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177 rows where chamber = "Senate", state = "CT" and year = 2020 sorted by date descending

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  • Senate · 177 ✖
url title date ▲ year month party chamber state member_name bioguide_id domain scraper source date_source text has_text collected_at updated_at
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-applauds-announcement-former-chief-staff-lee-slater-named-special Larson Applauds Announcement that Former Chief of Staff, Lee Slater, is Named as Special Assistant to President-elect Biden 2020-12-30 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT John Larson L000557 larson.house.gov     legacy Hartford, CT Today, Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01) applauded the announcement that his former Chief of Staff, Lee Slater, has been named as a Special Assistant to President-elect Biden. I am thrilled that Lee Slater as been named as a Special Assistant to President-elect Biden. I've had the pleasure of knowing Lee for more than a decade and having him as my Chief of Staff for nearly five years. Over the course of his career, Lee has earned the respect of members throughout the Caucus who turn to him for advice on the floor and in the Ways and Means Committee. Lee embodies what it means to be a public servant from his work in the House, his tours in Afghanistan and Iraq in the Army, and now onto the White House. I know Lee will serve President-elect Biden and the American people well, said Larson. Slater has served on Larson's staff from 2008 to 2017. He served as his Chief of Staff from March 2012 to January 2017. Since 2017, Slater has served Director of Outreach and Member Services for the Ways and Means Committee, on which Larson sits. He previously worked for Congressman Jason Altmire of Pennsylvania, and served in the United States Army Reserves, including deployments in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan and Operation Iraqi Freedom in Iraq. He earned his Bachelor's Degree in Political Science from the University of Pittsburgh. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-presents-glastonbury-student-congressional-award-0 Larson Presents Glastonbury Student with Congressional Award 2020-12-30 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT John Larson L000557 larson.house.gov     legacy Hartford, CT - Today, Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01) presented Jay Srivastava, a student from Glastonbury, CT with a Bronze and Silver Congressional Award Medal. I'm honored to congratulate Jay and present him with the Bronze and Silver Congressional Award today. Jay has proven to be selfless and resilient. His dedication in continuing to challenge himself and his commitment to community service is inspiring to see in someone so young. I'm proud to have Jay in the First Congressional District. I am excited to see all the wonderful things he will continue to do in the future, said Larson. Jay is receiving the Bronze and Silver Congressional Award medal for achieving his goals in voluntary public service, personal development, personal fitness, and expedition/exploration. To complete his Voluntary Public Service, Jay volunteered through the Civil Air Patrol (CAP) to serve his community and honor the service of our veterans. He also volunteered helping middle school children with their homework and Math and English work. Jay has also accomplished his personal goals by participating in aircraft build project to learn about aviation, improved his speed for the 5K, and took the lead on planning a family trip to Ecuador where he had to organize his return home when his trip was interrupted by the COVID19 pandemic. The Congressional Award was established by Congress in 1979. It recognizes students who have committed to bettering and challenging themselves and to give back to their local communities. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delauro-statement-trump-signing-coronavirus-relief-and-omnibus-spending DeLauro Statement on Trump Signing Coronavirus Relief and Omnibus Spending Package 2020-12-28 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT Rosa DeLauro D000216 delauro.house.gov     legacy NEW HAVEN, CT Chair-designate of the House Appropriations Committee Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) issued this statement after President Trump's belated signing of H.R. 133, the bipartisan coronavirus relief bill and omnibus spending package: This economic relief and omnibus spending package will help the American people begin to recover and rebuild. From investments in our schools and child care industry to food assistance for hard-working families to investments in our workforce and critical protections for our environment and natural resources, this bill creates opportunities and allows our communities to build back better. This bill should have been signed without this unnecessary delay, as soon as it passed the Senate. This relief must be implemented immediately so people can worry less about their unemployment benefits, their next meal, the future of their small business, and the potential of being evicted from their home. Today, my Republican colleagues in the House will have the chance to join Democrats in the fight to put money in the pockets of Americans. I hope that they listen to the people and support the increase of direct payments to $2,000. The coronavirus relief included in this package is a start, but I am committed to fighting for more relief to support families and help our businesses recover. I look forward to working with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle and the Biden-Harris Administration to pass additional coronavirus relief so our communities can rebuild stronger and more prosperous. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-votes-override-defense-bill-veto-president-trump Larson Votes to Override Defense Bill Veto by President Trump 2020-12-28 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT John Larson L000557 larson.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. - Today, Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01) voted to override President Trump's veto of the FY2021 National Defense Authorization Act. Today the House of Representatives came together to override the President's veto of the National Defense Authorization Act. President Trump's veto blocks a pay raise for our troops, hurts Connecticut manufacturers, and jeopardizes our national security. This bipartisan bill was vetoed over something that has nothing to do with our national defense, in a reckless last act by an outgoing President. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delauro-statement-house-republicans-denying-american-people-2000 DeLauro Statement on House Republicans Denying the American People $2,000 in Economic Impact Payments 2020-12-24 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT Rosa DeLauro D000216 delauro.house.gov     legacy DeLauro: The American People have had enough of these games NEW HAVEN, CT Chair-designate of the House Appropriations Committee Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) issued this statement on House Republicans blocking Democrats' Unanimous Consent request to increase economic impact payments to $2,000: As families look ahead to 2021 and search for joy this holiday season, they are again met with more of the same from this administration and Republicans: lofty promises, confusion, and inaction. The American people have had enough of these games. I, and my fellow Democrats in both the House and the Senate, fought for $2,000 payments. We know the value of these checks as families fend off eviction and fight to put food on the table. Republicans fought us every step of the way to $600, a fight the President had the opportunity to be a part of. I am ashamed of my Republican colleagues in the House for blocking this Unanimous Consent request and look forward to voting in favor of the standalone bill to increase these critical payments. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/courtney-statement-president-trump-s-decision-veto-ndaa-and-defund-us Courtney Statement on President Trumps Decision to Veto the NDAA and Defund U.S. Armed Forces 2020-12-23 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT Joe Courtney C001069 courtney.house.gov     legacy VERNON, CT Congressman Joe Courtney (CT-02), Chairman of the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Seapower and Projection Forces, issued the following statement today after President Donald Trump vetoed the overwhelmingly bipartisan 2021 National Defense Authorization Act in a move to defund the United States Armed Forces and deny a pay raise American troops: President Trump's veto, and the incoherent statement that accompanied it, is exactly the wrong thing for servicemembers, their families, veterans, and critical programs for our national defensespecifically including cyber and Navy shipbuilding, said Chairman Courtney. The bill he trashed is the product of a full year of bipartisan work that strengthens deterrence in the Indo-Pacific with a groundbreaking Pacific Defense Initiative that our allies strongly support, a revamping of cyber defense to counter Russia's brazen hacking, and new protections for victims of Agent Orange. In every respect, his veto statement is disconnected from the facts and it leaves the financial security of our men and women in uniform in limbo, which is an outrage. I look forward to joining my colleagues on Monday to override this irresponsible action in accordance with the Constitution. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://himes.house.gov/informacion Recursos de Coronavirus 2020-12-23 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT Jim Himes H001047 himes.house.gov     legacy Incluye pagos de estmulo para familias de estatus mixto, tanto de forma prospectiva como retroactiva. Aunque esto no proporciona pagos en efectivo para todos los inmigrantes declarantes de impuestos, esto es una gran victoria. Financiacin de muros a nivel FY 20 (1.375b) y ninguna autoridad de transferencia especfica de la pared, por lo que se aplica un lmite del 10%. Un pequeo aument a la financiacin de CBP. Los niveles de gasto de detencin y de ICE han bajado desde el ao 20. Camas de detencin financiadas a 34K camas. Pero esto es dos veces el nivel de las camas actuales en uso- 17K en uso actualmente, mientras que se estn siendo financiadas 34K. No hay financiacin para agentes fronterizos o agentes de seguridad de inmigracin. Incluye una extensin de un ao del programa de ajuste Liberiano. 5 millones para el programa ATD dirigido por FEMA. Aumenta la financiacin de presentaciones de orientacin legal. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/courtney-statement-nomination-dr-miguel-cardona-serve-next-us-secretary Courtney Statement on the Nomination of Dr. Miguel Cardona to serve as Next U.S. Secretary of Education 2020-12-22 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT Joe Courtney C001069 courtney.house.gov     legacy VERNON, CT Congressman Joe Courtney (CT-02), a senior member of the House Education and Labor Committee, made the following statement today after President-elect Joe Biden announced that Dr. Miguel Cardona, a former classroom teacher and current Connecticut Education Commissioner, will be nominated to serve as the 12th Secretary of Education. President-elect Biden and Vice President-elect Harris should be commended for this outstanding pick for Secretary of Education, said Congressman Courtney. Doctor Cardona brings a powerful personal story of the importance of education in his life, which began in difficult circumstances. He brings also twenty years of experience working in the classrooms of our public schools. He knows what it means to lead and inspire real teachers, students and parentsthat's why he was named statewide Principal of the Year in Connecticut, which from its beginnings has made strong investments in public education. Congratulations to Doctor Cardona and his family on this exciting announcement. I know it comes following years of hard work and late nights, and I look forward as a member of the House Education and Labor Committee to working with him for a more successful, inclusive department of education. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delauro-looks-ahead-strong-partnership-miguel-cardona-president-elect DeLauro Looks Ahead to Strong Partnership with Miguel Cardona, President-elect Biden's Nominee for Education Secretary 2020-12-22 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT Rosa DeLauro D000216 delauro.house.gov     legacy NEW HAVEN, CT Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03), Chair-designate of the House Appropriations Committee and Chair of the subcommittee that determines federal funding for education issued the following statement on Miguel Cardona's nomination forEducation Secretary: Connecticut native, former public school teacher, and a proven champion for students, Miguel Cardona will be a strong partner as we work to recover from both the pandemic and the past four years under an administration that undermined public education and critical protections for students. I have seen firsthand Miguel Cardona's ability to bridge divides, a skill that will be critical in the coming months. As chair of the subcommittee that determines U.S. spending on education, I am thrilled to have an ally in this fight for families that hails from Connecticut. I look forward to getting to work to accomplish our shared desire to increase school funding and provide for students at all levels. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/house-delegation-delauro-larson-courtney-himes-hayes-secure-historic House Delegation, DeLauro, Larson, Courtney, Himes, Hayes, Secure Historic Victories for Connecticut in Omnibus Spending Package 2020-12-22 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT Rosa DeLauro D000216 delauro.house.gov     legacy Legislation invests in programs at the center of Connecticut's health and economic crises HARTFORD, CT Representatives Rosa DeLauro (CT-03), John B. Larson (CT-01), Joe Courtney (CT-02), Jim Himes (CT-04), and Jahana Hayes (CT-05) secured historic investments for Connecticut in the fiscal year 2021 omnibus spending package and coronavirus relief deal. This legislation, which originated in the House and is expected to be signed into law, provides critical coronavirus relief, invests in the programs at the center of the country's health and economic crises, creates jobs in Connecticut, and supports working families. The coronavirus pandemic has devastated so many Connecticut families and shuttered countless businesses, said Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro. From investments in Connecticut's schools and child care industry to food assistance for hard-working families to investments in our workforce and critical protections for our environment and natural resources, this bill creates opportunities and allows our communities to build back better. The coronavirus relief included in this package is a start, but we are committed to fighting for more relief to support families and help our businesses recover. I am grateful for Connecticut's strong delegation and our ability to unite and deliver real results for our state. This year's omnibus spending package included many major victories for Connecticut, including a tax benefit for volunteer First Responders, a boost for Connecticut's defense manufacturing, funding for Hartford's federal courthouse, and research into crumbling foundations. It also included vital funding for COVID relief (including enhanced unemployment benefits and money for testing and vaccines), our public schools, food assistance programs, and energy assistance. These funding increases will help Connecticut families and communities during these difficult times, said Congressman John B. Larson. In the new year, the Connecticut Congressional Delegation, spearheaded by the new Appropriations Chair, our own Ro… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://himes.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/intelligence-authorization-himes-provisions-included-end-year-package Intelligence Authorization with Himes Provisions Included in End of Year Package 2020-12-22 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT Jim Himes H001047 himes.house.gov     legacy Washington, DC Last night, the House of Representatives passed the annual Intelligence Authorization Act (IAA) as part of the end-of-year package that included government funding for the coming year and coronavirus-relief spending. The IAA authorizesthe United States' IntelligenceCommunities (IC)programs and budget. Several provisions included in the funding bill were adapted from initiatives and bills championed by Congressman Jim Himes (CT-04), who serves as the Chairman of the Strategic Technologies and Advanced Research (STAR) Subcommittee of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence. As a member of the Intelligence Committee, I spend much of my time thinking about our national security and how to stay one step ahead of our geopolitical rivals, said Himes. The most recent Sunburst hack, which appears to originate from Russia, shows that we must always be vigilant because those who would harm us never rest. That's why I am pleased that many proposals that will enhanceour cybersecurity made it into the IAA. The bill includes: A requirement that the Office of the Director of National Intelligence submit a report to Congresson research and development for scientific and technological advancementsof foreign adversariesthat impact the national security of the United States. And provide insight on cooperation/collaboration with allies Authority for theIntelligence Community (IC) toestablish relationships with academic institutions to enhance the skill set of the future IC workforce, in particular as it relates to science, technology, engineering, the arts, and mathematics. Adoption of several of the Cyberspace Solarium proposals, including how the IC interacts with the private sector and operators of critical infrastructure concerning foreign cybersecurity threats. Contains language indicating that the IC should consolidate its artificial intelligence research and development activities and requires the DNI to identify such areas. In October of this year, the STAR Subcommittee released a report, Rig… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/house-delegation-larson-delauro-courtney-himes-hayes-secure-historic House Delegation, Larson, DeLauro Courtney, Himes, Hayes, Secure Historic Victories for Connecticut in Omnibus Spending Package 2020-12-22 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT John Larson L000557 larson.house.gov     legacy HARTFORD, CT Representatives John B. Larson (CT-01), Rosa DeLauro (CT-03), Joe Courtney (CT-02), Jim Himes (CT-04), and Jahana Hayes (CT-05) secured historic investments for Connecticut in the fiscal year 2021 omnibus spending package and coronavirus relief deal.This legislation, which originated in the House and is expected to be signed into law, provides critical coronavirus relief, invests in the programs at the center of the country's health and economic crises, creates jobs in Connecticut, and supports working families. This year's omnibus spending package included many major victories for Connecticut, including a tax benefit for volunteer First Responders, a boost for Connecticut's defense manufacturing, funding for Hartford's federal courthouse, and research into crumbling foundations. It also included vital funding for COVID relief (including enhanced unemployment benefits and money for testing and vaccines), our public schools, food assistance programs, and energy assistance. These funding increases will help Connecticut families and communities during these difficult times,said Congressman John B. Larson.In the new year, the Connecticut Congressional Delegation, spearheaded by the new Appropriations Chair, our own Rosa DeLauro, will continue to work hard for the citizens of Connecticut. The coronavirus pandemic has devastated so many Connecticut families and shuttered countless businesses, said Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro. From investments in Connecticut's schools and child care industry to food assistance for hard-working families to investments in our workforce and critical protections for our environment and natural resources, this bill creates opportunities and allows our communities to build back better. The coronavirus relief included in this package is a start, but we are committed to fighting for more relief to support families and help our businesses recover. I am grateful for Connecticut's strong delegation and our ability to unite and deliver real results for our state. I'm proud as always to … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-applauds-nomination-miguel-cardona-education-secretary Larson Applauds Nomination of Miguel Cardona as Education Secretary 2020-12-22 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT John Larson L000557 larson.house.gov     legacy Hartford, CT Today, Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01) applauded the nomination of Connecticut Commissioner of Education, Dr. Miguel Cardona to serve as Education Secretary in the Biden-Harris Administration. Dr. Miguel Cardona is an outstanding choice for Education Secretary.I'm excited to see a fellow Central Connecticut State University alum and teacher join the Biden Administration. Dr. Cardona hasbeen a fantastic leader oftheConnecticut Department of Education, especially during the pandemic. I know he will doan excellentjobas theU.S.Secretary of Education.It willbenice to have someone who values public education once again leading us nationally.Congratulations Dr. Cardona! ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-statement-passing-former-bridgeport-state-senator-ed-gomes Larson Statement on Passing of Former Bridgeport State Senator Ed Gomes 2020-12-22 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT John Larson L000557 larson.house.gov     legacy Hartford, CT Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01) released the following statement on the passing of former Bridgeport State Senator Ed Gomes: Senator Ed Gomes was a strong fighter for Bridgeport families. A dedicated and passionate public servant, Senator Gomes was a force in the Connecticut State Senate and fought tirelessly to improve the lives of working families in Bridgeport and across the state. My thoughts and prayers are with his family during this time. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-tax-benefit-volunteer-first-responders-made-permanent Larson Tax Benefit for Volunteer First Responders Made Permanent 2020-12-22 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT John Larson L000557 larson.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. Last night, the House passedHR 133, the FY 2021 omnibus, whichmadeRep. John B. Larson's (CT-01)Volunteer Responder Incentive Protection Act (VRIPA)permanent. VRIPA exempts from taxation thenominal recruitment and retentionbenefits volunteer firefighters and emergency medical services (EMS) personnel receive from their communities. Every day, but especially in the midst of this raging pandemic, volunteer first responders go above and beyond to help and protect our neighborhoods. Volunteer first responders' service annually produces approximately $140 billion in cost savings to our communities, yet these brave volunteers have been forced to pay federal taxes for their uniforms and other nominal benefits that their communities bestow in return. I have been fighting for this relief since I took office. In 2007 a similar provision was made temporary, and I vowed once we came back into the majority, we would make this tax benefit permanent. I am very proud the permanent tax exemption for these benefits is included the relief package. This commonsense, bipartisan legislation eases the burden placed upon our volunteer first responders who already sacrifice so much, said Larson. No secret, volunteerism is decreasing all over America, including South Windsor, CT. With the decrease in volunteerism, there also has been an increase, specifically for Firefighters, with NFPA (National Fire Protections Associations) standards and requirements and related Department demands, making it even harder to recruit and retain members of a volunteer Fire Department. With Communities such as South Windsor, we are blessed as they offer many incentives to help with these issues only to find that some of the incentives were taxable income and withholding. Thanks to the efforts of Congressman Larson and a few others, the VRIPA helps minimize these tax burdens on our members. With this Act now standing as permanent', this incentive protection will certainly assist with recruitment efforts for years to come, said Kevin E. Coon… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/courtney-votes-pass-omnibus-spending-bill-provides-covid-19-aid-protects Courtney Votes to Pass Omnibus Spending Bill that Provides COVID-19 Aid, Protects Plum Island and More 2020-12-21 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT Joe Courtney C001069 courtney.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC Today, Congressman Joe Courtney (CT-02)voted to pass the2021 Consolidated Appropriations Act(H.R.133), a bipartisan omnibus agreementthat includeslong-awaitedCOVID-19relief provisions, andthatwould avoid a looming government shutdown. The agreementincludes relief provisions that the House hasfought for months to secure throughbills like the HEROES Act, includinga new round of forgivable PPP loans, strong support for restaurants and other small businesses, enhanced unemployment insurance, new rental assistance, and much more.H.R. 133 passed the House with strong bipartisan support, and is expected to receive a vote in the Senate later this evening. Theomnibusagreementalsofundsthe federal governmentthroughSeptember 30, 2021. In addition to therestoration of a fully funded second Virginia-class submarine that Courtney has championed this year, thebillcontainsseveral key priorities for eastern Connecticut, includinglanguage that reflects legislation introduced by Courtney,Rep. Lee Zeldin (R-NY)and otherstosavePlum Islandbyofficiallyrepealingthe lawmandatingitssale.The House has voted forfive years in a rowto repeal the law that mandates the sale ofthe island. Today's omnibusagreementforced the issue in the Senate, andwill protect Plum Islandonce and for all. My office works with families, small businesses, and othersthroughouteastern Connecticut every day who need more help during COVID-19they don't needspecial treatment, theyjustneed Congressto work together and do their job,said Rep. Courtney.Today, the Houseledthe wayonceagain toauthorizenew, bipartisan COVID-19relief. The new omnibus package will be a shot in the arm to the Unemployment Insurance program, will resupply and expand opportunities forrestaurants and other businesses who rely on PPP, EIDL and otherloans, andincludes numerous other crucial assistance like paid sick leave, rental assistance,helpful new tax credits for families and small businesses, and much more. H.R. 133will alsoavoid a costly government shutdown at… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/second-virginia-class-submarine-fully-funded-bipartisan-omnibus-spending Second Virginia-Class Submarine is Fully Funded in Bipartisan Omnibus Spending Package 2020-12-21 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT Joe Courtney C001069 courtney.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC Rep. Joe Courtney's (CT-02) year-long effort to fully restore construction of a second Virginia-class submarine in 2021 has officially been included in the final negotiated omnibus spending package released today. As Chairman of the House Armed ServicesSeapowerand Projection Forces Subcommittee, Courtney has led the bipartisan effort to restore the second submarine since February, when the White House submitted ashipbuilding budget request to Congress that called for the removal of the second submarine and for the fewest number of combatant vessels in over a decade.The House and Senate areexpected tovoteon the measure today. The Trump Administration's shipbuilding budget request would have robbed an entire submarine from the Navy's toolbox, and undermined the workforce not just at Electric Boat but in countless manufacturing shops across our country,said Chairman Courtney.Since February, we worked non-stop to restore the two-per-year submarine program of record in the final 2021 NDAA, and last week we sent that bill to the President's desk for signature with veto-proof majorities. Today is another big step forward in the final push to ensure that we're building two Virginia with its inclusion in the omnibus spending package. As soon as I was entrusted with the gavel of theSeapowerSubcommittee at the outset of the 116thCongress, I made it a priority to work in-tandem and across the aisle with our colleagues on the House Appropriations Committee to deliver for our U.S. Navy and for eastern Connecticut. I want to thank Congressmen Pete Visclosky and Ken Calvert, the Chairman and Ranking Member of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, for recognizing the national security value that has been placed by Navy leaders in this submarine, and for working to back our full restoration in the final omnibus spending package. Now it's time to move forward and get the bill done. The restoration of this submarine is a victory for the thousands of men and women who work hard every single … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delauro-secures-critical-protections-children-against-e-cigarettes DeLauro Secures Critical Protections for Children against E-Cigarettes in the Federal Spending Package 2020-12-21 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT Rosa DeLauro D000216 delauro.house.gov     legacy DeLauro's legislation, the Preventing Online Sales of E-Cigarettes Act, is included in the fiscal year 2021 omnibus spending bill WASHINGTON, DC Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03), Chair of the Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Subcommittee, secured the historic inclusion of her legislation, the Preventing Online Sales of E-Cigarettes Act, in the fiscal year 2021 spending bill. The legislation would require in-person age verification upon delivery of online purchases of e-cigarette and vapingproducts. The inclusion of these critical protections against the online sale of e-cigarettes to children will prevent countless illnesses and save lives, said Congresswoman DeLauro. This bill's enactment will mark the end of a battle I have fought to close the loophole that allows online e-cigarette vendors to sell to customers without verifying their age at the point of delivery. This is another critical step to ending the youth vaping epidemic, one of the many challenges worsened by the spread of COVID-19. I look forward to this legislation passing both the House and the Senate and to the President enacting these much-needed protections. DeLauro first introduced this legislation in 2015. In October 2019, DeLauro held a hearing in the Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations Subcommittee on the emerging public health threat of e-cigarettes. More information and a video of her hearing can be found here. More information on the fiscal year 2021 omnibus spending bill is available here. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delauro-statement-emergency-coronavirus-relief-agreement DeLauro Statement on Emergency Coronavirus Relief Agreement 2020-12-21 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT Rosa DeLauro D000216 delauro.house.gov     legacy In Connecticut, one in three small businesses have closed their doors and families are desperate for relief, and this relief package finally provides critical help WASHINGTON, DC Appropriations Committee Chair-designate and Chair of the Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Subcommittee Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) issued the following statement on the emergency coronavirus relief agreement: Tonight, we will pass this economic relief package that the American people desperately need. Republicans grudgingly came to the table, and the result is a much smaller package of relief, but we cannot lose sight of the important successes and historic investments Democrats fought to secure. Despite Republicans' intention to block any mandatory paid sick leave, this legislation provides workers with nearly $2 billion to maintain the paid leave option and restores the enhanced federal unemployment insurance bump that provides an additional $300 per week for all workers receiving unemployment benefits. This is not what we proposed but gives people needed help now. This bill provides for hard-working Americans by including direct payments and $13 billion in emergency food assistance, including a temporary boost to the monthly food stamp benefit, a marker I set in March. The rental assistance will certainly help families that are struggling, as well as an extension of the eviction moratorium, but we have already seen a rise in evictions throughout New England, during a time when families need safe and stable housing. Wall Street Journal reported yesterday that about one in three small businesses have closed their doors in Connecticut as a result of the pandemic. This is devastating for Connecticut's families and economy which is why we fought hard to include $284 billion for a second round of PPP loans. Additionally, there is $10 billion for child care, which is woefully inadequate. The child care industry since June has discussed needing $10 billion per month. If we cannot make families feel … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/house-passes-spending-package-includes-delauro-s-labor-health-and-human House Passes Spending Package, Includes DeLauros Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education Appropriations Bill 2020-12-21 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT Rosa DeLauro D000216 delauro.house.gov     legacy Legislation invests in the programs at the center of the country's health and economic crises WASHINGTON, DC Today, the House passed the fiscal year 2021 omnibus spending agreement that includes historic investments secured by Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03), Appropriations Committee Chair-designate and Chair of the Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Subcommittee. This legislation invests in the programs at the center of the country's health and economic crises and addresses labor, health, and education disparities across Connecticut and throughout the country. The pandemic has exhausted our nation's health care industry and exposed gaping holes in our health care infrastructure, said Congresswoman DeLauro. The Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education portion of this bill supports our nation's programs that will be critical to recovering from this pandemic and helping working families thrive. From Early Head Start to Social Security to CDC and NIH, they touch individuals and families throughout their lives. They create opportunity and allow America to realize its values and promise. Paired with the emergency relief included in this package, historic investments in these programs will help our nation build back better. Among the many far-reaching investments, DeLauro's Labor, Health and Human Services, and Education portion of the spending bill provides: Support for working people to find good-paying jobs with $9.4 billion for the Employment Training Administration and robust funding for Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act State Grants and Registered Apprenticeships. This includes $185 million for Registered Apprenticeships and new bill language that requires the participation of equity intermediaries and business and labor industry partner intermediaries. This language is critical to providing opportunities to build a more diverse workforce. This bill not only helps working people find employment but also helps states meet the unprecedented demand for… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://himes.house.gov/coronavirus The American Rescue Plan Act & Other Coronavirus Resources 2020-12-21 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT Jim Himes H001047 himes.house.gov     legacy This page will be updated as the federal government releases guidance concerning the implementation of this bill. Friends, After months of negotiations and compromise, Congress has passed a new round of Coronavirus relief. While this bill will provide much-needed aid to the American people, it is my sincere hope that we are able to provide more assistance in the new year with a new president. At the beginning of the pandemic, my team and I worked to answer many of your frequently asked questions. I hope that this updated guide will help you and your neighbors understand the contents of Congress's latest relief package. Please sign-up for my newsletter, the CDC's Subscription Service, and Governor Lamont's news updates to receive the latest information about COVID-19 and governmental action. Sincerely, Jim Omnibus and Coronavirus Relief Package What assistance is available to individuals and families? Direct Payments Click here for answers regarding the Second Round of Economic Impact Payments Provides for immediate, direct cash payments to lower-and middle-income Americans of $600 for each adult and $600 for each dependent under age 17, beginning to phase out at an annual income of $75,000 for an individual and $150,000 for a household. Eligibility requirements mirror those under the CARES Act (e.g., you must have a work-eligible social security number) Corrects CARES Act language to authorize $600 for each citizen in a mixed-status family. Mixed-status families, where a U.S. citizen files his or her taxes jointly with a non-citizen, were ineligible for Economic Impact Payments under the CARES Act. These families can also now claim the original CARES Act Economic Impact Payment on their 2020 return in 2021. Unemployment Boosts Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation (FPUC) by $300 for 11 weeks. FPUC is a federally funded weekly plus-up that is available to anyone receiving at least $1 of unemployment insurance Extends Pandemic Unemployment Assistance extended … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://himes.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/house-passes-coronavirus-relief-package-himes-support House Passes Coronavirus Relief Package with Himes Support 2020-12-21 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT Jim Himes H001047 himes.house.gov     legacy Washington, DC Today, Congressman Jim Himes (CT-04) voted for the coronavirus relief package that has been the subject of long negotiations between the House and Senate. Previously, the House had passed its own version of a coronavirus relief package, the HEROES Act, on May 15, 220 days ago. If you need assistance with access to unemployment services, stimulus payments, business aid, or any other federal program, please contact Congressman Himes's offices at (202)225-5541 or (203)333-6600 or go online here. It was absolutely necessary to get this compromise done before Congress left for the year, said Himes. Families' suffering and need have only gotten worse as this pandemic has dragged on. The final bill we came away with is not perfect, but it contains vital aid for individuals and small businesses without giving away the store to giant corporations. Notable provisions in the bill include: Economic Impact (Direct) Payments (EIP): Congress included EIP provisions that will provide one time payments of $600 per eligible adult and $600 per eligible dependent under the age of 17 Eligibility for this provision is the same as in the CARES Act: All single taxpayers with an adjusted gross income up to $75,000 filing single or $150,000 filing jointly receive the full benefit. The benefit tapers off until it is completely eliminated for those making more than $99,000 filing single/$198,000 filing jointly at a rate of 5%. Requires a work-eligible social security number. Unlike the CARES Act, mixed-status families, where one spouse is a citizen and the other is not, ARE eligible for payments for each citizen in the family. This change is retroactive, so mixed-status families will be able to claim the original EIP when they file their 2020 tax return in 2021. Unemployment Insurance (UI): The bill includes supplemented unemployment insurance for both gig and non-gig extended for 11 weeks (through March 14th). Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation is extended for 11 weeks (through March 14th) at $300 p… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/ct-delegation-announces-victory-plum-island CT Delegation Announces Victory For Plum Island 2020-12-21 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT John Larson L000557 larson.house.gov     legacy CT DELEGATION ANNOUNCES VICTORY FOR PLUM ISLAND [WASHINGTON, DC] Members of the Connecticut Delegation, including U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Chris Murphy (D-CT) and U.S. Representatives Rosa DeLauro (CT-3), John Larson (CT-1), and Joe Courtney (CT-2), today announced that the omnibus budget package repeals a mandate that be sold and $18.9 million will be allocated for cleanup. Today we can finally and fully celebrate preserving Plum Island. This exquisite environmental treasure has been spared a headlong rush to sell to the highest bidder. We will continue to fight to preserve this special gem from future development. Plum Island is a unique environmental resource that is home to hundreds of species of wildlife and numerous important historical sites that must be preserved for future generations to enjoy. I thank Connecticut's environmental advocates, including Save the Sound and The Nature Conservancy for their tireless work in this effort. I also thank my colleagues from the New York and Connecticut delegations for their partnership in securing this important provision, said Blumenthal. It's taken years of work to get this done, but finally, we've stopped the shortsighted plan to sell Plum Island to the highest bidder. Plum Island is so important, both ecologically and historically, and I'm proud to stand with my colleagues in the Connecticut and New York delegations who have worked tirelessly with me to get this repeal across the finish line, said Murphy. This is a tremendous victory for Plum Island and the people of Connecticut, and it is in large part thanks to the hard work and advocacy of the local groups fighting to protect this ecological treasure. Plum Island is home to a rare natural ecosystem that should never be up for sale to the highest bidder. Congress has an obligation to protect this island and its natural resources. That is why as a leader on the House Appropriations Committee, and now the Chair-elect, I fought to include this language in the fiscal year 2021 spending bill to … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-covid-relief-package-step-forward-more-urgently-needed Larson: COVID Relief Package is a Step Forward, but More is Urgently Needed 2020-12-21 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT John Larson L000557 larson.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. - Today, Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01)voted for thebipartisan COVID relief package and released the following statement: This relief package, while a step forward, should have been passed months ago. House Democrats first passed the Heroes Act in May;at the same time, Majority LeaderMitch McConnellcalled for a pause'and Senate Republicans refused to act until now. More than 315,000 Americans havedied fromCOVID-19.Experts have said if we hadmadealarger investment in testing and tracing, many of these deaths could have been prevented.Millions of Americans are unemployed and many are facing food insecurity.Our state and local governments, including first responders, have been on the frontlines of this pandemicbutare being left out of this relief package.Wecan and we must do more. As I have said before, we cannot get the economy up and running until we conquer the virus.Today's relief package makessignificant investments in,testing and tracing efforts,vaccines and therapeutics, medical suppliesand funding for underserved communities, all of which arecritical to conquering this pandemic. This packageprovides help forthe millions of Americans who are struggling right now.Itstrengthenscritical programs for those who are unemployed by extending and enhancing unemployment insurance and rental assistance. It also offers $600 in direct payments tolow andmoderate incomeAmericans andincludes a $13 billion increase in food assistance programs to help the millions of families facing food insecurity. Thisbillalso includes vital funding for small businesses, including specific funding for arts and cultural programs and smaller businesses whoweren't able to access the initial relief funding. To Stop the Virus and Treat Patients with COVID,the bill includes: Almost $23 billionforvaccines, therapeutics, diagnostics and supplies; More than$22 billion for testing,tracing, and containmentto stop the virus from spreading; Additional $3 billion for hospitals, community health centers, physicians and other providers to t… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-delauro-blumenthal-and-murphy-secure-1355-million-hartford Larson, DeLauro, Blumenthal, and Murphy Secure $135.5 Million for Hartford Courthouse 2020-12-21 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT John Larson L000557 larson.house.gov     legacy DeLauro, Blumenthal, Murphy, and Larson Secure $135.5 Million for Hartford Courthouse WASHINGTON, DC Chair-designate of the House Appropriations Committee Rosa DeLauro (CT-03), U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Chris Murphy (D-CT), and Congressman John Larson (CT-01) today secured $135.5 million for the restoration of the Federal Courthouse in Hartford, Connecticut, in the fiscal year 2021 omnibus spending package. This funding was included after Senate Republicans only included funding for the Federal Courthouse in Chattanooga, Tennessee, despite Hartford ranking first on the Federal Judiciary Courthouse Project Priorities list for the second year in a row. Failure to include funding for Hartford would have been the first time Congress overrode the Judiciary's recommendation. I was proud to work with my colleagues and utilize my position on the Appropriations Committee to protect this funding for the federal courthouse in Hartford, said Congresswoman DeLauro. When it became clear that the Hartford funding was in trouble of receiving nothing because of an egregious and frankly unfair earmark inserted by Senate Republicans, the delegation was able to come together to make it right to ensure Hartford received its fair share. The 57-year-old U.S. District Courthouse in Hartford has simply outlived its sell-by date. There are major structural problems and its design makes providing court security very difficult. A new courthouse will bring judicial civil and criminal operations into the 21st century, said Senator Blumenthal. The Connecticut district court judges and their staff are to be commended for their dedication to ensuring modern, safe courts. The Connecticut Congressional delegation has been united in our support for this funding, bringing this critical improvement one major step closer to fruition. This is a big deal, said Senator Murphy. Hartford needs a new federal courthouse and the bill we passed today includes funding to start that project. The $135 million we secured will create constr… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-year-end-funding-bill-will-support-our-communities-during Larson: Year-End Funding Bill Will Support Our Communities During Pandemic 2020-12-21 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT John Larson L000557 larson.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. - Today, Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01) votedH.R. 133, the FY 2021 omnibus. I'm proud to vote for this funding package that will support our communities during this pandemic.Included in this legislation is funding for 96 F-35Joint Strike Fighters. The manufacturing of the F-35 supports92smalltomediumsuppliersandover sixteen thousandjobsin State of Connecticut. During these tough economic times, this funding will help spur our local economy. Additionally, the package includes vital investments into our local communities. At time when many Americans are facing historic food insecurity, we're providing robust funding increases to food assistance programs. It also makes significant investments in public education and our schools. Notably, this year's bill includes critical legislation to put patients first and end surprise medicalbilling. For too long, patients havebornethe brunt of the cost for seeking emergency medical care or unknowingly seeing an out-of-network provider. This will no longer happen after today's legislation is enacted. Part of this package included my legislation, the Know Your Provider Act, requiring insurance companieskeepup to dateproviderdirectoriesfor theircustomers. Thispackagewill alsoresult in a meaningful increase inrenewableenergy across our country. From extending tax credits that havebeenproven tosupport green energy deployment, to making amassiveinvestment in grid modernization and renewableenergyand storage research, this legislationmeans more jobs and a cleanerenergy infrastructure. Other provisions included inthe bill: Provides$243.2 billion in funding for Department of Veterans Affairs, including $90 billion for medical careand pre-funds additional $94.2 billionforVAmedical programsinthe Fiscal Year 2022. Increase in IRS taxpayer customer services. Increases funding for NationalInstitute ofHealthincluding forresearchonAlzheimers, AIDS/HIV, Downs Syndrome. Increase in funding forthe Center for Disease Controland public health agencies across the country. Increase… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delauro-statement-nationwide-covid-19-vaccine-cutback-direct-result DeLauro Statement on Nationwide COVID-19 Vaccine Cutback, Direct Result of an Inadequate Distribution Plan 2020-12-18 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT Rosa DeLauro D000216 delauro.house.gov     legacy Connecticut is expected to receive about a 13% cut from previous estimates, 12,000 fewer doses WASHINGTON, DC Appropriations Committee Chair-designate and Chair of the Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Subcommittee Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) issued the following statement on reports that many states will be receiving 25-40% fewer coronavirus vaccine doses next week than was originally anticipated: This confusion and disruption to distribution are exactly why I, and so many of my colleagues and public health experts, have been calling for a vaccine distribution plan since the beginning of the pandemic. We knew the vaccine was coming, and with real leadership and organization from the White House, issues like this could have been avoided. States cannot possibly plan to successfully reach all communities if they cannot rely on the federal government for accurate numbers. Connecticut is expected to receive 12,000 fewer doses next week than we originally anticipated which threatens to alter the distribution timeline. An undertaking of this kind requires a plan and clear communication. In addition to continuing to call for a clear plan informed by accurate numbers, I am committed to fighting for the state and local funding needed for our states to quickly and efficiently distribute vaccines to all communities. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-mcconnell-and-senate-republicans-need-accept-deal-let-us-vote Larson: McConnell and Senate Republicans Need to Accept the Deal, Let Us Vote on COVID Relief 2020-12-18 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT John Larson L000557 larson.house.gov     legacy Washington, DC - Today, Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01) released the following statement on COVID relief negotiations: Unemployment benefits run out in less than a week, while millions of Americans face food insecurity this holiday season. Meanwhile, Mitch McConnell and Senate Republicans keep delaying COVID relief negotiations. Americans have been waiting for another COVID relief package since March. They need help and they need it now. Mitch McConnell and Senate Republicans need to do what's right for once and agree to the bipartisan deal without attaching a poison pill and let us vote! ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delauro-welcomes-new-members-house-appropriations-committee-117th DeLauro Welcomes New Members of the House Appropriations Committee for the 117th Congress 2020-12-17 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT Rosa DeLauro D000216 delauro.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC Chair-designate Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) issued the following statement welcoming the new appointments to the House Appropriations Committee for the 117th Congress, Congressman Adriano Espaillat (NY-13), Congressman Josh Harder (CA-10), Congresswoman Susie Lee (NV-03), Congressman David Trone (MD-06), Congresswoman Lauren Underwood (IL-14), and Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton (VA-10): We have our work cut out for us in the 117th Congress, and I am confident my colleagues, Representatives Espaillat, Harder, Lee, Trone, Underwood, and Wexton, are up to the task. Each of them has a proven track record of never shying away from a fight on behalf of hard-working families. Their strong voices and unwavering commitment to creating opportunities will be an invaluable addition to the Appropriations Committee. I look forward to working with them in the years to come and know that our partnerships will give us the opportunity to give every person a chance at a better life. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://himes.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-jim-himes-announces-722653-assistance-firefighters-grants Congressman Jim Himes announces $722,653 in Assistance to Firefighters Grants for Southwest Connecticut Fire Departments 2020-12-17 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT Jim Himes H001047 himes.house.gov     legacy Today, Congressman Jim Himes (CT-04) announced thatfourfire departments in Southwest Connecticutwill receiveAssistance To Firefighters Grants (AFG) totaling$722,654fromthe Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The grants, awarded totheBridgeport,Fairfield,Oxford, andSheltonFire Departments, will ensure Southwest Connecticutfiredepartments have the training and resources they need to provide life-saving services. Public investment in our fire departments willimprovethe safety of our community for years to come, said Congressman Jim Himes. The brave men and women who staff our fire departments deserve the most up-to-date equipment and training to save lives and keep themselves safe. I'm happy to see federal funding protecting the life and safety of Southwest Connecticut residents. The department has seen record turnover and many of our newer Officers (Lieutenants and Captains) are new in their role, said ChiefThode,Fire Chief of the Bridgeport Fire Department.This grant will allow us to train our officers in everything from Firefighter safety, leadership, management skills even report writing. The continued support and advocacy of Congressman Himes allows Bridgeport Firefighters access to some of the top levels of training that they would not normally have access to. Along with Sen Blumenthal and Murphy, the Connecticut Fire Service is truly fortunate to have such an active and effective Federal Delegation. The Fire Act Grant for these Automatic External Defibrillators and Cardiac Compression Devicesensures that wherever you are in Fairfield,you will never be more that 4 minutesaway from the best pre hospital care possible, said Denis McCarthy, Fire Chief of the Fairfield Fire Department.Our Firefighters are trained and equipped to provide the absolute best chance of a positive outcome for those who suffer a trauma or medical emergency. We are grateful to Congressman Himes for his continued support of the Fire Act Grant program. In this case that support translates to saving lives. The personal protective equ… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://himes.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/house-passes-himes-bill-designate-weir-farm-national-historical-park House Passes Himes Bill to Designate Weir Farm as National Historical Park 2020-12-17 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT Jim Himes H001047 himes.house.gov     legacy Washington, DC Today, the United States House of Representatives passed a bill authored by Congressman Jim Himes (CT-04) that would change the designation of Weir Farm in Wilton and Ridgefield from a National Historical Site to a National Historical Park. The change will better represent Weir's complex cultural, natural and recreational offerings to the public. This prestigious status will also reflect the increased visitation, collaboration with partners, and public programming since the park's original designation. Walking through Weir Farm in any season is a quintessentially Connecticut experience, said Himes. It's a beautiful, extensive site that gives visitors perspective into an important period in American art, as well as a much-needed space to reconnect with our natural world. "The Friends of Weir Farm are proud to be part of the initiative, along with the Weir Farm Art Alliance, and Congressman Himes, to propose the redesignation in the House of Representatives to Weir Farm National Historical Park, said Liz Castagna, Vice President of Friends of Weir Farm. We believe that the passage of the bill for this new name truly represents the wide range of cultural, historical and recreational resources that the park offers to the public." The Weir Farm National Historical Site Establishment Act of 1990, which made the farm Connecticut's first national park, focused on preserving a limited part of the Weir property. Now, the vast holdings include more than 15 buildings spread out over nearly 75 acres including a vast collection of American art, orchards and landscapes, trails, gardens, miles of stone walls, and Weir Pond. Since its designation as a Historic Site, many of the park's landscapes and resources have been rehabilitated and restored to their original state, which inspired artists like Julian Alden Weir, Mahonri Mackintosh Young, and Charles Sperry Andrews. While we work on large government funding bills and coronavirus relief efforts in Congress, we must never forget to sustain the arts, protect our na… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-davis-demand-social-security-administration-forgive-extra Larson, Davis Demand Social Security Administration Forgive Extra Benefits Paid Due to COVID-19 2020-12-17 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT John Larson L000557 larson.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. Today, House Ways and Means Social Security Subcommittee Chairman John B. Larson (D-CT) and Worker and Family Support Subcommittee Chairman Danny K. Davis (D-IL) sent a letter to Social Security Administration (SSA) Commissioner Andrew Saul demanding that SSA forgive repayment of extra benefits paid to Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) beneficiaries due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This fall, SSA began notifying beneficiaries about these extra benefit payments, which were paid through no fault of their own. SSA also set up a limited process for some beneficiaries to have repayment of their COVID-19 overpayments forgiven. However there have been widespread reports that many beneficiaries have been unable to access even this limited relief. With the clock ticking, we urge SSA to immediately extend and expand the streamlined waiver process, providing all beneficiaries with immediate, automatic relief from COVID-19 overpayments. We also request that you provide us with detailed information on SSA's actions and any relief that has been provided, to date, wrote Larson and Davis. It is unfair and unjust for SSA to allow any hurdles to prevent beneficiaries from accessing relief from these COVID-19 overpayments, continued Larson and Davis. We urge SSA to immediately provide automatic relief for all beneficiaries with a COVID-19 overpayment, regardless of whether or not they apply for relief. The full letter can be viewed here. A prior letter from Ways and Means Committee Democratic leaders can be viewed here. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/courtney-statement-electoral-college-vote-affirm-joe-biden-46th Courtney Statement on Electoral College Vote to Affirm Joe Biden as the 46th President of the United States 2020-12-16 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT Joe Courtney C001069 courtney.house.gov     legacy VERNON, CT Rep. Joe Courtney (CT-02) issuedthe following statement this evening afterelectors inall fifty states had officiallycast their ballotsin theformal Electoral College process,affirming Joe Biden's election as the 46thPresident of the United States. Tonight's finalvotebyElectoral College membersfrom across the U.S. confirms, as mandated by the U.S. Constitution, that Joe Biden has been elected the 46thPresident of the United States,said Courtney.In the remaining days of the 117thCongress we should work together to help a smooth transition to President-elect Biden as past Congresses have doneforthe good of the country. In the next few days we will work to enact new COVID-19 aidforthe millions of Americans whose health and safety are still in dire risk of illness and financial harm.Congratulationsonce again toPresident-electJoe Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harrisnow that the people have spoken, let's get to work. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/house-passed-va-improvement-bill-includes-provision-advance-courtney-0 House-Passed VA Improvement Bill Includes Provision to Advance Courtney Effort on Agent Orange Fairness, Now Heads to White House for Signature 2020-12-16 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT Joe Courtney C001069 courtney.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC Today, Congressman Joe Courtney (CT-02) and the House of Representatives votedto passH.R. 7105, theVeterans Health Care and Benefits Improvement Act. The bipartisanbillincludes aprovision thatwillmove the ball forwardandcontribute to aneffortRep. Courtney has worked for years toadvancethrough theAgent Orange Fairness Act(H.R.566)by mandating a Government Accountability Office (GAO) report on repealing the onerous manifestation requirementsfrom certain diseases which the VA has linked to Agent Orange exposure.Under current law, veterans must demonstrate that the symptoms of certain diseases developed within just a year of exposure in order to receive the care and compensation they deserve. Rep. Courtney's billwould eliminatethese unfair requirementsandgrantpresumptivebenefits toall servicemembers whocame into contact with this herbicide,andH.R. 7105will help to support that effort through a mandated GAO report.H.R. 7105passed the House today byvoice vote, and will now be sent to the President's desk for signature. Click hereto watch Rep. Courtney's full remarks ahead of today's vote Veterans are required to show that these illnesses manifested themselves within one year of exposure in order to get VA help,said Courtney, ahead of today's vote.Only one problemfifty years ago, when service members were handling this poison, the U.S. government never disclosed how dangerous it was. When it's toxicity was finally recognized decades later, the one-year clock to prove manifestation had long expired. It is the ultimate Catch-22. Section 2011 would not exist but for the tireless work of Vietnam vet Gerry Wright of Andover, Connecticut who has crisscrossed America, rounding up support for abolishing this rule. No lobbyists, no super PACs, just old-fashioned citizen involvement.CongratulationsGerryyou are a true patriot. I urge support of this bill. Rep. Courtneyoriginallyintroduced the Agent Orange Exposure Fairness Act in July 2018 after working with Gerry Wright, a Vietnam veteran from Andover, Connecti… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delauro-statement-report-serious-concerns-mexican-labor-reforms DeLauro Statement on Report of Serious Concerns with Mexican Labor Reforms 2020-12-16 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT Rosa DeLauro D000216 delauro.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03), Chair-elect of the House Appropriations Committee and a key member of Speaker Pelosi's Trade Working Group, issued the following statement on the Independent Mexico Labor Expert Board's (IMLEB) first report that raises concerns with Mexican labor practices: The creation of this first interim report from IMLEB, as required by the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement, represents an important step of monitoring and evaluating the implementation of Mexico's labor reform and compliance with its labor obligations. The report highlights much of what we already know to be serious issues with the treatment of workers in Mexico and raises concerns that much of what was agreed upon under USMCA, such as the rights of Mexico's workers to unionize and bargain without fear of retaliation, has yet to be implemented. Passage of the USMCA was just a small step in raising the standard of living and advancing worker's rights in Mexico. The real work in implementation and oversight must continue. The United States will continue to play a vital role to ensure leaders in Mexico are taking the necessary steps to implement and comply with labor law reforms. I look forward to working closely with Katherine Tai and the Biden-Harris Administration to conduct oversight and ensure Mexico upholds its end of the bargain. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/courtney-statement-electoral-college-vote-affirm-joe-biden-46th-0 Courtney Statement on Electoral College Vote to Affirm Joe Biden as the 46th President of the United States 2020-12-14 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT Joe Courtney C001069 courtney.house.gov     legacy VERNON, CT Rep. Joe Courtney (CT-02) issuedthe following statement this evening afterelectors inall fifty states had officiallycast their ballotsin theformal Electoral College process,affirming Joe Biden's election as the 46thPresident of the United States. Tonight's finalvotebyElectoral College membersfrom across the U.S. confirms, as mandated by the U.S. Constitution, that Joe Biden has been elected the 46thPresident of the United States,said Courtney.In the remaining days of the 117thCongress we should work together to help a smooth transition to President-elect Biden as past Congresses have doneforthe good of the country. In the next few days we will work to enact new COVID-19 aidforthe millions of Americans whose health and safety are still in dire risk of illness and financial harm.Congratulationsonce again toPresident-electJoe Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harrisnow that the people have spoken, let's get to work. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://himes.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-himes-announces-500000-grant-oxford-prevent-school-shootings Congressman Himes announces $500,000 grant to Oxford to prevent school shootings and improve campus security 2020-12-14 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT Jim Himes H001047 himes.house.gov     legacy Today, Congressman Jim Himes (CT-04) announced that the Town of Oxford will receive a $500,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Justice, Community Oriented Policing Services. The grant will create aSecurity Operations Center with three personnel monitoring the four campusesduring schools hours.Additionally, the grant will also allow fora mass notification system that will allow schools to lockdown in seconds. After the heartbreaking mass shootings in Newtown, Parkland, SantaFe and others,wemust take additional security measuresto keep our children safe, said Congressman Jim Himes. These new security protocols will keepintrudersfrom enteringany of the four Oxford schools. Additional resources for monitoring school campuses will also prevent bullying or illegal activitiesfrom taking place on campus. I'mglad federaldollars are going towardskeep Oxford students safe. "I thank the Oxford Board of Education, Board of Finance, Board of Selectman, and of course Congressman Himes for prompt action to address this security upgrade to protect our school children. We will all continue to be vigilant to ensure and enhance school safety," saidSelectman George Temple. According to the Town of Oxford, these funds will be used for their school security project, which will include the implementation of a mass notification system as well as the development of a Security Operations Center. These enhancements, which complement additional ongoing security measures, will improve system-wide communication and monitoring capabilities within the Oxford school system. Students, parents, faculty, community leaders, and first responders will benefit from real-time information in emergency situations. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-applauds-agreement-end-surprise-medical-billing Larson Applauds Agreement to End Surprise Medical Billing 2020-12-14 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT John Larson L000557 larson.house.gov     legacy Hartford, CT Today, Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01) applauded the announcement that a bipartisan, bicameral agreement has been reached to end surprise medical billing, putting patients first. The No Surprises Act will end surprise medical billing that millions of Americans experience every year after receiving unexpected out-of-network medical care. Approximately one in six hospital visits result in a surprise medical bill. This bipartisan legislation will stop that from happening and put patients first. Congress now must take swift action and put an end to surprise billing, said Larson. The bipartisan, bicameral agreement protects patients and establishes a fair payment dispute resolution process including: Holds patients harmless from surprise medical bills, including from air ambulance providers, by ensuring they are only responsible for their in-network cost-sharing amounts, including deductibles, in both emergency situations and certain non-emergency situations where patients do not have the ability to choose an in-network provider. Prohibits certain out-of-network providers from balance billing patients unless the provider gives the patient notice of their network status and an estimate of charges 72 hours prior to receiving out-of-network services and the patient provides consent to receive out-of-network care. Creates a framework that takes patients out of the middle, and allows health care providers and insurers to resolve payment disputes without involving the patient. Under the agreement, insurers will make a payment to the provider that is determined either through negotiation between the parties or an independent dispute resolution (IDR) process. There is no minimum payment threshold to enter IDR, and claims may be batched together to ease administrative burdens. If the parties choose to utilize the IDR process, both parties would each submit an offer to the independent arbiter. When choosing between the two offers the arbiter is required to consider the median in-network rate, information related… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-scheduler-sarah-gianni-named-unsung-hero-capitol-hill Larson Scheduler, Sarah Gianni, Named Unsung Hero of Capitol Hill 2020-12-14 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT John Larson L000557 larson.house.gov     legacy Hartford, CT Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01) applauded the announcement that his Washington D.C. Scheduler and Executive Assistant and West Hartford native, Sarah Gianni, was named an Unsung Hero of Capitol Hill by the Ripon Society and Franklin Center for Global Policy Exchange. Sarah Gianni goes above and beyond each and every day for our office and the people of Connecticut's First District. She truly is an Unsung Hero of Capitol Hill and this is a well-deserved recognition. I'm very proud of all that Sarah has accomplished and grateful to have her as a part of our team, Larson. It is an honor to be recognized by the Ripon Society and Franklin Center, especially during such an unprecedented year. I am truly grateful for the opportunity to serve my home district, and I look forward to the work that we will continue to accomplish in the 117th Congress, said Gianni. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/courtney-announces-more-18-million-federal-funding-eastern-connecticut Courtney Announces more than $1.8 Million in Federal Funding for Eastern Connecticut Drug Free Communities and Addiction Intervention Programs 2020-12-11 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT Joe Courtney C001069 courtney.house.gov     legacy NORWICH, CT Today, Congressman Joe Courtney (CT-02) announced that thefederalOffice of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) will award a round offederal grants totaling $1,875,000tosupport addiction prevention and recoveryeffortsin Colchester, East Hampton, Ledyard, and Old Lyme.The grant awards were dispersed through ONDCP's Drug Free CommunitiesSupportprogram, and will provide continuingfunding to strengthen infrastructure among local partners to create and sustain a reduction in local youth substance abuse. Communities in eastern Connecticut are facing a collision of epidemics right now,said Congressman Courtney.The opioid epidemic has hurt so many families in our region, and it'sfed on the strained resources and increased isolationduring COVID.These organizations are working to save livestheirserviceis essential, they'vecontinued to careforpeople in our communities even while resources have grown more and more strained, and thisnew funding will helpsupport their mission.I was glad my office could help support applicationsforthese awards, andI'll keep working across the aisle to secure more COVID-19 relief aidforthe families, workers, and small businesses in eastern Connecticut who need it. This is an outstanding opportunityforour community, and it is reflective of the important work the Colchester Youth First Coalition has committed to carrying out,said Colchester First Selectman Mary Bylone.It shows that despite the global pandemic, they are focused on meeting the needs of our youth. We are so excited to see the work they will be able to do with this type of funding. Good newsforthe Town, the Prevention Partnership and, most important, the community,said Easthampton Town Manager David Cox. I am honored to serve on the East Hampton Prevention Partnership as co-chair and lookforward to our future. We will make positive decisions regarding the funding of this grant, keeping our youth population informed about the use of drugs and alcohol. This federal grant will ensure our programming, as we work together … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-applauds-biden-nomination-katherine-tai-united-states-trade Larson Applauds Biden Nomination of Katherine Tai for United States Trade Representative 2020-12-11 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT John Larson L000557 larson.house.gov     legacy Hartford, CT Today, Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01) applauded President-elect Biden's nomination of Katherine Tai for the United States Trade Representative. Katherine Tai is an outstanding choice by President-elect Biden for the United States Trade Representative. Having worked with her on the Ways and Means Committee and during the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement negotiations, I've seen first-hand the skillset, experience, and values she will bring to the job. With Chairman Neal, Ms. Tai helped craft a new trade agreement that's better for working Americans. She is highly respected on both sides of the aisle and is the right person to implement the Biden Administration's pro-worker trade agenda, said Larson. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/courtney-larson-introduce-pandemic-supplies-production-act COURTNEY, LARSON, INTRODUCE THE PANDEMIC SUPPLIES PRODUCTION ACT 2020-12-10 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT Joe Courtney C001069 courtney.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. TodayReps. John B. Larson (CT-01) and Joe Courtney (CT-02)introduced thePandemic Supplies Production Actto nationalize the production and distribution of essential supplies to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. As we fight through this second surge of COVID-19 we need to make sure we have the supplies to combat the virus. The Pandemic Supplies Production Act would not only boost production of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), tests, therapeutics and the vaccine when its available, but it will also centralize the distribution of these supplies by utilizing the Defense Logistics Agency. We need national leadership on this, not 50 different solutions. More than 280,000 Americans have already died from this virus, including more than 5,000 citizens of Connecticut. As experts have stated, having a national testing and equipment plan earlier in the pandemic could have prevented many deaths. We cannot wait any longer, we have to act now, saidRep.Larson. There has been spectacular progress made in the effort to develop a vaccine against COVID-19, but we need to make sure our supply chain is ready to deploy a vaccineimmediately. If we don't have the support network to help distribute vaccines across the country, or to ramp up production of critical PPE and hospital supplies, then we're not going to be ready,said Rep. Courtney. We need the harness the strength of the federal government to help establish that support network and defeat the virus, and Rep. Larson has helped lead the way in kicking our federal response into gear. The Pandemic Supplies Production Act would finally beef up the role of the federal government in ramping up supplies production, and in overcoming serious logistical challenges in delivering vaccines and supplies nationwide. I'm proud to join Rep. Larson in this important effort to help our communities overcome COVID-19. Larson and Courtney previouslyannouncedthe legislation in November. Reps. Jim Himes (CT-04) and Jahana Hayes (CT-05) also cosponsored the legislation. The Pandemic Su… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delauro-announces-more-507-million-sikorsky-aircraft-corporation DeLauro Announces More Than $507 Million for Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation 2020-12-10 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT Rosa DeLauro D000216 delauro.house.gov     legacy Full Funding for Program Year 5 of the Blackhawk Multi-Year IX Program Work will be Performed in Stratford, Keeping Jobs in Connecticut STRATFORD, CT Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03), House Appropriations Committee Chair-designate, today announced Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation in Stratford, Connecticut, has been awarded $507,036,949 through the Department of the Army for production, engineering, and service of the Blackhawk. Blackhawk helicopters play a critical role in helping the men and women of our armed services carry out their duties safely, said Congresswoman DeLauro. I am thrilled that this additional funding will continue the construction of the Blackhawk in our backyard, at Lockheed Sikorsky, home of the world's best helicopters. As I take on my new role as Chair of the full Appropriations Committee in the 117th Congress, I will continue to fight to create jobs in Connecticut's Third Congressional District and invest in our local economy. This modification to an existing contract provides full funding of Program Year 5 of the Blackhawk Multi-Year IX Program bringing the cumulative total of this contract to $6,280,755,015. The work from this contact will be performed in Stratford, Connecticut. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delauro-statement-nomination-katherine-tai-us-trade-representative DeLauro Statement on the Nomination of Katherine Tai as U.S. Trade Representative 2020-12-10 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT Rosa DeLauro D000216 delauro.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) issued the following statement on Katherine Tai's nomination as U.S. Trade Representative: Katherine Tai is a friend and a trusted advisor. As a member of Speaker Pelosi's USMCA Trade Working Group, Katherine Tai and I worked hand in hand to re-negotiate the new NAFTA alongside my colleagues. We traveled to Mexico in July 2019 to meet with Mexican President Lpez Obrador to discuss the importance of raising labor standards and enforcement provisions in any new agreement that would support and protect worker's rights. We met with workers in San Luis Potosi to hear about workplace conditions and the challenges to democratically unionizing in Mexico. We had tough conversations and negotiations with the outgoing administration, and Katherine was an invaluable asset on every issue under consideration, every step of the way. Through all the battles we've fought, I've witnessed firsthand Katherine's strength, integrity, and commitment to creating better lives for working families. I am grateful to President-elect Biden and Vice President-elect Harris for this appointment. Katherine Tai's nomination will be the first step toward ensuring our trade agreements protect workers, the environment, and the creation of American jobs. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/house-passes-bill-ensure-post-kidney-transplant-medication-covered House Passes Bill to Ensure Post-Kidney Transplant Medication is Covered by Medicare 2020-12-10 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT John Larson L000557 larson.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. This week the House passed H.R. 2477, the Beneficiary Enrollment Notification and Eligibility Simplification (BENES) Act of 2019. Larson led the passage of the bill on the House floor. The BENES Act included H.R. 5534, Immunosuppressive Drug Coverage for Kidney Transplant Patients Act, which extends Medicare coverage of essential immunosuppressant drugs for kidney transplant patients. The legislation was supported by health care advocates. Click here to see Larson's remarks. I'm proud to have supported the BENES Act to ensure kidney transplant patients have access to the immunosuppressant drugs that they need. I have heard from the Hartford Hospital Kidney Transplant Group and the National Kidney Foundation how vitally important this legislation is and am so pleased it was included in the BENES Act, said Larson. As a Transplant Recipient, I appreciate Representative Larson's support of extending coverage of immunosuppressive drugs for the life of a kidney transplant. I applaud the House for passing this important bill, because kidney patients like me should not have to choose between paying the rent or keeping their kidney. This bill will help many patients, and I am thankful for its passage, said Armand Halter, a local National Kidney Foundation Advocate. After many years of tireless advocacy on behalf of kidney patients, NKF is proud that the US House of Representatives has extended coverage of immunosuppressive drugs for the life of a kidney transplant. This bill will ensure that kidney patients do not need to choose between rent, food, and keeping their kidney, and will help ensure increased availability of organs for others in need of a transplant. This is a great day for the kidney community, and we are thankful to our Congressional champions for their support and prioritization of this critical legislation, Kevin Longino, CEO, National Kidney Foundation and a kidney transplant patient. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-courtney-introduce-pandemic-supplies-production-act Larson, Courtney Introduce the Pandemic Supplies Production Act 2020-12-10 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT John Larson L000557 larson.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. Today Reps. John B. Larson (CT-01) and Joe Courtney (CT-02) introduced the Pandemic Supplies Production Act to nationalize the production and distribution of essential supplies to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. As we fight through this second surge of COVID-19 we need to make sure we have the supplies to combat the virus. The Pandemic Supplies Production Act would not only boost production of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), tests, therapeutics and the vaccine when its available, but it will also centralize the distribution of these supplies by utilizing the Defense Logistics Agency. We need national leadership on this, not 50 different solutions. More than 280,000 Americans have already died from this virus, including more than 5,000 citizens of Connecticut. As experts have stated, having a national testing and equipment plan earlier in the pandemic could have prevented many deaths. We cannot wait any longer, we have to act now, said Rep. Larson. There has been spectacular progress made in the effort to develop a vaccine against COVID-19, but we need to make sure our supply chain is ready to deploy a vaccine immediately. If we don't have the support network to help distribute vaccines across the country, or to ramp up production of critical PPE and hospital supplies, then we're not going to be ready, said Rep. Courtney. We need the harness the strength of the federal government to help establish that support network and defeat the virus, and Rep. Larson has helped lead the way in kicking our federal response into gear. The Pandemic Supplies Production Act would finally beef up the role of the federal government in ramping up supplies production, and in overcoming serious logistical challenges in delivering vaccines and supplies nationwide. I'm proud to join Rep. Larson in this important effort to help our communities overcome COVID-19. Larson and Courtney previously announced the legislation in November. Reps. Jim Himes (CT-04) and Jahana Hayes (CT-05) also cosponsored the legislation. The P… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delauro-statement-shooting-waterbury-police-officer DeLauro Statement on the Shooting of a Waterbury Police Officer 2020-12-09 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT Rosa DeLauro D000216 delauro.house.gov     legacy WATERBURY, C.T. Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) issued the following statement after a Waterbury police officer was shot in the chest during a stolen motor vehicle investigation: Every day, our police officers put on their uniforms knowing they are risking their lives. I am saddened by the shooting of a Waterbury police officer yesterday and humbled by his sacrifice and service to the community. I am relieved to hear that the police officer is in stable condition and has been released from the hospital. I continue to pray for his full and speedy recovery and for his family and friends as they heal from this trauma. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://himes.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/house-passes-national-defense-authorization-himes-support House Passes National Defense Authorization with Himes Support 2020-12-09 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT Jim Himes H001047 himes.house.gov     legacy Washington, DC Today, the United States House of Representatives passed the conference report accompanying the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The NDAA funds defense and related programs and is usually one of the largest pieces of legislation that Congress passes each year. This year, the bill includes $732 billion in discretionary spending for our national defense for FY 2021, including approximately $69 billion for Overseas Contingency Operations (OCO). Providing funding for our troops and our national defense is one of our most important responsibilities in Congress, said Congressman Jim Himes (CT-04). This bill ensures the security of Americans, provides the investments in innovation and industry to keep usahead of our rivals, and supports Connecticut workers. Finally, we honor our ideals by making our armed forces more diverse, more responsible to our veterans and soldiers, and more able to face future threats. Himes sponsored an amendment that was included in the bill that would increase Congressional oversight of foreign nationals investing in the United States. National security oversight is one of Congress's most essential functions, said Himes. Defending against financial incursions is essential because any vulnerability can be exploited. This bipartisan amendment tightens our oversight mechanisms and closes loopholes, showing that Congress is acting in comprehensive defense of national interests. The NDAA also contains significant funds for Connecticut-based companies, employing thousands of workers. This includes: $8.7 billion for the procurement of 93 F-35 Joint Strike Fighters. $898 million for procurement of 60 UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters built by Sikorsky. $800 million for procurement of 7 new CH-53K Marine heavy-lift helicopters built by Sikorsky. $909 million for procurement of 16 HH-60W Air Force search and rescue helicopters built by Sikorsky. $589 million for procurement of 5 VH-92A aircraft, which will be the next-generation presidential helicopter. $6.8 billion for the Vir… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-ways-and-means-democrats-find-trump-administration-s-approach Larson, Ways and Means Democrats Find Trump Administrations Approach to Ecuador Negotiations Deeply Troubling 2020-12-09 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT John Larson L000557 larson.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC Today, Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01) and Ways and Means Democrats, led by Committee Chairman Richard E. Neal (D-MA) and Ways and Means Trade Subcommittee Chairman Earl Blumenauer (D-OR), raised concerns to U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) Robert E. Lighthizer regarding the Trump Administration's hasty trade negotiations with Ecuador and failure to consult with Congress as part of that process. Yesterday, Ambassador Lighthizer signed a new Protocol on Trade Rules and Transparency, updating the U.S.- Ecuador Trade and Investment Council Agreement. Though the Ways and Means members expressed their support for active engagement with Ecuador, they noted that they found the timing, speed, and manner of the Administration's approach to be deeply troubling. On November 19, USTR issued a statement outlining the United States and Ecuador's intention to conclude a negotiation regarding certain trade rules and transparency before the end of this year, wrote the lawmakers. These negotiations appear to have only recently been initiated, yet you concluded an agreement with your Ecuadorian counterparts yesterday, December 8. Thus, nearly the whole negotiation, if not its entirety, was conducted after the U.S. presidential election occurred and in less than two months. The members acknowledged that Ecuador is an important trading partner of the United States and is a key economic, diplomatic, and strategic actor in Latin America, but stressed that proactive work with the nation must be deliberative, thoughtful, and take into account the wide range of bilateral issues between the countries and the priorities of the U.S. government. Specific issues of concern the Ways and Means Democrats raised in their letter include Ecuador's: Long history of deforestation and engaging in harmful fishing practices, including illegal, unreported or unregulated fishing activities; Ineffective enforcement of labor rights to freedom of association and collective bargaining; Over-dependence on China, including $5 billion in debt owed … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/final-2021-ndaa-nears-completion-house-votes-pass-bipartisan-ndaa Final 2021 NDAA Nears Completion as House Votes to Pass Bipartisan NDAA Conference Report 2020-12-08 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT Joe Courtney C001069 courtney.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC Congressman Joe Courtney (CT-02), Chairman of the House Armed Services Subcommittee onSeapowerand Projection Forces,made the following statement today after the House voted in overwhelming bipartisan fashion to pass theconference report to accompany theFiscal Year 2021 National Defense Authorization Act. Courtney wasa core conferee appointed to the committee responsible for negotiating the final bill, andledtheSeapowerand Projection ForcesSubcommitteeinsecuring some of the final package's most importantprovisions.The House passed the final conferenced version of the NDAA today by a vote of 335-78-1. The FY21 NDAA conference report provides support forRep.Courtney'sbipartisan effort to restore full funding for the construction of the second Virginia-class submarinea vessel that the Navy listed as itsmost important unfunded priorityin 2021and includes many other important provisions. The final, conferenced NDAA also includes Rep. Courtney's amendmentstosupport academic partnerships for undersea research like those at UConn,to authorize $50 million for the DOD supplementalImpactAidProgram which supports public school districts like Groton and Ledyard, to prioritize working with U.S. allies to protectcritical materials, and much more. Today,the House voted to seal the deal. Thefinal negotiated version of the 2021 NDAA includes theSeapowerSubcommittee's year-long effort tobuck the Trump Budget andfully restoreconstruction of the second Virginia-class submarine, itsets course onthedecades-longjourney to see the new Columbia-class program through to completion,and it providessteadfastsupport to our men and women in uniform and to eastern Connecticut's manufacturing sector,said Congressman Courtney.This isa strong, bipartisanconference report,it's embedded with some of the most important priorities of theSeapowerSubcommittee, andthe House came togethertodayto pass thefinalconferencereportin a bipartisan landslide. As Iget readyto close out myfirst termas Chairman of theSeapowerSubcommittee, I'mparticularl… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/chairwoman-delauro-statement-hearing-hyde-amendment-impact-women-0 Chairwoman DeLauro Statement at Hearing on Hyde Amendment, The Impact on Women Seeking an Abortion but are Denied Because of an Inability to Pay 2020-12-08 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT Rosa DeLauro D000216 delauro.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03), Chair of the Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Subcommittee, delivered the following remarks at the Subcommittee's hearing examining the impact of the Hyde Amendment on women's rights andeconomic security: The subcommittee will come to order. Good morning. Welcome to our witnesses. Today, we are going to examine the impact on women seeking an abortion but are denied because of an inability to pay. Roe vs. Wade is the law of the land, yet, for too long some women in this country have been denied their right to an abortion. The Hyde amendment is a discriminatory policy. For more than 40 years, it has been routinely extended every year as a legislative rider but the time has come in this current moment to reckon with the norm, with the status quo, and view it through the lens of how it impacts communities of color. Connecticut's Medicaid program has covered abortion services using state funding since 1986 based on a Connecticut Superior Court decision. To date, that decision has never been appealed. Eight other states provide funding for abortion pursuant to a court order, while seven fund abortions voluntarily all using state dollars. However, thirty-three states and the District of Columbia deny state funding to women seeking access to abortion. As a result, the millions of economically insecure women in these states are hostage to their geography. For the women in these states covered by Medicaid, the Hyde amendment has a tremendous impact on their economic, mental, and physical well-being. We know that without insurance coverage of abortion, a legal healthcare procedure, they face costs of more than $500 on average but can exceed $1,000 dollars depending on where they live and the type of abortion. This does not include out-of-pocket expenses like childcare, time off from work, and travel. These costs are prohibitive for too many women. One study found even in a state like California that uses its own funds to provide… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/chairwoman-delauro-statement-hearing-hyde-amendment-impact-women-seeking Chairwoman DeLauro Statement at Hearing on Hyde Amendment, The Impact on Women Seeking an Abortion but are Denied Because of an Inability to Pay 2020-12-08 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT Rosa DeLauro D000216 delauro.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03), Chair of the Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Subcommittee, delivered the following remarks at the Subcommittee's hearing examining the impact of the Hyde Amendment on women's rights andeconomic security: The subcommittee will come to order. Good morning. Welcome to our witnesses. Today, we are going to examine the impact on women seeking an abortion but are denied because of an inability to pay. Roe vs. Wade is the law of the land, yet, for too long some women in this country have been denied their right to an abortion. The Hyde amendment is a discriminatory policy. For more than 40 years, it has been routinely extended every year as a legislative rider but the time has come in this current moment to reckon with the norm, with the status quo, and view it through the lens of how it impacts communities of color. Connecticut's Medicaid program has covered abortion services using state funding since 1986 based on a Connecticut Superior Court decision. To date, that decision has never been appealed. Eight other states provide funding for abortion pursuant to a court order, while seven fund abortions voluntarily all using state dollars. However, thirty-three states and the District of Columbia deny state funding to women seeking access to abortion. As a result, the millions of economically insecure women in these states are hostage to their geography. For the women in these states covered by Medicaid, the Hyde amendment has a tremendous impact on their economic, mental, and physical well-being. We know that without insurance coverage of abortion, a legal healthcare procedure, they face costs of more than $500 on average but can exceed $1,000 dollars depending on where they live and the type of abortion. This does not include out-of-pocket expenses like childcare, time off from work, and travel. These costs are prohibitive for too many women. One study found even in a state like California that uses its own funds to provide… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delauro-health-appropriations-subcommittee-examine-hyde-amendment-s DeLauro, Health Appropriations Subcommittee Examine Hyde Amendments Impact on Womens Rights and Economic Security 2020-12-08 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT Rosa DeLauro D000216 delauro.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03), Chair of the Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Subcommittee, held a hearing today to examine the Hyde Amendment, a legislative rider originally included in the Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies spending bill in fiscal year 1976. The Hyde Amendment denies Medicaid coverage on abortion. Through the Subcommittee Members' questions and witness testimony, the hearing, titled The Impact on Women Seeking an Abortion but are Denied Because of an Inability to Pay, shed light on how the Hyde Amendment has been used to deny coverage for federal employees and their dependents, military service members, Native Americans, Peace Corps volunteers, immigrants, and residents of Washington, D.C. The harm of this denial of coverage falls hardest on people struggling financially, who are more likely to be women of color, young women, immigrants, and LGBTQ people. The Hyde Amendment is a discriminatory policy, said Congresswoman DeLauro. For more than 40 years, it has been routinely extended every year as a legislative rider but the time has come in this current moment to reckon with the norm, with the status quo, and view it through the lens of how it impacts communities of color. Now is the time to ensure that women of color and all women have access to the reproductive health they deserve. I thank my colleagues and our witnesses for joining me in holding this hearing and taking this critical first step in ending the inclusion of this policy in federal spending legislation. I commend Chair DeLauro for holding this hearing to discuss the harmful impact of the Hyde Amendment, said House Appropriations Committee Chairwoman Nita M. Lowey. We don't talk about what federal policies mean for a woman sitting in a doctor's office, in fear of the risks to her own health or financial security. We don't talk enough about how to help her. The truth is, that woman has been discriminated against by the laws of her co… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://himes.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-himes-announces-4690100-grant-stamford-hospital-assist-cost Congressman Himes announces $4,690,100 grant to Stamford Hospital to assist in the cost of COVID-19 response 2020-12-08 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT Jim Himes H001047 himes.house.gov     legacy Today, Congressman Jim Himes (CT-04) announced that through Stamford Hospital, Stamford Health will receive a$4,690,100grant from theFederal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The grant will reimburse Stamford Hospital for their emergency response to COVID-19,includingan alternativetreatment site,drive through testing,designated staff,PPEand plexiglassfor health care workers, as well as additional hospital beds, tents, and ventilators. Additionally,thegrant willensure the hospital can continue to effectively respond to the pandemic in the months ahead. Ensuring our health providers are well-funded is essential to combatting this pandemic and keeping our community safe, said Himes. When ourcommunity was hit hard in the first few months of this virus, organizations like Stamford Health werecrucial in treating patients and saving lives. As we prepare for a surge in cases, it's more important than ever that hospitalscanhandle all patients who need treatment.Additionally, health care workersare our community's heroes, so it is essential they have theprotection they need to keep themselves safe. The $4.69 million FEMA grant is very meaningful to Stamford Health, said KathleenSilard, President & CEO, Stamford Health.Now more than ever, our healthcare system needs to be financially strong to care for the communities we serve. Stamford Health is well prepared to handle the rise of COVID-19 cases. We've also taken many steps to ensure the safety of our staff and patients as we continue to provide routine healthcare services. We are not out of the woods just yet, but I am hopeful for the future. We are deeply appreciative of the federal government, Congressman Himes and our US Senators who have provided critical assistance throughout this pandemic. According to Stamford Health, the award provides $4,690,100.70 in federal funding to Stamford Hospital for Emergency Protective Measures as a result of FEMA-DR-4500-CT (COVID-19 Pandemic Disaster Declaration). The total cost ofStamford Health's responseis $6,253,467, and … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://himes.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/himes-lowey-applaud-inclusion-byram-river-project-wrda Himes, Lowey Applaud Inclusion of Byram River Project in WRDA 2020-12-08 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT Jim Himes H001047 himes.house.gov     legacy Washington, DC Today, the United States House of Representatives passed the Water Resources Development Act of 2020 (WRDA). The bill authorizes U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to begin navigation, flood control, storm damage, and other water-related infrastructure projects. Congressman Jim Himes (CT-04) and House Appropriations Committee Chairwoman Nita Lowey (NY-17) supported the bill. Included in WRDA is the authorization of the Byram River Basin Flood Risk Management project. The Byram River runs for approximately 14 miles through Lowey and Himes' districts in Southeast New York and Southwest Connecticut. Because it is prone to damaging flooding, local and federal officials have called for years for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to look at ways to mitigate or prevent flooding. The plan approved as part of WRDA proposes removing and replacing two bridges in Port Chester, New York in order to reduce restrictions to river flow. "Chairwoman Lowey and I are excited that this year's WRDA authorizes the Byram River Basin Flood Risk Management project, because flooding has been a serious concern for homeowners and businesses alike in Greenwich for decades, said Himes. As we continue to see more frequent extreme weather events due to climate change, our coastal areas and rivers that are vulnerable to flooding need their infrastructure updated significantly. This plan will not only provide flood relief, but help efforts to restore the River's habitat to a more natural environment and improve resiliency for future storms. Congressman Himes and I are pleased that flood prevention infrastructure along the river will be updated through the WRDA, said Congresswoman Lowey. Recent history has shown us the devastating impact the Byram River can have on our communities when it floods, and the effects of climate change could only worsen that impact. Authorizing the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to begin flood mitigation projects on the Byram River is an important step in protecting our homes, businesses and environment. For more … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-during-these-difficult-times-ndaa-will-strengthen-connecticut-s Larson: During These Difficult Times, NDAA Will Strengthen Connecticuts Manufacturing 2020-12-08 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT John Larson L000557 larson.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. - Today, Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01) released the following statement after voting for the FY 2021 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that includes increases for multiple defense programs based in Connecticut. During these difficult times, the FY2021 NDAA provides a much-needed 3 percent raise for our troops and boosts defense manufacturing in Connecticut. These increases support thousands of jobs and help our economy. This would not have happened without the work of Rep. Joe Courtney who leads the fight for Connecticut in the Armed Services Committee and is a member of the conference committee. "The NDAA includes a nearly $2 billion increase in the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program. Last year the program supported more than 92 suppliers in the state, 16,500 jobs, and had an economic impact of $1.7 billion. Thanks to Rep. Courtney, the Virginia class submarine program also saw a $1.3 billion increase and the restoration of a second submarine which was listed by the Navy as its number one unfunded priority, yet was cut by the President's budget. Submarine programs support more than 367 suppliers and have an $864 million economic impact in the state. Connecticut's First District is also the largest supplier for Sikorsky helicopters which supports more than 126 suppliers and has a $166 million economic impact across the state. The President's veto threat on something unrelated to our national defense, puts our national security at risk. For the past 59 years the NDAA has been approved on a bipartisan basis, as it is going to be again today. The President should sign this bill into law with no delay. Highlights of Connecticut's defense manufacturing priorities: $10.6 billion for purchase of 93 F-35 Joint Strike Fighters, advanced procurement, modifications to existing fighters, spares, and continued development (a $1.7 billion increase over last year's authorized amount). $2.8 billion for B-21 Raider development. $6.8 billion for the Virginia class submarine program, including restoration o… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-votes-legislation-help-als-patients-secure-social-security Larson Votes for Legislation to Help ALS Patients Secure Social Security Disability Benefits Quicker 2020-12-08 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT John Larson L000557 larson.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. Today, House Ways and Means Social Security Subcommittee Chairman John B. Larson (CT-01) voted for theALS Disability Insurance Access Act of 2019. The bill removes the five month waiting period for ALS patients to apply for benefits. The bill passed the Senate last week and will head to the President's desk to sign into law.Click here to view Rep. Larson's remarks. Remarks as Prepared ALS is a devastating and cruel disease.There is no cure for ALS, and ALS always leads to a premature death. On average, people live only two to five years after getting a diagnosis of ALS. Earlier this year I lost my dear friend and former Chief of Staff Elliot Ginsberg to ALS and previously lost my dear friend Dan Jones. Every year, approximately 5,000 Americans are diagnosed with ALS.Over time, people with ALS lose their ability to speak, eat, move, and even to breathe. They are unable to work due to their severe disabilities, and they lose their jobs and their employer-based health insurance. Recognizing the devastating nature of ALS, in 2000 Congress passed bipartisan legislation that waived the 24-month waiting period for Medicare for people with ALS. Today we consider the ALS Disability Insurance Access Act of 2019.This bipartisan legislation will end the five-month waiting period for Social Security Disability Insurance benefits for people with ALS. I thank Representative Seth Moulton who has been a champion on this issue, along with the 305 Members of the House of Representatives who have cosponsored Rep. Moulton's bill.I urge my colleagues to vote in favor of the ALS Disability Insurance Access Act of 2019. Our actions today will provide people with ALS with quicker access to the Social Security and Medicare benefits they have earned.I wouldalsolike to commend my colleague on the House Ways and Means Committee, Bill Pascrell, for his passionate leadership and untiring advocacy on behalf of those suffering with Huntington's disease, a terrible disease which affects children as well as adults. Today we are p… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/courtney-s-bipartisan-bill-protect-educational-impact-aid-public-schools Courtneys Bipartisan Bill to Protect Educational Impact Aid for Public Schools Amid COVID-19 is Signed Into Law 2020-12-07 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT Joe Courtney C001069 courtney.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC Today,Congressman Joe Courtney (CT-02) announced that his bipartisan bill to safeguard Educational Impact Aid for military andTribal Nationsschoolchildren amid the pandemicwas signed into law.CourtneyfirstintroducedtheImpact Aid Coronavirus Relief Act (H.R. 8075)on August 25th andsuccessfully builtstrong bipartisan support for the legislation,even amid thewidely reported-oninability for the Senate to find agreement on any other form of COVID-19 relief. Courtney's H.R. 8075waspassedby unanimous consentin theU.S.House of Representatives onOctober5th.The Impact Aid Coronavirus Relief Act waspassed in the U.S. Senateone month later, on November5th, again by unanimous consent.Today it was signed into law at the White House. 2020 has been an extremely difficult year for K-12 public education. The Impact Aid Coronavirus Relief Act will provide much needed stability for school districts which have unique student populations, said Rep. Courtney. School districts like Groton and Ledyard with military families are at risk of losing federal impact assistance as a consequence of adopting remote learning during the COVID-19 pandemic. Ledyard School Superintendent Jason Hartling and Groton Superintendent Michael Graner were instrumental in bringing this issue forward to my office, which resulted in the introduction of the legislation. Other school districts serving military bases, Native American tribes, and migrant farm workers joined their effort to lobby their members of Congress, and all of the support culminated in the enactment of this bill. I want to salute Rep. Dusty Johnson from South Dakota for joining me to introduce this bipartisan bill, and for all of our colleagues who supported our effort. As we near the end of 2020, it's clear that our nation needs broad-based COVID relief. I was proud to lead the charge on securing this targeted relief for our eastern Connecticut schoolsit's a good win and a step in the right direction, and I'll keep working hard to secure more. Rep. Courtney's Impact Aid Corona… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-applauds-nomination-xavier-becerra-serve-secretary-health-and Larson Applauds Nomination of Xavier Becerra to Serve as Secretary of Health and Human Services 2020-12-07 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT John Larson L000557 larson.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. Today, Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01) applauded President-elect Biden's nomination of California Attorney General Xavier Becerra for Secretary of Health and Human Services. Becerra served as Vice Chair of the Democratic Caucus when Larson served as Chair of the Democratic Caucus. They both served on the Ways and Means Committee together as well. We need a strong leader heading the Department of Health and Human Services during this pandemic, and President-elect Biden will have that in Attorney General Becerra. I had the pleasure of serving with Attorney General Becerra on the Ways and Means Committee and while I was Chair of the Democratic Caucus. He will be a strong advocate for all Americans as we fight for quality and affordable health care for all, said Larson. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/neal-larson-and-davis-statement-trump-administration-s-latest-attack Neal, Larson, and Davis Statement on Trump Administrations Latest Attack on Social Security Benefits 2020-12-07 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT John Larson L000557 larson.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC Today, House Ways and Means Committee Chairman Richard E. Neal (D-MA), Social Security Subcommittee Chairman John B. Larson (D-CT), and Worker and Family Support Subcommittee Chairman Danny K. Davis (D-IL)released the following statement regarding news that a draft proposed rule that would narrow the eligibility criteria for Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) disability benefits has been sent by the Social Security Administration to the Office of Management and Budget for review: Yet again, the Trump Administration is going out of its way to make it harder for people to qualify for the Social Security disability benefits they have earned. Already, fewer than four in 10 applicants are found eligible for Social Security disability benefits, even after all levels of appeal. This rule would reportedly further restrict eligibility for approximately 500,000 Americans, making it even harder for older, severely disabled people to access the essential income they're qualified to receive.It is outrageous and cruel that at the eleventh hour and in the middle of a pandemic the Trump Administration is trying to advance yet another harmful cut to Social Security benefits for the most vulnerable Americans. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/courtney-statement-fy-2021-national-defense-authorization-conference Courtney Statement on the FY 2021 National Defense Authorization Conference Report 2020-12-04 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT Joe Courtney C001069 courtney.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC Today, Congressman Joe Courtney (CT-02), Chairman of the House Armed Services Subcommittee onSeapowerand Projection Forces,issuedthefollowing statement ontheconference reportto accompany the Fiscal Year (FY) 2021 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) (H.R. 6395), the 60thconsecutive, annualdefense authorization package.The FY21 NDAA conference report provides support for Courtney and the HouseSeapowerand Projection ForcesSubcommittee's bipartisan effort to restore full funding for the construction of the second Virginia-class submarinea vessel that the Navy listed as itsmost importantunfunded priority in 2021and includes many other important provisions. "Thefact that we are on path to pass the NDAA for the 60thconsecutive year exemplifies thebipartisannature of the House Armed Services Committee.I'm proud of the way we came together once againto get the job done forboth the security of our nation and ourmen and women in uniform,saidChairmanCourtney.We were up against some unprecedented challenges this yearincluding a global pandemic, and anadministration that started this process with the weakest shipbuilding plan in over a decade, andit isending with nonsensicalveto threatsbut we've worked together across the aisle every step of the way. The final NDAA that our conference committee producedadds an additional $3.5 billion to the anemic shipbuilding proposal we received from this administration, and it capitalizes on eastern Connecticut's defense manufacturing sector inmajor ways. I'm particularly pleased that our bipartisan, bicameralconference committee negotiations yielded a final NDAA that retainedmanyof the House's most important priorities this year.Restoring construction of an entire submarine was a big win, but our final NDAAdoes a lot more than that. The finalagreementalso authorizes an across-the-board pay raise for ourtroops,supports criticalairliftplatformsoperated bytheConnecticut National Guard,provides strong continuedbacking for important academic partnerships in undersea resear… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-tribune-publishing-should-reverse-decision-close-hartford-courant Larson: Tribune Publishing Should Reverse Decision to Close Hartford Courant Newsroom on Broad Street 2020-12-04 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT John Larson L000557 larson.house.gov     legacy Hartford, CT Today Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01) released the following statement after Tribune Publishing announced that it would be permanently closing the Hartford Courant newsroom at 285 Broad Street in Hartford at the end of the year. The Hartford Courant is America's oldest continuously published paper. Over its more than 250 year history the newspaper has broken countless stories, and continues to be the paper of record in Connecticut. Over the past several years, reporters and readers have experienced severe cuts to staffing, and today it was announced they will be losing their newsroom. This announcement is very disappointing and I hope Tribune Publishing reverses this decision, said Larson. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/caucus-overwhelmingly-chose-delauro-chair-appropriations-committee-117th Caucus Overwhelmingly Chose DeLauro To Chair Appropriations Committee in the 117th Congress 2020-12-03 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT Rosa DeLauro D000216 delauro.house.gov     legacy First from Connecticut to Hold the Position WASHINGTON The House Democratic Caucus overwhelmingly elected Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) to be the Chair of the House Appropriations Committee in the 117th Congress today. DeLauro currently chairs the Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Subcommittee of the House Appropriations Committee. DeLauro had received the endorsement of more than two-thirds of the Steering and Policy Committee, as well as a broad range of organizations representing all elements of the Democratic Party and progressive movement including numerous major unions and leaders in education, labor, and women and children's protection and advancement. In response to their vote, DeLauro issued this statement: Serving in this role will be one of the greatest honors of my life, and I am eager to get to work and responsibly fund our government in a way that meets the needs of this moment. Thank you to my colleagues who have given me this opportunity to serve and to all of my supporters who believe in me and what this institution can achieve for the American people. It is a unique time. We are in the middle of a health and economic crisis that must be addressed, communities of color face systemic racism, and we welcome a President with a mandate for change, yet we may still face gridlock. As House Appropriations Chair, I am prepared to deliver the boldest progress possible for Connecticut and families across the country in the next Congress. Each Member of Congress represents vastly different districts which each face unique challenges, we are united by our desire to stop the spread of this pandemic, create economic recovery, deliver results for the hardworking families struggling across the country, and address the systemic racial inequities to make America more just and equal. Together is the only way forward. With President-elect Biden and Vice President-elect Harris and in partnership with our Democratic and Republican colleagues, we will reach the light at the end … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-delauro-s-selection-appropriations-chair-historic-moment Larson: DeLauros Selection as Appropriations Chair is a Historic Moment for Connecticut 2020-12-03 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT John Larson L000557 larson.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. Today, Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01) released the following statement after the House Democratic Caucus voted for Rep. Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) to be chosen as the Chair of the House Appropriations Committee in the 117thCongress. I extend my congratulations to Rosaon this outstandingaccomplishment.This is a historic first for Connecticut. Not since Jonathan Trumbull waselectedSpeaker of the House has Connecticut held such an important position in the United States Congress. Rosa is the first member of Connecticut to be Chair of the Appropriations Committee.With Rosa DeLauro now Chair of the Appropriations Committee, Richard Neal ofSpringfield,Massachusetts Chair of the Ways and Means Committee, and Jim McGovern of Massachusetts Chair of the Rules Committee,New Englandis now the most influential region in the country. Rosa's dedicationand persistencein alwaysfighting for the people of Connecticut and the least among us across this great nationis unparalleled.She was recognized and rewarded by her peers with an overwhelming election. Rosa will beacriticalplayerworking withthe Biden Administration and bringing us through this COVID pandemic, andputtingthe country back to work.It is an honor to serve alongside of herand see the faith that her colleagueshave in bestowing this Chairmanship in her very capable hands.Congratulations Rosa, you've made us all very proud! ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-ways-and-means-democrats-demand-irs-resolve-all-outstanding-eip Larson, Ways and Means Democrats Demand IRS Resolve All Outstanding EIP Inquiries Before the End of the Year 2020-12-03 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT John Larson L000557 larson.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DC Today, Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01) joined fellow Ways and Means Democrats, led by Committee Chairman Richard E. Neal (D-MA) and Ways and Means Oversight Subcommittee Chairman Bill Pascrell, Jr. (D-NJ),to demand that the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) resolve all remaining inquiries on economic impact payments (EIPs) before the end of the year. In their letter to IRS Commissioner Charles Rettig, the lawmakers also requested that the IRS keep the EIP mailbox for congressional offices open through the end of the next filing season. The tool was created after congressional offices were inundated with requests from desperate constituents seeking a more direct pathway to IRS assistance during the COVID-19 crisis. Though the Committee appreciates the IRS's belated efforts to address constituent inquiries, we were very troubled to learn that, in a matter of days, the IRS will shut down the mailbox, a vital resource for congressional offices to communicate with the IRS, the Ways and Means Democrats emphasized to Commissioner Rettig. The IRS abruptly announced that it would stop accepting new inquiries on Monday, November 30 and would cease work on all open inquiries by December 10. Constituents with unresolved issues, including non-filers, will be forced to file a 2020 tax return to claim a recovery rebate credit. For some constituents, the unresolved issues may well continue to impact their claims next year, and they will have to start over with the IRS from scratch. This is not right. An EIP of $1200, $2400, or more can be a lifeline for a family in severe financial distress, especially at this time of year, the lawmakers stressed. Therefore, we urge the IRS to keep the EIP mailbox open through the end of the 2021 filing season. This not only will enable the IRS to continue addressing existing constituent inquiries and making payments through December 31, 2020 but will also allow the IRS to assist additional constituents who encounter issues when trying to claim a recovery rebate credit on their 2020 tax … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-leads-call-for-virtual-exam-software-companies-to-improve-equity-accessibility-and-privacy-for-students-amid-troubling-reports Blumenthal Leads Call for Virtual Exam Software Companies to Improve Equity, Accessibility & Privacy for Students Amid Troubling Reports 2020-12-03 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov     legacy Blumenthal Leads Call for Virtual Exam Software Companies to Improve Equity, Accessibility & Privacy for Students Amid Troubling Reports Print Tweet Students of color and students with disabilities have reported major issues in using the software of leading online testing platforms | Senators raised concerns about the safety & privacy of students' personal data & information collected by the companies Thursday, December 3, 2020 [WASHINGTON, D.C.] U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) led a group of six senators in pressing three of the largest virtual testing companies used by schools and testing administrators amid the COVID-19 pandemic ExamSoft, Proctorio, and ProctorUto address alarming equity, accessibility, and privacy issues faced by students using the platforms. Recent reports indicate students, particularly students of color and those with disabilities, have had severe issues using the software, been locked out of tests, or wrongly accused of cheating. For example, students of color and students wearing religious clothing like headscarves reported the software failed to recognize their facial features and they were temporarily barred from access. Students have run head on into the shortcomings of these technologiesshortcomings that fall heavily on vulnerable communities and perpetuate discriminatory biases, wrote the senators in the letter to ExamSoft. Similar letters were sent to Proctorio and ProctorU. It is critical that bias, including racial and gender disparities, be addressed expeditiously to ensure that our students of color are not facing additional barriers in their fields. The senators raised major concerns about the companies' accommodations for students with disabilities, for example those with facial tic disorders or muscle reflexes, who may be flagged by the software as suspicious or cheating, and virtual proctors unprepared to accommodate students wi… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-courtney-statement-national-defense-authorization-act Rep. Courtney Statement on the National Defense Authorization Act 2020-12-02 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT Joe Courtney C001069 courtney.house.gov     legacy NORWICH, CTToday, Congressman Joe Courtney (CT-02), Chairman of the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Seapower and Projection Forces, issued the following statement regarding President Trump's veto threat against the FY 2021 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) if repeal of Section 230 of the federal communications code is not added to the bill. The scope of a bipartisan conference committee's work is clearly and strictly limited to the language of the bills that already passed out of the House and Senate,said Congressman Courtney.The two bipartisan NDAA bills that passed earlier this year, that's our only source materialnot new, extraneous, non-germane amendments. Section 230 of the federal communications code has absolutely no connection to the National Defense Authorization, or to the year-long proceedings in the House and Senate where we hammered out these bipartisan bills. The bipartisan NDAA our conference committee is working to finalize includes hundreds of priorities for all of our service branches, important provisions for U.S. servicemembers, and we passed both bills with veto-proof majorities.This is a debate that should occur at the Energy and Commerce Committee, not the Armed Services Committee, and it's one that should never be used to disrupt the safety and security ofour men and women in uniform. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/op-eds-and-letters/congress-must-act-protect-and-expand-social-security-benefits Congress must act to protect and expand Social Security benefits 2020-12-02 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT John Larson L000557 larson.house.gov     legacy This piece originally appeared in The Hill on December 2, 2020. Social Security is our nation's number one financial security and anti-poverty program. Over its 85 years it has never missed a payment and has been the foundation for Americans' retirement. As the country continues to fight the ever-worsening coronavirus pandemic and having elected a new President and Congress, the urgent need to protect and expand Social Security benefits must be addressed. 64 million Americans currently receive benefits and 178 million workers are paying into Social Security with each and every paycheck, expecting that Social Security will be there when they need it. As President-elect Biden has said, Social Security is a sacred obligation that Congress must uphold. Some say we can't afford to protect and expand Social Security now, during a global pandemic. However, those most harmed by the pandemic the elderly, people of color, and especially women of color are the same ones who rely on Social Security the most, and they desperately need a temporary emergency benefit increase. As Chairman of the Social Security Subcommittee and co-chair of the Expand Social Security Caucus, I will again introduce an emergency bill to increase benefits for Social Security recipients during the pandemic and to fix an anomaly which will cut benefits significantly for those born in 1960, who are retiring in 2022, if Congress does not act. This anomaly is due to the sudden drop in wages caused by COVID-19, which affects the formula the Social Security Administration uses to calculate benefits. We will also reintroduce a revised version of the Security 2100 Act in the 117th Congress, to improve benefits and ensure solvency for at least 75 years. We will again reach out to the Republicans, seeking their constructive support, in the hope that they will join us in aiding those most impacted by this virus. We are glad that President-elect Biden campaigned on both protecting and expanding Social Security and has called it a sacred trust. We look forward … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-introduces-bill-to-improve-end-of-life-care Blumenthal Introduces Bill to Improve End-of-Life Care 2020-12-02 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov     legacy Blumenthal Introduces Bill to Improve End-of-Life Care Print Tweet The Compassionate Care Act would help Americans make end-of-life and advance care plans to ensure their wishes are followed Wednesday, December 2, 2020 [WASHINGTON, D.C.] U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) introduced legislation to promote advance care planning and end-of-life care to ensure patients get the care they want and that is right for them. Few Americans have plans in place in case they become severely ill, but due to the pandemic, more Americans of all ages are thinking about end-of-life care and seeking advice on advance care planning. The Compassionate Care Act would provide federal support to educate patients and providers, develop core end-of-life quality measures, and expand access to advance care planning via telehealth. This bill will help Americans have the difficult but necessary conversations about end-of-life care, said Blumenthal. The COVID-19 pandemic has reminded Americans of all ages of the importance to have a plan in place in case of severe illness or death.By promoting end-of-life care through public awareness, expanding telehealth services, and working with physicians, we can ensure that not one more person is robbed of making critical life or death decisions for themselves during this pandemic and beyond. Among other provisions, the Compassionate Care Act would: Establish guidelines for advance care planning between health providers and patients; Launch a National Public Awareness Campaign that would encourage patients and providers to make end-of-life plans; Direct the Secretary of Health and Human Services to develop education resources for providers to engage with patients, work with providers, state boards of medicine, and clinical associations to develop advance care education resources, and solicit feedback from providers and develop quality measures; Improve access to advan… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-courtney-prepares-end-quarantine-doctor-s-approval Rep. Courtney Prepares to End Quarantine with Doctors Approval 2020-12-01 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT Joe Courtney C001069 courtney.house.gov     legacy VERNON, CTToday, Congressman Joe Courtney (CT-02) issued an update following last week's announcement that he had tested positive for COVID-19. Courtney has remained on the job while quarantining and recovering at home in eastern Connecticut, and is expected to return to Washington this week for votes and other official duties following clearance from his doctor. I've continued to work remotely while recovering at home in Vernon, and I'm glad to report that my doctor has officially cleared me to end quarantine and to resume work in-person,said Rep. Courtney.My team's work for eastern Connecticut hasn't slowed down in the past two weeks, and there's more coming up fast on the horizon. We're expecting to finalize negotiations this week on the 2021 National Defense Authorization Act; my bipartisan COVID-19 relief bill to protect educational impact aid funding for military schoolchildren is expected to be signed into law; the House is working to complete a spending package containing several important items for our region; and much more. A clean bill of health from my doctor means that I'll be able to travel to Washington, DC to resume this work in person, and I'm grateful for our medical professionals and for my family who helped me to stay on the path towards a successful recovery. My experience with COVID-19 was thankfully a relatively mild one, and my family and I are grateful that was the case. But that has not been the experience of hundreds of thousands of other Americans. As we near the end of 2020, while American families are struggling and hospital beds are filling up, it's clear that folks need more assistanceour health care workers, our local small businesses and restaurants, working families uncertain about the future, and so many others. It is imperative that Congress and the White House, in the final weeks of the lame duck session, find a way to approve emergency COVID relief which is screaming out for action. I want to thank all the staff at UConn Health Center for their care, my wife Audrey and daugh… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/members-of-congress-file-bipartisan-supreme-court-amicus-brief-in-support-of-human-trafficking-victims Members of Congress File Bipartisan Supreme Court Amicus Brief in Support of Human Trafficking Victims 2020-12-01 2020 2020-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov     legacy Members of Congress File Bipartisan Supreme Court Amicus Brief in Support of Human Trafficking Victims Print Tweet Tuesday, December 1, 2020 [WASHINGTON, D.C.] U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and U.S. Representative Chris Smith (R-NJ) led a bipartisan group of 21 members of Congress in filing an amicus brief supporting victims of human trafficking in their case against two corporations Nestl USA and Cargill alleged to have knowingly aided and abetted the abuse of child slaves trafficked to work on cacao farms in Cte d'Ivoire. The Supreme Court heard oral arguments on the case today. The brief was joined by U.S. Senators Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Ben Cardin (D-MD), Chris Coons (D-DE), Dick Durbin (D-IL), Patrick Leahy (D-VT), Robert Menendez (D-NJ), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Ron Wyden (D-OR), and U.S. Representatives Joaquin Castro (D-TX), David Cicilline (D-RI), Steve Cohen (D-TN), Pramila Jayapal (D-WA), Tom Malinowski (D-NJ), Tony Crdenas (D-CA), Carolyn Maloney (D-NY), Gregory Meeks (D-NY), Jerry Nadler (D-NY), Bobby Scott (D-VA), and Nydia Velzquez (D-NY). The members of Congress' amicus brief focuses on the extensive and bipartisan efforts by Congress to eradicate human trafficking, forced labor, and all forms of modern day slavery, most notably through the Trafficking Victims Protection Act (TVPRA), authored by Rep. Smith. The legislation, passed by Congress in 2000 and strengthened through subsequent reauthorizations, criminalizes sex and labor trafficking, creates a federal civil remedy for victims of human trafficking, and expands the law to allow for civil and criminal liability for forced labor committed internationally. The amicus brief argues that the TVPRA is the correct guidepost to determine Congress' views on human trafficking and that the law does not preclude trafficking victims from bringing a lawsuit in the U.S. under the Alien Tort Statue (ATS), emphasizing that Congress int… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delauro-statement-biden-harris-nomination-neera-tanden-director-office DeLauro Statement on Biden-Harris Nomination of Neera Tanden for Director of the Office of Management and Budget 2020-11-30 2020 2020-11 Democrat Senate CT Rosa DeLauro D000216 delauro.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03), Chair of the Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Subcommittee, issued this statement after President-elect Biden and Vice President-elect Harris announced the selection of Neera Tanden for Director of the Office of Management and Budget: The economic team President-elect Biden and Vice President-elect Harris have assembled is made up of experienced and accomplished trailblazers that are more than prepared to tackle the crises facing our nation. I am grateful Neera Tanden, someone I have long trusted as a partner in the fight to support working families and broad-based economic growth, will lead OMB through this critical transition. With shared priorities like increasing funds and access to food assistance programs like SNAP, universal health care for all through Medicare for America and expanding and improving the Child Tax Credit through the American Family Act, I look forward to working closely with Tanden to implement critical legislation we have long fought to pass. The American people win with Tanden at the head of OMB. Together, this economic team inspires hope for a brighter tomorrow and an economy that expands opportunity for every American family. # # # 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-statement-retirement-news-8-s-mark-davis Larson Statement on the Retirement of News 8s Mark Davis 2020-11-30 2020 2020-11 Democrat Senate CT John Larson L000557 larson.house.gov     legacy Hartford, CT Today, Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01) released the following statement after it was announced that Mark Davis, the Chief Political Correspondent for News 8 is retiring after more than 50 years in broadcast journalism and nearly 37 years at News 8. Mark Davis has been a legend in political journalism in Connecticut over the course of my career. He asked the tough questions but was always fair, forthright, and focused. I wish him and his wife Betsy the best as he begins his retirement, said Larson. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/courtney-statement-omb-request-second-virginia-class-submarine Courtney Statement on OMB Request for Second Virginia Class Submarine 2020-11-25 2020 2020-11 Democrat Senate CT Joe Courtney C001069 courtney.house.gov     legacy VERNON, CT Congressman Joe Courtney, Chairman of the HouseSeapowerand Projection Forces Subcommittee, today welcomed the Office of Management and Budget's (OMB) request to Congress to fully fund a second Virginia Class submarine in the 2021 defense appropriations bill. I'm pleased that the Trump Administration hasfinally recognized whattheHouse of Representatives and theDepartment of the Navy alreadyknewthedecision to fund a secondVirginia-class submarine andto sustain the two-a-yearbuild rateis in the best interest ofournational security,Chairman Courtney said.OMB and the White House's proposal last February to cut a submarine in the 2021 budget was a short-sighted decision and should have never been in the budget in the first place.Thankfully, the bipartisan work we've done over the last ten months in the House-passed defense authorization and appropriations bills to fully fund a second submarine already provides a viable, paid-for path towards reversing the damage OMB itself created. While today's belated, last-minute support from the White House is helpful,it's really just tapping a putt on the lip of the cup that the U.S. House Defense Committees got to the hole. Background: The FY21 budget requested one Virginia-class submarine, breaking the two-per-year build rate that has been in place since 2011. Since 2018, Congress has allocated $1.1 billion for the second submarine including an additional $200 million just last year to support the sustained two-per-year build rate and in language approved in the 2020 NDAA, which directed the Navy to submit a budget that supports a two-submarine budget in 2021. On a bipartisan basis, Congress has panned the proposal to eliminate the second submarine. The Navy's unfunded priority list ranked the fully funded restoration of the second 2021 Virginia-class submarine as the service's top priority. In March, Courtney led 111 members in urging the House Appropriations Committee to support restoration of the second submarine. The letter notes that "The proposal to request o… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/chairman-courtney-statement-air-force-c-130j-basing-decision Chairman Courtney Statement on Air Force C-130J Basing Decision 2020-11-24 2020 2020-11 Democrat Senate CT Joe Courtney C001069 courtney.house.gov     legacy VERNON, CT Congressman Joe Courtney (CT-02), Chairman of the HouseSeapowerand Projection Forces Subcommittee, today issued the following statement in response to the Air Force's strategic basing decision for new C-130J aircraft for the Air National Guard. For months now,basing candidate sites in Connecticut and seven other states have waiting anxiously foroutcome of this process.These states deserve a consistent, impartial,and apolitical process that judges each site by the meritsand that is not what they got, unfortunately. As I have relayed to senior Air Force leaders repeatedly in recent months, there have been serious concerns raised from around the country that the Air Force's criteria changed during the latter stages of the evaluation process. To make matters worse, the Air Force without the slightest warning added a fourth site, assigning aircraft not yet approved by Congress tobe based inGeorgia. This surprise movewas never once included in the Air Forces basing plans shared with our committee over the last two years, and it taints this process in the midst of a presidential transition and two special elections in Georgia. That frankly does not pass the smell test. Each year, Congress works on a bipartisan basis to authorize and fund critical modernization upgrades and aircraft recapitalization needs for our Air National Guard cargo aircraft fleet that are left unmet by the Air Force. We do this because of the critical nature of the mission they serve and the important work they do for their states and our nation.The very least we should expect is a basing process that allocates these critical aircraft in an unbiased way and I am disappointed that the Air Force did not meet that necessary and low bar. Background: InMarch, the Air Force notified Congress of its intention to conduct a strategic basing process to base 24 C-130J aircraft at three new sites. Eight locations were considered, including Bradley Airport in Connecticut. A decision was planned by September. In September, the Air Force notified Co… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-statement-rep-courtney-covid-19-diagnosis Larson Statement on Rep. Courtney COVID-19 Diagnosis 2020-11-23 2020 2020-11 Democrat Senate CT John Larson L000557 larson.house.gov     legacy Hartford, CT Today, Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01) released the following statement: Our thoughts and prayers are with Rep. Courtney and his family over this Thanksgiving Holiday for a speedy and healthy recovery. I know like all of us in the delegation and Congress we are thankful for his leadership for the 2nd Congressional District, the State, our armed services, and a grateful nation he so nobly serves. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/courtney-issues-statement-after-testing-positive-covid-19 Courtney Issues Statement After Testing Positive for COVID-19 2020-11-22 2020 2020-11 Democrat Senate CT Joe Courtney C001069 courtney.house.gov     legacy VERNON, CT Congressman Joe Courtney (CT-02) issued the following statement this evening shortly after testing positive for COVID-19: Last week, I learned that I was inadvertently exposed to someone who would later test positive for COVID-19, although they weren't aware of their positive status at the time, said Courtney. Upon learning of that initial exposure, I immediately began following the strict isolation guidelines laid out by the CDC and by my doctor while I waited to get a coronavirus test. After my first test came back negative, I continued to isolate but began to experience mild symptoms. I got another test and, this evening I was notified that the second test came back positive. I've got a lot of confidence in my treating doctor and in my teamour work for eastern Connecticut will continue as always, and I'll keep performing my duties in a safe, remote fashion while isolated at my home. This experience reinforces my strong belief that right now, we need to be doing our part to help our communities by listening to the experts at the CDCwe've got to remain vigilant about wearing masks, social distancing, and the basic essentials like washing our hands frequently. There are folks in eastern Connecticut working hard every day to help our region through this pandemic, and following the CDC's guidelines is the best way we can support their efforts here on the ground. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-votes-expand-apprenticeship-programs-critical-ct-manufacturing Larson Votes to Expand Apprenticeship Programs, Critical to CT Manufacturing 2020-11-20 2020 2020-11 Democrat Senate CT John Larson L000557 larson.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. Today, Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01) voted for the National Apprenticeship Act of 2020 that would create 1 million new apprenticeships across the country. Apprenticeships are critical to strengthening Connecticut's manufacturing ecosystem. That's why I support the National Apprenticeship Act of 2020 to create 1 million new apprenticeships. Registered apprenticeships have been the most successful federal workforce training program and they allow workers to learn on the job while being paid. Connecticut currently has more than 5,000 active apprenticeships and this new investment will expand those opportunities, said Larson. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delauro-statement-trump-administration-single-handedly-preventing DeLauro Statement on Trump Administration Single-Handedly Preventing Migrant Families Separated at the Border from Receiving Mental Health Services 2020-11-19 2020 2020-11 Democrat Senate CT Rosa DeLauro D000216 delauro.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03), Chair of the Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Subcommittee, issued this statement on reports that Trump White House adviser Stephen Miller killed a DOJ-supported deal to pay for mental health care for migrant families separated at the border: The Trump administration's, specifically Stephen Miller's, hate and cruelty knows no bounds. Stephen Miller's refusal to accept a deal that included mental health services for children and families ultimately resulted in a judge ordering the government to pay $14 million, $6 million more than the original deal. From family separation to the inadequate living conditions, refusal to vaccinate children, and widespread abuse, the extent of the shameful, abhorrent government-sponsored child abuse committed by this administration is beyond the pale. Taxpayer dollars should never have been used to carry out these policies. Administration officials responsible for this must be held accountable. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/courtney-applauds-decision-noaa-uphold-eb-s-permit-application-begin Courtney Applauds Decision by NOAA to Uphold EBs Permit Application to Begin Utilizing ELDS 2020-11-18 2020 2020-11 Democrat Senate CT Joe Courtney C001069 courtney.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DCCongressman Joe Courtney (CT-02), Chairman of the House Armed Services Subcommittee onSeapower and Projection Forces, released the following statement today afterthe National Oceanic and AtmosphericAdministration (NOAA)ruled to uphold General Dynamics Electric Boat's (EB) application with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineersto lawfully utilize the Eastern Long Island SoundDisposal Site (ELDS) for dredged materials.NOAA's decision will allow dredging work that is essential to EB's new SouthYard Assembly Buildingwhich will house upcoming construction for the new Columbia-class Submarine programto move forward,despite lingering, unfoundedlegal challenges to the ELDS levied by the State of New York. Therehas been a groundswell of input from small marinas, local and state officials, large stakeholders like Submarine Naval Base New London,Electric Boat, and many others, all strongly in favor of the sound selection of the ELDS,said Congressman Courtney.Today's decision by NOAAshouldn't come as a surprisethe EPA under President Obama took painstaking care to document both the environmental and economic impacts of the ELDS,the selection has been upheld in court,and approval of EB's permit application was criticaltonational security as the South Yard Assembly Building will house construction of the next-generation Columbia-class submarine.Nonetheless, following several failed and drawn-out legal challenges by the State of New York, thedecisionto approve EB's permitand put the ELDS to useis a welcome one. I'll continue to work with my colleagues in the Connecticut and Rhode Island delegations to ensure that the lawful, sound selection of the ELDS is upheld once and for all for the benefit of our region. The NOAA decision, which wasissued on Monday,soundly rejects New York's objections to Electric Boat's use of the ELDS for necessary dredging to support the Navy's Columbia class program.In its decision, NOAA cited Navy input that"If EBC is unable to proceed with the proposed action, the COLUMBIA program will be neg… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/courtney-appointed-panel-tasked-negotiating-final-fy2021-defense Courtney Appointed to Panel Tasked with Negotiating the Final FY2021 Defense Authorization 2020-11-18 2020 2020-11 Democrat Senate CT Joe Courtney C001069 courtney.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DCCongressman Joe Courtney (CT-02), Chairman of the House Armed ServicesSubcommittee onSeapowerand Projection Forces,wastodayappointed to the conference committee for the FY2021 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which sets the federal budget for the Department of Defense for theupcomingfiscal year 2021. The bill authorizes billions of dollars of investments forthe U.S. Navy, and forkey defensemanufacturingprioritiesineastern Connecticut and throughoutthestate. In a year of absolute uncertainty, theTrumpAdministration's original proposal tohave America construct the fewest number of combatant vessels in over a decade, and toeliminate construction of an entire Virginia-class submarinein the process,remains one of the most puzzling aspects,said Chairman Courtney.TheSeapowerSubcommittee has direct oversight of U.S. Navy shipbuildingour panel istasked withproviding our Navy with an unrivaled fleet that will meet our country's national security needs, andthe last-minute maneuvers that led to that submarine being removed from the plan defied everything we had heard in recent years about the need to increase our undersea capabilitiesand maintain a steady construction cadence. We got the job done in the House, and we did it on a bipartisan basis.Our bill authorized the full dollar amount needed to construct both Virginia-class submarines in 2021an authorization that's not only important to meeting the needs of our U.S. Navy, but also tothe health of our defense manufacturing sector in eastern Connecticut.We've got favorablewinds at our backs as wemove into conference to reconcile the differences between our bill and the Senate's version, and I'll keep working to find bipartisan support for this and other priorities to ensure that our region is well-positioned in the final product. The House-passed version of the NDAA, H.R.6395,is the onlydefense authorization bill that includes full funding to restore construction of the second Virginia-class submarine in 2021a vessel that was missing from the Trump A… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://himes.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/congressman-himes-announces-666273-grant-saint-joseph-parenting-center Congressman Himes announces $666,273 grant to Saint Joseph Parenting Center to promote healthy homes 2020-11-18 2020 2020-11 Democrat Senate CT Jim Himes H001047 himes.house.gov     legacy Today, Congressman Jim Himes (CT-04) announced that Saint Joseph Parenting Centerin Stamfordwill receive a$666,273grant from theU.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The grant willwork to foster healthy homesthrough fatherhood courses and parenting resources. Giving parents thetools andtrainingthey need to create a stable homeis a crucial firststep to ensuring childrengrow upemotionallyand physically healthy, said Congressman Jim Himes. During this pandemic,childrenarespending more time at home, making it importantthat parents foster asafe environment for their children'sintellectualand socialeducation. I'm thrilled thatSaint Joseph Parenting Centeris receiving federal resources topromotehealthy marriages and healthy families. We are extremely grateful to receive the Fatherhood FIRE grant as it will bolster our existing 24/7 Dads Program. As a new awardee, this funding will enable us to promote and sustain healthy marriages, strengthen positive father-child engagement, and improve employment and economic stability said SJPC Executive Director Rhonda R. Neal.Servicing primarily Lower Fairfield County, Saint Joseph Parenting Center's mission is to strengthen families that are at risk of child abuse and neglect by providing parent education and resource support. Unfortunately, we have seen an increase in child abuse and neglect during the COVID-19 pandemic as parents struggle with job loss, the stress of working from home and having to care for children who cannot go to school during the day, and other issues. This grant will enable SJPC to empower more dads with the parenting education and economic support that they need during this challenging time and beyond in a safe and accessible way using our new virtual online platform. According to the Department of Health and Human Services,The Healthy Marriage and Responsible Fatherhood programs work to strengthen families, promote responsible parenting, and improve family economic stability. The program's goal is to foster economically secure households and … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/courtney-and-house-representatives-pass-bipartisan-bill-provide-483 Courtney and House of Representatives Pass Bipartisan Bill to Provide $483 Million in Funding for Sea Grant 2020-11-17 2020 2020-11 Democrat Senate CT Joe Courtney C001069 courtney.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, DCLast night, Rep. Joe Courtney (CT-02) and the U.S. House of Representatives voted to pass the bipartisan National Sea Grant College Program Amendments Act of 2020 (S. 910), which authorizes $483 million over four years for the National Sea Grant College Program.Across the nation, thirty-three universities, including the University of Connecticut, participate in the National Sea Grant Programa federal-state partnership that provides critical services to a wide range of constituents in every coastal and Great Lakes state, and U.S. territories.The Sea Grant program works with local shellfish farmers, fishermen, and other businesses in coastal economies to grow and sustain their business models by connecting them to local resources to share best practices, and helping them navigate state and federal coastal zone management regulations through technical assistance. UCONN's Connecticut Sea Grant program has worked to support our local fishermen and shellfish farmers for years,said Congressman Courtney.And that's not allthe work that Director De Guise and his team are doing at the Avery Point campus impacts everything from the seafood sector, to coastal resilience and the health of coastal and marine ecosystems, the workforce pipeline for jobs related to coastal and marine environments, and more. Our bipartisan reauthorization provides reassurance for all of the industries who depend on the services of Connecticut Sea Grant, and it couldn't have come at a better time while our shellfish farmers, fishermen, and many others need continued support through COVID-19. The services provided by Sea Grant are important for both economic and environmental outcomes in our communities, and our stakeholders will find reassurance in the reauthorization of the program, given all the uncertainty that is going on at so many levels these days,saidSylvain De Guise, D.M.V., Ph.D, Director of the Connecticut Sea Grant CollegeProgram. Rep. Courtney is a strong supporter of the National Sea Grant College Program, and of the Conn… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://himes.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-himes-announces-125000-grant-members-credit-union-increase-fairfield Rep. Himes Announces $125,000 grant to Members Credit Union to increase Fairfield County residents access to the financial resources 2020-11-17 2020 2020-11 Democrat Senate CT Jim Himes H001047 himes.house.gov     legacy Today, Congressman Jim Himes (CT-04) announced thatMembers Credit Union will receive a $125,000 grant from the U.S. Department of the Treasury, Community Development Financial Institutions(CDFI)Fund.Members Credit Union has receivednationalrecognition, including theJuntosAvanzamos(Together We Advance) designation in 2017,for it's outreach to the Hispanic community.The grant willincreaseFairfield County residents'access tothe Members Credit Union by placing an ATM in Stamford. EnsuringConnecticut residentshave access to their financial institutionswill make it easier for constituents toaccess resources and the financial tools needed during this time. said Himes. The pandemic has disproportionatelyhurtHispanic Americans across the country, so it is especiallyimportantthat Members Credit Unionwill use this grantfor essential outreach.I look forward to working with Members Credit Union and other community organizations to combat the economic consequences of COVID-19. Since becoming aJuntosAvanzamoscredit union, our outreach in Stamford has exceeded our expectations, said KathyChartier,President of the Members Credit Union. We offer financial counseling and no cost/low cost financial savings and loan services to Hispanic immigrants, both documented and undocumented. We have learned that while we are meeting their counseling and borrowing needs it is difficult for them to use our transaction services. Many are paid in cash and it is difficult for them to come to our only location in Cos Cob to make their deposits. We received this grant for the purpose of placing a deposit taking ATM in an area of Stamford that is convenient for our immigrant and low income members, to make cash deposits into their Members Credit Union account and take full advantage of our services. We are grateful for this opportunity to better serve our Stamford members who depend on us to improve the quality of their financial lives. According to Members Credit Union, the organization was started in Greenwich in 1935 and became a community credi… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://himes.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-himes-announces-344000-grant-partnership-end-human-trafficking Rep. Himes Announces $344,000 grant to Partnership to End Human Trafficking to combat human trafficking 2020-11-17 2020 2020-11 Democrat Senate CT Jim Himes H001047 himes.house.gov     legacy Today, Congressman Jim Himes (CT-04) announced thatthePartnership to End Human Trafficking (PEHT)will receive a$344,005grant from theU.S. Department of Justice, Office For Victims of Crimes. The grantwill allow PEHT to partner with community organizations to improve the identification oftraffickedindividualsandtoexpand comprehensive services to human-trafficking victims. Far too often, workers are lured to the U.S. by the promise ofwell-paying jobs and a better future, only to be coerced into unbearable conditions, including domestic servitude or prostitution rings, said Congressman Jim Himes. It's horrific that this happens anywherein the country,let alonein our ownbackyard. I'm glad that PEHT is receiving the federal resources needed toaddress the atrocity of human trafficking inFairfield County. PEHT is so excited to have received this grant award from the Department of Justice Office for Victims of Crimes to build capacity and to provide comprehensive services for victims of human trafficking in the Fairfield County Region of Connecticut saidJamieManirakiza, PEHT's Executive Director. We are currently opening a home for survivors of sex trafficking in the region, and this grant comes at an opportune time to increase our efforts in identification and response for victims of human trafficking in the community. Through this OVC award, we will work to collaborate with existing community partners to make a greater impact in Fairfield County, as we seek to come alongside survivors of this horrific crime. Furthermore, we believe that our two-year trauma-informed and survivor informed transitional home for adult women survivors of trafficking, will fill in a gap in services in Fairfield County for this vulnerable population. PEHT will partner with Love146, another anti-human trafficking non-profit, The Salvation Army Bloom Initiative to develop capacity to strengthen anti-human trafficking services through the provision of culturally appropriate, trauma-informed, comprehensive, and survivor-informed services in colla… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/courtney-statement-new-court-ruling-ordering-va-make-retroactive Courtney Statement on New Court Ruling Ordering VA to Make Retroactive Payments to Blue Water Navy Vietnam Veterans and Their Survivors 2020-11-16 2020 2020-11 Democrat Senate CT Joe Courtney C001069 courtney.house.gov     legacy VERNON, CT Congressman Joe Courtney (CT-02) released the following statement today after the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announced that theyhave no plans tochallenge aNovember 5thFederal District Courtrulingthat ordersthe VA to make retroactive payments to Blue Water Navy Vietnam veterans and their survivors. The ruling comes following the passage and signing into lawof the Blue Water Navy Vietnam Veterans Act(H.R.299)in 2019,whichRep. Courtney co-introducedandthat codified VA eligibility for many veterans exposed to Agent Orange to finally receive the benefits they deserved.Thenew rulingwillensure thatthe VA not only grantsveterans filing new Agent Orange-related claims the benefits they have earned,as outlined in H.R.299,butthat they also identify andaward benefits and compensation to veterans and their estates who could have potentially filed claims in years past. This is a real victory for so many of our Vietnam veterans and their familieswho have fought tooth and nail for years to simply be granted the benefits theyrightfullyearned and deserve,said Congressman Courtney.Passage of our bipartisan Blue Water Navy Vietnam Veterans Act last yearfinallyopenedthe door,andthis newruling will ensure that thousands moreveteransand their familiesget the caretheyneedand the compensation they deserveafter years of being wrongfully denied.It's also encouraging tohear the VBA express that they intend to comply immediately with this new court decisionVBA ChiefPaul Lawrence has already stated that they're prepared to begin identifying eligible veterans and their families who could have been eligible for claims in the past. There's more work ahead to ensure that all veterans who encountered Agent Orange during their service get the compensation that our nation owes to them and their families.We were able to move the ball forward for them on a bipartisan basis this year,and much of that is thanks to Gerry Wright, a Vietnam Veteran from Andover who is a tireless, nationwide advocate for these servicemembers, and who I'… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delauro-endorsed-chair-appropriations-major-unions-leaders-education DeLauro Endorsed for Chair of Appropriations by Major Unions, Leaders in Education, Labor, Women and Childrens Protection and Advancement 2020-11-16 2020 2020-11 Democrat Senate CT Rosa DeLauro D000216 delauro.house.gov     legacy Critical Partners in Work to Secure a Better Tomorrow Express Confidence in DeLauro's Leadership, Ability to Unite Congress for the People WASHINGTON Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03), issued this statement thanking major union and organization leaders for their partnership and confidence in her ability to chair the House Appropriations Committee in the 117th Congress: We have our work cut out for us, but Congress cannot do it alone. As the United States continues to battle a pandemicwe have made little progress in defeating, fight to end racism in a real and meaningful way, and invest in our workers and families to repair our economy, we have to work together. Elected officials at every level need strong partnerships not just with their colleagues on the other side of the aisle but with the unions, organizations, and community groups doing the work on the ground. I am incredibly grateful to have the support of so many leaders who have been fighting for our communities for decades. These leaders embody the strength, tenacity, and selflessness that we will need to succeed. I have admired, learned from, and grown with them and know we will be successful in implementing many of the policies we crafted together. I am humbled and honored. Onward, together, toward a brighter future for all. Congresswoman DeLauro received the endorsements of AFT President Randi Weingarten, NEA President Becky Pringle, AFL-CIO President Richard L. Trumka, NWLC President Fatima Goss Graves, National Partnership President Debra Ness, and many others: AFL-CIO, Richard Trumka AFT, Randi Weingarten Afterschool Alliance, Jodi Grant American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) Communications Workers of America (CWA), Dan Mauer Council for Opportunity in Education, Kim Jones First Focus on Children, Bruce Lesley Linchpin Strategies, Catriona Macdonald Little Lobbyists, Elena Hung National Partnership for Women & Families, Debra Ness National Women's Law Center (NWLC), Fatima Gross Graves NEA, Becky Pringle SEIU, Ma… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/courtney-statement-explosion-west-haven-va-medical-center Courtney Statement on Explosion at the West Haven VA Medical Center 2020-11-13 2020 2020-11 Democrat Senate CT Joe Courtney C001069 courtney.house.gov     legacy NORWICH, CTRep. Joe Courtney (CT-02) released the following statement regarding the explosion that occurred this morning at the West Haven VA Medical Center: I am praying for all of those injured and involved in the explosion that occurred at the West Haven VA Medical Center this morning. My heart goes out to the VA center staff, our veterans, and all of the families who were impacted by this tragedy. My office and I are in touch with VA officials and local authorities as they continue to work to conduct an investigation, and we are monitoring the situation closely. ### 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delauro-calls-secretary-scalia-recuse-himself-anti-discrimination-action DeLauro Calls for Secretary Scalia to Recuse Himself from Anti-Discrimination Action Against the Oracle Corporation 2020-11-13 2020 2020-11 Democrat Senate CT Rosa DeLauro D000216 delauro.house.gov     legacy Additionally, DeLauro Urges Scalia to Order the Recusal of Deputy Secretary Pizzella and Solicitor O'Scannlain DeLauro in a letter to Secretary Scalia: The American people need to have confidence that its law enforcement officials are making decisions based on the rule of lawnot to advance the interests of a politically connected few. WASHINGTON, DC Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03), Chair of the Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Subcommittee, sent a letter to United States Department of Labor Secretary Eugene Scalia urging him to recuse himself from all matters related to the Department's anti-discrimination law enforcement action against the Oracle Corporation. The letter also urges the recusal of Deputy Secretary of Labor Patrick Pizzella and Solicitor of Labor Kate O'Scannlain from all matters related to that Oracle's enforcement. This letter follows DeLauro'sAugust 24, 2020, letterto Acting Inspector General Turner on reports of political interference in the reassignment of Regional Solicitor for San Francisco Janet Herold. In her letter, DeLauro wrote, In September 2020, OSC made an initial determination that there were reasonable grounds' to believe that Ms. Herold's involuntary reassignment was retaliatory and sought a stay of the reassignment. Based on my review of the evidence in this matter, I share the OSC's assessment that Ms. Herold's reassignment may be retaliatory, particularly because your office has yet to provide a satisfactory explanation for her transfer. The U.S. Office of Special Counsel (OSC) is currently investigating allegations by Regional Solicitor for the San Francisco Office Janet Herold that Secretary Scalia and Deputy Secretary Pizzella retaliated against her by involuntarily reassigning her because of her objections to Secretary Scalia's improper involvement in the Oracle anti-discrimination enforcement action. The American people need to have confidence that its law enforcement officials are making decisions based on the rule of la… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-davis-slam-trump-proposal-would-harm-social-security-disability Larson, Davis Slam Trump Proposal that Would Harm Social Security Disability Beneficiaries Attempting to Return to Work 2020-11-13 2020 2020-11 Democrat Senate CT John Larson L000557 larson.house.gov     legacy Washington, D.C. Today, House Ways and Means Social Security Subcommittee Chairman John B. Larson (D-CT) and Worker and Family Support Subcommittee Chairman Danny K. Davis (D-IL) sent a letter directing the U.S. Department of Labor to halt consideration of a proposed transfer of the Ticket to Work program from the Social Security Administration to the U.S. Department of Labor. The Ticket to Work program provides services to help Social Security and Supplemental Security Income disability beneficiaries who are attempting to return to work. In 1999, Congress placed the new Ticket to Work and Self-Sufficiency program (Ticket program) under the Social Security Administration (SSA), because of the close coordination between SSA and program participants, including beneficiaries and service providers, that is essential to the operation of the Ticket Program. Nothing has changed to warrant a transfer to the Department of Labor (DOL), wrote Larson and Davis. By law, the Department of Labor does not administer the Ticket program, continued Larson and Davis. We do not intend to consider legislation to remove the administration of the Ticket program from SSA and place it at DOL. We therefore expect the Department to halt any further consideration of this inappropriate and detrimental proposal. The full letter can be found here. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/courtney-s-bill-protect-educational-impact-aid-military-schoolchildren Courtneys Bill to Protect Educational Impact Aid for Military Schoolchildren Passes Senate, Delivered to White House for Signature 2020-11-12 2020 2020-11 Democrat Senate CT Joe Courtney C001069 courtney.house.gov     legacy NORWICH, CT Today, Congressman Joe Courtney's (CT-02) bipartisan bill to safeguard Educational Impact Aid for military schoolchildren amid the pandemic was passed by unanimous consent in the U.S. Senate, and delivered to the White House to be signed into law. Rep. Courtney's Impact Aid Coronavirus Relief Act (H.R. 8472) would ensure that Federal Impact Aid for public school districts with high concentrations of children of U.S. servicemembers will not be adversely affected by COVID-19. Courtney's bipartisan bill was first introduced on August 25th, and was passed in the House by unanimous consent on October 2nd. Eastern Connecticut is home to lots of military families with school-aged children, and their schools were at risk of losing this federal support at the worst possible time due to COVID-19, said Congressman Courtney. Without our bipartisan bill, schools like Groton and Ledyard in particular would have lost significant funding, and would have essentially been penalized for their decision to adopt remote and hybrid learning. Our eastern Connecticut schools absolutely could not afford to lose this funding for military schoolchildren, especially while local budgets are stretched so thin due to the pandemic. I'm grateful to my partner Rep. Dusty Johnson from Oklahoma for joining me to introduce this bipartisan bill, and for all our colleagues who helped work across the aisle to get this done. We're looking forward to getting a final signature on this important win for our local schools. Amid the complexity of returning to school this fall, many schools are worried that they will be unable to get an accurate headcount of eligible students, and that they will receive less funding than they deserve from the Impact Aid program as a result. Courtney's bipartisan bill requires the U.S. Department of Education to use last year's census of children of servicemembers when calculating the funding amount that local school districts will receive for the new 2021 school year. Rep. Courtney is a senior member of the House … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delauro-endorsed-fatima-goss-graves-president-and-ceo-national-women-s DeLauro Endorsed by Fatima Goss Graves, President and CEO of National Womens Law Center, for Chair of Appropriations in the 117th Congress 2020-11-12 2020 2020-11 Democrat Senate CT Rosa DeLauro D000216 delauro.house.gov     legacy Fatima Goss Graves: We look forward to fighting along your side as the next Chair of the Appropriations Committee for the future that we all deserve. WASHINGTON, DC Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03), Chair of the Labor, Health and Human Services, Education, and Related Agencies Appropriations Subcommittee, received the endorsement of Fatima Goss Graves, President and CEO of National Women's Law Center (NWLC) for Chair of the Appropriations Committee in the 117th Congress. Fatima Goss Graves is a dynamic, effective champion for women and families, and her confidence in my leadership means the world to me, said DeLauro. As a steadfast partner in the fight to invest in women in ways that meet the unique needs of this moment, Ms. Goss Graves' leadership is essential to helping our nation recover from the past four years, defeat the coronavirus pandemic, and create lasting change in a broad set of issues central to advancing opportunities for women and girls. Together, we will eliminate barriers and lift women and their families. The road ahead will not be easy, said Goss Graves. It will require investing in families, raising wages, and ensuring pay is more equal. It means addressing the care crisis before us a crisis that is foundational for our families and any economic recovery. It will require showing up for our access to health care, especially reproductive health care, which for too many people across the country is at a crisis level. It will take leadership that can move beyond false debates between progressives and moderates and put people first. I've had the chance to work with Representative DeLauro over the years as she fought with us to invest in and stabilize child care, on equal pay, for fair schedules, and paid leave, and a budget that serves women and families. We must invest in women in ways that meet the moment. In the midst of this pandemic, during uprisings around racial and gender justice we need leadership to get us through; she has put a marker down: Last summer she said: We are in a momen… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/op-eds-and-letters/what-we-need-do-next-defeat-covid-and-unify-country What we need to do next to defeat COVID and unify the country 2020-11-12 2020 2020-11 Democrat Senate CT John Larson L000557 larson.house.gov     legacy By Reps. John Larson and Joe Courtney This piece orginally appeared in The Hill on November 12, 2020. In a time of crisis, the United States has always come together! We are now in the midst of a war! We are fighting a common enemy that gives no quarter and that attacks indiscriminately. It cares not if you are Republican or Democrat. Our enemy is COVID-19. We need congressional action, an all-out effort to turn the tide of this war. We have already lost more than 238,000 Americans to the virus, which has infected more than 9 million Americans and caused unprecedented economic harm. Winning this war requires a national effort not 50 individual states fighting their own battles, but 50 UNITED states working in coordination. We can do this by adopting a strategic plan directed by Congress and developed by our scientists, doctors, and experts. No country is better equipped to defeat this virus than the United States. We have the resources, the doctors and experts, and the most resilient people. We know wearing masks and social distancing works. Now we need to enact legislation to deal with this crisis. Given the resources at our disposal there is no better organization than the U.S. military to execute the national coordination and logistical mobilization that will be required. Congress needs to act by supplying adequate use of resources so the military can carry out the mission. We need to initiate and direct the president to use the Defense Production Act to authorize the production of ventilators, N-95 respirator masks, and all necessary personal protective equipment. The Defense Production Act was created in during the Korean War to be used in times in crisis to expand the production of the materials and supplies to protect our country. This pandemic is global and threatens our national wellbeing. We must ensure a national production of materials that are essential to helping our frontline workers combat this virus. Our frontline troops are our doctors, nurses, health care aides, first responders, and grocery c… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/courtney-statement-release-senate-defense-appropriations-bill-without Courtney Statement on Release of Senate Defense Appropriations Bill Without Full Funding for Restoration of Second 2021 Virginia Class Submarine 2020-11-10 2020 2020-11 Democrat Senate CT Joe Courtney C001069 courtney.house.gov     legacy Norwich, CT Congressman Joe Courtney(CT-02), Chairman of the HouseSeapowerand Projection Forces Subcommittee, released the following statementaftertheSenate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defensereleased its draft Fiscal Year (FY) 2021 defense appropriations bill. The bill released today provides $472 million in partialfundingforconstruction ofthe secondVirginia-classsubmarinein FY21, while the House-passed NDAA and defense appropriations measures would fully fund the effort. Over the last ten years, sworn testimony before the Congress from combatant commanders, outside defense experts and Navy leadership has been unanimousthe Navy needs more submarines, Chairman Courtney said. The Trump Administration's last-minute and uninformed decision to remove a second 2021 Virginia class submarine from the budget this year capsized the two-per-year program of record for Virginia submarines that has been supported by Congress since 2011. Last July, the House took decisive action to reverse that decision, and fully support the Navy's top 2021 unfunded priorityrestoring the submarine that was axed. The Senate plan released today does not fix the problem, Courtney continued. It's proposed partial funding in 2021 is unworkable given the shipyard's schedules in future years for the Virginia and Columbia programs. Over and over again, Navy leaders such as Assistant Secretary Geurts and CNO Michael Gilday have testified at Committee that the best way to feasibly build this submarine is to fully fund it in 2021. The House NDAA and Defense Appropriations did the hard work of paying for this priority within the 2021 budget caps, and passed these bills on the floor of the full Housesomething which has not occurred in the Senate, even at the Committee level. As we continue our NDAA conference negotiations and work towards a final spending bill, I will continue towork with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle and the Capitol to underscore the urgency of this issue for our navy and our nation. Over the last month, several organizati… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-and-tillis-introduce-bipartisan-bicameral-legislation-to-help-veterans-with-legal-claims-against-va Blumenthal & Tillis Introduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Help Veterans With Legal Claims Against VA 2020-11-10 2020 2020-11 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov     legacy Blumenthal & Tillis Introduce Bipartisan, Bicameral Legislation to Help Veterans With Legal Claims Against VA Print Tweet Tuesday, November 10, 2020 [WASHINGTON, DC] U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Thom Tillis (R-NC), members of the Senate Armed Services and Veterans' Affairs Committees, introduced the Brian Tally VA Employment Transparency Act today, bipartisan legislation requiring the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to provide explicit, timely information in response to legal claims filed by veterans against the VA. The senators' legislation is named after Marine Veteran Brian Tally, who was unable to file a medical malpractice claim against his doctor because the VA failed to inform him until after the statute of limitations had passed that his doctor was a contractor and his claim needed to be filed in state court, leaving him with no legal recourse. This bipartisan, bicameral bill will rectify the VA's gross administrative neglect and restore legal options to our country's veterans when they are wronged by the VA or a VA contractor, said Blumenthal. It is simply unacceptable that the VA is failing to properly notify our country's veterans about their options when they file legal claims, essentially robbing them of their rights. Veterans must have the ability to seek legal recourse in cases of medical malpractice or other negligence period. Our veterans deserve the highest quality of care, regardless of where they receive that care or who provides it. Unfortunately, medical malpractice remains an issue at hospitals across the country, and veterans should havedue process rights if they experience malpractice,said Tillis. This bill ensures that veterans have the information they need to receive justice, whether they were treated by a VA employee or a contractor, and I look forward to working with my colleagues to get this bill signed into law. "I am incredibly honor… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delauro-endorsed-afl-cio-chair-appropriations-117th-congress DeLauro Endorsed by AFL-CIO for Chair of Appropriations in the 117th Congress 2020-11-09 2020 2020-11 Democrat Senate CT Rosa DeLauro D000216 delauro.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C. Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) issued this statement thanking Richard L. Trumka, President of the 12.5 million-member American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations (AFLCIO), for his support: Last week, President Richard Trumka delivered remarks that ended with a sentiment that will guide our work this Congress: We're powerful. We're united. And we're ready for change.' With the spread of COVID-19, Richard Trumka has never backed down from a fight for our workers, many of whom became poorer in this pandemic as billionaires saw their wealth expand. I am inspired by Richard Trumka, honored to have his support, and grateful for AFL-CIO's continued partnership. With Election Day behind us, we must all embody Richard Trumka's fighting spirit and focus our energy on living up to the promises we made to the people. We must fight not simply for an end to this pandemic and for full recovery from the past four years but for investments that create a better future for our workers and their families. AFL-CIO's endorsement of Congresswoman DeLauro to be the next Chair of the House Appropriations Committee follows the endorsements of AFT President Randi Weingarten, NEA President Becky Pringle, and many others. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://larson.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/larson-courtney-introduce-legislation-nationalize-production Larson, Courtney to Introduce Legislation to Nationalize Production & Distribution of Pandemic Supplies 2020-11-09 2020 2020-11 Democrat Senate CT John Larson L000557 larson.house.gov     legacy Hartford, CT Today, Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01) announced that he and Rep. Joe Courtney (CT-02) will be introducing legislation to nationalize the production and distribution of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), medical supplies, testing, vaccines and more to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. We are in the midst of a war against COVID. It's time for our country to come together to defeat this virus. We need national leadership. States shouldn't have to fight each other for supplies. By utilizing the Defense Production Act, we can work with the private sector to manufacture the necessary supplies. The Defense Logistics Agency can work hand in hand with Governors, Mayors, and the private sector to distribute the supplies and vaccines across the country. I'm pleased that President-elect Biden has established a COVID Task Force and Congress must work with him to move our nation forward, said Larson. Defeating the virus has always hinged on harnessing the strength of the federal government, a strategy that thus far has been underutilized said Congressman Courtney. While the private sector has been a crucial partner in COVID response, it is clear that the logistical and organization power of the federal government can play a bigger role in crushing the virus. For example, today's announcement that Pfizer's vaccine candidate is reported to be ninety percent effective is spectacular progress, but Pfizer's vaccine comes with the logistical challenge of supercold storage requirements. Existing distribution chains can't handle this requirement, but improving the role of the federal government can ensure that challenges like these are addressed in a systematic way that ensures equity nationwide. I'm proud to join Rep. John Larson in this important effort to help our communities overcome COVID-19, and am grateful for his continued leadership on this issue. The legislation will: Assess and identify the private sector's capacity to produce needed equipment; Invoke the Defense Production Act to the extent necessary to match th… 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/courtney-statement-associated-press-fox-news-cnn-nbc-and-more-announce Courtney Statement as the Associated Press, Fox News, CNN, NBC, and More Announce the Election of Joseph R. Biden as the 46th President of the United States of America 2020-11-07 2020 2020-11 Democrat Senate CT Joe Courtney C001069 courtney.house.gov     legacy VERNON, CT Today, Congressman Joe Courtney (CT-02) issued the following statement after the Associated Press, Fox News, CNN, NBC, and many more reported thatJoseph R. Bidenhas been elected to serve as the 46thPresident of the United States of America. This year,even in the face of an unprecedented global pandemic, Americanscame out to vote in record numbers,said Congressman Courtney.COVID-19 couldn't stop the American people from exercising their right to vote at the ballot box, and with morepeoplevoting inthis year'sPresidential Election than in any other in history, the will of the people couldn't have been more emphatically expressed. Eastern Connecticut was part of that movementover 370,000 votes were cast in the Second District, the highest ever recorded. Hard working, patriotic election officials across the country deserve tremendous credit for their stellar workunder extraordinary circumstances to ensure a fair and smooth election. Congratulations to President-elect Joe Biden on running a campaign that overwhelmingly reflected the values of the hard-working people here in eastern Connecticutone that was focused on the issues, and on bringing the American people together from both sides of the aisle to tackle the biggest challenges facing us today. It is time to embrace the result that, like in any election, one side has prevailed.The peaceful transfer of power is a cornerstone of this nation, our history, and our democracy.America is ready to moveforwardwitha new President, and to beginthe hard but necessary work of uniting our country. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://delauro.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/delauro-statement-election-president-elect-joe-biden-and-vice-president DeLauro Statement the Election of President-Elect Joe Biden and Vice President-Elect Kamala Harris 2020-11-07 2020 2020-11 Democrat Senate CT Rosa DeLauro D000216 delauro.house.gov     legacy WASHINGTON, D.C. Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro (CT-03) issued this statement on the election of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris: Today the American people won. Democracy won. By showing up in record numbers to vote for Joe Biden and Kamala Harris, Americans sent a clear message that they want leaders that will build a better tomorrow, foster unity, and fight for working families and our most vulnerable. Included in President-Elect Biden's plans are critical pieces of legislation I have been tirelessly working to passthe Child Tax Credit and equal pay for women among themthat finally see a clear path to becoming the law of the land. We have our work cut out for us, and the road to recovery is long, but Biden and Harris have a plan to lead us to a brighter tomorrow. Together, Democrats will deliver on our promises and create a better future for all. Today, we celebrate this historic victory. 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z
https://courtney.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/chairman-courtney-statement-navy-awards-contract-construct-first-ever Chairman Courtney Statement as Navy Awards Contract to Construct First Ever Columbia-Class Submarine to Grotons Electric Boat 2020-11-05 2020 2020-11 Democrat Senate CT Joe Courtney C001069 courtney.house.gov     legacy VERNON, CT Today,Congressman Joe Courtney (CT-02), Chairman of the House Armed Services Subcommittee onSeapowerand Projection Forces, released the following statement after the U.S. Navy officially awardedGeneral Dynamics Electric Boat the contract to construct the first ever, next-generation Columbia-class submarine. Courtney hasled and shepherded the creation of the Columbia-class program from bow to stern, beginning in2008 when he secured $8 million to initiate the first design conceptstudiesfor a new sea-based deterrent submarine.Today's contract award was made possible by a provision that Rep. Courtney worked to include in the House's short-term budget extension (H.R. 8337),click hereto learn more. Earlier today, Assistant Secretary of the Navy James F. Geurts provided Chairman Courtney's Seapower Subcommittee staff with a direct briefing on the new contract award. The Seapower Subcommittee has direct oversight of U.S. Navy shipbuilding, and as Chairman, Rep. Courtney has continued to build strong bipartisan support to see the Columbia-class Program through to launch. Today's announcement makes the hard work, planning and advocacy for this generational program real,said Chairman Courtney.This isn't just amilestone forthe shipbuilders at EBthe Columbia-classprogram willalsobe amajor opportunity for industry partners up and down the supply chainfor years to come, and a foundational piece for our region's economic future.Generations of shipbuilders and manufacturers will get their start working on this multi-decade program,and it's anexcitingtime to get more people into the pipeline for the jobs and opportunities that will come with the start of this effort. Thisaward was a long time coming, butitdidn't come without some challenges late in the game,Courtney added.Just a few weeks ago,we worked toensurethat thecontinuingresolution which prevented agovernmentshutdown included the funding the Navy needed to issue the contract on time. Despite the strong bipartisan support for Columbia,thiswasn't a givenIand other … 1 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z 2026-03-30T12:14:52Z

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