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

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54 rows where chamber = "Senate", state = "CT" and year = 2022 sorted by date descending

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  • 2022 · 54 ✖

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  • CT · 54 ✖

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  • Senate · 54 ✖
url title date ▲ year month party chamber state member_name bioguide_id domain scraper source date_source text has_text collected_at updated_at
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-releases-2022-end-of-year-report Murphy Releases 2022 End of Year Report 2022-12-30 2022 2022-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper HARTFORD–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) released his year-end report outlining the work he’s done for Connecticut residents during 2022: “2022 was Congress’s most productive year in decades. Personally, I was able to pass nearly a dozen pieces of legislation I authored and introduced to help people in Connecticut. This report captures just a glimpse of everything we’ve been able to accomplish. Breaking a thirty year political logjam, we passed a historic piece of gun safety legislation that has already saved lives. We took action to lower drug costs, tackle the climate crisis, invest in mental health, supercharge American manufacturing, and deliver millions in federal funding for our state. It’s my honor to represent the people of Connecticut every day in the Senate, and I look forward to continuing to work together in 2023.” Click here to download Senator Murphy’s 2022 Year in Review and here to watch his 2022 Year in Review video. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-highlights-stamfords-nourishedrx-as-innovator-of-the-month Murphy Highlights Stamford's NourishedRx as "Innovator of the Month" 2022-12-29 2022 2022-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper HARTFORD–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) announced that NourishedRx, based in Stamford, was named December’s “Innovator of the Month.” Founded in 2019, NourishedRx is a woman-owned company that bridges the gap between health care and nutrition through its AI-enabled platform, which matches individuals facing diet sensitive chronic health conditions or nutrition insecurity with highly personalized food solutions and nutrition consultations. NourishedRx has also established partnerships with multiple Medicare Advantage and Managed Medicaid plans to provide its services as part of an all-encompassing healthcare solution. “Access to nutritious foods is key to improving health outcomes. That’s why the team at NourishedRx is working to better integrate nutrition with health care through their evidence-based, AI-enabled platform. I’m proud to recognize their innovative approach toward addressing food insecurity, and look forward to their continued growth in Connecticut,” said Murphy. “Building our company in Connecticut has been wonderful. We’re grateful for the support and partnership of Connecticut Innovations and have enjoyed being part of UConn Technology Incubator Program (TIP). Being in CT is definitely helping us on our way to achieving our mission of improving lives, enhancing health equity and bending the health care cost curve,” said Lauren Driscoll, Founder and CEO of NourishedRx. Murphy believes entrepreneurship and innovation are the building blocks for a strong economy. In the U.S. Senate, he has introduced legislation to incentivize angel investors to put more money into startup companies—the Angel Tax Credit Act. Startup companies create an average of 2 million jobs each year. 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-cornyn-applaud-help-find-the-missing-act-signed-into-law Murphy, Cornyn Applaud Help Find the Missing Act Signed Into Law 2022-12-27 2022 2022-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and U.S. Senator John Cornyn (R-Texas) on Tuesday released the following statements after President Biden signed into law the Help Find the Missing Act, or “Billy’s Law”, legislation to close loopholes in America’s missing persons systems by streamlining the missing persons reporting process and ensuring that law enforcement databases are more accessible and comprehensive. The bill was co-sponsored by U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), John. Hoeven (R-N.D.), and Thom Tillis (R-N.C.). U.S. Representative Jahana Hayes (D-Conn.-05) introduced companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives. “When I first met Jan and Bill almost 15 years ago, I was inspired by their determination to fix a missing persons system that had repeatedly failed them during the search for their son Billy. I’m so proud to have worked with Senator Cornyn, Congresswoman Hayes, the Smolinskis, the family of Gabby Petito, and countless others to finally get this bill to the president’s desk. This is a big deal that is going to ensure the thousands of other families with missing loved ones won’t face the same obstacles going forward,” said Murphy. “For families who have exhausted all possible leads to find their loved one, improving the missing persons reporting process is essential,” said Cornyn. “This legislation will ensure local law enforcement can work swiftly and comprehensively to deliver justice to the families and friends of the missing, and I am proud of the bipartisan support that pushed this bill across the finish line.” Billy's Law was originally introduced in the House of Representatives in 2009 by then-Congressman Chris Murphy. The bill was conceived by Janice and Bill Smolinski of Cheshire, Connecticut, after their 31-year-old son Billy went missing from Waterbury, Connecticut. While working with law enforcement to locate their missing son, the Smolinskis faced countless systemic challenges, most significantly the incomplete and uncoordinated federal databases f… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-applauds-funding-for-connecticut-priorities-support-for-mental-health-electoral-count-reform-act-gun-violence-prevention-in-fy23-omnibus-appropriations-bill-passed-by-senate-today Murphy Applauds Funding For Connecticut Priorities, Support For Mental Health, Electoral Count Reform Act, Gun Violence Prevention In Fy23 Omnibus Appropriations Bill Passed By Senate Today 2022-12-22 2022 2022-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper Murphy Applauds Funding For Connecticut Priorities, Support For Mental Health, Electoral Count Reform Act, Gun Violence Prevention In Fy23 Omnibus Appropriations Bill Passed By Senate Today WASHINGTON–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee, on Wednesday released the following statement after U.S. Senate passage of the fiscal year 2023 Omnibus Appropriations bill, which will support Connecticut priorities, make investments in gun violence prevention, increase access to mental health care, fund programs for under-resourced communities, promote national security, and make important reforms to the Electoral Count Act of 1887. “Part of my job on the Appropriations Committee is making sure the budget we write funds Connecticut priorities. On top of the $236 million for local projects in Connecticut, this budget makes major investments in upgrading the Northeast Corridor, combating gun violence, supporting schools and under-resourced communities, and giving Connecticut manufacturers a major boost. It also includes my legislation to ensure the Housatonic River and the Highlands are protected for generations to come. This bill includes bipartisan mental health legislation I authored with a Republican colleague – reauthorizing and expanding many of the programs we created in 2016 – and also sends a clear signal that the United States remains steadfast in our support for the people of Ukraine, who have spent the last ten months at war,” said Murphy. Murphy added: “I’m also proud to have helped write the bipartisan legislation included in this bill that will reform the archaic process Congress uses to certify presidential elections and safeguard against future attempts to overturn the results of a fair election. Reforming the electoral count process won’t protect American democracy from all the threats we face, but it will help restore faith in our elections.” Murphy, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security, released a statement on th… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-blumenthal-announce-236-million-in-funding-for-connecticut-projects-in-omnibus-appropriations-bill Murphy, Blumenthal Announce $236 Million in Funding for Connecticut Projects in Omnibus Appropriations Bill 2022-12-22 2022 2022-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper Murphy, Blumenthal Announce $236 Million in Funding for Connecticut Projects in Omnibus Appropriations Bill WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee, and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) on Wednesday announced the inclusion of more than $236 million in the fiscal year 2023 Omnibus Appropriations bill passed by the U.S. Senate today. The bill, once passed by the U.S. House of Representatives and signed into law by President Biden, will fund 99 congressionally directed spending projects requested by Murphy and Blumenthal. “This was the year of getting things done for Connecticut, and I’m so proud that we are bringing home $236 million more for community-based projects in our state. This funding will help reduce gun violence in our communities, support small businesses and workforce development, improve water infrastructure, increase access to mental health services, and ensure the resiliency of our coastline communities. These investments are the result of thousands of conversations I’ve had with people across Connecticut, and they’re going to have a real positive impact on our communities,” said Murphy. “These targeted specific grants are a fantastic new year win for our state. Connecticut can now count on hundreds of millions of dollars for our most urgent needs—from reducing gun violence to increasing affordable housing to providing critical mental health services. This infusion of funds will be transformative for our state’s economic growth and quality of life. Think of them as smart, strategic investments, producing major dividends in health, education, roads, bridges and more. These projects will undoubtedly strengthen our communities and I am proud to have worked alongside Senator Murphy to deliver these invaluable investments to Connecticut,” said Blumenthal. In the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development, and Related Agencies Appropriations bill, there is more than $102 million for Connecticut projects, including: $12 million the Connecticu… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-blumenthal-applaud-senate-approval-of-sara-bronins-nomination-to-serve-as-advisory-council-on-historic-preservation Murphy, Blumenthal Applaud Senate Approval of Sara Bronin's Nomination to Serve as Chair of Advisory Council on Historic Preservation 2022-12-22 2022 2022-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) applauded Senate confirmation of Sara Bronin’s nomination to chair the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation. “Sara Bronin is an architect, attorney, and nationally-recognized expert on historic preservation – there is no one better suited to serve as chair of this council. I’m proud of the work she’s done to advance equity in Connecticut and the city of Hartford, and I’m confident she will bring the same expertise and passion to this new role. I’m thrilled to see her confirmed by the full Senate,” said Murphy. “Sara Bronin’s extraordinary expertise and experience as a preservation advocate and steward will make her an outstanding chair of the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation,” said Blumenthal. “Her commitment to this vital cause is demonstrated convincingly by her championing vulnerable community assets across Connecticut. In this new role, she will take this work to a national level.” As chair of the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation, Bronin will lead the agency in addressing policy issues, directing program initiatives, and making recommendations regarding historic preservation, enhancement, and sustainable use of our nation’s diverse historic resources to the President, Congress, and heads of other federal agencies. Last September, Blumenthal and Murphy introduced Bronin before her Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee Hearing. Sara Bronin is a Mexican-American architect, attorney, professor, and policymaker whose interdisciplinary work focuses on how law and policy can foster more equitable, sustainable, well-designed, and connected places. She is a Professor of the Cornell College of Architecture, Art, and Planning, an Associated Faculty Member of the Cornell Law School, and a Faculty Fellow of the Cornell Atkinson Center for Sustainability. Bronin is also an elected member of the American Law Institute and leads the research team behind the groundbreaking Connecticut Zoning Atlas, the first in… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/connecticut-and-rhode-island-congressional-delegations-seek-more-support-for-farmers-impacted-by-drought-in-new-omnibus-bill Connecticut and Rhode Island Congressional Delegations Seek More Support for Farmers Impacted by Drought in New Omnibus Bill 2022-12-21 2022 2022-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON,—As Congress works to finalize the FY 2023 Omnibus appropriations package, U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and U.S. Representative Joe Courtney (D-Conn.-02), and the Connecticut and Rhode Island Congressional Delegations are pressing for additional funding to assist New England livestock feed producers and other farmers impacted by severe drought conditions. Today, Courtney and Murphy shared a letter they sent to House and Senate appropriators along with Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Jack Reed (D-R.I.) and Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), and Reps. David Cicilline (D-R.I.-01), Jahana Hayes (D-Conn.-05), Jim Himes (D-Conn.-04), Jim Langevin (D-R.I.-02) and John B. Larson (D-Conn.-01), urging them to replenish funds for critical USDA disaster relief programs and to expand relief to cover farmers’ losses in 2022, in addition to 2021 and 2020. Click here to read the full letter. In August, the USDA announced a primary agricultural disaster designation for counties Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island due to severe drought conditions. The designation allowed many farmers and producers to access critical disaster relief loans through the USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA), as well as other important USDA relief programs. However, in their letter, the coalition highlighted that certain critical producers still need assistance: “We are thankful that these various [USDA] programs are available to help impacted producers in our States, but we are concerned that some producers have been left out of this assistance. Specifically, livestock forage (feed) producers are in dire need of help.” According to the FSA’s Connecticut Division and the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management, the drought has impacted the availability of feed and silage for agricultural producers. Some have reported losses of average hay production as high as 55%. The FSA warns that this could cause large price increases for many agricultural products this winter, and that the regional feed shortage will have ripp… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-adams-introduce-legislation-to-promote-gender-equity-in-sports Murphy, Adams Introduce Legislation to Promote Gender Equity in Sports 2022-12-20 2022 2022-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, and U.S. Representative Alma Adams (D-N.C.-12), a member of the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Education and Labor, on Tuesday introduced legislation to promote gender equity in college and K-12 sports. The Fair Play for Women Act would promote fairness and equity in participation opportunities and institutional support for women's and girls' sports programs, ensure transparency and public reporting of data by college and K-12 athletic programs, hold athletic programs and athletic associations more accountable for Title IX violations and discriminatory treatment, and improve education and awareness of Title IX rights among college and K-12 athletes as well as athletics staff. U.S. Representatives Lori Trahan (D-Mass.-03) and Suzanne Bonamici (D-Ore.-01) co-sponsored the legislation. “It’s no secret there’s still a huge gap in resources and opportunities between women’s sports and men’s sports – it’s a Title IX violation hiding in plain sight. Our bill would ensure sports programs for women and girls finally get the support they’re entitled to, increase transparency and accountability of schools and athletic associations, and make sure athletes are aware of their Title IX rights and how to exercise them. I’m proud to be working with Representatives Adams, Trahan, and Bonamici on this important piece of legislation to fulfill the promise of Title IX in college and K-12 athletics,”said Murphy. “I am proud to introduce the Fair Play for Women Act, which would make updates to the Title IX to address gaps in the law and keep Title IX strong for generations of women to come,” said Adams. “As a legislator for three decades, high school athlete, and a college professor at a women’s college for more than 40 years, I have fought not only to support Title IX and its positive impact on college athletics and other collegiate programs, but also to make sure the law continues to give women t… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-announces-subcommittee-on-homeland-security-fiscal-year-2023-appropriations-bill Murphy Announces Subcommittee On Homeland Security Fiscal Year 2023 Appropriations Bill 2022-12-20 2022 2022-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–The fiscal year 2023 Homeland Security bill provides a total discretionary level of $60.7 billion, which is $3.2 billion more than the fiscal year 2022 enacted level. The bill supports critical steps to: help communities both recover from disasters and rebuild for resiliency; combat the flow of illegal firearms and narcotics while facilitating legitimate trade and travel; disrupt forced labor through increased enforcement to detect and seize goods manufactured through modern day slavery; and create a more humane and safe environment for both noncitizens seeking asylum and our nation’s dedicated front-line law enforcement managing our borders. U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Chair of the Subcommittee on Homeland Security, said: “If we’re going to ensure the Department of Homeland Security has the resources it needs to tackle threats to our national security and manage our borders we need to pass a full year budget. This bill is a reasonable compromise, and I’m proud of the investments it would make in the responsible management of our border, the protection of our nation from cyber threats, and the protection of our coastlines and airports. Also, for the first time ever, this bill includes dedicated funding to stop the flow of illegal firearms going south across our border. It's time for Republicans to step up and get our government off endless, hurtful continuing resolutions, and I look forward to working across the aisle to get this done.” Key Points & Highlights Investments at DHS with a Global Impact: Domestic investments at DHS have the potential to result in global impacts across a number of key challenges facing the world in areas ranging from climate change, forced labor, and trafficking of narcotics and firearms. · Building Environmental Resiliency. The bill includes $45 million for Coast Guard investments to expand operations in the Indo-Pacific in order to promote economic prosperity, environmental resiliency, and lawful access to the region’s maritime environment. It will also buil… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-reintroduces-bill-to-forgive-student-loan-debt-for-beginning-farmers Murphy Reintroduces Bill to Forgive Student Loan Debt for Beginning Farmers 2022-12-19 2022 2022-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, on Monday reintroduced the Student Loan Forgiveness for Farmers and Ranchers Act, legislation to create a loan forgiveness program for beginning farmers and ranchers, as well as women, veteran, and minority farmers. Student loan debt is a major hurdle for beginning farmers, and this legislation would serve as an incentive for farmers to enter—and stay—in the agricultural industry, and strengthen opportunities to grow successful businesses. U.S. Senators Tina Smith (D-Minn.) and Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.) co-sponsored the legislation. “Starting and maintaining a new farm is tough, expensive work. Too often, young farmers are saddled with thousands in student loan debt and can’t afford to make the investments necessary for success. Connecticut farms are key to the health of our rural communities and the future of food security, and this legislation would help more people start and stay in farming,” said Murphy. "The Student Loan Forgiveness for Farmers and Ranchers Act provides a path out of debt for many young and beginning farmers who haven't been able to see one before. Held back by existing debt making financing complicated-- on top of climate crisis, input, and living costs-- passing this act will open the possibility of becoming a full-time farmer and/or rancher to many who would be, but for having repayment of existing loans in their way. National Young Farmers Coalition supports Senator Murphy's commitment to easing some of the unprecedented debt burden currently hindering our next generation of food growing to feed our communities and protect the land as its stewards,” said Vanessa Garcia Polanco, Policy Campaigns Co-Director, National Young Farmers Coalition. In Connecticut, approximately 30% of producers are considered “beginning farmers,” meaning they are operating a farm with less than 10 years of experience. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-applauds-inclusion-of-diplomatic-security-and-support-act-in-ndaa-passage Murphy Applauds Inclusion of Diplomatic Security and Support Act in NDAA Passage 2022-12-16 2022 2022-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, on Thursday applauded the inclusion of the Diplomatic Support and Security Act as part of the Department of State Authorization Act, which was included in the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) of 2022: “Many of the conflicts we’re facing overseas have complicated political and economic roots and cannot be solved through military force. Our highly skilled and capable troops are trained as fighters – not diplomats. It’s time to get the State Department out of its bunker mentality, and I’m glad this bipartisan legislation will ensure we take full advantage of every tool in our foreign policy toolkit,” said Murphy. Earlier this week, Murphy highlighted consequences of the United States continuing to ignore the value of nonmilitary foreign policy tools while our adversaries increase investments in development finance, international media, energy, and diplomacy. Last March, Murphy introduced the Expeditionary Diplomacy Act, legislation to ensure we have sufficient diplomatic and political expertise on the ground in fragile states and conflict zones. The committee-passed version of the Diplomatic Support and Security Act included in the NDAA merges elements of the Expeditionary Diplomacy Act and related legislation introduced by Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho). ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/billys-law-passes-house-heads-to-presidents-desk Billy’s Law Passes House, Heads to President’s Desk 2022-12-15 2022 2022-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) on Wednesday applauded House passage of the bipartisan Help Find the Missing Act or “Billy’s Law,” which will now be sent to the President’s desk for his signature. This legislation, which passed the Senate last week, will close loopholes in America’s missing persons systems by streamlining the missing persons reporting process and ensuring that law enforcement databases are more accessible and comprehensive. U.S. Representative Jahana Hayes (D-Conn.-05) introduced companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives. “This moment has been 15 years in the making, and I’m so proud that thanks to the Smolinskis’ persistence, Billy’s Law is headed for the President’s desk to be signed into law. This legislation will ensure that families facing the uncertainty and heartache of a loved one’s disappearance are no longer burdened by unnecessary obstacles in their search for answers and closure,” said Murphy. Billy's Law was originally introduced in the House of Representatives in 2009 by then-Congressman Chris Murphy. The bill was conceived by Janice and Bill Smolinski of Cheshire, Connecticut, after their 31-year-old son Billy went missing from Waterbury, Connecticut. While working with law enforcement to locate their missing son, the Smolinskis faced countless systemic challenges, most significantly the incomplete and uncoordinated federal databases for missing persons and unidentified remains. Billy's Law was introduced to address those challenges and help ensure that the tens of thousands of American families whose loved ones go missing each year do not experience the same hurdles faced by the Smolinskis. Full text of the bill is available here. A section-by-section of the bill is available here. A one-pager of the bill is available here. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-condemns-government-of-iran-urges-passage-of-resolution-supporting-protestors Murphy Condemns Government of Iran, Urges Passage of Resolution Supporting Protestors 2022-12-14 2022 2022-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Chairman of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on Near East, South Asia, Central Asia, and Counterterrorism, on Wednesday condemned Iran’s public executions and called for swift passage of a resolution commending the bravery, courage, and resolve of the women and men of Iran demonstrating in more than 80 cities and risking their safety to speak out against the Iranian regime's human rights abuses. “I strongly condemn the gruesome public executions carried out by Iran, which serve as a harsh reminder of the nature of this regime. More than 16,000 Iranian protestors have been detained – mostly young people and women, who have been at the forefront of this movement – and at least eleven are currently facing the death sentence. The courage of the Iranian people putting their lives at risk for freedom is nothing short of extraordinary. The Senate should pass this bipartisan resolution to demand justice and make sure the world doesn’t lose focus on the horrific abuses taking place in Iran. Just as we stood together with the people of Ukraine during their revolution of dignity, the United States must continue standing with the people of Iran and call on Iranian authorities to immediately end their violence against protestors and release all unjustly detained citizens,” said Murphy. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-statement-on-tenth-anniversary-of-sandy-hook Murphy Statement on Tenth Anniversary of Sandy Hook 2022-12-14 2022 2022-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) on Wednesday released the following statement on the tenth anniversary of the tragic shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School: "The nation is a different place, ten years since twenty innocent children and six dedicated educators were senselessly killed inside Sandy Hook Elementary School. Mostly today, I will think of all the greatness and beauty that was robbed from this world, when these promising lives were cut short. Mostly, I will spend my day today sending every good thought I have to the family members who lost loved ones that day, to the survivors of the shooting, to the first responders, and to the community of Newtown that will never be the same. But also today, I will be thankful. I will be thankful for all the good that has resulted from this horror. Those parents, and the community of Newtown, have chosen to rise from that tragedy and build dozens of efforts that have changed lives for the better all over our nation. And many in Newtown have helped build the modern anti-gun violence movement, that finally this summer achieved the first federal gun safety bill in almost thirty years. “Today, I'm so sad for what we lost. But I'm also so inspired and hopeful for all the grace and kindness that has grown out of tragedy, and for all that will come in the future." ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/-murphy-op-ed-americas-epidemic-of-loneliness-is-a-crisis-policymakers-need-to-take-seriously Murphy Op-Ed: America's Epidemic of Loneliness is a Crisis Policymakers Need to Take Seriously 2022-12-13 2022 2022-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) authored an op-ed for The Bulwark on the epidemic of loneliness, why it should matter to policymakers, and policy solutions Congress should pursue. Despite being more connected than ever through social media and virtual communication, Americans are experiencing higher levels of aloneness (fewer social contacts) and higher levels of loneliness (feelings of isolation), and Murphy argues that the modern neoliberal American order has exacerbated these trends. Murphy highlighted the two most significant factors contributing to America’s epidemic of loneliness. On technology and social media, Murphy wrote: “First, for all the promise of technology to more seamlessly connect us to peers and new friends, it has in fact left many Americans—especially young people—feeling more alone than ever. Put simply, we have learned that digital communication cannot replace the value of in-person experience… Further, the use of social media, which once seemed to promise an antidote to loneliness, can create resentments that further breed feelings of isolation.” On the second factor driving loneliness, the erosion of local communities: “Personal meaning often comes from the groupings we create or join, and connection through institutions helps us construct an identity and sense of purpose. It’s both the connection and the meaning derived from group identity that matters. But many large trends have badly weakened local institutions. Among them is globalization, which has drained local economies and diminished the local cultures that facilitate connection, identity, and meaning.” Murphy laid out potential policy solutions decrease American isolation, starting with legislation to rein in Big Tech: “First, why not acknowledge that the consequences of technology’s unstinting advance are not value-neutral, and steer technology companies toward products that breed happiness, not anxiety and loneliness? I know this sounds like a herculean task, but there are already efforts underway to better p… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-baldwin-bipartisan-group-of-senators-call-on-fda-to-support-farmers-goals-of-reducing-enteric-methane-emissions Murphy, Baldwin, Bipartisan Group of Senators Call on FDA to Support Farmers' Goals of Reducing Enteric Methane Emissions 2022-12-12 2022 2022-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) joined U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.) and a bipartisan group of Senate colleagues in a letter to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) encouraging the agency to review the role that animal feed additives play in achieving the Biden Administration’s goal of halving economy-wide greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) by 2030 in order to reach net zero by 2050. In their letter, the Senators note that the FDA has not yet approved any feed additives to achieve this goal despite the potential for these products to provide farmers with additional tools to reduce a large share of their operations’ GHG footprint and create a level playing field with their European and Brazilian competitors. “The FDA must work to review the role that animal feed additives play in lowering enteric emissions so that farmers have more resources at their disposal to achieve their proposed GHG reductions and compete on a global scale with producers who already have access to feed additives,” wrote the Senators. The letter was co-led by Senators Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.) and Jerry Moran (R-Kan.), and also signed by Senators Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Bob Casey (D-Pa.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa), John Hickenlooper (D-Colo.), Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Tina Smith (D-Minn.), and Debbie Stabenow (D-Mich.). Full text of the letter is available here and below. Dear Dr. Califf: We write to you today regarding the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) role in achieving President Biden’s goal of halving economy-wide greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) by 2030 in order to reach net zero by 2050. Meeting these targets will require innovation and coordination with industry from every federal agency, and the FDA is uniquely positioned to provide climate solutions to the agriculture industry in reducing enteric methane emissions. Both the dairy and cattle industries have committed to reducing the… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-lamont-delegation-announce-32-million-federal-grant-to-support-workforce-development-in-public-health Murphy, Lamont, Delegation Announce $32 Million Federal Grant to Support Workforce Development in Public Health 2022-12-09 2022 2022-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper HARTFORD – U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Governor Ned Lamont today announced that the Connecticut Department of Public Health has been awarded a $32,253,484 grant from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) that will be used to support the state agency’s newly launched Office of Public Heath Workforce Development. The initiative was created by Public Health Commissioner Manisha Juthani, MD, in August and is operating directly out of her office. It will have a broad focus on ensuring that the workforce development needs at state, local, and nonprofit public health agencies are met, specifically regarding future pipeline development academic and professional training, standards of practice, and workforce diversification. The federal funding was awarded through the CDC’s Strengthening U.S. Public Health Infrastructure, Workforce, and Data Systems grant, which is a groundbreaking investment that supports critical public health infrastructure needs of jurisdictions across the United States. The governor made the announcement during a news conference that was held at Gateway Community College in New Haven, which is one of the schools of the Connecticut State College and Universities (CSCU) system that will be developing new pathways to public health care careers with new associates degree and certificate programs in public health. “The COVID-19 pandemic made clear that our ability to respond to public health threats hinges on the people in our local, state, and federal health departments. From day one, they have been in the trenches, working tirelessly to keep our families and communities safe. This grant will help support these dedicated public servants and ensure we have the workforce we need to respond to future public health emergencies,” said Senator Murphy. “This is a first-of-its-kind investment of more than $32 million over the next five years that will specifically and directly support the Connecticut public health workforce,” Governor Lamont said. “Additionally, more than $12… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-we-are-on-a-glide-path-to-pass-an-847-billion-defense-budget-through-a-fundamentally-broken-and-worrying-process Murphy: We Are On A Glide Path to Pass An $847 Billion Defense Budget Through A Fundamentally Broken and Worrying Process 2022-12-09 2022 2022-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–U.S Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Chairman of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on Near East, South Asia, Central Asia and Counterterrorism and a member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee, spoke on the U.S. Senate floor to highlight the broken Senate floor process through which the U.S. Senate held no debate or votes on amendments this year but still added over 2,400 pages of non-defense policy to the final National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). Murphy also highlighted the consequences of the United States continuing to ignore the value of nonmilitary foreign policy tools while our adversaries increase investments in development finance, international media, energy, and diplomacy. Murphy laid out why the current NDAA process is broken and ineffective: “The first thing that happens – particularly this year – is that many, many big, important pieces of policy get added to the defense bill. Some of them are good policy, but some of them aren't. But there is no democratic process in which members of this body get to review what's added to the defense bill. There's no notification of rank and file members so that we can provide input. Now again, as I understand it, the Armed Services Committee doesn't want to be in this position. They'd rather just have a vote on their original bill, as we did for decades until just recently, when all of this extra policy got added to the defense bill. But because today there are so few avenues for that other legislation to find a path through the floor, in large part because Republicans are using the filibuster to clog up the floor of the Senate, the defense bill becomes this kind of evacuation helicopter, carrying all the passengers that can fit in it.” Murphy continued: “For the first time this year, there are more pages in the defense bill dedicated to non-defense items, than to defense items. Now, this might be acceptable if senators could offer amendments on the floor, remove parts of the bill we don't like, make other parts better. At le… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/after-years-of-advocacy-senate-passes-billys-law After Years of Advocacy, Senate Passes 'Billy's Law' 2022-12-08 2022 2022-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) on Thursday applauded Senate passage of the bipartisan Help Find the Missing Act or “Billy’s Law.” This legislation will close loopholes in America’s missing persons systems by streamlining the missing persons reporting process and ensuring that law enforcement databases are more accessible and comprehensive. Billy's Law was originally introduced in the House of Representatives in 2009 by then-Congressman Chris Murphy. The bill was conceived by Janice and Bill Smolinski of Cheshire, Connecticut, after their 31-year-old son Billy went missing from Waterbury, Connecticut. While working with law enforcement to locate her missing son, the Smolinskis faced countless systemic challenges, most significantly federal databases about missing persons and unidentified remains that were incomplete and uncoordinated. Billy's Law was introduced to address those challenges and help ensure that the tens of thousands of American families whose loved ones go missing each year do not experience the same hurdles faced by the Smolinskis. “I met the Smolinskis when I was first elected to Congress. I was outraged by the obstacles they faced in searching for their missing son Billy and inspired by their determined fight for change. There are thousands of families like the Smolinskis who are forced to navigate a broken missing persons system while dealing with the unthinkable heartache of a loved one’s disappearance. I’ve introduced this commonsense fix every Congress since 2009, and I’m grateful to my colleagues, Billy’s family, the family of Gabby Petito, and countless other families searching for their loved ones for their efforts to get this bill across the finish line in the Senate. I look forward to this legislation passing in the House and heading to the President’s desk,” said Murphy. Full text of the bill is available here. A section-by-section of the bill is available here. A one-pager of the bill is available here. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-blumenthal-delauro-himes-announce-13-million-in-federal-funding-for-connecticut-coastal-resiliency-projects Murphy, Blumenthal, DeLauro, Himes Announce $1.3 Million in Federal Funding for Connecticut Coastal Resiliency Projects 2022-12-08 2022 2022-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), U.S. Representative Rosa DeLauro (D-Conn.-03), and U.S. Representative Jim Himes (D-Conn.-04) announced three costal resiliency projects in Connecticut have been selected to receive grants from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF), totaling more than $1 million. These grants were awarded through the National Coastal Resiliency Fund, which received $492 million in funding over five years from Congress through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law passed in 2021. “Connecticut’s shoreline is vital to the economic success and identity of our state, but climate change presents an increasingly dangerous threat to our coastal communities. Thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we can now fund projects that will ensure those communities are safe and resilient, and the shoreline remains an asset for Connecticut for generations to come,” said Murphy. “Connecticut’s shoreline communities must be prepared and equipped to withstand extreme weather and the ever-growing threat of climate change. I am proud to have fought for these investments in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to preserve and enhance our state’s coastal habitats and reduce the impacts of flooding and erosion. These critical projects will make our communities stronger and help protect them from the devastating impacts of climate change,” said Blumenthal. “With global warming an ever increasing crisis, coastal resiliency projects are vital to protecting families, natural resources, and animals in Connecticut,” said DeLauro. “In Connecticut’s Third Congressional District, I am proud to see the City of West Haven awarded a grant for Assessing Nature-Based Solutions to Mitigate Flood Impacts along the Cove River (CT). The Cove River connects several regions in Connecticut and requires us to address the threat of floods with real solutions – it is a valuable component of our community. These grant… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-highlights-east-hartfords-vrsim-as-innovator-of-the-month Murphy Highlights East Hartford's VRSim as "Innovator of the Month" 2022-12-05 2022 2022-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper HARTFORD–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) announced that VRSim, based in East Hartford, was named November’s “Innovator of the Month.” VRSim is a leading provider of virtual reality (VR) training solutions for skilled trades. Since 2001, VRSim has been a pioneer of practical applications of VR training, with existing products available for paint and coating application (SimSpray®), welding (VRTEX®), construction trades (SimBuild™), and an all-new CNA/Patient Care Skills system (VRNA™) to be later released. These systems are equipped with intuitive and immersive training that feature kinesthetic activity, built-in progress tracking, skills assessments, scoring, feedback, and instructional guidance. These training solutions have been used in programs for high schools, technical colleges, vocational training and workforce development initiatives to equip workers with the skills necessary to secure jobs and succeed in fields like manufacturing, construction, robotics, and healthcare. “Investing in workforce development is crucial to growing our economy. The team at VRSim is developing new tools to help give workers in Connecticut the skills they need to secure good-paying jobs. I’m proud to recognize their innovative work, and look forward to seeing their growth in our state,” said Murphy. “East Hartford has served our team well as the world headquarters of VRSim. We know we can count on the community and leaders to support us with resources and services so that we are able to put forth the best products in our industry,” said Matthew Wallace, CEO and President of VRSim. The company demonstrates their commitment to the local community through educational outreach and industry partnerships; most recently with the East Hartford Public Schools, who plan to introduce VRNA as part of their health sciences CTE program in the coming months. Murphy believes entrepreneurship and innovation are the building blocks for a strong economy. In the U.S. Senate, he has introduced two bipartisan pieces of legislation to incenti… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:32:05Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-van-hollen-reintroduce-legislation-to-protect-consumers-from-medical-debt Murphy, Van Hollen Reintroduce Legislation to Protect Consumers from Medical Debt 2022-11-30 2022 2022-11 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) on Wednesday reintroduced legislation to strengthen consumer protections and reform medical debt practices. The Strengthening Consumer Protections and Medical Debt Transparency Act would put in place standard practices to make sure that health care entities communicate with consumers about any debt that is owed and cap the annual interest rate growth for medical debt. The legislation also directs the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to create a public database to collect information from health care entities about their debt collection practices. “Forcing people to go bankrupt just because they get sick is immoral - plain and simple,” said Murphy. “We need to shed light on the hospitals out there who are abusing patients with overly aggressive debt collection practices. I hope we can get our legislation to increase transparency and reform hospital practices across the finish line.” “When folks are sick or in the hospital the last thing they should be worried about is whether they’ll lose their house or their wages for seeking care. But for many Americans these concerns are top of mind as medical debt has taken a devastating toll on hard-working families. I’m proud to team up with Senator Murphy to enhance consumer protections and stop the unjust, exploitative practices used to collect medical debt. This legislation puts safeguards in place to ensure transparency, cap interest rates, and keep the focus on patients’ health and wellbeing so they can get the care they need,” said Van Hollen. A report from the Kaiser Family Foundation this summer found that medical debt was a widespread issue impacting an estimated 41% of Americans — or about 100 million adults. The report also found that in their efforts to pay what was owed, adults report making “a number of sacrifices and enduring substantial financial consequences.” And those with lower incomes and people of color were more likely to report being contacted by collecti… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/as-temperatures-drop-murphy-blumenthal-leahy-sanders-king-urge-energy-secretary-granholm-to-develop-a-plan-to-prevent-energy-disruptions-in-new-england As Temperatures Drop, Murphy, Blumenthal, Leahy, Sanders, King Urge Energy Secretary Granholm to Develop a Plan to Prevent Energy Disruptions in New England 2022-11-29 2022 2022-11 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–As the winter months approach, U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), and Angus King (I-Maine) on Tuesday urged the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to proactively develop a plan to prevent energy disruption and price hikes. In a letter to Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm, the senators ask the Secretary to work with stakeholders to mitigate the risk of price hikes and a shortage of natural gas, liquefied natural gas (LNG), and heating oil. “ISO New England, the region’s grid operator, has warned that colder-than-usual conditions could put the reliability of the grid at risk - perhaps even leading to extreme measures like rolling blackouts. This could be devastating, particularly during the coldest days of winter. While the region’s overreliance on natural gas has long been an issue, the continued global disruption caused by the Russian invasion of Ukraine means the risk is more urgent than ever,” the senators wrote. The senators continued: “Even if the lights stay on throughout our winter months, the price instability caused by the region’s reliance on the spot market could have devastating impacts on New England residents who already face some of the highest energy costs in the continental U.S.” “Given the gravity of these concerns, we urge you to convene key stakeholders, including the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), ISO New England, New England governors, public utility officials, generators, suppliers, and utilities to mitigate these risks. Additionally, we ask that you leverage resources within the Department of Energy to identify barriers to bringing non-fossil fuel energy online as quickly as possible. Lastly, we ask that you work across the Executive Branch to review the emergency powers available to the Department of Energy and other agencies to ensure New England has the resources needed to get through the winter without major supply disruptions or price spikes,” the senators concluded. Read the full… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-applauds-senate-passage-of-respect-for-marriage-act Murphy Applauds Senate Passage of Respect for Marriage Act 2022-11-29 2022 2022-11 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) on Tuesday released the following statement after the U.S. Senate passed the Respect for Marriage Act, legislation to protect federal marriage equality for same-sex and interracial couples and repeals the discriminatory Defense of Marriage Act: “Every person deserves the right to marry who they love. Thankfully, this is the clear consensus position in America today, and it’s why marriage equality has been the law of the land in Connecticut for over a decade. This legislation is unfortunately necessary to protect marriage equality from increasingly radical Republican judges and ensure that no one faces discrimination because of who they married.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-urges-noaa-to-incorporate-connecticut-stakeholder-feedback-in-bipartisan-infrastructure-law-and-inflation-reduction-act-implementation Murphy Urges NOAA to Incorporate Connecticut Stakeholder Feedback in Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act Implementation 2022-11-28 2022 2022-11 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) sent a letter to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) sharing feedback he received from stakeholders on ways to improve NOAA’s implementation of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the Inflation Reduction Act. The agency has historically provided funding for shovel-ready projects that protect coasts, improve water quality, and support shoreline communities. To improve implementation of funds provided in this legislation, Murphy encouraged NOAA to do the following: 1. Extend application windows to allow potential grant recipients to prepare the strongest possible applications, ensuring the projects NOAA eventually funds will be more impactful and shovel-ready. 2. Continue to provide funding for research, data, and evaluation that will be critical to identifying the areas of greatest need, the most effective project designs, and promoting best practices. 3. Emphasize and fund capacity building of state agencies, research programs, institutions of higher education, and non-profit entities to better help states and town implement these new investments and execute the policy changes envisioned in these bills. “I appreciate your consideration of these perspectives and your agency’s ongoing partnership. The activities and projects funded through both the IIJA and the IRA will help protect our coasts, support fisheries, and improve water quality for years to come,” he wrote. Full text of the letter is available here. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-on-state-of-the-union-we-need-to-have-a-conversation-about-the-60-percent-of-counties-refusing-to-implement-gun-safety-laws Murphy On State of the Union: We Need To Have A Conversation About The 60 Percent Of Counties Refusing To Implement Gun Safety Laws 2022-11-27 2022 2022-11 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) on Sunday joined CNN’s State of the Union with Dana Bash to discuss next steps for the gun violence prevention movement in the wake of the tragic shootings in Colorado and Virginia. On the potential to pass an assault weapons ban, Murphy said: “I'm glad that President Biden is going to be pushing us to take a vote on an assault weapons ban. The House has already passed it. It's sitting in front of the Senate. Does it have 60 votes in the Senate right now? Probably not. But let's see if we can try to get that number as close to 60 as possible. If we don't have the votes, then we'll talk to Senator Schumer and maybe come back next year with maybe an additional senator and see if we can do better.” Murphy continued: “If we passed an assault weapons ban, we would see less mass shootings in this country. Yes, there are already tens of thousands of assault weapons on the street. Nobody's talking about taking those weapons away from individuals. We're just talking about stopping new sales, but if you look at some of the most high profile mass shootings in the last couple of years, many of those mass shooters bought the weapon just days before carrying out the crime. And so if those weapons were no longer commercially available, only in possession of those who had bought them previously, I think a lot of mass shootings would have been prevented.” Murphy highlighted that Colorado Springs is a so-called “Second Amendment sanctuary” county, which means they refuse to implement state and federal gun safety laws like Colorado’s red flag law. Murphy proposed requiring counties to certify that they enforce state and federal gun laws in order to be eligible for Department of Justice (DOJ) Byrne JAG grants: “The majority of counties in this country have declared that they are not going to enforce state and federal gun laws. They have decided that they are going to essentially refuse to implement laws that are on the books. That is a growing problem in this country…I think we have … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-pallone-call-on-biden-administration-to-swiftly-deliver-funding-to-promote-coastal-resilience Murphy, Pallone Call on Biden Administration to Swiftly Deliver Funding to Promote Coastal Resilience 2022-11-22 2022 2022-11 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and U.S. Representative Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-N.J.-06) on Tuesday urged the Biden Administration to quickly implement investments in living shoreline projects from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and Inflation Reduction Act. In a letter to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Administrator Richard W. Spinrad, Murphy and Pallone called on the agency to use the funding allocated in the laws to directly support projects that will protect and restore coastal and marine habitats. The investments in living shoreline projects from the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and Inflation Reduction Act are modeled on a bill that Murphy and Pallone introduced in 2021. “We are proud of this immense investment to build community and ecosystem resilience to climate change while bolstering our economy. We urge you to dedicate the necessary resources that will ensure the swift implementation of these critical investments in our coastal communities,” Murphy and Pallone wrote. “Congress has provided NOAA with a historic opportunity to protect American coastal communities and our precious ecosystems from climate change threats. We urge you to prioritize nature-based coastal resilience efforts, like living shoreline infrastructure and research, as you create plans for this significant funding.” Living shoreline infrastructure projects use natural materials and systems, including dunes, wetlands, and oyster reefs to support the natural flood resilience of healthy shoreline ecosystems. Natural infrastructure is cost-effective, adaptable to changing environmental conditions, and can help improve water quality and wildlife habitat protection. NOAA received $3 billion through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and $2.8 billion through the Inflation Reduction Act to build living shoreline projects and conduct research on best practices. A copy of the letter is available HERE. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-op-ed-with-conservation-law-foundation-president-progressive-cannot-be-afraid-to-start-the-conversation-on-permitting-reform Murphy Op-Ed with Conservation Law Foundation President: Progressive Cannot Be Afraid to Start the Conversation on Permitting Reform 2022-11-21 2022 2022-11 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) authored an op-ed in the Boston Globe with Brad Campbell, president of the Conservation Law Foundation, to make the case for a progressive vision of permitting reform. Murphy and Campbell argue that the United States needs to reform its permitting process in order to meet the urgency of the climate crisis and realize the full potential of the Inflation Reduction Act and the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act. “The recently passed Inflation Reduction Act and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law have the potential to accelerate the urgent shift to clean energy demanded by the climate crisis. They can help shore up failing and unsafe infrastructure holding back our economy, and begin to remedy the injustices that communities of color and low income have suffered at the hands of government — from major highways cutting through the heart of communities to unsafe drinking water,” Murphy and Campbell wrote. “But it is impossible to realize this potential without addressing the nation’s failing regulatory infrastructure. Outdated and unwieldy review and permitting processes hinder our ability to meet the urgency of the climate crisis and bog down much-needed projects in delays and litigation that fail to safeguard the communities and the natural resources they’re designed to protect.” On the currently inefficient permitting process, Murphy and Campbell wrote: “It can take a decade to permit and build offshore wind, clean transportation, and major electric transmission. This is as unacceptable as it is unnecessary. While permitting is not the only source of delay, it is virtually impossible to build out essential infrastructure and clean energy under the current approach to federal, state, and local project review and approvals. Pretending otherwise sacrifices any claim the United States has to global climate leadership and any hope for the communities hit first and worst by pollution and climate risk from fossil fuels.” Murphy and Campbell concluded: “Rather than idealiz… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-readout-of-meeting-with-nominee-for-ambassador-to-russia Murphy Readout of Meeting with Nominee for Ambassador to Russia 2022-11-17 2022 2022-11 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, on Thursday released the following statement after meeting with Ambassador Lynne Tracy, nominee for Ambassador to Russia: “Maintaining clear communication channels with Russia is critical to our efforts to prevent further escalation in Ukraine and to advocate on behalf of U.S. citizens who are being wrongfully detained. I was glad to meet with Ambassador Tracy to discuss the essential role she will play at our embassy in Moscow and the importance of continued U.S. support for Ukraine in the face of ongoing Russian aggression. We also discussed the impact of Russia’s war on Ukraine in the South Caucasus, where Ambassador Tracy has spent the past three years serving in Armenia. She is eminently qualified for this post, and her swift confirmation is more important than ever,” said Murphy. Earlier this week, Murphy spoke at a U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing on U.S. policy in the Caucasus. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-blumenthal-statements-on-proposed-projects-for-northeast-corridor-rail-improvement Murphy, Blumenthal Statements on Proposed Projects for Northeast Corridor Rail Improvement 2022-11-16 2022 2022-11 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) on Wednesday released the following statements on the Federal Railroad Administration’s (FRA) submission of projects for the Northeast Corridor (NEC) Inventory. The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act passed last year provided more than $20 billion in funding for a sequence of projects aimed at modernizing NEC service. This initial group of projects will reduce the backlog of repairs for existing rail lines, improve performance, and expand or establish new intercity passenger rail service along the Northeast Corridor. “These projects represent a giant step forward in our ongoing efforts to reduce travel times and make the NEC rail system more efficient. Thanks to the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, we now have a strategy for how to best improve the NEC over the next 5 years that maximizes every single taxpayer dollar and ensures we have a plan in place to see these projects through to the end,” Murphy said. “The Northeast Corridor is the engine that moves our state’s economy. The Federal Railroad Administration has taken one step further towards unlocking access to $24 billion in infrastructure funding that could be used to bring faster, safer rail services to Connecticut residents,” Blumenthal said. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-discusses-us-policy-in-the-caucasus-and-balkans Murphy Discusses U.S. Policy in the Caucasus and Balkans 2022-11-16 2022 2022-11 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) spoke on Wednesday at a U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing on U.S. policy in the Caucasus with Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs Karen Donfried. Murphy asked about the Turkey-Armenia relationship and the role the United States should play: I wanted to ask a broad question about Turkey’s role in the region. Obviously, we know their historic role backing Azerbaijan. There doesn’t appear to be evidence that they explicitly supported Azerbaijan’s latest provocations. But they have also begun an interesting dialogue with Armenia that could ultimately be very important with Russia's preoccupation in Ukraine. Turkey obviously has a vacuum that they can fill. They’ve been more active than ever since 2020. Talk a little bit if you would, Secretary Donfried, about Turkey’s role in the region, and specifically on this question of Turkey-Armenia normalization.” Murphy highlighted the potential role Azerbaijan could play in reducing Europe’s reliance on Russian energy: “I have often thought that we have gotten the balance wrong when it comes to promoting human rights and democracy in countries that have large oil reservoirs. But this is a country that now has more pipeline capacity than it did ten or twenty years ago. What’s the future of Azerbaijani energy with respect to diversifying away from Russian energy in and around the region? And how does this factor into the decisions that we make about how to approach some of these thornier issues of Azerbaijani conduct in the region? Murphy urged the State Department to stay engaged in ongoing discussions between Serbia and Kosovo: “We’ve got some real potential bumps in the road coming up with the implementation of the license plate agreement in Kosovo. Again, I would just urge the Department to play as active a role as possible in the continued discussions between Serbia and Kosovo. We have for a long time, for good reason, have relied on the Europeans to take the lead, the Germans speci… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-merkley-cicilline-keating-colleagues-call-on-administration-to-center-human-rights-ahead-of-cop27-in-egypt Murphy, Merkley, Cicilline, Keating, Colleagues Call On Administration To Center Human Rights Ahead Of Cop27 In Egypt 2022-11-02 2022 2022-11 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Chairman of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on Near East, South Asia, Central Asia, and Counterterrorism, and Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), a member of the Senate Foreign Relations and Environment and Public Works Committees, and U.S. Rep. David Cicilline (D-R.I.-01), Chairman of the U.S. House of Representatives Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Middle East, North Africa, and Global Counterterrorism, and U.S. Rep. Bill Keating (D-M.A.-09), Chairman of the U.S House of Representatives Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Europe, Energy, the Environment and Cyber led 52 of their colleagues in a letter to President Biden urging the Administration to raise human rights concerns with the Egyptian government ahead of COP27. “We are therefore deeply troubled by the message it sends to the world that the Egyptian government is hosting COP27 while imprisoning tens of thousands of political prisoners – including many environmental activists. With the world’s attention on Sharm el-Sheikh this month, COP27 presents a unique opportunity for the United States to press the Egyptian government to release these activists and demonstrate its commitment to inclusive engagement with the full range of stakeholders on climate solutions,” the lawmakers wrote. The lawmakers highlighted Egypt’s egregious human rights violations, including widespread arbitrary detentions, restrictions on members of the media and non-governmental organizations, and the government’s crackdown on political opponents. They also called attention to the important role that civil society organizations play in the global fight against climate change, through promoting government accountability, connecting grassroots efforts across the globe, and translating climate policies to the broader population. In October, the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights criticized Egypt for cracking down on civil society and creating a “climate of fear for Egyptian civil society organizations to enga… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:24:37Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-blumenthal-courtney-himes-local-leaders-announce-17-million-in-grants-for-improvements-to-ports-in-new-london-and-bridgeport Murphy, Blumenthal, Courtney, Himes, Local Leaders Announce $17 Million in Grants for Improvements to Ports in New London and Bridgeport 2022-10-31 2022 2022-10 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper HARTFORD—U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn,), and U.S. Representatives Joe Courtney (D-Conn.-02) and Jim Himes (D-Conn.-04) on Monday announced $17 million in grants from the MARAD FY22 Port Infrastructure Development Program (PIDP) for the City of New London Port Infrastructure Development Project and the Bridgeport Port Authority Project. The grants will support the design and construction of a wind port in Bridgeport, and fund projects aimed at improving and expanding the ports in both Bridgeport and New London. “The ports in New London and Bridgeport are big job creating engines for our state, and this funding is a huge investment in the continuing development of our port cities. With these grants, our state will continue to grow as a center of commerce and help our country move toward a cleaner energy future,” said Murphy. “Wind energy is good for the environment and Connecticut’s economy. These Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funds will improve port facilities to accommodate wind energy. New London and Bridgeport will continue to lead on this critical economic sector. I am proud to have fought for this funding to support our coastal economic hubs,” said Blumenthal. “Today’s Port Infrastructure grant award is the result of consistent bipartisan work, and it’s a huge win for continued economic success and job growth in our region. We’re seeing a ton of exciting economic activity in eastern Connecticut, and none of it’s happening by accident—in fact, when it comes to today’s grant award, my colleagues and I on the House Armed Services Committee helped originate the Port Infrastructure Development Program back in 2020 specifically for use-cases like this in New London. Too many of America’s ports have been neglected for too long, and we’ve seen the drag that can create on our economy while other ports around the world are modernizing at a rapid clip. Modernizing our own ports has become an economic and national security imperative, and today’s announcement is a perfect example… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-highlights-guilfords-quantum-si-as-innovator-of-the-month Murphy Highlights Guilford’s Quantum-Si as “innovator of the Month” 2022-10-31 2022 2022-10 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper HARTFORD–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) announced that Quantum-Si, based in Guilford, was named October’s “Innovator of the Month.” Quantum-Si is a life sciences company that has developed a next-generation, single molecule protein sequencing technology powered by a first-of-its-kind semiconductor chip in order to advance drug discovery and diagnostics beyond what has been possible with DNA sequencing. “Quantum-Si’s exciting application of semiconductor chip technology to identify protein structures puts it at the cutting edge of scientific research, disease diagnosis, and therapeutic discovery. Innovative companies like this are part of the reason why jumpstarting our domestic semiconductor industry with the CHIPs and Science Act is so important. I look forward to Quantum-Si’s continued growth in Connecticut,” said Murphy. “DNA sequencing enabled great advances in the biomedical community’s understanding of the role of genes in human disease, but proteins actually carry out most functions in our bodies. New methods for precise measurement of proteins are key to the next era of research into diseases and how to treat them. Our next-generation protein sequencing technology will be an indispensable tool in accelerating life science research by allowing the parallel cataloging of many proteins using a small, accessible benchtop instrument for the deepest insights into the human body,” said Brian Reed, Head of Research at Quantum-Si. Headquartered in Connecticut, Quantum-Si is part of the startup accelerator 4 Catalyzer, dedicated to maximizing societal impact through transformative medical innovation. Founded by world-renowned scientist and entrepreneur Dr. Jonathan Rothberg, Quantum-Si recently became the first company demonstrating protein sequencing technology to be published by a major peer-reviewed journal with its paper debut in Science, the academic journal of the American Association for the Advancement of Science. Murphy believes entrepreneurship and innovation are the building blocks for a strong … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-requests-review-of-foreign-stake-in-acquisition-of-twitter-inc Murphy Requests Review of Foreign Stake in Acquisition of Twitter, Inc. 2022-10-31 2022 2022-10 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Chairman of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on Near East, South Asia, Central Asia and Counterterrorism, on Monday sent a letter to the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States (CFIUS), requesting an immediate investigation into the potential national security concerns arising from the recent takeover of Twitter, Inc. by Elon Musk and a number of foreign private investors, including members of the Saudi Arabian royal family and the kingdom of Qatar. “As you know, CFIUS has the responsibility to review transactions that could result in an American business being controlled by a foreign person. However, CFIUS must also review non-controlling investments in certain sensitive US businesses, including companies that develop critical technologies and businesses that possess sensitive personal data on US citizens. The purpose of these reviews is clear: to protect the national security interests of the United States and American citizens,” he wrote. Murphy called attention to Saudi Arabia’s repression of free speech and political dissent inside and outside of the Kingdom’s borders, including the brutal murder of Washington Post journalist Jamal Khashoggi. Murphy referenced allegations by federal prosecutors in 2019 that Saudi Arabia recruited Twitter employees to mine Twitter’s internal systems for personal information about known Saudi critics and thousands of other Twitter users, in violation of U.S. law. Twitter also suspended 88,000 accounts tied to a disinformation campaign backed by the Saudi government after an internal investigation. Murphy directed the committee to examine the degree to which Saudi influence over Twitter’s operations or access to user data could be used to silence critics and activists, or further state-sponsored disinformation campaigns. “In addition, federal and state government officials rely on Twitter to be a reliable medium to communicate vital information to the public. The possibility that a foreign power may… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-applauds-funding-from-bipartisan-safer-communities-act-to-expand-behavioral-health-clinics-nationwide Murphy Applauds Funding From Bipartisan Safer Communities Act To Expand Behavioral Health Clinics Nationwide 2022-10-20 2022 2022-10 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, on Tuesday released the following statement on the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) announcement of an additional $15 million funded by Murphy’s Bipartisan Safer Communities Act for states to develop and transform Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics (CCBHCs) to address the country’s mental health crisis. CCBHCs provide crisis services 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and serve anyone who requests care for mental health or substance use, regardless of their ability to pay. “Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics meet people where they are and help ensure everyone can access and afford the mental health care they need. This new funding from the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act is going to expand a model that has already proven itself successful and will support ongoing work to improve mental health care in Connecticut. I’m proud to see these dollars start making a difference in communities across the country,” said Murphy. A one-pager on the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act is available here. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:34:28Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-blumenthal-bipartisan-group-of-senators-urge-release-of-liheap-home-heating-aid Murphy, Blumenthal, Bipartisan Group of Senators Urge Release of LIHEAP Home Heating Aid 2022-10-20 2022 2022-10 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) sent a letter with a bipartisan coalition of 31 U.S. senators urging the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to release funds for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) as swiftly and at the highest level as possible. “Given the alarming increase in energy costs that is forecast for this winter, we worked to secure an additional $1 billion in emergency funding for LIHEAP in the recently enacted short-term CR. It is critical that this funding, as well as the significant base funding available under the CR, is distributed as quickly as possible so it reaches these households in time for the winter heating season,” said the lawmakers. LIHEAP is administered by states and accessed through local Community Action Agencies. Eligibility for LIHEAP is based on income, family size, and the availability of resources. Senior citizens and those receiving Social Security Disability or SSI benefits are encouraged to apply as early as possible, but applications will be open to everyone through spring of 2023 — or until the funding is exhausted. The senators wrote that the federal LIHEAP funding is a crucial lifeline that assists low-income households and seniors on fixed incomes in paying their energy bills and staying safe during the winter. Earlier this month, Murphy and Blumenthal helped secure $1 billion in LIHEAP funding in the Continuing Resolution to fund the government. This will translate to an estimated $21 million for Connecticut’s LIHEAP program. In addition to Murphy and Blumenthal, the letter was also signed by U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Susan Collins (R-Maine), Jack Reed (D-R.I.), Michael Bennet (D-Colo.), Patrick Leahy (D-Vt.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Robert Casey, Jr. (D-Pa.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Tina Smith (D-MN), Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.), Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), Angus King, Jr. (I-M… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:34:28Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-blumenthal-lead-colleagues-in-urging-doj-and-atf-to-clarify_enforce-ghost-guns-rule Murphy, Blumenthal Lead Colleagues in Urging DOJ & ATF to Clarify & Enforce Ghost Guns Rule 2022-10-20 2022 2022-10 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), led a group of fourteen senators in urging the Department of Justice (DOJ) and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) to issue enforcement guidance and clarify the recently finalized Ghost Gun Rule. “The Ghost Gun Rule was promulgated to stop the proliferation of ghost guns, mitigate the threat these firearms pose to our communities, and help law enforcement—at every level—do their jobs… It is now incumbent upon the Department and ATF to see that it is enforced—and enforced strongly,” said the lawmakers. The rule regulates unfinished frames and receivers that are the core components used to construct ghost guns, which have become the preferred instruments for criminals and violent extremists and pose a severe threat to the public and law enforcement. Ghost gun companies have attempted to avoid the rule’s restrictions by claiming that they can still legally sell “nearly-complete” frames and receivers as standalone products, without tools and other materials to complete a ghost gun, without running afoul of the new rule. “These companies have adopted the position that selling nearly-complete frames and receivers without the tools (commonly known as jigs) or instructions to complete them means that their products are not firearms under federal law,” the senators wrote to Attorney General Merrick Garland and ATF Director Steven Dettelbach. “Of the 100 companies previously known to sell unserialized and nearly-complete frames and receivers, dozens remain engaged in that business,” said the senators. The number of ghost guns recovered at potential crime scenes has grown exponentially, jumping from 1,758 in 2016 to 19,344 in 2021 alone. That these firearms are untraceable only makes it more difficult for law enforcement to develop leads and solve crimes. Between January 1, 2016, and March 4, 2021, ATF attempted to trace almost 23,946 recovered ghost guns, but could only complete 151 traces. In addition to these nea… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:34:28Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-on-cnni-the-saudis-cant-separate-the-economics-of-oil-from-the-politics-of-oil Murphy on CNNi: The Saudis Can't Separate the Economics of Oil from the Politics of Oil 2022-10-20 2022 2022-10 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Chairman of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on Near East, South Asia, Central Asia and Counterterrorism and a member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, on Wednesday joined CNN International’s Connect the World with Becky Anderson to discuss re-evaluating the U.S-Saudi relationship. On whether Saudi Arabia should still be considered an ally, Murphy said: “I’ve been arguing for the better part of the last decade that we should reorient our relationship with Saudi Arabia. For a long time, they were a very imperfect ally and I think we now have to ask ourselves whether they are an ally at all.” Murphy continued: “We have looked the other way when it comes to their human rights abuses, their war in Yemen because we assumed when the chips were down, when there was a global emergency, the Saudis would choose to support us — not to support the Russians or the Chinese. And so, I think when a partner like this turns their back on you, you have to make decisions about whether you want to still be in the same kind of business…I just think it's time for us to figure out whether there’s a better way to deploy our defense assets, rather than using them to support a country that doesn’t seem to have our interests at heart.” Murphy argued that the Saudis don’t make decisions on oil production independent of political motives: “The Saudis can’t separate the economics of oil from the politics of oil. They can’t do that because it is the economics of oil, it is the revenue from that oil that is allowing the Russians to perpetuate a campaign that is killing thousands of civilians inside of Ukraine. It is the revenue from that oil that has allowed for the Saudis to perpetuate a campaign inside Yemen that has killed thousands of civilians.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:34:28Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-statement-on-recalibrating-our-military-assistance-to-saudi-arabia Murphy Statement on Recalibrating Our Military Assistance to Saudi Arabia 2022-10-20 2022 2022-10 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Chairman of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on Near East, South Asia, Central Asia and Counterterrorism and a member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, on Thursday released the following statement on immediate steps the U.S. should take to recalibrate our military assistance to Saudi Arabia: “I support calls to freeze new military aid to Saudi Arabia. We should also take swift steps in the near term that will provide immediate help to Ukraine and our allies in eastern Europe. The U.S. should suspend the sale of Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAM) to Saudi Arabia and repurpose these missiles to Ukraine, which could use them with the newly provided National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile Systems (NASAMS) to protect its territory and population from Russia’s criminal bombardments. “For several years, the U.S. military has deployed Patriot missile defense batteries to Saudi Arabia to help defend oil infrastructure against missile and drone attacks. These advanced air and missile defense systems should be re-deployed to bolster the defenses of eastern flank NATO allies like Poland and Romania—or transferred to our Ukrainian partners. “Policy decisions have consequences, and these steps would right-size with relationship with Saudi Arabia and help Ukraine.” Ahead of President Biden’s trip to Saudi Arabia this summer, Murphy authored an op-ed for Foreign Policy to lay out why the United States needs to rethink its relationship with Saudi Arabia. Earlier this week, Murphy joined CNN’s State of the Union to discuss the OPEC+ announcement that it would cut oil production by two million barrels a day. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:34:28Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-statement-on-shooting-of-bristol-police-officers Murphy Statement on Shooting of Bristol Police Officers 2022-10-20 2022 2022-10 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) released the following statement after the devastating news that two Bristol Police Officers were shot and killed in the line of duty last night, and a third officer was shot and seriously injured: “I am devastated by the news that two Bristol police officers, Sergeant Dustin Demonte and Officer Alex Hamzy, were killed last night while heroically serving their community, and a third officer is severely injured. My thoughts are with their families, friends, and fellow officers as they grieve this senseless tragedy.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:34:28Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-shaheen-wicker-tillis-urge-biden-administration-to-establish-us-policy-toward-bosnia-and-herzegovina-as-eufor-mandate-renewal-deadline-approaches Murphy, Shaheen, Wicker, Tillis Urge Biden Administration To Establish U.S. Policy Toward Bosnia And Herzegovina As EUFOR Mandate Renewal Deadline Approaches 2022-10-12 2022 2022-10 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), and Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) sent a letter this week to Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin, on the importance of the European Union Force in Bosnia and Herzegovina (EUFOR) mandate and the development of a comprehensive strategy towards Bosnia and Herzegovina. “The fragility of the peace established under the Dayton Peace Accords is evident and alarming. Vladimir Putin’s war in Ukraine has emboldened actors in Bosnia and Herzegovina who have long been supported by the Kremlin and other external actors, and the risk of violence cannot be ignored. The United States must focus on maintaining peace in Bosnia and Herzegovina,” the senators wrote. The senators went on to underscore the importance of the EUFOR mandate, which has helped keep the peace in Bosnia and Herzegovina following the end of the war in 1995. The number of NATO troops in the region under the mandate has steadily decreased. Amid precarious political dynamics in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the lawmakers argue that a more concerted strategic response from European Union (EU) member states, the United Kingdom and the United States is necessary to sufficiently source the EUFOR Althea Mission. “Russia continues to claim the Western Balkans as within its sphere of influence, and Russian officials have issued numerous statements of support for regional actors opposed to both European integration and NATO. The United States must not turn a blind eye to these threats; we must demonstrate our commitment to European security by maintaining an effective presence in the Balkans as we continue to respond to Russia’s unprovoked war in Ukraine,” said the lawmakers. In closing, the senators urged the Biden administration to develop a strategy, in coordination with NATO and the EU, for how to maintain a peacekeeping force in Bosnia and Herzegovina in the event of a Russian veto of the… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-cornyn-blumenthal-hoeven-tillis-introduce-bipartisan-help-find-the-missing-act Murphy, Cornyn, Blumenthal, Hoeven, Tillis Introduce Bipartisan Help Find the Missing Act 2022-10-11 2022 2022-10 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), John Hoeven (R-N.D.), and Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) on Thursday introduced the bipartisan Help Find the Missing Act or “Billy’s Law.” This legislation would close loopholes in America’s missing persons systems by streamlining the missing persons reporting process and ensuring that law enforcement databases are more accessible and comprehensive. Billy's Law was originally introduced in 2009 by then-Congressman Chris Murphy. The bill was inspired by Janice Smolinski of Cheshire, Connecticut, after her 31-year-old son Billy went missing from Waterbury, Connecticut. While working with law enforcement to locate her missing son, Smolinski faced countless systemic challenges. Billy's Law was introduced to address those challenges and help ensure that the tens of thousands of American families whose loved ones go missing each year do not experience the same hurdles faced by the Smolinskis. “There are thousands of families like the Smolinskis who are forced to endure the crushing uncertainty of a missing loved one and then end up victimized all over again by a missing persons system that doesn't allow families to participate in the search for their family member. There’s no excuse for the inefficiencies of the current process, which won’t allow databases to communicate with each other. Billy’s Law is a simple, commonsense fix that I first introduced in the House in 2009, and I won’t stop pushing until we get it done,” said Murphy. “Nobody should ever have to wonder about the fate of their missing child or loved one, but tragically, this is a reality for far too many,” said Cornyn. “By improving the missing persons reporting process and improving coordination, this legislation ensures that local law enforcement can work swiftly and comprehensively to deliver justice to the families and friends of the missing.” “Our bipartisan measure will bolster resources for law enforcement officials as they help families with the search … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-discusses-competition-with-china-support-for-nato-at-warsaw-security-forum Murphy Discusses Competition with China, Support for NATO at Warsaw Security Forum 2022-10-11 2022 2022-10 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WARSAW–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee and co-chair of the Senate Poland Caucus, on Tuesday spoke on a panel at the Warsaw Security Forum about the importance of the transatlantic alliance and opportunities to work together in the face of Russian and Chinese aggression. Murphy was joined by Helena Carreiras, Portugal’s Minister of Defense, and Ben Wallace, the U.K.’s Secretary of State for Defense. On working with Europe to compete with China, Murphy said: “This is a moment in which I think we have to be realistic about the opportunities that frankly come with the great power competition, not just the downsides. I mean, listen, I think the future of relations with China run through our ability to build seamless cooperation between the United States and Europe. And so, I am gladdened by our increasing discussions around trade and technology. If we’re going to have an industrial policy in the United States, which I think we are on our way towards, it makes no sense to do that unilaterally. We should be building a common industrial policy with Europe. It doesn’t make sense for Europe to move out way ahead of us on technology regulation, [it’s] better for us to set the standard together. So, I think China delights when we are setting different standards, when we are creating parallel industrial policies. I think they know they’re in for a much rougher ride when we’re acting together. “And frankly, to this question we were discussing before about how you present an offer to countries that right now are allured by the free money with no strings attached from China: creating a seamless market between the United States and Europe, creating an easy plug-in to the transatlantic… as an alternative to economic reliance with China is the future as well,” Murphy added. Murphy highlighted the importance of investing in economic development and diplomacy as foreign policy tools: “In Africa, I think we’re viewing the consequence of the United States continuing to loo… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-highlights-bristols-movia-robotics-as-innovator-of-the-month Murphy Highlights Bristol's MOVIA Robotics as "Innovator of the Month" 2022-10-11 2022 2022-10 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper HARTFORD–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) announced that MOVIA Robotics, based in Bristol, was named September’s “Innovator of the Month.” Founded in 2010, MOVIA is a collaborative robotics company building systems and software to help people on the autism spectrum learn and grow using robotic technology. Their products – HomePal™ for family use, Teacher’s Aide™ for school use, and TheraPal™ for clinician use – incorporate several robot models and provide evidence-based Robot-Assisted Instruction (RAI) to meet the individualized needs and learning goals of those with ASD. “Too often people on the autism spectrum – especially children – aren’t given the support they need to succeed. The team at MOVIA is changing the game through their innovative, evidence-based robots that help kids learn, grow, and build their confidence. I look forward to seeing their continued growth in the state,” said Murphy. “We are developing our products to help close the gap between the needs of people with autism and the tools available to their parents, teachers, and clinicians. Using evidence-based practices from education and autism therapy, combined with the interactive and engaging capabilities of robotics and AI, we aim to make it easier for those with special needs and the community that supports them to achieve their goals. Our goal is to make affordable and accessible tools that help the community and make a difference by improving the quality of life for these challenged individuals,” said Timothy Gifford, Founder and President of MOVIA Robotics. "We are excited to be helping people and changing their lives. MOVIA currently has over 400 systems around the world at schools, clinics, youth organizations, care facilities, and homes. Our RAI system is an alternative way for individuals to learn – it meets them where they are and empowers those who serve them,” said Muniba Masood, MOVIA’s Chief Executive Officer. “When we see sheer joy on the face of a child or adult practicing a skill, and then having the confidence to use wh… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-on-state-of-the-union-its-time-to-admit-the-saudis-are-not-looking-out-for-us Murphy on State of the Union: It's Time to Admit the Saudis Are Not Looking Out for Us 2022-10-11 2022 2022-10 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Chairman of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on Near East, South Asia, Central Asia and Counterterrorism and a member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, on Sunday joined CNN’s State of the Union with Jake Tapper to discuss Russian aggression, the need to re-evaluate America’s relationship with Saudi Arabia, and protests in Iran. On the threat of nuclear conflict with Russia, Murphy said: “I think the President is right to raise the risk of nuclear conflict because Vladimir Putin is increasingly getting pushed into a corner…This is a dangerous man, and the United States has to be ready for Putin to use a tactical nuclear weapon. I agree, I don’t think there are any signs that he is going to do that imminently, and it’s important for us to send signs about what the consequences would be should he make that choice.” On Putin’s ultimate responsibility for the conflict, Murphy said: “This war can end if Vladimir Putin decides to get his troops and personnel out of Ukraine. He made the decision to invade a sovereign neighboring country and the blood today and tomorrow is on his hands…I think as long as we communicate the lines that we are not willing to cross then the danger for escalation lessens. But I don't want to get into a world in which we start blaming ourselves for escalation. This is Putin's war, and it's his decision as to whether it ends.” On his longstanding calls for the U.S. to make a wholesale re-evaluation of the U.S.–Saudi relationship, Murphy said: “We sell massive amounts of arms to the Saudis. I think we need to rethink those sales. I think we need to lift the exemption that we have given this OPEC+ cartel from US price fixing liability. I think we need to look at our troop presence in the Middle East and Saudi Arabia. Murphy continued: “I mean, listen, for years, we have looked the other way as Saudi Arabia has chopped up journalists, has engaged in massive political repression. For one reason – we wanted to know that w… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-statement-on-republican-filibuster-of-the-disclose-act Murphy Statement on Republican Filibuster of the DISCLOSE Act 2022-10-11 2022 2022-10 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–U.S Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) on Thursday released the following statement after Senate Republicans blocked consideration of the Democracy Is Strengthened by Casting Light On Spending in Elections Act (DISCLOSE), legislation to require organizations spending money in federal elections to disclose their donors: “This feels pretty basic – for democracy to work, Americans have to know who is behind the millions and millions of dollars being spent to block progress on lowering health care costs, tackling climate change, protecting reproductive rights, and making sure big corporations pay their fair share. Billionaires and special interests pour money into American politics, picking winners and losers while hiding their identities behind innocuously-named political action committees. This is terrible for our nation. The DISCLOSE Act would lift this veil of secrecy and let the American public see who is responsible for the uncontrolled spending that poisons our politics. It’s disappointing – albeit unsurprising – that Republicans blocked a commonsense way to bring greater transparency to elections,” said Murphy. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-to-travel-to-warsaw-security-forum Murphy to Travel to Warsaw Security Forum 2022-10-11 2022 2022-10 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee and co-chair of the U.S. Senate Poland Caucus, will travel to Poland for the Warsaw Security Forum. Murphy will participate in a panel with Helena Carreiras, Portugal’s Minister of Defense, and Ben Wallace, the United Kingdom’s Secretary of State for Defense, titled “Gazing at Each Other or Facing the Same Direction: Reviving the Transatlantic Alliance in Times of War in Europe.” Murphy will also meet with elected officials and participate in a conversation about democratic resilience with the mayor of Warsaw. “As a proud Polish-American and the Co-Chair of the U.S.-Poland Caucus, it’s been amazing to watch Poland step up and do its part to support Ukraine in its time of peril. As Russia grows increasingly desperate, the past seven months have demonstrated the strength and effectiveness of transatlantic cooperation. This conference of American and European leaders is a great chance to continue planning for Ukraine’s success and make sure we are on the same page on other mutual challenges,” said Murphy. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-votes-to-keep-government-open-fund-heating-assistance-program-and-aid-to-ukraine Murphy Votes to Keep Government Open, Fund Heating Assistance Program and Aid to Ukraine 2022-10-11 2022 2022-10 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee, on Thursday released the following statement after the U.S. Senate passed the Continuing Resolution to fund the government until December 16: “It’s our job to make sure the federal government stays open and is able to serve the American people. Today’s continuing resolution includes LIHEAP funding that will help thousands of people in Connecticut afford to keep their homes warm as temperatures begin to drop. It also provides billions in disaster recovery aid to communities across America and reaffirms our commitment to support the people of Ukraine as they defend their country. But these stopgap measures only get us so far, and we need to pass a real budget,” said Murphy. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:20:33Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/ahead-of-midterms-murphy-introduces-legislation-to-keep-voters-and-election-workers-safe-from-guns-at-the-polls Ahead of Midterms, Murphy Introduces Legislation to Keep Voters and Election Workers Safe from Guns at the Polls 2022-09-28 2022 2022-09 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–Ahead of the upcoming election and early voting period, U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) on Wednesday introduced the Vote Without Fear Act, legislation to prevent armed voter intimidation at the polls. The legislation would prohibit the possession of a firearm within 100 yards of any federal election site, with exceptions for on-duty law enforcement or security guards. Only six states – Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Texas – and the District of Columbia currently ban guns at the polls while instances of private citizens bringing guns to polling places as well as threats against election workers are both on the rise. “At the foundation of American democracy is the right to make your voice heard. Free and fair elections cannot happen occur in the face of armed intimidation at the polls, but that’s become a disturbing reality for some Americans, as extremists driven by conspiracy theories about voter fraud are increasingly showing up to polling places with guns. This legislation will ensure voters and election workers continue to feel safe participating in the democratic process,” said Murphy. U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Bob Casey (D-Pa.), Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-N.Y.), Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), and Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) co-sponsored the legislation. “Armed voter intimidation poses a serious threat not only to public safety, but to our democracy. These incidents of violent extremism are on the rise and are only anticipated to worsen as we enter the election season. Every American should be able to safely cast their vote in the absence of fear. I am proud to support this commonsense legislation and thank my colleague, Senator Murphy, for leading the charge,” said Blumenthal. “The ballot box is our democracy’s first line of defense and the last place an American should ever have to worry for their safety or feel intimidated,” said Markey. “I am proud to join my colleague Senator Murphy in introducing the Vote Witho… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:08:33Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-warren-castro-torres-demand-answers-from-commerce-department-about-troubling-increase-in-approvals-of-assault-weapon-exports Murphy, Warren, Castro, Torres Demand Answers from Commerce Department about Troubling Increase in Approvals of Assault Weapon Exports 2022-09-28 2022 2022-09 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and U.S. Representatives Joaquin Castro (D-Texas) and Norma Torres (D-Calif.) on Wednesday sent a letter to U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo to express concern with the U.S. Department of Commerce’s increased approvals of export licenses for assault weapons and high-capacity magazine exports and called on the Department to revise its approach to assault weapons exports and answer questions about its export license approvals. “We are writing with grave concern about Commerce Department actions that have weakened oversight of assault weapon and high-capacity magazine exports, padding the gun industry’s profits while putting deadly weapons in the hands of corrupt actors around the world. As Democrats in Congress work to crack down on the deadly use of these weapons on our streets, your agency approved nearly $16 billion in firearms export licenses in the first 16 months after it took over authority over small arms exports from the State Department… we urge you to modify your approach to align with President Biden’s gun safety agenda,” said the lawmakers. Weapons manufacturers need an export license to sell assault weapons and high-capacity magazines in other countries, and in 2020, the Trump administration transferred licensing authority from the State Department, which has deep expertise in foreign instability, human rights abuses, and terrorism, to the Commerce Department – making the approval process more “business friendly” said the National Rifle Association. During the 2020 Presidential campaign, President Biden promised to transfer licensing authority back to the State Department – but it has not yet happened. In the first 16 months since the Commerce Department took over firearm export licensing, it approved nearly $16 billion in licenses – a 30% increase from the State Department’s rate of approval – while denying only 0.4% of applications. The shift in licensing authority has weakened congressional oversight over arms… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:08:33Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-after-four-years-of-failed-maximum-pressure-in-iran-we-know-were-better-off-with-a-nuclear-agreement Murphy: After Four Years of Failed Maximum Pressure in Iran, We Know We're Better Off with a Nuclear Agreement 2022-09-22 2022 2022-09 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–U.S Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Chairman of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on Near East, South Asia, Central Asia and Counterterrorism and a member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee, on Wednesday spoke on the U.S. Senate floor to highlight the failures of Trump’s maximum pressure campaign in Iran and explain why reaching a new nuclear agreement is critical to the security of the United States and our allies. On the failed policy of four years of maximum pressure in Iran, Murphy said: “Not only did Iran not come to the table on everything, they came to the table on nothing. Their behavior in the region got much worse and much more adversarial to U.S. Interests. Just look at the reality on the ground, in a place like Lebanon, or Yemen or Iraq or Syria. At the end of Trump's term, did Iran have more or less influence in those places? Unquestionably more. More integrated with the Houthis. By the end of Trump's term they were in charge of the Lebanese government. There was less separation between the Iraqi power structure and Tehran. At the end of that four year period of time testing maximum pressure, Iran was more deeply involved with its proxies than ever before. They were not negotiating with the United States on any of the conditions that the Trump administration laid down for us. And they were shooting at us. Murphy added: “And so I'm not sure why we have to do a lot of guessing now as to whether we're better off with or without a nuclear agreement with Iran. Because here's what we got from maximum pressure: American troops under fire, more support for proxies, no hopes of negotiation, and the icing on the cake, an Iranian nuclear program that is now weeks away from having enough fissile material to produce a nuclear weapon. Compare that with a year away during the time of the agreement.” “We just see what [the Iranian government is] doing right now on the streets of Tehran, brutally repressing another wave of protests. We listen to what the [Iranian] President said on… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:08:33Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-tillis-introduce-the-consensual-donation-and-research-integrity-act Murphy, Tillis Introduce the Consensual Donation and Research Integrity Act 2022-09-22 2022 2022-09 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Thom Tillis (R-N.C.) on Thursday introduced the Consensual Donation and Research Integrity Act, legislation to protect the dignity of those who donate their bodies to education or research. Specifically, it would create standards for registration, inspection, chain of custody, labeling and packing, and proper disposition to ensure donated bodies are not unknowingly contributed to a for-profit industry in which body brokers take advantage of donors and their families. While the process for donating a body for the purpose of transplantation is highly regulated and transparent, there is no federal law governing the donating of a body or body parts for research or educational uses. “The exploitation of bodies that have been donated for education or research is deeply disturbing and heartbreaking for the families who expect their loved one’s remains to be treated with dignity. For too long, an unregulated industry has allowed body brokers to profit off donor bodies and their grieving families, disproportionally impacting the poor and elderly. This legislation would increase accountability and transparency and stop bad actors from committing these gross abuses,” said Murphy. "Most Americans would be shocked to learn that there is a for-profit body broker industry that creates significant ethical dilemmas and public health threats because of a lack of regulation," said Tillis. "Our bipartisan legislation will introduce much-needed accountability and regulatory oversight to protect public health and ensure that donors and their families are treated with respect and dignity." “It’s hard to imagine in this day and age, that whole body donation isn’t regulated,” said National Funeral Directors Association President Randall P. “Randy” Anderson, CFSP, CCO. “What’s even harder to hear are the stories from families that have experienced heartbreak and grief when they discovered the bodies of their loved ones has been desecrated and sold – sometimes repeatedly – by body brok… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:08:33Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-applauds-senate-ratification-of-the-kigali-amendment-phasing-out-use-of-hydrofluorocarbons Murphy Applauds Senate Ratification of the Kigali Amendment, Phasing Out Use of Hydrofluorocarbons 2022-09-21 2022 2022-09 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) on Wednesday released the following statement after the U.S. Senate voted to ratify the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol, which affirms U.S. commitment to phasing out the use of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) by 85% over the next 15 years. HFCs are highly potent greenhouse gases that trap heat in the atmosphere 1,000 times more effectively than carbon dioxide: “Phasing out harmful HFCs is not only good for the planet – it’s good for American business and will ensure we maintain a competitive edge on the global market. Super pollutants are some the most aggressive contributors to climate change, and we need to do more to address these dangerous chemicals head on. It’s taken too long for the United States to join the 137 other countries who have already ratified the Kigali Amendment, but with today’s action coupled with the Inflation Reduction Act, America is once again leading the fight against climate change,” said Murphy. In 2016, Murphy urged Secretary of State John Kerry and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Gina McCarthy to take a strong position to rapidly phase down the use of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) at the 28th Meeting of the Parties to the Montreal Protocol in Kigali, Rwanda, and he hailed the adoption of the amendment. Murphy sponsored the Super Pollutants Act of 2019 along with U.S. Senator Susan Collins (R-Maine), which aims to reduce emissions of short-lived climate pollutants like HFCs. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-08T03:08:33Z

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