in New Mexico and all across the country. By keeping this program going, our public lands can continue serving as outdoor classrooms with endless opportunities for children to learn and families to make new memories.” “Our youth deserve the opportunity to learn about and explore our national parks and develop an appreciation for the lands and resources that help define our nation. I am proud to see my colleagues recognize the benefits of facilitating outdoor adventure and education for children and families. I look forward to the extension of this significant program,” said Boozman. Starting in 2015, the U.S. Department of the Interior has offered fourth graders and their families free entrance to all federally managed public lands. Heinrich led the original bipartisan effort in Congress, alongside then-U.S. Senator Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn.) to codify the Every Kid Outdoors program into law. Heinrich and Alexander’s Every Kid Outdoors Act passed in 2019 as part of the larger John D. Dingell Jr. Conservation, Management, and Recreation Act. The authorization under Heinrich’s original legislation is currently scheduled to expire in 2026. Once Pr… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-capito-celebrate-final-passage-of-bipartisan-simplifying-outdoor-access-for-recreation-act Heinrich, Capito Celebrate Final Passage of Bipartisan Simplifying Outdoor Access for Recreation Act 2024-12-20 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON - U.S. Senators Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-W. Va.), celebrated the Senate’s passage of their bipartisan Simplifying Outdoor Access for Recreation (SOAR) Act, legislation to improve the permitting process for outfitters, educational organizations, and community groups to access public land. The legislation was included in the Expanding Public Lands Outdoor Recreation Experiences (EXPLORE) Act, recreation legislation that already passed in the House and will now go to President Biden’s desk to be signed into law. “Our public lands are where we go to camp under the stars, chase elk, and fish for trout in mountain streams,” said Heinrich. “As a former guide myself, I know from experience how paperwork and bureaucracy can get in the way of getting outside. I’m proud that we have passed my bipartisan legislation to cut red tape to help small businesses and outdoor enthusiasts enjoy our public lands and continue growing economic development through outdoor recreation. We just made it easier for families, schools, and community groups to get outside and enjoy our public lands.” “Making it easier to explore and enjoy the incredible beauty of our public lands is a key priority, especially at home in West Virginia,” said Capito. “I’m thrilled our SOAR Act has passed as part of the EXPLORE Act and now heads to the president’s desk to be signed into law. Once officially law, it will reduce bureaucratic red tape and make commonsense changes to current permitting requirements that can discourage outfitters from utilizing our public lands and in turn, constrain economic development. These changes to federal public lands regulations will help support the outdoor recreation industry and benefit the local communities and economies that they serve.” The Simplifying Outdoor Access for Recreation Act streamlines and improves the recreational permitting process for federal agencies: The Simplifying Outdoor Access for Recreation (SOAR) Act was supported by a wide range of organizations, including… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-kennedy-bipartisan-legislation-to-restore-wetlands-and-migratory-bird-habitats-passes-senate-and-heads-to-presidents-desk Heinrich, Kennedy Bipartisan Legislation to Restore Wetlands and Migratory Bird Habitats Passes Senate and Heads to President’s Desk 2024-12-20 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON — Today, U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), a member of the Migratory Bird Conservation Commission, and U.S. Senator John Kennedy (R-La.) announced that their bipartisan legislation to reauthorize the North American Wetlands Conservation Act (NAWCA) through 2030 has passed the Senate, as part of the America’s Conservation Enhancement Reauthorization Act of 2024. The bill now heads to the President’s desk to be signed into law. “This reauthorization will continue to support our most successful public-private conservation partnership, and I'm proud to see it head to the President’s desk," said Heinrich. "The bipartisan North American Wetlands Conservation Act helps conserve New Mexico’s unique waterfowl and the wetlands they depend on for our future generations while investing in our flourishing outdoor recreation economy. The President should sign this bill immediately.” “Louisiana’s wetlands are a big part of our state’s outdoor sportsman culture and geographical beauty. The North American Wetlands Conservation Act is an important step to preserve our wildlife and protect our environment’s natural defense system,” said Kennedy. NAWCA was originally enacted in 1989 to provide federal matching grants—in partnership with funding from state and local governments, private industry, and non-profit organizations—for projects that conserve North America’s wetlands, waterfowl, and wildlife. New Mexico has 14 NAWCA projects either completed or underway, which have conserved 22,632 acres of wildlife habitat. NAWCA funding of more than $5.7 million stimulated partner contributions of over $14 million in the state. About NAWCA: Wetlands secure freshwater supplies, recharge aquifers, and mitigate soil erosion and flooding. In addition, waterfowl, migratory birds, fish, and other wildlife depend on wetlands for habitat, food, and migration stopovers. This wildlife also supports a multi-billion-dollar outdoor recreation economy, including fishing, wildlife viewing, and photography. NAWCA funding has been cri… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-votes-to-keep-government-open-secures-additional-15-billion-for-hermits-peak/calf-canyon-recovery Heinrich Votes to Keep Government Open, Secures Additional $1.5 Billion for Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Recovery 2024-12-20 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate NM Martin Heinrich H001046 www.heinrich.senate.gov heinrich https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON — U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, voted to pass a continuing resolution that will keep federal agencies funded through March 14, 2025. In addition to avoiding a disastrous Republican-caused government shutdown, the Continuing Resolution funds critically needed disaster assistance for communities across New Mexico and the country, delivers an additional $1.5 billion for New Mexicans recovering and rebuilding from the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire, extends the period that victims may start claims with the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Claims Office, delivers necessary disaster relief for farmers, and extends the 2018 Farm Bill for one more year while Congress continues work to pass a new farm bill that best supports working families, the farmers that produce our food and fiber, and our rural communities. “Despite Elon Musk and Donald Trump’s best efforts, Democrats came together to avert a government shutdown that would’ve devastated our economy, hurt working families, and thrust our government into chaos right before Christmas. “I’m pleased we secured a number of my top priorities, including $1.5 billion aimed at helping New Mexicans recover and rebuild from the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire. While we got this done on behalf of working families, this was far from a success. “If the last two days proved anything, it’s that Republicans are willing to use working people as pawns, bending to the whims of an unelected billionaire and his puppet — even if it means risking YOUR paycheck, YOUR health care, and YOUR family’s well-being. “My North Star has and continues to be passing serious appropriations bills and delivering for New Mexico and the American people. That’s who I fight for.” Heinrich will continue pressing House and Senate leadership to take up and pass full-year appropriations bills that the Senate Appropriations Committee passed on a bipartisan vote. In total, those bills contain over $300 million for New Mexico and more than $124 milli… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/video-wexton-kaine-and-warner-applaud-senate-passage-of-gabriella-miller-kids-first-research-act-20 VIDEO: Wexton, Kaine & Warner Applaud Senate Passage of Gabriella Miller Kids First Research Act 2.0 2024-12-20 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate VA Tim Kaine K000384 www.kaine.senate.gov kaine https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton (D-VA-10) and Senators Tim Kaine and Mark R. Warner (both D-VA) celebrated the Senate passage of their bipartisan Gabriella Miller Kids First Research Act 2.0. The bill reauthorizes federal funding for the National Institute of Health’s (NIH) Gabriella Miller Kids First Pediatric Research Program (Kids First), which the senators helped create to support lifesaving research of treatments and cures for childhood cancer since 2015. The bill was included in a draft government funding agreement that was reached earlier this week, but was later torpedoed by Elon Musk, Vivek Ramaswamy, and President-elect Donald Trump. The legislation is named in honor of Gabriella Miller, who lived in Virginia’s 10th District and was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor and passed away in 2013 at the age of 10. Her passionate advocacy for lawmakers to “stop talking, start doing” led to the passage of the Gabriella Miller Kids First Research Act and creation of Ten-Year Pediatric Research Initiative Fund in 2014. “For as long as I have been serving in Congress, I’ve been fighting to pass the Gabriella Miller Kids First Research Act 2.0 and extend critical funding for childhood cancer research,” said Wexton. “I’m so proud that we’ve finally gotten this lifesaving bill through Congress and on its way to be signed into law. This bipartisan bill will build on the groundbreaking work of the Kids First program and deliver much-needed resources to better understand, treat, and hopefully one day cure childhood cancer. No family should have to face the fear and pain of their child’s cancer diagnosis, and I’m grateful for the partnership of Senator Tim Kaine and the remarkable advocacy of Ellyn Miller and the Miller family in honor of Gabriella and her fight, to build support for this bill.” “Gabriella Miller was a courageous Virginian who gave her all to advocating for those whose lives have been touched by childhood cancer,” said Kaine. “I’m honored to have worked with the Miller Fa… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/warner-and-kaine-celebrate-passage-of-bills-to-name-post-offices-after-madeleine-albright-and-john-mercer-langston Warner & Kaine Celebrate Passage of Bills to Name Post Offices after Madeleine Albright and John Mercer Langston 2024-12-20 2024 2024-12 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 (both D-VA) today celebrated the Senate passage of bills they introduced to rename two United States Postal Service (USPS) offices in Loudoun County and Petersburg. “Madeleine Albright and John Mercer Langston were trailblazers who overcame tremendous barriers in their respective fights for human rights and social justice. We are thrilled to see these bills get full congressional approval, which brings us one step closer to enshrining these important legacies in Loudoun County and Petersburg. We look forward to seeing President Biden sign these bills into law,” said the senators. The first bill would designate the Loudoun County post office, in Purcellville, as the "Secretary of State Madeleine Albright Post Office Building.” The bill, introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by Rep. Jennifer Wexton (D-VA), honors Secretary Albright, the first female Secretary of State and former Ambassador to the United Nations. The second bill would designate the Petersburg post office as the "John Mercer Langston Post Office Building." The bill, introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by Rep. Jennifer McClellan (D-VA), honors the Louisa County native and 19th century abolitionist and attorney, who served as one of the first Black Americans to hold elective office in the United States. These post office facilities are located at 220 North Hatcher Avenue in Purcellville, Virginia and 29 Franklin Street in Petersburg, Virginia. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.kaine.senate.gov/press-releases/wexton-warner-and-kaine-applaud-senate-passage-of-bill-to-designate-george-c-marshall-house-as-a-national-park-service-affiliated-area Wexton, Warner & Kaine Applaud Senate Passage of Bill to Designate George C. Marshall House as a National Park Service Affiliated Area 2024-12-20 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate VA Tim Kaine K000384 www.kaine.senate.gov kaine https://www.kaine.senate.gov/news scraper WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Representative Jennifer Wexton (D-VA-10) and U.S. Senators Mark R. Warner and Tim Kaine (both D-VA) applauded the unanimous Senate passage of legislation to designate the General George C. Marshall House in Leesburg, known as Dodona Manor, as an affiliated area under the National Park Service (NPS). The lawmakers have advocated for years for an official designation, which would provide new resources to preserve and celebrate General Marshall’s legacy at the site, including technical assistance to support restoration efforts, accessibility improvements, and new programming. “Dodona Manor has a clear historic value to our nation and turning it into an affiliated area under NPS is a fitting way to honor General Marshall’s life and legacy,” said the lawmakers. “We’re glad our legislation to help make that happen was passed by the Senate today and hope to see this designation come to fruition.” General Marshall led a lifetime of public service, serving as Chief of Staff to the Army during America’s entry into World War II, as Secretary of State where he orchestrated the historic Marshall Plan to rebuild Europe following the war, and as Secretary of Defense after the onset of the Korean War. Dodona Manor is currently registered as a National Historic Landmark by the Department of the Interior and has been designated by the Commonwealth of Virginia as a Virginia Landmark. The Marshall House has been an integral part of the Leesburg community for over two centuries. General Marshall and his wife Katherine purchased the property in 1941 as a weekend retreat house, and regularly spent time at the property throughout General Marshall’s tenure as Secretary of State and Secretary of Defense. Today, the property hosts international exchanges, historical exhibits, community events, and educational programming about the life and legacy of the Marshall family. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/at-peters-urging-senate-passes-bipartisan-legislation-to-prevent-authorities-to-address-drone-threats-from-expiring At Peters’ Urging, Senate Passes Bipartisan Legislation to Prevent Authorities to Address Drone Threats from Expiring 2024-12-20 2024 2024-12 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 U.S. Senate unanimously passed bipartisan legislation authored by U.S. Senator Gary Peters?(D-MI), Chairman of the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, to prevent the current authorities used by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to disable drones that pose a security threat from expiring tonight at midnight. Peters’ Counter-UAS Authority Extension Act, which he introduced with U.S. Senators Ron Johnson (R-WI), James Lankford (R-OK) and Andy Kim (D-NJ), extends the counter-drone authorities through September 30, 2025. “As we near the deadline to fund the government tonight without a clear path from my Republican colleagues in the House, it appears that we're once again on the brink of a government shutdown. And when the clock runs out at midnight, the current authorities that the Department of Homeland Security and the FBI have to safely disable drones that pose a security threat will also expire, and we simply cannot let that happen,” said Senator Peters. “I just received unanimous consent to pass a bill that will extend the current authorities for one year. I appreciate my Senate colleagues for joining me in passing this legislation so that our federal law enforcement agencies can continue to protect against dangerous drones while giving us additional time to work on bipartisan legislation that Senator Johnson and I have authored to strengthen counter drone efforts.” To watch video of Senator Peters’ remarks, click here. There are currently more than 1 million drones registered in the United States. This rapidly growing number of drones create a higher risk of both unintentional disasters and malicious activity from foreign adversaries or criminal organizations that seek to weaponize drones or engage in illegal activities. Recent reports of menacing drones in New Jersey and communities across the country have highlighted the need to pass and expand the ability of law enforcement agencies to be able to safely disable… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.peters.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-peters-urges-commerce-department-to-finalize-new-rule-to-protect-national-security-and-secure-us-automotive-supply-chains Senator Peters Urges Commerce Department to Finalize New Rule to Protect National Security and Secure U.S. Automotive Supply Chains 2024-12-20 2024 2024-12 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. Senator Gary Peters (MI) urged the U.S. Department of Commerce to finalize its recently announced rule that would protect American consumers and companies against the national security threats posed by allowing vehicles and technologies controlled by Chinese Community Party-backed (CCP) companies to be imported or sold in the United States. The letter underscored the significant national security concerns associated with key Chinese-controlled vehicles and connected technologies in vehicles. This rule would also help to secure the U.S. automotive supply chain and protect the United States’ global leadership in automotive innovation as China seeks to flood the global automotive market with highly subsidized Chinese vehicles. “We cannot allow technologies from foreign entities of concern on our roads that can store and share Americans’ personal data, commit espionage, and even manipulate our cars,” Peters wrote. “The Department of Commerce, and your Office in particular, is at the forefront of the Administration’s effort to protect and defend Americans from vehicles that could compromise our national security. I welcomed the work of your team in recent months to propose a comprehensive rule that protects against the urgent and significant national security threat posed by the sale and import of vehicles and vehicle technology controlled or vulnerable to manipulation by our adversaries. This rule would help improve the security of the U.S. automotive supply chain, keep the United States at the forefront of global mobility innovation, and create more good-paying jobs here at home.” The letter continued: “Now that the public comment period for the proposed rule has closed, I urge you to quickly consider stakeholder input and take the necessary steps to finalize this rule. I look forward to our continued work together to secure our supply chains and support American manufacturing on a level playing field. Peters has consistently worked to combat the national security and economic threats posed … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/reed-and-whitehouse-steer-extra-9m-to-ridot-in-bipartisan-water-infrastructure-bill Reed & Whitehouse Steer Extra $9M to RIDOT in Bipartisan Water Infrastructure Bill 2024-12-20 2024 2024-12 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 Rhode Island’s water infrastructure, help the state tap into transportation dollars, and promote Ocean State economic development, U.S. Senators Jack Reed, a leading member of the Appropriations Committee, and Sheldon Whitehouse, the next Ranking Member of the Senate Environment and Public Works (EPW) Committee, helped pass the Thomas R. Carper Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2024. This legislation authorizes the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to carry out projects that enhance our nation’s ports, harbors, inland waterway navigation, flood and storm protection, and other critical water infrastructure. This year’s bill also includes provisions to help states, including Rhode Island, unlock unused transportation funds that have accumulated under the Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act (TIFIA) program. The bill directs the U.S. Secretary of Transportation (USDOT) to transfer $1.8 billion in unused TIFIA funding to the states through the existing Surface Transportation Block Grant program, which provides flexible funding to states for key transportation projects. It also directs USDOT to redistribute 75 percent of any future unused amounts out of the $250 million provided to TIFIA annually in each of FY 2025 and 2026. As a result, the Rhode Island Department of Transportation (RIDOT) will receive an additional one-time allocation of roughly $9 million that the state may use toward key transportation priorities. This year’s WRDA also reauthorizes the Economic Development Administration (EDA) to help spur development in distressed local communities across the country. Through its grant programs, EDA helps local communities plan for economic development activities, construct ‘last-mile’ infrastructure, and mitigate the effects of short- and long-term economic challenges and disasters. “WRDA invests in our waterways and help keeps commerce flowing. I worked on a bipartisan basis to help unlock an estimated $9 million in transportation funding for … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases/ri-delegation-applauds-final-passage-of-legislation-creating-a-southern-new-england-regional-commission RI Delegation Applauds Final Passage of Legislation Creating a Southern New England Regional Commission 2024-12-20 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate RI Jack Reed R000122 www.reed.senate.gov jackreed https://www.reed.senate.gov/news/releases scraper WASHINGTON, DC – U.S. Senators Jack Reed (D-RI) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI) and Representatives Seth Magaziner (D-RI) and Gabe Amo (D-RI) today cheered the final passage of legislation establishing a Southern New England Regional Commission to spur region-wide economic growth and attract more federal investment to Rhode Island. The legislation passed as part of the Thomas R. Carper Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2024, which authorizes improvements to our nation’s harbors and waterways, invests in coastal resiliency efforts, and supports U.S. Army Corps of Engineers projects nationwide. The Senate cleared the bill by a vote of 97 to 1, and the measure passed the House last week by a vote of 399-18. The legislation now heads to President Biden’s desk to be signed into law. “This is good news for Rhode Island, as is the fact that Senator Whitehouse is ascending to the top of the Environment and Public Works Committee. He’s always been a strong advocate for the Ocean State with an outstanding record of delivering for working families. The inclusion of this provision is a credit to him, as well as former Congressman David Cicilline, who worked the issue for many years as part of the Democratic leadership on the House side during his term in office,” said Reed. “Today’s bipartisan passage of WRDA has some big wins for Rhode Island, but none bigger than the establishment of a Southern New England Regional Commission. During his years in the House, my former colleague Congressman Cicilline was the driving force behind this effort, which will leverage partnerships between local, state, and the federal government to boost the regional economy across state lines and bring home additional federal funding to Rhode Island. I’m proud to have helped secure this long-fought victory for Congressman Cicilline and for Rhode Island,” said Whitehouse, who in the next Congress will be the top Democrat on the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, where WRDA is drafted. “The establishment of a Southern New Engla… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/schumer-gillibrand-announce-extension-of-buy-america-provisions-for-stainless-steel-flatware-in-annual-defense-bill-boosting-made-in-america-flatware-like-at-sherrill-manufacturing-in-oneida-county SCHUMER, GILLIBRAND ANNOUNCE EXTENSION OF BUY-AMERICA PROVISIONS FOR STAINLESS STEEL FLATWARE IN ANNUAL DEFENSE BILL, BOOSTING ‘MADE IN AMERICA’ FLATWARE LIKE AT SHERRILL MANUFACTURING IN ONEIDA... 2024-12-20 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate NY Charles E. Schumer S000148 www.schumer.senate.gov schumer https://www.schumer.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper Schumer And Gillibrand Deliver On Key Legislation Directing The Department of Defense (DoD) To Procure Stainless Steel Flatware and Dinnerware From Domestic Sources, Helping Drive New Growth At American Flatware Producers Such As Oneida County’s Sherrill Manufacturing Senators Say Extension Of ‘SPOONSS Act’ In Annual Defense Bill Will Restore Long-Standing Domestic Sourcing Requirements, Protecting Good-Paying Jobs In The Mohawk Valley Schumer, Gillibrand: The Bipartisan ‘SPOONSS Act’ Will Put A Fork In Unfair Foreign Competition From Countries Like China By Requiring Our Military To Purchase American-Made Dinnerware & Flatware From Companies Like Sherrill! U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand today announced they secured a key victory for Upstate New York in the final National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2025 (FY25) that will extend the Support Procurement of our Nation’s Stainless Steel (SPOONSS) Act, reinstating the Berry Amendment’s long-standing Department of Defense domestic sourcing requirement for stainless steel flatware and dinnerware. Following Schumer’s and Gillibrand’s successful efforts to secure this extension in the Senate NDAA, they tirelessly worked to ensure it was included in the final bill which passed the Senate on December 18. Now that it’s been included in the must-pass legislation, SPOONSS is headed to the president’s desk before the year’s end. “Sherrill Manufacturing has produced the very finest, American-made flatware and dinnerware in Oneida County for generations, which is why I’ve long pushed for the United States government to use its buying power to support Sherrill’s world-class workers in the Mohawk Valley. Today, I am proud to say we’ve delivered on a genuine kitchen table issue for Mohawk Valley residents while also sticking a fork in unfair foreign competition from countries like China by requiring our military to purchase utensils and flatware from American manufacturers in this year’s national defense b… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.shaheen.senate.gov/news/press/shaheen-warns-against-impacts-of-republican-manufactured-shutdown-urges-colleagues-to-pass-bipartisan-agreement-to-keep-government-open-and-provide-disaster-relief Shaheen Warns Against Impacts of Republican-Manufactured Shutdown, Urges Colleagues to Pass Bipartisan Agreement to Keep Government Open and Provide Disaster Relief 2024-12-20 2024 2024-12 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 U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee, took to the Senate floor to warn against the impacts of a possible Republican-manufactured government shutdown on Granite Staters, and called for her colleagues to pass the bipartisan agreement to keep the government open and provide disaster relief, including for funding that would go to New Hampshire farmers impacted by crop losses last year and to repair the Coast Guard’s Portsmouth station. You can watch the Senator’s full remarks here. Key quotes from Senator Shaheen: “President-elect Trump hasn't even been sworn in office yet and already he's thrown the government into chaos. That's really unfortunate because the people who are going to be hurt the most are the ones that we serve as representatives, as senators right here in Congress, and that's the American people.” “Shutting down the government just days before Christmas means that thousands of federal workers will be forced to work without pay. In New Hampshire, our farmers could lose out on disaster aid that they need to recover from devastating crop losses last year. The health clinics that are vital to Granite Staters will shutter. The Coast Guard wouldn't get the funding it needs for repairs at the Portsmouth station.” “The WIC program—women, infants and children—helps feed more than 12,000 people in New Hampshire, and if we don't act now, funding to continue to support thousands of women and newborns will be at risk. So, let me say it again: this harm is being inflicted on women, children and families, and it is avoidable.” “Democrats and Republicans negotiated in good faith. We agreed to keep the government open through a negotiated process. We agreed to provide disaster relief and to support critical needs for working families. We were ready to vote so we could keep the lights on here, so we could turn the Christmas lights on at home for so many working people across this country. And now because the world's richest man, … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/graham-and-van-hollen-introduce-bipartisan-sanctions-against-turkey Van Hollen and Graham Introduce Bipartisan Sanctions Against Turkey 2024-12-20 2024 2024-12 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 (D-Md.) and Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) introduced bipartisan sanctions legislation following concerns about military action by Turkey or Turkish-backed groups in northern Syria. The Senators released the following statement upon introduction: “Today, we introduced the Countering Turkish Aggression Act of 2024 while stressing that the United States should work with Turkey – through diplomatic means – to facilitate a sustained ceasefire and demilitarized zone along the border between Turkey and Syria, particularly the city of Kobani. These sanctions seek to prevent further Turkish or Turkish-backed attacks on the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), which risk the reemergence of ISIS, threatening the national security of the U.S. and the rest of the globe. “We remain hopeful that there will be a peaceful resolution to the problems that plague Syria.” 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.vanhollen.senate.gov/news/press-releases/van-hollen-cardin-celebrate-senate-passage-of-historic-92-million-reauthorization-of-the-chesapeake-bay-program-and-other-key-watershed-conservation-measures Van Hollen, Cardin Celebrate Senate Passage of Historic $92 Million Reauthorization of the Chesapeake Bay Program and Other Key Watershed Conservation Measures 2024-12-20 2024 2024-12 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.) celebrated passage this week of America’s Conservation Enhancement (ACE) Reauthorization Act in the U.S. Senate. The legislation reauthorizes important habitat and wildlife conservation efforts in the Chesapeake Bay Watershed and throughout the country. The bipartisan legislation builds on previous efforts to protect and preserve ecosystems from evolving threats such as invasive species and wildlife diseases. “A healthy Bay is central to the health of our communities and our local economies. That’s why we fought to pass this legislation that includes key investments in protecting and preserving the Bay -- including through the Chesapeake WILD program, the Chesapeake Bay Program, and the Chesapeake Gateways. These resources will strengthen our efforts to improve water quality, restore the Bay, and enhance public access to Maryland’s natural treasures,” said Senator Van Hollen. “The America’s Conservation Enhancement Act (ACE) of 2024 is a victory for the Chesapeake Bay. Collaborative conservation has always been at the heart of the Chesapeake Bay restoration effort and the ACE Act of 2024 reaffirms the federal government’s role in the stewardship of the Bay and provides the program stability during this dynamic period in the restoration effort,” said Senator Cardin. The comprehensive wildlife package includes a provision to reauthorize the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Chesapeake Bay Program at $92 million each fiscal year through fiscal year 2030. The EPA Chesapeake Bay Program is the linchpin of the restoration effort, which coordinates the unique multi-state and federal partnership. Other key reauthorizations include: The Chesapeake Watershed Investment for Landscape Defense (WILD) Act which will allow the program authored by Senator Van Hollen and supported by Senator Cardin to continue to serve the region. It provides resources to conserve, steward, and enhance fish and wildlife habitats in addition to advancing related conservation values… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.warner.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/pressreleases?ID=E69F3865-BBDF-4F51-A933-79F13FCE3372 Warner & Kaine Celebrate Passage of Bills to Rename Post Offices after Madeleine Albright and John Mercer Langston 2024-12-20 2024 2024-12 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 (both D-VA) today celebrated the Senate passage of bills they introduced to rename two United States Postal Service (USPS) offices in Loudoun County and Petersburg. “Madeleine Albright and John Mercer Langston were trailblazers who overcame tremendous barriers in their respective fights for human rights and social justice. We are thrilled to see these bills get full congressional approval, which brings us one step closer to enshrining these important legacies in Loudoun County and Petersburg. We look forward to seeing President Biden sign these bills into law,” said the senators. The first bill would designate the Loudoun County post office, in Purcellville, as the "Secretary of State Madeleine Albright Post Office Building.” The bill, introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by Rep. Jennifer Wexton (D-VA), honors Secretary Albright, the first female Secretary of State and former Ambassador to the United Nations. The second bill would designate the Petersburg post office as the "John Mercer Langston Post Office Building." The bill, introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by Rep. Jennifer McClellan (D-VA), honors the Louisa County native and 19th century abolitionist and attorney, who served as one of the first Black Americans to hold elective office in the United States. These post office facilities are located at 220 North Hatcher Avenue in Purcellville, Virginia and 29 Franklin Street in Petersburg, Virginia. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.warren.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/warren-clarke-reintroduce-bill-to-establish-consistent-robust-medical-research-funding Warren, Clarke Reintroduce Bill to Establish Consistent, Robust Medical Research Funding 2024-12-20 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate MA Elizabeth Warren W000817 www.warren.senate.gov warren https://www.warren.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper Warren, Clarke Reintroduce Bill to Establish Consistent, Robust Medical Research Funding Bicameral bill would protect NIH, FDA funding from Washington funding fights Text of Bill (PDF) | One Pager (PDF) Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Representative Yvette D. Clarke (D-N.Y.) reintroduced their National Biomedical Research Act, a bill to provide the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) with predictable, robust funding for medical research and development. Senators Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), and Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) are cosponsors of the bill. The National Biomedical Research Act would create the Biomedical Innovation Fund, a new funding stream of $10 billion per year for select initiatives at the NIH and the FDA. The legislation specifies that the Biomedical Innovation Fund should supplement — not supplant — existing appropriations for the agencies; funds would only be available during years when Congress increases discretionary appropriations for NIH and FDA, thus ensuring that funding for medical research never falls below Fiscal Year 2024 levels. Fund dollars will also be available through interagency transfer to support research conducted jointly by the NIH or the FDA and other federal agencies. “The United States leads the world in biomedical innovation, and so much of that innovation happens in Massachusetts. Big federal investments in medical research and development help make this progress possible,” said Senator Warren. “Our bill would save lives by making sure our researchers have the resources to keep delivering lifesaving breakthroughs and treatments — regardless of who’s in charge in Washington.” “I am proud to partner with Senator Warren to reintroduce the National Biomedical Research Act. This legislation would provide researchers with the vital resources they need to continue diagn… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.warren.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/warren-hawley-merkley-push-automakers-on-their-opposition-to-car-owners-right-to-repair-their-own-vehicles Warren, Hawley, Merkley Push Automakers on Their Opposition to Car Owners’ Right to Repair Their Own Vehicles 2024-12-20 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate MA Elizabeth Warren W000817 www.warren.senate.gov warren https://www.warren.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper Warren, Hawley, Merkley Push Automakers on Their Opposition to Car Owners’ Right to Repair Their Own Vehicles Bipartisan Letter Criticizes Auto Industry Fearmongering “The industry has raised concerns about data sharing with independent repair shops to justify opposing right-to-repair, while earning profits from sharing large amounts of personal data with insurance companies.” Text of Letter (PDF) Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Josh Hawley (R-Mo.), and Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.) wrote to the leaders of each of the top 10 U.S. automakers with concerns about the companies’ fierce opposition to car owners’ right to repair the vehicles they own in the way they choose. The letters were sent to General Motors, Toyota, Ford, Hyundai Group, Stellantis, Honda, Nissan, Tesla, Subaru, and Volkswagen. The letters denounce automakers’ actions to prevent vehicle owners from taking their vehicle to the mechanic of their choice by blocking vehicle owners’ ability to access or share information necessary for repair, like diagnostic data. These repair restrictions are an example of companies’ opposition to “right-to-repair,” which refers to a person’s ability to choose where they repair the products they own, including vehicles, consumer electronics, household appliances, agricultural equipment, and other goods. Without restrictions on right-to-repair, a vehicle owner can go to a local mechanic of their choice and is not forced to go to the manufacturer or car dealer for maintenance and repair of their vehicle. By restricting right-to-repair, equipment manufacturers like car companies can create a monopoly on vehicle repairs, allowing them to raise prices. Customers consistently rate independent repair shops better on price (as well as overall satisfaction) than dealerships, which nearly all receive the worst possible ratings from car owners on price. Right-to-repair is also crucial for local economies, with more than half of independent repair shops reporting difficulty in making repairs on a daily … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.warren.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/warren-smith-renew-fight-to-strengthen-us-pharmaceutical-manufacturing-capacity-and-end-over-reliance-on-foreign-countries-for-life-saving-drugs Warren, Smith Renew Fight to Strengthen U.S. Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Capacity and End Over-Reliance on Foreign Countries for Life-Saving Drugs 2024-12-20 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate MA Elizabeth Warren W000817 www.warren.senate.gov warren https://www.warren.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper Warren, Smith Renew Fight to Strengthen U.S. Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Capacity and End Over-Reliance on Foreign Countries for Life-Saving Drugs Bill Text (PDF) | Bill One-Pager (PDF) Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Tina Smith (D-Minn.) reintroduced the Pharmaceutical Supply Chain Defense and Enhancement Act, a bill to reinvigorate the United States' manufacturing capacity and end the nation's reliance on foreign countries for critical drugs used by millions of Americans. 77% of the facilities that manufacture active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) used in drugs consumed by Americans are located overseas. As demonstrated by the COVID-19 pandemic, this overreliance leaves Americans vulnerable to supply chain shocks that result in extreme shortages of critical medicines, harming patients and health care professionals across the nation. The United States must take steps to counter this overreliance and ensure that reliable and high-quality drugs can be produced at home. The Pharmaceutical Supply Chain Defense and Enhancement Act would: Require the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and Defense Department to develop a confidential list of "critical drugs" essential for public health and national security. Lower the cost of domestic production by providing $1 billion a year for 5 years to the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority, to dramatically upgrade domestic manufacturing capacity of “critical drugs.” Require the Defense Department, Department of Veterans Affairs, Department of Health and Human Services, and Federal Bureau of Prisons to purchase American-made drugs and provide funding to subsidize the purchase of these drugs, creating a market for domestically-produced pharmaceuticals. Boosts supply chain transparency by requiring drugmakers to annually report to the FDA information about the source of APIs and starting materials used to make drugs consumed in the United States; requiring drugmakers to report information on foreign manufacturers in the… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/erkley-wyden-197-million-in-federal-housing-funding-coming-to-oregon-for-statewide-tribal-initiatives Merkley, Wyden: $19.7 Million in Federal Housing Funding Coming to Oregon for Statewide, Tribal Initiatives 2024-12-20 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate OR Ron Wyden W000779 www.wyden.senate.gov wyden https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden announced today that the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) awarded $19,742,170 to revitalize and modernize manufactured housing and eligible manufactured housing communities across Oregon. “As communities and Tribes in every corner of the state face their biggest housing affordability crises in decades—with rents dramatically outpacing incomes—we must do everything we can to invest in solutions to the ongoing housing and homelessness crisis,” Merkley said. “At my town halls in all 36 Oregon counties, I hear about housing challenges in communities big and small across our state. This $19.7 million federal award will support affordable and safe manufactured homes to help more families have a safe, decent place to live.” “Manufactured housing plays a significant role in making the cost of a home less expensive throughout Oregon,” Wyden said. “That’s what makes this federal investment such a welcome development in the battle to keep designing an affordability housing blueprint statewide for communities and Tribes. I’m glad these resources have been secured, and will keep working to build out similar housing opportunities for Oregonians in every nook and cranny of our state.” The funding comes from HUD’s Office of Community Planning and Development, which is awarding Preservation and Reinvestment Initiative for Community Enhancement (PRICE) grants, to preserve long-term housing affordability for residents of manufactured housing and manufactured housing communities (MHCs), to redevelop MHCs, and to primarily benefit low- and moderate-income residents. PRICE grants support manufactured housing across America— providing a home to over 22 million Americans and helping to solve our nation’s housing affordability crisis. The PRICE grants awarded to Oregon are as follows: 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/merkley-wyden-announce-over-33-million-for-southern-oregon-critical-wildlife-crossing Merkley, Wyden Announce Over $33 Million for Southern Oregon Critical Wildlife Crossing 2024-12-20 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate OR Ron Wyden W000779 www.wyden.senate.gov wyden https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden announced today that the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) is receiving $33,182,188 in federal funding to construct the Mariposa Preserve Wildlife Crossing over I-5 in Southern Oregon through the heart of the Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument. Once complete, the wildlife crossing will be among the largest in the nation to significantly improve the movement of a wide-array of animals, while increasing the safety of drivers traveling on I-5 between Ashland and the California border. This historic investment comes through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Highways Administration Wildlife Crossings Pilot Program—made possible by the Inflation Reduction Act—and builds off the $400,000 community-initiated project that Merkley and Wyden secured earlier this year for the design and engineering phase of the project, which was needed to reach today’s milestone. “What a huge win for Southern Oregon! This first-ever I-5 wildlife crossing in Oregon will be instrumental in safeguarding all the special species that call the Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument home, while protecting drivers from dangerous wildlife collisions and costly damages to their vehicles,” said Merkley. “I’ve long championed efforts to strengthen the Cascade-Siskiyou area, and this latest federal investment I pushed to secure will certainly go a long way toward protecting drivers and the diverse wildlife that are entwined with this spectacular landscape that’s unlike anywhere in the world.” “Ensuring that native species have safe access across I-5 not only protects sensitive ecosystems affected by large roadways, but it also helps increase safety for motorists,” said Wyden. “This investment in wildlife crossing infrastructure that serves both the environment and Oregonians is exactly what I fought for in the Inflation Reduction Act, and I will continue to advocate for more resources that support these important projects across Oregon.” “With this significant in… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/merkley-wyden-announce-over-4-million-for-high-speed-broadband-infrastructure-headed-to-lane Merkley, Wyden Announce Over $4 Million for High-Speed Broadband Infrastructure Headed to Lane 2024-12-20 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate OR Ron Wyden W000779 www.wyden.senate.gov wyden https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden announced today a $4,419,306 grant for high-speed broadband internet infrastructure in Lane County. This federal investment for Pioneer Telephone Cooperative will be used to deploy a fiber-to-the-premises network to provide high-speed internet. This network will benefit 75 people, 12 businesses, and eight farms in Lane County. The funding is provided through the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) ReConnect Program. “Access to high-speed internet is critical for individuals, families, small businesses, and farms across Oregon,” Merkley said. “Yet many areas still lack reliable service, creating challenges for staying connected in the 21st century economy. This federal investment will expand broadband in Lane County, helping residents strengthen their economies and enhance their quality of life.” ?? 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/merkley-wyden-critical-water-infrastructure-bill-headed-to-the-presidents-desk Merkley, Wyden: Critical Water Infrastructure Bill Headed to the President’s Desk 2024-12-20 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate OR Ron Wyden W000779 www.wyden.senate.gov wyden https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden announced today that critical projects and policy initiatives for Oregon included in the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2024 have passed Congress and now head to the president’s desk to be signed into law. Their authorization sets the stage for Oregon to secure essential water infrastructure funding. “Water is the lifeblood of our state. Updating and modernizing aging water infrastructure – including ports, levees, dams and much more – will better prepare Oregonians and their communities for droughts and floods, and give them access to safe, reliable drinking water,” said Merkley, who helped write the bill as a senior member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee. “This critical bill is indispensable to waterways across Oregon and ensures water infrastructure is maintained and improved for generations to come.” “Oregon’s ports, harbors, waterways and more generate jobs statewide that are a must to keep our economy flowing,” Wyden said. “All of that vital infrastructure requires investments just like these to keep it modern, safe and effective so Oregonians can count on clean drinking water and reliable transport of goods.” WRDA 2024 includes several projects and policy initiatives in Oregon including: Port of Portland Dredging Vessel: Includes authority to replace the Dredge Oregon vessel at the Port of Portland. Oregon Statewide Environmental Infrastructure Authority: Authorizes $200 million in funding for water infrastructure efforts across Oregon such as water conservation projects, ecosystem restoration projects, stormwater management, surface water protection, and environmental restoration. Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR) Projects: Includes a technical correction regarding CTUIR projects in the Walla Walla River. Columbia and Willamette River Pile Dike Maintenance Definition Clarification: Clarifies and directs the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Portland District to maintain the … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases/wyden-merkley-announce-nearly-46-million-for-drought-and-resiliency-programs-in-the-klamath-basin Wyden, Merkley Announce Nearly $4.6 Million for Drought and Resiliency Programs in the Klamath Basin 2024-12-20 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate OR Ron Wyden W000779 www.wyden.senate.gov wyden https://www.wyden.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper The Bureau of Reclamation award will benefit projects by The Klamath Tribes, Hoopa Valley Tribe, Karuk Tribe, Modoc Nation, Pulikla Tribe of Yurok People, and Yurok Tribe. Washington D.C.—U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley today announced a federal investment of $4.6 million for six Klamath Basin Tribes to support 14 projects aimed at combating drought and building resilience in Tribal communities across the region. “Resiliency in the face of drought is essential for rural communities to thrive like those that depend on the Klamath Basin,” Wyden said. “This investment is critical to combat persistent drought caused by the climate crisis, and maintaining the progress local Tribes have achieved with ecosystem restoration projects. I will continue to fight for additional resources to support recovery and resilience in the Klamath Basin and across Oregon.” “Prolonged drought is having severe impacts across the Klamath Basin, harming our Tribal and rural communities, fish, and wildlife,” said Merkley. “These federal investments for Klamath Basin Tribes to build greater drought resilience, improve water infrastructure, and boost ecosystem restoration will make this unique region’s water go farther for the people and delicate ecosystems that rely on it. I will continue to champion recovery efforts in the Basin and for all of Oregon to prepare and respond to the more frequent and devastating droughts caused by climate chaos.” This investment from the Bureau of Reclamation will go to projects developed by The Klamath Tribes, Hoopa Valley Tribe, Karuk Tribe, Modoc Nation, Pulikla Tribe of Yurok People, and Yurok Tribe. Of the 14 projects, eight will help Tribes conduct environmental and ecosystem analysis and data collection to prepare for drought, restore ecosystems, and build resilience. The remaining projects will focus on general drought preparation, capacity building, outreach, and infrastructure improvements. “We extend appreciation and offer our thanks to the Oregon Congressional Delegation, Senators Jeff… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z

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