Press releases
Data license: MIT · Data source: dwillis/congress-press
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339 rows where chamber = "Senate", party = "Independent" and year = 2023 sorted by date descending
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| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/in-december-podcast-king-discusses-new-gun-safety-legislation-with-senator-mark-kelly-and-former-maine-us-marshal | In December Podcast, King Discusses New Gun Safety Legislation with Senator Mark Kelly and Former Maine U.S. Marshal | 2023-12-30 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Office of U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) today released the December episode of his “Inside Maine” podcast, in which he discussed new gun safety legislation to save lives in Maine and across the country. During the podcast, U.S. Senator Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.) joined Senator King to discuss the GOSAFE ACT which they recently introduced to limit the sale, manufacture and transfer of gas-operated semi-automatic firearms like the one used during the October 25th attack in Lewiston. Later in the podcast, retired U.S. Marshal Chief Noel C. March shared insights from his four decades in law enforcement on gun safety, community engagement, and how the GOSAFE Act would save lives and make it easier for law enforcement to respond to mass shootings. According to the Gun Violence Archive, there have been more mass shootings in the United States in 2023 than days. “For too long, communities across our country have felt the devastation and heartbreak of America’s gun violence epidemic – with each mass shooting and senseless act of violence leaving Americans to wonder if they or their loved ones will be next,” said Senator King. We owe it to the people of Maine, and victims of gun violence across the country, to prevent more gun violence while protecting the 2nd Amendment rights of law-abiding Americans. Saving lives remains my one and only goal.” As the son of two police officers, Senator Mark Kelly learned the value of public service at an early age. Senator Kelly earned his B.S. degree in marine engineering and nautical science from the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy and later an M.S. degree in aeronautical engineering from the U.S. Naval Postgraduate School. As a Navy pilot, he made multiple deployments on the aircraft carrier USS Midway and flew 39 combat missions in Operation Desert Storm. Senator Kelly is the recipient of the Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit, two Distinguished Flying Crosses, and multiple Air Medals. He has logged more than 5,000 flight hours in more than 50 differ… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-urges-va-treasury-department-to-simplify-travel-reimbursements-for-medical-care | King Urges VA, Treasury Department to Simplify Travel Reimbursements for Medical Care | 2023-12-21 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King, a member of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee (SVAC), is urging the Department of Treasury and Department of Veterans Affairs to better support veterans seeking the benefits they’ve earned. In a letter to Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen and VA Secretary Denis McDonough, King and a bipartisan group of colleagues urge the federal government to address some important structural issues within the VA’s travel reimbursement program that is affecting the ability of veterans – especially low-income veterans and veterans in remote rural communities – to managing their VA Beneficiary Travel Pay reimbursements. Under current federal law, most low-income veterans and veterans with a service-connected disability are entitled to reimbursements for travel to and from their VA medical appointments. For many veterans, especially low-income veterans in rural communities who have to travel long distances to access their VA health care, these reimbursements are essential. However, the current system for VA Beneficiary Travel Pay reimbursements has left too many veterans, who are entitled to travel reimbursement, waiting months with hundreds of dollars in unpaid claims at any one time – putting their financial stability at risk. “Veterans who rely on this and other VA programs should have an easy way to ensure that they are receiving the benefits they are owed,” wrote the senators. “Our veterans deserve much better, especially when they are simply trying to receive the benefits they have earned.” Many veterans across the country have complex health conditions and require numerous medical appointments each month. Under the current system, veterans who receive travel reimbursements via direct deposit are unable to reconcile travel claim payments with their bank statements. When veterans receive multiple reimbursements on varying timelines, it is exceptionally difficult to determine the status of each individual claim, leaving many veterans with outstanding claims they are unable to acc… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-colleagues-demand-va-better-protect-veterans-from-prescription-opioid-abuse | King, Colleagues Demand VA Better Protect Veterans from Prescription Opioid Abuse | 2023-12-18 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Angus King, a member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, is calling on the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to step up its efforts to protect veterans from prescription opioid abuse. In a letter from King and his committee colleagues to VA Secretary Denis McDonough, the Senators are urging the department to take swift action following reports that found a majority of non-VA health care providers are not meeting the VA prescription opioid safety standards. A recent report from the VA Office of Inspector General (OIG) found third-party administrators have failed to provide adequate oversight of whether Veterans Community Care Network health care providers were completing and certifying VA’s Opioid Safety Initiative (OSI) training. The OIG also found approximately 14,700 of 18,200 non-VA providers in the Community Care Network who prescribed opioids to veterans in fiscal year 2021 had not completed VA’s OSI training and did not certify their mandated review of VA’s guidelines. Lapses in oversight have resulted in the over prescription of opioids from both the VA and Community Care Network providers — increasing veterans’ risk of sedation and overdose. “We write today to discuss our concerns with the Department of Veterans Affairs’ oversight of non-VA providers who prescribe opioids to veterans,” the Senators wrote in a letter to VA Secretary Denis McDonough. “In Fiscal Year 2022, the Department spent more than $27 billion in the community for health care services for veterans. VA must ensure the dollars it spends result in high-quality, safe care for veterans.” “It is clear VA and its contracted third-party administrators failed to do their due diligence in ensuring the health and safety of the veterans in their care…As stated many times before, we feel if there is an issue at one location, it will likely occur elsewhere. The Department must work not only to address the shortcomings outlined in these OIG reports but also to ensure lessons learned are implemented system-w… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-join-bipartisan-resolution-condemning-hamas-use-of-rape-during-october-7th-terrorist-attack-on-israel | Collins, King Join Bipartisan Resolution Condemning Hamas’ Use of Rape During October 7th Terrorist Attack on Israel | 2023-12-15 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senators Susan Collins, Vice Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee, and Angus King, a member of the Senate Armed Services and Intelligence Committees, have joined a bipartisan resolution condemning Hamas for using sexual and gender-based violence as a weapon of war against Israelis during the October 7th terrorist attack. More than 1,200 people were killed on October 7, 2023 by Hamas in its terrorist attack against Israel, the deadliest terror attack in the country’s history. Since the initial attack, investigators have spoken to survivors, witnesses, first responders, and viewed security footage to determine that dozens of women were raped and sexually-assaulted during the attack. International organizations like Human Rights Watch and the United Nations have passed resolutions stating that rape and gender-based violence can constitute war crimes and crimes against humanity. “Hamas’ widespread use of sexual violence against women in Israel during the terrorist attack on October 7 must be condemned unequivocally,” said Senator Collins. “It is imperative that we unite against these barbaric acts to hold Hamas accountable, support survivors, and provide justice for victims.” “Violence against women is a barbaric, inhuman tactic and most recently was used indiscriminately as a weapon of war during the October 7th terrorist attack against Israel,” said Senator King. “The atrocities of gender-based violence must always be called out and condemned wherever, whenever and to whomever the violence occurs. Hamas has repeatedly called for the complete annihilation of the Jewish people and rejects any peaceful resolution of Jewish and Palestinian territorial claims to the land stating, ‘There is no solution for the Palestinian question except through Jihad.’ Terrorism, including rape, will not create a more democratic Israel nor lead to self-determination for the hundreds of thousands of Palestinians who are not Hamas terrorists. We must be unwavering in our denunciation of rape and gende… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cyberspace-solarium-co-chairsndaa-marks-meaningful-advancements-in-cybersecurity | Cyberspace Solarium Co-Chairs: NDAA Marks “Meaningful” Advancements in Cybersecurity | 2023-12-15 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) and Representative Mike Gallagher (R-Wisc.), Co-Chairs of the Cyberspace Solarium Commission (CSC), today released the following statement on the inclusion of several key cybersecurity provisions in the final version of the Fiscal Year (FY) 2024 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). Once the President signs the bill into law, 58 out of the Cyberspace Solarium Commission’s 82 recommendations have now become law – roughly a seventy percent success rate. “It is critical that the United States continue to improve the cyber resiliency of its armed forces both at home and abroad, and the 2024 National Defense Authorization Act addresses this need with a meaningful provision to assess their ability to remain resilient and reconstitute functions in the case of a cyber emergency. This provision gets the ball rolling on the similar issue of continuity of the economy planning that the nation so desperately needs – a key recommendation of the Cyberspace Solarium Commission. “The security of our nuclear command, control, and communications mission is existentially important, and the NDAA’s focus on bolstering its cyber resiliency is wise and timely. This is one of the many important provisions of military cyber resiliency that we are proud to see in this year’s defense bill.” This year’s NDAA includes legislations to establish a pilot program to test the cyber resiliency and reconstitution of military installations in the event of an attack on regional critical infrastructure – a top priority of the CSC and its follow-on Cyber Solarium 2.0 effort. It also requires the establishment of a team dedicated to improving the cybersecurity of the systems and networks that support the nuclear command, control, and communications mission. Significant cybersecurity provisions supported by CSC in the 2024 National Defense Authorization Act include: A pilot program to test the cyber resiliency and reconstitution of military installations in the event of an attack on regional c… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-king-celebrate-wreaths-across-america-day | Senators Collins, King Celebrate Wreaths Across America Day | 2023-12-15 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | Washington, D.C. – The Senate unanimously passed a resolution introduced by U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King designating Saturday, December 16, 2023 as “Wreaths Across America Day.” The annual event honors our nation’s fallen heroes with commemorative Maine-made balsam wreaths laid by thousands of volunteers across the globe, including by a convoy that travels from Maine to Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia. “Wreaths Across America honors the service and sacrifice of the men and women who have served in the Armed Forces,” said Senators Collins and King. “The longevity and growth of this Maine-led tradition is a testament to our deeply rooted gratitude for our nation’s servicemembers, and the selfless dedication of all who make it possible each year.” “International Paper is proud to be a partner and supporter of Wreaths Across America. This day is an important tradition to commemorate our fallen heroes, and we are honored to be a part of this special day,” said Dr. Alissa Campbell Shaw, Senior Manager, Global Corporate Social Responsibility & Community Engagement, and Executive Director of the IP Foundation at International Paper, which operates a plant in Auburn. Wreaths Across America coordinates wreath-laying ceremonies at more than 2,200 locations across the United States and abroad. In 2022, approximately 2.5 million wreaths were laid, including more than 150,000 at Arlington National Cemetery. Each wreath is crafted in Maine. The general public can register to participate in Wreaths Across America at Arlington National Cemetery here. The full text of the resolution can be read here. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-introduce-bill-to-name-acadia-visitor-center-in-honor-of-former-majority-leader-george-mitchell | Collins, King Introduce Bill to Name Acadia Visitor Center in Honor of Former Majority Leader George Mitchell | 2023-12-14 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King, Chair of the Senate Subcommittee on National Parks, have introduced legislation to honor former Majority Leader U.S. Senator George Mitchell. The bill would designate the Hulls Cove Visitor Center at Acadia National Park as the “George J. Mitchell, Jr., Visitor Center”. George Mitchell, born in 1933 in Waterville, is an American politician and diplomat who served as a member of the U.S. Senate (1980–95), as majority leader (1989–95). He later served as a special adviser to the peace process in Northern Ireland under President Bill Clinton (1995–2000). Mitchell also served as a member of the special envoy to the Middle East under President Barack Obama (2009–11), and spent time in the judicial branch, when he was appointed by President Jimmy Carter in 1979 to serve on the U.S. District Court of Maine. “During his storied career in public service, George Mitchell was a peacemaker, a statesman, and a loyal champion of the State of Maine,” said Senator Collins. “Naming Acadia’s Visitor Center in his honor will serve as a reminder of his commitment to improving our country and inspire others to do the same.” “George Mitchell has dedicated his life to public service, working across all three branches of federal government, in pursuit of a more perfect union,” said Senator King. “Throughout his career, George Mitchell has largely embodied the character of our state motto—Dirigo— a leader working to resolve conflicts here in the United States and around the world. Renaming the Acadia National Park Visitor Center after Majority Leader Mitchell will remind Maine people and tourists alike what it means to give back, tackle hard challenges, and overcome the odds in an effort to provide a better future for generations to come.” “We would like to thank Senators King and Collins for their efforts to recognize Senator George Mitchell who has given so much to Acadia National Park by naming the Hulls Cove Visitor Center in his honor. As National Parks tell the stor… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-passes-final-2024-defense-bill-with-king-backed-provisions-to-strengthen-national-security-and-support-maine-jobs | Senate Passes Final 2024 Defense Bill with King-Backed Provisions to Strengthen National Security and Support Maine Jobs | 2023-12-14 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), a member of the Senate Armed Services and Intelligence Committees and Veterans Affairs Committee, hailed the bipartisan Senate passage of the Fiscal Year 2024 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) – which will strengthen America’s national security, support our men and women in uniform, and boost Maine communities through the dozens of businesses that serve the military’s technological and manufacturing needs. Today’s vote was on the final defense legislation after months of bicameral negotiations, and includes a number of provisions that Senator King backed, including: support for veterans, two Arleigh Burke-class destroyers that Bath Iron Works (BIW) can compete to build, provisions to address the security threats posed by artificial intelligence, and stronger measures to prevent illegal drugs from entering the country. It is now headed to the House of Representatives, where swift bipartisan passage is expected. “For over six decades, Congress has put aside partisan differences to improve America’s national security and support our servicemembers. I’m proud that we could continue the tradition this year to pass an annual defense bill that will make our nation—and our state—safer and stronger,” said Senator King. “As our global community faces some of its greatest challenges, the bill makes important investments in our military’s greatest asset – its people. We have a responsibility to serve our men and women in uniform just as they serve us, and this bill lives up to that obligation with the largest pay raise in more than 20 years and assistance for our military’s spouses. The legislation also supports good-paying jobs in Maine communities, particularly through its funding for shipbuilding at Bath Iron Works and Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. These funds will help the shipyards plan their futures, continue to build the highest-quality ships, and maintain the submarine fleet that our Navy needs to accomplish missions across the globe. “There are many more … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/congress-passes-kings-bipartisan-bill-for-easier-electronic-access-to-duck-hunting-permits | Congress Passes King’s Bipartisan Bill for Easier, Electronic Access to Duck Hunting Permits | 2023-12-13 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King, Vice-Chair of the Congressional Sportsmen’s Caucus, today celebrated the Congressional passage of legislation that will streamline the duck stamp process for Maine hunters. The bipartisan Duck Stamp Modernization Act of 2023 will provide access to the stamp on smartphones to help more people enjoy waterfowl hunting, remove barriers to getting outdoors, and increase revenue for conservation programs funded by stamp sales. The legislation passed the Senate in July and now heads the President’s desk for signature into law. “From Bean Boots to Old Town Canoes, generations of Maine people have pioneered innovations to make getting outdoors easier. Decades later, this same commitment still drives sportsmen and women across our state and is the guiding principle of the Congressional Sportsmen’s Caucus,” said Senator King. “The Duck Stamp Modernization Act of 2023 embraces 21st century technology to make the great outdoors more accessible than ever. I’m proud that Congress was able to work together on a bipartisan basis to continue making recreational activities a simpler pursuit for all.” All waterfowl hunters at or over the age of 16 must possess a current signed Federal Duck Stamp, along with state licenses and permits, to hunt legally. The Duck Stamp Modernization Act of 2023 builds off a successful pilot program in 28 states that offer E-Stamps for 45 days of hunting. Along with the digital access, physical Duck Stamps would still be available for purchase from the post office and other authorized retailers. The legislation is also cosponsored by Senators John Boozman (R-AR), Joe Manchin (D-WV), Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-KS), Tom Carper (D-DE), Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV) and Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA). Companion legislation was introduced in the House of Representatives by Congressmen Garret Graves (R-LA) and Mike Thompson (D-CA). The legislation is backed by a number of leading conservation and wildlife organizations including the Congressional Sportsmen’s Caucus and Du… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-and-king-announce-2023-maine-nominees-to-the-united-states-military-service-academies | Senators Collins and King Announce 2023 Maine Nominees to the United States Military Service Academies | 2023-12-13 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King today announced their nominees to the United States Military Academies. To be considered for an appointment to a service academy, applicants must be nominated by an authorized nominating source, which includes Members of Congress. Admission to the United States Coast Guard Academy, also a federal service academy, does not require a congressional nomination. “We are proud to have the honor to nominate such an impressive group of Maine students to our nation’s distinguished service academies,” said Senators Collins and King in a joint statement. “The young people we have nominated have earned this honor through a commitment to strong scholarship, leadership, and character.” The following students from Maine have received nominations as candidates to the military academies from Senators Collins and King: United States Air Force Academy – Colorado Springs Name Home Town High School Alec Smith Hermon Hermon High School Benjamin van den Heuvel Berwick Noble High School Brennan Mackey Rockport Camden Hills Regional High School Colby Ting Yarmouth Yarmouth High School Colter Olson Old Orchard Beach Yarmouth High School Jason Melanson Brewer Brewer High School Jonathan “Jack” Curtis Woolwich North Yarmouth Academy Lucas Mac Phee Ellsworth Homeschool Matthew Powers Turner North Yarmouth Academy Patrick Delaney Gorham Gorham High School Sofia Mavor Yarmouth Yarmouth High School Tyler Bartick Fryeburg Fryeburg High School United States Merchant Marine Academy - Kings Point Name Home Town High School Addison “Tadd” Nelson Bath Cheverus High School Aidan McAuslin Yarmouth North Yarmouth Academy Brady Kezal Saco Thornton Academy Cormac McKenney Cape Elizabeth Cape Elizabeth High School Giacomo Smith Whitefield Erskine Academy Unites States Military Academy - West Point Name Home Town High School Ashley Houde Saco Thornton Academy Brady Kezal Saco Thornton Academy Caden Dufour Turner Hebron Academy Casey McDonald Ellsworth Ellsworth High S… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cyberspace-solarium-co-chair-celebrates-senate-confirmation-of-national-cyber-director-nominee | Cyberspace Solarium Co-Chair Celebrates Senate Confirmation of National Cyber Director Nominee | 2023-12-12 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), Co-Chair of the Cyberspace Solarium Commission (CSC), today released the following statement regarding the Senate confirmation of the new National Cyber Director, Harry Coker. The National Cyber Director position has not had a Senate-confirmed leader since February 2023. The National Cyber Director plays a key role in leading the development of U.S. cybersecurity policy and strategy; the creation of the position was a key recommendation from CSC. Read the administration’s announcement HERE. “I am relieved that the Senate has confirmed Harry Coker as the permanent replacement for the National Cyber Director position; Coker’s long and distinguished career in government has included posts in the National Security Agency, Central Intelligence Agency and the U.S. Navy. After meeting with Coker at length, I firmly believe that his experience – and the expertise and skill-set it imbued him with – makes him highly qualified for the position. Looking forward, it is important to reiterate the necessity of strong, permanent leadership in the Office of the National Cyber Director to protect our country from an increasingly dangerous threat landscape. The NCD is effectively the ‘coach’ of the U. S. cybersecurity team, and I know that Harry will work diligently and collaboratively to protect our country,” said Senator King. “I would also like to emphasize my deepest appreciation and gratitude to Kemba Walden who recently left the post of Acting National Cyber Director. During her tenure, she did fantastic work guiding our nation’s cybersecurity policy, notably developing and rolling out the National Cyber Strategy Implementation Plan. I look forward to Harry Coker’s own success in the role and will continue to support him as he leads our country forward.” As Co-Chair of the Cyberspace Solarium Commission (CSC), Senator King is recognized as one of Congress’ leading experts on cyber defense and as a strong advocate for a forward-thinking cyber strategy that emphasizes lay… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/that-is-downright-dangerous-king-says-of-us-reliance-on-china-for-lithium | “That is Downright Dangerous,” King Says of U.S. Reliance on China for Lithium | 2023-12-12 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Angus King today continued expressing urgency for streamlining the permitting process, so that renewable energy projects can be built responsibly in support of America’s race against climate change. In a hearing of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources (ENR) Subcommittee on Public Lands, Forests and Mining, King questioned Dr. Steve Feldgus, the Deputy Assistant Secretary of Land and Minerals Management and Mr. Rich Haddock, about the changes needed in America’s bureaucratic, time-consuming permitting process to achieve the historic clean energy opportunities presented by the landmark Inflation Reduction Act. Lithium is one of the most commonly used critical minerals in the manufacturing of electric vehicles (EVs). Currently, it can take more than a decade to obtain a mining permit for this critical mineral in the United States. “I'm surprised that hasn't come up today. Isn't that a part of this discussion, to be sure, that because we can't afford 14 years to permit a lithium mine to support the EV industry, 85 percent [in Q4 2022] of the lithium [batteries] we're now using comes from China. That is downright dangerous,” said Senator King. “We wholly agree that permitting reform is an important aspect of what we need to do to be able to secure our supply chain,” agreed Haddock. “When a new mine is being permitted, is there any requirement for a cleanup fund to be guaranteed as part of the permitting process? Usually that's often the case in any kind of permitting of a major development,” questioned Senator King. “There is, Senator, we have bonding requirements. Dr. Feldgus has said that the bonding in Nevada, the bonding in the United States, is the best in the world. We also provide long term funds for long term,” responded Haddock. “So, the problem of abandoned minds and mines is really for mines that are in the past, not new minds that are going online in the future,” asked Senator King. “That's correct,” replied Haddock. “I would appreciate it if you could share with … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-joins-charge-to-curb-pollution-threat-posed-by-foam-containers | King Joins Charge to Curb Pollution Threat Posed by Foam Containers | 2023-12-11 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King has introduced bicameral legislation to phase out single-use plastic foam food service products, “loose fill” such as packing peanuts, and non-medical disposable coolers – materials known to cause adverse health effects and pollute waterways. The Farewell to Foam Act would prohibit the sale and distribution of these items beginning January 2026 while aiming to support the transition to alternatives. Expanded polystyrene (EPS), known more commonly as plastic foam, is one of the most harmful forms of single-use plastic. These materials, which also often contain other toxic additives such as flame retardants and colorants, are known to have negative impacts on human health, with links to central nervous system damage and increased risk of cancer. Additionally, they are difficult to recycle and prone to break up into tiny pieces – or microplastics – and often wash away into the environment, especially waterways. It is estimated that Americans use at least 5.6 billion pieces of plastic foam products each year. “As anyone who’s been on riverbanks or the coast can tell you, pollution in our waters is on the rise – threatening public health, economic security, and the future of our planet,” said Senator King. “The Farewell to Foam Act would phase out harmful foam food containers and single-use foam storage bins to protect our families and friends from ingesting these dangerous microplastics that have negative impacts on human health. We need bold action to tackle this global crisis, and this bill is a common-sense step we can take to reduce our dependence on this particularly harmful form of plastic.” The Farewell to Foam Act aims to build on Maine’s progress and reduce plastic foam pollution nationwide by requiring food service providers, manufacturers, distributors, and retailers to transition their stock of EPS products such as food ware, coolers, and loose packing fill to alternative materials by January 1, 2026. The bill also authorizes the U.S. Environmental Protection… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/in-a-new-letter-sent-today-maine-congressional-delegation-continues-to-press-for-independent-army-inspector-general-investigation-of-events-leading-up-to-the-lewiston-shooting | In a new letter sent today, Maine Congressional Delegation Continues to Press for Independent Army Inspector General Investigation of Events Leading up to the Lewiston Shooting | 2023-12-08 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King and U.S. Representatives Chellie Pingree and Jared Golden sent a follow-up letter to the Inspector General of the U.S. Department of the Army, Lieutenant General Donna W. Martin, to further press for a comprehensive review of the facts leading up to the October 25 mass shooting at Just-In-Time Recreation and Schemengees Bar & Grille in Lewiston. “We believe it is imperative that you, as the Inspector General of the Army, conduct an investigation separate from the ongoing administrative review conducted pursuant to the Army’s Suicide Prevention Program regulations. This tragedy warrants a much broader, independent inquiry,” the Delegation wrote in the letter. “We must work to fully understand what happened—and what could have been done differently that might have prevented the Lewiston shooting—on the local, state, and federal levels. We must also give the American people confidence that the investigation is comprehensive and unbiased.” Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III, Secretary of the Army Christine E. Wormuth, and Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Defense Robert P. Storch were copied on the letter. On November 2, Senators Collins and King sent an initial letter requesting an Inspector General investigation into the facts and events leading up to the shooting. The full text of the letter is as follows: Lieutenant General Donna W. Martin Inspector General U.S. Department of the Army 1700 Army Pentagon, 3E588 Washington, D.C. 20310 Dear General Martin: We write regarding our request for your Office to conduct a comprehensive review of the facts and events leading up to the October 25, 2023, mass shooting in Lewiston, Maine. On November 15, 2023, Under Secretary of the Army Gabe Camarillo sent a letter suggesting that the U.S. Army Reserve’s “administrative investigation into the actions and events that preceded SFC Card’s death” is sufficient to satisfy our request. Our staffs subsequently contacted you and reaffirmed with t… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-king-introduce-legislation-to-protect-rural-seniors-access-to-care-halt-damaging-medicare-staffing-rule | Senators Collins, King Introduce Legislation to Protect Rural Seniors’ Access to Care, Halt Damaging Medicare Staffing Rule | 2023-12-08 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | Washington, D.C. — This week, U.S. Senators Susan Collins (R-ME), a senior member of the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions, and Angus King (I-ME) joined a bipartisan group in introducing the Protecting Rural Seniors’ Access to Care Act. This legislation would prohibit the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary from finalizing a proposed nursing home staffing rule that would hurt facilities across Maine and could force many to close. Additionally, the bill would establish an advisory panel on nursing home staffing that includes voices from both urban and rural communities nationwide. The panel would submit a report to Congress that analyzes workforce shortages and makes practical recommendations to strengthen the workforce. On September 1, 2023, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) proposed a rule that would mandate new minimum staffing standards for long-term care (LTC) facilities. According to CMS, 75 percent of nursing homes would have to increase staffing to comply with the proposed standards – a threshold especially hard to reach in rural areas, which already face historic staffing shortages. “Allowing the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services’ staffing mandate to be forced upon all nursing homes would be a disaster for older Americans who reside in rural areas, as many do in the State of Maine,” said Senator Collins. “This bipartisan legislation would allow for the chance to negotiate fair rules for all long-term care facilities, helping to avoid wide-scale displacement of residents and closures of rural nursing homes that are facing severe staffing shortages.” “Rural Maine seniors already face many challenges accessing affordable, quality healthcare because of both their distance to medical facilities and the availability of healthcare workers in rural areas,” Senator King said. “The Protecting Rural Seniors’ Access to Care Act would avoid a one-size-fits-all approach that the government is seeking and protect Maine’s nursing homes. As we… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-collins-pingree-request-additional-flexibility-for-funding-to-support-migrants | King, Collins, Pingree Request Additional Flexibility for Funding to Support Migrants | 2023-12-07 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C.—U.S. Senators Angus King and Susan Collins, and U.S. Representative Chellie Pingree, are requesting that if Congress provides additional funding for the Shelter and Services Program (SSP), that the 45-day limitation on that aid be increased to 180 days. In a letter to Department of Homeland Security Secretary (DHS) Alejandro Mayorkas, the Maine Delegation is requesting an extension of the Shelter and Services Program (SSP) eligibility period – which typically lasts 45 days, but has no defined legal limit. The Delegation wrote, “We write to request that, should Congress provide additional funding for the Shelter and Services Program (SSP), you remove the 45-day limitation on aid from future SSP Notices of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) published by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and increase the limitation to 180 days. Restricting services to those who have been released by DHS in the past 45 days will limit the eligibility of municipalities and groups in Maine and other states located further from the southern border to apply for SSP funding, and end the critical support from the Emergency Food and Shelter Program Humanitarian (EFSP-H) they have counted on for years.” “The SSP NOFOs’ 45-day limitation is inappropriate for migrant destination locations like Maine. Maine immigrant services groups struggle with the 45-day limitation because migrants arriving in the state have typically been released from DHS custody many days prior, reducing the period in which these individuals and families may receive support. This reality makes it impossible for many Maine programs to access SSP funding that they have depended on under the EFSP-H program to support and assist migrants,” they continued. The Delegation concluded, “We understand that DHS can revise NOFOs through administrative action that does not require further legislation. The 45-day requirement does not appear in the Department of Homeland Security Appropriations Act, 2023 (Div. F, Title II of P.L. 117-328) that created the SSP. DHS cr… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-introduces-resolution-to-recognize-2024-as-the-national-year-of-democracy | King Introduces Resolution to Recognize 2024 as the National Year of Democracy | 2023-12-06 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. — After an increase in threats to democracy, U.S. Senator Angus King has joined his colleagues to cosponsor a resolution honoring 2024 as the National Year of Democracy. Democracy is under attack across the world. According to a report published in 2022, 61 countries have seen a “significant” increase in threats to the electoral process, civil and political rights, and the strength of government institutions since 2017. Furthermore, global levels of democracy have steadily declined since the mid-2000s. Democratic values are also under attack in the United States, with a growing movement to oppose the peaceful transition of power following an election, as well as the rising influence of misinformation. “The peaceful transfer of power we enjoy in America is a historic anomaly – and one we should be proud to defend and protect,” said Senator King. “This resolution encourages Americans to reflect on the merits of democracy and on the example that our system of government provides to the world. In the face of state-level threats that undercut the fundamental right to vote for millions of Americans, Congress must continue to recognize the importance of voting and encourage continued civics education so that all Americans can continue to reap the benefits of our unique experiment in self-government.” Senator King is an active, vocal supporter of democratic values and freedom. Earlier this fall, he introduced the Voter Choice Act to support the adoption of a ranked choice voting (RCV) model for federal elections – and also previously introduced the Freedom to Vote Act, which would set basic national standards for voting rights, end partisan gerrymandering and help eliminate the undue influence of secret money in our elections. He also released the draft Electoral Count Modernization Act to shape the conversation around establishing clear, consistent, and fair procedures for the counting and certification of electoral votes for the presidency. This past September, Senator King also introduced a resolut… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-presses-military-to-address-geographic-diversity-in-recruitment-efforts-plans-to-recruit-in-the-northeast | King Presses Military to Address “Geographic Diversity” in Recruitment Efforts, Plans to Recruit in the Northeast | 2023-12-06 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – In a hearing of the Senate Armed Services Subcommittee on Personnel, U.S. Senator King today pressed top military recruiting command officers on the status of “geographic diversity” recruitment efforts across the military. Specifically, he asked Major General Johnny K. David, United States Army; Rear Admiral Alexis T. Walker, United States Navy, Major General William J. Bowers, United States Marine Corps, and Brigadier General Christopher R. Amrhein, United States Air Force, about the specific steps the military could take to bolster recruitment in Maine and to market the valuable vocational training that comes with military service. As the military struggles to reach recruiting goals, King urged the officers to look into solutions for reaching potential recruits in Maine and other northeastern states. “I'd be interested in some data on geographic diversity. In other words, where are your recruits coming from? I'm concerned. I've seen data in the past that our all-volunteer Army and Navy and Marines and Coast Guard and Air Force are turning into a geographically limited body. In other words, more recruiting from the South and Southwest, or more people coming in rather than from the North and the Northeast,” Senator King said. “So, I'd be interested in that data. One of the problems — I’m from Maine — one of the problems is we've lost active duty military bases in the Northeast almost entirely. So, our young people don't ever see anybody in uniform. We had a Naval Air Station in Brunswick for 60 years, and kids grew up in Brunswick seeing the Navy on the street, and they were their coaches and their friends and their school teachers. That's something we have to sort of actively overcome.” Senator King also highlighted the critical vocational training and leadership that comes with military service – and urged the military to use this information in their recruiting and marketing campaigns. “There are few jobs in our society where a young person can have as much responsibility and access to t… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-king-announce-more-than-1-million-for-maine-agricultural-producers | Senators Collins, King Announce More Than $1 Million for Maine Agricultural Producers | 2023-12-06 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced that five farms in Maine will receive a total of $1,009,892 through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Value-Added Producer Grants (VAPG) program. “Maine is known throughout the country for our wild blueberries, potatoes, dairy, and many other wonderful agricultural products.,” said Senators Collins and King. “These investments will help diversify our state’s homegrown products, making them more accessible and appealing to consumers.” When we help create processing opportunities for Maine farms, we shorten the local supply chain,” said USDA Maine Rural Development Director Rhiannon Hampson. “This results in more choices for Maine consumers, as well as more opportunities and revenue for farmers. The Rural Development grants announced today offer businesses a chance to sustainably jumpstart growth, create jobs and enhance the ‘multiplier effect’ of the dollars being awarded.” The VAPG program helps agricultural producers enter value-added activities to generate new products, create and expand marketing opportunities, and increase producer income. The program is competitive, and USDA evaluates applications at the national level. This year, five Maine farms submitted winning proposals: Balfour Farm ($249,917) will use its working capital grant funds to expand the processing, marketing, and sales of its frozen fresh sausages and cured meats, creating one new job. The organic dairy farm and creamery is in Pittsfield. Fields Fields Blueberries ($10,000) secured planning grant funds to assess the feasibility of expanding the market for its blueberry crisp. The business will explore options for co-manufacturing and available distribution channels and will assess what would be necessary in terms of production scale. The farm is in Dresden. Herbal Revolution Farm & Apothecary ($250,000) will use its working capital grant funds to expand the production, marketing, and sales of herbal tinctures, tonics, teas, scrubs, and elixirs. The… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-introduces-bipartisan-bill-to-combat-cross-border-money-laundering-and-financial-crimes | King Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Combat Cross-Border Money Laundering and Financial Crimes | 2023-12-05 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Angus King (I-ME), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Bill Cassidy, M.D. (R-LA) have introduced legislation to combat cross-border money laundering. The Combating Cross-border Financial Crime Act of 2023 would establish a Cross-Border Financial Crime Center within the Department of Homeland Security to coordinate investigations and information-sharing related to financial crimes with a nexus to the U.S. border. While multiple U.S. agencies broadly address financial crimes, there is no agency whose mission is to focus solely on cross-border financial crimes, or to coordinate related investigations and information sharing. This lack of coordination contributes to the current 99 percent failure rate, when it comes to criminals laundering funds through the U.S. The legislation would create a central hub, the Cross-Border Financial Crime Center, to coordinate and analyze financial crime data and investigations across the federal government. “Our current response to cracking down on illicit cross-border trade is broken, and siloed departments are creating gaps for money launderers and other criminals to slip through,” said Senator King. “The Combating Cross-border Financial Crime Act of 2023 would establish a Cross-Border Financial Crime Center within the Department of Homeland Security that coordinates information sharing, so federal law enforcement can work seamlessly with state, local and international partners to fight crime, terrorism and the financial structures that enable them.” “International kleptocrats, criminals, and cartels are exploiting regulatory and enforcement gaps to move their loot across our borders and launder it through our financial system,” said Senator Whitehouse. “My bipartisan bill with Senator Cassidy will better coordinate our whole-of-government response to financial crimes and help ensure the kleptocrats and criminals hiding their money in America will be held to account.” “The U.S. needs a coordinated effort to combat counterfeit and illegal goods crossi… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/congressional-delegation-urges-va-to-ensure-reliable-wi-fi-service-at-maine-cbocs | Congressional Delegation Urges VA to Ensure Reliable Wi-Fi Service at Maine CBOCs | 2023-12-04 | 2023 | 2023-12 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C.—U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King, a member of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee, and U.S. Representatives Chellie Pingree and Jared Golden, are calling on the Department of Veterans Affairs’ (VA) to provide all Community-Based Outpatient Clinics (CBOCs) in Maine with reliable WiFi service. In a letter to VA Secretary Denis McDonough, the delegation shares that reliable, high-speed WiFi is critical for continued healthcare service for Maine’s veterans – and the comfort of the patients seeking care. The delegation wrote, “We are writing to inquire about the status of the Department of Veterans Affairs’ NEXTGEN initiative to ensure Wi-Fi at all Community-Based Outpatient Clinics (CBOCs) in Maine. As you may know, none of Maine’s eight CBOCs have public Wi-Fi. Calais and Lincoln have no employee Wi-Fi whatsoever; and Caribou, Portland, Bangor, and Lewiston have limited Wi-Fi for staff. It is clear that Wi-Fi services in all CBOCs will improve staff efficacy and patient experience, medication management, and the ability to utilize a network via laptop to support the PACT model of care, moving from room to room to the patient.” “Technology plays a critical role in providing healthcare in Maine, especially given the remoteness of many areas. The need for guest Wi-Fi impacts the veteran experience in VA Maine by limiting the ability to self-check in and do travel benefit forms via the “My HealtheVet” portal. Internal Wi-Fi would increase time spent with patients and external Wi-Fi would decrease wait times for veterans checking in via their cell phones. Furthermore, access to the internet can be a form of relief for patients and visitors who are in a facility for multiple appointments,” they continued. The letter concludes with the delegation asking for a specific implementation timeline and understanding of when WiFi will be installed at CBOCs in Maine. When will each Maine CBOC get Wi-Fi? What is the national timeline for NEXTGEN implementation? How does the implementation of NEXTGE… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:14:16Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-introduces-legislation-to-save-lives-protect-2nd-amendment-rights-for-law-abiding-americans | King Introduces Legislation to Save Lives, Protect 2nd Amendment Rights for Law-Abiding Americans | 2023-11-30 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – In the wake of mass shootings across the country, including at home in Lewiston, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) will be introducing legislation today with his colleague, Senator Martin Heinrich (D-NM), to curb mass killings, without hindering Americans who own a firearm for self-defense or the marksmen who head to the shooting range or the woods during hunting season. The Gas-Operated Semi-Automatic Firearms Exclusion (GOSAFE) Act, will protect communities from gun violence while safeguarding law-abiding Americans’ constitutional right to own a firearm for legitimate self-defense, hunting and sporting purposes. The bill is also cosponsored by Senators Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.) and Michael Bennet (D-Colo.). “For years, I have said that rather than using the appearance of these guns to restrict them, we should instead focus on how these weapons actually work and the features that make them especially dangerous,” said Senator King. “The Gas-Operated Semiautomatic Firearm Exclusion (GOSAFE) Act addresses the lethal capacity weapons like the one used in Lewiston and most of the deadliest mass shootings across the country. Nothing can bring back the lives of our family and friends, but responsible actions moving forward can reduce the likelihood of such a nightmare happening again in Maine or anywhere else.” “Our country is reeling from a gun violence crisis that has taken far too many lives in New Mexico and across this country. The American people deserve meaningful action from Congress. That’s why I’m introducing the GOSAFE Act,” said Senator Heinrich. “Like many New Mexicans, I am a gun owner. I firmly believe we must uphold the laws that protect safe and responsible gun ownership. This bill achieves that, while taking steps to get those firearms that are inherently dangerous and unusually lethal, designed for maximum harm, out of the hands of those who pose a threat to themselves or others. By giving law enforcement the tools and time needed to keep our communities safe, this pragmatic legislat… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-pingree-golden-announce-applications-are-open-to-fill-judicial-vacancies-in-maine | King, Pingree, Golden Announce Applications are Open to fill Judicial Vacancies in Maine | 2023-11-27 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Angus King and Representatives Chellie Pingree and Jared Golden announced they will convene an advisory committee to review and provide recommendations to President Biden on candidates to fill a vacancy on the United States District Court for the District of Maine and a vacancy on the United States Court of Appeals for the First Circuit: Senator Angus King and Representatives Chellie Pingree and Jared Golden announce applications are open for the upcoming vacancies for United States District Judge of the United States District Court for the District of Maine and United States Court of Appeals for the First Circuit. Senator King, Congresswoman Pingree and Congressman Golden have convened an advisory committee to review and provide recommendations to President Biden on candidates to serve as United States District Judge of the United States District Court for the District of Maine due to the upcoming retirement of Judge John Levy and the United States Court of Appeals for the First Circuit due to the upcoming retirement of Judge William Kayatta, Jr. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-colleagues-urge-armed-services-committee-chairs-to-fight-chinas-technology-threat-through-2024-defense-bill | King, Colleagues Urge Armed Services Committee Chairs to Fight China’s Technology Threat Through 2024 Defense Bill | 2023-11-21 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) is calling for congressional leaders to prevent global adversaries, like the People’s Republic of China (PRC), from acquiring sensitive U.S. technologies. In a letter to the chairmen and ranking members of both the Senate and House Armed Services Committees, King and his colleagues strongly encourage the leaders to include clear, bold language in the 2024 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) to address the national security threat posed by America’s sensitive technologies with dual-use applications being acquired by China through American businesses’ investments. “There is strong bipartisan consensus in both the U.S. Senate and U.S. House of Representatives that Congress must act to address the national security threat posed by these outbound investments,” the senators wrote. “We have known for some time that U.S. companies are sending capital, intellectual property, and innovation to the PRC, fueling its advance in dual-use critical technology areas. To safeguard our national security, the U.S. needs visibility into our vulnerabilities by requiring, at a minimum, notification of sensitive investments by U.S. firms in these countries.” “None of the tools currently at the government’s disposal, however, fully address the specific risk posed by the transfer of U.S. capital and know-how to our adversaries,” the senators added. “In order to protect our interests, we need to evaluate the full scope of our vulnerabilities and use the data and insight provided by outbound investment screening to implement tools that ensure sensitive technologies with dual-use applications are not further ceded to adversaries.” On the Senate side, the letter is signed by Senators Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), Jacky Rosen (D-Nev.), Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.), Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.), John Fetterman (D-Penn.), Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.), Tammy Baldwin (D-Wisc.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Bob Casey (D-Pe… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-urges-federal-government-to-use-maine-mass-timber-for-federal-construction-projects | King Urges Federal Government to Use Maine Mass Timber for Federal Construction Projects | 2023-11-17 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King, co-chair of the Senate Working Forest Caucus, is calling for the utilization of mass timber in federal building projects. In a letter to the Government Services Agency (GSA), King and a number of his colleagues questioned the agency about its process on integrating mass timber into the federal procurement process and using low-carbon building materials in the construction and renovation of federal buildings. The Senators also highlighted the opportunity mass timber products present in creating rural jobs, reducing wildfire risk, increasing forest resiliency and reducing the carbon footprint of federal buildings. Nationally, the forest products industry employs roughly 925,000 people directly and supports nearly 2 million jobs indirectly. In Maine, the industry supports nearly 14,000 jobs across the state. “By incorporating more mass timber products into federal buildings, the GSA has a unique and historic opportunity to help reduce the carbon footprint of federal buildings, all while reducing waste and construction costs and increasing seismic and fire resiliency,” wrote the Senators. “Since 2015, mass timber has seen unprecedented growth in its use across the United States — from just a handful of buildings 8 years ago to almost 2,000 today. Further, the mass timber industry offers Americans access to good paying forestry jobs,” they continued. The letter was also signed by Senators Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), John Fetterman (D-Pa.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.). As a member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, Senator King has been a national leader in efforts to support Maine’s forest products industry. This past April, alongside Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho) and the Working Forests Caucus, Senator King introduced a resolution to recognize the 151st Arbor Day. He also introduced the bipartisan Future Logging Careers Act to help train the next generation of Maine loggers. Most recently, Se… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-8-million-for-maine-preschools-serving-low-income-families | Collins, King Announce $8 Million for Maine Preschools Serving Low-Income Families | 2023-11-16 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced that the Maine Department of Health and Human Services received $8,000,000 through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Early Childhood Development’s Preschool Development Grant Birth through Five (PDG B-5) program. This funding will allow the State of Maine to expand access to high-quality preschool for children from low-income families. “Early childhood education is an investment in the future of our children,” Senators Collins and King said. “This funding will expand access to pre-K and help build an educational foundation for Maine children that will benefit them for the rest of their lives.” “The first five years of a child’s life lay a foundation for future development and learning. Federal funding to advance a coordinated system in Maine will help young children and families get the critical services need, including developmental screenings and high quality early care and education,” said Stephanie Eglinton, Maine Children’s Alliance. The PDG B-5 program supports state efforts to create or enhance preschool programs in high-need communities, while developing infrastructure to better deliver preschool services. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/following-election-day-king-bennet-introduce-bill-to-encourage-ranked-choice-voting | Following Election Day, King, Bennet Introduce Bill to Encourage Ranked Choice Voting | 2023-11-16 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. — Following the recent Election Day, U.S. Senators Angus King (I-Maine) and Michael Bennet (D-Colo.) have introduced the Voter Choice Act to support the adoption of a ranked choice voting (RCV) model for federal elections, also known as an “instant runoff.” The Voter Choice Act provides $40 million in federal grants to cover up to 50 percent of the cost for state and local governments that choose to adopt RCV. In most U.S. elections, a candidate can win without receiving a majority of votes cast, and are often motivated to attack their opponents rather than make a compelling case to the public. Instead of voting for a single candidate, RCV allows voters to rank candidates in order of preference. If no candidate earns a majority after counting first choices, the last-place candidate is eliminated and voters for the eliminated candidate then have their ballot count for their next choice. The process repeats until one candidate earns a majority. By rewarding candidates for appealing to a broad swath of voters, RCV can discourage extreme partisanship, motivate candidates to focus on substantive issues, and ensure that election winners better reflect the views of most voters. “In the face of threats that undercut the fundamental right to vote for millions of Americans, we must act to protect our democracy,” said King. “The Voter Choice Act would help communities advance the vast majority of voters’ priorities by instituting ranked choice voting, like the system that Maine already uses for its primary and federal elections. In such a polarized political climate, this bill would force candidates to appeal to a broader electorate rather than a small, outspoken faction. We must continue working towards improving our great democracy and that begins with restoring faith in our electoral system.” “As partisanship continues to harm our democracy and impede progress, we need to make government work for the American people,” said Bennet. “Ranked choice voting gives people more options at the ballot box, incr… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/maines-congressional-delegation-and-governor-mills-continue-push-to-prohibit-offshore-wind-development-in-maine-fishing-grounds | Maine’s Congressional Delegation and Governor Mills Continue Push to Prohibit Offshore Wind Development in Maine Fishing Grounds | 2023-11-16 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON — U.S. Senators Susan Collins (R-ME), Angus King (I-ME), Representatives Jared Golden (ME-02), Chellie Pingree (ME-01), and Governor Janet Mills sent a letter today to the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) urging them to completely exclude Lobster Management Area 1 (LMA 1) from the Wind Energy Area (WEA) for potential wind power development in the Gulf of Maine. The letter was sent following last month’s release of the draft WEA which excluded much of LMA 1, but identified two Secondary Areas within LMA 1 for further input and possible inclusion in the final WEA. “We appreciate that BOEM has listened to our requests, and those of Maine’s fishing community, and removed Lobster Management Area (LMA) 1 from the Draft,” wrote the lawmakers. “... Given these past communications with BOEM, we are concerned that the Draft WEA identifies Secondary Areas A and B– encompassing more than 200,000 acres in LMA 1 – as areas for offshore wind that BOEM may incorporate in a final WEA following additional input on their suitability and potential conditions for inclusion. Given the importance of these fishing grounds to Maine’s fishing industry, the significant feedback that your agency has already received, and the recently passed Maine law that disincentivizes development in LMA 1, it is clear these areas are inappropriate for inclusion in the final Wind Energy Area.” The Congressional Delegation and Governor believe that clean energy can offer economic and environmental benefits for Maine that must be pursued prudently and responsibly with a commitment to minimizing to the greatest extent possible the impact on fishermen, recreation, and other crucial ocean uses that are critical to Maine. LMA 1 is a critical and highly productive fishing ground for a variety of sea life, including lobster. In a recent report, the Bureau of Ocean Energy Development (BOEM) identified more than 9.8 million acres in the Gulf of Maine, including LMA 1 and areas closed seasonally or permanently to protect the North Atlantic right… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-join-bipartisan-legislation-to-support-maine-farmers-access-to-global-markets | Collins, King Join Bipartisan Legislation to Support Maine Farmers’ Access to Global Markets | 2023-11-15 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King have cosponsored legislation to help Maine’s wild blueberry and potato farmers boost exports of their crops. The Specialty Crops Reporting on Opportunities and Promotion Act (Specialty CROP Act), aims to address high tariffs, burdensome labeling requirements, and other trade barriers that restrict U.S. products from accessing foreign markets, threatening rural communities and agricultural producers who depend on customers overseas. “Maine is known throughout the country for its potatoes and wild blueberries,” said Senator Collins. “By increasing reporting requirements for agricultural trade, this bipartisan bill would provide U.S. farmers with greater assurance that they are competing in a fair global market, and that their high-quality products have every opportunity to continue to reach consumers worldwide.” “The agriculture community is at the heart of Maine’s identity and is essential to our state’s economy,” said Senator King. “The Specialty Crops Reporting on Opportunities and Promotion Act (Specialty CROP Act) is a great step forward to ensure that Maine farmers can compete on even terms with farmers from other countries – helping to save and revitalize our small businesses here at home. As the agricultural industry faces challenges resulting from changing global markets, we must level the playing field by providing needed resources and support to our American businesses.” The legislation would help farmers by making key improvements to the annual U.S. Specialty Crops Trade Issues Report, to more effectively identify and combat unreasonable trade barriers, including: Explicitly requiring participation and engagement from the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR); Highlighting specific trade barriers that limit the export competitiveness of specialty crops in specific markets, including tariff and non-tariff barriers; Including an assessment of whether each trade barrier is subject to a U.S. FTA or international agreement;… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-colleagues-urge-biden-to-push-for-chinese-crack-down-against-fentanyl-in-meeting-with-president-xi | King, Colleagues Urge Biden to Push for Chinese Crack Down Against Fentanyl in Meeting with President Xi | 2023-11-15 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King is joining his colleagues in sending a bipartisan letter to President Joe Biden urging him to tackle the fentanyl crisis during his meeting with President Xi Jinping of the People’s Republic of China (PRC). In their letter, the senators focus on the devastating impact of fentanyl in the United States and the PRC’s ineffective policies to control the fentanyl supply chain. The letter calls on President Biden to urge President Xi to do more to stop the flow of precursor chemicals that are sent from the PRC to Mexico. These chemicals are used to manufacture deadly drugs, which are then trafficked across our southern border. From 2020 to 2021, the number of primarily fentanyl-related deaths in the United States increased by 24.1 percent, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In Maine, 716 people died of drug overdoses in 2022. Nearly 80% of these deaths can be attributed to fentanyl. “It is evident that the PRC plays a significant role in the production of fentanyl making its way into our country; contributing to the alarming rates of addiction and fatal overdoses across the United States,” wrote the senators. The senators’ letter continued, “Beyond supplying the chemicals to produce the deadly drug, businesses in the PRC are also assisting Mexican transnational criminal organizations (TCOs) in laundering the money that comes from selling the illicit drugs in the United States.” “It is our understanding it is not only a priority of the United States to minimize the PRC’s involvement in the fentanyl supply chain, as even Mexico has urged President Xi to stop the flow of fentanyl,” the senators wrote. “If Mexican TCOs have a large portion of their supply chain effectively cut off by the PRC, it is likely we will see a drastic drop in illicit fentanyl being trafficked across our southern border and killing vulnerable Americans.” King joined Senators Mike Rounds (R-S.D.), Joe Manchin (D-W.Va.), Rick Scott (R-Fla.), Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), Jon Teste… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-cramer-introduce-legislation-to-protect-education-benefits-for-military-families | King, Cramer Introduce Legislation to Protect Education Benefits for Military Families | 2023-11-14 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Angus King (I-Maine) and Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.) have introduced a bill to protect the educational benefits of military dependents if the servicemember who transferred them those education benefits is dishonorably discharged from the military due to domestic or sexual assault against a family. The Safeguarding VA Dependent Education Benefits Act of 2023 would ensure that sons, daughters and other dependents would still have full access to benefits even if their household member is dishonorably discharged. Currently, if a servicemember is dishonorably discharged, their dependents automatically lose all transferred education benefits including tuition, room and board, and living stipends. Additionally, it has the potential to deter victims from reporting abuse or testifying against their abuser. “Education should never come at the expense of one’s safety or wellbeing – or make these family members suffer further for others’ violent crimes,” said Senator King. “The Safeguarding VA Dependent Education Benefits of 2023 protects dependents and helps victims of abuse feel empowered to speak up while ensuring they’re still able to access critical education benefits. The entire family serves when a military member signs up to serve and we owe it to them to provide the upmost support and protection.” “Families of servicemembers make many sacrifices in the service of supporting our country. These dependents rely on transferred GI educational benefits and stripping this benefit revictimizes them,” said Senator Cramer. “Our support for servicemembers extends to their families, and this is a small step to support victims of domestic violence.” "Victims of domestic abuse have already been physically and emotionally betrayed. They shouldn't also have to lose the education benefits they were counting on to make their lives better," said Besa Pinchotti, CEO of the National Military Family Association. "Senators King and Cramer introducing this bill gives hope to military spouses and children who … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-murkowski-release-statement-on-new-binding-supreme-court-code-of-conduct | King, Murkowski Release Statement on New, Binding Supreme Court Code of Conduct | 2023-11-13 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C.— Today, U.S. Senators Angus King (I-Maine) and Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) released the following statement after the Supreme Court announced the adoption of a binding code of conduct: “It’s welcome news that the Supreme Court has taken the steps to draft and adopt its own code of conduct. The Court’s authority rests entirely upon its credibility and integrity and the American people want to know that there is a guidebook for occupying a seat on our nation’s highest court. This code of conduct will help rebuild the credibility gap that we have started to see in our highest judicial institution. "While the Court’s code doesn’t go as far as we would have liked, it’s an important step in the right direction towards reestablishing public confidence in the judiciary.” Earlier this year, King and Murkowski introduced bipartisan legislation that would require the Supreme Court to create its own code of conduct, and appoint an official to review potential conflicts and public complaints. Justices of the Supreme Court are currently the only federal judges not explicitly bound by a code of conduct which provides guidance on performance of their official duties and engagement in outside activities; the Executive and Legislative branches of government currently abide under similar processes to maintain accountability and public trust in institutions. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/home-of-the-brave_king-releases-statement-in-observance-of-veterans-day | “Home of the Brave” – King Releases Statement in Observance of Veterans Day | 2023-11-11 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Angus King, a member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs and Armed Services Committees, released the following statement in observance of Veterans Day: “In 1918, members of the Allied Forces and Central Powers laid down their arms to mark the end of the Great War (World War I). While victory came at a tremendous cost, it was a historic triumph of freedom over the forces of tyranny. Originally known as Armistice Day, November 11 became the date each year for us as a country to remember and honor the over 9 million lives, and 116,000 American lives, that were lost in that terrible conflict. Following World War II, our annual remembrance was expanded to honor all who served and became known as Veterans Day. Those who returned home, those who are still missing, and those who made the ultimate sacrifice—our veterans and their families represent the very best of what this county has to offer and I am deeply thankful for their selfless service. “In Maine, over 10% of our citizens have served in the armed forces. This makes Maine one of the highest-ranking states in terms of veterans per capita, a fact that should instill tremendous pride and a sense of responsibility in every one of us. As we recognize our veterans today, together, we must ensure that their service continues to be honored into the future. Joining the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee this Congress has allowed me to better ensure the voices of Maine veterans are heard and that our veterans receive the proper support that they deserve. “After observing American troops defend Baltimore Harbor from the British Navy during the War of 1812, Francis Scott Key put pen to paper and created our national anthem. It is telling that he chose to write the last lines of the first stanza in the form of a question: “O say does that star-spangled banner yet wave O'er the land of the free and the home of the brave?” “He did so, I believe, to illustrate that the United States can only be the land of the free if it is also the home … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/for-veterans-day-senator-king-interviews-vietnam-war-nurse-turned-trailblazing-biologist | For Veterans Day, Senator King Interviews Vietnam War Nurse Turned Trailblazing Biologist | 2023-11-10 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – In honor of Veterans Day, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), a member of the Senate Veterans Affairs (SVAC) and Armed Services Committees (SASC), released his latest episode of “Answering the Call: Maine’s Veteran Voices.” In the 12th interview of the series, produced in partnership with the Library of Congress’ Veterans History Project, Senator King sat down with Beth Parks of Corea, Maine. Parks is a U.S. Army veteran who served as a nurse during the Vietnam War and later went on to become a wildlife biologist in Maine. During the interview, King and Parks discussed saving lives in Vietnam, overcoming gender barriers, and the importance of Veterans Day. “Beth embodies the selfless spirit that inspires people to serve our country,” said Senator King. “Throughout her life, she has continued to put others first. Not only did she save countless lives in Vietnam, but she has also spent time caring for patients in hospitals around the world. Even today, she spends her time taking care of those unable to take care of themselves. In this Veterans Day special of ‘Answering the Call: Maine’s Veteran Voices,’ I am proud to share the story of a Maine veteran whose dedicated service to our nation and the state of Maine makes it clear that no barrier is insurmountable.” Beth was born and raised in the Adirondack Mountains in upstate New York – knowing from a young age she wanted to be a nurse, like her mother. She left New York to study nursing in Washington, D.C., where she met her husband. During her time in D.C., Beth remembers Martin Luther King, Jr. and the March on Washington, waving to President and Mrs. Eisenhower marching with her husband in the parade for President Kennedy’s inauguration. When her mother fell sick with cancer, Beth moved up to Boston to take care of her and then later ended up working at the hospital in Glen Falls. While working as a nurse in the northeast, she remembers hearing ads on the radio asking for nurses to volunteer to serve in Vietnam. Inspired by the men and women w… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-cornyn-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-protect-va-customer-service-office | King, Cornyn Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Protect VA Customer Service Office | 2023-11-09 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Angus King (I-Maine) and John Cornyn (R-Texas) are introducing legislation to protect the customer service process and experience with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The Improving Veteran Experience Act of 2023 would establish into law the Veterans Experience Office (VEO), making it a permanent fixture to help meet the increased demand for services. Established in 2015, the VEO collects veterans’ feedback through surveys and uses that data to enhance the VA’s website and other resources used by veterans interacting with the VA, but is currently not a legally established branch of the VA. To protect it from being reconsidered by future administrations or Congressional sessions, the Improving Veteran Experience Act of 2023 would codify the VEO into law so it can continue to provide consistent care into the future. “Maine’s veterans have consistently answered their call of duty, and it is our responsibility to ensure that they are able to access their hard-earned benefits smoothly and efficiently,” said Senator King. “The Improving Veteran Experience Act of 2023 would ensure that our veterans receive the best possible customer service from the VA, whether it’s 20 weeks after transitioning to civilian life or 20 years. Our veterans dedicated their lives to guaranteeing our freedoms here at home and this bill would make sure we are being responsive to them long after they’ve retired the uniform.” “The brave men and women who have selflessly served our country deserve the highest-quality health care, services, and benefits,” said Senator Cornyn. “The Veteran’s Experience Office helps the VA deliver tailored, efficient customer service to our veterans, and I’m glad to support this legislation to make it permanent.” The VEO uses a human-centered-design (HCD) approach to serve veterans, and more accurately meet their needs, by asking open ended questions of customers and stakeholders to constantly integrate feedback into solutions. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-more-than-64000-additional-h-2b-visas-to-be-issued | Collins, King Announce More Than 64,000 Additional H-2B Visas to be Issued | 2023-11-08 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced that the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Department of Labor (DOL) are expected to make an additional 64,716 H-2B temporary nonagricultural worker visas available for Fiscal Year 2024 (FY 24), on top of the congressionally mandated 66,000 H-2B visas that are available each fiscal year. “These additional H-2B visas are a welcome relief for small businesses throughout Maine that continue to face a shortage of employees,” said Senators Collins and King. “These visas are a lifeline for our state’s economy, helping businesses meet the increasing demand for their products and services.” The FY 24 H-2B supplemental allocation is expected to include 20,000 visas for workers from Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Haiti, and Honduras. In addition to the 20,000 country-specific allocation, 44,716 supplemental visas would be available to returning workers who received an H-2B visa, or were otherwise granted H-2B status, during one of the last three fiscal years. Senators Collins and King have consistently pushed DHS and DOL to increase the availability of H-2B visas, and they have worked to ensure that the H-2B visa program is efficient and effective. Last year, they successfully urged the agencies to release the maximum number of H-2B visas – marking the first time that the Departments issued a single rule making available H-2B supplemental visas for several allocations throughout the entire fiscal year. In June 2023, Senators Collins and King sent a letter sent to DOL Acting Secretary Julie Su requesting an explanation for the extreme delays affecting the processing of labor certifications for H-2B visa applications. The DHS appropriations bill passed by the Senate Appropriations Committee on July 27, 2023, includes report language drafted by Senator Collins directing DHS, in consultation with DOL, to produce a report on “the economic impact of the H-2B visa program on a state-by-state and national level; the est… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-introduce-bill-to-monitor-mountain-snowpack-across-maine | Collins, King Introduce Bill to Monitor Mountain Snowpack Across Maine | 2023-11-08 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C.— U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King have introduced legislation to help monitor mountain snowpack across Maine. The Snow Survey and Water Supply Forecasting Act would establish a network of snow and water monitoring stations across Maine and the Northeast to better track mountain snow accumulation and precipitation rates – to help Maine’s communities and businesses adapt to changing dynamics. As climate change continues to disrupt weather patterns, expanded resources are needed to help bolster both impact research and response. In Maine, decreased snowfall, increased rainfall and rising temperatures due to climate change have already had substantial effects on the environment, as well as the recreation and forestry industries which are critical to the state’s economic success. "Access to more accurate weather data is essential for informed decision-making, especially with recent unpredictable shifts in weather patterns,” said Senator Collins. “This bipartisan bill would establish a network of snow and water monitoring stations in Maine and across the Northeast, which will serve as crucial infrastructure in our efforts to closely track the effects of climate change on precipitation, sustain our seasonal winter economy, and safeguard our environment.” “On a global scale, climate change is one of the greatest existential threats we are facing today,” said Senator King. “Here in Maine, we are already seeing the impact firsthand with increased temperatures, above average precipitation and less snowfall — impacting not only our environment, but also the recreation and forestry industries which are important economic drivers for our state. The Snow Survey Northeast Expansion Act will help expand the tools and resources needed to track the impacts of climate change to better inform the Maine industries that are heavily reliant on weather forecasting.” Senators Collins and King helped lead the passage the Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA) into law; the legislation includes the Restore Our Par… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-van-hollen-reed-murphy-and-colleagues-push-for-more-information-around-strategy-to-defeat-hamas-protect-civilians-in-gaza | King, Van Hollen, Reed, Murphy and Colleagues Push for More Information around Strategy to Defeat Hamas, Protect Civilians in Gaza | 2023-11-08 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Angus King (I-Maine) joined Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), and 21 of their colleagues in a letter to President Biden condemning the brutal terror attacks by Hamas, expressing support for immediate funding to replenish Israel’s defensive systems, and seeking information on two clear U.S. priorities: supporting an Israeli strategy that will effectively degrade and defeat the threat from Hamas and taking all possible measures to protect civilians in Gaza. “We have joined you in condemning the brutal terror attacks that Hamas conducted against Israel and agree with you that Israel has the right to defend itself and hold Hamas accountable. We applaud your actions to secure the release of two American citizens held hostage and support your continued efforts to free the remaining hostages. In the days and weeks since these attacks, you have rightly demonstrated America’s commitment to support Israel in this dark hour,” the Senators begin. They continue, “The attacks of October 7th brought back chilling memories of the United States’ own confrontation with terror twenty-two years ago. In light of our own experience, we want to underscore how critical it is that Israel: (1) learn from the mistakes the United States made in our fight against terrorism by focusing on realistic and achievable military goals; and (2) abide by the laws of war, including the protection of civilians. Doing so also offers Israel the very best chance of success against Hamas in the days and weeks ahead. These steps are also necessary to create the conditions for a lasting peace, including two states for two peoples.” “We believe the United States should immediately provide Israel with the funding it needs to replenish its defensive systems, including Iron Dome and other air defense capabilities. But to better understand the efficacy of U.S. funding that supports Israel’s operations inside Gaza, we respectfully ask your team to provide us with… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-join-bipartisan-group-in-seeking-extended-public-comment-period-for-farmers-to-review-visa-programs | Collins, King Join Bipartisan Group in Seeking Extended Public Comment Period for Farmers to Review Visa Programs | 2023-11-07 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King have joined together on a bipartisan letter seeking expanded comment periods for temporary access visa programs used by Maine’s farmers and ranchers. In letters to Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas and acting Labor Secretary Julie Su, the Senators request a 60-day public comment extension for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) proposed rulemaking, “Modernizing H-2 Program Requirements, Oversight, and Worker Protections, 88 FR 65040,” and the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) proposed rulemaking, “Improving Protections for Workers in Temporary Agricultural Employment in the United States, 88 FR 63750.” The Senators’ requests were prompted by farmers, ranchers, and other agricultural stakeholders in their states who are only now finishing harvest season and are increasingly concerned that DHS and DOL will finalize the rules before they can fully assess and comment on the new federal mandates on agricultural employers. They also noted that four other regulatory actions of interest to these stakeholders have comment periods ending during the comment period of the DOL and DHS proposed regulations. “The United States takes pride in producing the world’s safest, most abundant, and most affordable food supply. Our nation’s ability to do so is entirely contingent on the strength of our agricultural workforce. The H-2A program provides a critical labor pool without which many producers in our states would struggle or be entirely unable to operate,” the Senators wrote. “Any proposed regulatory changes to the H-2A program have potential ramifications for the entire American agricultural supply chain and food security. Therefore, it is of the utmost importance that our constituents be provided adequate time to thoroughly analyze this proposed rule and its effects on their operations. Moreover, this comment period is occurring while many producers in our states will be occupied with fall harvest and unable to dedicate time to developing mean… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-king-call-on-army-inspector-general-to-review-lewiston-shooting-events | Senators Collins, King Call on Army Inspector General to Review Lewiston Shooting Events | 2023-11-06 | 2023 | 2023-11 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King sent a letter to the Inspector General of the U.S. Department of the Army, Lieutenant General Donna W. Martin, calling for a comprehensive review of the events surrounding the Lewiston shooting on October 25, 2023. “As we continue to grieve the needless loss of life that day, we must work to fully understand what happened—and what could have been done differently that might have prevented this tragedy—on the local, state, and federal levels,” the Senators wrote. “Governor Janet Mills has announced the creation of an independent commission to evaluate ‘the facts of what happened on that tragic night, of the months that led up to it, and of the police response to it.’ We fully support that effort. It is also important that we understand what occurred, or failed to occur, at the federal level, including within the Department of the Army.” “As Congress exercises its oversight responsibilities and considers potential legislation, we request that your Office conduct a comprehensive review of the facts and events leading up to the Lewiston shooting,” the Senators continued. “Nothing we can do will bring back the lives lost in this tragedy, but we can work together to help prevent future shootings.” The letter includes the following questions: What concerns were raised by (or to) Army personnel regarding Mr. Card, including with regard to his mental health? When were those concerns raised, and what actions were taken in response? Were all existing Army regulations, policies, and procedures followed with regard to Mr. Card? Under what circumstances does the Army report its personnel to the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS)? Under what circumstances would the Army seek to invoke a state's crisis intervention laws to temporarily remove firearms from the possession of a soldier who is a danger to themselves or others? Were any attempts to invoke such laws made with regard to Mr. Card? Is there anything that Army personnel should (or c… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T01:01:09Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-funding-to-support-planning-initiatives-in-rural-communities | Collins, King Announce Funding to Support Planning Initiatives in Rural Communities | 2023-10-25 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced that GrowSmart Maine has been awarded $304,636 through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Rural Community Development Initiative (RCDI) grant program. This funding will support GrowSmart’s program training recipients in 10 Maine towns on land use planning processes that will address critical issues including farmland protection and farm viability, affordable housing, and climate change prevention and mitigation. GrowSmart supports communities in managing change and accessing resources by convening diverse stakeholders, including urban planners/developers, real estate/housing developers and financers, and environmental specialists working on conservation and land use. Ten communities have enrolled in the new Building Community Strength program: Calais, Danforth, Enfield, Houlton, Machias, Mexico, Presque Isle, Roque Bluffs, Skowhegan and Winn. "GrowSmart Maine creates new opportunities for rural communities, revitalizes downtown infrastructure, and promotes job creation," said Senators Collins and King. "This investment will support GrowSmart’s important work to provide rural communities with access to the strategic and organizational support needed to flourish now and in the years to come." RCDI grants are awarded to help non-profit housing and community development organizations, low-income rural communities, and federally recognized tribes support housing, community facilities, and community and economic development projects in rural areas. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-calls-for-expansion-of-food-allowance-for-active-duty-servicemembers-and-families | King Calls for Expansion of Food Allowance for Active Duty Servicemembers and Families | 2023-10-25 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), is joining 18 of his colleagues in calling for an expanded food allowance for servicemembers and their families to be included in the upcoming annual defense legislation. In a bipartisan, bicameral letter to the leadership of the Senate and House Armed Services Committees, the Senators urged them to expand servicemember eligibility for the Basic Needs Allowance (BNA) in the Fiscal Year 2024 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) According to a July 2022 study from the Office of the Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness, 24 percent of all active duty servicemembers experienced some level of food insecurity over the prior 12 months. As it is currently implemented, the BNA reaches fewer than 3,000 servicemembers. “Our servicemembers are our military’s greatest resource,” the Members wrote. “When they experience hunger, we put our national security at risk. We must give members of our military every possible tool to focus on the mission and be ready to defend our Nation when called to action. As you negotiate during conference and reconcile the differences between the House and Senate bills, we urge you to do right by our servicemembers and their families, who sacrifice considerably when they volunteer to serve.” The BNA program provides a monthly allowance to qualified eligible low-income active duty servicemembers with dependents. This allowance assists military families with accessing basic needs, most notably food insecurity. The expanded program will address the growing number of servicemembers who are food insecure and will support long-term efforts in solving military hunger. Representing one of the states with the highest rates of veterans per capita, Senator King has been a staunch advocate for America’s servicemembers and veterans. Earlier this year, Senator King cosponsored bipartisan legislation to address food insecurity challenges across the military. This year he also introduced a bipar… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-stresses-enormous-problem-of-va-workforce-shortages-in-veterans-committee-hearing | King Stresses “Enormous Problem” of VA Workforce Shortages in Veterans Committee Hearing | 2023-10-25 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – In a hearing of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee (SVAC), U.S. Senator Angus King expressed the urgent need for the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (VA) to find pragmatic, workable solutions in order to keep VA facilities properly staffed, fully open, and industry-competitive. He questioned Tracey Therit, the Chief Human Capital Officer within the VA, about the direct effect that bureaucratic hiring processes and lack of staff can have on veterans seeking care. “We're turning away and losing veterans because of lack of staff. It's an enormous problem. I understand it's a problem throughout the society. Every business that I talk to is short of staff. But I want to talk about the staffing problem in the VA, and that's where you might be able help us. There are two issues that I've identified. One is pay and the other is red tape. Let's talk about pay for a minute…but of the time to fill [job openings], the lowest are generally urban areas and the highest are rural areas. Now, this is a small sample, but I'd like you to do this analysis on a broader sample and see if I'm correct. But I believe that you'll find that rural areas are having a harder time,” began Senator King. “The time to fill in Maine is 251 days. In White River Junction, it’s 261 days. In Providence, it’s 127. I think that's where we get to the pay part. The difference in pay between different areas of the country, I think, is obsolete because people can work anywhere. You can now live in rural Maine and work remotely for the VA in Boston. Why would you go to work for the VA in Togus, Maine at a 15-percent or 20-percent pay cut if you can work remotely in Boston? Do you see what I mean? We're hurting the competitiveness of our rural VA facilities. So, I think we should really have a rethinking of the pay differential, which is based on times you didn't have remote working, people weren't as mobile. This is national competition for professionals. Ms. Therit, you've nodded a few times. What do you think?” “So, I think Mr. Perr… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/arctic-caucus-co-chairs-commend-implementation-plan-for-the-high-north-region | Arctic Caucus Co-Chairs Commend Implementation Plan for the High North Region | 2023-10-24 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C.— U.S. Senators Angus King (I-Maine) and Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), co-chairs of the Congressional Arctic Caucus, released the following statements after the Biden Administration released its detailed Implementation Plan for the U.S. National Strategy for the Arctic Region (NSAR). The NSAR Implementation Plan builds upon past efforts to increase security, environmental protection, sustainable economic development and international governance in the High North. “As an Arctic Nation with land, economic interests and national security stakes in the High North, the United States must develop policies for the region in a thoughtful, comprehensive way. The Administration’s approach takes a clear-eyed view of the need to pursue responsible opportunities across the Arctic; curb and limit carbon emissions to protect the region, and strengthen international relationships – a significant priority given Russia’s aggression and defiance of global norms. I take pride in my work as Co-Chair of the Senate Arctic Caucus, and will continue to work in a bipartisan way to promote America’s leadership and active role in the High North.” “I’ve led the effort to increase U.S. attention and investment in the Arctic, and am encouraged we are progressing from simply publishing policies to prioritizing implementation and real-world leadership,” said Senator Lisa Murkowski. “The United States must lead in the Arctic. The next step is for the Biden administration to reflect the Arctic as a priority in the President’s Budget by requesting funding and resources for 21st century infrastructure, icebreakers, and domain awareness. I will keep pressing this administration and all future administrations as we continue to invest in America’s Arctic.” As a member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee and as Co-Chair of the U.S. Senate Arctic Caucus, Senator King is an advocate for Maine and America’s interests in the North Atlantic and Arctic region. Along with Caucus co-chair Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), King intr… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/maine-delegation-announces-38-million-in-liheap-funding | Maine Delegation Announces $38 Million in LIHEAP Funding | 2023-10-24 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON — U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King and U.S. Representatives Chellie Pingree and Jared Golden announced that Maine has been awarded more than $38 million in funding for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance program (LIHEAP) in 2024. “Over 45,000 Maine households rely on LIHEAP to stay safe and warm during the winter,” said the Maine Delegation. “With home heating prices set to remain at near record levels in the coming months, it’s essential that this assistance continues to get to the families that need it most. Securing these resources has been a shared priority, and we remain committed to that mission so hard-working Maine families have one less thing to worry about as temperatures drop.” Alongside $36 million in regular block grant appropriations, over $600,000 of the FY 2024 funding will come from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law that the delegation championed and that Senator Collins negotiated with 9 of her colleagues. Last year, Senator Collins and Representative Golden successfully led efforts to secure a total of $6.1 billion for LIHEAP in FY 2023. Nationwide, an estimated 6 million households receive assistance with heating and cooling costs through LIHEAP, including over 45,000 Maine households. LIHEAP is administered by states and accessed through local Community Action Agencies. Eligibility for LIHEAP is based on income, family size, and the availability of resources. You can find more information on LIHEAP in Maine or apply for funding for the upcoming winter heating season HERE. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-murkowski-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-support-healthy-childhoods | King, Murkowski Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Support Healthy Childhoods | 2023-10-23 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, U.S. Senators Angus King (I-Maine) and Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) introduced legislation to promote healthy childhoods for children across the United States. The Preventing Adverse Childhood Experiences (PACE) Act would authorize grants to public health entities for the prevention of negative events during childhood like violence, abuse or neglect. The public health entities, like the Center for Disease Control (CDC), would use these grants for prevention activities or intervention. The CDC Director would also be required to conduct studies and research on ways to prevent negative childhood experiences. Existing research shows that certain negative events, circumstances, or maltreatment during childhood – known as adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) – are associated with negative health outcomes both in childhood and later in life. An increased understanding of the connection between ACEs and long-term health is now even more critical, as studies from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) show that social isolation, school closures, and other stressors unleashed by the coronavirus pandemic may be amplifying the need for additional mental health resources. “Over the last several years, unprecedented challenges have inflicted serious traumas on our children, while at the same time hampering their social ties and support networks. These traumas hurt right now – but their lingering effects may be even more severe,” said Senator King. “Studies have shown that Adverse Childhood Experiences – or ACEs – can contribute to long-term health challenges. We need more data to understand and mitigate these impacts, particularly in light of rising rates of mental health challenges for our young people. I’m proud to lead this bipartisan bill with Senator Murkowski, and urge Congress to take this step so we can find opportunities to help our children grow into healthy adults.” “Children should be able to face life with positivity. Sadly, too many kids in Alaska are forced to deal with difficult family … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-cosponsor-resolution-recognizing-national-early-childhood-literacy-awareness-day | Collins, King Cosponsor Resolution Recognizing National Early Childhood Literacy Awareness Day | 2023-10-20 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Senate unanimously passed a bipartisan resolution co-sponsored by U.S. Senators Susan Collins’ (R-ME) and Angus King (I-ME) to designate today, October 20, 2023, as National Early Childhood Literacy Awareness Day. The resolution, which highlights the importance of access to high-quality early childhood education programs, is also co-sponsored by Joe Manchin (D-WV) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV). "Fostering literacy in early childhood is crucial for preparing students in Maine and across the country for a lifetime of reading and learning,” said Senator Collins. “Our bipartisan resolution seeks to ensure that students from all social and economic backgrounds have access to programs that promote childhood literacy and language development.” “Early Childhood Literacy programs are instrumental in helping young children cultivate their reading skills while opening their minds to new worlds and ideas,” said Senator King. “By investing in programs like Head Start, we are investing in the success and well-being of our children and families, and fostering a brighter future for the next generation of Mainers. I remain dedicated to supporting these programs that have already strengthened communities, in Aroostook County and across Maine, and I am proud to be a co-lead on this resolution to continue providing resources for all Maine children.” “I am so grateful for the efforts of Senators Collins, King, Capito, and Manchin for their efforts to recognize October 20, 2023, as National Early Childhood Literacy Awareness Day. Highlighting the importance of literacy from the very start of a child's life has great benefit, in particular for our most vulnerable populations. Head Start has a long history of family partnership and community collaboration in efforts to build strong language and literacy foundations for our children. Supporting Families, Caregivers and Early Educators as they build literacy into their interactions with children has long lasting positive impacts. Thank you, Senators, for h… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/governor-mills-and-maines-congressional-delegation-react-to-boems-draft-wind-energy-area-proposal-for-gulf-of-maine | Governor Mills & Maine’s Congressional Delegation React to BOEM’s Draft Wind Energy Area Proposal for Gulf of Maine | 2023-10-20 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Governor Janet Mills and the Maine Congressional Delegation issued the following joint statement today in response to the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM)’s release of its draft Wind Energy Area (WEA) for the Gulf of Maine: “We look forward to reviewing the proposal in detail, but we are encouraged that the Bureau has initially listened to our concerns and those of the fishing community by excluding Lobster Management Area 1 in its draft. We are opposed to any inclusion of Lobster Management Area 1 in the final WEA and we strongly urge the Bureau to continue to engage with Maine’s fishing community, Tribal governments, and other stakeholders during the comment period. We believe that clean energy can offer economic and environmental benefits for Maine that must be pursued prudently and responsibly with a commitment to minimizing to the greatest extent possible the impact on fishermen, recreation, and other crucial ocean uses that are critical to Maine.” The announcement comes after a June letter in which Governor Mills and the Maine Congressional Delegation urged BOEM to remove Lobster Management Area 1 and other areas from any further consideration for commercial offshore wind leasing and to fully consider the views and concerns of Maine fishing communities while it continues to weigh leasing areas. A map of the draft WEA can be found on BOEM’s Gulf of Maine webpage. BOEM has opened a 30-day public review and comment period on the proposal. To comment on the draft WEA please go to regulations.gov and search for docket number BOEM-2023-0054. BOEM will accept comments through November 20. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/with-increased-use-of-online-streaming-platforms-king-joins-colleagues-in-urging-fcc-improve-access-to-local-media | With Increased Use of Online Streaming Platforms, King Joins Colleagues in Urging FCC Improve Access to Local Media | 2023-10-20 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King and 19 of his colleagues are pushing the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) to improve access to local media on streaming platforms, in a letter they sent to the Commission. Current law and Commission rules state that traditional cable and satellite networks must work directly with a local television station before broadcasting local news, sports, and other programming. However, linear streaming services over the internet are not required to negotiate directly with local television stations. Streaming services have a large and growing portion of the video media market as consumers cut-the-cord and make the switch from traditional television providers like cable and satellite TV to streaming service over the internet. In 2014, nearly 9 in 10 households subscribed to cable or satellite. This year, fewer than half of families subscribe. As consumers show their preference for the freedom that streaming services provide, it is critical for Congress to ensure continued access to local reporting on viewers’ communities. “Internet-based streaming services now have a sizable portion of the video programming distribution market – and this is only expected to grow as streaming companies actively urge consumers to switch from traditional television providers like cable and satellite TV to virtual offerings and other video streaming services. The shift from broadcast, cable, and satellite to streaming has profound impact on existing laws, regulations, and agreements that have been foundational in support of public safety and access to local news,” wrote the Senators. The Senators continued, “In light of these marketplace changes, we urge the Commission to examine the video marketplace and seriously consider how it can ensure the viability of local broadcast stations and promote localism.” In addition to Senator King, this letter is signed by U.S. Senators Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Raphael Warnock (D-Ga.), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Peter Welch (D-Vt.… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-and-cassidy-lead-letter-urging-labor-department-to-remove-barriers-holding-back-vets-from-job-opportunities | King and Cassidy Lead Letter Urging Labor Department to Remove Barriers Holding Back Vets from Job Opportunities | 2023-10-19 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C.— U.S. Senators Angus King (I-Maine) and Bill Cassidy (R-La.) are pushing the Department of Labor (DOL) to change eligibility criteria for veterans looking to enter the workforce. In a letter to Assistant Secretary James Rodriguez, they urged the DOL to categorize transitioning service members as eligible for career services programs funded by Jobs for Veterans State Grants (JVSG). The JSVG program provides federal funding to State Workforce Agencies, allowing them to hire staff to provide veterans and eligible persons facing barriers to employment with individualized career and training-related services. The programs also help employers fill open positions with job-seeking veterans. Unfortunately, transitioning servicemembers are currently ineligible to participate in JVSG programs because they aren’t yet formally considered “veterans.” The Senators wrote, “A transitioning servicemember who is not designated as lacking career readiness standards, and who proactively reaches out to local career center supported by a JVSG funded staff member to prepare for their transition, are ineligible to receive the full suite of services that are otherwise provided to veterans with significant barriers to employment. This gap in providing much needed employment services for transitioning servicemembers can and should be easily fixed by changing the eligibility criteria to include all transitioning servicemembers up to 6 months prior to their separation.” “Each year, approximately 200,000 servicemembers transition out of military service into civilian life,” they continued. “This period is a precarious time for servicemembers full of uncertainty for themselves and their families. Among the many stressors experienced by transitioning servicemembers is the challenge of finding a job.” “We therefore request that you change the eligibility criteria for the Jobs for Veterans State Grant, and finding other ways to improve the servicemember transition experience. Ensuring a fulfilling career is a critical step in … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-highlights-importance-of-nuclear-deterrence-to-better-protect-against-adversaries | King Highlights Importance of Nuclear Deterrence to Better Protect Against Adversaries | 2023-10-19 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – In a hearing of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), U.S. Senator Angus King, Chair of the Strategic Forces Subcommittee, questioned former U.S. Senator Jon Kyl — the Vice Chair, Congressional Commission on the Strategic Posture of the United States — about the increasing need to bolster the United States’ nuclear deterrence capacity while working to secure additional non-nuclear tactical options. Earlier this week, Senator King and Senator Fischer, the Ranking Member of the Strategic Forces Subcommittee released a statement commending the Commission on the Strategic Posture of the United States on the release of its final unclassified report. “It seems to me that the threat of the Russians using tactical weapons in Ukraine has sort of woken us up, that you talk about the President having options. Our deterrent fails if our only option is massive retaliation and the adversary doesn't believe we'll go to that option based upon the use of a tactical nuclear weapon,” Senator King said. “That brings us back to SLCM-N [Nuclear-Armed Sea-Launched Cruise Missiles] need further options on the tactical level, which we sort of abandoned for 50 years. Senator Kyle, isn't that something that we — I realize you discussed this with Senator Fisher but I hope you'll emphasize that point — we need more options for the President in a case of a limited use of nuclear weapons?” “That's absolutely right. Our report considers a lot of different elements. And without trying to go into a lot of detail, the tactical options are really important, because the way you get into this is probably not a bolt out of the blue, but rather an escalatory system that starts with conventional and then ends up with a small nuclear yield and then something bigger and perhaps a coercive attack,” replied Kyl. “If our only deterrent capacity is a massive retaliation, that's not credible, and therefore deterrence fails at that lower level. Is that correct,” asked Senator King. “In my personal opinion, that's correct. I'm not s… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-releases-statement-following-bidens-oval-office-speech-on-freedom-and-democracy | King Releases Statement Following Biden’s Oval Office Speech on Freedom and Democracy | 2023-10-19 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C.—U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), a member of the Senate Armed Services and Intelligence Committees, released the following statement following President Biden’s speech to the nation on the war between Hamas and Israel, and the global imperative to support democracy over tyranny and terrorism: “The causes of freedom, democracy, and self-defense are core American guiding beliefs. In fact, Thomas Jefferson, after writing the Declaration of Independence, swore eternal hostility against tyranny over the mind of man. Fighting tyranny, and deterring tyrannical aims, is a founding principle of this nation – and it’s nothing less than the current stakes we face. It’s time for Congress to act. Our security at home depends on a strong national defense and supporting the freedom of our democratic allies and partners around the globe. “Across the world, we are watching as terrorist groups massacre innocent civilians at a music festival, as tyrannical regimes target innocent civilians at their dinner tables, and as dictatorships threaten to invade democratic, sovereign nations. “Since the 2006 Palestinian elections in Gaza which Hamas won and their violent expulsion of Fatah the following year, Israel has been defending itself from a terrorist organization that prides itself on the destruction of Israel and the annihilation of the Jewish people. The massacre, and hostage taking, on October 7th further proved that no wall, no blockade, and no amount of military might on the border will change Hamas’ steadfast belief. But what October 7th did show violent actors is that Israelis and the free world can unite together—even in the darkest times—to fight for democracy, self-determination, and the safety of the global Jewish diaspora. “For over a year and a half, Ukraine has similarly, and bravely, defended its freedom and sovereignty from a bloody, unprovoked invasion by an autocratic dictator. Putin believed he would quickly defeat his neighbor, rebuild the Soviet Union, and divide the Free World, but on ever… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senate-unanimously-passes-resolution-co-sponsored-by-collins-king-in-support-of-israel | Senate Unanimously Passes Resolution Co-Sponsored by Collins, King in Support of Israel | 2023-10-19 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins, Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee and Subcommittee on Defense, and Angus King, a member of the Senate Armed Services and Intelligence Committees, joined nearly all of their Senate colleagues in passing a bipartisan resolution in support of Israel. Senators Collins and King are co-sponsors of the resolution, which passed the Senate by a vote of 97-0. “The Senate stands with Israel as it defends itself, including Israeli efforts to diminish the threat posed by Hamas; reaffirms Israel’s right to self-defense, and is committed to helping Israel safeguard its people from future aggression,” the resolution states. “The Senate reaffirms Israel’s right to self-defense, and is committed to helping Israel safeguard its people from future aggression; and calls on all countries to unequivocally condemn Hamas’ war on Israel, including Hamas’ intentional targeting of, and attacks against, civilians.” A copy of the resolution can be found here. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-ask-cms-to-withhold-burdensome-staffing-mandate-need-permanent-workforce-solutions-to-support-veterans | Senators Ask CMS to Withhold Burdensome Staffing Mandate, Need Permanent Workforce Solutions to Support Veterans | 2023-10-19 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senators Kevin Cramer (R-ND) and Angus King (I-Maine), members of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee (SVAC), are fighting to keep many VA facilities open nationwide, by asking the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to find workable solutions for staffing shortages at long-term care facilities across the country. VA and long-term care facilities serve retired veterans and future demand is expected to grow. In a letter to CMS Administrator Chiquita Brooks-Lasure, the senators ask CMS to withhold from establishing staffing mandates for long-term care facilities and instead work with Congress on flexible, commonsense solutions. Strict federal staffing proposals would be detrimental to many VA facilities across the country that would be unable to meet the minimum staffing requirements to remain open. The CMS rule being considered would establish minimum staffing requirements for long-term care facilities as part of the Biden-Harris Administration's Nursing Home Reform initiative. According to the latest polling, 80% of nursing facilities across the country would be unable to meet the minimum requirements to remain open if the rule is enacted. “We write today to express concern over the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services’ (CMS) proposed rule, entitled ‘Minimum Staffing Standards for Long-Term Care Facilities and Medicaid Institutional Payment Transparency Reporting’ (RIN: 0938-AV25), particularly as it relates to veterans’ access to long-term care. The Rand Corporation estimated 80 percent of the nation's 18 million military veterans will have some need for long-term services. Should this proposed rule move forward, it is imperative that the regulations placed on facilities do not inadvertently lessen aging veterans’ options for care. We recognize the importance of high-quality service, but as drafted and without revisions, this proposal may have unintended consequences that will close nursing homes,” the senators wrote. “Fundamentally, we must address the pipeline o… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-more-than-160000-for-rumford-police-department-mental-health-and-wellness | Collins, King Announce More Than $160,000 for Rumford Police Department Mental Health and Wellness | 2023-10-18 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Susan Collins, Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, and Angus King (I-ME) announced that Rumford Police Department has been awarded a total of $163,462 through the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) Office of Community Oriented Policing Services’ (COPS) Law Enforcement Mental Health and Wellness Act (LEMHWA) grant program to provide greater mental health support to law enforcement officers and their families. "Law enforcement officers willingly place themselves in harm's way to protect our communities. It is our responsibility to equip them and their families with the necessary resources to safeguard their well-being,” said Senators Collins and King. “This important funding will support mental health programs for the dedicated men and women who make up the Rumford Police Department, as well as their families.” Recent studies have found that law enforcement officers have a 54% increase in suicide risk, compared to civilians. This risk is magnified for departments with less than 50 full-time officers, a category which includes the vast majority of Maine’s police departments. LEMWHA implementation grants support state, local, tribal, or territorial law enforcement agencies seeking to implement new or enhance existing programs that offer training and services on officer emotional and mental health, peer mentoring, suicide prevention, stress reduction, and support services for officers and their families. In August of 2022, the Public Safety Officer Support Act, co-sponsored by Senator Collins, was signed into law. This bipartisan legislation acknowledged the reality that law enforcement officers, firefighters, and emergency responders face a heightened risk of developing post-traumatic stress disorders that may lead to trauma-induced suicides. The bill expanded the Public Safety Officers’ Benefits (PSOB) program to both create an avenue for officers to seek disability benefits for PTSD, and allowed families of officers who die by trauma-linked suicide to apply f… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-risch-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-bolster-rural-forestry-workforce | King, Risch Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Bolster Rural Forestry Workforce | 2023-10-18 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Angus King and Jim Risch (R-Idaho), co-chairs of the Senate Working Forests Caucus, today introduced bipartisan legislation to improve forest industry employment and participation through a grant program aimed at rural and underserved communities. The Jobs in the Woods Act would support developmental programs designed to better equip and train the forest products workforce for careers with the U.S. Forest Service and timber industries. Nationally, the forest products industry employs roughly 925,000 people directly and supports nearly 2 million jobs indirectly. In Maine, the industry supports nearly 14,000 jobs across the state. “Maine’s forestry industry has been foundational for our state economy for generations, and is critical to our continued economic success,” said Senator King. “As the industry continues to evolve, we must ensure our forestry workforce has the proper training and skills to help responsibly manage our forests while growing our local economies. The bipartisan Jobs in the Woods Act will make substantial investments to support new and innovative workforce programs – helping Maine people get good, quality jobs and securing the future of our state’s timber industry.” “Maintaining a robust and skilled forestry workforce is essential to Idaho’s forest and economic health,” said Senator Risch. “The Jobs in the Woods Act will empower our rural communities to build up the timber workforce with educational and training programs to ensure Idaho continues to effectively manage our forests and prevent catastrophic wildfires for years to come.” "The Professional Logging Contractors of the Northeast applauds Senator King for cosponsoring the Jobs in the Woods Act and fully supports this important legislation,” said Dana Doran, Executive Director of the Professional Logging Contractors Northeast. “Targeted workforce education and training programs are needed to provide pathways and open doors to careers in the logging and forest trucking industry. Good jobs are plentiful … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-urges-va-leaders-to-smooth-job-transitions-for-servicemembers-entering-the-workforce | King Urges VA Leaders to Smooth Job Transitions for Servicemembers Entering the Workforce | 2023-10-18 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – In a joint hearing of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) and the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee (SVAC), U.S. Senator Angus King, questioned Honorable James D. Rodriguez — the Assistant Secretary of Labor for Veterans’ Employment and Training at the Department of Labor — about how to ensure specialized military job skills are easily transferred to the civilian workforce. Senator King specifically requested the joint hearing earlier this year to focus on a “warm hand-off” for active duty military transitioning to veteran status. Earlier this year, Senator King also cosponsored bipartisan legislation to expand job opportunities for veterans by allowing them to utilize skills they learned in the military. “We talked about credentialing. Isn't one of the issues with credentialing state laws and to what extent are we able to work with states and state compacts, so if you learn to be a plumber or electrician in the military, you don't have to go out and spend a year going through a state process to get a license to be a plumber or electrician. Mr. Rodriguez, what's your view of that one,” asked Senator King. “I apologize there, Senator. One of the things that was passed in 2021, that there was an ability for states to have reciprocity agreements with regards to accepting those license and credentials,” answered Rodriguez. “And is that happening? That's my question,” said Senator King. That's one of the things we're working on with the states. We're trying to ensure that they understand one, that agreement exists, but also for the military spouses to be educated about that as well, as well as the Department of Defense's legal departments to ensure that they can provide support to those military spouses, to have conversations with the state departments,” responded Rodriguez. “I think that would be a place where some emphasis should be placed to work with the states, press the states because all the states talk about wanting to help veterans. This is one clear way they can do it,” conclu… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-fischer-welcome-key-report-on-us-strategic-posture | King, Fischer Welcome Key Report on U.S. Strategic Posture | 2023-10-17 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Angus King (I-Maine)and Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), the Chair and Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Strategic Forces, released the following statement after the Congressional Commission on the Strategic Posture of the United States released its final unclassified report: “As the top members of the Strategic Forces subcommittee, we understand the need for a nuclear force posture that can successfully deter adversaries in a worsening global threat environment. We appreciate the bipartisan Commission’s work to develop and unanimously endorse this report. We look forward to continuing conversations with the Commissioners on their findings and options to strengthen our national defense.” Background The Fiscal Year 2022 (FY 2022) National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) established the Congressional Commission on the Strategic Posture of the United States (Commission), and tasked it with examining the long-term strategic posture of the United States. The Commission’s report includes a comprehensive review of the current and projected threat environment; an assessment of our current nuclear weapons policies and strategic posture; and recommendations for the most appropriate strategic posture and nuclear weapons strategy. The bipartisan Commission is led by Madelyn Creedon, who most recently served as Principal Deputy Administrator of the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) from 2014 to 2017, and former U.S. Senator Jon Kyl of Arizona. The Senate Armed Services Committee will hold a hearing on the findings of the Commission’s report at 9:30 a.m. ET on Thursday, October 19th. Click here to read the report. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/as-winter-approaches-king-joins-bipartisan-letter-to-help-reduce-energy-costs | As Winter Approaches, King Joins Bipartisan Letter to Help Reduce Energy Costs | 2023-10-16 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King is urging the Biden administration to help reduce energy costs ahead of the winter season. In a bipartisan letter, King is calling on the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to take additional steps to reduce energy costs for Americans through the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). LIHEAP is a federally funded program that helps low-income households with their home energy bills by providing payment and energy crisis assistance. The senators wrote, “Amid increased energy prices resulting from Russia’s war in Ukraine and inflationary pressures, LIHEAP has become even more important for helping families pay their energy bills without foregoing other essentials.” “Unfortunately, supplemental funding is needed once again as we head into another winter heating season. Winter heating prices are expected to remain roughly as high as last year, and LIHEAP applications are up significantly. According to the National Energy Assistance Directors’ Association, states are reporting increases of up to 20% in the number of LIHEAP applications since last year. With limited funding, states will face tough choices about the amount of assistance they can provide and the number of people they can serve,” they continued. Nationwide, an estimated 6 million households receive assistance with heating and cooling costs through LIHEAP, including over 45,000 Maine households. LIHEAP is administered by states and accessed through local Community Action Agencies. Eligibility for LIHEAP is based on income, family size, and the availability of resources. Senator King has consistently worked to ensure Maine people have low, reliable energy and heating costs. Senator King has been one of the Senate’s most vocal advocates for the Low Income Heating Aid Program (LIHEAP). He helped to secure more than $6 billion for the LIHEAP program in the FY2023 appropriations packages. Previously, Senator King announced that M… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-king-announce-more-than-750000-to-respond-to-opioid-crisis | Senators Collins, King Announce More Than $750,000 to Respond to Opioid Crisis | 2023-10-13 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Susan Collins, Vice Chair of the Senate Appropriations Committee, and Angus King announced that the Maine Department of Public Safety has been awarded $760,000 through the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) Office of Community Oriented Policing Services’ (COPS) Anti-Heroin Task Force (AHTF) program to help combat the opioid crisis in Maine. This funding is one of only 13 AHTF awards made nationwide this year. “We must not relent in our efforts to address the ongoing opioid crisis, which affects far too many families in Maine,” said Senators Collins and King. “This important funding will help to ensure that Maine’s law enforcement officers have the resources they need to help keep our communities safe and effectively address this public health emergency.” AHTF provides three years of funding directly to state-level law enforcement agencies in areas with high per capita rates of primary treatment admissions for heroin, fentanyl, carfentanil, and other opioids. Specifically, this funding will support efforts to locate or investigate illicit activities, through statewide collaboration, related to the distribution of heroin, fentanyl, or carfentanil or the unlawful distribution of prescription opioids. Senator Collins successfully secured a nearly 10% increase in total funding for the COPS office to help combat the ongoing nationwide drug crisis through the Fiscal Year 2020 Commerce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies (CJS) funding bill. This included $35 million for the AHTF program. This year, Senator Collins announced that the government funding package—which Senator King also voted for—included a number of substance use disorder policies to respond to the ongoing opioid crisis. The package was signed into law in December of 2022 and included a nearly $300 million increase in funding to specifically combat the opioid epidemic, through improving treatment and prevention efforts; finding alternative pain medications; addressing workforce needs, especially in rural communi… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-join-legislation-to-end-institutional-child-abuse-in-residential-treatment-centers | Collins, King Join Legislation to End Institutional Child Abuse in Residential Treatment Centers | 2023-10-10 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King have cosponsored bipartisan legislation to reduce institutional child abuse in residential treatment centers. The Stop Institutional Child Abuse Act would provide greater oversight and data transparency for youth treatment programs, implement urgent recommendations to develop information-sharing systems among states, and promote best practices for identifying and preventing institutional child abuse. “Tragically, families across our country have reported that their children have experienced horrifying incidents of abuse when seeking treatment for substance, behavioral, and mental health challenges,” said Senator Collins. “This bipartisan legislation would address this urgent issue through the promotion of best practices and increased oversight of youth treatment programs to help to ensure the safety of all children while they seek the care they need.” “Children across the nation deserve a safe and supportive environment to learn and grow during their formative years — especially children already working through mental and behavioral health challenges,” said Senator King. “The bipartisan Stop Institutional Child Abuse Act would provide greater government oversight of residential treatment facilities that help treat our children dealing with these conditions. Thanks to my colleagues on both sides of the aisle for working to ensure that all Maine children, and children across the country, feel safe at live-in organizations that aim to help our children succeed.” “We know that children are abused in residential institutions every year. We know the abuse takes the form of restraints, isolation, and neglecting kids’ needs. We don’t know much else - there is gravely inadequate oversight. The Stop Institutional Child Abuse Act shines a light onto youth residential institutions and charts a course towards safe, effective treatment that is close to home. We applaud Senators Collins and King for their commitment to kids,” said Ben Jones, J.D., Director of Lega… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-announces-new-biddeford-regional-representative-legislative-assistant-and-legislative-correspondent | King Announces New Biddeford Regional Representative, Legislative Assistant and Legislative Correspondent | 2023-10-06 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | BRUNSWICK, ME – The Office of U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) today announced the hiring of three Maine people to support his efforts serving people across Maine. Sarah Stanley is joining Senator King’s team as the York Country Regional Representative based in Biddeford; Marielle Thete, who previously served as Senator King’s scheduler, is returning to serve as a Legislative Assistant overseeing immigration, education and judiciary policy; and Maria Kuhn, who also previously served in Senator King’s office as a 2020 intern, is returning as a Legislative Correspondent covering immigration, Indian Affairs and telecommunications. Both Marielle and Maria will be based in the Senator’s Washington, D.C. office. “I’m so proud of the work my team has done on behalf of the people of Maine over the years and am excited to build on that success by welcoming Sarah, Marielle and Maria to the team,” said Senator King. “Their passion for public service is crystal clear and I know they have the skills and dedication to help make Maine a better place to live, work and raise a family. I cannot wait to see all the great contributions they will make in the many months and years to come.” Sarah Stanley is an 11th generation Maine person who most recently worked as the New England Program Manager for the National Forest Foundation (NFF). At the NFF, she led on the ground projects in White Mountain and Green Mountain National Forests. Prior to her time with NFF, she served as the Executive Director of the Kennebunk Land Trust. Sarah is a Registered Maine Guide, is CPR and Wilderness First Aid Certified and holds a private pilot’s license with a seaplane rating. She earned her B.A. in Environmental Studies & Politics from Bates College and a M.S in Environmental Studies & Sustainability from Unity College. Marielle Thete, born in the Democratic Republic of Congo, proudly grew up in Portland. Prior to returning to Senator King’s office, she served as a Director of Government Relations at the ONE Campaign where she focused on U.S.-Af… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-honored-with-congressional-sea-services-award-for-his-leadership-on-behalf-of-the-navy-and-coastguard | King Honored with Congressional Sea Services Award for his leadership on Behalf of the Navy and Coastguard | 2023-10-05 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King was honored by the Navy League Capital Council as the 2023 recipient of its Congressional Sea Services Award in an event held on Capitol Hill. This award, presented annually to a member of Congress, recognizes outstanding leadership and contributions to the United States Sea Services. Senator King accepted it on behalf of the men and women of the sea services and shipbuilders at Bath Iron Works (BIW) and Portsmouth Naval Shipyard. Senator King was presented with a binnacle, a casing that holds a ship’s compass and lamp – which will reside in his Senate office for a year. The traveling ‘trophy’ is the actual binnacle from the Sioux Falls Victory ship that saw action, and received a battlestar, in the amphibious assault of Okinawa, Japan in 1945. The ship also served in the Korean and Vietnam Wars. “We all talk about ships and we talk about aircraft, but it’s the people – the wonderful people that we have serving us,” said Senator King. “The military and our first responders, when you think about it, have the only jobs where you sign your name you’re putting your life on the line. That’s not true for 95-percent of the jobs in our society. These are the young people who put their lives on the line when they sign up and it’s something that we have to constantly remember.” “This is a tremendous honor and I really am overwhelmed and delighted, but I have accepted it on behalf of the shipbuilders in Maine, the shipbuilders in Mississippi, the Coasties along the Maine coast and the Naval personnel all over the country. This isn’t my award, this is their award. Thank you,” concluded Senator King. “Senator King has been a long-standing and outspoken advocate for our nation’s safety and security. He has tirelessly fought for a strong national defense, with particular emphasis on maritime forces and seapower, championing funding and innovative policies to increase United States shipbuilding capacity and support for our nation’s critical workforce,” the citation from the Navy Lea… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/arctic-caucus-co-chairs-introduce-bill-to-strengthen-economic-relationship-with-iceland | Arctic Caucus Co-Chairs Introduce Bill to Strengthen Economic Relationship with Iceland | 2023-10-04 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C.—U.S. Senators Angus King (I-Maine) and Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska), co-chairs of the Senate Arctic Caucus, have introduced a bill to expand and improve economic ties with Iceland. Currently, Icelanders are not eligible for economic visas to visit and conduct business in the United States, one of the only Arctic nations whose residents face such a barrier. The Nordic Trader and Investor Parity Act would expand access to trade and investment visas for Icelanders, resulting in expanded economic opportunities for both nations. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) have also cosponsored the legislation. Iceland’s largest trade partner is the United States, accounting for approximately 20% of Iceland´s total trade in goods and services. Currently, Iceland is the only Nordic country whose nationals are not eligible for American treater trader and investor visas. “The United States is an Arctic Nation, and has many significant economic and national security interests in the High North—so we must solidify our ties with our allies and expand access to the American economy,” said Senator King. “The Nordic Trader and Investor Parity Act would increase access to trade and investment visas for Icelanders looking to do business in the United States while increasing our country’s economic footprint in the Arctic nation. As our adversaries continue to venture northward, hoping to control the economy of the Arctic region, there should be no doubt that free trade and open access is the name of the game in the High North.” “Iceland and Alaska have many shared interests,” said Senator Lisa Murkowski. “It is long past time that the people of Iceland are able to share in trade and investment opportunities in the United States. Opening up economic visas for Icelanders will allow our Arctic neighbors to bring the innovations they are making in energy capture, ocean sciences, and sustainable fisheries to Alaska and the Lower 48.” Treaty trader (E-1) and treaty investor (E-2) visas are nonimmigrant visa… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-more-than-76-million-for-disability-transition-services-in-maine | Collins, King Announce More Than $7.6 Million for Disability Transition Services in Maine | 2023-10-03 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Today, Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced that the Maine Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) will receive $7,632,256 over a five-year period through the U.S. Department of Education’s Disability Innovation Fund (DIF). The funding will support a project aimed at improving the successful transition to adulthood for children and youth with disabilities in Maine by enhancing access to coordinated transition services. Despite recent progress, many students with disabilities in Maine graduate from high school each year without ever researching potential future careers, gaining paid work experience, applying for Vocational Rehabilitation, or being aware of Independent Living services. “It is critical we work to ensure all Maine students have access to the tools and resources they need to make informed decisions at important crossroads in their development,” said Senators Collins and King. “This investment will transform the lives of children and youth with disabilities in Maine and contribute to building a more inclusive and prosperous future for our state. Every single individual deserves the opportunity to thrive and play a part in the success of their community.” Maine DVR's proposed project will leverage the resources of the Maine DVR, the Maine Department of Education, and Alpha One – Maine’s Center for Independent Living, in partnership with three Local Educational Agencies as pilot sites. Specifically, this project, the “Pathways to Partnerships Model Demonstration,” will focus on achieving five primary objectives: Launching a web-based sustainable hub for cross-agency transition information, training, and learning opportunities. Developing accessible on-demand curricula on various transition topics for children, parents, educators, and service providers. Enrolling participants in virtual services, including career exploration, peer mentoring, and independent living skill building. Increasing stakeholder knowledge of work incentives and benefits counseling for indiv… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-introduces-bipartisan-bill-to-improve-forest-health-support-rural-maine-economies | King Introduces Bipartisan Bill to Improve Forest Health, Support Rural Maine Economies | 2023-10-03 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King, alongside Senators Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) and Mike Crapo (R-Idaho), have introduced bipartisan legislation to improve forest health and support Maine’s rural economy. The Timber Innovation Act for Building Rural Communities Act would require the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to establish a method where it can accurately monitor and measure the carbon impacts of forest management. It would also set up several grant programs to support Maine wood products businesses. In 2018, Senator King was key in ensuring the Timber Innovation Act, bipartisan and bicameral legislation that aims to find new and innovative uses for wood as a building material, was included in that year’s Farm Bill. The forestry and forest products sector is one of Maine's strongest industries, producing 2.5 times the concentration that would be expected for the state’s size. “Maine’s forest products industry is inseparable from our state’s history, culture, and economic success,” said Senator Angus King. “The Timber Innovation Act for Building Rural Communities Act would build on this legacy and provide both funding and infrastructure to responsibly track the health of our forests, and all those Maine businesses reliant on their longevity. If anyone knows the value of planting seeds for a prosperous future, it’s Maine’s forest products industry that is out there working the forests for the continued success of our communities and our state economy. Thanks to my bipartisan partners in Congress, we have the ability to build on this legacy as a leader in American forestry.” “As the Senator was a key voice and co-sponsor in the previous Timber Innovation Act in 2018, we feel it is incredibly important to have his leadership and voice on the newest bill. The Wood Innovation Grant is included in the Act, and the expansion of that program in 2018 has had an incredibly positive impact on innovation in the forest products industry,” said Alex Ingraham of Pingree Associations. “Allowing for more ef… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-lee-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-create-one-national-made-in-usa-labeling-standard | King, Lee Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Create One National “Made in USA” Labeling Standard | 2023-10-02 | 2023 | 2023-10 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. –U.S. Senators Angus King (I-Maine) and Mike Lee (R-Utah) today introduced a bill that strengthens and simplifies American manufacturing by creating one national “Made in USA” labeling standard. The Reinforcing American-Made Products Act would ensure that the federal government maintains authority over setting country-of-origin labeling standards, preventing a variety of state-by-state logos and labels that would confuse consumers. Under current conditions, businesses that make their products in the United States face a patchwork of different state laws – making compliance costs burdensome in order to ensure products can be sold across the country with the designation. Varied state regulations also expose manufacturers to unnecessary litigation. The Reinforcing American-Made Products Act would fix that by creating one national standard. “When a consumer sees a ‘Made in the USA’ label, they know they’re purchasing a high-quality product and supporting American jobs,” said Senator King. “The Reinforcing American-Made Products Act would ensure that a ‘Made in the USA’ label is a simple, straightforward way to help consumers make informed decisions about the products they intend to buy. Thank you to Senator Lee for working with me to support American manufacturers and streamline this process for consumers who want to support American workers.” “Now more than ever, Americans care about the ‘Made in USA’ label; and they should because it shows consumers a product is of high quality and supports good jobs here in America,” said Senator Lee. “Unfortunately, some states have made it unnecessarily difficult for businesses to use the ‘Made in USA’ label and empowered trial lawyers to get rich through differing labeling standards. This bill solves that problem by making one national standard for the ‘Made in USA’ label.” “We are proud to employ more than 750 associates across our Norridgewock, Norway and Skowhegan, Maine factories who produce high-quality athletic footwear through New Balance’s long-stan… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:49:26Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/in-september-podcast-king-highlights-steps-to-help-maine-seniors-stand-strong | In September Podcast, King Highlights Steps to Help Maine Seniors ‘Stand Strong’ | 2023-09-30 | 2023 | 2023-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Office of U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) today released the September episode of his “Inside Maine” podcast, in which he shared his thinking with guests on prevention methods to keep older Maine people and Americans ‘Stand Strong’ throughout their golden years and avoid injuries from falls. During the podcast, he spoke with Florida Representative Congresswoman Lois Frankel and Peggy Haynes, a consultant for MaineHealth and previously served as its Senior Director of Healthy Aging. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), falls are the leading cause of injury for adults ages 65 years and older. In 2021, there were 325 deaths in Maine attributed to older adult falls and Maine ranked 8th highest in the nation per capita on the rate of deaths due to falls. Earlier this week, Senator King introduced legislation that would encourage proactive home modifications and increase access to preventive screenings for older Americans to keep them healthy and thriving – and avoid costly injuries; Representative Frankel plans to introduce House companions of this legislation in the near future. “We all know the saying that ‘an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,’ so preventative care is a win-win for patients, family support systems, Medicare beneficiaries, and taxpayers,” said Senator King, a founding member of the Congressional Task Force on Falls Prevention. “As we work to support our older Maine neighbors, we must ensure that they have all the necessary support to continue ‘Standing Strong’ throughout their golden years. With the help of reduced-cost tools like grab bars, and expanded access to telemedicine, older Maine people will be able to avoid preventable injuries. It’s the difference between spending a few hundred dollars on household items and spending thousands recovering from an avoidable injury. Thanks to my colleague, Representative Frankel, and Peggy Haynes, for working with me to support our community’s most vulnerable members.” Congresswoman Lois Frankel has spen… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:37:48Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-votes-to-avoid-government-shutdown-through-short-term-funding-agreement | King Votes To Avoid Government Shutdown Through Short-Term Funding Agreement | 2023-09-30 | 2023 | 2023-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King released the following statement after the Senate passed a bipartisan bill 88-9 to fund the government for 45 more days, averting an immediate shutdown: “Today’s vote from Congress will protect and sustain the current government services and operations that every American relies upon – from soldiers and seniors to small businesses and the most vulnerable among us — but it should not have come with so much bad faith and brinksmanship. The fact that this 45-day spending bill doesn’t contain the drastic and damaging cuts sought by fringe members is a welcome reality check. “Although I would have preferred that the provision providing funding for Ukraine’s fight against Putin’s aggression have remained in the bill, its removal by the House Republicans should not be seen as representing a meaningful shift in the overwhelming bipartisan support for Ukraine — both now and in the future.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:37:48Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-releases-statement-following-death-of-his-colleague-senator-dianne-feinstein | King Releases Statement Following Death of his Colleague, Senator Dianne Feinstein | 2023-09-29 | 2023 | 2023-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. — Following the passing of his colleague, U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), U.S. Senator Angus King released the following statement: “There is no one in this body that has been a stronger defender of Democracy and transparency in government than my colleague and friend, Senator Dianne Feinstein. Time and again, she served as an example to her constituents in California, and Americans across the country, that it is important to do what is right regardless of the politics of the moment. In 2014, as the Chair of the Senate Intelligence Committee, Senator Feinstein led the release of the report on the review of the CIA detention program following 9/11 which had been prepared by the Intelligence Committee. She stressed the importance of releasing the report publicly, in spite of the argument that it could be used to incite bad will toward our country, saying on the Senate floor that ‘history will judge us by our commitment to a just society governed by law and the willingness to face an ugly truth…’ Her words and legacy continue to ring true today. We all need to be a little more like my friend Dianne — even when it’s hard. For while it is easy to disagree with your opponents, it is far harder to disagree with your friends. “Just yesterday, Senator Feinstein took one of her last votes on the Senate floor while I was presiding — representing her people in her final hours. May the Senate remember her words, may the Country appreciate her voice and may we all continue in ‘our commitment to a just society.’ My thoughts are with her daughter, Katherine Feinstein; her son-in-law, Rick Mariano; and her granddaughter, Eileen Feinstein Mariano. May her memory be a blessing.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:37:48Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/maine-delegation-calls-on-postmaster-dejoy-to-urgently-address-unacceptable-maine-postal-deficiencies | Maine Delegation Calls on Postmaster DeJoy to Urgently Address ‘Unacceptable’ Maine Postal Deficiencies | 2023-09-29 | 2023 | 2023-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C.—U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King and U.S. Representatives Chellie Pingree and Jared Golden are calling on Postmaster Louis DeJoy to urgently address troubling deficiencies found among U.S. Postal Service (USPS) operations in Maine. The letter follows the release of a recent U.S. Postal Service (USPS) Office of Inspector General (OIG) report, requested by Senator Collins and Congresswoman Pingree last year, that found over 150,000 pieces of delayed mail across five mail delivery units in Southern Maine. “The USPS is a lifeline for Mainers, from delivering paychecks and medical supplies to connecting loved ones. We have heard frequently from constituents in recent months that deliveries have slowed or even stopped for days at a time, prompting concerns about missing essential mail,” the Delegation wrote. “Unfortunately, the OIG’s report confirmed major deficiencies at all five locations surveyed, impacting mail delivery, customer service, and property conditions. On one morning in March 2023, more than 150,000 pieces of delayed mail were found across the delivery units. Put simply, this is unacceptable.” In their letter, the Maine Delegation requests that Postmaster DeJoy address these deficiencies and provide an update on implementation of the OIG’s recommendations to improve service and conditions at the surveyed locations and implement previously recommended actions to retain staff. The letter is available here and copied below. +++ Dear Postmaster DeJoy, We write today concerning recent audits completed by the United States Postal Service (USPS) Office of Inspector General (OIG) at five delivery units in Southern Maine and request an update on efforts to address recommendations outlined in the OIG’s report. The USPS is a lifeline for Mainers, from delivering paychecks and medical supplies to connecting loved ones. We have heard frequently from constituents in recent months that deliveries have slowed or even stopped for days at a time, prompting concerns about missing essential… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:37:48Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/with-overdoses-rising-senators-king-and-capito-designate-september-as-national-recovery-month | With Overdoses Rising, Senators King and Capito Designate September as “National Recovery Month” | 2023-09-29 | 2023 | 2023-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Angus King (I-Maine) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-W. Va.), today applauded the unanimous passage of their bipartisan resolution designating September, 2022 as “National Recovery Month.” The Senators’ resolution comes as overdoes are rising across the nation. 2021 saw a 15 percent increase in overdose deaths nationwide, with communities across the country losing over 100,000 loved ones – including 600 in Maine, a record high for the state. The resolution specifically recognizes the many challenges contributing to growing substance use disorders and the need for more community resources and education to help address the crisis. In addition to Senators King and Capito, the resolution was cosponsored by Senators Joe Manchin (D-W. Va.) and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.). “To anyone suffering from substance use disorders, your communities and loved ones are here for you – we see you and we want to help,” said Senator King. “The last few years have not been easy, there have been periods of immense stress, difficult isolation, and unexpected hardships for all Americans. These conditions have been even more challenging for those battling substance use disorders. During this year’s National Recovery Month, we must recommit ourselves to supporting those struggling with this deadly public health issue, providing more resources to address our nation’s opioid epidemic, and becoming more compassionate as communities. Together, recovery is possible.” “Raising awareness of the available treatment and recovery measures is incredibly important as addiction continues to devastate communities and families in West Virginia and across the country. I am hopeful that with this resolution, which designates the month of September as ‘National Recovery Month,’ that more people will become educated about treatment options and supports for those in recovery. This is a critical component of the spectrum of solutions needed to save lives and fight back against the scourge of addiction, and I am proud to lead my collea… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:37:48Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-pingree-introduce-bill-to-expand-popular-grant-program-for-maine-organic-farmers | King, Pingree Introduce Bill to Expand Popular Grant Program for Maine Organic Farmers | 2023-09-28 | 2023 | 2023-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King and Representative Chellie Pingree have introduced legislation to ensure Maine organic farmers and businesses are well equipped to expand their businesses, reach new markets and further support Maine’s agricultural economy. The Organic Market Development Act would codify and increase support for an existing, and highly popular, grant program, which would help resolve supply chain gaps as demands for organic products continue to rise. In a 2020 study, Maine, per capita, ranked second in the country for the availability of organic food. For every 100,000 Maine people, there are 37 organic farms located across the state – with Maine vegetable farms producing the most organic produce in the nation. “As Maine’s organic farmers face increasing challenges from changing global markets, climate change, and more, we must continue to provide resources and support to help them evolve with the times,” said Senator King. “The Organic Market Development Act would codify an existing and highly in demand grant program to ensure the continuance of grant funding to Maine’s organic farmers so that they can respond to these challenges and pave the way for the future of the organic food industry. Thanks to Representative Pingree for supporting Maine farmers and the entire American agriculture industry.” “Organic agriculture sales reached over $60 billion in 2022 and continues to grow, building a more resilient and sustainable food system. As more farmers consider making the transition from conventional to organic farming, we must strengthen organic processing and storage and enhance market opportunities,” said Congresswoman Pingree, a longtime organic farmer and member of the House Agriculture Committee. “I’m proud to introduce the Organic Market Development Act alongside Congresswomen Kuster and Salinas and Senator Baldwin to expand and create new markets for organic products.” "Organic Market Development is critical for Maine's producers to be able to access funding and support for proc… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:37:48Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senator-king-introduces-legislation-to-help-older-americans-stand-strong-and-avoid-injuries-from-falls | Senator King Introduces Legislation to Help Older Americans ‘Stand Strong’ and Avoid Injuries from Falls | 2023-09-28 | 2023 | 2023-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. –With Maine losing hundreds of residents each year from household falls, Senator Angus King (I-Maine) today is announcing legislation which would help older Maine people “Stand Strong” and avoid injuries from falls. The Stand Strong legislative package would encourage proactive home modifications and increase access to preventative screenings for older Americans to keep them thriving while avoiding costly injuries. The package includes the reintroduction of the Preventative Home Visits Act and the WELL Seniors Act. These bills would expand Medicare benefits to cover home modifications, ensure the accessibility of telehealth services and include comprehensive screenings during Medicare Annual Wellness Visits. On a percentage basis, Maine leads the nation with the largest 65 and older population. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), falls are the leading cause of injury for adults ages 65 years and older. In 2021, there were 325 deaths in Maine attributed to older adult falls and Maine ranked 8th highest in the nation per capita on the rate of deaths due to falls. “We all know the saying that ‘an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure,’ so preventative care is a win-win for patients, family support systems, Medicare beneficiaries and taxpayers,” said Senator King. “The ‘Stand Strong’ legislative package will ensure older Maine people have access to preventative care like home modifications and telehealth accessibility — hopefully leading to less falls and injuries which are costly for the patient and taxpayers alike. I’m thankful to my colleague and co-founder of the Congressional Task Force on Falls Prevention, Representative Lois Frankel for her help in making sure older Americans across all communities can continue to thrive.” “We applaud Senator King’s leadership in advancing proven strategies to reduce falls among older adults. Strengthening Medicare annual wellness visits to address falls risk screenings, expanding access to home safety improvements, and conducting an … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:37:48Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/were-in-a-race-against-climate-change-king-stresses-in-committee-hearing-to-expedite-clean-energy-project-approval-process | “We’re In a Race” against Climate Change, King Stresses in Committee Hearing to Expedite Clean Energy Project Approval Process | 2023-09-28 | 2023 | 2023-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Angus King today continued expressing urgency for streamlining the permitting reform process, so that clean energy projects can be built responsibly in support of America’s race against climate change. In a hearing of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources (ENR) Committee, King questioned Mark Compton, the Executive Director of the American Exploration & Mining Association, about the important role permitting reform plays in a clean energy future and how to best streamline the permitting process to achieve this goal. King began his remarks by laying out the global impact of climate change. “I want to just put this hearing in a little bit of perspective. We're not talking about rolling back mining regulations or shortening statute of limitations in order to have somebody make more money. We're trying to beat climate change, and we're in a race, and it's a race in a matter of months and years. I just heard on the radio this morning that glaciers in Switzerland have declined 10% in the last two years. That's astounding if you think about that, these are glaciers that have been there for thousands of years. So, this is an urgent environmental priority. And it strikes me that one of the problems is that we're treating this as sort of environmental growth or environmental protection,” began Senator King. He continued by highlighting the connection between green energy and permitting reform. “Green energy is over here, and permitting reform is over here. And they're not [merely] related – they're intimately related. For example, one of the things we haven't talked about today is grid access. We have environmental projects, wind and solar projects that can't get on the grid because of the inadequacy of the grid. Well that means there's going to have to be transmission. I was at a meeting last week on transmission. There are three major transmission projects in the west, the shortest of which has been at it 21 years from the time of the inception of the project to the time it's going t… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:37:48Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-introduces-bipartisan-legislation-to-strengthen-and-protect-maine-forests | King Introduces Bipartisan Legislation to Strengthen and Protect Maine Forests | 2023-09-27 | 2023 | 2023-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), a member of the Senate Working Forests Caucus, has introduced legislation to protect and restore Maine’s forests, aiming to bolster both the economic success and environmental health of the state. The bipartisan bill, America’s Revegetation and Carbon Sequestration (ARCs) Act of 2023, would work to restore ecosystems, boost carbon sequestration through tree planting, improve fire risk reduction and expand forest products and wood innovation. The forestry and forest products sector is one of Maine's strongest industries, producing 2.5 times the concentration that would be expected for the state’s size. “The health of America’s forests has long been essential to the long-term economic and environmental health of our nation,” said Senator King. “As one of the most forested states in the country, Maine understands that working forests support jobs and communities, help to prevent forest fires, and mitigate the effect of climate change. In the face of shifting market demands and increasing risks of forest fires, we need to encourage innovative solutions that support the long-term health of our forests and our timber industry. This legislation is the approach we need at the moment – a commonsense, bipartisan bill that protects our forests today and lays the foundation plants the seeds of future success by incentivizing forward-thinking technologies like cross-laminated timber.” “While we were fortunate to have avoided impacts from widespread wildfires, as other states have seen in recent years, the Maine Forest Products Council appreciates Senator King’s efforts to protect this important resource for this and future generations,” said Patrick Strauch, Executive Director of the Maine Forest Products Council. “Maine’s forests are working, providing more than $8 billion in economic benefits to our state annually. America’s Revegetation and Carbon Sequestration Act would help protect our valuable forest resources while expanding the use of innovative forest products.”… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:37:48Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-pingree-golden-call-on-va-secretary-to-provide-funding-for-safe-firearm-storage | King, Pingree, Golden Call on VA Secretary to Provide Funding for Safe Firearm Storage | 2023-09-27 | 2023 | 2023-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. — During Suicide Prevention Month, U.S. Senator Angus King, a member of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee (SVAC), and Representatives Chellie Pingree and Jared Golden, are urging the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to provide more resources and better protect veterans struggling with mental health conditions. In a letter to VA Secretary Denis McDonough, the Maine Delegation is requesting the VA set aside funding for Regional VA Offices to provide veterans gun safes and lockboxes to safely store firearms. Maine’s veteran population suffers from one of the highest rates of suicide in the country. As part of the Governor’s Challenge, the VA, the Maine Bureau of Veterans Service and partner organizations have attempted to distribute gun locks and safes upon request to help decrease suicides and self-harm. Studies have shown these distribution efforts can help save lives, and, in turn, the demand for safe firearm storage has been high. The Maine Bureau of Veterans Services received over 2,500 requests for gun locks over the past three years. Unfortunately, due to limited funding, fewer than ten Maine veterans received gun lockboxes or safes. “On average, seventeen U.S. veterans die by suicide every day. A rate that is 57% greater than that of their civilian counterparts. In the state of Maine, roughly 75% of these deaths of despair are self-inflicted using a firearm,” wrote Senator King and Representatives Pingree and Golden. “During your recent visit to Maine, we discussed how essential safe gun storage can be to a veteran in crisis. In addition, you learned about some of the current work being done by the VA in Maine to provide veterans with gun safes, lockboxes, and locks as part of the Governor’s Challenge. Gun safes were particularly sought after by veterans.” They continued, “That is why the Veterans Benefits Administration should set aside funding for Regional Offices to buy and give away gun safes and gun lockboxes to provide safe storage options for veterans. A number of studies h… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:37:48Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/weve-been-a-free-lunch-for-china-senator-king-observes-while-emphasizing-need-for-a-strong-deterrence-strategy | “We’ve been a free lunch for China,” Senator King Observes While Emphasizing Need for a Strong Deterrence Strategy | 2023-09-27 | 2023 | 2023-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. –U.S. Senator Angus King today spoke to top China experts about American defense policy and the need to deter the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) from influencing American companies, elections, and interests. In an open hearing of the Senate Intelligence Committee (SSCI), King asked Dr. Glenn Tiffert – a distinguished research fellow at the Hoover Institution – about the importance of a strong deterrence strategy to ensure the United States can defend itself from multiple forms of Chinese aggression. In a conversation with Dr. Tiffert, Senator King asked about the importance of deterrence against Chinese aggression. We've spent practically all this hearing talking about the problem, and I'm interested in some of the solutions. I believe that one of the great failures of American policy going back at least three, maybe four administrations is the lack of deterrence,” began Senator King. “We have been a free lunch for China in terms of cyber: the OPM hack, the, the egregious stealing of intellectual property, nothing ever happens as a result. We talk about, Presidents talk about, we will respond in some way at some time of our choosing, never happens. Dr. Tiffert, don't you think we need to develop a stronger deterrent, declaratory policy that if you interfere in this country in illegal and malevolent ways you're going to pay a price?” “I would agree with that. Absolutely. And developing tools of economic statecraft, I think is something we need to devote a significant attention to, because obviously, we want tools that fall short of war with regard to deterrence,” responded Dr. Tiffert. “So yes, I mean, for too long, we've indulged asymmetry throughout our relationship with China. Everything from journalists visas to students to the way businesses operate, who can do business in China. There's a fundamental mismatch between a closed society, a one-party dictatorship like China, and an open multiparty democracy, like the United States. This is something that I think a lot of countries are waking u… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:37:48Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-and-colleagues-seek-to-protect-affordable-equitable-internet-access-for-all-maine-people | King and Colleagues Seek to Protect Affordable, Equitable Internet Access for all Maine People | 2023-09-26 | 2023 | 2023-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. –U.S. Senator Angus King and several of his Senate colleagues are calling on the FCC to protect affordable and equitable Internet access for all Maine people. In a letter to Chairwoman Jessica Rosenworcel of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), the Senators are urging the FCC to expeditiously reclassify broadband as a telecommunications service under Title II of the Communications Act and restore net neutrality protections. By doing so, this would allow the FCC to better protect consumers from harmful practices online, promote affordable access to the internet, enhance public safety, increase marketplace competition, and take other important steps to benefit our nation’s digital future. “Only with Title II classification can the FCC prohibit unreasonable and unjust practices of broadband providers, effectively protect network resiliency and national security, ensure service quality, expand internet access, and combat anti-competitive practices. The FCC is the agency with expertise in broadband policy, and reclassifying broadband as a Title II service is a requisite step in the FCC’s efforts to serve the American people and conduct proper oversight of broadband internet,” wrote the Senators. The Senators continue, “You have unequivocally condemned the FCC’s past actions to roll back net neutrality policies and relinquish FCC authority over broadband. Now that the FCC has a full complement of commissioners, we urge you to act to protect the free and open internet for all Americans. We commend you for your leadership and appreciate your attention to this important topic.” As Co-Chair of the bipartisan Senate Broadband Caucus, Senator King has been a strong advocate for expanding affordable, equitable internet access as a way to increase economic opportunity across America. Last year, he cosponsored the Net Neutrality and Broadband Justice Act to reinstate net neutrality protections and stop discriminatory practices like blocking, speed throttling, and paid prioritization. He was a key neg… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:37:48Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/maine-delegation-announces-more-than-4-million-for-maine-gear-up-program | Maine Delegation Announces More than $4 Million for Maine GEAR UP Program | 2023-09-26 | 2023 | 2023-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. –U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King, and Representatives Chellie Pingree and Jared Golden, have announced the U.S. Department of Education has awarded the University of Maine $4,058,656 for the Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs (GEAR UP) Maine RISE program. GEAR UP Maine, run by UMaine Farmington and the non-profit Syntiro, has helped prepare Maine students for postsecondary education since 1998, including more than 29,000 students since 2007. “For decades, GEAR UP has helped to provide a solid foundation for students across Maine who at times might have felt that opportunities for a postsecondary education were financially out of reach,” the Maine delegation said. “By equipping our young people with the resources and guidance needed to build a brighter future we are, in turn, making investments in the future of Maine.” “We are incredibly pleased to have GEAR UP funded in Maine again,” said Debbie Gilmer, GEAR UP Maine Project Director. “This multi-million dollar investment in youth from Maine's most rural and economically disadvantaged communities, including a GEAR UP scholarship program, will help address the inequities facing rural students, their families and their communities.” "The University of Maine at Farmington has a long history of supporting the success of students from rural communities, the first in their families to pursue postsecondary education and other underserved students. Over the last 25 years, the GEAR UP program has transformed the futures of thousands of Maine students by raising their aspirations and preparing them to affordably attend and complete college, helping more of Maine’s young people reach their full potential through this proven program,” said University of Maine Farmington President Joseph McDonnell. "We are pleased that the U.S. Department of Education has agreed to fund this program to continue this work and grateful to Sens. Collins and King and Reps. Pingree and Golden for their ongoing support of our partnerships… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:37:48Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-and-king-celebrate-national-lobster-day-2023 | Senators Collins and King Celebrate National Lobster Day 2023 | 2023-09-25 | 2023 | 2023-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C.— U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King today are celebrating Maine’s lobster industry after the Senate unanimously passed their bipartisan resolution designating September 25, 2023 as “National Lobster Day.” National Lobster Day recognizes the cultural, economic and environmental importance of the iconic species, which is a foundational part of Maine’s economy. Senators Collins and King have sponsored similar legislation in recognition of the day annually since 2015. “For decades, Maine lobstermen and women have committed themselves to the sustainability and long-term health of our waters — because they know that one day, just like those who came before them, it will be the turn of future generations to take to these tides. The industry is not just a cornerstone of our state’s economy, but is a vital component of our history, heritage, and identity,” said Senators Collins and King. “Today, we recognize the resiliency and success of our lobstermen and women, and the people across Maine, who wake up each day to power the fishery.” "Lobster is deeply ingrained in the heart and soul of Maine, where coastal and island communities depend on this historic industry," said Marianne LaCroix, Executive Director of the Maine Lobster Marketing Collaborative. "National Lobster Day offers an important opportunity to celebrate our delicious, sustainably sourced product with the country, and its positive contributions to the Maine economy. We're thankful to Senator King for his ongoing support of this important occasion." Lobster is a top economic driver for the state of Maine and, in 2022, the industry brought in over $388,000,000. Senators Collins and King have been vocal champions for the lobster industry in the U.S. Senate by pushing back against policies that could hinder future growth and successes. Late last year, Senators Collins and King secured a provision in the annual appropriations spending bill which included a regulatory reprieve to protect Maine’s sustainable lobster industry from arbitrar… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:37:48Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-cramer-shaheen-rounds-introduce-bill-to-help-servicemembers-access-benefits | King, Cramer, Shaheen, Rounds Introduce Bill to Help Servicemembers Access Benefits | 2023-09-22 | 2023 | 2023-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, U.S. Senators Angus King (I-Maine), Kevin Cramer (R-ND), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), and Mike Rounds (R-SD) have introduced a bill that would provide support to veterans in the Transition Assistance Program (TAP) applying for their well-deserved benefits. The TAP Promotion Act would allow accredited representatives from Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs), or other organizations, participate in TAP classes to help transitioning servicemembers file Benefits Delivery at Discharge (BDD) claims as TAP classroom instructors are not legally allowed to help veterans fill out benefits paperwork. Through BDD, servicemembers can file expedited claims and complete medical evaluations before leaving service. Receiving accelerated claims decisions means transitioning servicemembers would have minimal gaps in essential care like mental health counseling and medication management once they officially leave service. “Every year approximately 250,000 servicemembers transition out of military service into civilian life. Whether the servicemember is finishing their first deployment, or retiring, transitioning back into civilian life is a major life event full of uncertainties,” said Senator King. “The TAP Promotion Act would allow these servicemembers to connect with an informed, VA accredited representative who can mentor them in the process of applying for and receiving the benefits they earned. Thanks to my colleagues for understanding the importance of serving our veterans—just as they have served us throughout their careers.” “The Transition Assistance Program is invaluable for servicemembers to access resources for their transition back to civilian life,” said Senator Cramer. “State and county VSOs are an essential resource for veterans looking to utilize the many benefits available to them. Our legislation will provide greater access to these organizations during the program.” “Leaving military service and returning to civilian life marks one of the largest challenges our service men and women face. … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:37:48Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/his-fight-is-our-fight-king-says-in-response-to-zelenskyy-visit-to-capitol-hill | “His Fight is Our Fight,” King Says in Response to Zelenskyy Visit to Capitol Hill | 2023-09-21 | 2023 | 2023-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, U.S. Senator Angus King released the following statement after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy visited Capitol Hill to speak with lawmakers: “For over a year and a half, Ukraine has bravely defended its freedom and its sovereignty from a bloody, unprovoked invasion by an autocratic dictator. Putin believed he would quickly defeat his neighbor, rebuild the Soviet Union, and divide the Free World, but on every count, he has failed. While this war has waged longer than expected, it is because of the undeniable fortitude of the Ukrainian people, and the support of the global community, that freedom and democracy will prevail. “While weapons are launched to counter the ruthless Russian aggression, let’s be clear: they are also sending a signal to all opponents of freedom-loving people. If we waver, China will take note; if we don’t continue showing resolve, North Korea will see opportunity. We have seen dictators in the past, and their endgame is dominance, not democracy. “As I’ve told Maine people and said to President Zelenskyy in January, his fight is our fight – and that’s why we must provide the Ukrainians with what they need to defend themselves. If we don’t, dictatorship will spread—just like we saw in the lead up to World War II. “Thomas Jefferson, after writing the Declaration of Independence, swore eternal hostility against tyranny over the mind of man. Fighting tyranny, and deterring tyrannical aims, is a founding principle of this nation – and it’s nothing less than the current stakes we face.” Senator King has been a vocal advocate of supporting the ‘will to fight’ of the Ukrainian people against Russian aggression. In January, King visited Zelenskyy in Ukraine to understand the dynamics on the ground. He has also continuously questioned international experts on Putin’s strategy and how to best support Ukraine. ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:37:48Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-colleagues-call-on-va-to-protect-veterans-from-scammers-when-filing-for-benefits | King, Colleagues Call on VA to Protect Veterans from Scammers when Filing for Benefits | 2023-09-21 | 2023 | 2023-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King, a member of the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee, is joining a group of bipartisan colleagues in calling on the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to step up its protections for veterans against predatory scammers looking to cash in on their hard-earned benefits. In a letter to VA Secretary Denis McDonough, the lawmakers urge the department to enforce existing protections for veterans filing for disability benefits. They also request additional resources to hold bad actors accountable for scamming veterans. Senator King is a cosponsor of bipartisan legislation, the Governing Unaccredited Representatives Defrauding (GUARD) VA Benefits Act that would create criminal penalties for organizations charging unauthorized fees to help veterans file disability claims with the VA – an action prohibited under current law, but one that does not carry any criminal charges. “With the PACT Act providing the largest expansion of veterans’ benefits in decades, veterans are increasingly becoming the targets of predatory, quasi-legal claims consultants,” the lawmakers wrote in a letter to VA Secretary Denis McDonough. “The Department must exercise every enforcement tool at its disposal and request those it needs to better protect veterans from bad actors looking to take advantage of them.” Current law prohibits individuals and businesses from assisting a veteran in the preparation, presentation, or prosecution of a VA claim unless they are accredited through the VA. Additionally, under current law, fees for assistance may only be charged after the VA makes a decision on an initial claim. However, the VA and other federal agencies are limited in their ability to enforce the law because criminal penalties were eliminated from the statute nearly 20 years ago. The lawmakers continued, “Our mission is to protect veterans and ensure they are not paying unqualified individuals to receive their benefits. As co-sponsors of the GUARD VA Benefits Act to reinstate criminal penalties, we believe … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:37:48Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-introduces-help-our-kelp-act-to-protect-maine-coastal-ecosystem | King Introduces “Help Our Kelp Act” to Protect Maine Coastal Ecosystem | 2023-09-21 | 2023 | 2023-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Angus King (I-Maine) and Ron Wyden (D-OR), along with Representative Jared Huffman (D-CA-02), have introduced bicameral legislation to protect at-risk marine life and ecosystems. The Help Our Kelp Act would invest federal resources towards state, local, and federal efforts to restore and protect kelp forests against climate change and other human-caused disruption. Kelp forest ecosystems in Maine and along the nation’s shores provide food and habitat for hundreds of fish and marine mammals. These aquatic regions stabilize Maine’s coasts allowing for responsible economic activities including fishing, shipping, and innovations in the blue economy. Over the last 50 years, changes in climate, poor water quality, and overfishing have damaged between 40-60 percent of America’s kelp forests. “Healthy waters make for healthy people, but climate change and human activity are having an impact on these our coastal ecosystems – so we need to protect the beauty and bounty they provide,” said Senator King. “The Help Our Kelp Act is an important step to ensure that our iconic Maine fisheries, and surrounding communities, are able to serve as a habitat for marine life well into the future. We need continued investments and safeguards to protect our fisheries, and our Maine way of life. My gratitude goes out to my colleagues for recognizing the importance of kelp forests and working to protect one of Maine’s vital resources.” “It’s incredible to see these important environmental issues getting attention at the federal level. Seaweeds are essential to a thriving ocean and we are still learning about the positive benefits they provide in creating the ocean abundance that all of humanity relies on. By helping to restore and research natural seaweed beds throughout the US, this bill can help ensure that natural seaweed populations — and marine ecosystems — remain intact for future generations to come,” said Briana Warner, the CEO of Atlantic Sea Farms. "Kelp has provided a documented ecosystem ben… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:37:48Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/senators-collins-king-announce-287000-in-additional-funding-for-community-mental-health-services | Senators Collins, King Announce $287,000 in Additional Funding for Community Mental Health Services | 2023-09-21 | 2023 | 2023-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced that the Maine Department of Health and Human Services (Maine DHHS) will receive a total of $287,194 from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA) Community Mental Health Services Block Grant (MHBG) program. This funding is part of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act (BSCA), and is in addition to the more than $4 million Maine DHHS will receive in Fiscal Year 2023 through the MHBG program. "Mental health remains a critical component of overall community health," said Senators Collins and King. "This funding will help to enhance our state's capacity to address mental health challenges effectively while helping to ensure that every individual in our state has access to the support they need.” The MHBG program supports grantees in carrying out plans for providing comprehensive community mental health services. Specific targeted populations include adults with serious mental illnesses and children with serious emotional disturbances. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:37:48Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-nearly-12-million-for-atlantic-salmon-habitat-restoration-in-maine | Collins, King Announce Nearly $1.2 Million for Atlantic Salmon Habitat Restoration in Maine | 2023-09-20 | 2023 | 2023-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Today, Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced that four Maine organizations will receive a combined total of $1,196,000 from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) National Marine Fisheries Service to help restore habitats for endangered Atlantic salmon in Maine. Maine is home to the only remaining populations of wild Atlantic salmon, a species listed as endangered since 2000 due to threats from dams, pollution, and historic overfishing. “The health of our natural habitats is critical to the survival of species like the Atlantic salmon,” said Senators Collins and King. “These investments will support the protection and restoration of our existing, native Maine salmon habitats. The funding will also support efforts to reverse the habitat degradation that has contributed to the declining Atlantic salmon population in Maine’s watersheds." The funding is allocated as follows: Atlantic Salmon Federation - $50,000 to implement five projects aimed at restoring access to Atlantic salmon spawning and rearing habitats in the Kennebec River watershed; and to conduct a fish passage feasibility study at the Chesterville Wildlife Management Area Dam. Project SHARE - $264,000 to replace undersized culverts at 13 sites across the Dennys, Machias, Pleasant, Union, and Narraguagus River watersheds; to restore freshwater habitats in the Narraguagus River watershed; and to conduct fish passage feasibility studies at the Great Works Dam and at Marion Falls fishway. Downeast Salmon Federation - $277,000 to support fish passage improvements at the Gardner Lake Dam; to conduct fish passage feasibility studies at the Cherryfield Ice Control Dam on the Narraguagus River, and the Gardner Lake Dam on the East Machias River; and to support future habitat restoration in those watersheds. The Nature Conservancy - $605,000 to complete the final designs to remove Guilford Dam and restore the adjacent floodplain; and to improve fish passage at three high-priority road crossings over streams … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:37:48Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/during-suicide-prevention-month-king-questions-va-officials-on-work-to-improve-care | During Suicide Prevention Month, King Questions VA Officials on Work to Improve Care | 2023-09-20 | 2023 | 2023-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, during Suicide Prevention Month, U.S. Senator Angus King, discussed the importance of providing resources and support for veterans going through mental health challenges. In a hearing of the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee, King questioned Dr. Matthew Miller, the Executive Director for Suicide Prevention with the Veterans Health Administration through the Department of Veterans Affairs, and Gilly Cantor, the Director of Evaluation and Capacity Building at the D’Aniello Institute for Veterans and Military Families at Syracuse University, about what the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) can do to treat mental health challenges and prevent veteran suicide. He also discussed the importance of staffing up VA facilities to better treat our veterans going through these challenging times. Many of these issues were raised in King’s two-day tour of Maine’s VA facilities in August with VA Secretary Denis McDonough. Senate King began his questioning by asking about how financial strain is a big contributor of suicide ideation among the veteran community. “Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Dr. Miller, nice to see you in person we talked last week. One of the main issues that seems to be motivating suicides is financial and financial distress. And I think the data is four times – veterans with incomes below $50,000, who have financial problems are four times as likely to have ideation of suicide. What about a pilot in the helpline of the crisis line of having some financial expertise that could be referred? Are you having a financial problem? Here's somebody you can talk to. Is that something we could work on,” asked Senator King. “Yes is the short answer what you're getting at though sir is an important point in terms of instead of having maybe the referral from the Veterans Crisis Line – go to mental health – maybe it would be more appropriate for it to go to a financial counselor, in which case, then there's a ripple effect in capacity with mental health you save by putting people in the right plac… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:37:48Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-colleagues-call-on-biden-administration-to-lower-prescription-drug-prices-using-existing-authorities | King, Colleagues Call on Biden Administration to Lower Prescription Drug Prices Using Existing Authorities | 2023-09-20 | 2023 | 2023-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Angus King is calling on the Biden administration to do everything in its power to lower prescription drug costs for Americans. In a letter with Senator Elizabeth Warren and Congressman Lloyd Doggett, King urges Commerce (DOC) Secretary Gina Raimondo and Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Xavier Becerra to ensure a current Administration Working Group is taking steps to ensure the American people have access to reasonably priced prescription drugs – having not received any updates on the Working Group’s progress for “more than two months.” Last year, Senator King helped to pass the Inflation Reduction Act which included long awaited drug pricing reform, including lowering the costs of insulin and an out-of-pocket cap for adults on Medicare. In March of this year, HHS and DOC announced the formation of the Interagency Working Group for Bayh-Dole to explore the Administration’s powers under the Bayh-Dole Act to authorize the production of generic prescription drugs – known as “march-in” authorities. “We are writing to request information about the Interagency Working Group for Bayh-Dole (Working Group) and to urge the Working Group to move swiftly to lower drug prices for Americans,” wrote the lawmakers. “We are pleased that the Working Group will consider price in its evaluation of the Administration’s march-in authority, but we are concerned that there have been no public updates about the Working Group’s membership, process, timeline, or scope of work in the more than two months since it was first announced.” “Last summer, Congress passed overdue drug pricing reforms to help older adults afford their medications by empowering Medicare to negotiate some drug prices for the first time, limit price spikes, and cap out-of-pocket costs. Though this represents critical progress, more must be done to curb excessive drug prices, including for the more than 200 million Americans who are not on Medicare,” continued the lawmakers. “The Biden Administration can use its existing auth… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:37:48Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/how-feasible-is-watermarking-of-ai-generated-images-king-asks-in-senate-intelligence-hearing | “How Feasible is Watermarking of AI-Generated Images?” King Asks in Senate Intelligence Hearing | 2023-09-19 | 2023 | 2023-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senator Angus King spoke with an AI scientist about the need for regulation and liability of computer-generated or -altered content. In an open Senate Intelligence Committee hearing, King asked Dr. Yann LeCun – a New York University Professor of Computer Science and Data Science at New York University – about what is technologically feasible in terms of implementing watermarks (a small icon or caption) for users to discern between real and artificially created content. King began his questioning by asked how about the feasibility of labeling AI-generate content. “Now, Dr. LeCun, a very practical question. How feasible is watermarking of AI-generated images?” King asked. “This is of concern to us, frankly, because we are very likely to be subject to AI-generated false disinformation, very skillful. Our face, our voice, our gestures, but completely false. How feasible is it to require that AI-generated images on Facebook or on TikTok or Instagram all be watermarked or labeled in such a way so that the consumer will know that they're looking at something that isn't real …Is that something we should be thinking about here as we're thinking about regulation?” “Senator, this is a very timely question. Of course, it is technically feasible. The main issue is for a common standard to be adopted industry wide. So there needs to be a common way of watermarking, invisible or invisible way, using steganography,” LeCun responded. “The fact that the process by which a piece of information has been produced. This can be done with images and video and audio, such that a computer can detect whether the system has been generated by a generative AI system. But the user will have to not counteract. It will have to use the products to produce it that obey that standard. And so that needs to be adopted industry-wide. The problem is much more complicated for text. There is no easy way to hide a watermark inside of a text. People have tried to do this by kind of manipulating the frequency of different w… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:37:48Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/on-national-voter-registration-day-king-introduces-resolution-to-recognize-september-as-national-voting-rights-month | On National Voter Registration Day, King Introduces Resolution to Recognize September as National Voting Rights Month | 2023-09-19 | 2023 | 2023-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, on National Voter Registration Day, U.S. Senator Angus King is introducing a resolution to recognize September as “National Voting Rights Month.” The resolution encourages voter registration in the month of September and pushes Congress to restore the Voting Rights Act of 1965 to preserve the right to vote. “In the face of state-level threats that undercut the fundamental right to vote for millions of Americans, we must act to protect our democracy,” said Senator King. “Free, fair and open elections are the backbone of our national commitment to government of the people, by the people, and for the people – and through our efforts to increase voter turnout, we will do our part to pass this experiment in self-government on to the next generation of Americans. I encourage all Maine people, and Americans across the country, to register to vote today so that they can participate in our democracy this upcoming election season.” In addition to Senator King, the resolution is cosponsored by Senators Maria Cantwell, Tom Carper, Bob Casey, Dianne Feinstein, Tim Kaine, Amy Klobuchar, Ben Ray Lujan, Ed Markey, Alex Padilla, Tina Smith, Debbie Stabenow, Chris Van Hollen, and Sheldon Whitehouse. As a former member of the Senate Rules Committee, Senator King has been a longstanding supporter of increasing access to voting. He previously introduced the Freedom to Vote Act which would set basic national standards for voting rights. It would also end partisan gerrymandering and help eliminate the undue influence of secret money in our elections. In October 2021, he delivered an impassioned speech on the Senate floor urging action on voting rights, stating that we are currently “at a hinge of history” that will determine the future of the American experiment in self-government. He built on these arguments in a speech from the Senate floor where he called for reforms to the filibuster to allow for common sense voting rights legislation to pass. He also released the draft Electoral Count Modernization Act… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:37:48Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-urge-fda-to-crack-down-on-mislabeling-of-non-dairy-products | Collins, King Urge FDA to Crack Down on Mislabeling of Non-Dairy Products | 2023-09-18 | 2023 | 2023-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King joined a bipartisan group of colleagues in advocating for American dairy farmers and calling out the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for letting non-dairy lab-grown products illegally label their products with dairy terms. The bipartisan group highlighted the proliferation of imitation products, specifically the new cell-based, lab-grown imitators that are using dairy terms like milk, cheese and yogurt. “For decades FDA has allowed non-dairy products to illegally use dairy terms to label their imitation products, most of which are nutritionally inferior to the real dairy foods they purport to emulate,” wrote the Senators in a letter to FDA Commissioner Robert Califf. “Public health is now facing a new, additional perpetrator – Cell-based dairy imitation products. These are synthetically created options posing as natural foods, many of which are nutritionally inferior to the dairy products they imitate.” Current FDA regulations define dairy products as being from dairy animals, however, the FDA has failed to enforce these regulations, allowing non-dairy products to use dairy names, leading to the rapid growth of mislabeled alternative products that contain a range of ingredients and nutrients that are often not equivalent to the nutritional content of dairy products – including cell-based, synthetic dairy imitation products. By using dairy names like milk, these synthetic products are posing as natural foods, clearly violating the FDA’s standards of identity, which requires the food product be made from milk from an animal. “It is critical that FDA intervene to prevent this new violation committed by cell-based foods from compounding the harm Americans are already experiencing from FDA’s decades of inaction on plant-based mislabeling,” wrote the Senators. “New developments in food science should advance new and innovative products, not cause deeper injury to public health. It is FDA’s job to ensure a stable and transparent marketplace to support s… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:37:48Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/cyber-solarium-co-chairs-to-tout-commissions-success-and-path-forward-at-tuesday-forum | Cyber Solarium Co-Chairs to Tout Commission’s Success and Path Forward at Tuesday Forum | 2023-09-18 | 2023 | 2023-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C.— U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) and Representative Mike Gallagher (R-Wisc.), Co-Chairs of the Cyberspace Solarium Commission (CSC), today released the following statement prior to their Capitol Hill event discussing the successes of CSC efforts since its implementation in April 2019 and what the commission hopes to accomplish in the near future. Since its launch, the commission has seen about 70 percent of its recommendations fully or partially implemented. Joining King and Gallagher on the panel will be Chris Inglis, the former National Cyber Director, and Rear Admiral (Ret.) Mark Montgomery, the Executive Director of the CSC. Maggie Miller, a cybersecurity reporter at Politico, will moderate the conversation. The panel comes on the heels of the recently released National Cybersecurity Strategy which lays out the Biden Administration’s policy goals for the nation’s roles, responsibilities, and resources in cyberspace in addition to the nomination of Harry Coker to fill the vacant National Cyber Director role. “Over the course of several years, the Cyberspace Solarium Commission has proven that its report is not just sitting on a shelf collecting dust. We are proactively meeting the urgent needs of American cybersecurity policy to protect national critical infrastructure, enhance public-private and international collaboration, invest in federal network security, improve the cyber ecosystem, and impose costs on threatening actors,” Senator King and Congressman Gallagher said. “In Congress, we recognize that keeping the momentum going to meet these goals will not be without challenges or difficult conversations, but we intend to continue providing resources to support our country’s cybersecurity needs. With strong, forward-leaning partnerships across the public and private sectors, we can achieve national cyber resiliency and prepare our country for success in cyberspace.” As Co-Chairs of the Cyberspace Solarium Commission (CSC), Senator King and Representative Gallagher are recognized as two… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:37:48Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/maine-delegation-announces-funding-opportunities-for-debris-removal-in-coastal-communities | Maine Delegation Announces Funding Opportunities for Debris Removal in Coastal Communities | 2023-09-18 | 2023 | 2023-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King and U.S. Representatives Chellie Pingree and Jared Golden announced that $19 million in federal funding is now available to combat marine debris in coastal communities through the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Sea Grant Program. This grant program, funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, will support healthy marine ecosystems nationwide. The funding opportunities are part of nearly $3 billion in targeted investments by NOAA in the areas of habitat restoration, coastal resilience and weather forecasting infrastructure through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. “As residents of the most beautiful coastal state, we deeply value the long-term health of our oceans and coastal communities,” the Maine delegation said. “This funding will help organizations and non-profits keep our oceans clean in groundbreaking ways. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law has already proved itself as a once-in-generation investment in our state’s future success so we are pleased to see additional targeted investments will be available to support coastal communities.” There are two funding opportunities available for interested applicants: The Marine Debris Challenge Competition will include approximately $16 million in funding available to support innovative, transformational research-to-application projects that will address the prevention and removal of marine debris, with award periods of three years. This opportunity is open to any person or group within the United States or its territories, as well as tribal nations within those geographies. Applicants must submit proposals in partnership with a relevant Sea Grant Program. Please note that it is not a requirement that investigators, including the principal investigator, be part of a Sea Grant program. The Marine Debris Community Action Coalitions opportunity will include approximately $3 million in funding available to support the creation of coalitions and partnerships to address mar… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:37:48Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-statement-commemorating-pow/mia-day | King Statement Commemorating POW/MIA Day | 2023-09-15 | 2023 | 2023-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | BRUNSWICK, ME – Today, U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine), a member of the Senate Armed Services and Veterans Affairs Committees, released the following statement in observance of National POW/MIA Recognition Day. The day recognizes America’s servicemembers who have been Prisoners of War, those still Missing in Action, and their families. “On National Prisoners of War and Missing in Action Recognition Day, we join together to honor the brave men and women of our Armed Forces who have been Prisoners of War, and we remember those who remain Missing in Action—including the 477 Mainers whose whereabouts are still unknown,” said Senator King. “This solemn day is a painful yet important reminder of the sacrifices endured by servicemembers, and the enormous loss and uncertainty borne by their families. Let us renew our commitment to bring answers and closure to the loved ones of those Missing in Action, and to care for all those who have endured the painful silence of these losses. “Today, I join people across Maine and our nation in saying, ‘You Are Not Forgotten.’ The phrase is reminder of our duty to leave no American behind. I stand humbled and grateful to those who answered the call of their nation to protect our way of life. We also pay tribute to those who have been POW/MIA and have returned to their loved ones—we have a solemn obligation to take care of them and their families. “And to the comrades who have lost their friends and companions, know that today and every day we stand with you through your hardships, and in honoring the selfless service of America’s POW and MIA. As our servicemembers know all too well: freedom is not free. Thank you for your continued service to our nation, our democracy, and our American way of life.” ### | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:37:48Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/ahead-of-constitution-day-senators-king-and-lankford-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-strengthen-civics-education-and-pursue-a-more-perfect-union | Ahead of Constitution Day, Senators King and Lankford Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Strengthen Civics Education and Pursue a ‘More Perfect Union’ | 2023-09-14 | 2023 | 2023-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senators Angus King (I-Maine) and James Lankford (R-Okla.) have introduced bipartisan legislation to strengthen civics education resources for school children across the United States. Introduced ahead of Constitution Day on September 17, the Constitution education Is Valuable In Community Schools (CIVICS) Act would require higher education federal grant recipients to include Constitution education as a condition for the funding. The bill recognizes the importance of the United States Constitution, democratic values, and the role of good governance for the benefit of ‘a more perfect union.’ “Since its ratification in 1788, the U.S. Constitution has guided America’s system of government, and has been the blueprint for freedom and democracy around the globe,” Senator King said. “The continued success of our unique experiment in self-government relies on each successive generation understanding our shared past, national values, and the framers’ careful – though imperfect – work. If we truly want a government of the people, by the people, and for the people, we must make sure the people have the tools and perspective needed to play their part. It is the responsibility of this generation to ensure our students receive a full civics education. By passing the CIVICS Act, and expanding teaching of the Constitution, we can help young Americans gain the knowledge they need to continue our never ending work of building ‘a more perfect union.’” “The Constitution isn’t just paper and ink. The soul of our nation rests in what our Constitution represents: the rule of law, personal responsibility without government coercion, protection of humanity, and a limited federal government,” Lankford said. “We must continue to safeguard those values and defend the Constitution’s carefully crafted guarantees of our freedoms and rights. Our children will only live our American values if we intentionally commit to pass down our Constitutional values to the next generation.” First established in 1952, Congre… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:37:48Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-urges-rethinking-of-navy-readiness-production-strategy-to-strengthen-fleet-and-empower-maines-shipyards | King Urges "Rethinking" of Navy Readiness, Production Strategy to Strengthen Fleet and Empower Maine’s Shipyards | 2023-09-14 | 2023 | 2023-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C.— Concerned over the “waning” of America’s military deterrence capabilities, Senator Angus King today pressed the nominee for Chief of Naval Operations Lisa Franchetti to reassess the fleet’s readiness and abilities. In a hearing of the Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), Senator King asked Admiral Franchetti about the Navy’s ability to deter foreign adversaries from threats and attacks against American interests and allies. King also discussed the need to invest in the defense industrial base, specifically in the people working to keep the Navy afloat. Senator King began his remarks by commenting on the Navy’s readiness and ability to deter our adversaries from threats and attacks on our interests and allies. “Admiral, as you know, the cornerstone of our defense policy for at least 70 years has been deterrence. And deterrence only works if the deterrent is credible. I am concerned, and this is to put a fine point on some of the comments that have already been made, that the credibility of our deterrent is waning, particularly in light of the massive capacity increase in China and clearly the aggressive nature of Russia at this point. Deterrence doesn't work, and this weakness is an invitation to war. And I believe, in spite of the efforts to improve productivity and output of our maintenance bases as well as our construction facilities, we need more capacity. 30% of the naval ships, which I think you mentioned that are not available at any given moment is absolutely unacceptable. No business in the private sector would have 30% of their capital assets idle. And clearly, workforce is a challenge and one of the barriers. But I would hope that you would consider a serious rethinking of capacity in terms of maintaining the size of the Navy that we need, and the availability of the Navy that we need. I think it's time for a ‘hair on fire’ task force on this issue. We can improve productivity at those facilities, but looking at the numbers, it just doesn’t seem like that will be enough. Your thou… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:37:48Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/king-introduces-legislation-to-address-maintenance-backlog-at-university-of-maine-federal-agricultural-research-facilities | King Introduces Legislation to Address Maintenance Backlog at University of Maine, Federal Agricultural Research Facilities | 2023-09-13 | 2023 | 2023-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C. –U.S. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) has introduced legislation to address the maintenance backlog at agricultural research facilities in Maine and across the country. The AuGmenting Research and Educational Sites to Ensure Agriculture Remains Cutting-edge and Helpful (AG RESEARCH) Act would address deferred maintenance at U.S. schools of agriculture, including agricultural research facilities at the University of Maine and USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS) facilities. “Agricultural research has been essential to the success of Maine’s hardworking farmers for generations and their ability to continue producing high-quality and delicious products,” said Senator King. “Unfortunately, too many agricultural sciences schools have been facing deferred maintenance issues that impede their ability to conduct critical research and postpones repairs to a later – and more expensive – date. As technology advances and opens new agricultural opportunities, it’s important our research centers stay up-to-date with the latest tools available. This bill will ensure that land-grant universities, like the University of Maine, can further invest in its research facilities and create added stability to help these institutions move forward with their important work.” “The growth of Maine’s agriculture and dependent rural communities relies on cutting-edge research and workforce development undertaken by our R1 land grant university with industry and other partners. Even with the talent and ingenuity of our incredible faculty, staff and students, it is increasingly challenging for them to conduct 21st century research in facilities constructed in the 19th and early 20th centuries,” said University of Maine President Joan Ferrini-Mundy, who also serves as the University of Maine System’s Vice Chancellor for Research and Innovation. “We appreciate how Senator King and his colleagues in Congress continue to champion this critically important federal investment that would provide UMaine with the opportunity to modern… | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:37:48Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/as-school-year-begins-king-introduces-bill-to-expand-tax-deductions-for-school-supplies-purchased-out-of-pocket | As School Year Begins, King Introduces Bill to Expand Tax Deductions for School Supplies Purchased Out-of-Pocket | 2023-09-12 | 2023 | 2023-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | WASHINGTON, D.C.— U.S. Senator Angus King has introduced a bill to expand tax deductions for teachers that pay out-of-pocket for school supplies. The Educators Expense Deduction Modernization Act of 2023 would more than triple the amount educators can deduct from their taxes for out-of-pocket classroom expenses – from notebooks to pencils to paper products. The current deduction for teachers is $300 – far less than most teachers report spending out of their own pocket each year. The legislation would increase that amount to $1,000 and index it to inflation going forward. “As the son of two public school teachers, I’m eternally grateful for the contributions of America’s educators,” said Senator King. “From the moment they walk into a classroom, Maine’s teachers lay the foundation for our children’s success and provide an invaluable, often underappreciated service to our communities. This bill will ensure that our teachers can receive expanded tax deductions when they pay out-of-pocket to buy learning tools for their students. I hope we can all take time to recognize the contributions of Maine educators, and educators across the nation, who devote their lives to teaching the next generation.” According to the Maine Department of Education, there are 14,714 educators that are licensed to work in Maine’s schools. Recent reports estimate that teachers are paid 20 percent less than similarly-skilled professionals – and are often asked to cover everyday classroom expenses. Increasing the tax deduction for workplace expenses recognizes the personal sacrifices so many educators make to ensure our children have the tools to learn. Joining Senator King on the legislation are Senators Sherrod Brown (OH), Bob Casey (PA), Tina Smith (MN), Amy Klobuchar (MN), Chris Van Hollen (MD), Chris Murphy (D-CN), Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), Alex Padilla (D-CA), and Bob Menendez (D-NJ). Rep. Tim Burchett (R-TN) and Rep. Sean Casten (D-IL) are expected to introduce bipartisan companion legislation in the House of Representatives this week. … | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:37:48Z |
| https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/collins-king-announce-more-than-450000-for-new-alzheimers-research-at-the-jackson-laboratory | Collins, King Announce More than $450,000 for New Alzheimer’s Research at The Jackson Laboratory | 2023-09-12 | 2023 | 2023-09 | Independent | Senate | ME | Angus S. King, Jr. | K000383 | www.king.senate.gov | angusking | https://www.king.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/table | scraper | Washington, D.C. – Today, U.S. Senators Susan Collins and Angus King announced that The Jackson Laboratory is receiving $480,536 from the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The grant will fund an innovative research project aimed at developing new treatments for Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRDs). "The work being done at The Jackson Laboratory is making tremendous strides in addressing the challenges posed by cognitive decline,” said Senators Collins and King. "This investment will better support efforts to contribute to breakthroughs in treatment for diseases like Alzheimer’s, offering hope for improved quality of life for the millions of American families affected by these conditions." Specifically, researchers at The Jackson Laboratory are honing in on a vital pathway known as Angiopoietin/TIE2 (ANG/TIE2), which plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy vascular function. By delving into the intricate workings of the ANG/TIE2 pathway, the scientists aim to unlock novel strategies to protect brain vasculature from harm. This would have the potential to slow down or prevent cognitive decline in those afflicted with ADRDs. Earlier this year, Senators Collins and King announced more than $1.2 million in funding secured for The Jackson Laboratory to support three separate biomedical research projects. The Jackson Laboratory is an independent, nonprofit biomedical research institution headquartered in Bar Harbor. Its mission is to discover precise genomic solutions for diseases and empower the global biomedical community in the shared quest to improve human health. | 1 | 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z | 2026-04-08T00:37:48Z |
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