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

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505 rows where chamber = "Senate", state = "CT" and year = 2024 sorted by date descending

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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-2024-end-of-year-report Murphy Releases 2024 End of Year Report 2024-12-31 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper HARTFORD–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) on Tuesday released his End of Year Report outlining the work he’s done for the people of Connecticut during 2024. The report details Murphy’s legislative priorities this year, including continuing to implement the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, building more social connection, fighting for workers, making housing more affordable, and more. Murphy also helped deliver billions of federal dollars from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, CHIPS and Science Act, and the Inflation Reduction Act to create good-paying jobs in Connecticut. This year, Murphy and his office: Introduced or co-sponsored 367 pieces of legislation, including 68 bills or resolutions as the lead sponsor. Completed his eighth Walk Across Connecticut: four days, 64 miles, 16 towns, and hundreds of people along the way. Traveled across the state, hosting 117 roundtables, listening sessions and more with Connecticut residents. Responded and reached out to Connecticut residents through over 383,000 calls, emails, and letters. Returned nearly $2 million to constituents, including owed Social Security payments, veterans’ benefits, tax refunds, and other savings from federal agencies. Helped over 3,300 constituents work through federal issues and get their owed benefits. Click here to download Senator Murphy’s 2024 End of Year Report. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-statement-on-the-passing-of-former-president-jimmy-carter Blumenthal Statement on the Passing of Former President Jimmy Carter 2024-12-29 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [WASHINGTON, DC] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) today released the below statement following the passing of Former President Jimmy Carter: “Jimmy Carter was a public servant for all seasons—leading by example, passionately and unstintingly, over deeply different and sometimes difficult phases of his life and the nation’s. “The diversity and longevity of his public service is staggering—as a military officer, Governor and President, home builder, health care activist, and much more. He certainly showed that leadership in elected office is only one of many ways to give back to our great nation. He believed fervently in the opportunity and obligation of every single person to make a difference and better the lives of others. I’ll always be grateful for his appointing me as U.S. Attorney for Connecticut, which is how I first came to know him. “While some disagreed with his political views or positions, none could doubt his sincerity and decency, his faith and humanity. He built a legacy of giving back—personifying the adage that there’s no limit to the good you can do if you don’t care who gets the credit.” Blumenthal was appointed to be the U.S. Attorney for Connecticut by President Carter and served in that role for four years during the Carter Administration. -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/-murphy-statement-on-death-of-president-jimmy-carter Murphy Statement on Death of President Jimmy Carter 2024-12-29 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper HARTFORD–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) released the following statement on the death of President Jimmy Carter: “Few people have modeled what it means to live a life dedicated to the service of others more than President Jimmy Carter. He led with compassion, humility, and moral clarity even when it came at a political cost. Helping others was his calling, and President Carter didn’t need the White House to change millions of lives. From his work at the Carter Center to volunteering with Habitat for Humanity, he worked every day to build a more just world. “In a 1979 speech, President Carter warned the nation we have two paths to choose from – one toward fragmentation and self-interest and another toward common purpose. It’s a warning that rings true still today. “My heart is with the Carter family as the nation mourns the loss of a giant.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/icymi-permanent-subcommittee-on-investigations-releases-report-and-supporting-documents-in-coast-guard-sexual-misconduct-cover-up ICYMI: Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations Releases Report & Supporting Documents in Coast Guard Sexual Misconduct Cover-Up 2024-12-27 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [WASHINGTON, DC] – U.S. Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations (PSI) Chair Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Ranking Member Ron Johnson (R-WI) released a bipartisan interim staff report on their inquiry into the Coast Guard’s efforts to conceal the investigation into mishandled cases of sexual assault and harassment at the Coast Guard Academy. The report, Coast Guard Efforts to Conceal the Operation Fouled Anchor Investigation from Congress and the Public, includes several newly released documents, among which is an email explaining that then-Commandant Admiral Schultz chose not to affirmatively disclose Operation Fouled Anchor to either Congress or the public based on the continuing nature of the investigation. This email was sent the same day that a briefing by the Coast Guard to Congress on Operation Fouled Anchor was scheduled to take place – effectively engaging in a cover-up. Additional evidence further suggests that the Coast Guard took affirmative steps to remove references to Operation Fouled Anchor from internal Coast Guard communications which Congress had requested as part of an inquiry into harassment, bullying, and retaliation at the Coast Guard Academy. “This report provides additional evidence that the highest levels of Coast Guard leadership engaged in a purposeful and long-term cover-up of widespread sexual assault and harassment allegations at the Coast Guard Academy,” Blumenthal and Johnson said. “The survivors of this misconduct deserve an explanation, and so does the public.” Background on the Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations Inquiry into the Coast Guard In September 2023, PSI opened a bipartisan inquiry into the Coast Guard’s internal review of sexual assault and harassment cases that occurred between 1990 and 2006, which was called Operation Fouled Anchor. The Subcommittee’s inquiry has focused on the Coast Guard’s original mishandling of these cases and the Coast Guard’s failure to reveal the conclusion of Operation Fouled Anchor, and its associated report, to Congress a… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-statement-on-spending-bill-to-avert-government-shutdown Blumenthal Statement on Spending Bill to Avert Government Shutdown 2024-12-21 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [WASHINGTON, DC] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) issued the following statement after the Senate passed an end-of-year spending deal that would extend government funding until March 2025: “This stopgap spending bill averts a government shutdown’s devastating human consequences reaching every corner of Connecticut and the country. Connecticut’s economy benefits from smart, targeted investments in our future—not from repeated budgetary brinksmanship. This agreement will provide essential disaster aid for local farmers impacted by extreme flooding, safeguard Connecticut’s submarine industry, and fund essential nutrition and public health programs on which so many Connecticut families depend. I pledge to continue the fight to fund vital programs that serve the American people, lower prescription drug costs, and promote economic growth and opportunity.” The Continuing Resolution (CR) includes a number of provisions that would benefit Connecticut, including a topline of $2.94 billion in post-disaster investments. Specifically, the CR includes: Disaster Aid for Connecticut Farmers: The CR includes $20.78 billion in disaster aid for farmers for necessary expenses related to losses of revenue and quality or production of crops. Extreme weather events, including severe floods and unprecedented droughts have devastated Connecticut farms in recent years. In the wake of these events, Blumenthal has authored legislation to improve access to disaster assistance programs and crop insurance for small-sized farms. The CR includes an estimated $22 million in disaster payments and an estimated $1 million in economic assistance payments for Connecticut. Support for the Virginia Class Submarine Program: The CR provides $5.69 billion in emergency funds for the Virginia Class Submarine Program, including wage increases for non-executive workers. Blumenthal has fought for increased funding to safeguard Connecticut’s submarine industry and continue steady production of the Virginia Class program. Relief for Recovering Small … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-statement-on-short-term-deal-to-keep-the-government-open-2024 Murphy Statement on Short-Term Deal to Keep the Government Open 2024-12-21 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) released the following statement after voting for a short-term deal to keep the government open and deliver disaster aid to impacted communities in Connecticut and across the country. “The government almost shut down because the only thing co-presidents Elon Musk and Donald Trump care about is making themselves and their billionaire friends richer – it’s that simple. The past 48 hours were a hostage-taking exercise that put millions of families in the lurch just days before Christmas, all in the name of raising the debt ceiling so Trump can finance a giant tax break for billionaires in January. And now that Trump and Musk didn’t get their way, they’ve hatched an even more shameful plan to cut Medicare, Medicaid, and veterans benefits by $2.5 trillion instead. This ‘Billionaire First’ agenda is what we have to look forward to next year.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-and-connolly-introduce-bicameral-legislation-to-protect_expand-national-scenic-trails Blumenthal & Connolly Introduce Bicameral Legislation to Protect & Expand National Scenic Trails 2024-12-20 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Today, U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and U.S. Representative Gerry Connolly (D-VA) introduced legislation to preserve and expand America’s national trail system. The Complete America’s Great Trails Act gives a tax credit to landowners who voluntarily make land contributions towards the completion of National Scenic Trails, expanding the trail system and protecting the land from development. Connecticut is home to two of the 11 National Scenic Trails—the Appalachian Trail, which extends 52 miles across the state from Salisbury in the north to Sherman in the south, and the New England Trail, which extends 117 miles across the state from Suffield in the north to Guilford in the south. “The system of National Scenic Trails provides access to truly extraordinary landscapes—accessing the beauty of nature and recreational opportunities,” said Blumenthal. “The Complete America’s Great Trails Act incentivizes landowners to help close gaps in our national trail system, ensuring we protect habitat from encroachment of development while expanding the trails themselves. We owe it to ourselves and to future generations to preserve these treasured spaces.” “The Complete America’s Great Trails Act will enhance, expand, and protect trails in America’s most treasured places, from Mt. Vernon to Mount St. Helens, by providing landowners with incentives to protect public access and natural landscapes along America’s National Scenic Trails,” said Connolly. “I am proud to lead this effort with Senator Blumenthal and look forward to our continued work together to protect these American treasures for generations to come.” The Complete America’s Great Trails Act provides landowners who make a voluntary land contribution towards the completion of the National Scenic Trails with a tax credit equal to the fair market value of the portion of the land, furthering the goal of strengthening the connectivity and improving the maintenance of the trail system. The legislation is cosponsored in the Senate by U.S. S… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-statement-on-480-million-for-sikorsky-helicopters Blumenthal Statement on $480 Million for Sikorsky Helicopters 2024-12-20 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [Hartford, CT] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement applauding four awards totaling $480,294,997 for Sikorsky to support the manufacturing of CH-53K and VH-92A helicopters. “These blockbuster contracts, providing newest model helicopters, are crucial to key defense capabilities. They are also a boost for Connecticut’s economy and good-paying jobs in our state. They are a testament to the highly skilled Sikorsky workers and supply chain companies who build the world’s finest helicopters. There is an ever increasing urgency to the need for such aircraft. I will continue fighting to deliver contracts to Connecticut’s expert defense manufacturers,” said Blumenthal. -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-statement-on-boars-head-response-regarding-deadly-listeria-outbreak Blumenthal Statement on Boar's Head Response Regarding Deadly Listeria Outbreak 2024-12-19 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [Hartford, CT] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Congressional colleagues received a response to the September 30 letter sent to Boar’s Head Provisions Company, Inc. (Boar’s Head) in which they demanded answers about the conditions at the Jarratt, Virginia plant at the center of a nationwide Listeria outbreak. Boar’s Head’s response failed to substantively answer key questions posed by Blumenthal. “This Boar’s Head response is an insulting effort to blow off accountability. The public deserves answers, not these evasive dodges. The deadly Listeria outbreak killed 10 people and injured many more, but Boar’s Head refuses to provide any real response about their unsafe and negligent Virginia plant. Their ham-handed approach to a very serious health issue fails to take accountability for the outbreak, provide any clarity on actual plans to prevent a future outbreak, or ease the minds of consumers. With the time for action long overdue, Boar’s Head must at least own up to their actions and failures and provide a real response. I’ll continue to fight for answers and demand real responsibility from all involved in this deadly disaster,” said Blumenthal. Boar’s Head failed to answer several questions raised in the September 30 letter, including: No confirmation if they plan to reopen the Virginia plant at the center of the Listeria outbreak No clear commitment to improving plant’s infrastructure or explanation of how Boar’s Head plans to prevent non-compliances in the future No response explaining their past food safety policies No response on why staff did not act sooner to address food safety concerns or how management will be held accountable No response on the frequency Boar’s Head conducted microbial testing No response on testing data as requested No word if Boar’s Head tested non-contact food surfaces No response on whether third party inspections were conducted before the recall No response on how HQ handled food safety concerns prior to establishing the new Boar’s Head Food Safety Advisory … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/icymi-video-senate-passes-blumenthals-legislation-to-advance-management-and-conservation-of-plum-island ICYMI Video: Senate Passes Blumenthal's Legislation to Advance Management & Conservation of Plum Island 2024-12-19 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – In case you missed it, the Senate unanimously passed legislation authored by U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and cosponsored by U.S. Senators Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Chris Murphy (D-CT), and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) to create a long-term solution for management of Plum Island. The Plum Island Preservation Study Act requires the U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) to conduct a study to evaluate the national significance of Plum Island and the suitability of designating Plum Island as a unit of DOI. Blumenthal spoke on the Senate floor yesterday in support of the Plum Island Preservation Study Act passing through unanimous consent. “Thank you for giving us this opportunity, and, again, I thank my colleagues for approving all of these unanimous consents on behalf of land and resources that have such great value, like Plum Island, a national treasure,” said Blumenthal. “The passage of the Plum Island Preservation Study Act, while not achieving immediate and permanent protection of Plum Island and its nationally significant natural, historic, cultural, and scenic resources, is, nevertheless, a critical step toward achieving this highly worthwhile goal,” said Preserve Plum Island Coalition spokesperson John Turner. “We applaud all of our Senate and House sponsors for sticking with it and pushing the measure over the finish line. We urge Congress next to expeditiously appropriate funding so the Department of the Interior can undertake the studied assessment which we are confident will find Plum Island worthy of permanent preservation.” “Bravo and thank you Senator Blumenthal! You heard us and have worked tirelessly for many years to promote the preservation of Plum Island,” said Louise Harrison, Save the Sound’s Long Island Project Manager. “The Plum Island Preservation Study Act sets out a route for the studies and stakeholder collaborations necessary to bring the people’s vision for Plum Island into focus. There is no place like Plum Island; we are thrilled this legislation has passed a… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-trump-and-his-billionaire-buddies-want-to-be-in-charge-to-make-themselves-richer-at-our-expense Murphy: Trump and His Billionaire Buddies Want to be in Charge to Make Themselves Richer at Our Expense 2024-12-19 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) on Thursday spoke on the U.S. Senate floor to call out President-elect Trump’s ongoing plan to crush political dissent and lay the groundwork to transition American democracy into an oligarchy – all before he is even sworn in. This week alone, House Republicans recommended former Congresswoman Liz Cheney (R-Wyo.) be criminally investigated for her work on the Select Committee on the January 6 Attack, Trump sued Iowa pollster Ann Selzer and the Des Moines Register for publishing a poll he didn’t like, and ABC News settled Trump’s bogus defamation lawsuit for $15 million. In his speech, Murphy laid out how these attacks on free speech and the free press, coupled with Trump and his billionaire friends demanding a Christmas government shutdown in exchange for their demands, threaten American democracy as we know it. Murphy laid out the stakes: “America has been for almost all of our history a functioning, robust democracy where the party or individual in power changes regularly because people hold all the tools necessary to choose their leaders. But that could change in a heartbeat, so quickly, but without any one galvanizing moment that the transition might just be missed by all of us. You could just wake up one day and find out that the rules of democracy have been so rigged that Republicans or the Trump family never, ever lose again, and billionaires get to steal from all of us without any accountability.” “But I think it's also equally important to talk about why Donald Trump and Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy and all of his billionaire friends are engaged in this very coordinated early attack, even before he's sworn in, to try to intimidate his political opposition and bully the press. And the reason they are doing this, the reason that they are trying to suppress dissent is because they are preparing to steal from us. Donald Trump and his billionaire buddies want to be in charge of government so that they can make themselves more wealthy at our expense. They want … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-and-blackburn-joint-statement-on-house-leaderships-refusal-to-allow-a-vote-on-the-kids-online-safety-act Blumenthal & Blackburn Joint Statement on House Leadership's Refusal to Allow a Vote on The Kids Online Safety Act 2024-12-18 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [HARTFORD, CT] – U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) released the following statement on the status of passing the Kids Online Safety Act in the 118th Congress: “While the House has refused to take up the bipartisan Kids Online Safety Act, countless children and teens have died from suicide, mental health disorders, predation, bullying, and drug use fostered and fueled by Big Tech. One of these victims, Jesse Harrington, was a 15-year-old boy who wanted to be a firefighter and died by suicide in October after becoming addicted to Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok, while the House sat on its hands at the behest of Mark Zuckerberg. The House’s active obstruction of the Kids Online Safety Act will tragically result in the deaths of even more children like Jesse. To be clear: the blockade against safeguards and accountability was about padding Big Tech’s financial bottom line, not principle. For nearly four years, we have worked with more than 240 organizations and colleagues across the political spectrum to craft bipartisan legislation to protect children online from Big Tech abuses – legislation that passed the Senate on a 91-3 vote. Yet falsehoods crafted in Silicon Valley boardrooms and parroted by Washington politicians, along with millions of dollars spent along the way, held up KOSA in the House to advance Meta and Google's goal of profiting off our children. We are thankful to Senate leadership, most especially Senators Chuck Schumer, Mitch McConnell, John Thune, Ted Cruz, and Maria Cantwell and the powerful bipartisan coalition that supported KOSA and continues to believe it is necessary. We are grateful for the many free speech advocates who saw through Big Tech's lies and smokescreen, including Elon Musk, Linda Yaccarino, and Donald Trump, Jr. It was House Republican leadership who chose not to move this bill forward despite overwhelming support. We will continue the strongly bipartisan fight on the Kids Online Safety Act for the young people and parents across the countr… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-and-swalwell-introduce-bicameral-legislation-to-reduce-student-loan-debt-for-public-servants Blumenthal & Swalwell Introduce Bicameral Legislation to Reduce Student Loan Debt for Public Servants 2024-12-18 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Today, U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and U.S. Representative Eric Swalwell (D-CA) introduced the Strengthening Loan Forgiveness for Public Servants Act, legislation to expand the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program (PSLF) to provide meaningful student debt relief to teachers, police officers, public health workers, and others who dedicate their careers to public service. “Our nation’s dedicated public servants make incredible sacrifices for the betterment of our country, and they deserve relief from the immense weight of student debt,” said Blumenthal. “The Strengthening Loan Forgiveness for Public Servants Act provides a helping hand to the loyal police officers, teachers, and healthcare workers serving our communities and expands opportunities to ease financial burdens—repaying a debt of gratitude to our public servants.” “We should support students seeking a career in public service. That’s why I introduced the Strengthening Loan Forgiveness for Public Servants Act,” said Swalwell. “Too often students are prevented from pursuing a career in public service because of crippling college loan debt. This bill seeks to offer student loan forgiveness to teachers, police officers, public health workers and others who dedicate their careers to public service. Incentivizing students to seek public service careers while staying debt free will not only benefit our communities, but also allow students to freely make decisions for their future.” The Strengthening Loan Forgiveness for Public Servants Act expands PSLF and eliminates uncertainty for borrowers. The legislation allows borrowers to receive forgiveness for their loans in qualifying intervals, further incentivizing individuals to pursue careers in public service. The legislation is cosponsored in the Senate by U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Ben Cardin (D-MD), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), and Tina Smith (D-MN). The full text of the bill can be found here. -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-applauds-final-passage-of-the-national-defense-authorization-bill Blumenthal Applauds Final Passage of the National Defense Authorization Bill 2024-12-18 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Today, U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement applauding the Senate passage of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for Fiscal Year 2025. The NDAA includes a number of provisions championed by Blumenthal that make significant investments in Connecticut’s defense manufacturing workforce, support service members across the Department of Defense, and enhance national security. The bill passed the Senate by a vote of 85-14 after passing the House of Representatives last week. The full text of the NDAA is available here. A summary of the NDAA is available here. “This landmark bipartisan defense measure bolsters our national security and boosts Connecticut’s economy. We’re redoubling our nation’s commitments to servicemen and women with significant pay raises and programs and keeping faith with our allies and our own defense needs through important investments in subs, ships, artillery, and aircraft to ensure the security of the American people. This bill makes critical investments in advanced technologies and weapon platforms and the talented workforce that build them in Connecticut, showing our state’s central role in our nation’s defense efforts. We also make significant investments in the health and quality of life of servicemembers—resources rightfully earned. As a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, I was proud to fight for these provisions. I look forward to continuing my advocacy,” said Blumenthal. -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-murphy-delauro-and-elicker-announce-20-million-for-climate-energy_other-environmental-initiatives-in-new-haven Blumenthal, Murphy, DeLauro, & Elicker Announce $20 Million for Climate, Energy & Other Environmental Initiatives in New Haven 2024-12-18 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [NEW HAVEN, CT] – Today, U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Chris Murphy (D-CT), U.S. Representative Rosa DeLauro (CT-03), and Mayor Justin Elicker announced $20 million in federal funding for the City of New Haven and twenty partner organizations to advance a series of environmental initiatives designed to mitigate climate change, build resiliency, and reduce pollution in New Haven. The funds are awarded through the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Community Change Grants Program established to reduce pollution, increase community climate resilience, and build community capacity. The Community Change Grants Program is made possible by the Inflation Reduction Act. “This significant $20 million investment is a testament to New Haven’s consistent commitment to community climate resilience. New greenways, improved sidewalks, energy upgrades, and more will transform neighborhoods and reduce air pollution in the surrounding community. I’m proud that Inflation Reduction Act funding continues to advance environmental justice across Connecticut,” said Blumenthal. “This $20 million in federal funding is a huge win for neighborhoods in New Haven. With this money, the city can invest in new greenways and bike share programs that will make our communities safer to enjoy and energy-efficient upgrades that will reduce household costs for families. These investments will not only improve quality of life today but will help us build a stronger and more sustainable future for New Haven,” said Murphy. "Today, we celebrate the $20 million Environmental and Climate Justice Community Change Grant awarded to the Elm City Climate Collaborative, made possible by the Inflation Reduction Act," said DeLauro. "This funding will empower the City of New Haven and the Greater Dwight Development Corporation (GDDC) to tackle pollution, bolster climate resilience, and address environmental justice challenges. I was happy to support this joint request to the federal government having been engaged in the work that the City and GDD… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-to-serve-as-ranking-member-of-the-senate-committee-on-veterans-affairs Blumenthal to Serve as Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Veterans' Affairs 2024-12-18 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) announced today that he will become the Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs during the upcoming Congress: “As the Ranking Member of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs I’ll have the honor and leadership opportunity to protect and expand the care and benefits that veterans need and deserve. They’ve earned – and should receive – better healthcare, expanded access to education, increased job training opportunities, and more. I thank Chairman Tester for his great work, and I will seek to continue it, especially on implementing the PACT Act. I look forward to working closely with Senator Moran, who has been a terrific legislative partner in the past, and who has shown a deep commitment to serving our nation’s veterans.” -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/new-senate-permanent-subcommittee-on-investigations-majority-staff-report-exposes-failure-to-stop-us-technology-from-fueling-russias-war-machine-and-chinas-ai-arms-race New Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations Majority Staff Report Exposes Failure to Stop U.S. Technology from Fueling Russia's War Machine and China's AI Arms Race 2024-12-18 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [WASHINGTON, DC] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Chair of the U.S. Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations (PSI), released a Majority staff report revealing how the Department of Commerce’s Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) has failed to enforce semiconductor export controls, leading to the continued appearance of American-manufactured technology in Russian weapons used in the war in Ukraine and in China’s Artificial Intelligence systems. PSI’s investigation has uncovered how chronic underfunding has undercut the BIS’s ability to fulfill a key national security function—forcing the agency to rely on laughably outdated technology to trace increasingly sophisticated distribution networks. Today’s report stresses the need for additional resources and enforcement action to strengthen our national security and protect against diversion of U.S.-made technology by Russia and China. “Our present sanction system is a sieve—enabling an illicit flow of technology to Russia that fuels its murderous war on Ukraine," said Blumenthal. "An aggressive crackdown is urgent to make export controls effective against both Russia and China. Lack of resources and effort make current controls a mockery. My PSI investigation calls for an overhaul of sanctions enforcement to protect our national security and technological dominance. I’m calling on the Department of Commerce to take immediate action and crack down on the companies allowing U.S.-made semiconductors to power Russian weapons and Chinese ambition.” In September 2023, PSI initiated an inquiry to better understand the prevalence of American-manufactured microchips in Russian weapons systems despite export controls implemented to block Russia from accessing U.S. technology. Earlier this year, PSI Majority staff released a report revealing the U.S.-based semiconductor manufacturers’ laissez-faire attitude toward export control compliance. Today, PSI is releasing its final Majority staff report in the Subcommittee’s inquiry into the U.S. technology fueling Ru… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-blumenthal-lawmakers-probe-real-estate-firm-easyknock-after-abrupt-closure-demand-answers-for-customers Murphy, Blumenthal, Lawmakers Probe Real Estate Firm EasyKnock After Abrupt Closure, Demand Answers for Customers 2024-12-18 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) joined Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) in sending a letter to the Founder and CEO of EasyKnock—a real estate company that bought people’s homes and turned them into renters—probing the company’s allegedly deceptive and predatory business practices and their impacts on customers, after the company abruptly closed its doors on December 5, 2024. The letter was also signed by Tina Smith (D-Minn.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) and Peter Welch (D-Vt.). Before its recent closure, EasyKnock purchased homes from financially distressed homeowners through its “Sell & Stay” program, promising they would “[r]eceive 100% of [their] home’s value without having to move.” However, consumer lawsuits and multiple state attorneys general have alleged that EasyKnock’s deceptive advertising and business practices often left former homeowners far worse off than they were before the company found them, causing homeowners to lose cherished family homes and much of the equity they originally had in them. “We are deeply concerned about EasyKnock’s lasting impact on vulnerable homeowners, including homeowners with pending residential sale-leaseback agreements with your company, and the extent to which the company will be handling these agreements in the wake of its abrupt closure earlier this month,” wrote the lawmakers. According to reports, EasyKnock customers rarely received anything close to the full market values of their homes, and the company employed predatory tactics, such as consistent rent increases in spite of a lack of improvements to properties, placing customers in financial positions where they could no longer repurchase their homes. “Across America, the allegations against EasyKnock followed a similar pattern: EasyKnock made misleading statements about services to entrap vulnerable homeowners only to break its promises at the expense of working families,” continued the lawmakers. In March 2024, the Connecticut Attorney Gener… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-leads-democratic-colleagues-in-reintroducing-bicameral-legislation-to-expand-support-for-magnet-schools Murphy Leads Democratic Colleagues in Reintroducing Bicameral Legislation to Expand Support for Magnet Schools 2024-12-18 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, along with U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), and Tim Kaine (D-Va.) and U.S. Representatives Joe Courtney (D-Conn.), Jahana Hayes (D-Conn.), and Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (D-Ga.) on Wednesday reintroduced the Magnet Schools Accessibility, Growth, and Nonexclusionary Enrollment Transformation (MAGNET) Act, legislation to strengthen support for magnet schools. The bill would require the federal Magnet Schools Assistance Program (MSAP) grant to prioritize applicants that plan to establish whole-school magnet schools, emphasize inter-district diversity, and propose strategies to improve diversity and academic performance across schools and districts. It would also authorize a new grant program housed under MSAP, the Supplemental Diversity Grant (SDG), which aims to continue supporting the work of existing magnet programs aspiring to improve their diversity-related goals. Magnet schools are public schools designed to cater to different learning styles and attract a wide range of students from different racial and socioeconomic backgrounds across zip codes. More than 3.5 million students attend magnet schools nationwide, but as school districts become increasingly segregated by race and income, this legislation updates the MSAP grant to expand access to funding and ensure it supports magnet schools with the greatest impact on improving diversity and academic performance. In Connecticut, 86 magnet schools serve nearly 40,000 students in grades pre-K through 12 across 29 districts. "Connecticut's magnet schools are proof that desegregating our classrooms improves academic outcomes for everyone," said Murphy. “Expanding access to these schools across the country will ensure every kid – no matter their zip code – can get a quality education. I’m glad to reintroduce this legislation to support existing magnet schools and help other districts get new programs off the grou… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-ricketts-flood-bera-make-bicameral-push-for-gao-study-on-federal-response-to-loneliness-crisis Murphy, Ricketts, Flood, Bera Make Bicameral Push For GAO Study On Federal Response To Loneliness Crisis 2024-12-18 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), and Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), and U.S. Representatives Mike Flood (R-Neb.) and Ami Bera (D-Calif.), sent a bipartisan, bicameral letter to U.S. Comptroller General Gene Dodaro requesting the Government Accountability Office (GAO) conduct a study on federal programs monitoring loneliness and social isolation. In their letter, the lawmakers underscore the alarming increase in loneliness across the United States and call for standardized data collection and a coordinated approach to address the growing health risks associated with social isolation. “The United States is experiencing a crisis of social connection, isolation, and loneliness,” the members wrote. “Today, approximately half of US adults report experiencing loneliness. In 1990, 3% of Americans reported having no close friends; by 2021 that figure had climbed to 12%. The average American spent 8% more time alone in 2019 than they did in 2003. These data points, combined with other research and scholarship, led the Surgeon General to issue a public health advisory on the growing epidemic of loneliness and social isolation.” “Despite the growing acknowledgement that loneliness and social isolation are a problem, there are still no standardized metrics that allows us to monitor these trends,” the members added. “The lack of standardization in data collection is largely due to the diversity of definitions that are found in scientific literature, which leads to inconsistencies in how loneliness and isolation are understood and measured. This variety in data collection methods across studies leads to fragmented data that makes it difficult to draw reliable comparisons. Lacking centralized and uniform definitions and protocols to monitor these metrics limits our ability to effectively address and monitor these important public health issues.” The full text of the letter is available HERE and below: Dear Comptroller General Dodaro: We write to request the Government Accountability Office (GAO) conduct a study to … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-and-murphy-join-colleagues-in-introducing-ndaa-amendment-to-protect-military-parents-right-to-health-care-for-their-kids Blumenthal & Murphy Join Colleagues in Introducing NDAA Amendment to Protect Military Parents' Right to Health Care for their Kids 2024-12-17 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [HARTFORD, CT] – U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, and Chris Murphy (D-CT) joined 19 of their colleagues in introducing an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) of 2025 to remove language that would strip away servicemembers’ parental rights to access medically necessary health care for their transgender children. The U.S. House of Representatives-passed NDAA includes language that bans health care for transgender kids and TRICARE patients under the age of 18. “I have supported and worked hard on the NDAA and its many provisions to enhance and protect our national security as well as Connecticut’s defense industrial base. I have opposed limits on healthcare for families of military personnel. I support this amendment to protect rights of service members and their families to make their own healthcare decisions,” said Blumenthal. “Parents – not politicians – are the only people who should be making health care decisions for their children. This amendment would ensure military families have the same rights as every other family to make sure their kids get the care they need. It is unbelievable that in pushing their hateful, anti-LGBTQ agenda, House Republicans want to punish parents serving our country,” said Murphy. Every major medical and mental health association in the U.S., representing more than 1.3 million U.S. doctors, supports access to this medically necessary, evidence-based health care for transgender people. If the House-passed NDAA becomes law, it is estimated that 6,000 – 7,000 transgender children of servicemembers would not be able to access the health care that their parents had approved. The amendment to the FY2025 NDAA would strike Sec. 708 of the House-passed NDAA, which would ban TRICARE from offering medically sound health care for our youngest transgender servicemembers and to transgender military children under 18. The amendment, led by Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), is also co-sponsored by Senators Ed Markey (D-MA), … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/concerned-with-public-health-threat-blumenthal-urges-epa-to-issue-final-risk-evaluation-of-formaldehyde Concerned with Public Health Threat, Blumenthal Urges EPA to Issue Final Risk Evaluation of Formaldehyde 2024-12-17 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) wrote to Environmental Protection Agency Administrator Michael Regan calling on the EPA to issue a strong, science-based final risk evaluation for formaldehyde, a chemical known to pose serious health risks including cancer. This evaluation would serve as a necessary step to begin work to mitigate the harms of formaldehyde under the Toxic Substances Control Act. “Formaldehyde is a chemical found in everything from household products to pesticides to motor vehicle exhaust. It has long been known to cause adverse health impacts, including cancer,” wrote Blumenthal. “The agency’s own science is clear – formaldehyde is dangerous to human health. Therefore, the agency has an obligation to protect the public from the chemical by following their own science and precedent and concluding the risk is unreasonable.” Blumenthal emphasized the importance of a strong risk evaluation to protecting the health of Americans, writing, “Throughout your tenure, EPA has been steadfast in upholding its vital mission of protecting human health and the environment. I urge you to continue this commitment and issue a final risk evaluation for formaldehyde that is rooted in the best available science and is as strong as possible – a critical step toward future regulatory action to mitigate the known risks of the chemical.” The full text of the letter can be found here and below. December 16, 2024 The Honorable Michael S. Regan Administrator Environmental Protection Agency 1200 Pennsylvania Avenue NW Washington, D.C. 20460 Dear Administrator Regan, I write with concern over the health risks associated with formaldehyde. As highlighted in a recent ProPublica investigation, this chemical is both damaging to human health and near ubiquitous across the country – a dangerous combination.[1] I urge the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to issue a strong, science-based final risk evaluation for formaldehyde as soon as possible, a necessary step for the agency to begin work t… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/online-sports-betting-boom-blumenthal-demands-federal-standards-to-protect-consumers-against-problem-gambling Online Sports Betting Boom: Blumenthal Demands Federal Standards to Protect Consumers Against Problem Gambling 2024-12-17 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [WASHINGTON, DC] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), a member of the Senate Judiciary Committee, underscored the public health impacts of the widespread legalization of sports gambling in a hearing titled, “America’s High-Stakes Bet on Legalized Sports Gambling.” As mobile sports betting surges, Blumenthal called for minimum federal standards like those in his Supporting Affordability and Fairness with Every Bet (SAFE Bet) Act to better protect consumers from addictive practices and features of online sportsbooks and gambling platforms. “We are in the midst of a sports betting boom that is one of the most severe public health problems today,” said Blumenthal. “It is the cause of addiction for millions of Americans with severe gambling problems. It is tearing apart families— literally divorces, abandonment. It is a criminal justice problem, when people get into trouble, and they have to pay back the debts that they owe—when I was U.S. Attorney, I prosecuted extortion and enforcement by the gangs. And of course, it is an unemployment problem, a mental health, behavioral health problem.” Earlier this year, Blumenthal introduced the SAFE Bet Act alongside Congressman Paul D. Tonko (D-NY), which would require states offering sports betting to meet minimum federal standards in the categories of advertising, affordability and Artificial Intelligence to create a safer, less addictive product. Blumenthal is also the author of the Gambling Addiction Recovery, Investment, and Treatment (GRIT) Act, which sets aside federal funds to help prevent, treat, and study gambling addiction in the United States. Video of Blumenthal’s remarks during today’s hearing can be found here. A transcript is available below. Sen. Blumenthal: Thanks, Mr. Chairman. I am very appreciative to you, Mr. Chairman, for holding this hearing and to the witnesses here today—not only for appearing but for your good work and your help to me in drafting the SAFE Bet Act and the GRIT Act. Mr. Whyte, Mr. Levant, Mr. Baker, particularly. You know, we… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-blumenthal-join-colleagues-in-introducing-ndaa-amendment-to-protect-military-parents-right-to-health-care-for-their-kids Murphy, Blumenthal Join Colleagues in Introducing NDAA Amendment to Protect Military Parents’ Right to Health Care for Their Kids 2024-12-17 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) joined 19 of their colleagues in introducing an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) of 2025 to remove language that would strip away servicemembers’ parental rights to access medically necessary health care for their transgender children. The U.S. House of Representatives-passed NDAA includes language that bans health care for transgender kids and TRICARE patients under the age of 18. “Parents – not politicians – are the only people who should be making health care decisions for their children. This amendment would ensure military families have the same rights as every other family to make sure their kids get the care they need. It is unbelievable that in pushing their hateful, anti-LGBTQ agenda, House Republicans want to punish parents serving our country,” said Murphy. “I have supported and worked hard on the NDAA and its many provisions to enhance and protect our national security as well as Connecticut’s defense industrial base. I have opposed limits on healthcare for families of military personnel. I support this amendment to protect rights of service members and their families to make their own healthcare decisions,” said Blumenthal. Every major medical and mental health association in the U.S., representing more than 1.3 million U.S. doctors, supports access to this medically necessary, evidence-based health care for transgender people. If the House-passed NDAA becomes law, it is estimated that 6,000 – 7,000 transgender children of servicemembers would not be able to access the health care that their parents had approved. The amendment to the FY2025 NDAA would strike Sec. 708 of the House-passed NDAA, which would ban TRICARE from offering medically sound health care for our youngest transgender servicemembers and to transgender military children under 18. The amendment, led by Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.), is also co-sponsored by Senators Ed Markey (D-Mass.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-blumenthal-schatz-colleague-reintroduce-legislation-to-avoid-catastrophic-default Murphy, Blumenthal, Schatz, Colleague Reintroduce Legislation to Avoid Catastrophic Default 2024-12-17 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) joined U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai‘i) and 14 of their Senate colleagues in reintroducing the End the Threat of Default Act, legislation that would permanently remove the threat of a default by repealing the national debt ceiling, an arbitrary limit restricting the amount that the United States Treasury can borrow to pay its debts. In June 2023, the president signed legislation that suspended the statutory debt ceiling until January 2, 2025. “No one should have to lose sleep wondering if their Social Security check or military pay will arrive on time just because Congress can’t get its act together,” said Murphy. “But every time we have to debate raising the debt ceiling, we take an unnecessary gamble with those benefits and with people’s lives. It’s time we put a stop to the political games and bring an end to the debt ceiling once and for all.” “Failure to increase an arbitrary debt ceiling would lead to a disruption of critical Social Security and Medicare payments, soaring unemployment, and overall economic catastrophe largely impacting vulnerable populations. I’m proud to support the End the Threat of Default Act, which would repeal the national debt ceiling and permanently remove this threat,” said Blumenthal. “Defaulting on our national debt would be an economic catastrophe for everyone, especially families, veterans, and seniors. Congress has the chance to debate federal spending, and it’s well before the bill comes due,” said Schatz. “We need to stop playing this dangerous game with the nation’s economy and get rid of the debt ceiling for good.” A default would be catastrophic and would likely trigger a recession. Military pay, Social Security and Medicare payments, and Treasury bond yields would all be disrupted. In practice, the debt limit has no impact on government spending, which is authorized and approved through the federal budget and appropriations process. Instead, the ceiling restricts the U.S. Treasury … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-introduces-legislation-to-prevent-frontover-child-deaths Blumenthal Introduces Legislation to Prevent Frontover Child Deaths 2024-12-16 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) announced today the introduction of legislation to prevent child deaths due to frontover incidents. The Standards to Prevent (STOP) Frontovers Act would require all new vehicles to come equipped with cameras, sensors, or other technology to improve drivers’ visibility and perception of kids, pets, and other objects that may be in front of and around their vehicle and avert crashes. Demonstrations by investigative reporters have shown blind zones in front of some cars to be as large as 16 feet, obscuring children from view and putting them at risk of being run over, leading to deaths and injuries. “This mandate for detection devices like cameras or sensors will save lives,” said Blumenthal. “Large blind zones around cars are reportedly resulting in heartbreaking incidents—needlessly killing or severely injuring kids. Safety is not—and should never be—a premium feature only available to those who can afford it; it should be the default. I’m proud to lead the STOP Frontovers Act to require a visibility and perception standard for cars to help prevent tragic, deadly accidents.” “As vehicles have become larger, so have front and side blind zones as demonstrated by research from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and others,” said Cathy Chase, President of Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety. “As a result, vulnerable road users, especially small children, may not be visible to the driver thus endangering them to be hit by the vehicle. We commend Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) for introducing The STOP Frontovers Act which will require technology in new cars to prevent these crashes and heartbreaking tragedies. The STOP Frontovers Act should be given the ‘green light’ to better protect all road users.” “As American automobiles get bigger, their blindzones follow suit, leading to needless tragedies that can be prevented using readily available technology,” said Michael Brooks, Executive Director of Center for Auto Safety. “That’s why the Center fo… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-statement-on-plan-to-lift-syria-sanctions Murphy Statement on Plan to Lift Syria Sanctions 2024-12-16 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Chair of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on Near East, South Asia, Central Asia and Counterterrorism, on Monday released the following statement supporting a plan for the U.S. to lift sanctions on Syria: “Since the collapse of the Assad regime, events are moving quickly to shape the new reality in Syria, and the United States cannot be left on the sideline. Syria's path forward should be determined and led by the Syrian people, but the United States should be actively and directly engaging with the new leadership to help ensure a successful transition and protect key U.S. national security interests. “The U.S. troop presence on the ground in Syria and our sanctions are important points of leverage that require us to be at the table. Decisions in Damascus will be made quickly, and too often other powers act as the U.S. wrings it hands over what to do. If it is in our interest to support the goals of the new government, the U.S. should not be stubbornly reluctant to lift decades-old sanctions that were constructed to put pressure on a government that is no longer in power. Most immediately, the U.S. should temporarily suspend sanctions that hamper the much-needed surge in humanitarian assistance and reconstruction that will be necessary to help support the Syrian people in the short term. “Officials within HTS have publicly stated their intent to govern inclusively, and Syrians and the world will be watching over the coming months ahead to see whether they intend to follow through on that commitment.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-requests-briefing-on-recent-drone-activity-in-new-england-airspace Blumenthal Requests Briefing on Recent Drone Activity in New England Airspace 2024-12-13 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Today, U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) wrote to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), and U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) sharing his concerns regarding the recent reporting of drone activity in the New England airspace, including Connecticut, and requesting a briefing on how the agencies plan to address safety and security concerns. “The proliferation of reported drone activities in this region raises significant safety and security concerns for both commercial and private aviation as well as national security concerns,” wrote Blumenthal. “Incidents involving drones interfering with aircraft operations have increased, posing a real and substantial risk to passengers, crews, and others in the vicinity. And, I am particularly concerned about the potential for these unmanned aerial vehicles – many of which are as large as a car— to disrupt air traffic and, more alarmingly, to be used maliciously to threaten national security.” “It is critical that the FAA take immediate and comprehensive action to ensure the safety of the airspace. I therefore request that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) provide briefing regarding a comprehensive plan, coordinated with interagency partners, on addressing these concerns. This briefing should cover all details available regarding these drones as to ownership, operation, impacts on aviation, national security, and privacy,” continued Blumenthal. The full text of the letter can be found here and below. December 13, 2024 The Honorable Michael Whitaker The Honorable Christopher A. Wray Administrator Director Federal Aviation Administration Federal Bureau of Investigations Washington, D.C. Washington, D.C. The Honorable Alejandro Mayorkas The Honorable Lloyd Austin Secretary Secretary U.S. Department of Homeland Security U.S. Department of Defense Washington, D.C. Washington D.C. Dear Administrator Whitaker, Director Wray, Secretary Mayorkas, and Secr… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-and-cramer-introduce-legislation-to-improve-vision-care-quality-protect-consumer-choice Murphy And Cramer Introduce Legislation To Improve Vision Care Quality, Protect Consumer Choice 2024-12-13 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Kevin Cramer (R-N.D.) introduced the Vision Lab Choice Act of 2024, legislation to allow clinicians to use the medical labs of their choosing and lower costs for both patients and doctors. There are currently just two Vision Benefit Managers (VBMs) that dominate the vision insurance market, providing coverage to two-thirds of Americans with vision benefits. These VBMs often own the frame and lens manufacturers and control which labs an optometrist can use – a dynamic that has resulted in less autonomy for providers and more limited choices for their patients. The Vision Lab Choice Act of 2024 would amend Title XXVII of the Public Health Service Act to allow optometrists to choose the best labs and suppliers for their practice, ensuring patients receive high-quality, personalized vision care. “Right now, VBMs control practically every part of the vision industry – the insurance plans, the manufacturers for frames and lenses, the vision labs – and they use that power to eliminate choice and drive up costs for doctors and patients,” said Murphy. “This bill would solve a small piece of that problem by making sure optometrists aren’t forced to use a VBMs preferred vision lab. Instead, they’ll have the freedom to choose labs that lower costs and cut wait times for patients.” “Vision Benefit Managers are often a hurdle to optometrists and eye care specialists providing the best care to their patients,” said Cramer. “Expanding consumer choice benefits patients when service is improved. I joined Senator Murphy in introducing the bipartisan Vision Lab Choice Act of 2024, so doctors will have more autonomy over which labs they work with and where they source their materials.” Specifically, the Vision Lab Choice Act of 2024 would: Limit contracts between vision care providers (e.g., optometrists) and insurers for limited-scope vision benefits to two-year terms; and Prohibit health plans from restricting or limiting doctors’ choice of laboratories and sources or supplie… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-colleagues-venezuelas-demand-for-freedom-will-not-be-silenced Murphy, Colleagues: Venezuela’s Demand for Freedom Will Not Be Silenced 2024-12-13 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, along with U.S. Senators Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Chris Coons (D-Del.), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), Cory Booker (D-N.J.), Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), and Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.), released the following statement condemning the Maduro regime’s ongoing campaign of intimidation against opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, her family, and peaceful protestors across Venezuela: “On July 28, despite arbitrary candidate bans, rampant censorship, and organized intimidation, Nicolas Maduro suffered a resounding electoral defeat by the people of Venezuela. Their overwhelming support for Edmundo González Urrutia sent a clear message to Maduro, Diosdado Cabello, Padrino Lopez, and all his enablers: state-sponsored violence and disinformation will never silence Venezuela’s cry for freedom. The world has heard this cry, and we will not ignore it. “We call on the Maduro regime to immediately release the thousands of political prisoners unjustly held in its custody – peaceful protestors, women, and children included. The relentless harassment and intimidation of opposition leader Maria Corina Machado and her family are shameless acts of desperation. Maduro must uphold international law, honor Venezuela’s obligations under the Vienna Convention, and end threats to opposition figures who have sought refuge in the Argentine Embassy in Caracas, under the protection of the Brazilian government. “The Maduro regime must respect the results of the July 28 election and conduct a peaceful transfer of power to the democratic opposition. While last week’s announcement of a UN Human Rights Council probe into Maduro’s efforts to subvert Venezuela’s election is a welcome step forward, this alone is not enough. The Biden administration and incoming Trump administration must intensify efforts to address the Maduro regime’s abuses, as true accountability and lasting justice are onl… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-murkowski-lead-senate-colleagues-in-calling-for-action-to-lower-costs-improve-services-for-coast-guard-installations Murphy, Murkowski Lead Senate Colleagues In Calling For Action To Lower Costs, Improve Services For Coast Guard Installations 2024-12-13 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Chairman of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security, and U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-Alaska) led 7 of their Senate colleagues in sending a letter to U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas urging the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to finalize intergovernmental support agreement (IGSA) authority for the U.S. Coast Guard. Granting this authority will allow the Coast Guard to pursue more efficient, cost-saving service contracts through partnerships with local government entities – a practice all other military services have been taking advantage of for over a decade. Since 2013, all military services except for the Coast Guard have been entering IGSAs and coordinating with local and state governments to secure lower-cost contracts for higher-quality services, like waste removal, childcare, and road maintenance. These agreements have delivered millions of dollars in savings, reduced administrative burdens, and improved community relations at military installations across the country – including Naval Submarine Base New London. Despite a 2023 determination that the Coast Guard is also eligible to use IGSA authority, DHS has yet to issue the formal guidance necessary for Coast Guard facilities, like the Coast Guard Academy, to take advantage of these local contracting agreements and to unlock their many benefits. “We appreciate DHS’s attention to IGSA authority and the benefits it can deliver the Coast Guard and local communities, including expanded educational offerings for local children, increased employment options for military spouses, and greater opportunities for small businesses,” the senators wrote. “However, we are concerned by the delay in issuing IGSA guidance and procedures for the Coast Guard, and we worry that unless DHS leadership quickly addresses this disparity, our Coast Guard communities could be left waiting to see these agreements’ benefits for years more. While DHS has many competing demands and pr… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-06-27T22:32:39Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-applauds-senate-passage-of-legislation-to-combat-loneliness-amongst-older-adults Murphy Applauds Senate Passage Of Legislation To Combat Loneliness Amongst Older Adults 2024-12-12 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee (HELP), applauded the passage of the National Resource Center for Engaging Older Adults Act, legislation Murphy introduced to reduce loneliness and improve quality of life for older adults. The National Resource Center for Engaging Older Adults is an effort to increase the social engagement of older adults, people with disabilities, and caregivers by expanding and enhancing services that promote social connection. Murphy’s legislation would support the Center’s work to provide resources and programming to Area Agencies on Aging and community-based organizations like libraries and senior centers. The bill passed the Senate unanimously as part of a reauthorization of the Older Americans Act and passed the HELP Committee by a bipartisan vote earlier this year. “The National Resource Center for Engaging Older Adults helps places like local libraries and senior centers reach out to two of the most socially isolated groups — adults with disabilities and seniors. Nothing is more important for finding happiness and fulfillment in life than having quality relationships with other people. I’m proud we got this done, and I’ll continue to look for ways the federal government can support local places that build community,” said Murphy. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-baldwin-booker-40-senators-no-new-anti-lgbtq-anti-abortion-provisions-in-must-pass-government-funding-bills Murphy, Baldwin, Booker, 40+ Senators: No New Anti-LGBTQ, Anti-Abortion Provisions in Must-Pass Government Funding Bills 2024-12-12 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) joined U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-Wis.) and U.S. Senator Cory Booker (D-N.J.) who led a group of over 40 Senators to urge Senate Appropriations Committee Chair Patty Murray (D-Wash.) and Vice Chair Susan Collins (R-Maine) to keep any new dangerous, hyper-partisan policy provisions that would curtail the freedoms of women and LGBTQ individuals out of must-pass government funding legislation. House Republicans inserted so-called ‘poison pill’ provisions, which would otherwise fail the scrutiny of congressional debate, into critical government funding bills that require broad, bipartisan consensus to pass. The senators wrote, “Dangerous poison pill provisions like those included in the FY25 House appropriations bills will severely undermine Congress’ ability to push forward must-pass legislation and keep the government open and working for the American people. As such, we urge you to reject these extremist riders from the final FY25 appropriations bills.” The senators’ letter is endorsed by Human Rights Campaign, National Family Planning and Reproductive Health Association, ACLU, Guttmacher Institute, Whitman-Walker Institute, National Council of Jewish Women, National Women’s Law Center, Reproductive Freedom for All, Power to Decide, Planned Parenthood Federation of America, Advocates for Trans Equality, and Physicians for Reproductive Health. Full text of the letter can be found by clicking here and follows below: Dear Chair Murray and Vice Chair Collins: We write to urge you to keep the FY25 appropriations bills free of any new poison pill policy riders. Partisan, discriminatory, and harmful policy riders have no place in must-pass legislation such as appropriations bills. In the recent past, the Senate has had success passing bipartisan bills in committee because these bills did not contain new poison pill riders. Unfortunately, in FY25, the House has included more than 55 new anti-abortion and anti-LGBTQ+ riders in its appropriations bills, which we urge yo… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-smith-lujan-reintroduce-legislation-giving-the-us-department-of-labor-more-tools-to-enforce-mental-health-parity-laws Murphy, Smith, Luján Reintroduce Legislation Giving The U.S. Department Of Labor More Tools To Enforce Mental Health Parity Laws 2024-12-12 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, along with U.S. Senators Tina Smith (D-Minn.) and Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M.) on Thursday reintroduced the Parity Enforcement Act, legislation to hold insurance companies accountable and give the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) the authority to assess civil monetary penalties for violations of mental health parity requirements. This new authority would incentivize compliance and strengthen the protections of the Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act. “Despite the fact that insurance companies are required by law to cover mental health the same way they cover physical health, insurers continue to find new ways to dodge compliance and deny coverage of care so they can pad their profits. This is a simple bill to give the Department of Labor the power to enforce mental health parity laws and help ensure patients get the mental health care they need,” said Murphy. “We need to treat mental health with the same urgency we treat physical health, and that means making sure everyone has access to the care they need,” said Smith. “By law, insurance companies are required to provide mental health care as they provide physical health care, yet they continue to find ways to dodge compliance and deny coverage. This bill gives the federal government the teeth they need to hold insurance companies accountable when they don’t follow the law and bring us one step closer to ensuring that everyone has access to quality, affordable mental health care.” "Mental health treatment deserves the same seriousness that physical injury demands. The law demands it and yet far too many Americans go without mental health and behavioral health care because there is not parity for these essential services,” said Luján. “Enforcing mental health parity laws is crucial to holding insurance providers accountable and ensuring compliance. I’m proud to join Senators Murphy and Smith in reintroducing this legislation to strengt… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-who-would-the-sandy-hook-kids-be-today Murphy: Who Would The Sandy Hook Kids Be Today? 2024-12-12 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON—Ahead of the twelfth anniversary of the tragic shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary School, U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) on Thursday spoke on the U.S. Senate floor to honor the twenty children and six educators who were senselessly killed that day and the impact of America’s gun violence epidemic. "I never really know what to say every year when I come down here to give this speech, but because this is the year that those kids would have been going to college and voting for the first time, this year of transition into adulthood, it's worth thinking about who they would be today and what amazing things they might be getting ready to do in their adulthood,” Murphy said. Murphy reflected on a few of the young lives lost that day: “Catherine Hubbard, as early as preschool, just adored animals. And she knew, even when she was six years old, that her purpose in life was to protect animals. She would catch butterflies and put them in her hand, and whisper to them, ‘tell your friends that I am kind.’ Then she'd let them go. She made business cards – she's six! She made business cards for Catherine's Animal Shelter, because she knew that was what she was going to do. She was going to save animals as an adult. Chase Kowalski was a jock. He loved to run, swim, bike. So much so that that year that he died, when he was six years old, he asked his parents to find him a triathlon to compete in. He's six! You wonder what triathlon, training for a triathlon—he ran in that triathlon, he swam in that triathlon, he biked in that triathlon, and he won his age group. That kind of indomitable spirit, the willingness to tackle challenges so big, that's a recipe for success in life. What would Chase Kowalski be getting ready to do right now? What big challenges in the world would he see as an opportunity to confront? What a difference might he be making in the world, having displayed those really rare characteristics as a six-year-old? Emilie Parker was a super talented artist who didn't travel anywhere without her color… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-courtney-applaud-unanimous-house-passage-of-scotland-zip-code-solution Murphy, Courtney Applaud Unanimous House Passage of Scotland Zip Code Solution 2024-12-11 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and U.S. Representative Joe Courtney (D-Conn.-02) on Wednesday celebrated the unanimous passage of H.R. 8753 by the U.S. House of Representatives. The bipartisan legislation includes a provision requiring the U.S. Postal Service to assign a single ZIP code to the town of Scotland, Connecticut. Scotland, a town of just 600 residences, has six zip-codes, often leading to misplaced packages, difficulty requesting mail-in ballots, and uncertainty about where to send students to school. In March, Murphy and Courtney joined forces to introduce bicameral legislation (H.R. 7800 and S. 4052) to direct the USPS to assign Scotland a single zip code. On November 21st, the House Committee on Oversight and Reform approved the House bill, 40-0, as part of a larger package (H.R. 8753), sponsored by Rep. Boebert (R-CO), to address zip-code issues for Americans in 45 towns nationwide. “The people of Scotland have suffered long enough from the logistical nightmare of having six zip codes for one town. It’s great news the House passed this bill, and I’m doing everything I can to make sure the Senate does the same,” said Murphy. “With passage of this bill, the voices of Scotland residents have been heard loud and clear in Washington and we are one step closer to once and for all solving this Monty Python-esque absurdity. Senator Murphy and I will continue working together to get this bill through the Senate and to the President’s desk for signature. The hardworking, taxpaying citizens of Scotland deserve to get the same level of postal service as every other community,” said Courtney. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-and-hawley-demand-answers-regarding-anthems-draconian-policy-capping-anesthesia-coverage-for-patients Blumenthal & Hawley Demand Answers Regarding Anthem's "Draconian" Policy Capping Anesthesia Coverage for Patients 2024-12-10 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Today, U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Josh Hawley (R-MO) wrote Elevance CEO Gail Koziara Boudreaux demanding answers from the company regarding a recent policy change in states including Connecticut and Missouri denying coverage for anesthesia care if a surgery or procedure goes beyond specific time limits pre-determined by the health insurance provider. Anthem announced the new policy earlier this year, and then rescinded it after facing public outcry. Anthem is a subsidiary of Elevance. “As you are well aware, health care providers are sworn to act in the best interest of their patient and are the only individuals in an operating room singularly focused on providing quality, sometimes life-saving medical care. Therefore, without strong documentation to the contrary, it was absurd for Anthem to presume that the anesthesia care being provided to patients needed to be restricted through Anthem-imposed time caps,” wrote the Senators. Blumenthal and Hawley are seeking a commitment from Anthem that the company will not enact a similar anesthesia policy going forward, writing, “In the interest of patients’ health and safety nationwide, we demand answers regarding this ill-conceived policy and clear, direct assurances that a policy cutting off full anesthesia coverage mid-procedure will not be re-considered or re-imposed.” The full text of the letter can be found here and below. December 10, 2024 Gail Koziara Boudreaux Chief Executive Officer Elevance 220 Virginia Ave Indianapolis, Indiana 46203 Dear Ms. Boudreaux, We write with deep concern over recently published reports of a new draconian policy adopted by Anthem in several states, including Connecticut and Missouri, which would limit beneficiary coverage for anesthesiology services during surgical procedures if such surgery goes beyond time limits that are unilaterally set by Anthem. Since this policy was announced – and only because of public outrage – Anthem claims it will not move forward with the policy. In the inter… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-larson-himes-governor-lamont-announce-98-million-in-federal-grants-to-benefit-municipal-parks-in-bridgeport-bristol-and-stamford Murphy, Larson, Himes, Governor Lamont Announce $9.8 Million In Federal Grants To Benefit Municipal Parks In Bridgeport, Bristol, And Stamford 2024-12-09 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper HARTFORD—U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) and U.S. Representatives John Larson (D-Conn.-01) and Jim Himes (D-Conn-04) joined Governor Ned Lamont and the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) to announce that the cities of Bridgeport, Bristol, and Stamford will receive more than $9.8 million in competitive federal funding to benefit four municipal park development projects in each city. The funds are provided through the Land and Water Conservation Fund – Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership grants program (LWCF-ORLP), a nationally competitive program that provides matching grants to cities for park projects in underserved communities. “Public parks are one of the few places where people in the community can come together, spend time outdoors, and connect with friends and neighbors,” said Murphy. “This $9 million in federal funding will help create a new park in Bridgeport and support upgrades to Rockwell, Boccuzzi, and Cummings Parks in Bristol and Stamford, giving Connecticut families more opportunities to enjoy fun outdoor activities like hiking, picnicking, and kayaking for years to come.” “Connecticut families should have access to high-quality parks where they can come together, stay active, and enjoy the outdoors, regardless of where they live,” said Blumenthal. “This $9.8 million in federal funding expands access to parks in Bridgeport, Bristol, and Stamford, and I will continue fighting for federal investments to reinvigorate and develop Connecticut’s outdoor spaces.” “I am glad to see nearly $2 million coming to Bristol through the federal Land and Water Conservation Fund to make long overdue repairs and improvements to Rockwell Park,” said Larson. “This funding will modernize amenities, upgrade facilities, expand park hours, and improve access. I will continue to work with the entire Connecticut delegation and our partners at the state and local levels to secure investments like these that preserve access to outdoor spaces and offer… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-statement-on-the-fall-of-bashar-al-assads-regime-in-syria Murphy Statement On The Fall Of Bashar Al-Assad's Regime In Syria 2024-12-08 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), Chair of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on Near East, South Asia, Central Asia and Counterterrorism, on Sunday released a statement following reports that Syrian President Bashar al-Assad resigned and fled the country after armed rebels took control of the capital city of Damascus: “For more than two decades, the regime of Bashar al-Assad, and of his father who ruled before him, has relied on brutality and oppression to cling to power, torturing and jailing activists and political dissidents, mercilessly killing hundreds of thousands of Syrians, and forcing millions more to flee their homes and country. The toppling of his regime represents a watershed moment for the Syrian people, who now have an opportunity to shape a better future. We know that too often, hopeful revolutions have given way to new power struggles, and there are serious concerns about the nature of some of the groups who have swept into power. Decisions by the new de facto authorities and the willingness of the international community to play a constructive role in Syria will be critical going forward. I urge all parties to support an inclusive political process that protects the rights of all Syrian communities and works towards a free, secure democratic future.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-calls-on-ftc-to-protect-concertgoers-and-venues-from-holiday-ticket-scalpers-urges-strong-enforcement-action Blumenthal Calls on FTC to Protect Concertgoers & Venues From Holiday Ticket Scalpers, Urges Strong Enforcement Action 2024-12-06 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) today called on the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to investigate and take strong enforcement action against deceptive and unlawful practices in the live event ticketing market, including through vigorous enforcement of the Better Online Tickets Sales Act (BOTS Act). The BOTS Act, enacted in December 2016, bans “ticket bots” that bypass security measures on online ticketing websites to outprice individual fans. Since then, the FTC has only enforced the BOTS Act once. In a letter to FTC Chair Lina Khan, Blumenthal urged the agency to enforce existing consumer protection laws and protect concertgoers and small venues from predatory ticketing schemes amid holiday ticket sales. “High-profile ticketing failures, such as Ticketmaster’s mishandling of Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour, have brought renewed attention to the persistent and pervasive issue of scalpers and misleading marketplaces. Concertgoers are increasingly competing with well-resourced scalpers, who crowd out real fans with automated bots to buy out seats for even small, local shows,” wrote Blumenthal. “And, while many venues do all they can to stop bots from buying up their inventory, small and independent venues are outmatched in the arms race against scalper’s sophisticated circumvention and impersonation schemes,” Blumenthal continued. “This struggle to fend off bots and other anti-consumer practices by scalpers also reinforces the market power of large venues and dominant ticket sales platforms, such as Live Nation/Ticketmaster, when independent venues find themselves unable to protect real consumers’ access themselves.” “I urge the Federal Trade Commission to vigorously enforce our consumer protection laws in the live event market, including the BOTS Act, to protect concertgoers and venues from predatory ticketing schemes,” Blumenthal concluded. The full text of Blumenthal’s letter to the FTC is available here and below: December 6, 2024 The Honorable Lina M. Khan Chair Federal Trade Commi… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/icymi-video-blumenthal-questions-us-postmaster-general-dejoy-on-the-future ICYMI Video: Blumenthal Questions U.S. Postmaster General DeJoy on the Future of Unused or Underutilized Postal Service Sites in Connecticut 2024-12-06 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [HARTFORD, CT] – In case you missed it, U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), a member of the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee, questioned U.S. Postmaster General Louis DeJoy yesterday on unused or underutilized United States Postal Service (USPS) sites in Connecticut that are negatively affecting small businesses, economic development, and local residents. In Ridgefield, Connecticut, an often vacant USPS parking lot remains a problem for the town, surrounding businesses, and Ridgefield residents, who cannot use the parking lot to visit other businesses. The lot is underutilized or not used at all for USPS business despite claims from USPS that the parking lot is necessary “during our peak holiday season when mail and package volumes dramatically increase.” During today’s hearing, Blumenthal presented DeJoy with a photograph of the clearly empty lot from December of last year. In 2021, Ridgefield’s mail-handling operations moved to the USPS annex in Danbury, dramatically reducing operations. Blumenthal pressed DeJoy to commit to looking into the issue and consider selling unused or underutilized Connecticut sites which would result in more revenue for the USPS. “In Norwalk, they are in the process of redeveloping their downtown now in real time. In Milford, they are redeveloping a downtown. They want to provide you with reasonable alternatives for the postal property, if it ever is going to be used. I could go through a number of towns where in real time, right now there are businesses, taxpayer interests, and your customers at stake. Why can't we move on some of these properties rather than the Post Office in effect stonewalling the people of Connecticut?” asked Blumenthal. Postmaster General DeJoy committed to joining Blumenthal in Connecticut to visit the Ridgefield Postal Service site, among other unused or underutilized sites. Blumenthal followed up on DeJoy’s commitment sending him a formal invitation letter to join him in a visit to Ridgefield during the winter holiday seas… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-calls-for-expansion-of-darfur-arms-embargo Murphy Calls For Expansion Of Darfur Arms Embargo 2024-12-06 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, on Friday released the following statement on the need to expand the Darfur arms embargo during the United States’ presidency of the UN Security Council: “As the United States assumes the Presidency of the UN Security Council this month, I strongly support Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield’s commitment to using our role to shine a spotlight on the humanitarian catastrophe in Sudan. While our Mission works with partners to set the Council’s agenda for December, we must make it a priority to enforce the Darfur arms embargo and further expand it to cover the entirety of Sudan. While I am grateful the Security Council recently unanimously decided to extend the embargo until September 2025, combatants on both sides of the conflict continue to receive a steady flow of weapons and ammunition from all corners of the country. In turn, both the RSF and SAF use these weapons to continue their brutal campaigns and terrorize innocent civilians. The foreign governments and businesses responsible for violating the embargo, including the United Arab Emirates and Russia, are directly responsible for perpetuating the horrific conflict, which has killed tens of thousands of civilians and become the most severe displacement crisis in the world. The Security Council must step up to expand the embargo and take the necessary steps to hold those responsible for violating it accountable. With December’s presidency, I hope the United States will use all leverage at our disposal to end the bloodshed and bring this devastating conflict to a close.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-calls-on-senate-armed-services-committee-leadership-to-request-hegseth-records-from-veterans-groups Blumenthal Calls on Senate Armed Services Committee Leadership to Request Hegseth Records from Veterans Groups 2024-12-05 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [WASHINGTON, DC] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, wrote Chairman Jack Reed (D-RI) and Ranking Member Roger Wicker (R-MI) requesting that the Committee “ensure that Concerned Veterans of America (CVA) and the Veterans for Freedom (V.F.F.) preserve and produce all financial records and correspondence, particularly concerning credit card transactions, relating to Peter Hegseth’s tenure at these organizations to the Committee for review.” Earlier this week, public reporting revealed that the nominee to lead the Department of Defense was removed from leadership positions at both Concerned Veterans of America and the Veterans for Freedom following significant misconduct and financial mismanagement. The full text of Blumenthal’s letter is available here and copied below. Dear Chairman Reed and Ranking Member Wicker, In light of recent reporting alleging gross misconduct and financial mismanagement on the part of President-elect Trump’s nominee for Secretary of Defense, Peter Hegseth, I request that prior to scheduling any confirmation hearing, the Committee ensure that Concerned Veterans of America (CVA) and the Veterans for Freedom (V.F.F.) preserve and produce all financial records and correspondence, particularly concerning credit card transactions, relating to Peter Hegseth’s tenure at these organizations to the Committee for review. Accusations of Mr. Hegseth’s serious financial abuse and gross misconduct as the Executive Director of V.F.F. from 2007 to 2011 and again as the Executive Director of CVA from 2013 to 2016 make it imperative that the Committee have access to all relevant documentation to assess these claims prior to the Committee considering his nomination. This request includes but is not limited to credit card records, tax filings, receipts, performance reviews, and revenue reports. Thank you for your consideration of my request. -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-blumenthal-larson-courtney-delauro-colleagues-call-on-department-of-education-to-discharge-loans-for-defrauded-borrowers Murphy, Blumenthal, Larson, Courtney, DeLauro, Colleagues Call On Department Of Education To Discharge Loans For Defrauded Borrowers 2024-12-05 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, on Wednesday joined U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) and U.S. Representatives John Larson (D-Conn.-01), Joe Courtney (D-Conn.-02), and Rosa DeLauro (D-Conn.-03) in calling on the U.S. Department of Education to discharge student loan debt for hundreds of thousands of students who were defrauded by predatory schools. During the first Trump administration, defrauded borrowers’ applications for debt relief were left to languish for years, and if reviewed, were often denied. In their letter today, the lawmakers called for the Department to use its authority to immediately discharge debt. Since 2022, the Department has announced group discharges for more than 1.2 million individuals who attended schools that engaged in documented fraud and misconduct, including ITT Technical Institute and Corinthian Colleges. Yet, hundreds of thousands of borrowers are still awaiting their discharges. Many additional borrowers are eligible for borrower defense group discharge because they attended schools for which the Department possesses evidence of fraud and misconduct; 400,000 borrowers have submitted individual applications for borrower defense discharges that the Department has yet to process. “The Biden administration has demonstrated a commitment to supporting student borrowers and mitigating the devastating impact of student loan debt, including issuing targeted debt relief to hundreds of thousands of borrowers defrauded by predatory higher education institutions,” the lawmakers wrote. The lawmakers continued: “We urge the Department of Education to follow through on its commitment by immediately processing debt discharges for borrowers already approved for relief; issuing additional discharges for students who attended institutions with documented histories of predatory practices; and processing any outstanding borrower defense applications.” U.S. Senators Edward Markey (D-Mass.), Dick Dur… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-calls-on-dot-and-treasury-to-investigate-airlines-junk-fee-tactics Blumenthal Calls on DOT and Treasury to Investigate Airlines' Junk Fee Tactics 2024-12-04 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Chair of the Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations (PSI), today urged the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and the U.S. Department of Treasury to review major airlines’ tactics to boost revenue from excessive ancillary or “junk” fees, which have resulted in higher costs and negative experiences for consumers. Last week, Blumenthal released a Majority staff report today’s PSI hearing Pointing to the Subcommittee’s finding that Frontier and Spirit airlines paid $26 million in combined incentive payments to gate agents and other personnel between 2022 and 2023 to enforce airline bag policies that boost airline revenue, Blumenthal wrote to Secretary Buttigieg, “I write to request that the DOT review the Subcommittee’s report, which is enclosed with this letter, and conduct a thorough investigation into Frontier and Spirit’s policies, practices, and training surrounding the payment of incentives to gate agents and others charged with applying discretion in the application of bag policies. I further urge that, if the DOT determines that either Frontier or Spirit have engaged in unfair or deceptive practices in their implementation of ancillary incentive payments, it should prohibit the practices in question and access civil penalties if appropriate.” Blumenthal also urged DOT to consider PSI’s findings as it pursues its inquiry into the state of competition in air travel with the Department of Justice, “The Subcommittee’s investigation of American Airlines, Delta, United, Frontier, and Spirit, which together control 60% of the domestic air travel market, also revealed how the decline in airline competition has harmed American consumers. Airline industry consolidation over the past 20 years has left a handful of major airlines that implement ancillary fee increases in lock step, often leaving customers no way to avoid certain fees.” In his letter to Secretary Yellen, Blumenthal called on the department to ensure uniform application of the transpor… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-delivers-opening-statement-at-hearing-with-airline-executives-on-junk-fees Blumenthal Delivers Opening Statement at Hearing with Airline Executives on Junk Fees 2024-12-04 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [WASHINGTON, DC] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Chair of the Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations (PSI), delivered opening remarks at today’s hearing on “The Sky’s the Limit – New Revelations About Airline Fees.” Prior to the hearing, Blumenthal wrote to the U.S. Department of Transportation and the U.S. Department of Treasury referring PSI’s findings from its investigation into airline junk fees and urging the agencies to take action to protect consumers. “Last week was the busiest, or certainly one of the busiest, of our travel weekends,” Blumenthal said. “18 million people in the air, and many of them frustrated and infuriated, not just by delays and cancellations—some of them inevitable—but by fees that seemed to be sky high with no prospect of landing. In fact, they feel with more than understandable justification that they are piggy banks to be shaken down by these skyrocketing fees that seem to have no connection to any costs that the airlines incur. In fact, our investigation shows they have no connection to actual costs that the airlines are bearing.” “The five airlines here today generated $25.3 billion in checked bag fees over the past six years. In fact, airlines have forced parents to choose between sitting apart from their minor children and paying an extra fee,” Blumenthal continued. Blumenthal underscored the findings of PSI’s investigation into airline junk fees as published in last week’s Majority staff report, “Our investigation found that in 2023 alone, American, Delta, United, Frontier, and Spirit collected more than $3 billion in seat fees. Only seat fees. That is not airfare. That is just fees for booking a specific seat in advance or selecting a slightly better seat. And that’s an increase of 50% from 2018, just six years ago.” Blumenthal concluded by calling for action to lower costs for consumers, increase price transparency, and review the state of competition within the airline industry, “First of all, more must be done to address the rising cost of air travel… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-blumenthal-applaud-senate-passage-of-bipartisan-slow-down-move-over-resolution Murphy, Blumenthal Applaud Senate Passage of Bipartisan Slow Down, Move Over Resolution 2024-12-04 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper HARTFORD—U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) applauded Senate passage of the bipartisan Slow Down, Move Over resolution, which raises awareness of Slow Down, Move Over state laws to reduce struck-by-vehicle injuries and fatalities and to recognize the important role fire and rescue personnel, emergency medical services personnel, law enforcement officers, tow truck operators, and transportation workers play in road safety. The resolution is inspired by Corey Iodice, a tow truck operator, who was tragically struck and killed on the Merritt Parkway in Connecticut in 2020 while assisting a driver. “When I walk across the state every year, I see firsthand how reckless driving endangers everyone on the road, especially our law enforcement, emergency personnel, and transportation workers,” said Murphy. “With roadway deaths on the rise in Connecticut, this bipartisan resolution is a reminder of why Slow Down, Move Over laws are so important to helping prevent the tragedies that have already taken far too many lives.” “This year, State Trooper First Class Aaron Pelletier, Andrew DiDomenico, Jose Diaz Nieves, and Corey Iodice will be absent from family holiday dinner tables. They tragically lost their lives on Connecticut roads, and so many other preventable deaths and injuries occur on our roadways every year,” said Blumenthal. “Today, I’m proud that the Senate has passed this bipartisan resolution to promote greater adherence and stronger enforcement of Slow Down, Move Over laws to prevent these tragic deaths.” All 50 states have Slow Down, Move Over laws that direct motorists to reduce speed or change lanes for stopped emergency and maintenance vehicles. Still, many motorists are unaware of them and roadside fatalities and injuries continue. In 2023, 45 traffic incident management responders were killed in the United States due to roadside collisions. U.S. Senators Mike Braun (R-Ind.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Deb Fischer (R-Neb.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Ben Ray Luján (D-N.M… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-blumenthal-introduce-legislation-to-strengthen-labor-protections-for-minor-league-baseball-players Murphy, Blumenthal Introduce Legislation To Strengthen Labor Protections For Minor League Baseball Players 2024-12-04 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) introduced the Fair Ball Act, legislation that would amend the Fair Labor Standards Act of 1938 to ensure minor league baseball players receive minimum wage and overtime protections, unless they are already protected under a collective bargaining agreement. The bill seeks to repeal provisions of the 2018 Save America’s Pastime Act, which exempted teams from adhering to federal minimum wage and overtime requirements, while encouraging MLB to uphold collective bargaining agreements and ensuring those exemptions cannot be used as leverage in future negotiations. “Connecticut fans know how much minor league teams like the Hartford Yard Goats mean to our communities,” said Murphy. “But for years, the athletes who work hard to make it all possible have been left behind by outdated and unfair labor laws. The Fair Ball Act is about righting a wrong and making sure minor league players get the fair pay and protections they deserve.” “Minor League Baseball players deserve to be fairly compensated when their determination, diligence, and discipline drive millions in revenue for MLB owners,” said Blumenthal. “Unfortunately, MLB has worked vigorously to lobby for loopholes to avoid paying a minimum wage. I’m proud to support the Fair Ball Act which will shore up protections for Minor League Baseball players ensuring they receive fair compensation and that they’re able to continue fighting for increased wages and benefits.” In 2018, Major League Baseball successfully lobbied for legislation to shield itself from a class-action lawsuit alleging the league and its teams violated federal and state wage and hour laws. The league argued that 2018 legislation would protect Minor League teams from being contracted only to contract dozens of Minor League Baseball teams just two years later. The new Fair Ball Act would help protect Minor League players and the gains they have made to earn a living wage as a result of their historic unionization under t… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-highlights-watertowns-koster-keunen-as-innovator-of-the-month Murphy Highlights Watertown's Koster Keunen As "Innovator Of The Month" 2024-12-04 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper HARTFORD–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) announced on Wednesday that Koster Keunen, based in Watertown, was named “Innovator of the Month” for its leadership in natural wax production and technology. Founded in 1852, Koster Keunen specializes in the ethical development, processing, and manufacturing of wax ingredients and derivatives. The company pioneered the world’s first certified, 100% sustainably sourced beeswax and operates its Watertown facility with a 660kW solar array, offsetting nearly 900 tons of carbon emissions each year. “Koster Keunen’s innovation and commitment to sustainability highlights the power of Connecticut businesses to lead on a global scale. I’m proud to recognize this family-owned business for its pioneering efforts to create ethical, environmentally friendly solutions and pave the way for better working conditions around the world,” said Murphy. “This award is a testament to the values that have guided my family and our company for five generations. It's a recognition of our deep-rooted commitment to sustainability, community empowerment, and ethical business practices. To be acknowledged on a global stage for these efforts is truly humbling,” said John Koster, President of Koster Keunen. “At Koster Keunen, we believe innovation is the driving force behind sustainability and creating positive global impact. We are proud to be a Connecticut-based company, contributing to the state's rich legacy of ingenuity and environmental stewardship.” Koster Keunen was awarded the 2024 U.S. Secretary of State Award for Corporate Excellence in Innovation to Strengthen Communities, which recognizes U.S. companies that uphold high standards of ethical conduct, promote human rights and community development, and demonstrate environmental and social responsibility in their overseas operations. The recognition shines a spotlight on the positive impact Koster Keunen has made all over the world, where the company has partnered with local communities to empower local entrepreneurs and promote sustaina… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-statement-on-developments-in-south-korea Murphy Statement On Developments In South Korea 2024-12-03 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, on Tuesday released the following statement on the developments in South Korea: “President Yoon’s decision to declare martial law and deploy troops to the parliament was extraordinarily misguided and the National Assembly was right to quickly vote to reverse it. In declaring martial law, President Yoon aimed to bypass democratic processes and crush political dissent. South Korea has long been one of our most important allies, but this was a deeply troubling move by President Yoon, and I am glad the country’s institutions moved quickly to condemn it.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-statement-on-new-democratic-leadership-position Murphy Statement On New Democratic Leadership Position 2024-12-03 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) on Tuesday released the following statement after the Senate Democratic caucus voted to appoint him to the position of Deputy Conference Secretary within the Senate Democratic leadership team. “I’m grateful to have a seat at the table as we chart the path forward for our party. In no uncertain terms, the American people sent us a message in November. If we want to win back working-class voters, we need to change how we fight and how we communicate. I look forward to working with Leader Schumer and the rest of the leadership team as we work to build a coalition to fight back against Trump's billionaire agenda in the upcoming Congress.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-on-meet-the-press-this-cabinet-is-donald-trump-and-the-billionaire-class-using-government-to-enrich-themselves-at-the-cost-of-the-american-people Murphy On Meet The Press: This Cabinet Is Donald Trump And The Billionaire Class Using Government To Enrich Themselves At The Cost Of The American People 2024-12-01 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper WASHINGTON–U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) on Sunday joined NBC News’s Meet the Press with Kristen Welker to discuss President-elect Donald Trump’s cabinet nominations. Murphy also discussed the path forward for the Democratic Party and the importance of shifting power away from billionaires and corporations and back to the American people. On President-elect Trump’s nomination of Kash Patel to serve as Director of the FBI, Murphy said: “I will vote no, and I will organize not just my colleagues, but the American public to understand what's happening here. Donald Trump told the American public during the campaign that he was going to turn the Department of Justice into a political operation, an arm of the White House, to destroy his political opponents, right. He said that the greatest threat to America is the enemy within. And who he said was the enemy within was us – was journalists, were his political opponents. Kash Patel’s only qualification is [that] he agrees with Donald Trump that the Department of Justice should serve to punish, lock up, and intimidate Donald Trump's political opponents. Murphy continued: “The cost to the American public is pretty simple. The Department of Justice and the FBI [are] supposed to be there to go after drug traffickers, gun smugglers, to go after corrupt Wall Street financiers. Instead, the Department of Justice is going to serve Donald Trump's political interests. That's what Kash Patel has said he thinks the Department of Justice and the FBI should do, and that's why Republicans and Democrats should be examining how damaging this nomination could be to American democracy.” Murphy highlighted the fact that Trump is using his cabinet nominations to help enrich his billionaire friends: “What worries me about this cabinet is that it is essentially putting the billionaire class in charge of American government. The net worth of Donald Trump's nominees is greater than 169 countries. The folks that are being nominated to run the Department of Commerce, Treasury, Education, … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:13:55Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/icymi-following-blumenthal-tester-takano-push-va-moves-to-cover-k-2-veterans-sicked-by-uranium-radiation ICYMI: Following Blumenthal, Tester, Takano Push, VA Moves to Cover K-2 Veterans Sicked by Uranium Radiation 2024-11-08 2024 2024-11 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – In case you missed it, following sustained oversight efforts from U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Jon Tester (D-MT) and U.S. Representative Mark Takano (D-CA), the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announced it has begun an expedited process to expand the presumptive conditions associated with service at the Karshi Khanabad (K-2) Air Base in Uzbekistan. VA intends to establish service-connected presumptive benefits for veterans who served at K-2 in order to make it easier for K-2 veterans suffering from a litany of cancers, immunological disorders, and other health conditions to receive earned benefits. VA’s move to expand toxic-exposed benefits for K-2 veterans follows Blumenthal, Tester, and Takano’s push on VA Secretary McDonough last month, where they called on the Secretary directly to use authorities granted to the Department by the PACT Act to ensure K-2 veterans exposed to radiation receive the benefits they have earned. “K-2 veterans deserve comprehensive care and benefits – without exception,” Blumenthal said. “This action from the Department of Veterans Affairs marks important and commendable progress in doing right by them and ensuring they receive proper health care. I look forward to the continued action of the VA in honoring the service and sacrifice of all veterans, and especially those who served at Karshi Khanabad who suffer from exposure to toxins and poisons, by providing access to the treatment and care they have rightfully earned.” “Every veteran exposed to toxins during their military service deserves access to the benefits and health care they earned and were promised,” Tester said. “We fought alongside veterans to pass the PACT Act and ensure that was the case for generations of toxic-exposed veterans. I’m encouraged VA is now using this law to add new presumptive benefits for K-2 veterans exposed to toxic substances. And I’ll keep holding VA accountable to continue taking the necessary and immediate steps to do right by K-2 veterans.” “Veterans who … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:07:06Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-highlights-sheltons-aspira-womens-health-as-innovator-of-the-month Murphy Highlights Shelton's Aspira Women's Health As "Innovator Of The Month" 2024-11-04 2024 2024-11 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 on Monday that Aspira Women’s Health, a bio-analytical company based in Shelton, was named “Innovator of the Month” for its leadership in the development of blood tests that aid in the detection of ovarian cancer. The company’s flagship products, OvaWatch and Ova1Plus, employ AI technology towards effective ovarian cancer risk assessment and drive higher standard of care for women with ovarian masses. Last month, Aspira was awarded $10 million in federal funding to develop a non-invasive blood test to detect endometriosis, which is currently diagnosed through invasive surgery. “For decades, underinvestment in women’s health has meant that women and girls simply aren’t getting access to the treatments and care they deserve. I’m proud to see Aspira’s cutting-edge biomedical research positioning Connecticut as a leader in women’s healthcare and improving lives through earlier risk assessment, more accurate diagnoses, and innovative, personalized care,” said Murphy. “We are honored to be Innovator of the Month and proud to represent Connecticut on the national women’s healthcare stage. For far too long, women have been forced to resort to surgical interventions for diagnosis of gynecologic diseases. Aspira aims to change that. We believe all women deserve the opportunity to make healthcare decisions based on facts instead of fear,” said Nicole Sandford, CEO of Aspira Women’s Health. “Endometriosis is a chronic condition that impacts as many as six million women in the United States alone. It alters nearly every facet of a patient’s life, many of whom must wait years for a diagnosis. We believe Aspira is uniquely qualified to solve this problem. Our diagnostic solutions focus on a data-driven approach and powerful AI-enabled algorithms that offer noninvasive alternatives to aid in the detection of gynecologic disease. Our suite of blood tests to assess ovarian cancer risk in women with masses which have been ordered by healthcare providers more than 200,000 time… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:07:06Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-calls-for-ftc-investigation-into-misleading-claims-made-by-manufacturers-of-bulletproof-school-supplies Blumenthal Calls for FTC Investigation into Misleading Claims Made by Manufacturers of Bulletproof School Supplies 2024-11-01 2024 2024-11 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) today called on the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to investigate seemingly deceptive advertising practices of manufacturers producing allegedly bulletproof school supplies. According to recent reporting from The New York Times, manufacturers of such products, including bulletproof pencil cases, binders, and backpack inserts, have touted certification by the National Institute of Justice, which neither tests nor certifies school products of any kind. Blumenthal is urging the FTC to take action, as these false marketing claims may give parents a false sense of security and potentially divert resources and attention away from solutions that are proven to help keep kids safe. “While it is tragic that school supplies that purport to protect our children from gun violence in the classroom are necessary, at least 139 instances of gunfire have occurred on K-12 school grounds so far in 2024 alone. Eager to protect their children, parents are paying high prices, such as $185 for a pencil case and $149 for a ‘bulletproof backpack insert.’ And costs are even higher for school districts: desks marketed as bulletproof can cost up to ten times the price of a standard desk,” wrote Blumenthal in a letter to FTC Chair Lina Khan. “These unsupported claims of U.S. government approval suggest that these companies are interested in profit, not children’s safety,” Blumenthal concluded. “I ask that the Commission investigate these companies to determine whether any unlawful, unfair, or deceptive advertising practices are taking place. Parents deserve better than false promises of security for their children.” In addition to calling for an FTC investigation, Blumenthal wrote to more than a dozen companies that have made seemingly deceptive advertising claims, seeking information about the safety and certifications of their products. Blumenthal’s letters to these companies are available here. The full text of Blumenthal’s letter to the FTC is available here and below: Novem… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:07:06Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-calls-for-review-of-icc-prosecutors-decision-to-apply-for-arrest-warrants-for-israeli-prime-minister-and-minister-of-defense Blumenthal Calls for Review of ICC Prosecutor's Decision to Apply for Arrest Warrants for Israeli Prime Minister and Minister of Defense 2024-11-01 2024 2024-11 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) today joined U.S. Senators Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Ben Cardin (D-MD), John Thune (R-SD), Joni Ernst (R-IA), and John Fetterman (D-PA) in calling for an investigation into misconduct allegations against International Criminal Court (ICC) Prosecutor Karim A.A. Khan. In a letter to the Assembly of States Parties (ASP), the governing body of the ICC, the Senators raised concerns regarding Prosecutor Khan’s decision to apply for arrest warrants for Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Minister of Defense Yoav Gallant. The Senators wrote, “We write you today with great concern regarding the inappropriate actions taken by Prosecutor Karim A.A. Khan in his decision to seek arrest warrants for the duly elected Prime Minister and Defense Minister of the State of Israel. As the oversight body of the International Criminal Court (ICC) with the power to appoint and remove the Prosecutor, we implore you to exercise the authority granted to you by the Rome Statute to investigate the highly irregular and potentially illegal actions by the Prosecutor in this case.” The Senators continued, “First, Prosecutor Khan did not comply with the law when he applied for arrest warrants against Israeli government officials… we received notification that members of Prosecutor Khan’s team were scheduled to meet with legal representatives for the State of Israel on May 20 in Israel. To our astonishment, however, members of the Prosecutor’s office never boarded the plane to Israel and the meeting was abruptly canceled just a few hours before it was to take place... Prosecutor Khan’s abrupt cancelation and his announcement of an application for arrest warrants on that same day have always been perplexing, and stand in stark contrast to the assurances we received from his office that there would be meaningful consultations with Israel, as required by the letter and spirit of the Rome Statute.” The Senators continued, “Second, in addition to these legal concerns regarding Prose… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:07:06Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/icymi-video-blumenthal-sounds-alarm-on-medicare-advantage-insurers-denying-critical-care-for-vulnerable-seniors ICYMI Video: Blumenthal Sounds Alarm on Medicare Advantage Insurers Denying Critical Care for Vulnerable Seniors 2024-11-01 2024 2024-11 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – In case you missed it, U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Chair of the Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations (PSI), released a Majority staff report detailing how the nation’s three largest Medicare Advantage insurers—UnitedHealthcare, Humana, and CVS—are intentionally using prior authorization to boost profits by denying-post acute care. In a recent video, Blumenthal highlights how these insurers continue to deny critical treatments and care to vulnerable seniors and the urgent need for accountability and reform of the harmful practices of insurers. “Insurance companies say that prior authorization is meant to prevent unnecessary medical services. But the Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations has obtained new data and internal documents from the largest Medicare Advantage insurers that discredits these contentions. In fact, despite alarm and criticism in recent years about abuses and excesses, insurers have continued to deny care to vulnerable seniors – simply to make more money,” said Blumenthal in the video. “Reform is imperative and urgent. Federal regulators need better information to identify misconduct and root out abuse. They should make sure that emerging technologies are used to help providers and empower patients, not line the pockets of insurers,” continued Blumenthal. “Major improvements to prior authorization procedures are absolutely necessary. Regulators shouldn’t have to be looking over insurers’ shoulders every time a senior citizen falls or suffers a stroke. But federal oversight and intervention is necessary if these companies can’t do better for patients, and put them ahead of profits.” Click HERE for the full video of PSI Chair Blumenthal discussing the report In May 2023, PSI launched its investigation by seeking documents and information from UnitedHealthcare, Humana, and CVS—three insurers who together cover nearly 60 percent of all Medicare Advantage enrollees. This report presents new findings based on the more than 280,000 pages of documents obtained… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:07:06Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-blumenthal-larson-delauro-announce-250000-to-prevent-pollution Murphy, Blumenthal, Larson, DeLauro Announce $250,000 To Prevent Pollution 2024-11-01 2024 2024-11 Democrat Senate CT Christopher Murphy M001169 www.murphy.senate.gov chrismurphy https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases scraper EAST HARTFORD—U.S. Senators Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) and U.S. Representatives John Larson (D-Conn.-01) and Rosa DeLauro (D-Conn.-03) announced the Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (CT DEEP) has been selected to receive $250,000 in federal grants to provide technical assistance to help Connecticut businesses develop and adopt pollution prevention practices in local communities. CT DEEP will partner with the Toxic Use Reduction Institute at University of Massachusetts Lowell to identify safer cleaning and sanitizing products for craft beverage manufacturers in Connecticutto reduce energy use and greenhouse gas emissions, solid and hazardous waste, water pollution and toxic chemicals. CT DEEP will also continue to work with other New England states to offer the BetterBev recognition program, which incentivizes businesses to carry out pollution reduction measures. Facilities in or adjacent to communities with environmental justice concerns will be prioritized. “We won’t achieve our climate goals unless everybody is involved in the fight, but small businesses often face greater barriers to making the upfront investments for cleaner practices. By providing direct technical support to Connecticut’s local craft beverage manufacturers, this $250,000 in federal funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will help small business owners across our state adopt more sustainable, cost-effective practices that reduce harmful emissions, strengthen our economy, and safeguard the health of our communities for generations to come,” said Murphy. “This investment in greener craft breweries and wineries will help them be even more successful as environmental stewards. With greater technical aid, beverage businesses can expand consumer appeal by reducing pollution and protecting natural resources. It’s a boost for our economy and environment,” said Blumenthal. “Addressing pollution at the source is key to protecting community health and taking on the threat of climate c… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:07:06Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-congressional-delegation-announce-39-million-in-clean-ports-investments-to-reduce-emissions-improve-public-health-in-southern-connecticut Murphy, Congressional Delegation Announce $39 Million In Clean Ports Investments To Reduce Emissions, Improve Public Health In Southern Connecticut 2024-11-01 2024 2024-11 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 Appropriations Committee, and U.S. SenatorRichard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) on Friday joined U.S. Representatives Joe Courtney (D-Conn.-02) and Rosa DeLauro (D-Conn.-03) to announce that the Connecticut Port Authority and Gateway Terminal, in partnership with the New Haven Port Authority, have been selected to receive nearly $40 million in total through EPA’s Clean Ports Program to support the deployment of zero-emission port equipment and infrastructure. “Our ports are the driving force behind Connecticut’s blue economy, but the diesel-powered equipment we use to move goods through them is polluting nearby communities and taking a toll on public health. By replacing aging, polluting equipment with cleaner, zero-emission alternatives, this $39 million in federal funding will help keep ports in New Haven and New London running smoothly while improving quality of life, creating good-paying jobs, and moving us closer to achieving our climate goals,” said Murphy. “This milestone investment will make our ports cleaner and healthier – using zero-emission equipment. Stopping air pollution while modernizing and enhancing port facilities is a gigantic win for both our environment and economy. Communities around the ports will have better air and jobs,” said Blumenthal. “The redevelopment and modernization of State Pier New London in 2019 dramatically increased its square footage and weight bearing capacity, with an eye to both increased cargo activity, as well as wind turbine assembly. With this $5 million new federal investment funded by the Inflation Reduction Act, the pier can now install zero-emission power equipment so that docked ships can power onboard services. This upgrade will keep New London State Pier competitive with the maritime industry and protect water quality in the Thames River,” said Courtney. “I am pleased to announce that Gateway Terminals and the Connecticut Port Authority will receive vital grant funding that will reduce die… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:07:06Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-connecticut-delegation-announce-778-million-in-home-energy-assistance-funding Murphy, Connecticut Delegation Announce $77.8 Million In Home Energy Assistance Funding 2024-11-01 2024 2024-11 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 Appropriations Committee, and U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) on Friday joined U.S. Representatives John Larson (D-Conn.-01), Joe Courtney (D-Conn.-02), Rosa DeLauro (D-Conn.-03), Jim Himes (D-Conn.-04) and Jahana Hayes (D-Conn-05) to announce Connecticut will receive $77,834,656 from the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) to help reduce heating costs for low-income families in Connecticut ahead of the winter season. This is the first allocation of LIHEAP dollars this season. “For too many families in Connecticut, falling temperatures mean having to choose between heating your home or putting food on the table. This $77.8 million in LIHEAP funding will help ease that burden for households feeling the strain of rising energy costs this winter, and as a member of the Senate Appropriations Committee, I’ll keep working with our delegation to ensure Connecticut families continue to have the support they need so they don’t have to make those difficult choices,” said Murphy. “This home heating aid is desperately needed by families who face a frigid winter without fuel for basic warmth,” said Blumenthal. “With $77.8 million, many families will be assured this basic necessity. Every day, I see and speak to people struggling to make ends meet and worrying about financial hardships and challenges. I’ll fight for more federal support for LIHEAP and other programs that help them with essential needs.” “As we approach the winter months, we must ensure all families are able to heat their homes without breaking the bank,” said Larson. “Thanks to the steadfast leadership of Rep. Rosa DeLauro on the Appropriations Committee, I am thrilled to join the entire Connecticut delegation to announce $77.8 million in new funding to help families afford their energy bills. We will continue to work together to ensure Connecticut residents can get the assistance they need this season.” “There’s no question high energy costs are pinching h… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T22:07:06Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-warns-of-hazardous-chemicals-found-in-acne-products-calls-on-fda-to-take-action Blumenthal Warns of Hazardous Chemicals Found in Acne Products, Calls on FDA to Take Action 2024-10-31 2024 2024-10 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) today called on the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to take swift action regarding dangerously high levels of benzene, a known hormone disruptor and carcinogen, found in popular acne treatment products from brands like Clearasil, Proactiv, and CVS Health. In a letter to FDA Commissioner Dr. Robert Califf, Blumenthal urged the agency to update industry guidelines for manufacturers using benzoyl peroxide (BPO) as an active ingredient and immediately inform consumers of the significant health risks posed by benzene in degraded BPO products. Blumenthal’s letter follows a recent study from Valisure that found some products contained levels more than 18 times the FDA conditional limit for benzene at room temperature and over 800 times the conditional limit at elevated temperatures. “I am alarmed by recent reports and a new study that found high levels of benzene, a known hormone disruptor and carcinogen, in popular acne treatment products from brands like Clearasil, Proactiv, and CVS Health. In March 2023 a study from Valisure, an independent quality assurance company, revealed that products containing benzoyl peroxide (BPO) ‘are fundamentally unstable and can generate unacceptably high levels of benzene,’” Blumenthal wrote. Blumenthal warned of the health risks associated with exposure to high levels of benzene, “As you know, benzene is one of the most commonly used chemicals in the United States but it is also strongly linked to higher risks of cancer, specifically leukemia and other blood related conditions. In the short term, exposure to benzene can lead to problems with the nervous system causing drowsiness, headaches, or tremors.” “It is imperative that FDA take immediate action to address these troubling findings and prevent future health issues. In light of these test results, it is clear that FDA must conduct a thorough review of BPO products and promulgate clearer regulations on the use of BPO, its storage protocols, and generally regardin… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-op-ed-for-the-financial-times-breaking-up-concentrated-economic-power-must-be-a-foreign-policy-priority Murphy Op-Ed For The Financial Times: Breaking Up Concentrated Economic Power Must Be A Foreign Policy Priority 2024-10-29 2024 2024-10 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, on Tuesday authored an op-ed for the Financial Times arguing that American foreign and domestic policies must align to break up concentrated economic power and revitalize local communities. Pointing to the Biden-Harris administration’s work to break up corporate monopolies, rebuild local economies, and create a new industrial policy, Murphy called for America’s foreign policy to be similarly reshaped. Murphy described how the Biden-Harris Administration’s decision at the World Trade Organization to block new data transit rules reflects a larger effort to combat the consequences of neoliberalism: “They saw the negotiations through the prism of America’s twin crises of alienation and the concentration of economic power. While all the key economic indicators point to a country that has bounced back from the pandemic, rates of addiction, self-harm and political extremism continue to rise as more Americans report feeling unhappy and disconnected from their communities. This alienation is the wreckage left in the wake of a half century of shared, bipartisan faith in economic neoliberalism — the doctrine that unrestricted free trade and market forces would best uphold the public good. The unchecked gobbling up of economic power by a few large corporations has left us with broken supply chains and uncompetitive markets.” Murphy underscored the need for a post-neoliberal foreign policy that aims to break up concentrated global economic power, protect fair trade, and breathe life back into local communities: “Trade agreements should be put to a simple test: will the terms concentrate or distribute private economic power? When new rules clearly give large global companies too much power over workers and citizens in individual nation states, then the answer must be to rewrite or reject them, as demonstrated by Tai. A post-neoliberal foreign policy must also challenge the ability of state-run economies to rig the rules o… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-blumenthal-31-colleagues-urge-biden-to-continue-bold-executive-action-to-lower-housing-costs Murphy, Blumenthal, 31 Colleagues Urge Biden To Continue Bold Executive Action To Lower Housing Costs 2024-10-28 2024 2024-10 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.) joined 31 other members of Congress in sending a letter to President Joe Biden applauding his actions to confront the housing crisis and proposing additional executive actions to lower the cost of housing. “Under your leadership, the Biden-Harris Administration has taken important steps to protect renters from predatory corporate landlords and to make home purchases and refinancing more affordable,” the members wrote. “But there is even more that can be done using executive agencies’ existing statutory authority.” The lawmakers recommend the Administration and federal agencies take the following actions: Price Gouging Protections: In order to safeguard tenants from rising rents at the hands of corporate landlords who have been caught price gouging their tenants, FHFA can condition all Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac multifamily loans on a set of price gouging protections, source of income protections, anti-eviction regulations, and habitability and accessibility improvements. Tackle Junk Fees: To address the hidden junk fees that can create thousands of dollars in additional costs for renters and homeowners, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) should finalize its proposed rule to ban junk fees and continue to investigate unfair and deceptive practices by corporate landlords. Additionally, the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) should address anticompetitive closing costs and junk fees, lowering closing costs for home mortgages and making homeownership more accessible. Lower Credit Report Costs: As the Fair Isaac Corporation (FICO) enjoys a near monopoly in the credit scoring market, the Department of Justice (DOJ) should investigate whether the company is violating antitrust law, and the CFPB should explore potential remedies to exploding credit reporting costs, including a cap on fees that credit reporting agencies can charge and interoperability requirements that would allow consumers to move their credit scores without new… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-blumenthal-kaine-lead-colleagues-in-engaging-administration-on-proposal-to-address-submarine-production-delays Murphy, Blumenthal, Kaine Lead Colleagues In Engaging Administration On Proposal To Address Submarine Production Delays 2024-10-28 2024 2024-10 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.), Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) and Tim Kaine (D-Va.) on Friday led a bipartisan group of their Senate colleagues in asking the Biden Administration to address funding shortfalls for submarine programs as they consider funding levels for Fiscal Year 2025. In two separate letters to Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Director Shalanda Young and Department of the Navy Secretary Carlos Del Toro, the lawmakers also urged the Administration to carefully assess the merits of the proposed Shipbuilder Accountability and Workforce Support (SAWS) agreement—which would restructure how the Navy pays for submarines—as a potential solution to address delays and get the programs back on track. While Congress has invested over $2.3 billion between 2018 and 2023 and an additional $3 billion this year as part of a national security supplemental in the nation’s submarine industrial base, the Virginia-class and Columbia-class submarine programs face significant delays and are expected to be over budget. The on-time completion of Virginia-class submarines, which are built in Virginia and Connecticut, is especially critical to the fulfillment of the Australia-United Kingdom-United States (AUKUS) trilateral partnership, through which the United States will sell at least two submarines to Australia to bolster security in the Indo-Pacific. “The United States’ submarine programs provide our nation an undersea advantage that is critical to our national security,” the members wrote. “Based on the information available so far, the Shipbuilder Accountability and Workforce Support (SAWS) agreement strikes us as a promising approach to ensure our submarine industrial base rises to the occasion, accelerates submarine production, and fully meets the critical and building demand on U.S. shipyards… We request that you give all due consideration to this initiative, while ensuring it includes the accountability and leverage measures necessary to ensure our federal investments in submarine production … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-congressional-delegation-governor-lamont-announce-fema-amends-major-disaster-declaration-for-august-storm-to-include-public-assistance-program Murphy, Congressional Delegation, Governor Lamont Announce FEMA Amends Major Disaster Declaration For August Storm To Include Public Assistance Program 2024-10-28 2024 2024-10 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 Rosa DeLauro (D-Conn.-03), Jim Himes (D-Conn.-04) and Jahana Hayes (D-Conn-05) joined Governor Ned Lamont on Monday to announce that the major disaster declaration President Joe Biden approved for Fairfield County, Litchfield County, and New Haven County as a result of the historic rainfall and extreme flooding on August 18, 2024 has been amended to include the governor’s request for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Public Assistance Program. Approval of this program means that municipal governments within those three counties, as well as Connecticut state government and certain nonprofit organizations, are now eligible to apply for federal reimbursement of 75% of the costs associated with repairing and rebuilding uninsured damage to public infrastructure caused by the storm – such as roads, bridges, rail lines, schools, parks, and other facilities – and the costs associated with their emergency response and protective measures. Previously, the declaration was approved to include the Individual Assistance Program – which makes federal disaster funding available to individuals to cover the costs of uninsured damage to private property and other related emergency actions – and the Hazard Mitigation Program, which supports state and local governments with the costs of taking actions that can reduce or eliminate long-term risk to people and property from natural disasters. The initial declaration also brought Small Business Administration loan assistance to eligible businesses and individuals. In his application to FEMA, Governor Lamont estimated that state and local governments in these counties experienced roughly $14.3 million in damage to public infrastructure from this storm, with much of the damage impacting the transportation system, such as state and local roads and bridges, as well as the Waterbury Branch Line of Metro-North Railroad’s New Haven Line. “This announcement is good news for s… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-introduces-the-safe-for-survivors-act-to-provide-economic-security-for-domestic-violence-survivors Blumenthal Introduces the SAFE for Survivors Act to Provide Economic Security for Domestic Violence Survivors 2024-10-24 2024 2024-10 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [HARTFORD, CT] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) joined Senate colleagues in introducing the Security and Financial Empowerment (SAFE) for Survivors Act to establish provisions that promote the safety and security of survivors of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, gender-based violence, and stalking. “Financial injury is common to almost every instance of domestic violence. It perpetuates physical and emotional harm by forcing survivors to stay with their abuser,” said Blumenthal on Thursday at a press conference in Hartford. “The SAFE for Survivors Act is an effort to empower survivors. ” The 2024 SAFE for Survivors Act allows victims to take time off from work without fear of penalty, requires that employers provide reasonable accommodations to assist survivors dealing with the aftermath of violence, provides access to unemployment benefits for survivors, and establishes insurance protections to support survivors–ensuring that victims are not punished for their abusers’ crimes. One in four women in the U.S. experience physical violence from an intimate partner in their lifetime and one in four women report an attempted or completed rape during their lifetime. Individuals who experience intimate partner violence, sexual assault, gender-based violence and stalking often find that abuse and threats follow them from home into the workplace. This type of violence has direct consequences for survivors’ economic security, which can affect their ability to recover, provide for their families, and remove themselves from dangerous situations. According to the Domestic Violence Hotline, domestic violence issues lead to nearly 8 million lost days of paid work each year, the equivalent of over 32,000 full-time jobs. Highlights of the 2024 SAFE Act include: Increased Access to Leave The SAFE for Survivors Act allows victims to take time off from work—40 days of leave, ten of which must be paid—without penalty in order to contend with the consequences of gender-based violence, including attendin… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-murphy-and-congressional-democrats-file-amicus-brief-urging-ninth-circuit-court-to-affirm-that-emtala-requires-hospitals-to-provide-emergency-stabilizing-care-including-abortion-care-preempts-idahos-draconian-abortion-ban Blumenthal, Murphy, & Congressional Democrats File Amicus Brief Urging Ninth Circuit Court to Affirm that EMTALA Requires Hospitals to Provide Emergency Stabilizing Care Including Abortion Care, Preempts Idaho's Draconian Abortion Ban 2024-10-24 2024 2024-10 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [HARTFORD, CT] – U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Chris Murphy (D-CT) joined 257 members of Congress in submitting an amicus brief to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit in Moyle v. United States and Idaho v. United States, two consolidated cases concerning the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA) under consideration by the en banc Ninth Circuit. EMTALA is a federal law that requires hospitals that receive Medicare funding to provide necessary “stabilizing treatment” to patients experiencing medical emergencies, which can include abortion care. After the Dobbs decision in 2022, a draconian anti-abortion law in Idaho went into effect that makes it a felony for a doctor to terminate a patient’s pregnancy unless it is “necessary” to prevent the patient’s death. The United States sued the State of Idaho, arguing that the state’s law is preempted by EMTALA in those circumstances in which abortion may not be necessary to prevent imminent death, but still constitutes the necessary stabilizing treatment for a patient’s emergency medical condition. The district court agreed; it held that in those limited, but critically important situations, EMTALA requires Medicare-participating hospitals to provide abortion as an emergency medical treatment. Idaho Republicans appealed that ruling to the Supreme Court, which lifted the injunction and took the case in January—in March, 258 Members filed an amicus brief, asking the Supreme Court to affirm the district court decision. In June, the Supreme Court dismissed the case but without a ruling on the merits, sending the case back to the Ninth Circuit Court and reinstating the district court’s injunction. In their brief in support of the Justice Department, the lawmakers ask the Ninth Circuit to uphold the district court’s ruling. They argue that the congressional intent, text, and history of EMTALA make clear that covered hospitals must provide abortion care when it is the necessary stabilizing treatment for a patient’s emergency medical conditi… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-blumenthal-colleagues-demand-stellantis-keep-its-promises-to-autoworkers Murphy, Blumenthal, Colleagues Demand Stellantis Keep Its Promises To Autoworkers 2024-10-24 2024 2024-10 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 Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP), and U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) joined U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders and 20 of their Senate colleagues in sending a letter to Stellantis—the giant automotive manufacturer responsible for common car brands like Chrysler, Dodge, and Jeep. In their letter, the senators called on Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares to honor the collective bargaining agreement signed last year with the United Auto Workers (UAW) and the promises the company made to strengthen and expand good-paying union jobs in America. “We are writing to express our growing concerns about the failure of Stellantis, under your leadership, to honor the commitments it made to the United Auto Workers (UAW) in last year’s collective bargaining agreement…” the senators wrote. “We urge Stellantis not to renege on the promises it made to American autoworkers and to provide details on the timelines for these investments.” In the contract ratified last year, Stellantis committed to make nearly $19 billion in new investments and product commitments in the U.S., including: Re-opening the plant in Belvidere, Illinois that was “indefinitely idled” last year; Establishing a parts and customer care Mega Hub in Belvidere; Continuing to manufacture the Dodge Durango in Detroit through 2025; and Manufacturing the next generation Dodge Durango in Detroit starting in 2026. Instead, Stellantis has taken actions that undermine the commitments made to the UAW and leave “behind thousands of American workers who built the company into the auto giant it is today,” the senators wrote. These actions may include moving the next generation Dodge Durango out of the U.S. and into “low-cost” countries like Mexico, as well as delaying planned investments to reopen and expand the Belvidere assembly plant. This year, Stellantis has spent over $8 billion on stock buybacks and dividends to benefit its wealthy executives and stockholders. Dur… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-blumenthal-congressional-democrats-file-amicus-brief-urging-ninth-circuit-court-to-affirm-emtala-requires-hospitals-to-provide-emergency-stabilizing-care-preempts-draconian-abortion-ban Murphy, Blumenthal, Congressional Democrats File Amicus Brief Urging Ninth Circuit Court To Affirm EMTALA Requires Hospitals To Provide Emergency Stabilizing Care, Preempts Draconian Abortion Ban 2024-10-24 2024 2024-10 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.) joined 257 Democratic members of Congress in submitting an amicus brief to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit in Moyle v. United States and Idaho v. United States, two consolidated cases concerning the Emergency Medical Treatment and Labor Act (EMTALA) under consideration by the en banc Ninth Circuit. EMTALA is a federal law that requires hospitals that receive Medicare funding to provide necessary “stabilizing treatment” to patients experiencing medical emergencies, which can include abortion care. After the Dobbs decision in 2022, a draconian anti-abortion law in Idaho went into effect that makes it a felony for a doctor to terminate a patient’s pregnancy unless it is “necessary” to prevent the patient’s death. The United States sued the State of Idaho, arguing that the state’s law is preempted by EMTALA in those circumstances in which abortion may not be necessary to prevent imminent death, but still constitutes the necessary stabilizing treatment for a patient’s emergency medical condition. The district court agreed; it held that in those limited, but critically important situations, EMTALA requires Medicare-participating hospitals to provide abortion as an emergency medical treatment. Idaho Republicans appealed that ruling to the Supreme Court, which lifted the injunction and took the case in January—in March, Murphy and Blumenthal joined 256 other members of Congress in filing an amicus brief asking the Supreme Court to affirm the district court decision. In June, the Supreme Court dismissed the case but without a ruling on the merits, sending the case back to the Ninth Circuit Court and reinstating the district court’s injunction. In their brief in support of the Justice Department, the lawmakers ask the Ninth Circuit to uphold the district court’s ruling. They argue that the congressional intent, text, and history of EMTALA make clear that covered hospitals must provide abortion care when it is the necessary st… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-to-cosponsor-legislation-to-hold-georgian-officials-accountable-for-corruption-human-rights-abuses-and-anti-democratic-efforts Murphy To Cosponsor Legislation To Hold Georgian Officials Accountable For Corruption, Human Rights Abuses, And Anti-Democratic Efforts 2024-10-23 2024 2024-10 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, on Tuesday announced his intention to join U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.) and Jim Risch (R-Id.) in introducing the Georgian People’s Act, legislation that would hold Georgian government officials and individuals responsible for corruption, human rights abuses, and efforts to advance the foreign influence law or facilitate its passage. The legislation is cosponsored by U.S. Senators Ben Cardin (D-Md.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Chris Coons (D-Del.) and Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), and U.S. Senators Thom Tillis (R-N.C.), Mitt Romney (R-Utah), Jeff Merkley (D-Ore.), John Cornyn (R-Texas), Dan Sullivan (R-Ark.), Angus King (I-Maine), Todd Young (R-Ind.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.) and George Helmy (D-N.J.) have also requested to join the Senators’ Georgian People’s Act when the Senate reconvenes in November. “Russia’s use of corruption, propaganda and violence doesn’t just threaten Georgia’s future as a strong, independent nation—it puts the entire international order at risk of collapse,” said Murphy. “As Putin and his cronies try to undermine Georgia’s democracy and impose a government that will do their bidding, this bipartisan legislation makes clear the United States stands firmly with the Georgian people who overwhelmingly support democracy and a future in Europe.” “I’m pleased that a number of my Senate colleagues recognize the urgency of the situation in Georgia and have agreed to cosponsor the Georgian People’s Act in the U.S. Senate,” said Shaheen. “Together, we’re sending a strong message that there is robust bipartisan support for our legislation and our posture towards Georgia and support for the Georgian people’s Euro-Atlantic aspirations will remain unchanged no matter which party controls Washington.” “This bill sends a strong message from Congress that the U.S. is united behind the Georgian people as they pursue a future in the transatlantic community,” said Risch. “We recognize the Georgian… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-and-warren-highlight-impact-of-private-equitys-growing-influence-in-health-care-on-vulnerable-populations Blumenthal & Warren Highlight Impact of Private Equity's Growing Influence in Health Care on Vulnerable Populations 2024-10-22 2024 2024-10 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Today, U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) called on the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to continue taking aggressive action to protect patients from the detrimental effects of private equity (PE) involvement in health care. In a letter to HHS Secretary Xavier Becerra, the Senators raised concerns about PE’s expanding ownership of health care entities, which is directly related to degrading standards of care for particularly vulnerable populations, such as wheelchair users. The Senators wrote, “PE’s involvement in health care markets has exacerbated problems related to surprise medical billing, inadequate staffing and training, and a lack of oversight and due process. We appreciate the HHS action to make PE ownership of nursing homes more transparent, but we remain concerned about PE’s pervasive and expanding influence in other health care industries.” The Senators pointed to the challenges wheelchair users face, which are emblematic of the challenges related to PE involvement in the health care industry more broadly, “Currently, wheelchair users seeking to repair their equipment face significant barriers as a result of a wheelchair supply market that is largely controlled by two PE-owned companies — National Seating and Mobility (NSM) and Numotion — which fail to provide adequate support for timely repairs.” The Senators continued, “PE companies are structurally motivated to focus time and money on selling wheelchairs at the expense of investing more resources in repairs and customer service. Companies make thousands of dollars in profit from the sale of modern wheelchairs: NSM’s annual revenue as of June 2023, for example, was close to $700 million. However, these companies lose money on repairs, just as car manufacturers routinely lose money on repairs during the warranty period — it is an inherent part of the business.” “HHS can and must do more to help combat the misalignment of PE’s short-term profit incentives with the well-being of ou… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-colleagues-release-report-on-vote-counting-process-for-november-election Murphy, Colleagues Release Report On Vote Counting Process For November Election 2024-10-22 2024 2024-10 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 Tuesday joined U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-Minn.), Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), Martin Heinrich (D-N.M.), and Tammy Duckworth (D-Il.) in releasing a report summarizing what to expect on Election Day and encouraging voters to cast their ballot. With the general election well underway in every state across the country, Senate Democrats have a clear message for the American people, which is to vote and cast their ballot as early as possible. As significant numbers of Americans choose to vote by mail, the report explains why it’s still possible that, in some states, the outcome might not be known on November 5th, in part because states differ in whether they allow mail-in ballots to be processed ahead of Election Day and whether ballots must be received by Election Day or postmarked by Election Day. The report also makes clear that voter intimidation is illegal and federal law prohibits coercing or threatening anyone in order to interfere with their right to vote. A copy of the report can be found HERE. “As Donald Trump bets on chaos, division, and lies to fuel his campaign and get back into the White House, it’s on us to see through his fearmongering and stand up for our democracy. So vote early, vote by mail, vote in person—but vote. The future of our country depends on us rejecting fear and misinformation and making our voices heard,” said Murphy. “The right to vote is fundamental to our democracy, and we must do everything we can to protect it and uphold the integrity of the election process. That means pushing back on efforts to sow chaos during election season. As this report explains, it also means making sure that Americans know that it is possible that the outcome in some states will not be known on November 5th. While some states have expedited their counting requirements since 2020, we should be prepared to be patient about results in places where counting ballots may take longer. Americans should keep making their voices heard at … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-connecticut-congressional-delegation-and-governor-lamont-announce-125-million-for-i-91-i-691-route-15-interchange-reconfiguration Murphy, Connecticut Congressional Delegation and Governor Lamont Announce $125 Million For I-91, I-691, Route 15 Interchange Reconfiguration 2024-10-21 2024 2024-10 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 John Larson (D-Conn.-01), Rosa DeLauro (D-Conn.-03), and Jahana Hayes (D-Conn-05) joined Governor Ned Lamont and Connecticut Department of Transportation Commissioner Garrett Eucalitto to announce $125 million in federal funding from the Biden-Harris Administration’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to support Phase 3 of the construction project reconfiguring the highway interchange that connects Interstate 91, Interstate 691, and Route 15 in Meriden. This interchange is one of the most congested, outdated, and crash prone highway corridors in Connecticut, and the state leaders have been unified in working to secure federal funding that will enable the state to complete a major reconfiguration of this area. CTDOT is currently constructing the second of the project’s three phases. The project’s overall goal is to reduce congestion and improve safety by eliminating dangerous weaving points, correcting roadway geometry, and adding multi-lane exits. Upon completion of Phase 3 in 2030, the project will see the replacement and rehabilitation of several bridges and the addition and extension of auxiliary lanes to reduce crashes and improve traffic flow. “Getting through the congestion on I-91, I-691, and Route 15 has become a daily headache for Connecticut drivers. This $125 million in federal dollars from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law will help realign ramps, replace aging bridges, improve drainage, and support other long-needed infrastructure upgrades that streamline the flow of traffic, create good-paying jobs, and ensure a safer, smoother commute for thousands of people,” said Murphy. “I am proud that a historic $125 million in federal funding will support the reconfiguration of one of Connecticut’s most congested interchanges. This redesign will provide relief to the countless motorists who pass through every day and provide much-needed infrastructure upgrades. I will continue fighting to deliver federal inv… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-shaheen-van-hollen-kaine-issue-statement-expressing-concern-about-escalation-of-violence-in-lebanon Murphy, Shaheen, Van Hollen, Kaine Issue Statement Expressing Concern About Escalation Of Violence In Lebanon 2024-10-21 2024 2024-10 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 U.S. Senators Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) and Tim Kaine (D-Va.), released the following joint statement regarding the deteriorating situation in Lebanon: “Over the past few weeks, there has been a concerning escalation of violence in Lebanon, which has resulted in the deaths of hundreds, the displacement of over one million civilians and unacceptable attacks on United Nations peacekeepers. “There is no question that Israel has a right to defend itself from terrorism on its northern border and that Hezbollah is a terrorist organization whose actions have led to Lebanese, American and Israeli deaths. By preventing the formation of a functioning government, Hezbollah has exacerbated an economic crisis and perpetuated the suffering of everyday Lebanese citizens. We also assert firmly that Iran must be stopped from supplying Hezbollah with resources and weapons, which is essential to securing peace on the border and ensuring that Israelis in the north can return safely to their homes. “At the same time, the Israel Defense Forces have an obligation to conduct their operations in a way that limits civilian harm and does not impede humanitarian access. We also strongly condemn the attacks against United Nations peacekeepers who operate in Lebanon under UN Security Council resolutions 1701 and 2749. Peacekeepers must be allowed to fulfill their mission of ensuring peace along the Blue Line. “We must work towards de-escalation and implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701 in Lebanon while also urging all parties involved to secure a ceasefire in Gaza and hostage release deal. We must do all we can to prevent further civilian casualties, dangerous destabilization and expansion of this conflict into a full-out war.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-young-urge-president-biden-to-protect-undersea-cables-from-china-russia Murphy, Young Urge President Biden To Protect Undersea Cables From China, Russia 2024-10-21 2024 2024-10 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 Todd Young (R-Ind.), members of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, on Monday led 6 of their Senate colleagues in sending a bipartisan letter to President Biden expressing concerns about the security of the global network of undersea communications and energy cables upon which American workers and businesses rely. More than 95% of international internet traffic travels via these undersea cables, resulting in trillions of dollars in financial transactions each day. The locations of these cables are often openly published to prevent accidental damage. As American companies look to expand and invest in this critical infrastructure, it is imperative that the United States has a complete understanding of existing vulnerabilities, especially those that impact our economic and national security. “America’s adversaries have been developing their capabilities to attack or disrupt critical undersea infrastructure. There is a long tradition, dating back well over a century, of belligerents attacking their opponents’ underwater communications lines in the first phase of a conflict,” the senators wrote. “Given these threats and challenges, it is imperative that the United States undertake a review of existing vulnerabilities to global undersea cable infrastructure, including the threat of sabotage by Russia as well as the growing role of the People’s Republic of China in cable laying and repair. If we are truly to deepen vital commercial and security relationships with willing partners and allies, this must be a national priority.” U.S. Senators Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), Tim Kaine (D-Va.), Pete Ricketts (R-Neb.), Jeanne Shaheen (D-N.H.), Dan Sullivan (R-Alaska), and Brian Schatz (D-Hawaii) also signed the letter. Full text of the letter is available HERE and below: Dear Mr. President: We write to you to express our concern about the security of global undersea communications and energy cables, especially those that impact America’s economic and national security … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/senate-permanent-subcommittee-on-investigations-releases-majority-staff-report-exposing-medicare-advantage-insurers-refusal-of-care-for-vulnerable-seniors Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations Releases Majority Staff Report Exposing Medicare Advantage Insurers' Refusal of Care for Vulnerable Seniors 2024-10-17 2024 2024-10 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [WASHINGTON, DC] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Chair of the U.S. Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations (PSI), released a Majority staff report today detailing the Subcommittee’s findings thus far in its investigation into the barriers facing seniors enrolled in Medicare Advantage in accessing care. PSI’s Majority staff report reveals how the nation’s three largest Medicare Advantage insurers—UnitedHealthcare, Humana, and CVS—use prior authorization to target stays in skilled nursing facilities, inpatient rehabilitation facilities, and long-term acute care hospitals in order to boost their profits. “Insurance companies say that prior authorization is meant to prevent unnecessary medical services. But the Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations has obtained new data and internal documents from the largest Medicare Advantage insurers that discredit these contentions,” said Blumenthal. “In fact, despite alarm and criticism in recent years about abuses and excesses, insurers have continued to deny care to vulnerable seniors—simply to make more money. Our Subcommittee even found evidence of insurers expanding this practice in recent years.” On May 17, 2023, PSI launched its investigation by seeking documents and information from three insurers who together cover nearly 60 percent of all Medicare Advantage enrollees. Today’s report presents new findings based on the more than 280,000 pages of documents obtained from these three companies to date. Through its inquiry, PSI found that between 2019 and 2022, UnitedHealthcare, Humana, and CVS each denied prior authorization requests for post-acute care at far higher rates than they did for other types of care, resulting in diminished access to post-acute care for Medicare Advantage beneficiaries. A summary of PSI’s key findings is below. UnitedHealthcare’s Prior Authorization Denial Rate for Post-Acute Care Surged as the Insurer Increasingly Implemented Automated Prior Authorization Processes According to documents obtained from PSI’s investigatio… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-statement-on-death-of-yahya-sinwar Murphy Statement On Death Of Yahya Sinwar 2024-10-17 2024 2024-10 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 Thursday released the following statement on the death of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar. “Yahya Sinwar was a brutal U.S.-designated terrorist and the mastermind of the October 7th terror attacks. His death provides an important measure of justice for the 1,200 innocent Israelis murdered that day, their families, and the more than 100 hostages still being held in Gaza. With Sinwar’s death, Hamas’s military command structure has been decimated and the group no longer has the capability to stage another attack like October 7th. It is time to redouble efforts to secure an agreement to end this war and bring home all of the hostages.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/boars-head-linked-listeria-outbreak-blumenthal-announces-federal-investigation-into-usda-response Boar's Head-Linked Listeria Outbreak: Blumenthal Announces Federal Investigation into USDA Response 2024-10-15 2024 2024-10 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) released the below statement today on U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Inspector General (IG) Phyllis Fong opening an investigation into the agency’s handling of repeated sanitary violations found at the Virginia Boar’s Head plant linked to a deadly nationwide Listeria outbreak. “I welcome the Inspector General heeding my call for investigation of USDA’s abject failure to protect consumers against fatally contaminated Boar’s Head products,” said Blumenthal. “USDA took virtually no action—allowing Boar’s Head to continue business as usual at its chronically unsanitary Virginia plant—despite finding repeated serious violations. The Virginia plant should have been shut down years ago before people got sick or died from Listeria. The IG investigation is a vital first step to assure accountability and prevent such deadly mistakes from happening again.” "When we discovered the failures within the Food and Drug Administration's response to credible reports of contaiminated infant formula leading to the 2022 crisis, I swiftly requested an OIG investigation to understand where the FDA fell short," said Congresswoman DeLauro. "Thanks to that investigation, we have a much clearer account of FDA's missteps. This will help us prevent similar issues in the future. In the same vein, I applaud USDA OIG Fong for opening an investigation to understand how the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) failed to act on repeated reports of 'noncompliance' with federal rules and poor facility conditions at Boar's Head, ultimately leading to a recall of Listeria-contaminated products in which ten lives were lost. To prevent future food safety crises, we must get to the bottom of what went wrong." On September 5, 2024, Blumenthal wrote to IG Fong urging an investigation into USDA’s handling of previous safety violations at the Boar’s Head plant in Jarratt, Virginia, following reports that the plant was permitted to continue operating even after government inspectors foun… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-statement-on-deteriorating-humanitarian-situation-in-gaza Murphy Statement On Deteriorating Humanitarian Situation In Gaza 2024-10-15 2024 2024-10 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 Tuesday released a statement following reports that no food aid has entered northern Gaza in more than two weeks, putting one million displaced Palestinians at risk of starvation. On Sunday, the Biden Administration sent a letter to senior Israeli officials warning that if conditions in Gaza do not improve within 30 days, the U.S. may consider restricting military assistance to Israel. “I am deeply disturbed by the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, and it is vital for Israel to take immediate steps to improve these nightmarish conditions. Despite some improvements by Israeli authorities earlier this year, the amount of humanitarian aid reaching desperate Palestinians has fallen to new lows at a time when needs are higher than ever. After more than a year of conflict, the actions required to surge humanitarian aid into Gaza are both known and achievable – as demonstrated by the recent successful campaign to vaccinate more than half a million Palestinian children against polio. The way Israel conducts this war matters, and the Israeli government has to do more to guarantee the safety of humanitarian aid workers and ensure sufficient aid is reaching Palestinians across all parts of Gaza. Israel, along with every other recipient of U.S. military aid, is required to abide by international humanitarian law for that assistance to continue. The Biden-Harris Administration took the right step this week by laying out clear changes that Israel must make in the next 30 days to stay in compliance with U.S. law.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-and-blackburn-demand-tiktok-documents Blumenthal & Blackburn Demand TikTok Documents 2024-10-11 2024 2024-10 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Today, U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), authors of the bipartisan Kids Online Safety Act, wrote TikTok CEO Shou Chew requesting “documents, communications, and research held by TikTok regarding the safety of minors on its platform.” The request follows reports of a court filing from the Kentucky Attorney General’s Office revealing TikTok executives’ awareness of the platform’s harm to young people and subsequent disregard of the mental and physical dangers the platform poses to children and teens. The Senators wrote, “TikTok has knowingly designed their products in a manner that can cause substantial harm to kids—including fostering destructive addiction and amplifying child sexual exploitation. Rather than address these risks, TikTok instead seemingly misled the public about the safety of its platform.” The Senators continued, “These new disclosures highlight the pervasive and alarming failures of TikTok and other online platforms to protect kids and the pressing need for federal rules to require accountability, safeguards, and transparency, such as those required in the Senate-passed Kids Online Safety Act.” In today’s letters, the Senators requested that TikTok provide documents and information previously produced to the Kentucky Attorney General’s Office and other states Attorneys General. The full text of the letter can be found here and below. October 11, 2024 Mr. Shou Zi Chew Chief Executive Officer TikTok Inc. 5800 Bristol Parkway Culver City, California 90230 Dear Mr. Chew: We write in response to shocking revelations of TikTok’s awareness of, and indifference to, its platform’s substantial harm to children and teens, and to demand documents, communications, and research held by TikTok regarding the safety of minors on its platform. According to information contained in a court filing from the Kentucky Attorney General’s Office, TikTok has knowingly designed their products in a manner that can cause substantial harm to kids – including … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-highlights-stamfords-kibu-as-innovator-of-the-month Murphy Highlights Stamford's Kibu As "Innovator Of The Month" 2024-10-11 2024 2024-10 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 on Tuesday that Kibu, a disability provider platform based in Stamford, was named “Innovator of the Month.” Kibu provides high-impact online content to support and empower people with disabilities, including classes in fitness, life skills, community engagement and professional development. The company also connects disability providers with tools for data management, note taking, and attendance. “Our communities are strongest when every person has the resources to achieve their full potential. Kibu’s online platform is transforming lives by breaking down barriers for people with disabilities, helping people become more independent, and giving service providers the tools they need to make a real impact. I’m proud to recognize Kibu’s important contributions to fostering a more inclusive future for our state, and I look forward to seeing all that they accomplish,” said Murphy. “Kibu is built on the belief that innovation starts with understanding the unique challenges that people with intellectual and developmental disabilities face every day. By providing tools that empower both individuals and organizations, we’re helping to create a future where technology closes gaps, rather than creating them. It’s exciting to be innovating right here in Connecticut, where the community and ecosystem truly support the growth of businesses that make an impact,” said Daniel Caridi, CEO of Kibu. Daniel Caridi began volunteering for this community shortly after graduating college in 2019, formally launching the Kibu platform in 2022. Today, Kibu works with disability providers across 26 states. 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 and the Helping Angels Lead Our Startups (HALOS) Act. Startup companies create an average of 2 million jobs each year. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-murphy-courtney-himes-and-hayes-announce-over-16-million-for-lead-free-homes Blumenthal, Murphy, Courtney, Himes, & Hayes Announce Over $16 Million for Lead-Free Homes 2024-10-09 2024 2024-10 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [HARTFORD, CT] – Today, U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Chris Murphy (D-CT) and U.S. Representatives Joe Courtney (CT-02), Jim Himes (CT-04), and Jahana Hayes (CT-05) announced over $16 million in funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to protect children under the age of six years old from lead poisoning. The funds are awarded through HUD’s Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Grant Program. “Over $16 million will protect families across Connecticut from exposure to the pernicious poison that is lead in their homes. Lead poisoning causes detrimental and irreversible damage, especially to children. Currently, more than 1,000 Connecticut children are affected by lead each year and I am proud that federal funding will work to address this dire crisis,” said Blumenthal. “Investing in lead paint removal will protect our communities from the lifelong, devastating effects of lead poisoning. This $16 million in funding will help mitigate lead-based paint hazards in older homes, maintain affordable housing, and provide resources to ensure families in Bridgeport, Norwich, and Waterbury can address other health and safety concerns. There is no safe level of lead exposure, and I will keep fighting to ensure everyone in our state has a safe and healthy place to call home,” said Murphy. “My office and I were pleased to lead the federal effort to advocate on the City of Norwich’s behalf and bring the federal funding home to ensure less children are exposed to the serious dangers of lead paint. The federal funding award is a clear testament to the outstanding work executed by the City, Wayne Sharkey, and his team, and the hours and hours they spent on this application to continue their live-saving work,” said Courtney. “Many New England homes and apartments were constructed well before we knew how dangerous lead paint exposure can be, especially for young children. The over $6 million in federal funding Bridgeport will receive will allow the city to expand its remediation efforts an… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-blumenthal-courtney-himes-hayes-announce-over-16-million-for-lead-free-homes Murphy, Blumenthal, Courtney, Himes, Hayes Announce Over $16 Million For Lead-Free Homes 2024-10-09 2024 2024-10 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), Jim Himes (D-Conn.-04), and Jahana Hayes (D-Conn.-05) on Wednesday announced over $16 million in funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to protect children under the age of six years old from lead poisoning. The funds are awarded through HUD’s Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Grant Program. “Investing in lead paint removal will protect our communities from the lifelong, devastating effects of lead poisoning. This $16 million in funding will help mitigate lead-based paint hazards in older homes, maintain affordable housing, and provide resources to ensure families in Bridgeport, Norwich, and Waterbury can address other health and safety concerns. There is no safe level of lead exposure, and I will keep fighting to ensure everyone in our state has a safe and healthy place to call home,” said Murphy. “Over $16 million will protect families across Connecticut from exposure to the pernicious poison that is lead in their homes. Lead poisoning causes detrimental and irreversible damage, especially to children. Currently, more than 1,000 Connecticut children are affected by lead each year and I am proud that federal funding will work to address this dire crisis,” said Blumenthal. “My office and I were pleased to lead the federal effort to advocate on the City of Norwich’s behalf and bring the federal funding home to ensure less children are exposed to the serious dangers of lead paint. The federal funding award is a clear testament to the outstanding work executed by the City, Wayne Sharkey, and his team, and the hours and hours they spent on this application to continue their live-saving work,” said Courtney. “Many New England homes and apartments were constructed well before we knew how dangerous lead paint exposure can be, especially for young children. The over $6 million in federal funding Bridgeport will receive will allow the city to expand its rem… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-seeks-dot-guidance-to-improve-roadway-safety-and-address-traffic-fatalities-in-letter-to-secretary-buttigieg Murphy Seeks DOT Guidance To Improve Roadway Safety And Address Traffic Fatalities In Letter To Secretary Buttigieg 2024-10-09 2024 2024-10 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.) on Wednesday sent a letter to U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg asking for details on the Department of Transportation’s (DOT) efforts to improve roadway safety. Murphy referenced the recent tragic deaths of Connecticut Trooper First Class Aaron Pelletier and ConnDOT worker Andrew DiDomenico, as well as his own Walk Across Connecticut, where he saw dangerous driving conditions firsthand. Expressing concern over rising traffic fatalities in Connecticut, Murphy requested additional information on specific measures being implemented, strategies to address dangerous driving behaviors, and how federal and state governments can collaborate to enhance roadway safety. "There have been 245 traffic fatalities in Connecticut so far this year, including a law enforcement officer and a state employee," Murphy wrote. "In May, Connecticut Trooper First Class Aaron Pelletier was struck and killed in the line of duty while working at a traffic stop on Interstate 84. In July, a Connecticut Department of Transportation worker, Andrew DiDomenico, died after being struck by a vehicle on Interstate 91. While these two accidents garnered significant attention across the state, there are many more families dealing with the pain of losing a loved one in a traffic accident." Murphy continued: “My office and I regularly hear from constituents about roadway safety. The primary issues identified are drivers traveling at high speed, ignoring traffic signs, and driving while distracted. During my annual walk across Connecticut, I spoke with a group of road construction workers who told me that they are noticing an uptick in dangerous driving behavior. I also regularly meet with a group of middle school children who advise me on a range of policy issues, and in our conversations these students regularly who tell me how reckless driving can make their walk to school scary and more dangerous. While I understand there is no perfect policy solution or initiative that will eliminate traffi… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-graham-celebrate-tenth-annual-national-hydrogen-and-fuel-cell-day Blumenthal, Graham Celebrate Tenth Annual National Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Day 2024-10-08 2024 2024-10 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [WASHINGTON, DC] – U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Co-Chairs of the Senate Hydrogen Fuel Cell Caucus, released the following statements in celebration of National Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Day as designated by a resolution passed by the Senate last month. “This day recognizes the immense economic and environmental benefits the hydrogen and fuel cell industry generates for our nation,” said Senator Blumenthal. “Cutting-edge fuel cell and hydrogen technologies bolster our energy efficiency, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, boost job creation, and strengthen our power grid. I’m proud to join my colleagues in marking National Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Day and celebrating the remarkable innovation and progress made in this industry.” “I’m proud to lead my colleagues in commemorating National Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Day,” said Senator Graham. “Hydrogen and fuel cell technologies are boosting manufacturing and economic growth in South Carolina and across the country.” “As we celebrate the tenth iteration of National Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Day, I can’t help but to marvel at the growth of the industry over this last decade,” said Frank Wolak, President and CEO of the Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Energy Association (FCHEA). “From increased R&D funding across federal and state agencies to large scale demonstration projects like the Regional Clean Hydrogen Hubs, hydrogen is firmly established not only as an indispensable tool in our clean energy toolbox, but also as a key driver of economic growth. FCHEA and our diverse and committed member companies look forward to continuing this momentum into the next ten years.” Fuel cells utilize hydrogen and hydrogen-rich fuels without combustion to generate electricity in a way that is clean, efficient, and quiet. For decades, the United States has been a leader in the development of hydrogen and fuel cell technologies, which were instrumental in the development of a manned space program, allowing long-term spaceflight which culminated with America putting a … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-and-graham-travel-to-israel Blumenthal & Graham Travel to Israel 2024-10-07 2024 2024-10 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [JERUSALEM, ISRAEL] – One year since Hamas attacked southern Israel on October 7, 2023, killing hundreds and taking more hostage, U.S. Senators Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and Lindsey Graham (R-SC) traveled to Israel to meet with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and senior government and military leadership. “Today in Israel, the pain and grief are deep and moving. A strong, thriving Israel is essential to America’s own national security,” Blumenthal said. “We reiterated our commitment to bring home all the hostages – including those brutally murdered. I hope that diplomacy may achieve a cessation of fighting, leading to the return of the hostages, and a path toward normalizing relations in the region, along with humanitarian aid and rebuilding.” “I’m in Israel today on this first solemn anniversary of Hamas’ horrific attack on Israel with my good friend, Senator Blumenthal. October 7, 2023 is the day that will live in infamy among the Israeli people. We are here together to share their pain and to try to find a way forward for the region,” said Graham. “This is one of the most important trips I’ve ever taken, and it is my hope that Hamas’ barbaric October 7 attack will not stop the march toward peace.” Additional details regarding the trip will be available in the coming days. -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-statement-on-anniversary-of-october-7th-attacks Murphy Statement On Anniversary Of October 7th Attacks 2024-10-07 2024 2024-10 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 released the following statement on the one-year anniversary of Hamas’ terrorist attack on Israel. “One year ago today, on the 50th anniversary of the Yom Kippur War, Hamas terrorists launched a brutal attack on Israel, mercilessly killing 1,195 people and taking 251 others hostage. What happened on October 7th was unconscionable, and Hamas must be held accountable. My heart remains with those grieving the loss of their family members and friends, and those still waiting for their loved ones’ return, as well as every member of the Jewish community, which has faced a disgusting rise in antisemitism over the past year. The United States will always stand with the people of Israel against any and all threats. The path to long-term security for the Israeli people remains a diplomatic solution that ensures the safe return of the hostages, an end to this war, and a two-state future.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-statement-on-results-of-tunisian-presidential-election Murphy Statement On Results Of Tunisian Presidential Election 2024-10-07 2024 2024-10 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 Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on Near East, South Asia, Central Asia and Counterterrorism, on Monday released the following statement on the results of the presidential election in Tunisia. “For years, President Saied has systematically dismantled Tunisia’s democracy by gutting independent checks and balances and rigging the rules to prevent any real competition. The outcome of this election was determined a long time ago and marks the completion of his plan to restore dictatorship to Tunisia. Today’s “victory” – with a dismal 29% voter turnout - shows just how disenchanted the Tunisian people are with Saied’s rule and his unwillingness to meaningfully address the country’s spiraling economy. The United States should continue its support of the Tunisian people, civil society, and independent media in hopes for a brighter future.” In June, Murphy chaired a hearing on President Biden’s FY25 funding request for the Middle East and North Africa, where he raised questions on U.S. policy towards Tunisia and urged support for civil society groups. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-statement-on-approval-of-major-disaster-declaration-for-counties-impacted-by-last-months-flooding Murphy Statement On Approval Of Major Disaster Declaration For Counties Impacted By Last Month's Flooding 2024-10-03 2024 2024-10 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.) on Friday released the following statement on President Biden’s approval of a major disaster declaration due to last month’s flooding in western Connecticut. “Last month’s flooding was catastrophic for so many towns, families, and local businesses, and it will require the might of the federal government to begin to recover and rebuild. I spoke with FEMA Administrator Criswell about the magnitude of devastation and dire challenges Connecticut would face without federal assistance, and my staff and I have stayed in contact with FEMA and the White House to make sure those who suffered losses get the support they need. I’m grateful to the Biden administration for approving a partial major disaster declaration that will begin to unlock millions of dollars for FEMA Individual Assistance Program (IA) applicants in Fairfield, Litchfield, and New Haven Counties. My office will continue to closely monitor the Governor’s request for Public Assistance (PA) federal funding and work to ensure that the FEMA IA funding is released as quickly as possible." Murphy, along with the rest of the congressional delegation, sent a letter urging President Biden to approve this declaration. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-statement-on-nlrbs-complaint-calling-out-amazon-for-illegally-refusing-to-bargain-with-workers Murphy Statement On NLRB's Complaint Calling Out Amazon For Illegally Refusing To Bargain With Workers 2024-10-03 2024 2024-10 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 Thursday released a statement on the National Labor Relations Board’s (NLRB) complaint against Amazon accusing the company of illegally refusing to negotiate with Teamsters representing delivery drivers employed by one of its Delivery Service Partners (DSP). In its complaint, the NLRB claims Amazon violated its responsibility as a joint employer of its delivery drivers by taking retaliatory and threatening action against employees and terminating its contract with the DSP after the drivers unionized. "Amazon has made billions on the backs of the hard-working drivers who deliver their packages, but when those drivers tried to organize for better wages and working conditions, the company refused to negotiate and eventually fired them. For years, Amazon has hidden behind this absurd claim that drivers delivering Amazon packages in Amazon-branded vans—even wearing Amazon-branded vests— aren’t Amazon employees in order to avoid being held responsible for their safety and well-being. The NLRB has already determined that Amazon is a joint-employer of these drivers, and this complaint is a really important step in holding Amazon and other greedy corporations accountable and protecting workers’ right to negotiate for the fair pay, safe conditions, and dignified employment they deserve,” said Murphy. In August, Murphy released a statement applauding the NLRB’s finding that Amazon is a joint employer of its delivery drivers. In January, Murphy led a bipartisan letter to Amazon CEO Andy Jassy demanding information about the Delivery Service Partner (DSP) program, including Amazon’s justification for refusing to bargain with union representatives of DSP employees and requiring DSPs to sign non-poaching agreements. After receiving a response from Amazon that was unresponsive to the questions asked, at odds with publicly available data and reporting, and apparently self-contradictory, Murphy led 33 o… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-hyde-smith-murray-urge-swift-ice-pact-implementation-to-boost-us-shipbuilding-and-bolster-security-in-polar-regions Murphy, Hyde-Smith, Murray Urge Swift ICE Pact Implementation To Boost U.S. Shipbuilding And Bolster Security In Polar Regions 2024-10-02 2024 2024-10 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, Chairman of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security, on Wednesday joined U.S. Senators Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.) and Patty Murray (D-Wash.) in sending a bipartisan letter to President Biden expressing support for robust, thoughtful, and timely implementation of the recently announced Icebreaker Collaboration Effort, or ICE Pact—a trilateral partnership with Finland and Canada to work together on the production of polar icebreakers and other capabilities. In their letter, the senators underscored the strategic importance of deepening cooperation with America’s allies, strengthening the domestic shipbuilding industry, and addressing mounting Russian and Chinese activity in the Arctic and Antarctic regions. The senators welcomed initial steps taken by the Biden-Harris Administration and NATO to take on these challenges and urged collaboration with Congress to ensure the entire federal government is coordinating to maximize the success of ICE Pact. The senators pointed to the threat posed by Russia and China’s growing presence in the region: “In response to the changing physical environment and growing international pressure following its invasion of Ukraine, Russia has significantly built up its military footprint in the Arctic and re-opened several Soviet-era military bases. China, often in close coordination with Russia, has made critical investments to enable exploitation of natural resources above the Arctic Circle. In 2018, China put forth its own ambitious Arctic Policy and subsequently referenced the Arctic in its Five-Year Plan released in 2021 for the first time. Chinese fishing fleets have also repeatedly engaged in illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing off the coast of Alaska, which must be deterred to preserve local ecosystems critical to domestic communities.” The senators emphasized the importance of working with allies and partners to build domestic shipbuilding capacity and ensure regional stability: “In this moment of geo… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-op-ed-for-foreign-policy-kenyas-anti-corruption-protests-are-a-wake-up-call-for-washington Murphy Op-Ed For Foreign Policy: Kenya's Anti-Corruption Protests Are A Wake-Up Call For Washington 2024-10-02 2024 2024-10 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 Tuesday authored an op-ed for Foreign Policy arguing that countering Russian and Chinese influence in countries like Kenya will require the U.S. to dedicate more resources to fighting corruption and promoting good governance. Murphy made the case that the U.S. risks undermining the effectiveness of other forms of assistance, including humanitarian aid, investments in economic development, and security assistance, if we fail to support the people and institutions dedicated to ensuring their government is accountable to its people. As a member of the Foreign Relations Committee, Murphy traveled to Kenya in August to engage with key stakeholders on issues related to the U.S.’ relationships on the African continent, including deepening economic partnerships, U.S. support for humanitarian aid, and the Kenyan-led Multilateral Security Support mission in Haiti. “I traveled to Kenya amid the demonstrations this summer with CARE, an international humanitarian agency that delivers emergency relief and executes long-term international development projects,” Murphy wrote. “We felt Kenyans’ frustration everywhere we traveled. Nearly every conversation found its way back to the issue of governance. This sentiment was especially noticeable among young people. According to the Ichikowitz Family Foundation’s 2024 African Youth Survey, nearly 60 percent of young Africans want to leave their home countries, one of the main reasons being corruption. Even in Kenya—which has a good democratic tradition, political stability, and impressive economic growth—people we spoke to described how too many of the country’s resources are lost, stolen, or wasted by corrupt or incompetent government officials.” Murphy outlined how U.S. adversaries have exploited the corruption and poor governance in Kenya, leaving the country with failed foreign-funded projects and crippling debt: “Over the last 15 years, leaders in Kenya have financed major infrastructure projects by taking out loans from Chinese… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-statement-on-escalating-hostilities-in-the-middle-east Murphy Statement On Escalating Hostilities In The Middle East 2024-10-01 2024 2024-10 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 Tuesday released the following statement on the escalation in hostilities across the Middle East. “I am deeply concerned about the rapid escalation in hostilities across the Middle East. Iran’s reprehensible missile barrage against Israel today was a further act of terror that put millions of innocent lives in danger. Israel has the right to defend itself and protect Israeli civilians from incoming attacks from both Iran and Hezbollah. “The way in which Israel conducts counterterrorism operations inside Lebanon matters. An expansive air and ground war risks repeating the mistakes of the past and causing further civilian destruction in Lebanon without achieving a sustainable resolution to Israel’s legitimate security concerns. The best way to protect Israel’s security in the long-term and prevent all-out war in the region is by prioritizing the safety of Lebanese civilians and reaching a lasting diplomatic solution that allows civilian populations on both sides to safely return home.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T21:57:20Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-introduces-legislation-to-provide-legal-protections-for-amtrak-passengers Blumenthal Introduces Legislation to Provide Legal Protections for Amtrak Passengers 2024-09-30 2024 2024-09 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) introduced the Ending Passenger Rail Forced Arbitration Act, legislation to restore legal rights and protections to Amtrak riders who are currently prevented from seeking justice in courts. In 2019, Amtrak quietly implemented a broad arbitration agreement and class action waiver policy that captures personal injury claims, including gross negligence and wrongful death, and claims of discrimination. Under this policy, customers waive their right to sue Amtrak in a U.S. court for any reason with the purchase of an Amtrak ticket. The Ending Passenger Rail Forced Arbitration Act prohibits Amtrak from continuing to impose its forced arbitration and class action waiver policy in its passenger contracts, providing passengers and survivors of negligence or misconduct a pathway to seek justice. “This bill will restore vital legal rights to Amtrak travelers,” said Blumenthal. “Forced arbitration is an unjust and un-American practice, stripping Amtrak travelers of the basic right of access to justice. By simply checking a box, customers are forced to sign away their legal rights with the purchase of an Amtrak ticket. With this essential legislation, we ensure that all Amtrak travelers are able to seek just redress and legal accountability from Amtrak, derailing the exploitative and unfair practices of the corporation.” The Ending Passenger Rail Forced Arbitration Act is co-sponsored by U.S. Senators Cory Booker (D-NJ), Bob Casey (D-PA), John Fetterman (D-PA), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Edward Markey (D-MA), Jeff Merkley (D-OR), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Chris Van Hollen (D-MD), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Ron Wyden (D-OR). The bill is endorsed by the American Association for Justice (AAJ), Public Citizen, National Disability Rights Network (NDRN), and Rail Passengers Association. "Millions of Americans rely on Amtrak, and their rights must be protected if something goes wrong," said American Association for Justice (AAJ) President Lori Andru… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T21:43:57Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-blumenthal-colleagues-urge-departments-of-justice-state-homeland-security-and-commerce-to-stop-arms-trafficking-to-haiti Murphy, Blumenthal, Colleagues Urge Departments Of Justice, State, Homeland Security, And Commerce To Stop Arms Trafficking To Haiti 2024-09-30 2024 2024-09 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 Appropriations Subcommittee on Homeland Security and a member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Foreign Relations, and U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) joined 61 other members of Congress in sending a letter to the Departments of State (State), Homeland Security (DHS), Commerce (Commerce), and Justice (DOJ), urging them to strengthen steps to prevent the flow of illegal firearms from the United States into Haiti. Since the assassination of Haitian President Jovenel Moïse in 2021, armed gangs have consolidated power in Haiti fueled in-part by an influx of guns trafficked into Haiti. Though the country itself does not manufacture guns, there are an estimated 500,000 firearms in the country, and the United States is the number one source of these guns, often making their way through Florida. As a result, gangs have outgunned and overpowered the Haitian National Police and other security forces, leading to the displacement of over 300,000 Haitians and created a widespread humanitarian crisis. “The escalation of firepower contributes to gangs’ capacity to terrorize civilians (including through systematic sexual violence), contributes to internal displacement, and directly impedes efforts by security forces working to regain control of the country,” the members wrote. The lawmakers are pushing five recommendations to strengthen the administration’s current efforts, including increased staffing and stricter screening of packages going to Haiti and other parts of the Caribbean. The lawmakers also recommend the DOJ’s Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) implement a strategy to increase the number of firearms recovered in Haiti that are submitted for tracing in order to identify gun traffickers and dealers who sell to them. The lawmakers are also calling for an expansion of the “Demand Letter 3” program, which requires federal firearms licensees in certain states to notify ATF if they sell someone multiple semi-aut… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T21:43:57Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-travels-with-presidential-delegation-to-inauguration-of-new-president-of-mexico Murphy Travels With Presidential Delegation To Inauguration Of New President Of Mexico 2024-09-30 2024 2024-09 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, a member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee and Chairman of the U.S. Senate Homeland Security Appropriations Subcommittee, on Monday joined the U.S. Presidential Delegation to travel to Mexico City for the Inauguration of Claudia Sheinbaum, President-Elect of Mexico. “I’m proud to join First Lady Jill Biden on the Presidential Delegation attending the historic inauguration of Claudia Sheinbaum. The U.S. and Mexico share deep cultural and economic ties, and the strength of the U.S.-Mexico partnership directly impacts our ability to stop the flow of fentanyl into our country, combat gun trafficking, and humanely manage migration to our southern border. I look forward to working with President-elect Sheinbaum to advance our shared interests, deepen our economic cooperation, and reinforce our commitment to regional security.” ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T21:43:57Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-blumenthal-colleagues-introduce-bill-to-protect-voters-and-election-workers Murphy, Blumenthal, Colleagues Introduce Bill To Protect Voters And Election Workers 2024-09-27 2024 2024-09 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 Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) joined U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) and 7 other Members of Congress on Wednesday in introducing bicameral legislation to protect voters and election workers from intimidation and threats of violence at polling locations. The Freedom from Intimidation in Elections Act would help ensure every voter and election worker has the right to cast their ballot and conduct their official duties free from fear and intimidation. The bill would update existing anti-intimidation provisions of the Voting Rights Act of 1965 to limit the presence of visible firearms at locations where voters cast their ballot or election workers perform their official duties, empowering poll workers and election officials to continue safely administering elections. The right to vote is a central pillar of American democracy, but rising political violence against voters and poll workers threatens election security. False allegations of widespread voter fraud have further increased tensions at election centers. 38 percent of election workers have reported experiencing threats, harassment, or abuse as of May 2024. “The presence of firearms at polling places isn’t just dangerous—it’s a direct threat to our democratic process. As armed extremists fueled by rumors and conspiracy theories increasingly show up at the polls to bully voters and election workers, our message is clear: intimidation has no place at the ballot box. This legislation would take important steps to ensure every American feels safe to make their voice heard on election day,” said Murphy. “We must stop voter suppression and intimidation – threatening free, fair elections, which are the lifeblood of our democracy. Protecting election workers as well as voters from intimidation with firearms at the polls is basic democratic common sense. The growing dangers of political violence and extremist threats make this legislation all the more important,” said Blumenthal. “In no corner of America shoul… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T21:43:57Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-hayes-31-colleagues-introduce-bicameral-student-food-security-act-to-address-food-insecurity-among-college-students Murphy, Hayes, 31 Colleagues Introduce Bicameral Student Food Security Act To Address Food Insecurity Among College Students 2024-09-27 2024 2024-09 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.), a member of the U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee, and U.S. Congresswoman Jahana Hayes (D-Conn.-05) joined 31 other members of Congress in reintroducing the Student Food Security Act of 2024, bicameral legislation to address food insecurity faced by college students across America. College students often face strict limits on their ability to access and use Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits unless they meet certain conditions, such as working more than 20 hours per week or having young children. These barriers ignore the reality of the college student population, a majority of whom are students older than 25 and independent from their parents who are often juggling school, work, and family responsibilities. The Student Food Security Act of 2024 would support students facing food insecurity by expanding eligibility for SNAP, allowing students to use SNAP benefits at on-campus dining facilities, increasing outreach by federal and state agencies to food-insecure students, and establishing an annual grant program to aid colleges and universities in better identifying and serving students with food and housing needs. According to a recent survey, nearly 40% of community college students are food insecure, over half are housing insecure, and 18% have experienced homelessness. These factors negatively impact student success and graduation rates. A 2024 Government Accountability Office (GAO) report further revealed that nearly 3.8 million college students may face food insecurity, risking their college completion and undermining federal and state investments in higher education. The GAO report found that almost 60% of potentially eligible students were not enrolled in SNAP, highlighting how current eligibility requirements are leaving food-insecure students behind. “Students aren’t learning when they’re missing meals or living without stable housing,” said Murphy. “Too often, college students, many of whom are also work… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T21:43:57Z
https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press/release/blumenthal-and-delauro-refer-boars-head-to-doj-for-responsibility-in-listeria-outbreak-call-on-usda-to-bolster-oversight Blumenthal & DeLauro Refer Boar's Head to DOJ For Responsibility in Listeria Outbreak, Call on USDA to Bolster Oversight 2024-09-26 2024 2024-09 Democrat Senate CT Richard Blumenthal B001277 www.blumenthal.senate.gov blumenthal https://www.blumenthal.senate.gov/newsroom/press scraper [WASHINGTON, DC] – U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) and U.S. Representative Rosa DeLauro (D-CT-03) today called on the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) to hold Boar’s Head Provisions Company, Inc. (Boar’s Head) accountable for the Listeria outbreak linked to liverwurst deli meat produced at their Jarratt, Virginia plant. In a letter to USDA Secretary Thomas Vilsack and Attorney General Merrick Garland, Blumenthal urged USDA to work closely with the DOJ to determine whether to bring criminal charges against Boar’s Head for their responsibility in the outbreak, which has caused 10 deaths and dozens of hospitalizations across the country. Blumenthal and DeLauro also urged USDA to strengthen its Listeria prevention protocols and investigate other Boar’s Head locations for safety violations. “The time for action is long overdue, and we urge your agencies to work together to seek immediate justice for impacted consumers and to prevent this from happening again,” wrote Blumenthal and DeLauro. “Moving forward, it is critical that the agency take this matter seriously and take the necessary steps to address the concerns raised by this outbreak. That is why we urge USDA to work closely with the DOJ to determine whether to bring criminal charges against Boar’s Head for their responsibility in this crisis,” Blumenthal and DeLauro continued. Blumenthal and DeLauro also called on USDA to enhance its oversight of our food supply, “We also urge the agency to initiate reforms to prevent similar situations from recurring at other facilities. In particular, the agency should revisit its regulations requiring establishments to test for Listeria in the processing environment and consider ways to strengthen those requirements, including revisiting the agency’s 2000 proposed rule requiring minimum sampling for Listeria on food contact surfaces.” “We cannot let large corporations get away with endangering public health, it is imperative that we hold food companies to the highest st… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T21:43:57Z
https://www.murphy.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/murphy-blumenthal-announce-69-million-for-upgrades-to-cummings-park-west-beach-and-rockwell-park Murphy, Blumenthal Announce $6.9 Million For Upgrades To Cummings Park, West Beach, and Rockwell Park 2024-09-26 2024 2024-09 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.), a member of the U.S. Senate Appropriations Committee, and U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) on Thursday announced the National Park Service awarded the state of Connecticut a total of $6.9 million in federal grants to renovate recreation facilities and advance land conservation efforts. The grants are funded through the Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership (ORLP) and will provide $5 million for improvements to Cummings Park and West Beach in Stamford, and $1.9 million for Rockwell Park in Bristol. “Public parks and beaches provide an important benefit to our communities because they’re places where everyone can have fun, enjoy the outdoors, and connect with their neighbors. This $6.9 million in federal funding will help upgrade Cummings Park and West Beach in Stamford, and Rockwell Park in Bristol, to ensure more families have the opportunity to take advantage of our state’s beaches, hiking trails, and green spaces,” said Murphy. “This $6.9 million in federal funding will modernize and upgrade facilities at two of Connecticut’s beautiful, beloved parks – Cummings Park and West Beach, and Rockwell Park. Ensuring that Connecticut residents have access to top notch outdoor spaces is vital to their health and well-being. I will continue to fight for investments in Connecticut’s treasures and expanded access to outdoor recreation,” said Blumenthal. The ORLP program provides matching grants to cities for park projects in underserved communities. These investments enable urban communities to create new outdoor recreation spaces, reinvigorate existing parks, and form connections between people and the outdoors. ### 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-07T21:43:57Z

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