home / press

Menu
  • Search all tables

Press releases

One row per release. Full-text search runs over title + body text.

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

url
Link to the original release on the member's official site
text
Extracted body text (may be empty if the page could not be fetched)
has_text
1 if body text was successfully extracted
date_source
How the publication date was determined
bioguide_id
Bioguide ID of the member

406 rows where chamber = "Senate", state = "IL" and year = 2024 sorted by date descending

✎ View and edit SQL

This data as json, CSV (advanced)

year 1

  • 2024 · 406 ✖

state 1

  • IL · 406 ✖

party 1

  • Democrat 406

chamber 1

  • Senate · 406 ✖
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.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-highlights-2024-accomplishments-in-year-end-round-up Duckworth Highlights 2024 Accomplishments in Year-End Round Up 2024-12-30 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – As 2024 comes to a close, U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) highlighted several key accomplishments she secured over the last year: “From helping almost 2,600 Illinoisans recover more than $11 million the Federal Government owed them to bringing home hundreds of millions of dollars to get the lead out of our children’s drinking water, and from protecting IVF access for hopeful parents across the nation to helping make flying safer and more efficient for traveling Illinoisans and travelers with disabilities, I’m so proud of everything we’ve accomplished this year,” Duckworth said. “It’s a true honor to continue serving Illinoisans in the United States Senate and while I know the year ahead may look different than many of us hoped it would, I also know there’s still much we can accomplish to help save working families money, end preventable gun violence, invest in communities that have been ignored for too long, advocate for Illinois on a global stage, support our troops while keeping the promises we’ve made to our Veterans as well as protect and defend our civil and reproductive rights—including guaranteeing access to IVF. I’m eager to get back to work on these goals and so many more for Illinois in 2025.” Over the past year, Duckworth and her office responded to nearly 900,000 emails and other messages as well as assisted more than 2,600 Illinoisans who were experiencing difficulties navigating the federal bureaucracy, helping recover more than $11.6 million in Social Security payments, Veterans’ benefits, tax refunds and more. A select list of Duckworth’s accomplishments from the past year is below. Key Accomplishments: Establishing the Springfield 1908 Race Riot Site as a National Monument: In August, Duckworth joined President Biden as he signed an official declaration to make the site of the 1908 Springfield Race Riot a national monument—a culmination of Duckworth’s more than five years of work to make it happen. Duckworth began calling for national monument recognition in 2018, fir… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-secures-key-ndaa-provisions-to-strengthen-rock-island-arsenal-support-families-and-farmers-in-illinois-and-beyond Duckworth Secures Key NDAA Provisions to Strengthen Rock Island Arsenal, Support Families and Farmers in Illinois and Beyond 2024-12-23 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] — Combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), who served in the Reserve Forces for 23 years and is a member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), secured several important provisions to support our state in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that passed Congress this week. Some of priorities Duckworth secured to help Illinoisans include expanding housing opportunities and surrounding infrastructure at Rock Island Arsenal, supporting school districts near military bases by helping alleviate state and local tax base funding shortfalls and expanding our military’s use of sustainable aviation fuels, which supports our Illinois farmers, protects the environment and drives economy opportunity throughout the Midwest. “The brave Illinoisans who serve our nation in uniform at home and abroad deserve to know that our country fully supports them as they and their families sacrifice to defend our country,” said Senator Duckworth. “While I do not support every provision in this bipartisan compromise, I’m proud I was able to secure critical provisions that benefit our state by strengthening Rock Island Arsenal, helping ensure our schools serving communities around our military bases have the support they need and expanding our military’s use of renewable aviation fuels. I voted to pass this legislation because our troops deserve each of those improvements and because it’s the right thing to do for our national security. I hope the President signs it as soon as possible.” Key Duckworth provisions secured in this year’s Committee-passed NDAA aimed at supporting Illinoisans include: Support a Strong and Ready Total Force by: Building More Inclusive Playgrounds by authorizing a pilot program) to build or upgrade inclusive playgrounds at one military installation within each of the military departments to directly support Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) families. Illinois military bases, including Scott Air Force base, Rock Island Arsenal and… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/senate-confirms-david-capozzi-to-amtrak-board-of-directors-duckworth-created-disability-advocate-seat Senate Confirms David Capozzi to Amtrak Board of Directors’ Duckworth-created Disability Advocate Seat 2024-12-23 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—a member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation (CST) and author of the All Stations Accessibility Program (ASAP) Act—celebrated the United States Senate voting by voice vote to confirm David Capozzi to serve on Amtrak’s Board of Directors as the Boards’ designated disability advocate—a seat created by a provision Duckworth authored and successfully included in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. On Amtrak’s Board, Capozzi will help ensure senior Amtrak leadership hears the voices of individuals with disabilities who have demonstrated histories or experience with accessibility, mobility and inclusive transportation in passenger rail or commuter rail. “I worked hard to create this position on Amtrak’s Board of Directors because it is important that the disability community is represented at the table, and I’m proud that the Senate confirmed David Capozzi to serve in this important role,” said Senator Duckworth. “It’s long past time for Amtrak to prioritize the voices of the disability community and ensure the more than 70 million Americans living with a disability are heard by our nation’s premier passenger rail service. I look forward to Mr. Capozzi swiftly beginning his work with the rest of the Amtrak Board and other stakeholders to implement policies that do more to protect the dignity of passengers with disabilities.” David Capozzi is a retired federal senior executive. He was the Executive Director of the U.S. Access Board from 2008-2020 and was the Director of the Board’s Office of Technical and Information Services from 1992-2008. Prior to joining the Access Board, Capozzi was Director of Project ACTION and Vice President of Advocacy for Easter Seals, as well as the National Advocacy Director for the Paralyzed Veterans of America. He was a member of the legal team and lobbying captain for the disability community that helped craft the Americans with Disabilities Act. Capozzi was the lead negotiator on the Department of … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-durbin-applaud-senate-passage-of-bipartisan-legislation-to-help-ensure-public-employees-receive-full-social-security-benefits Duckworth, Durbin Applaud Senate Passage of Bipartisan Legislation to Help Ensure Public Employees Receive Full Social Security Benefits 2024-12-21 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Today, U.S. Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and Dick Durbin (D-IL) applauded the Senate passage of the bipartisan Social Security Fairness Act to ensure public sector workers and their families are able to receive full Social Security benefits after two previous statutes reduced them. The legislation—whose Senate companion Duckworth and Durbin helped cosponsor alongside U.S. Senators Sherrod Brown (D-OH), Susan Collins (R-ME) and 58 other U.S. Senators—would repeal the Social Security Act’s Windfall Elimination Provision (WEP) and the Government Pension Offset (GPO), which significantly reduced benefits for nearly 3 million Americans, many of whom are teachers, police officers and state, county and local government workers. The bill now heads to President Biden’s desk to be signed into law. Full text of the legislation can be found on the Senator’s website. “Millions of Americans have worked their entire lives, paying into Social Security paycheck after paycheck,” said Duckworth. “It’s a well-earned benefit, and I’m proud the Senate passed our bipartisan bill to help us uphold our commitment to building on this critical safety net and protecting it for the folks who teach our children, protect our communities and keep our towns and cities running. I hope President Biden signs it swiftly into law so it can finally begin helping working Americans who depend on it.” “Our letter carriers, teachers, firefighters, law enforcement, and others dedicate years of service to improving the lives of their neighbors and caring for their communities. As they retire, hard-working public servants should have access to their full Social Security benefits,” said Durbin. “I voted in support of the Social Security Fairness Act today to ensure that workers receive the Social Security benefits they’ve earned after a career in public service.” -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-votes-to-avert-another-harmful-trump-shutdown Duckworth Votes to Avert Another Harmful Trump Shutdown 2024-12-21 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) issued the following statement after the Senate passed legislation to keep our government open and spare working families the pain of a shutdown, sending it to the President’s desk to be signed into law: “With tonight’s vote, we’re avoiding yet another needless and harmful Trump government shutdown, supporting our farmers and delivering critical emergency disaster relief to help working Americans in red and blue states alike, including $2.3 billion in aid that Illinoisans struggling in the wake of natural disasters urgently need. “I remain, however, deeply disappointed that—at the behest of an unelected billionaire—Republicans once again went back on their word and tanked their own government funding legislation earlier this week. As a result, we were not able to include my bipartisan bill to protect our children from being poisoned or pass my provision to allow the year-round sale of E15 gasoline nationwide—which my Republican colleague Senator Fischer and I have led the charge on for years because we both recognize how it would help lower gas prices, protect our farmers and drive economic opportunity throughout the Midwest. I will continue working to pass these important policies in the months ahead. “After the last 48 hours of the same sort of needless chaos we grew accustomed to during the first Trump Administration, I’m relieved House Republicans finally remembered the only way to effectively govern is through compromise. I hope Speaker Johnson and MAGA Republicans take this lesson with them into the new year.” -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-capito-molinaro-payne-bipartisan-bill-to-promote-accessibility-at-amtrak-stations-passes-house-set-to-become-law Duckworth-Capito-Molinaro-Payne Bipartisan Bill to Promote Accessibility at Amtrak Stations Passes House, Set to Become Law 2024-12-20 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV)—both members of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation (CST)—applauded the House passage of their bipartisan legislation to help break down unnecessary barriers for Americans with disabilities at Amtrak rail stations across the country. Building on Duckworth’s All Stations Accessibility Program (ASAP) Act, which became law as part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and is already helping improve transportation accessibility nationwide, the bipartisan Think DIFFERENTLY Transportation Act would help bring Amtrak stations up to standards enshrined in the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) by requiring the rail agency to submit annual reports to Congress on its compliance with accessibility standards set by the ADA. The bill now awaits President Biden’s signature. “When the ADA was signed into law, it promised that intercity passenger rail would become accessible within 20 years, yet—more than 30 years later—too many Amtrak stations still fail to live up to that promise,” said Senator Duckworth. “After unanimously passing the Senate earlier this month, I’m proud that our bipartisan bill—which builds on the progress that my ASAP Act in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is already making toward improving transit accessibility—is heading to the President’s desk. This bill sends the message that it’s long past time to ensure our rail stations are accessible for everyone. Whether on transit, rail or a plane, all Americans with disabilities should be able to safely and easily access the transportation systems they need to get around—and I’m proud that this legislation will help make that goal a reality for more Americans.” “Disabled passengers should not be a disadvantage when wanting to use passenger rail, which is why Senator Duckworth and I introduced the Think DIFFERENTLY Transportation Act, which was spearheaded in the House by Rep. Molinaro,” said Senator Capito. “I am glad to see our legislatio… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-colleagues-applaud-senate-passage-of-their-bipartisan-bill-to-provide-tsa-precheck-to-veterans-with-a-disability Duckworth, Colleagues Applaud Senate Passage of Their Bipartisan Bill to Provide TSA PreCheck to Veterans with a Disability 2024-12-20 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Today, U.S. Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), Todd Young (R-IN), Roger Marshall (R-KS) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) applauded Senate passage of their bipartisan legislation to provide Veterans with service-connected disabilities with expedited screening under the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) PreCheck program. While TSA PreCheck is already offered to active duty, Reserves and National Guard servicemembers at no cost, the Veterans Expedited TSA Screening (VETS) Safe Travel Act would expand this program to include Veterans who are amputees, paralyzed or blind who often experience challenges when passing through airport security. The bill passed the House of Representatives by unanimous consent earlier this month and now heads to the President’s desk to be signed into law. “Millions of Veterans have sacrificed a great deal in service to our nation and returned home with service-connected disabilities—for those of us who rely on prosthetics and wheelchairs for mobility, air travel and passing through airport security can be a challenge,” said Senator Duckworth. “I’m proud the Senate passed our bipartisan bill to make TSA PreCheck available at no cost to these Veterans and make flying and passing through airports easier and less intrusive. I hope President Biden swiftly signs it into law.” “Airports can be a dreaded experience for veterans with service-connected disabilities because of the invasive screenings they may endure at security checkpoints. Once it becomes law, this bill will provide dignified travel to thousands of wounded warriors by ensuring PreCheck benefits are easily available to them,” said Senator Young. “Ensuring wounded veterans have little difficulty getting through airport security is a simple but impactful way to honor these heroes sacrifices for our country. I’m proud we delivered this victory before the end of this Congress,” said Senator Marshall. “For veterans who have already overcome extraordinary challenges in service to our country, navigating airport … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-durbin-announce-43-million-in-federal-funding-fro-math-education Duckworth, Durbin Announce $4.3 Million in Federal Funding for Math Education 2024-12-20 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] — U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today announced $4,338,911 in federal funding going to the University of Illinois Board of Trustees through the U.S. Department of Education’s Education Innovation and Research grant program. This award will support professional development for school principals and math educators to increase math proficiency of students. “When we invest in our children’s education, we help set them on a path to succeed both inside and outside the classroom,” Duckworth said. “I’m proud to announce this significant federal funding alongside Senator Durbin that will help provide our state’s principals and math educators with the resources they need to strengthen their students’ proficiency in math and help more kids reach their full potential.” “With today’s announced funding, our schools and teachers will be better supported to educate students and improve their proficiency in math,” said Durbin. “I’ll continue working with Senator Duckworth to ensure Illinois schools have the resources they need to help students succeed.” -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-durbin-illinois-delegation-urge-epa-to-fund-cleanup-of-chicago-area-waterway-system Duckworth, Durbin, Illinois Delegation Urge EPA to Fund Cleanup of Chicago Area Waterway System 2024-12-20 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper The lawmakers sent a letter to the EPA Region 5 Administrator to ask that federal funds immediately be allocated to efforts to clean up the Chicago Area Waterway System, including the pollution at Bubbly Creek [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth, U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Representatives Robin Kelly (D-IL-02), Delia Ramirez (D-IL-03), Jesús G. “Chuy” García (D-IL-04), Mike Quigley (D-IL-05), Sean Casten (D-IL-06), Danny Davis (D-IL-07), Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL-08), and Jan Schakowsky (D-IL-09), today sent a letter to U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Region 5 Administrator Debra Shore urging her to immediately allocate funds under the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) to begin the process of characterizing contaminated sediment in the Chicago Area Waterway System (CAWS). As the lawmakers note in their letter, if these funds are allocated to clean CAWS, EPA could begin cleaning up the pollution that has plagued the south fork of the south bend of the Chicago River, known as Bubbly Creek. “We are writing to urge you in your capacity as Great Lakes National Program Manager to immediately allocate funds under the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) to begin the process of characterizing contaminated sediment in the Chicago Area Waterway System (CAWS),” the lawmakers wrote. “For more than 100 years, the CAWS has suffered from pollution; specifically, the south fork of the south bend of the Chicago River, known as Bubbly Creek. This area’s name comes from the bubbles generated from sanitary sewage, industrial waste, and animal waste that were disposed of in the creek for more than 100 years from the adjacent Union Stockyards and other local industries. While the stockyards no longer line this portion of the river banks, the sediment remains highly contaminated, preventing the CAWS’ ecosystem from being restored,” the lawmakers continued their letter. The lawmakers explained that GLRI funds can be used to support efforts to clean up CAWS, citing the … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/in-meeting-with-japanese-ambassador-duckworth-touts-how-ndaa-provisions-she-secured-will-help-bolster-our-nations-alliance In Meeting with Japanese Ambassador, Duckworth Touts How NDAA Provisions She Secured Will Help Bolster Our Nations’ Alliance 2024-12-20 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—a member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations and Armed Services Committees—this week met with Japanese Ambassador to the United States Shigeo Yamada to discuss some of the ways the two countries could build on their shared priorities and strengthen their bilateral alliance. During the meeting, the Senator shared how the modified version of her Access to Care for Overseas Troops Act that was included in the Fiscal Year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that passed the Senate this week would help increase cooperation between Japan and the U.S. while ensuring American servicemembers and their families have access to quality patient care throughout the Indo-Pacific region. Photos from the meeting are available on the Senator’s website. “Whether it’s through trade, business investment or national security, Japan is one of our nation’s closest allies and strongest partners in the Indo-Pacific region,” said Senator Duckworth. “It was a pleasure to meet with Ambassador Shigeo Yamada to share some of the provisions I secured in this year’s bipartisan defense bill that would help strengthen strategic partnerships in the Indo-Pacific region while improving medical readiness for U.S. servicemembers. I look forward to continuing working together to strengthen our longstanding relationship while promoting democracy, security and economic cooperation throughout the region.” Duckworth is a proven leader when it comes to strengthening our relations with Indo-Pacific nations and improving security in the region—which she has done while successfully securing significant international investments in Illinois. Last year, Duckworth led an official visit to Japan and Indonesia as part of her continuing efforts to strengthen ties and reinforce support between allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific region and the United States. Following the official visit, Japan announced a regulatory change that will lead to an increase in imports from U.S. bio… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-booker-urge-cms-to-issue-guidance-on-expanding-fertility-treatment-coverage Duckworth, Booker Urge CMS to Issue Guidance on Expanding Fertility Treatment Coverage 2024-12-19 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and Cory Booker (D-NJ) led colleagues in urging Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Administrator Chiquita Brooks-LaSure to provide guidance to states on expanding coverage for fertility services, including in vitro fertilization (IVF), through their benchmark plans before the end of 2024. In the Senators’ letter, Duckworth and Booker also emphasized the importance of making fertility treatments more accessible and affordable in response to the challenges posed by legal restrictions following the overturning of Roe v. Wade, particularly in states like Alabama, where legal challenges to IVF access have emerged. “Despite significant advances in the medical treatment of infertility, such as IVF, access to and affordability of this care is severely lacking in the U.S. Costs for a single cycle of IVF have recently been estimated to range from $15,000 to $20,000 on average and can exceed $30,000. Unfortunately, current insurance coverage for fertility treatments do not meet the growing need,” the Senators wrote in the letter to CMS. “Now, more than ever, it is crucial to protect the right to fertility treatments and increase access to these services. Therefore, we urge CMS to issue guidance to states on how to cover fertility services through their state benchmark plans and provide technical assistance to states seeking to achieve this coverage,” the Senators concluded. Along with Duckworth and Booker, the letter is cosigned by U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Martin Heinrich (D-NM) and Jeff Merkley (D-OR). The full text of the letter is available on Senator Duckworth’s website. -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-discusses-ndaa-priorities-to-strengthen-indo-pacific-partnerships-with-filipino-ambassador-to-the-united-states-jose-manuel-g-romualdez Duckworth Discusses NDAA Priorities to Strengthen Indo-Pacific Partnerships with Filipino Ambassador to the United States Jose Manuel G. Romualdez 2024-12-19 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—a member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee and U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee—met yesterday with Filipino Ambassador to the United States Jose Manuel G. Romualdez. In their meeting, the two discussed their shared ongoing priorities as well as some of the ways Senator Duckworth is working to strengthen the alliance between the U.S. and the Philippines while bolstering security in the Indo-Pacific region through the Fiscal Year 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which passed the Senate yesterday and now heads to the President’s desk for his signature. Photos of the meeting can be found on the Senator’s website. “I was glad to meet with Ambassador Romualdez to discuss the different ways we can keep working together to further strengthen the U.S.-Philippine Alliance,” said Senator Duckworth. “During our conversation, I’m glad I had a chance to share some of the provisions I secured in this year’s bipartisan defense bill that will help grow our strategic partnerships in the region while expanding medical readiness for U.S. servicemembers. I look forward to continuing to work together with our friends in the Philippines and across the region to ensure security and prosperity throughout the Indo-Pacific.” In the FY2025 NDAA, Duckworth secured several provisions to enhance strategic partnerships and advance U.S. priorities in the Indo-Pacific, including a provision to improve medical readiness for our servicemembers in the Indo-Pacific—which is a modified version of Duckworth’s Access to Care for Overseas Troops Act. Additionally, a Duckworth-led provision in this year’s NDAA would reinforce the U.S.-Vietnam Relationship by extending the duration of the Vietnam Wartime Accounting Initiative and clarifying the purpose of the cooperative program to expand its activities. Duckworth is a proven leader when it comes to strengthening our relations with Indo-Pacific nations and improving security in the region—which she has done while su… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-durbin-foster-celebrate-passage-of-resolution-to-name-fermilab-research-center-after-renowned-physicist-dr-helen-edwards Duckworth, Durbin, Foster Celebrate Passage of Resolution to Name Fermilab Research Center After Renowned Physicist Dr. Helen Edwards 2024-12-19 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper The bicameral resolution was included in the final Water Resources Development Act, which now heads to President Biden’s desk for signature [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Representative Bill Foster (D-IL-11) today applauded the House and Senate passage of their bicameral resolution, included in the Water Resources Development Act of 2024, to rename Fermilab’s Integrated Engineering Research Center (IERC) after the late Dr. Helen Edwards, who worked at Fermilab as a particle physicist for 40 years. The IERC is home to new office and lab space that hosts an intersection of scientific disciplines. “Illinois’s own Fermilab is a crown jewel of American innovation at the forefront of cutting-edge science,” Duckworth said. “For years, hundreds of scientists and engineers at Fermilab have dedicated their expertise to scientific discovery and answering some of the world’s most complicated questions, including the late and brilliant Dr. Helen Edwards. I’m proud that our resolution to rename the Integrated Engineering Research Center after Dr. Edwards is heading to President Biden’s desk to be signed into law—it’s well-deserved, and it tells generations of girls interested in science that they belong at the table.” “An extraordinary scientist, Dr. Helen Edwards dedicated 40 years of her life to deepening our understanding of particle physics. Her pioneering work in the design, construction, and operation of the Tevatron earned her well-deserved national recognition and provided the foundation for the advanced particle physics research conducted by Fermilab scientists today,” said Durbin. “I look forward to seeing Dr. Edwards’ name on Fermilab’s new IERC, honoring her decades of historic work.” “Over its history, Fermilab's success has been built by the hard work of committed scientists. Helen Edwards was a scientific and technical leader of Fermilab from its earliest days, and she was a dear friend. Helen was also deeply committed to the ac… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-durbin-secure-illinois-wins-in-water-resources-development-act Duckworth, Durbin Secure Illinois Wins in Water Resources Development Act 2024-12-19 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper The bill, which includes provisions on Brandon Road, Quincy Bay, and Cahokia Heights, will head to President Biden’s desk [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), founding Co-Chair of the Senate’s first-ever Environmental Justice Caucus, and U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), a member of the Environmental Justice Caucus, today highlighted several critical provisions they successfully secured for Illinois in the bipartisan Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2024, which passed the Senate and will head to President Biden’s desk. These provisions – ranging from adjusting the cost share for the Brandon Road Project to improving water infrastructure in the Metro East region – aim to accelerate and fund major infrastructure projects across the state while bringing environmental justice to marginalized communities. “Protecting and strengthening our inland waterways and water infrastructure is critical to growing our local economies and protecting the health and safety of our communities,” Duckworth said. “I’m glad to see the Water Resources Development Act—which includes my provisions to boost the economy, protect public health and address environmental injustices—head to President Biden’s desk to be signed into law. I’m particularly proud that this legislation prioritizes the communities that are at the forefront of these climate change challenges yet are far too often overlooked by those in positions of power.” “Chock-full of funding for water infrastructure projects in Illinois, this year’s Water Resources Development Act is well-rounded legislation that will support our state in improving its water infrastructure. The WRDA will help modernize dilapidated infrastructure, protect lands prone to dangerous flooding, and take the burden off the State of Illinois to financially support the Brandon Road Project, which aims to protect our valuable Great Lakes,” said Durbin. “Senator Duckworth and I fought to ensure Illinois was well-taken care of in the legislation, and I’m encouraged to… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-durbin-stabenow-peters-secure-increase-in-federal-cost-share-to-help-protect-the-great-lakes-in-final-2024-water-resources-development-act Duckworth, Durbin, Stabenow, Peters Secure Increase in Federal Cost Share to Help Protect the Great Lakes in Final 2024 Water Resources Development Act 2024-12-19 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper Containing a provision changing the federal cost-share to 90/10 for the operation and management of Brandon Road, WRDA heads to the President’s desk after last night’s Senate passage [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) and U.S. Senator Gary Peters (D-MI) lauded the inclusion of their provision to increase the federal cost share for the Brandon Road Project in the Water Resources Development Act of 2024 (WRDA), which passed the Senate last night. Under the provision, the federal government will pay 90 percent of the operation and maintenance costs for Brandon Road after the project’s construction is complete, significantly lowering the costs of maintaining the infrastructure for Illinois. The Brandon Road Project will construct a new engineered channel at Brandon Road in Joliet, Illinois, that will be used to test and deploy a range of technologies that will prevent invasive carp from moving further north to the Great Lakes. “The Brandon Road Project is critical in protecting the Great Lakes from invasive carp, a growing threat to our entire inland waterways system and to the countless Illinois communities and businesses that rely on strong and vibrant aquatic ecosystems,” Duckworth said. “Increasing the federal cost share for this project and its continued operation and management is something we’ve been working toward for years, along with our strong partners in Michigan. I’m proud our provision that will do just that is now heading to President Biden’s desk to be signed into law.” “Right now, invasive carp pose a serious economic and environmental threat to one of our region’s greatest assets and resources – the Great Lakes. The Brandon Road Project is critical to stymie this threat before invasive carp can do irreparable harm,” said Durbin. “With our provision in WRDA committing the federal government to maintaining the operations of the completed Brandon Road Project, we are one step closer to ens… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-durbin-announce-19-billion-funding-agreement-with-fta-to-support-chicagos-red-line-extension-project Duckworth, Durbin Announce $1.9 Billion Funding Agreement with FTA to Support Chicago's Red Line Extension Project 2024-12-18 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Representatives Robin Kelly (D-IL-02), Delia Ramirez (D-IL-03), Jesús “Chuy” García (D-IL-04), Mike Quigley (D-IL-05), Danny K. Davis (D-IL-07) and Jan Schakowsky (D-IL-09) announced that the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) intends to sign a full funding grant agreement for the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA)’s Red Line Extension Project. The funding agreement will contractually obligate $1.9 billion in federal funding to the project, solidifying the federal government’s commitment to the project. “No matter their zip code, all Chicagoans deserve reliable and accessible public transit to get to school, get to work and more easily move throughout Chicagoland,” Duckworth said. “After my efforts alongside Senator Durbin and our Chicagoland House colleagues to push for this, I’m grateful to help announce this nearly $2 billion funding commitment from Biden Administration for the Red Line Extension Project, which will make a real difference in the lives of so many on Chicago’s South Side, not just by improving transit options for residents but also with the thousands of jobs this project will create and the economic benefits it will bring. I’ll keep working with Senator Durbin and the Illinois delegation to make our public transportation more efficient, safe and accessible for all of Chicago.” “The announcement of a $1.9 billion full funding grant agreement is a significant milestone for the City of Chicago as it moves forward with the Red Line Extension Project,” said Durbin. “Thousands of residents on the South Side of Chicago have been waiting for this project to become a reality. This extension will improve transit access for Chicagoans while creating thousands of jobs and bolstering our economy. I’m heartened to see this firm commitment, with significant buy-in, from the federal government, which my Chicago-area delegation colleagues and I have long-advocated for.” This announcement follows a le… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-durbin-sorensen-call-for-extension-of-federal-funding-for-chicago-quad-cities-passenger-rail-project Duckworth, Durbin, Sorensen Call for Extension of Federal Funding for Chicago-Quad Cities Passenger Rail Project 2024-12-18 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper The lawmakers sent a letter to Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg asking him to extend federal funding, which will expire on December 31, for the rail project [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Representative Eric Sorensen (D-IL-17) sent a letter to U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg urging him to grant an extension for the federal funding secured for the proposed Chicago-Quad Cities passenger rail project, an Amtrak route between Chicago and Moline, Illinois. In their letter, the lawmakers emphasized that progress has been made in the planning phase of the project but that, in order to move the project forward, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) must extend the availability of previously granted federal funds beyond December 31. “We write to express our continued support for the proposed state-supported Amtrak route between Chicago and Moline, Illinois. We also urge the Department of Transportation (DOT) to issue an extension for the federal funding previously secured for project, which is set to expire on December 31, 2024,” the lawmakers began their letter. In 2019, then-Secretary of Transportation Elain Chao granted the Chicago-Quad Cities passenger rail project a five-year extension because a previous Illinois governor had caused delays. However, under Governor JB Pritzker, the state has renewed its financial commitment to the proposed route and provided $225 million in state funding for the project in the state’s capital bill in 2019. “Over the past year, the Illinois Department of Transportation and Iowa Interstate Railroad have made long-awaited progress in the design phase of the project and agreeing upon its scope. In December 2023, we were pleased to see the Federal Railroad Administration further invest in this project by selecting the Chicago-Quad Cities passenger rail project for a Corridor Identification and Development Grant of $500,000 to develop details about the scope, schedule, and co… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-statement-on-senate-passage-of-bipartisan-ndaa-that-provides-pay-raise-to-our-troops-bolsters-readiness-and-supports-servicemembers-and-their-families-at-home-and-abroad Duckworth Statement on Senate Passage of Bipartisan NDAA That Provides Pay Raise to Our Troops, Bolsters Readiness and Supports Servicemembers and Their Families at Home and Abroad 2024-12-18 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper Among her priorities, the Senator successfully included a provision that would improve access to high-quality medical care for servicemembers and their families in the Indo-Pacific region [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—who served in the Reserve Forces for 23 years and is a member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC)—secured several important provisions in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) that passed the Senate today to support our servicemembers and their families, enhance strategic partnerships in the Indo-Pacific region, improve logistics to bolster readiness and energy resiliency as well as continue to restore American competitiveness. The legislation, which now heads to the President’s desk, also includes an historic pay raise of 14.5% for junior enlisted servicemembers and 4.5% for all servicemembers. “The brave men and women in uniform who serve our nation at home and abroad deserve to know that our country fully supports them as they and their families sacrifice to defend our country,” said Senator Duckworth. “While I do not support every provision in this bipartisan compromise—including MAGA Republicans’ abysmal prohibition of gender-affirming care coverage for our military families—this bill includes a well-deserved and substantial pay raise for our troops and several of my provisions to support our troops and military families, improve readiness and enhance strategic partnerships. I voted to pass this legislation because our troops deserve each of those improvements and because it’s the right thing to do for our national security and I hope the President signs it as soon as possible.” Despite being included in the SASC committee-passed version, an historic provision led by Senator Duckworth that would have expanded IVF coverage for servicemembers and military families was ultimately stripped from the final version of this year’s NDAA during conference negotiations. In reaction to this omission at the eleven… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-young-senators-reintroduce-bill-to-provide-tsa-precheck-to-disabled-veterans Duckworth, Young, Senators Reintroduce Bill to Provide TSA PreCheck to Disabled Veterans 2024-12-18 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) joined U.S. Senators Todd Young (R-IN), Roger Marshall (R-KS) and Maggie Hassan (D-NH) in reintroducing bipartisan legislation that would provide Veterans who have service-connected disabilities with expedited screening under the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) PreCheck program. While TSA PreCheck is already offered to active duty, Reserves and National Guard servicemembers at no cost, the Veterans Expedited TSA Screening (VETS) Safe Travel Act would expand this program to include Veterans who are amputees, paralyzed or blind who often experience challenges when passing through airport security. “Millions of Veterans have sacrificed a great deal in service to our nation and returned home with service-connected disabilities—for those of us who rely on prosthetics and wheelchairs for mobility, air travel and passing through airport security can be a challenge,” said Senator Duckworth. “I’m proud to join Senator Young in re-introducing this bipartisan legislation to make TSA PreCheck available at no cost to these Veterans and make flying and passing through airports easier and less intrusive.” “Airports can be a dreaded experience for veterans with service-connected disabilities because of the invasive screenings they may endure at security checkpoints,” said Senator Young. “Our bill will bring dignified travel to thousands of wounded warriors by ensuring PreCheck benefits are easily available to them.” "Our wounded veterans deserve a TSA security process that respects their sacrifices and minimizes unnecessary stress at checkpoints,” said Senator Marshall. “Offering free PreCheck to wounded veterans is a small but meaningful way to honor their service and make their travel experiences easier." “For veterans who have already overcome extraordinary challenges in service to our country, navigating airport security should not be another hurdle,” said Senator Hassan. “This bipartisan legislation recognizes the unique challenges that many disable… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/aviation-safety-subcommittee-chair-duckworth-joins-dot-secretary-buttigieg-to-celebrate-new-rule-enhancing-protections-for-airline-passengers-with-disabilities Aviation Safety Subcommittee Chair Duckworth Joins DOT Secretary Buttigieg to Celebrate New Rule Enhancing Protections for Airline Passengers with Disabilities 2024-12-17 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—a member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation (CST) and Chair of the CST Subcommittee on Aviation Safety, Operations and Innovation—joined U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg at the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to celebrate the new finalized rule to expand the rights of passengers with disabilities in air travel. This rule mandates that airlines meet more stringent standards for accommodating Americans who use mobility devices, requiring more comprehensive training for relevant airline staff and demanding proper accountability for airlines when something goes wrong. A full livestream of the event is available on YouTube and photos are available on Senator Duckworth’s website. “Too often, airlines treat passengers with disabilities as though our mobility, our independence and our dignity doesn’t matter and get away with it—but with this new rule, we say no more,” said Duckworth. “Today, I’m proud to have joined Secretary Buttigieg to underscore the importance of this new rule, which builds on and helps implement my accessibility provision from this year’s FAA Reauthorization, to ensure that every passenger with a disability is treated with the respect and care they deserve while holding airlines accountable. While we still have a long way to go in our work to make air travel truly accessible for all, this newly finalized rule got us closer to that better, fairer future, and I am so grateful to Secretary Buttigieg for his advocacy and leadership in helping make this a reality.” In 2018, Duckworth authored a first-of-its kind law requiring air carriers to disclose the number of mobility devices they damage, break or lose monthly. Since the DOT began implementing the Duckworth law, it found, among other things, that American Airlines mishandled thousands of wheelchairs and treated passengers with disabilities in an unsafe or undignified manner. These findings prompted the Department to issue the ai… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-senators-question-hegseth-nomination-his-disqualifying-views-on-women-in-the-military-allegations-of-sexual-assault Duckworth, Senators Question Hegseth Nomination, His Disqualifying Views on Women in the Military, Allegations of Sexual Assault 2024-12-17 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and Elizabeth Warren (D-MA)—members of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC)—joined U.S. Senators and fellow SASC members Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY), Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), Tim Kaine (D-VA) and Jacky Rosen (D-NV) in sending a letter to Susan Wiles, President-elect Donald Trump’s incoming Chief of Staff, about whether Pete Hegseth’s attitudes toward women and allegations of sexual assault and harassment disqualify him to be the next Secretary of Defense. Full text of the letter can be found on the Senator’s website. “As Secretary, Mr. Hegseth will set the tone for how women are treated throughout the military and whether women have enough confidence in him to join or remain in the military,” wrote the lawmakers. “Experts tell us that meeting current recruiting goals and building the cutting-edge force we need for the future requires recruiting more women to the force,” wrote the lawmakers. “If women are treated as second-class citizens and barred from competing for the same opportunities for promotions and leadership as men, the military will lose the talent it has and be unable to recruit the talent it needs, and that will undermine our ability to keep Americans safe. Mr. Hegseth’s ill-informed views ignore the significant role women have played in combat roles for the United States of America. His dismissal of women as warfighters drives away both potential recruits and women who are already serving in the armed forces.” Mr. Hesgeth has also been under fire for his alleged history of sexual assault and harassment. Last month, according to press reports, the Trump transition team received a memo alleging that Mr. Hegseth “raped a then-30-year-old conservative group staffer in his room after drinking at a hotel bar.” Additionally, when he served as president of Concerned Veterans of America CVA, a whistleblower report alleged that Hegseth and his management team “sexually pursued the organization’s female staffers” an… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/aviation-safety-subcommittee-chair-duckworth-responds-to-new-dot-rule-enhancing-protections-for-airline-passengers-with-disabilities Aviation Safety Subcommittee Chair Duckworth Responds to New DOT Rule Enhancing Protections for Airline Passengers with Disabilities 2024-12-16 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—a member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation (CST) and Chair of the CST Subcommittee on Aviation Safety, Operations and Innovation—issued the following statement in reaction to the Department of Transportation’s finalization of a rule that will expand the rights of passengers with disabilities. This rule mandated that airlines meet more stringent standards for accommodating Americans who use mobility devices, requiring more comprehensive training for relevant airline staff and demanding proper accountability for airlines when something goes wrong. “I know from personal experience that when an airline damages or breaks a wheelchair, it’s much more than a simple inconvenience—it’s the equivalent of breaking someone’s legs,” said Duckworth. “Decades after both the Americans with Disabilities Act and the Air Carrier Access Act became law, it is long past time that those of us who roll down jet bridges will be treated with the same amount of dignity as those who walk down them. This rule, which builds on and helps implement my accessibility provision from this year’s FAA Reauthorization, is critically important to ensuring that every passenger with a disability is treated with the respect and care they deserve. While we still have a long way to go in our work to make air travel truly accessible for all, this newly finalized rule got us closer to that better, fairer future, and I am so grateful to Secretary Buttigieg for his advocacy and leadership in helping make this a reality.” In 2018, Duckworth authored a first-of-its kind law requiring air carriers to disclose the number of mobility devices they damage, break or lose monthly. Since the DOT began implementing the Duckworth law, it found that American Airlines mishandled thousands of wheelchairs and treated passengers with disabilities in an unsafe or undignified manner. These findings prompted the department to issue the airline a $50 million penalty—the largest DOT … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-discusses-agricultural-priorities-with-illinois-farm-bureau-president-brian-duncan Duckworth Discusses Agricultural Priorities with Illinois Farm Bureau President Brian Duncan 2024-12-16 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) met with Illinois Farm Bureau (IFB) President Brian Duncan and IFB members to discuss shared priorities to grow Illinois’s agriculture industry and support our farmers. In their meeting, Duckworth and the members discussed the importance of supporting our family farmers at home by expanding biofuels production, increasing agricultural export markets and improving farm safety net programs. Photos from the Senator’s meeting can be found on her website. “America has always depended on our nation’s farmers and ranchers to grow the food and fuel we need, and I’m proud to advocate for them on both the national and international stage,” Duckworth said. “The work of Illinois’s farmers is so important to the strength of our state and our nation, and I will continue to do everything I can to support the Illinois Farm Bureau and farmers across the state at the federal level.” In the Senate, Duckworth has been a leader in supporting biofuels, including expansion of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and permanent authority to use E15 fuel year-round. To help increase the availability of E15 biofuels, Duckworth helped introduce the bipartisan Consumer and Fuel Retailer Choice Act and the bipartisan Next Generations Fuel Act to allow the year-round, nationwide sale of ethanol blends higher than 10 percent. Duckworth additionally helped introduce the bipartisan Home Front Energy Independence Act to ban Russian oil and expand use and production of biofuel that’s grown in the American heartland, while providing American families with a less expensive option to fuel their vehicles. Earlier this year, she helped introduce the Farm to Fly Act to help accelerate the production and development of SAF. As a member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Duckworth has been an advocate for Illinois agriculture around the globe and helped secure significant wins for Illinois and American agriculture. After Duckworth’s visit last year, Japan announced a regulatory chan… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-durbin-announce-10-million-in-federal-funding-for-purpose-grown-energy-crops Duckworth, Durbin Announce $10 Million in Federal Funding for Purpose-Grown Energy Crops 2024-12-16 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] - U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today announced $10 million in federal funding through the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Bioenergy Technologies Office awarded to the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. This project will advance the production of low carbon intensity, purpose-grown energy crops that will accelerate a clean energy economy by expanding the domestic supply chain of alternative carbon sources. “As we continue our work to reduce emissions and foster energy independence, one of the most important things we can do is increase the use and supply of American-grown, American-made biofuels—which makes aviation more sustainable and helps Illinois farmers,” said Duckworth. “This significant funding will be in good hands at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign as they work to put Illinois farmers in in the best position to produce and supply sustainable aviation fuel producers. I look forward to seeing the exciting innovations this project will help produce.” “Today’s funding helps to prepare Illinois farmers to be the first choice for supplying companies that are working to make new, American-made low-carbon jet fuels and bio-based products,” said Durbin. “This project will help the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign continue its pioneering breakthroughs on energy crops like miscanthus, switchgrass, algae, pennycress, and fast-growing willow—all new opportunities for Illinois agriculture.” With this funding, the University of Illinois will play an important role in supporting the Federal government’s Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) Grand Challenge goal to produce three billion gallons of SAF annually by 2030 and 35 billion gallons annually by 2050, enough to meet 100 percent of the projected U.S. aviation fuel demand. This research project also supports DOE’s Clean Fuels & Products Shot™ by focusing on lowering net emissions in the fuel and chemical industry through alternative sources of carbon to advanc… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-visits-jalc-nursing-program-expansion-made-possible-by-1-million-federal-investment-she-secured Duckworth Visits JALC Nursing Program Expansion Made Possible by $1+ Million Federal Investment She Secured 2024-12-16 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [CARTERVILLE, IL] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) visited John A. Logan College (JALC) to see firsthand the impacts that a $1,235,000 federal investment she secured through Fiscal Year 2024 Congressionally Directed Spending is having on the college’s nursing program. This Duckworth-secured federal investment enabled JALC to build new classrooms and purchase equipment to better prepare students for careers in health and nursing. While on campus, Duckworth also met with Dr. Kirk Overstreet, JALC’s President, as well as Provost Stephanie Chaney Hartford and the rest of the leadership team. Photos from today’s visit can be found on the Senator’s website. “Our state and our nation are stronger when we invest in our communities and families—and that’s one of the things Congressionally Directed Spending allows us to do,” Duckworth said. “I'm grateful I was able to secure critical support for projects across our state, including this expansion of John A. Logan College's on-campus nursing program. I’m proud to see this federal funding support new, modern classrooms and equipment to help train the next generation of nurses and health professionals at JALC.” John A. Logan College is a public community college in Carterville, Illinois with a total enrollment of about 3,300 students. The JALC Nursing Program offers three stand-alone nursing programs: Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA), Practical Nursing (PN) and Associate Degree Nursing (ADN). In Fiscal Year 2024, Duckworth and U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) successfully secured more than $264 million through the CDS process for Illinois, $182 million in FY23 and another $211 million for Illinois in FY22. A map detailing where funding has gone throughout Illinois can be found on the Senator’s website. Senator Duckworth works with an Independent Review Board to examine and evaluate worthwhile projects focused on building infrastructure, stimulating economic development and providing essential services for Illinois communities. -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-votes-against-confirming-john-ratcliffe-as-cia-director Duckworth Votes Against Confirming John Ratcliffe as CIA Director 2024-12-16 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) released the following statement after the Senate confirmed John Ratcliffe by a vote of 74-25 to serve as CIA Director under President Trump: “When questioned during his last confirmation hearing about his views on torture during the first Trump Administration, John Ratcliffe had weak responses even compared to his fellow nominees—refusing to openly condemn torture as a tactic against captured adversaries. He has failed to prove he’s changed his stance—and for that reason and more, I voted against his nomination today. When you’re stuck bleeding in a helicopter behind enemy lines like I was, you hope and pray that if the enemy finds you first, they treat you humanely. Anyone who can’t categorically condemn torture—which is illegal, immoral and has been proven time and again to be ineffective in extracting accurate intelligence—cannot be trusted to lead the CIA.” -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-meets-with-southern-illinois-airport-director-tours-sius-glenn-poshard-transportation-education-center Duckworth Meets with Southern Illinois Airport Director, Tours SIU’s Glenn Poshard Transportation Education Center 2024-12-14 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [MURPHYSBORO, IL] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation (CST) and Chair of the Subcommittee on Aviation Safety, Operations and Innovation, met with Gary Shafer, Director of the Southern Illinois Airport that she recently secured $500,000 in federal funding for, and toured Southern Illinois University’s Glenn Poshard Transportation Education Center with SIU Chancellor Dr. Austin Lane and former U.S. Representative Glenn Poshard. “Southern Illinois Airport is an essential economic hub for our state and the region, and making sure it has the federal support to thrive is a top priority,” Duckworth said. “I had a good conversation with Director Shafer, Chancelor Lane and Rep. Poshard about plans for Southern Illinois Airport and the Glenn Poshard Transportation Education Center. I will continue to work alongside airport leadership as I advocate for additional federal investments to make our aviation system safer, modernize our infrastructure and support economic development in Illinois.” Earlier this year, Duckworth successfully authored and championed key provisions that were signed into law under President Biden’s bipartisan Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Reauthorization Act of 2024. These provisions will improve consumer safety, expand the aviation workforce and enhance protections for travelers with disabilities. In October, Duckworth secured $500,000 in Delta Regional Authority (DRA) SEDAP Funding for Southern Illinois Airport to support hangar expansion projects. The Glenn Poshard Transportation Education Center at Southern Illinois Airport is considered the premier transportation education center in the Midwest and among the top such facilities in the country. In October 2022, SIU renamed the Center to the Glenn Poshard Transportation Education Center to honor the former SIU System president, whose efforts are credited with helping secure funding for the state-of-the-industry facility that houses Southern Illinois University … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-durbin-announce-over-7-million-to-help-prepare-young-illinoisans-to-succeed-in-high-demand-careers Duckworth, Durbin Announce Over $7 Million to Help Prepare Young Illinoisans to Succeed in High-Demand Careers 2024-12-13 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and Dick Durbin (D-IL) today announced more than $7 million in grant funding for five youth organizations in Illinois participating in the U.S. Department of Labor’s YouthBuild Program, which is a community-based pre-apprenticeship program that provides job training and educational services for 16 to 24 year-olds who left school without a secondary diploma. “I’m glad to see this funding go to these important organizations across our state to help educate and train even more young Illinoisans for good-paying jobs in high-demand industries while at the same time helping create more affordable housing throughout our state,” said Senator Duckworth. “These sorts of investments can help change lives and communities for the better, and I’ll keep working to bring additional federal funding like this home to Illinois.” “Communities are made stronger when the federal government invests in building careers,” said U.S. Senator Durbin. “Through hands-on job training and educational services, today’s announced grants will equip young Illinoisans with the tools and skills necessary to thrive in an ever-evolving workforce.” Under this announcement, the following organizations will receive funding: Kennedy-King College (Chicago, IL): $1,492,128 Community Youth Development Institute (Chicago, IL): $1,500,000 Homework Hangout Club, Inc. (Decatur, IL): $1,500,000 Metropolitan Family Services (Chicago, IL): $1,219,000 Youth Conservation Corps, Inc. (Waukegan, IL): $1,500,000 Participants in YouthBuild programs split their time between the vocational training work site and the classroom, where they earn their high school diploma or equivalency degree, learn to be community leaders and prepare for postsecondary training opportunities, including college, apprenticeships and employment. YouthBuild includes significant support systems, such as a mentoring, follow-up education, employment and personal counseling services, as well as participation in community service and ci… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-durbin-quigley-call-on-transportation-leaders-to-reach-agreement-finalize-federal-funding-for-chicago-hub-improvement-project Duckworth, Durbin, Quigley Call on Transportation Leaders to Reach Agreement, Finalize Federal Funding for Chicago Hub Improvement Project 2024-12-13 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper The lawmakers sent a letter to the leaders of Amtrak, Canadian National, Union Pacific, and Metra calling on them to reach an agreement on project details for the Chicago Hub Improvement Project [CHICAGO, IL] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Representative Mike Quigley (D-IL-05) today sent a letter to the leaders of Amtrak, Canadian National, Metra, and Union Pacific, urging the leaders to reach an agreement on all outstanding aspects of Amtrak and the Illinois Department of Transportation’s upcoming federal grant application to advance the Chicago Hub Improvement Project (CHIP) for Chicago Union Station (CUS). The application for the 2024 Federal-State Partnerships for Intercity Passenger Rail grant, which would help fund the completion of CHIP, is due by December 16. Since the members met with Union Pacific (UP) CEO Jim Vena in February 2024, UP has been a collaborative partner with Amtrak and has been helpful with advancing the project. The lawmakers emphasized the magnitude of completing the application by writing, “There is much at stake—not only for Chicago, but the entire Midwest—that hinges upon successful submission of a robust application for one of the few remaining rounds of Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding.” Chicago is a national hub for passenger, commuter, and freight rail, with more trackage radiating in more directions than any other city in North America. CUS serves 3.3 million Amtrak riders annually, along 16 Amtrak intercity rail lines, and has more than 30 million riders across all rail services. Chicago is also at the center of Amtrak’s Midwestern 15-year expansion plan to connect dozens of cities in roughly 160 communities with Amtrak service. The lawmakers then called on the transportation leaders to work together to submit a coordinated grant application to ensure that the City of Chicago receives the necessary funds to support CHIP. “If all parties fail to submit and support a coordinated application, the entire region… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-highlights-need-to-protect-ivf-access-pass-her-right-to-ivf-act-during-carterville-roundtable Duckworth Highlights Need to Protect IVF Access, Pass Her Right to IVF Act During Carterville Roundtable 2024-12-13 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper Despite Trump’s campaign promises, Republicans have continued their efforts to restrict IVF coverage and access [CARTERVILLE, IL] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today hosted a discussion at John A. Logan College with IVF providers, advocates and families on the challenges they face with IVF access at risk across the country after Donald Trump’s Supreme Court Justices overturned Roe v. Wade. She was joined by local IVF recipients, as well as doctors, medical professionals and leaders from SIH Memorial Hospital of Carbondale, Shawnee Health, Washington University and Deaconess Illinois. Duckworth, the author of the Right to IVF Act, has been leading the charge in Congress to protect access to IVF nationwide in the face of Republicans’ continued crusade against women’s access to critical reproductive health care. Photos from today’s event are available on the Senator’s website. “Despite promising to protect IVF access on the campaign trail, no one should forget that IVF access is only at risk in the first place because Donald Trump overturned Roe, and when he had the chance this week to keep his promise by pushing to protect IVF for servicemembers—he did nothing,” Duckworth said. “Struggling with infertility is painful enough—and every American deserves access to the treatment and tools they need to build the family of their dreams without the fear of being prosecuted for it. That’s one reason why—regardless of Trump continuing to break his own promises—I’m going to do everything I can to protect IVF access nationwide by working to pass my Right to IVF Act.” Duckworth’s Right to IVF Act, comprehensive legislation she led with U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA) and Cory Booker (D-NJ), would establish a right to IVF and other assisted reproductive technology (ART), expand access for hopeful parents, Veterans and federal employees and help lower the costs of IVF for middle class families across the country. Despite many of them publicly claiming to support IVF for the millions of Americans who rely on it to bu… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/12/12/2024/duckworth-meets-with-illinois-gun-violence-prevention-advocates-reiterates-call-to-protect-lives Duckworth Meets with Illinois Gun Violence Prevention Advocates, Reiterates Call to Protect Lives 2024-12-12 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today met with Illinois community members and gun violence prevention advocates and survivors to discuss their shared efforts to save American lives and pass common-sense gun safety reform like the federal assault weapons ban. The meeting included representatives from Highland Park, Moms Demand Action in Illinois and the Newtown Action Alliance. Photos from today’s meeting are available on the Senator’s website. “The needless and preventable gun violence that too many Illinoisans—and Americans across the country—experience is heartbreaking and not reflective of the kind of future my daughters or any of our young people deserve,” Duckworth said. “And yet, these leaders and community advocates continue to show their courage and dedication every day as they work to make our communities safer. I was proud to meet with them today, and I’ll never stop working for commonsense gun safety reforms that can save lives and help prevent future tragedies from ever happening.” Duckworth has been a fierce advocate of getting weapons of war off our streets. She supported the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, which President Biden signed into law to help crack down on straw purchasing, expand background checks for buyers under 21 years of age, take steps to close the “boyfriend loophole,” support state red flag laws and offer billions in funding for counseling, mental health, and trauma support for victims of gun violence. In May, Duckworth and U.S. Representative Jonathan Jackson (D-IL-01) introduced the Blair Holt Firearm Licensing and Record of Sale Act to help reduce firearm violence in Illinois and across the country by prohibiting unlicensed firearm ownership and the transfer of firearms without a valid firearms license. The legislation, which Duckworth has been pushing for since 2018, would also direct the U.S. Attorney General to establish and maintain a federal record of sale system and conduct fingerprint-based nationwide criminal background checks. This past Fo… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/aviation-safety-subcommittee-chair-duckworth-reacts-to-faa-administrator-whitakers-decision-to-resign Aviation Safety Subcommittee Chair Duckworth Reacts to FAA Administrator Whitaker’s Decision to Resign 2024-12-12 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Today, U.S. Senator and pilot Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—a member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation (CST) and Chair of the CST Subcommittee on Aviation Safety, Operations and Innovation—issued the following statement in reaction to FAA Administrator Mike Whitaker’s decision to resign on January 20, 2025: “I am saddened to learn of FAA Administrator Whitaker’s plan to resign next month. His leadership has been invaluable during this critical time, and our aviation system is safer because of his service. Our nation owes him a debt of gratitude. His oversight of Boeing’s ongoing safety issues has been so important, and whoever replaces him at FAA must continue these important efforts in order to keep the flying public as safe as possible.” -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-cardin-and-colleagues-venezuelas-demand-for-freedom-will-not-be-silenced Duckworth, Cardin and Colleagues: Venezuela’s Demand for Freedom Will Not Be Silenced 2024-12-12 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—a member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee (SFRC)—joined SFRC Chair Ben Cardin (D-MD) and other members of SFRC in issuing 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 only possible through sustained action. The U.S. Congress remains firmly dedicated to championing policies to support the Venezuelan people in … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-celebrates-commerce-committee-advancing-amtrak-board-of-directors-disability-advocate Duckworth Celebrates Commerce Committee Advancing Amtrak Board of Directors Disability Advocate 2024-12-12 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—a member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation (CST) and author of the All Stations Accessibility Program (ASAP) Act—issued the following statement after the full committee voted to advance David Capozzi to serve on Amtrak’s Board of Directors. Capozzi would serve in the designated disability advocate seat on the board, which was created by a provision Duckworth authored and successfully included in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. If confirmed, Capozzi would help ensure the senior Amtrak leadership hears the voices of individuals with disabilities who have demonstrated histories or experience with accessibility, mobility and inclusive transportation in passenger rail or commuter rail. His nomination now heads to the Senate floor for final confirmation. “I worked hard to create this position on Amtrak’s Board of Directors because it is important that the disability community is represented at the table, and today I’m proud to have helped advance David Capozzi’s nomination to serve in this important role,” said Senator Duckworth. “It’s long past time Amtrak prioritizes the voices of the disability community and ensures the more than 70 million Americans living with a disability are heard by our nation’s premier passenger rail service. I hope the full Senate confirms Mr. Capozzi soon so he can begin working with the rest of the Amtrak board and other stakeholders to implement policies that do more to protect the dignity of passengers with disabilities.” David Capozzi is a retired federal senior executive. He was the Executive Director of the U.S. Access Board from 2008-2020 and was the Director of the Board’s Office of Technical and Information Services from 1992-2008. Prior to joining the Access Board, Capozzi was Director of Project ACTION and Vice President of Advocacy for Easter Seals, as well as the National Advocacy Director for the Paralyzed Veterans of America. He was a member of the legal team and lobbying ca… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworths-aviation-safety-subcommittee-emphasizes-urgent-need-to-improve-air-traffic-control-systems-to-prevent-near-misses-and-protect-flying-public Duckworth’s Aviation Safety Subcommittee Emphasizes Urgent Need to Improve Air Traffic Control Systems to Prevent Near-Misses and Protect Flying Public 2024-12-12 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Today, U.S. Senator and pilot Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—Chair of the U.S. Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation (CST) Subcommittee on Aviation Safety, Operations and Innovation—led a subcommittee hearing focused on the challenges facing our passenger aviation system amid the busy holiday travel season, where she underscored the urgent need to invest in updated air traffic control (ATC) systems and equipment to prevent near-misses and protect the flying public. This hearing comes amid the chilling surge in near-deadly close calls involving commercial airlines that is adding serious pressure to our aviation workforce and putting the safety of the flying public at risk, and after the Government Accountability Office (GAO) issued a September report that determined a significant amount of ATC equipment was outdated, unsustainable and in urgent need of modernization. Full videos of Senator Duckworth’s opening remarks and questions are available on YouTube. “The safety of the flying public depends upon well-equipped air traffic control systems—and right now, it is deeply troubling that more than one third of them are unsustainable,” said Aviation Safety Chair and Senator Duckworth. “While our new bipartisan FAA Reauthorization law—which I’m proud to have co-authored—makes important investments in air traffic controller staffing and surface detection technology, the alarming rise in close calls coming out of the pandemic underscores that we cannot rest on our laurels. Safety requires constant vigilance, and I’m proud to have led this important hearing to help us better understand what Congress must do to help modernize our ATC systems and ensure our air traffic controllers have the support and equipment they need to keep passengers and crew safe.” In her opening statement during today’s hearing, Duckworth recounted multiple near-misses that occurred at airports across the country this year, underscoring the urgent need for the FAA to act swiftly to modernize ATC systems. In April, a JetBlue plan… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-discusses-northeastern-illinois-water-infrastructure-projects-with-us-army-corps-of-engineers-chicago-district Duckworth Discusses Northeastern Illinois Water Infrastructure Projects with U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Chicago District 2024-12-11 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today met with U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Chicago District Commander Colonel Kenneth Rockwell to discuss a number of issues, including updates on their flood risk management, ecosystem restoration and invasive species protection efforts throughout Northeastern Illinois. Photos from the meeting are available on the Senator’s website. “Protecting and strengthening our inland waterways is critical to growing our local economies and protecting the health and safety of our communities,” Duckworth said. “I was glad to meet with Colonel Rockwell to discuss the importance of water infrastructure and the ongoing projects throughout Northeastern Illinois. I look forward to continuing to work with USACE to help protect our environment, modernize our water infrastructure and grow good-paying, local jobs for the region.” As a leading voice on water infrastructure and environmental justice, Duckworth secured several provisions in the bipartisan Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2022. The Senator’s provisions, which include support for the Navigation and Ecosystem Sustainability Program (NESP), are aimed at bringing environmental justice to marginalized communities by supporting projects in economically disadvantages communities and lowering costs for major water infrastructure projects critical to Illinois and throughout the country. In addition, the Duckworth-authored Drinking Water and Wastewater Infrastructure Act (DWWIA), which was included in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, is the most significant federal investment in water infrastructure in history, including $15 billion for national lead service line replacement. DWWIA also focuses on disadvantaged communities by helping rebuild our nation’s crumbling and dangerous water infrastructure and enable communities to repair and modernize their failing wastewater systems. -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-joins-durbin-colleagues-in-requesting-president-biden-protect-immigrant-families-ahead-of-the-inauguration-of-president-elect-trump Duckworth Joins Durbin, Colleagues in Requesting President Biden Protect Immigrant Families Ahead of the Inauguration of President-Elect Trump 2024-12-11 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) joined U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and other Senate Democrats in sending a letter calling on President Joe Biden to protect immigrant families before the inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump. “As Senators who represent diverse states across our nation and who collectively represent millions of immigrant families, we write to express our deep concern about the threat the incoming administration poses to immigrants in our communities,” the Senators wrote in a letter to President Biden. “Mass deportations would jeopardize the safety and security of millions of mixed-status families, sow deep distrust and fear in the communities we represent, and destabilize the U.S. economy. While we support common-sense steps to better secure our borders and improve border processing, we will continue to oppose any policies that contradict our nation’s core values.” The letter continued, “We write now because the window to secure and finalize your administration’s policies is closing rapidly. We urge you to act decisively between now and the inauguration of the President-elect to complete the important work of the past four years and protect immigrant families.” The Senators went on to request that the Biden Administration prioritize the following actions: Designate and extend Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for all eligible countries and consider providing Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) as appropriate; Expedite the processing of benefit requests for Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) recipients; Protect the ability for DACA holders and others to travel on advance parole; Prioritize adjudication of pending asylum claims; and Finalize the rule providing automatic extensions for those with work permits and prioritize work permit processing. The Senators concluded their letter, “We stand ready to support you in these efforts and are committed to working together to ensure that these priori… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-tours-halsey-village-brings-together-community-and-navy-leadership-to-chart-path-forward-for-improving-servicemember-housing-conditions Duckworth Tours Halsey Village, Brings Together Community & Navy Leadership to Chart Path Forward for Improving Servicemember Housing Conditions 2024-12-07 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [NORTH CHICAGO, IL] – Combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—a member of the U.S. Armed Services Committee (SASC)—toured the Halsey Village housing community, visited Naval Station Great Lakes and brought together Navy and community leaders to discuss their shared efforts to remediate and redevelop Halsey Village as well as help chart a part forward to improve the deplorable housing conditions our servicemembers at the Naval Station have faced for almost 20 years. Duckworth also received a briefing from Navy leadership about the current state of recruitment while visiting the Naval Station. Photos from today’s events are available on the Senator’s website. “While we’re all clear-eyed that remediating the deplorable housing conditions at Halsey Village and redeveloping it into something that improves this community will take years, I was proud to convene so many leaders from Lake County, the North Chicago community and the Navy to help chart a path forward and discuss real solutions that not only recognizes the needs of the residents in the area, but that also prioritizes the wellbeing and health of our servicemembers while ensuring they have a safe place to call home,” Duckworth said. “I think we made some real progress in our discussions and I am optimistic that all parties will continue working together to ensure we achieve these important goals together.” During a SASC hearing in May, Duckworth secured a commitment from Navy Secretary Carlos Del Toro to work with her to ensure that remediating and redeveloping the deplorable housing conditions in Halsey Village at North Chicago’s Naval Station Great Lakes remains a priority for the Navy and that these efforts are resourced appropriately, as well a commitment from the Secretary to personally visit to Halsey Village. Duckworth also highlighted her oversight efforts on Halsey Village and urged the Navy to do more to remedy the neighborhood for military families and the Lake County community. Video from the hearing is available on the Senator’s w… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/12/06/2024/duckworth-discusses-rail-accessibility-and-improvements-with-metra-leadership Duckworth Discusses Rail Accessibility and Improvements with Metra Leadership 2024-12-06 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) this week met with Metra leadership to discuss ongoing rail improvements throughout the Chicagoland area, including Metra’s work on expanding services to O’Hare International Airport and the upcoming Surface Transportation Bill Reauthorization. Duckworth, a member of the U.S. Senate Commerce, Science and Transportation Committee, met with Metra CEO Jim Derwinski and Metra Deputy Executive Director Janice Thomas, who provided updates on their work on accessibility improvements made possible through the All Station Accessibility Program (ASAP) Duckworth successfully created as part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. Her ASAP Law is providing $1.75 billion over five years to build ramps, install elevators and make other improvements to help ensure that all of America’s public transit stations finally become fully accessible for all. “Many Illinoisans rely on Metra to get to work and for so much more, so it’s critical that they can get where they’re going safely, easily and efficiently,” Duckworth said. “As Metra works to improve and expand its services, I look forward to them continuing to use my ASAP program funding to make its stations accessible to everyone, so all Illinoisans can access the commuter rail they need to get to work, get to school or just move throughout the region. I was glad to meet with Metra officials today and look forward to continuing our work together to help folks in Illinois.” In February, Duckworth and U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) helped Metra secure $100 million in grant funding through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) FY24 Rail Vehicle Replacement Program to purchase 50 modern, ADA-accessible, multilevel railcars to replace 40-year-old cars. In December 2022, Duckworth and Durbin helped Metra secure two All Stations Accessibility Program (ASAP) grants, including $37.6 million to improve accessibility at the 59th/60th Street Station on the Metra Electric Line and $29 million to make the 95th Street… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-cassidy-applaud-senate-passage-of-their-bipartisan-bill-to-support-veteran-organizations-which-is-now-set-to-become-law Duckworth, Cassidy Applaud Senate Passage of Their Bipartisan Bill to Support Veteran Organizations, Which Is Now Set to Become Law 2024-12-06 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—who served in the Reserve Forces for 23 years before retiring at the rank of Lieutenant Colonel—and U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy, M.D., (R-LA) celebrated the U.S. Senate passing their Veteran Service Organization (VSO) Equal Tax Treatment (VETT) Act, which would expand the deductibility of charitable contributions to all federally chartered tax-exempt organizations serving current and former members of the Armed Forces. Specifically, it overturns a provision that prohibits Veteran organizations from accepting tax-deductible donations if their membership contains over 10 percent peacetime Veterans. The bill passed the U.S. House of Representatives in September and now heads to the President’s desk to be signed into law. “It’s critical we do all we can to support Veterans Service Organizations, which provide vital assistance and community programming for those who served our nation,” said Senator Duckworth. “I’m proud our bipartisan legislation passed the Senate and is now that much closer to reforming our tax code so that it promotes—rather than discourages—involvement in these community organizations, helping ensure they can continue to be a resource for Veterans to lean on.” “Giving back to the men and women who wore the uniform for our freedom is a noble cause,” said Dr. Cassidy. “If this bill incentivizes one more American to help our veterans, then it has been a good day in the U.S. Senate.” Nearly 2.5 million of the 20 million Veterans across the U.S. are peacetime Veterans. Certain congressionally-chartered Veterans organizations are forced to deny peacetime Veterans membership to avoid dipping below the 90% threshold and losing their ability to accept tax-deductible donations. The VSO Equal Tax Treatment Act would: Provide that charitable contributions made to a federally chartered Veteran Service Organization exempt from tax under section 501(c)(19) of the Internal Revenue Code are deductible for Federal income tax purposes. Am… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-capito-applaud-senate-passage-of-their-bipartisan-bill-to-promote-accessibility-at-amtrak-stations-across-the-country Duckworth, Capito Applaud Senate Passage of Their Bipartisan Bill to Promote Accessibility at Amtrak Stations Across the Country 2024-12-05 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Today, U.S. Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV)—both members of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation (CST)—applauded the Senate unanimously passing their bipartisan legislation that would help break down unnecessary barriers Americans with disabilities continue to face at Amtrak stations across the country. Building on Duckworth’s All Stations Accessibility Program (ASAP) Act, which became law as part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and is already helping improve transportation accessibility nationwide, the bipartisan Think DIFFERENTLY Transportation Act would help bring Amtrak stations up to standards enshrined in the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) by requiring the rail agency to submit annual reports to Congress on the status of its compliance with accessibility standards set by the ADA. “When the ADA was signed into law, it promised that intercity passenger rail would become accessible within 20 years, yet—more than 30 years later—too many Amtrak stations still fail to live up to that promise,” said Senator Duckworth. “I’m proud that our bipartisan bill—which builds on the progress that my ASAP Act in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is already making toward improving transit accessibility—passed the Senate. This bill sends the message that it’s long past time to ensure our rail stations are accessible for everyone. Whether on transit, rail or a plane, all Americans with disabilities should be able to safely and easily access the transportation systems they need to get around—and I won’t stop working until that’s a reality.” Amtrak serves over 28 million riders per year—however, the ADA requiring intercity passenger rail to become accessible within a 20-year time frame is not yet implemented across all Amtrak stations. From 2017 to 2021, Amtrak received $275 million in federal funds to continue making accessibility upgrades and will continue to receive federal funding to do so through 2025 as a result of the Bipartisan… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-emphasizes-environmental-justice-issues-with-league-of-conservation-voters-and-illinois-environmental-council Duckworth Emphasizes Environmental Justice Issues with League of Conservation Voters and Illinois Environmental Council 2024-12-05 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator and co-founder of the first-ever Senate Environmental Justice Caucus Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today met with members of the League of Conservation Voters (LCV) and the Illinois Environmental Council (IEC) to discuss a number of issues, including her work to help create good-paying union jobs, get the lead out of our children’s water, promote clean energy and bring environmental justice to communities that have been ignored for too long. “In order to help preserve our environment for generations to come, we need to make significant investments in climate-resilient infrastructure and the well-paying climate-friendly jobs those investments create,” said Duckworth. “Doing so gives us a chance to not only rebuild and repair communities and support the American workforce, it also creates an opportunity to confront the environmental injustices that low-income communities and communities of color too often bear the burden of. I appreciated today’s opportunity to speak with the League of Conservation Voters and the Illinois Environmental Council about our shared work to achieve these goals, and I will continue to work in Congress to move our country forward in the push against climate change.” As co-chair and co-founder of the U.S. Senate Environmental Justice Caucus, Duckworth has been a strong advocate for bringing environmental justice to Illinois and across the country. She led the charge in the U.S. Senate to remove lead drinking water pipes across the country. Her Drinking Water and Wastewater Infrastructure Act (DWWIA), which was included in the BIL, is the most significant federal investment in water infrastructure in history, including $15 billion for national lead service line replacement. DWWIA, which focuses on disadvantaged communities, is helping rebuild our nation’s crumbling and dangerous water infrastructure and enable communities to repair and modernize their failing wastewater systems. -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-to-trump-you-campaigned-on-promises-made-promises-kept-you-should-start-by-preventing-gop-from-blocking-ivf-coverage-for-servicemembers-and-military-families Duckworth to Trump: You Campaigned on “Promises Made, Promises Kept,” You Should Start by Preventing GOP from Blocking IVF Coverage for Servicemembers and Military Families 2024-12-04 2024 2024-12 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper In a letter, Senator Duckworth urges President-elect Trump to use his influence among Congressional Republicans to prevent them from blocking already-passed legislation that would ensure IVF services are covered for servicemembers and their families [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Today, combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—who served in the Reserve Forces for 23 years and is a member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee—called on President-elect Donald Trump to prove that he is serious about keeping his bold promise that he would mandate the federal government and insurance companies pay for all costs associated with IVF services. The House-passed NDAA, as it currently stands, would provide our nation’s servicemembers with the same level of IVF coverage that Members of Congress receive in 2025—though some Republicans in Congress are quietly attempting to remove that coverage after the House voted 217-199 to pass it. Trump could begin keeping his promise by simply telling those Republicans to end their efforts and ensure IVF is covered for servicemembers and military families. “Although the NDAA will be finalized by the 118th Congress, the fate of one key provision in H.R. 8070, the House-passed NDAA, will make or break your ability to fulfill your election night pledge to ‘…govern by a simple motto: promises made, promises kept,’” wrote Duckworth in her letter to President-elect Trump. “Specifically, I am referring to your bold campaign promise on in vitro fertilization (IVF).” Duckworth continued: “If Republican Members of Congress successfully strike Section 701 from the final bill, they will sabotage your ability to fulfill the promise you made to the American people, including our military families, that, ‘We’re going to be mandating that the insurance company pay.’” In conclusion, Duckworth wrote: “Covering IVF for members of the U.S. Armed Forces and military families should boast unanimous support from Democrats and Republicans alike—especially given your clear and repeated declaration t… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:07:19Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-reflects-on-the-20th-anniversary-of-her-alive-day-the-day-she-almost-diedbut-didnt Duckworth Reflects on the 20th Anniversary of Her Alive Day, the Day She Almost Died—But Didn’t 2024-11-11 2024 2024-11 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper In the last 20 years, the Senator has been a champion for historic laws that protect traveling mothers, clean up our drinking water and more [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) issued the following statement ahead of her “Alive Day,” the day she almost died in a shootdown that took both of her legs and partial use of her right arm: “Tomorrow is the 20th anniversary of my Alive Day, the day I almost died in a dusty field in Iraq after our Blackhawk was shot out of the sky—but didn’t. I’m only alive today because my buddies—who thought I was dead—refused to leave my body behind. As our nation marks Veterans Day, I’m thinking of their heroism that gave me the opportunity to not only live, but live a life so much fuller than I ever imagined. “I’m humbled by and grateful for the trust that my neighbors in Illinois have placed in me in the years since that day, which has given me the opportunity to accomplish more for my fellow Americans than I ever thought possible before being shot down. While I really would have been perfectly content retiring as a helicopter pilot, I’m deeply honored to have had the chance to champion laws that are improving the lives of traveling mothers and making air travel safer and more accessible, to author the law that is making the most significant federal investment in getting the lead out of our children’s drinking water ever, to work to expand our nation’s presence and interests in the Indo-Pacific region while bringing back significant investments and creating jobs here at home, and to help lead the charge to protect reproductive freedom and IVF in the face of Republicans’ anti-choice crusade—and so much more. I’m proud to have been able to continue giving back to the country I love, but as threats against our rights and freedoms continue to escalate at home and abroad, my life’s work—my new mission—is far from finished. “So while I can’t fly combat missions anymore or help drag Soldiers from a burning Blackhawk if the worst should strike again, I will always ke… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:02:12Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/in-belleville-duckworth-honors-and-celebrates-veterans In Belleville, Duckworth Honors and Celebrates Veterans 2024-11-11 2024 2024-11 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [BELLEVILLE, IL] — Combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), who served in the Reserve Forces for 23 years and is a member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), today celebrated Veterans Day. Duckworth honored Veterans and their families today during the City of Belleville’s 26th Annual Veterans Day Ceremony alongside Belleville Mayor Patty Gregory and John Lawson, Superintendent for the Veterans Assistance Commission at St. Clair County. Photos from today’s ceremony are available on the Senator’s website. “Veterans Day is a day of celebration, it’s a moment for all of us to take some time to recognize and honor the service of everyone willing to put on the uniform and sacrifice to keep our great nation safe,” Duckworth said. “Despite the risks, despite the danger, thousands of the bravest people that you and I could ever meet still volunteer to serve in our country’s uniform every year. And when these heroes come home, they deserve more than just an ovation on Veterans Day itself. They deserve to be honored the other 364 days of the year, as well. They deserve access to good-paying jobs, high-quality accessible health care, affordable housing and much more.” Duckworth began the day helping distribute meals with the St. Louis Area Food Pantry and meeting with food-insecure Veterans in Belleville. Photos from this event are available on the Senator’s website. Duckworth has been a fierce supporter of and an effective legislator for our Veterans. She helped pass the Sergeant First Class (SFC) Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act, historic legislation that was signed into law to overhaul the VA’s processes for toxic-exposed Veterans to include presumptions for several illnesses associated with burn pits and Agent Orange exposures to help deliver long-overdue VA healthcare and benefits across all generations of Veterans. Duckworth’s bipartisan Protecting Moms Who Served Act was signed into law to help address the maternal mortality crisis among w… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:02:12Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-reacts-to-election-outcome-reaffirms-commitment-to-upholding-the-will-of-the-american-people Duckworth Reacts to Election Outcome, Reaffirms Commitment to Upholding the Will of the American People 2024-11-06 2024 2024-11 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) issued the following statement after Donald Trump was elected the 47th President of the United States: “As deeply, deeply disappointed as I am by the results of the election, make no mistake: my Democratic colleagues and I—unlike many Republicans after the 2020 election—will uphold the will of the American people, fulfill our constitutional duty and do our part to ensure a peaceful transfer of power. Vice President Harris should be proud not only of her campaign, but also of helping reestablish the quintessential American tradition of accepting the results of our elections. In this country, party loyalty must never take priority over the oath we swore to support and defend our Constitution. “I also sympathize with the millions of Americans who are distraught by the knowledge that Donald Trump will soon be President once again. To each of you, please know that I am as dedicated today as I’ve ever been to doing absolutely everything in my power as a United States Senator to defend our rights and our freedoms. Because if there’s one thing I know, it’s that my buddies and I didn’t sign up to defend our democracy in warzones thousands of miles away only to watch it crumble in hallowed halls back at home.” -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T19:02:12Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-durbin-budzinski-announce-157-million-in-federal-funding-for-springfield-rail-improvements-project Duckworth, Durbin, Budzinski Announce $157 Million in Federal Funding for Springfield Rail Improvements Project 2024-10-25 2024 2024-10 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [SPRINGFIELD, IL] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Representative Nikki Budzinski (D-IL-13) today announced $157,126,494 in federal funding from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) for the final segment of the Springfield Rail Improvements Project (SRIP). The multi-phased project is a large-scale effort supported by local, state and federal funding designed to alleviate rail congestion in downtown Springfield by consolidating train traffic from Third Street to 10th Street and constructing a series of overpasses and underpasses along the corridor. “Investing in our rail infrastructure is about growing our economy and making it easier, faster, safer and more efficient so people and goods can get where they need to go,” Duckworth said. “This significant federal investment in the Springfield Rail Improvements Project will help us build a new multimodal transportation center, improve efficiency for passengers traveling between St. Louis and Chicago, support good-paying jobs and make Springfield safer for pedestrians and drivers. I’ll keep working with Senator Durbin and Congresswoman Budzinski to ensure that our communities are receiving the much-needed federal resources they deserve.” “Connecting communities is at the heart of transportation and today’s announced federal funding for a new Amtrak Station, rail improvements, and track realignment in Springfield will better connect passengers between St. Louis and Chicago,” said Durbin. “The Springfield Rail Improvements Project is dramatically changing downtown Springfield by reducing rail congestion, creating jobs, and improving safety for passengers, drivers, and pedestrians. I will continue advocating for strong investments in Illinois’ transportation infrastructure.” “The Springfield Rail Improvements Project is revitalizing our downtown by reconnecting our community, reducing rail noise and enhancing public safety. It’s also creating good-paying union jobs along the way,” said Budzinski. “I’m … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:55:29Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-jacobs-seek-to-protect-ivf-coverage-in-final-ndaa Duckworth, Jacobs Seek to Protect IVF Coverage in Final NDAA 2024-10-25 2024 2024-10 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] — U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and U.S. Representative Sara Jacobs (D-CA-51) continued their push to ensure the final FY2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) preserves language contained in both the Senate-reported and House-passed versions of the NDAA that would require TRICARE coverage of fertility services, including in vitro fertilization (IVF), for our nation’s servicemembers. In a letter to Senate and House Armed Services Committee leadership, the lawmakers—who authored and successfully secured inclusion of the IVF coverage provisions in the Senate and House bills, respectively—called for servicemembers and military families to receive the same level of IVF coverage that’s accessible to Members of Congress and federal employees next year. Senator Duckworth is a combat Veteran who served in the Reserve Forces for 23 years and is a member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC). “We strongly believe U.S. servicemembers and military families deserve fertility benefit coverage in 2025 that is at least comparable to what Members of Congress will receive,” the lawmakers wrote. “It would be hypocritical for Members of Congress to enjoy high quality fertility benefit coverage next year, right on the heels of denying such IVF coverage to brave Americans willing to defend our country in uniform, and the dedicated military families that sacrifice to support their loved ones’ service to our great country.” Two-thirds of servicemembers, who often spend their prime reproductive years in hazardous conditions and away from their partners, have reported experiencing family-building challenges after returning home. As a result, many TRICARE beneficiaries pay tens of thousands of dollars in out-of-pocket costs for fertility treatment. Expanding IVF coverage would strengthen recruitment, retention and readiness efforts—all while supporting those who have sacrificed greatly for the United States. “Failing to provide high-quality IVF coverage through TRICARE would perpetuate an un… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:55:29Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-durbin-join-sanders-peters-stabenow-and-18-fellow-senators-in-demanding-stellantis-keep-its-promises-to-autoworkers Duckworth, Durbin Join Sanders, Peters, Stabenow and 18 Fellow Senators in Demanding Stellantis Keep Its Promises to Autoworkers 2024-10-24 2024 2024-10 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – In a letter sent yesterday to the automotive giant responsible for Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and more, U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) joined U.S. Senators Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Gary Peters (D-MI), Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) and 18 of their colleagues in urging 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. The Senators also reinforced the importance of re-opening the idled Stellantis plant in Belvidere. “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…” wrote the Senators. “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.; Re-open the plant in Belvidere, Illinois that was “indefinitely idled” last year; Establish a parts and customer care Mega Hub in Belvidere; Continue to manufacture the Dodge Durango in Detroit through 2025; and Manufacture 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,” wrote the Senators. 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. During the first si… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:55:29Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-durbin-quigley-sorensen-announce-335-million-in-federal-funding-for-peoria-and-chicago-airports Duckworth, Durbin, Quigley, Sorensen Announce $33.5 Million in Federal Funding for Peoria and Chicago Airports 2024-10-23 2024 2024-10 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [CHICAGO, IL] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), U.S. Representatives Mike Quigley (D-IL-05) and Eric Sorensen (D-IL-17) today announced $33,510,000 in federal funding from the Department of Transportation’s Airport Terminal Program. With today’s announced funding, General Wayne A. Downing Peoria International Airport will receive $13,510,000 for the replacement of their air traffic control tower, and Chicago O’Hare International Airport will receive $20,000,000 for an expansion to Terminal 5. “Illinois’s airports are critical economic engines for our state,” Duckworth said. “This funding will help improve and modernize O’Hare and Downing International Airports and, after years of neglecting our nation’s infrastructure, I’m proud every day to see the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law at work rebuilding infrastructure all across our country. I will continue to work alongside Senator Durbin and the Illinois delegation to make traveling safer and more reliable for all passengers while ensuring that our communities are receiving the much-needed federal resources they deserve.” “By improving and modernizing airport infrastructure, we are laying the foundation for increased connectivity and reliability,” said Durbin. “Today’s announced federal funding for upgrading our airports across Illinois will enhance the travel experience for passengers and promote economic growth. I will continue working with Senator Duckworth and our Congressional colleagues to ensure Illinois airports have the necessary federal resources to keep passengers safe and connected.” “This important funding coming to Peoria International Airport is about connecting my neighbors in Central Illinois to the world. The new air traffic control tower will allow controllers to see the end points of both runways and all taxiways, making it safer for travelers and airport staff. I am grateful to Senators Durbin and Duckworth for their support of this project as we continue our work to keep air travel safe and … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:55:29Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-reacts-to-american-airlines-landmark-50-million-fine-for-mistreating-wheelchairs Duckworth Reacts to American Airlines’ Landmark $50 Million Fine for Mistreating Wheelchairs 2024-10-23 2024 2024-10 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper This penalty would likely not have happened without a Duckworth-authored law requiring air carriers to disclose the number of wheelchairs it damages each month, protecting and improving consumer experience for passengers with disabilities [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—a member of the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation (CST) and Chair of the Subcommittee on Aviation Safety, Operations and Innovation—issued the following statement after the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) issued a $50 million penalty against American Airlines after the carrier mishandled thousands of wheelchairs between 2019 and 2023. This outcome would not have been possible had Senator Duckworth not authored a law requiring air carriers to disclose how many wheelchairs, motorized scooters and other mobility devices they damage or mishandle each month. “I know from personal experience that when an airline damages or breaks a wheelchair, it’s much more than a simple inconvenience—it’s the equivalent of breaking someone’s legs,” said Duckworth. “After writing the first law to require airlines to disclose the number of lost and damaged wheelchairs, this settlement between DOT and American Airlines is an important move to incentivize American Airlines—and all other carriers operating in the United States—to better handle wheelchairs and mobility devices, which millions of Americans rely on when traveling, in the future. I look forward to working with American Airlines, the disability community and the Administration in fully implementing my many other accessibility and disability provisions in this year’s bipartisan FAA reauthorization law to help ensure every passenger with a disability is treated with the dignity and respect all of us deserve.” In 2018, Duckworth authored a first-of-its kind law requiring air carriers to disclose the number of mobility devices they damage, break or lose monthly. Since the DOT began implementing the Duckworth law, it found that American Airlines … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:55:29Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-durbin-join-congressional-democrats-in-filing-amicus-brief-urging-ninth-circuit-court-to-affirm-that-emtala-requires-hospitals-to-provide-emergency-stabilizing-care-including-abortion-care-preempting-idahos-dacronian-abortion-ban Duckworth, Durbin Join Congressional Democrats in Filing Amicus Brief Urging Ninth Circuit Court to Affirm that EMTALA Requires Hospitals to Provide Emergency Stabilizing Care, Including Abortion Care, Preempting Idaho's Dacronian Abortion Ban 2024-10-22 2024 2024-10 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper After the Supreme Court dismissed the case, returning it to the Ninth Circuit Court, 259 Members of Congress ask the Ninth Circuit to affirm district court decision that under EMTALA, hospitals participating in Medicare must provide emergency stabilizing treatment to patients, including abortion care when necessary [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, joined more than 250 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 … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:55:29Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-applications-closing-soon-for-class-of-2029-service-academy-nominations Duckworth Applications Closing Soon for Class of 2029 Service Academy Nominations 2024-10-18 2024 2024-10 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [SPRINGFIELD, IL] – Combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), today announced that her office is accepting applications from high school students seeking a Congressional nomination to a United States Military Service Academy for the Class of 2029 through Friday, November 1. Each year Duckworth, along with a nomination committee, selects from the applicants a group of outstanding Illinois students to receive Congressional nominations to attend West Point, the Air Force Academy, the Naval Academy or the Merchant Marine Academy. Information on how to complete Duckworth’s academy nomination application can be found here. “It takes a special kind of young person to succeed at a U.S. Military Service Academy,” said Duckworth. “The rigorous nomination process demands outstanding test scores, a high GPA and a commitment to community service. I encourage all interested Illinois students to apply for a nomination through my website, and I applaud their desire to serve our country.” Service academies allow young people to serve their country while receiving a full four-year scholarship. Upon acceptance of an appointment into an Academy, a student commits to five years of active duty service after graduation. U.S. citizens between the ages of 17 and 23 may receive appointment from one of the four service academies. In order to be considered, a student must get a formal nomination from their Member of Congress, Senator or the Vice President. Students must apply directly to the Military Service Academy and elected official of their choice in order to be considered. A nomination does not guarantee an offer of appointment. Interested students should follow the instructions on Senator Duckworth’s website. Applications for the Class of 2029 are due Friday, November 1. -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:55:29Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-durbin-quigley-announce-more-than-81-million-in-additional-federal-funding-for-the-create-program Duckworth, Durbin, Quigley Announce More than $81 Million in Additional Federal Funding for the CREATE Program 2024-10-18 2024 2024-10 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [CHICAGO, IL] - U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Representative Mike Quigley (D-IL-05) today announced $81,301,065 in federal funding through the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) INFRA (Nationally Significant Multimodal Freight & Highway Projects) Program for the Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency (CREATE) Program, which aims to reduce traffic delays, increase rail junction safety, and improve mobility throughout Chicago. DOT’s INFRA Grant Program provides federal funding for large projects of regional significance and is funded through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act that the lawmakers worked to pass in 2021. Last month, Durbin, Duckworth, and Quigley announced $209 million in federal funding for the CREATE Program through DOT’s Mega Grant Program, bringing the total with today’s announced funding to $291,179,049. “Investing in our transportation infrastructure is about growing our economy and making it easier, faster, safer and more efficient so people and goods can get where they need to go,” Duckworth said. “This significant federal investment in the CREATE Program—which Senator Durbin, members of the Illinois Delegation and I have been championing for years—will help us modernize our rail system for all Chicagoans while supporting good-paying South Side jobs and strengthening our region’s economy.” “Today’s additional funding announcement is a major investment in the future of our transportation infrastructure. Chicagoans will be better connected because of the CREATE Program, which will improve the safety and quality of our rail system and roadways,” said Durbin. “Senator Duckworth, members of the Illinois Congressional Delegation, and I have long supported these investments, and I’m glad to see these federal dollars go toward improving safety and alleviating congestion in a region that desperately needs it.” "The CREATE Program is fundamentally changing rail operations in Chicago for both commuters and … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:55:29Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-foster-reinforce-support-for-ivf-providers-and-families Duckworth, Foster Reinforce Support for IVF Providers and Families 2024-10-17 2024 2024-10 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [NAPERVILLE, IL] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and U.S. Congressman Bill Foster (D-IL-11) today hosted a discussion with IVF providers, advocates and families on the challenges they face with IVF access at risk across the country after Donald Trump’s Supreme Court Justices overturned Roe v. Wade. Duckworth and Foster were joined by Dr. Amanda Schwartz of the Reproductive Medicine Institute, Dr. Megan Sax of Fertility Centers of Illinois and the Beck Family, a Crystal Lake-based family who used assisted reproductive technology to conceive their two children. Photos from today’s event are available on the Senator’s website. “After a decade of struggling with infertility, I was only able to have my two beautiful girls through the miracle of IVF,” Duckworth said. I’m grateful I had access to IVF to become a mom when I wanted to become a mom but now, thanks to Donald Trump, that right to reproductive care is at risk for millions of women across this country. And while so many Republicans continue to claim to support families and IVF, their actions and their votes prove that the American people can’t take them at their word.” “I was proud to join Senator Duckworth in Naperville today to reinforce our commitment to protecting access to reproductive treatments like IVF,” said Foster. “Far-right politicians and judges have no business meddling in how Americans choose to start and grow their families. I will continue working with my colleagues in Congress to ensure that every woman – no matter what state she lives in – has access to IVF and all forms of reproductive health care.” Duckworth has been the leader in Congress on protecting access to IVF. Duckworth’s Right to IVF Act, comprehensive legislation she led with U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA) and Cory Booker (D-NJ), would establish a right to IVF and other assisted reproductive technology (ART), expand access for hopeful parents, Veterans and federal employees and help lower the costs of IVF for middle class families across the country. Despite publicly … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:55:29Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-visits-chicago-state-university-to-discuss-efforts-to-support-student-parents Duckworth Visits Chicago State University to Discuss Efforts to Support Student Parents 2024-10-17 2024 2024-10 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [CHICAGO, IL] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today visited Chicago State University (CSU) to tour their campus child care center and meet with Chicago Alderwoman Michelle Harris, Illinois State Representative Marcus Evans Jr. (IL-HD-33), CSU leadership and parents. Last month, Duckworth reintroduced her Child Care Access Means Parents in Schools (CCAMPIS) Reauthorization Act, legislation which builds on her previous efforts to help increase access to on-campus child care for the more than 4 million parenting students currently enrolled in postsecondary education programs. Duckworth and University leadership also discussed funding for CSU, including $800,000 in Congressionally Directed Spending Duckworth secured for the University. Photos from today’s visit are available on the Senator’s website. “As college costs continue to skyrocket, we can't simply stay on the sidelines as it gets even harder for parenting students to afford higher education,” said Duckworth. “The more than 4 million college students who are also raising children already have enough to worry about—child care should not be one of them. It was great to visit Chicago State today and see the University’s efforts to support its students to help them provide a better, stronger future for their families.” The CCAMPIS Reauthorization Act would help increase the rate of parenting students attending postsecondary education by reauthorizing and fully funding the only federal program that exclusively supports on-campus child care services and ensure the U.S. Department of Education is meeting the needs of parenting students. Duckworth originally introduced this legislation when she was in the U.S. House of Representatives. In Fiscal Year 2023, Duckworth secured $800,000 in federal funding through a Congressionally Directed Spending Request for Chicago State University. This federal investment supported redesigning the CSU curriculum and increasing access to the internet by improving and expanding computer facilities. In August, Duckworth and U.S… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:55:29Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-durbin-members-of-illinois-delegation-announce-158-million-in-federal-funding-for-chicago-transit-authority-improvements Duckworth, Durbin, Members of Illinois Delegation Announce $15.8 Million in Federal Funding for Chicago Transit Authority Improvements 2024-10-15 2024 2024-10 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [CHICAGO, IL] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), U.S. Representatives Jesus “Chuy” García (D-IL-04), Mike Quigley (D-IL-05) and Danny Davis (D-IL-07) today announced that the Illinois Department of Transportation will receive $15,805,600 in federal funding from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) for improvements to the Chicago Transit Authority’s (CTA) Forest Park Branch. This track modernization project will lead to increased service reliability, speed, and environmental resiliency. “No matter their zip code, Chicagoans deserve efficient public transit to get to school, get to work and more easily move throughout the city,” Duckworth said. “I’m proud to see today’s funding go toward modernizing the CTA’s Forest Park operations, including increasing service reliability, speed and protecting against the effects of climate change. I’ll keep working with Senator Durbin and the Illinois delegation to ensure that our communities are receiving the much-needed federal resources they deserve.” “Robust and reliable public transit is crucial for Chicagoans,” said Durbin. “Today’s announced funding will allow for an efficient travel alternative in an area where congestion makes getting around more difficult. I’ll keep working with Senator Duckworth and members of the Illinois Delegation to do all that we can to help improve transit development and access for all Chicagoans.” “When public transportation is unreliable or inefficient, it disrupts the daily lives of countless Chicagoans. We have the solutions to keep things moving, and now it’s time to put them into practice. Today's funding is a positive development. It will assist us in transforming an area burdened by congestion and delays and finally establish an environment that allows commuters to reach their destinations safely and on time,” said Rep. Quigley. "Investing in our public transit infrastructure is crucial to ensuring that Chicago remains a vibrant, accessible city for all its residents. This fund… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:55:29Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-honors-indigenous-peoples-day-with-visit-to-mitchell-museum-of-the-american-indian Duckworth Honors Indigenous Peoples’ Day with Visit to Mitchell Museum of the American Indian 2024-10-14 2024 2024-10 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [EVANSTON, IL] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today visited the Mitchell Museum of the American Indian to honor Indigenous Peoples’ Day. Duckworth met with the museum’s Executive Director Kim Vigue, Board President Susan Kelsey and community leaders and members to discuss how she can help advocate for the Indigenous community at the federal level, as well as toured the museum that honors and highlights the history and culture of Indigenous peoples and communities. Photos from today’s visit are available on the Senator’s website. “On Indigenous Peoples’ Day, we honor and celebrate the Indigenous communities who have long contributed to our country as we continue to reckon with our nation’s horrific legacy of colonization,” Duckworth said. “I was pleased to visit and meet with the leaders of the Mitchell Museum to learn more about their mission to preserve the rich history of Indigenous peoples and pass on the culture and traditions to the next generation.” The Mitchell Museum of the American Indian is one of a few museums across the country that focuses exclusively on the histories, cultures, traditions and arts of Indigenous people from the United States and Canada. Since its founding in 1977, the museum has become a cherished resource and education center committed to promoting a greater understanding of Indigenous peoples and serving as a space to celebrate their diverse cultures, rich histories and present-day experiences and contributions. -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:55:29Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/during-domestic-violence-awareness-month-duckworth-hosts-domestic-violence-listening-session During Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Duckworth Hosts Domestic Violence Listening Session 2024-10-14 2024 2024-10 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [CHICAGO, IL] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today hosted a listening session with local domestic violence support organizations to learn more about the impact domestic violence has in communities across Illinois and the solutions to support, uplift and protect survivors while preventing further violence. Today’s roundtable was led by Amanda Pyron, President and CEO of The Network: Advocating Against Domestic Violence. “During Domestic Violence Awareness Month and every day, we reaffirm our commitment to protecting and supporting all survivors of abuse,” Duckworth said. “Today, I was proud be a part of such an important conversation about preventing domestic violence in our communities and how we can lift up survivors’ voices. I will continue to work with The Network and our local leaders to provide essential life-saving support and tools so that everyone has the knowledge to help domestic violence victims.” “We were grateful to welcome Senator Duckworth to The Network today to discuss the importance of community outreach in ending gender-based violence,” Pyron said. “Through congressionally directed funds from Senator Duckworth, the Network has expanded the reach of the Illinois Domestic Violence Hotline. The SALONS Act will further enhance the capacity for domestic violence service providers across the state to provide education and training to trusted salon professionals.” In Fiscal Year 2023, Duckworth secured $550,000 in federal funding through a Congressionally Directed Spending Request for The Network. This federal investment supported an essential expansion of the Illinois Domestic Violence Hotline. Duckworth also introduced the bipartisan Supporting the Abused by Learning Options to Navigate Survivor (SALONS) Stories Act, legislation to increase already-established grants to states that require beauty professionals and cosmetologists to undergo free and easily accessible domestic violence awareness training in order to help ensure more of these individuals are trained to successfully navigate c… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:55:29Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-reacts-to-new-federal-report-detailing-faas-boeing-oversight-failures Duckworth Reacts to New Federal Report Detailing FAA’s Boeing Oversight Failures 2024-10-11 2024 2024-10 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] — Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—Chair of the Senate’s Aviation Safety Subcommittee—issued the following statement after the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Office of Inspector General (OIG) released its new comprehensive audit of the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) oversight of Boeing 737 and 787 aircraft production, which revealed weaknesses and failures in FAA’s oversight processes and systems that limit its ability to identify and resolve Boeing production issues. “From seeking to recreate the type of permissive policies that allowed Boeing to sell flawed aircraft that later crashed and killed hundreds to classifying obviously systemic safety concerns as merely ‘isolated’ issues, this report’s findings underscore my longstanding belief that FAA is not effectively holding Boeing accountable and ensuring it meets production safety standards and requirements,” said Senator Duckworth. “As the federal agency responsible for ensuring Boeing improves its safety culture and making sure every Boeing plane that leaves the factory fully meets approved standards that are in place to keep passengers safe, FAA clearly has work to do to better protect the flying public and I will continue my close Congressional oversight of those efforts.” Duckworth has long pushed for improved federal oversight of Boeing. In June, she urged FAA Administrator Whitaker to make sure the FAA requires transparency and accountability as it oversees Boeing’s Safety and Quality Plan. In April, Duckworth implored FAA to scrutinize Boeing’s bad behavior and use its civil enforcement authority more often, when appropriate, and also called on the agency to review Boeing’s disturbing pattern of failing to disclose critical safety information about 737 MAX planes to pilots. In January, Duckworth called on FAA to reject a petition by Boeing for a safety exemption to allow the 737 MAX 7 to be certified to fly despite having another known safety defect that has not yet been fixed. The Senator subsequently met wi… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:55:29Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-meets-with-thomson-union-members-prison-leadership-to-reinforce-workforce-and-facility-support Duckworth Meets with Thomson Union Members, Prison Leadership to Reinforce Workforce and Facility Support 2024-10-10 2024 2024-10 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [THOMSON, IL] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today visited Federal Correctional Institution (FCI) Thomson to meet with both members and leaders from AFGE Local 4070 and FCI Thomson leadership to discuss federal support for facility staffing needs and the conditions and support for current staff. Thomson recently transitioned from a Special Management Unit (SMU) security to a low-security federal prison. “It is critical that FCI Thomson has the resources it needs to fulfill its mission, and that includes being able to support a strong and stable workforce,” said Duckworth. “Today, we had a productive conversation with Thomson and AFGE Local 4070 leadership about ongoing staffing and retention efforts, and I’ll continue to work closely with federal leaders to support the dedicated workforce at Thomson.” In 2021, Duckworth, along with Judiciary Chair Senator Durbin (D-IL) and former U.S. Representative Cheri Bustos (D-IL-17), secured a retention pay bonus for law enforcement officers at Thomson. Earlier this year, Duckworth and Durbin sent a letter to Bureau of Prisons (BOP) Director Peters to request that BOP reinstates and maintains Thomson’s 25 percent incentive bonus. -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:55:29Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-sorensen-visit-rock-island-arsenal-to-reinforce-support-for-local-servicemembers Duckworth, Sorensen Visit Rock Island Arsenal to Reinforce Support for Local Servicemembers 2024-10-10 2024 2024-10 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [ROCK ISLAND, IL] – Combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), a member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC), and U.S. Representative Eric Sorensen (D-IL-17) today visited Rock Island Arsenal to discuss current manufacturing operations and how Congress can continue to support the Arsenal. Duckworth and Sorensen met Arsenal Leadership, including LTG Mark Landes, Commanding General, First Army, BG John “Brad” Hinson, Army Sustainment Command and COL William "Joe" Parker, III, Garrison Commander, to tour the Arsenal’s Joint Manufacturing and Technology Center and learn about their metal manufacturing operations. “Rock Island Arsenal plays an important role in the strength of both our national security and the Quad Cities community,” Duckworth said. “I’m glad to have the opportunity to see how the Arsenal’s expertise and resources are helping protect our nation and keep the region’s economy strong. I’ll keep working with Congressman Sorensen to ensure the men and women of Rock Island Arsenal have the support they need and that the Arsenal can succeed for years to come.” “The Rock Island Arsenal, and the brave men and women that work there, help make the Quad Cities community such a special place to live in,” Sorensen said. “I was honored to join Senator Duckworth and the Arsenal’s leadership in touring the facility and talking about ways we can work together to create more jobs and strengthen its operations. The Arsenal has always been an important part of how we keep our nation safe, and I will always work hard with Senator Duckworth to bring resources from Washington back home to support the Arsenal’s work.” As a member of SASC, Duckworth has helped secure critical resources for Rock Island Arsenal and the surrounding communities through the yearly National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). In this year’s Senate-passed NDAA, Duckworth secured provisions to allow the Department of Defense to make grants to local communities to improve infrastructure around military bases that benefit lo… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:55:29Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-leaders-commemorate-1908-race-riot-national-monument-designation Duckworth, Leaders Commemorate 1908 Race Riot National Monument Designation 2024-10-09 2024 2024-10 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [SPRINGFIELD, IL] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today joined local and federal leaders in commemorating the designation of the 1908 Springfield Race Riot site as a national monument. Duckworth has worked for years to secure national monument recognition for the site, which the Biden-Harris Administration designated in August. The 1908 Springfield Race Riot was a pivotal event in American history that spurred the creation of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP). With less than a quarter of National Parks devoted to recognizing the histories of diverse peoples and cultures, designating this site as a national monument also helps guarantee that public lands reflect the diversity of our country. Photos from today’s event are available on the Senator’s website. “The 1908 Race Riots and the history that happened here deserve to be commemorated,” said Duckworth. “And now, I’m proud it will be, thanks to President Biden’s action to designate this site as a national monument—an action which not only makes sure the painful lessons learned here will not be lost for generations to come, but also helps ensure our national parks better reflect our nation’s people and stories.” Duckworth was joined today by local and national leaders including U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), U.S. Representative Nikki Budzinski (D-IL-13), White House Council on Environmental Quality Chair Brenda Mallory, U.S. Department of the Interior Assistant Secretary for Fish and Wildlife and Parks Shannon Estenoz, Illinois Lieutenant Governor Julianna Stratton and more. 116 years ago, a violent mob of white residents murdered at least six Black Americans, burned down Black homes and businesses and attacked hundreds of residents for no other reason than the color of their skin. Duckworth began calling for national monument recognition in 2018, first leading the Springfield 1908 Race Riot National Monument Act, with U.S Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), in 2019 and again in 2021. Last year the… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:55:29Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-durbin-applaud-finalization-of-new-lead-and-copper-rule-improvements-announcement-of-over-75-million-in-new-funding-to-help-remove-lead-pipes-in-illinois Duckworth, Durbin Applaud Finalization of New Lead and Copper Rule Improvements, Announcement of Over $75 Million in New Funding to Help Remove Lead Pipes in Illinois 2024-10-08 2024 2024-10 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—co-founder of the U.S. Senate Lead Task Force and the U.S. Senate Environmental Justice Caucus—and U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today lauded the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) decision to finalize the Biden Administration’s proposed Lead and Copper Rule Improvements (LCRI), which would lower the lead action level to better protect human health and require water systems to replace old and deteriorating lead pipes within a decade. In addition to the LCRI, EPA also announced that Illinois will receive $75,558,000 in newly available drinking water infrastructure funding through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (BIL) to support lead-related activities, including lead pipe replacement projects. The finalized rule comes ahead of the October 16th finalization deadline to not only help ensure these important improvements are implemented as quickly as possible, but also prevent water systems from being forced to temporarily comply with the prior rule proposed by the Trump Administration—also known as the Lead and Copper Rule Revisions (LCRR)—which would put public health at risk. “Every American, no matter their zip-code, deserves access to safe drinking water,” said Senator Duckworth. “We’ve been working hard in Congress to achieve our goal of removing every lead pipe in America over the next decade, and this historic rule from the Biden Administration and $75 million in new funding for Illinois to replace lead pipes will help us make it a reality while preventing Trump-era policies that would harm human health from going into effect. This is a win-win for all Americans.” “The newly finalized Lead and Copper Rule Improvements is nothing short of historic. For decades, we have understood the severe risks of lead exposure, which have disproportionally harmed low-income families and communities of color. Today, EPA has made a commitment to Americans to replace all lead pipes over the next ten years because everyone deserves to have safe, cle… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:55:29Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-statement-on-one-year-anniversary-of-hamass-horrific-october-7th-attacks Duckworth Statement on One-Year Anniversary of Hamas’s Horrific October 7th Attacks 2024-10-07 2024 2024-10 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper As conflict in the region escalates, Duckworth reiterates call for permanent mutual ceasefire that secures release of hostages and alleviates suffering of innocent civilians [CHICAGO, IL] – U.S. Senator and combat Veteran Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), who serves on the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations and Armed Services Committees, issued the following statement recognizing the one-year anniversary of Hamas’s terror attacks against Israel on October 7th, 2023: “One year ago, Hamas committed the single deadliest atrocity against Jews since the Holocaust, killing nearly 1,200 innocents and taking hundreds more hostage—nearly 100 of whom remain in captivity to this day. My thoughts are with them, and with their loved ones, today and every day. “My heart breaks for those who lost loved ones during the attacks, for the families of tens of thousands of innocent Palestinian civilians killed in the days since, for those who suffered the unique torture of having their hopes of ever seeing their captive loved ones again so heartlessly dashed—like the parents of Hersh Goldberg-Polin—and for the millions in Gaza who are still suffering through unimaginable, inhumane conditions. “As we reflect on the tragedies of the last year—and as tensions in the region rise—the urgent need for a permanent, mutual ceasefire that ends this devastating war is as critical as it’s ever been. For my part, I will do everything in my power to encourage de-escalation that ultimately brings about a two-state future that strengthens the safety of Israel, eliminates the threat posed by Hamas and ends the prolonged and continuing suffering of innocent Palestinians.” Since October 7th, 2023, Duckworth has worked with her Senate colleagues to end the war in Gaza and ensure the safe return of hostages. A comprehensive account of the Senator’s efforts can be found on her website. -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:55:29Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-durbin-announce-more-than-2-billion-in-federal-funding-to-improve-highway-infrastructure-across-illinois Duckworth, Durbin Announce More Than $2 Billion in Federal Funding to Improve Highway Infrastructure Across Illinois 2024-10-04 2024 2024-10 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today announced $2,327,751,005 in total formula funding from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) to build and maintain roads, bridges and tunnels that will improve efficiency, reduce congestion, improve resiliency against climate change and modernize key infrastructure of the Illinois highway system. This funding was made possible through the Biden-Harris Administration’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. “Investing in our transportation infrastructure is about more than just improving our roads and bridges, it’s about growing our economy and making getting to work, school and throughout our communities faster, safer and more efficient,” Duckworth said. “I’m proud to see this federal funding coming to our state today for critical upgrades to Illinois’s highway network. I will continue to work alongside Senator Durbin to ensure that our communities are receiving the much-needed federal resources they deserve.” “Today’s funding is a major investment in the future of Illinois’ transportation. Our state’s communities will be better connected because of these infrastructure projects that support Illinois’ rail industry, highways, electric vehicle network, and roads,” said Durbin. “Senator Duckworth and I will continue working to ensure our state has the federal resources to improve and expand Illinois’ infrastructure.” Programs providing FHWA formula funding to Illinois include: National Highway Performance Program: $1,060,692,724 Surface Transportation Block Grant Program: $516,012,677 Highway Safety Improvement Program: $109,009,408 Railway-Highway Crossings Program: $11,270,541 Congestion Mitigation & Air Quality Improvement Program: $127,299,951 Metropolitan Planning: $23,887,494 National Highway Freight Program: $52,324,691 Carbon Reduction Program: $46,011,130 PROTECT Formula Program: $52,317,952 Bridge Formula Program: $297,268,565 National Electric Vehic… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:55:29Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-durbin-announce-more-than-36-million-to-help-address-opioid-crisis-in-illinois Duckworth, Durbin Announce More Than $36 Million to Help Address Opioid Crisis in Illinois 2024-10-03 2024 2024-10 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today announced $36,714,994 in federal funding for the Illinois Department of Human Services to help support treatment and prevention services for substance and opioid use disorders and overdoses. This funding comes through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) as a part of their State Opioid Response grants program. “The opioid epidemic has taken far too many lives, and resolving this crisis requires a comprehensive effort from officials at every level of government and from local organizations,” Duckworth said. “I will continue working with Senator Durbin to ensure those treating and preventing opioid addiction have the resources they need to serve all Illinoisans.” “As the opioid epidemic continues to ravage our state, we need prevention, treatment, and recovery services to break the cycle of addiction,” said Durbin. “This federal funding will give our state crucial resources for individuals and families who need it the most, and I hope this investment will put our communities on the road to recovery.” Since their inception in 2018, State and Tribal Opioid Response grants have enabled states, territories and tribal entities to fund treatment and recovery services for people across the country. Awards also support overdose prevention and response, with almost 2.7 million naloxone kits distributed and more than 92,000 reported overdose reversals. A report to Congress detailing such efforts can be found here. This particular grant funding is a critical investment in President Biden’s Unity Agenda for the Nation and the HHS Overdose Prevention Strategy. -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:55:29Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-joins-wyden-and-hassan-in-introducing-legislation-to-help-stop-labor-and-delivery-unit-closures-in-rural-and-underserved-communities Duckworth Joins Wyden and Hassan in Introducing Legislation to Help Stop Labor and Delivery Unit Closures in Rural and Underserved Communities 2024-09-30 2024 2024-09 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) joined U.S. Senators Ron Wyden (D-OR) and Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH), along with 15 other Senate Democrats in introducing the Keep Obstetrics Local Act (KOLA) to help address the rising trend of rural hospitals and hospitals in underserved areas closing their labor and delivery units with significant consequences for expectant parents, families and their local communities. This legislation would help provide additional resources through Medicaid funding and make sure that hospitals are required to use them to invest in the maternal healthcare needs of the local communities they serve. “It is absolutely unconscionable that hundreds of expectant and new moms in maternity deserts are left without access to the care they need,” Duckworth said. “Every mother, no matter their zip code, deserves access to high-quality maternal health care. I’m proud to join Senators Wyden and Hassan and my Senate colleagues in introducing this critical legislation that would help make sure that rural hospitals have the resources needed to support mothers throughout their pregnancy and beyond.” “Too many rural communities have become maternity deserts, leaving families without access to care. It’s time we reverse this trend and offer some stability to rural hospitals so they can keep their labor and delivery ward doors open,” Wyden said. “This legislation will give rural hospitals the means to continue serving their communities, and ensures that large hospital chains can’t exploit the funds for profit.” “No matter where they live, expectant moms deserve access to high-quality care to protect their health and the health of their babies,” Hassan said. “As more maternity wards in rural areas of New Hampshire and in states across the country close, this important legislation will help give rural hospitals the resources that they need to support labor and delivery units and provide the high-quality care that women deserve, while also making it easier for more women to get postpartu… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:46:43Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-durbin-laud-scott-airforce-bases-selection-as-finalist-for-new-kc-46a-aircraft-main-operating-base Duckworth, Durbin Laud Scott Airforce Base’s Selection As Finalist for New KC-46A Aircraft Main Operating Base 2024-09-28 2024 2024-09 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper Scott’s selection as Main Operating Base could safeguard 347 Metro East Air National Guard (ANG) positions, while creating 94 new ANG positions and helping ensure the future of the base [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today expressed their support for Scott Air Force Base’s 126th Air Refueling Wing’s bid to become a KC-46A’s main operating base (MOB) after the Air Force announced Scott was selected as a finalist for the role. The KC-46A aircraft is the first phase in modernizing the U.S. Air Force's aging tanker fleet and selecting Scott would protect the 347 ANG positions currently overseeing the KC-135 aircrafts while adding 94 new ANG positions to support the incoming KC-46A’s— overall expanding the Metro East’s local economy as well as helping to ensure the continued success of the Base. “Scott Air Force Base (AFB) is an important driver of our state’s economy, a key piece to our country’s national security and a critical support network for the individuals who serve, along with their families,” Duckworth said. “I’m proud to see U.S. Air Force leadership recognize the 126th Air Refueling Wing as one of the top prospective basing sites for the new KC-46A aircraft. The work done at Scott AFB is something all Illinoisans can be proud of, I hope the Air Force ultimately selects it for this MOB and I will continue to push for the support and resources that Scott AFB deserves.” “The airmen and women at Scott Air Force Base have shown time and time again that they are up to any task put before them. The 126th Air Refueling Wing has proven itself to be a strong candidate for a new set of KC-46 aircraft, and I'm pleased that U.S. Air Force leadership has recognized that with its recent selection of a shortlist,” said Durbin. “I believe that no base is better equipped to receive new aircraft than Scott Air Force Base and look forward to the Air Force giving them full and fair consideration as it makes a final decision in the… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:46:43Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-durbin-announce-more-than-200k-in-federal-funding-for-arts-programming-in-illinois Duckworth, Durbin Announce More Than $200K in Federal Funding for Arts Programming in Illinois 2024-09-27 2024 2024-09 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [CHICAGO, IL] — U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today announced $222,400 in federal funding from the National Endowment for the Arts through the ArtsHERE grant program for two Illinois organizations. Free Spirit Media, which works with young creators primarily from the West and South sides of Chicago, will receive $110,000 for their Reimagining Evaluation project to create new evaluation tools rooted in storytelling, reflection, social justice and equity. Free Spirit Media focuses on community-building, skill-sharing and career and education pathways. The Urbana-Champaign Independent Media Center (UCIMC) will receive $112,400 to support a five-year strategic planning process, including cultural strategy training and a study series for local artists and community leaders. Founded in 2001, UCIMC has transformed a historic post office into a community media and arts center, supporting various community programs and financially sponsoring more than 60 organizations. “Arts like theater, music and design are some of the building blocks of a community’s culture,” Duckworth said. “I'm glad this federal support will help allow arts programs across Illinois to continue fostering, sharing and promoting connection and creativity in their communities.” “The arts have not only played a major role in our state’s economy, but they have made substantial contributions to our communities, making these federal investments all the more important,” said Durbin. “Today’s announced funding will help develop young artists and foster creativity and connection.” -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:46:43Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/bipartisan-duckworth-daines-hirono-bill-to-better-protect-parents-traveling-with-breast-milk-passes-senate Bipartisan Duckworth-Daines-Hirono Bill to Better Protect Parents Traveling with Breast Milk Passes Senate 2024-09-26 2024 2024-09 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Bipartisan legislation led by U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) to make it easier for parents to safely embark on air travel with breast milk and breastfeeding supplies unanimously passed the U.S. Senate this week. The Senator’s Bottles and Breastfeeding Equipment Screening (BABES) Enhancement Act, co-led by U.S. Senators Steve Daines (R-MT) and Mazie K. Hirono (D-HI), would require the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to clarify and regularly update guidance on handling breast milk and breastfeeding supplies, baby formula and other related products in consultation with leading maternal health groups. Congresswoman Katie Porter (D-CA-47) is the lead sponsor of bipartisan companion legislation in the U.S. House of Representatives. “This is an important vote for traveling moms everywhere after too many of them have been mistreated and wrongfully denied access to their breast milk and the breastfeeding equipment that they need,” said Senator Duckworth. “I hope the House swiftly passes our bill so we can finally move closer to preventing these incidents from ever happening again—because all parents should be able to travel through airports with the respect and dignity they deserve.” “Being a mom is a tough job, and supporting families is one of my top priorities. I’m glad to see the bipartisan BABES Enhancement Act pass the Senate, which will streamline TSA interactions for mothers transporting breastmilk, making it easier and safer for them to travel while breastfeeding,” said Senator Daines. “Thousands of families with young children travel by air every day, so it is critical that the TSA has updated and clear guidance on how to handle breast milk, baby formula, and other related products during their screening process,” said Senator Hirono. “The BABES Act will help ensure that families can travel without fear of being harassed or humiliated simply for traveling with the supplies they need to keep their babies fed. This legislation will help preserve the health, safety, and dig… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:46:43Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-joins-tillis-and-blumenthal-in-introducing-bipartisan-legislation-to-help-eliminate-barriers-to-justice-for-camp-lejeune-victims Duckworth Joins Tillis and Blumenthal in Introducing Bipartisan Legislation to Help Eliminate Barriers to Justice for Camp Lejeune Victims 2024-09-26 2024 2024-09 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—a member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee and combat Veteran who served 23 years in the Reserve Forces—joined U.S. Senators Thom Tillis (R-NC) and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT) in introducing the Ensuring Justice for Camp Lejeune Victims Act. This bipartisan legislation would help improve access to health care and benefits for individuals exposed to toxic chemicals at Camp Lejeune by making technical corrections to the original Camp Lejeune Justice Act, clarifying the right to jury trials and the appropriate causation standard, capping attorneys’ fees and expanding jurisdiction to alleviate the backlog of toxic water claims. These corrections would help ensure that Veterans and other victims have all the rights and opportunities for relief that Congress had originally intended. “After selflessly answering the call to serve our nation, too many brave servicemembers were exposed to toxic chemicals from Camp Lejeune’s drinking water—but could not receive the justice and care they deserve due to unnecessary roadblocks,” said Senator Duckworth. “This bipartisan legislation would help make it easier for impacted servicemembers and Veterans to access the care and benefits they’ve earned through their service. It’s the least we could do after all they sacrifice for us.” “Currently, veterans and other victims exposed to contaminated water at Camp Lejeune are running into roadblocks that are denying them their day in court before a jury for the often-crippling and deadly medical conditions they have suffered,” said Senator Tillis. “Since coming to office, I have worked alongside those who lived and worked at Camp Lejeune that were unknowingly exposed to harmful chemicals to finally give them the health care and benefits they deserve. I am proud to introduce this legislation with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to bring justice for victims and provide a path forward for justice after decades of delay.” “Victims of Camp Lejeune’s contaminated water d… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:46:43Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-applauds-biden-harris-administrations-expansion-of-ivf-coverage-for-federal-employees Duckworth Applauds Biden-Harris Administration’s Expansion of IVF Coverage for Federal Employees 2024-09-25 2024 2024-09 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper For years, the Senator has led the charge to ensure IVF treatment is covered for more Americans Duckworth’s Right to IVF Act, which Republicans blocked just last week, would enshrine this expansion in law [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—author of the Right to IVF Act and the bipartisan Family Building FEHB Fairness Act—applauded the Biden-Harris Administration’s announcement that the Federal Employee Health Benefits (FEHB) Program will, for the first time ever, offer multiple plans with comprehensive IVF coverage to the entire federal workforce and their families, no matter their zip code. The FEHB is the largest employer-sponsored group health insurance program in the world, covering more than 8 million employees, retirees, family members and others. “I applaud the Biden-Harris Administration for taking this decisive action that I’ve called for to ensure all federal employees have access to IVF coverage—because everyone deserves the ability to access the fertility treatment they need to build their families, no matter where they live. “While this is welcome news, any future President could reverse this decision—so it’s critical we permanently protect and expand access to IVF nationwide and ensure no patient or doctor is criminalized simply for trying to start or grow their family. Last week, the Senate had the opportunity to do just that. But when it came time for Senate Republicans to put their votes where their mouths are and help pass my Right to IVF Act, the same Republicans claiming to ‘support IVF’ blocked it and made sure this expansion—and the other common sense IVF protections in the bill—would not be enshrined in federal law. “Struggling with infertility is painful enough without the GOP’s hypocrisy, and I won’t stop working until every American in every state can access IVF and experience the joys of parenthood if, when and how they want to.” In April, Senator Duckworth—along with U.S. Representative Gerry Connolly (D-VA-11)—led 176 of their colleagues in urging OP… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:46:43Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-booker-blunt-rochester-tlaib-dingell-lee-call-for-expedited-review-and-implementation-of-biden-administrations-proposed-strengthening-of-the-lead-and-copper-rule Duckworth, Booker, Blunt Rochester, Tlaib, Dingell, Lee Call for Expedited Review and Implementation of Biden Administration’s Proposed Strengthening of the Lead and Copper Rule 2024-09-25 2024 2024-09 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Today, U.S. Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and Cory Booker (D-NJ)—co-founders of the new U.S. Senate Lead Task Force and the U.S. Senate Environmental Justice Caucus—along with U.S. Representatives Lisa Blunt Rochester (D-DE-AL), Rashida Tlaib (D-MI-12), Debbie Dingell (D-MI-06) and Barbara Lee (D-CA-12) are calling on the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to expedite its review of the Biden Administration’s proposed Lead and Copper Rule Improvements (LCRI), which would lower the lead action level to better protect human health and require water systems to replace old and deteriorating lead pipes within a decade. The lawmakers’ bicameral letter underscores the importance of OMB completing its review ahead of the October 16th finalization deadline to not only help ensure these important improvements are implemented as quickly as possible, but also prevent water systems from being forced to temporarily comply with the prior rule proposed by the Trump Administration—also known as the Lead and Copper Rule Revisions (LCRR)—which would put public health at risk. Congresswomen Blunt Rochester, Tlaib and Dingell are co-founders and co-leads of the Get the Lead Out Caucus in the House. In the letter, the lawmakers outlined what’s at stake if the proposed LCRI is not finalized by October 16th: “…water systems and states will be required to start complying immediately with the deeply problematic LCRR. EPA concluded that temporary implementation of the LCRR rule from the prior administration will create bureaucratic complexity and confusion for regulated entities, waste scarce resources, result in widespread non-compliance and risk delaying or failing to realize the full benefits of the LCRI… In addition to the unnecessary potential confusion and complexity, the prior administration’s LCRR would put public health at risk by implementing inadequate policies that do not meaningfully address the lead contamination problems in communities across the country.” In addition to preventing wate… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:46:43Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-durbin-ramirez-underwood-celebrate-senate-passage-of-resolution-honoring-wadee-alfayoumi Duckworth, Durbin, Ramirez, Underwood Celebrate Senate Passage of Resolution Honoring Wadee Alfayoumi 2024-09-25 2024 2024-09 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), along with U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL), Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, and U.S. Representatives Delia Ramirez (D-IL-03) and Lauren Underwood (D-IL-14) celebrated Senate passage of a resolution honoring Wadee Alfayoumi, a six-year-old Palestinian American boy who was murdered as a victim of a hate crime in Plainfield, Illinois, on October 14, 2023. The lawmakers introduced the resolution earlier this year. “My heart breaks for the family of Wadee Alfayoumi, the precious, innocent 6-year-old who lost his life in an unimaginably cruel way, just because of his Palestinian Muslim identity,” Duckworth said. “This barbaric, cold-blooded murder was a chilling act of hate against the Palestinian community in Illinois, and we must do everything in our power to denounce and stop more hatred and violence. I’m proud our resolution passed honoring Wadee’s life and legacy. May his memory live on and serve as a reminder that we must be united in our shared goal of ending—rather than perpetuating—the needless suffering of innocent human beings.” “Wadee Alfayoumi and his mother were violently attacked for no apparent reason other than their religion and their ethnicity. Targeting someone based on their ethnicity or religion is wrong, and targeting an innocent child based on those characteristics is pure hatred. Nearly a year after Wadee Alfayoumi’s young life was taken too soon, our nation continues to mourn with his family,” said Durbin. “By passing this resolution, the United States Senate is honoring and remembering Wadee’s life and condemning all forms of hate.” “Yesterday’s Passage of S.Res. 847, honoring Wadee Alfayoumi, was an incredibly important step for humanity, for the movement against hate and bigotry, and for this moment,” said Ramirez. “We are 12 days from October 7th and 19 days from the anniversary of Wadee’s murder - both dates marked by children torn from their mothers. While time has passed, we continue to see an escalation … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:46:43Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-highlights-need-to-better-support-our-nations-military-and-veteran-caregivers-during-dole-foundation-annual-conference Duckworth Highlights Need to Better Support Our Nation’s Military and Veteran Caregivers During Dole Foundation Annual Conference 2024-09-25 2024 2024-09 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Yesterday, combat Veteran and U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—a member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC) who served in the Reserve Forces for 23 years before retiring at the rank of Lieutenant Colonel—joined the Elizabeth Dole Foundation’s 9th Annual National Convening to highlight the ways Congress can better address and respond to the challenges facing our nation’s more than 14 million military and Veteran caregivers. During a fireside chat at the conference this week, Senator Duckworth also discussed the many ways she’s working to support military families and Veterans to help ensure they have the high-quality care they deserve and have earned through their service. Full video of Senator Duckworth’s conversation at the event can be found on the Dole Foundation’s YouTube page. Photos from the event can be found on the Senator’s website. “I know from personal experience that we can’t afford for our troops who are in harm’s way to second guess what might happen to them or their family if they become wounded—it hurts our military readiness,” said Senator Duckworth. “Supporting caregivers and supporting the VA isn’t just about doing something humanitarian. It’s about the safety and security of our nation.” At this year’s annual conference, the Dole Foundation also unveiled a new RAND study that shows the number of military and Veteran caregivers in the U.S. has increased by nearly 9 million over the past decade, and that these caregivers’ health is at risk as they tend to Veterans and Wounded Warriors at home. The significant increase of military and Veteran caregivers across the country and the health risks associated with their work underscores the need for more support from federal programs to help caregivers do these critical jobs. Duckworth is a fierce advocate for our servicemembers, Veterans and their families. She recently helped secure $2.9 billion to support family caregivers of disabled Veterans and the expansion of the program to include pre-9/11 Veterans in … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:46:43Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-merkley-push-to-ensure-health-insurers-cover-and-provide-lactation-care-for-pregnant-and-nursing-parents Duckworth, Merkley Push to Ensure Health Insurers Cover and Provide Lactation Care for Pregnant and Nursing Parents 2024-09-25 2024 2024-09 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper Under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, health insurance plans are required to cover lactation services—but many still fail to comply [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Today, U.S. Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and Jeff Merkley (D-OR) called on the U.S. Department of Labor’s (DOL) Employee Benefits and Security Administration (EBSA) to issue strong recommended guidance for private health insurance plans and insurers to comply with federal law by covering in-person lactation support, supplies and counseling for pregnant and nursing parents across the country. Most health plans are required to cover lactation services under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA). The Senators’ letter expresses concerns that many still fail to comply with federal law, making it harder for pregnant and nursing parents to access quality lactation care. In their letter, the Senators wrote: “Ensuring that new mothers and the more than 10,000 babies born each day in the United States receive critical preventive care, including comprehensive lactation care, is one of our top priorities… We respectfully request that the Department of Labor’s (DOL) Employee Benefits and Security Administration (EBSA) utilize its existing authority to issue strong, recommended guidance for the legally required coverage of in-person lactation support, supplies and counseling from trained providers for pregnant and nursing parents across the country, as outlined in the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA).” The Senators continued: “… the ACA mandated that all non-grandfathered, fully insured and self-insured plans in individual, small group and large group markets are required to cover certain preventive health services without cost-sharing for enrollees. These preventive health services include lactation support, supplies and counseling from trained providers. Despite this mandate, many plans fail to cover and provide adequate access to lactation care.” Along with Duckworth and Merkley, the letter was cosigned by U.S. Senators … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:46:43Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-moran-boozman-klobuchar-launch-senate-sustainable-aviation-caucus Duckworth, Moran, Boozman, Klobuchar Launch Senate Sustainable Aviation Caucus 2024-09-25 2024 2024-09 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—Chair of the U.S. Senate Commerce Subcommittee on Aviation Safety, Operations and Innovation—U.S. Senator and Subcommittee Ranking Member Jerry Moran (R-KS), John Boozman (R-AR) and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) recently launched the Senate Sustainable Aviation Caucus to promote the longevity of the aviation industry and renewable fuels. “As we continue our work to reduce emissions and foster energy independence, one of the most important things we can do is make aviation more sustainable by increasing the use and supply of American-grown, American-made sustainable aviation fuel,” said Senator Duckworth. “To help us do just that, I’m proud to join Senators Moran, Klobuchar and Boozman in launching the Senate’s first-ever Sustainable Aviation Caucus. With this new caucus, I look forward to continuing our work to protect and grow American SAF production for use around the world, while also reducing our carbon footprint and supporting our domestic farmers and economy.” “As the aviation industry strives for lower emissions and cleaner energy sources, the development and utilization of sustainable aviation fuel will be a critical element,” said Senator Moran. “To help spur development, I am launching the Senate Sustainable Aviation Caucus. The caucus will work together to find ways to promote technologically innovative solutions to create a sustainable aviation industry and increase our nation’s competitiveness in the domestic production of sustainable aviation fuel.” “I’m pleased to join this initiative to promote education and policies that support sustainable industry practices,” said Senator Boozman. “I look forward to working with leaders of the caucus and stakeholders to advance measures that continue to advance aviation in an environmentally sound manner.” “Airlines across the country are committed to developing technologies to reduce carbon emissions from air travel,” said Senator Klobuchar. “The expanded use of sustainable aviation fuel will create jobs in r… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:46:43Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-statement-on-senate-passage-of-continuing-resolution Duckworth Statement on Senate Passage of Continuing Resolution 2024-09-25 2024 2024-09 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) issued the following statement after the Senate passed a continuing resolution to fund the federal government through December 20, 2024, keeping our government open and sparing working families the pain of a shutdown: “Today’s vote is good for working families, our economy and our entire nation because it prevents another damaging, needless MAGA shutdown that only hurts our servicemembers, Veterans and taxpayers. “The House GOP’s efforts to include partisan poison pills and bring our nation to the brink of a shutdown have failed, proving once again that bipartisanship is the only way to move forward. I look forward to continuing to work in a bipartisan manner ahead of the December funding deadline to pass the critical appropriations bills that our nation needs to keep our government fully funded and working for working families.” -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:46:43Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-durbin-announce-nearly-11-million-in-federal-funding-for-health-care-research-in-illinois Duckworth, Durbin Announce Nearly $11 Million in Federal Funding for Health Care Research in Illinois 2024-09-24 2024 2024-09 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today announced $10,906,668 in U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) medical research grants for Illinois institutions. The federal funding through the National Institutes of Health (NIH) will be put toward research programs across the state to support medical advancement in various fields, ranging from lung diseases to mental health research. “Investing in our world-renowned medical research facilities and institutions is a critical part in helping ensure high quality health care for all Illinoisans,” Duckworth said. “I will keep working with Senator Durbin to make sure our health organizations have the federal support they need to continue improving mental health research and advancing medical treatments for patients and families across Illinois.” “Federal investments in medical research pushes our society forward, bringing us new treatments for the serious conditions that impact so many American families,” said Durbin. “Illinois’ world-class research institutions will make good use of this federal funding to make devastating diseases more treatable.” Recipients of HHS grants include: Chestnut Health Systems, Inc (Drug Abuse and Addiction Research Programs): $759,748 Northwestern University at Chicago (Research for Mothers and Children): $718,900 Northwestern University at Chicago (Nursing Research): $827,872 University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (Research and Training in Complementary and Alternative Medicine): $671,176 Northwestern University at Chicago (Lung Diseases Research): $2,803,961 Northwestern University at Chicago (Human Genome Research): $745,930 Northwestern University (Aging Research): $388,067 Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science (Mental Health Research Grants): $535,696 Northwestern University at Chicago (Aging Research): $1,536,774 Northwestern University at Chicago (Cancer Treatment Research): $90,538 -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:46:43Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/following-their-letter-duckworth-durbin-applaud-biden-administration-for-approving-illinois-disaster-declaration-following-summer-tornadoes-extreme-weather Following their Letter, Duckworth, Durbin Applaud Biden Administration for Approving Illinois Disaster Declaration Following Summer Tornadoes, Extreme Weather 2024-09-23 2024 2024-09 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper The Senators led the Illinois delegation in calling for federal assistance for seven counties [SPRINGFIELD, IL] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) applauded the Biden Administration for approving Governor JB Pritzker’s request for a Major Disaster Declaration from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to the State of Illinois, to support seven Illinois counties in recovering from severe storms in which more than 40 tornadoes spun through Central and Northern Illinois and downstate Illinois flooded between July 13 and July 16, 2024. On August 29, Duckworth and Durbin led the Illinois delegation in sending a letter to President Biden in support of Governor Pritzker’s request for federal assistance. “As communities across Illinois continue recovering from this summer’s severe storms, it’s clear we must do everything possible to better prepare for and mitigate additional loss in the future,” said Duckworth. “I'm thankful President Biden is heeding our request for assistance and providing this federal support to impacted communities. I’ll continue working to bring home critical resources that help folks in every corner of the state prepare for and recover from future hazardous weather and natural disasters.” “Severe summer storms have become increasingly common, placing strain on communities left in its wake. This summer, Illinois saw tornadoes, flooding, and damaging winds that put Illinoisans in danger and impacted several counties across the state,” said Durbin. “Thankfully, President Biden has recognized the severity of the situation and responded to our request. Illinoisans will have access to the federal support they need to rebuild and prepare for the next disaster.” The federal assistance includes grants for individuals to recover from the storms, as well as take hazard mitigation measures to prevent or reduce long-term risk to life and property from future natural disasters. The counties eligible for the assistance are Cook, Fulton, Henry, St. C… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:46:43Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-durbin-join-murray-senate-democrats-in-introducing-resolution-to-recognize-patients-rights-to-emergency-health-care Duckworth, Durbin Join Murray, Senate Democrats in Introducing Resolution to Recognize Patients’ Rights to Emergency Health Care 2024-09-20 2024 2024-09 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper Abortion Bans Have Delayed Emergency Medical Care. In Georgia, Experts Say Were This Mother’s Death Was Preventable. [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) joined U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) and 38 of their Democratic colleagues in introducing a Senate resolution to reinforce the standard that every patient has the basic right to emergency health care, including abortion care, regardless of where they live. The introduction comes as new reporting from ProPublica makes plain that Republican abortion bans are preventing women from receiving lifesaving emergency health care and resulting in preventable deaths. “When we warned Donald Trump and Senate Republicans that women would die if they succeeded in overturning Roe, they called us fearmongers. Tragically, it’s now painfully obvious that we were right,” Duckworth said. “We cannot wait for more women to die a preventable death because of Republicans’ draconian abortion bans—we must protect reproductive rights and women’s access to emergency medical care nationwide, and Democrats are working tirelessly to do just that.” “When a woman arrives at the emergency room, she should not be worried about whether or not she will receive necessary medical treatment. Her family should not have to worry that their loved one may die because politics interfered with medical decision making. But because the right-wing supermajority on the Supreme Court overruled Roe v. Wade, as Donald Trump promised, that is exactly what is happening,” said Durbin. “I’m joining my colleagues in introducing this legislation to make clear that we will not give up the fight for women to receive the medical care they need, especially in emergency circumstances where access to care is a matter of life and death.” Since the overturn of Roe v. Wade over two years ago, nearly two dozen US states led by Republicans have passed, banned or severely restricted access to abortion. These strict laws have created confusion around the trea… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:46:43Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-durbin-quigley-announce-more-than-300-million-in-federal-funding-for-transportation-infrastructure-improvements-in-chicago Duckworth, Durbin Quigley Announce More Than $300 Million in Federal Funding for Transportation Infrastructure Improvements in Chicago 2024-09-20 2024 2024-09 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [CHICAGO, IL] - U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) and U.S. Representative Quigley (D-IL-05) today announced $305,467,517 in federal funding through the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Mega Program. With this federal funding, the Illinois Department of Transportation will receive $209,877,984 for the Chicago Region Environmental and Transportation Efficiency (CREATE) Program and $95,589,533 for the I-290/IL171 (1st Avenue) Interchange Project. These projects will aim to reduce traffic delays, increase rail junction safety, and improve mobility throughout Chicago. DOT’s Mega Grant Program provides federal funding for large projects of regional significance and is funded through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act that the lawmakers worked to pass. “Investing in our transportation infrastructure is about more than just improving our roads, bridges and rail lines, it’s about growing our economy and making getting to work, school and throughout our communities faster, safer and more efficient,” Duckworth said. “I’m proud to see this federal funding coming to our state today for two critically important projects Senator Durbin and I have been championing for years and with it improvements in these local communities, and an increase in good-paying jobs in our region and more.” “Today’s funding is a major investment in the future of our transportation infrastructure. Chicagoans will be better connected because of these two infrastructure projects, which will improve the safety and quality of our rail system and roadways,” said Durbin. “Senator Duckworth, members of the Illinois Congressional Delegation, and I have long supported these investments, and I’m glad to see these federal dollars go toward improving safety and alleviating congestion in a region that desperately needs it.” “This funding announcement is critical to helping CREATE in their mission to improve rail operations in Chicago for both passengers and freight. As the Ranking Member of the Tra… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:46:43Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-ricketts-bera-wittman-launch-bipartisan-bicameral-quad-caucus-ahead-of-quad-leaders-summit Duckworth, Ricketts, Bera, Wittman Launch Bipartisan, Bicameral Quad Caucus Ahead of Quad Leaders Summit 2024-09-20 2024 2024-09 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, DC] – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and Pete Ricketts (R-NE)—members of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee— joined U.S. Representatives Ami Bera, M.D. (D-CA-06) and Rob Wittman (R-VA-01) in launching the bipartisan Senate and House Quad Caucuses. This announcement comes ahead of this weekend’s Quad Leaders Summit in Wilmington, Delaware, where President Biden will welcome heads of state from Australia, India and Japan. The Quad is committed to supporting the region’s development, stability and prosperity to advance a free and open Indo-Pacific. The leaders’ ambitious efforts include major initiatives on infrastructure, maritime security, public-private partnership, climate, health, critical and emerging technologies and space. “Over the years, the Quad has represented the United States’ steadfast commitment to the current and future prosperity, strength and stability of the Indo-Pacific region—and proof of our ability to come together with allies and partners to uphold our shared principles,” said Senator Duckworth. “In a strong display of bipartisan support for the region, I’m proud to help launch the Senate’s first-ever Quad Caucus alongside co-chair Senator Ricketts ahead of President Biden’s leaders’ summit this weekend. Together, we’re sending a strong message to our allies and partners—and our competitors—that the United States is here for the long haul.” “Partnerships like the Quad are our greatest strength in protecting a prosperous, free and open Indo-Pacific against coercion and malign aggression The launch of the bipartisan Senate Quad Caucus should send a clear signal about the growing importance of the United States, Australia, Japan, and India working closely together in the region. We are committed to finding tangible ways to bolster collaboration with our Quad partners,” said Senator Ricketts. “As the Indo-Pacific becomes increasingly important to global security and economic prosperity, it is essential that the United States continues to strengthen relationsh… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:46:43Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-booker-introduce-legislation-to-protect-kangaroos-by-ending-the-sale-of-commercial-products-made-with-kangaroo-skin-in-the-us Duckworth, Booker Introduce Legislation to Protect Kangaroos by Ending the Sale of Commercial Products Made with Kangaroo Skin in the U.S. 2024-09-19 2024 2024-09 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Today, U.S. Senators Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and Cory Booker (D-NJ) introduced legislation to protect the estimated two million wild kangaroos who are needlessly killed every year for the use of their leather in commercial products. The killing of kangaroos for their leather, also known as “k-leather,” is currently the largest commercial slaughter of mammals worldwide driven by demand for their skin in certain models of soccer cleats. To help reverse this inhumane trend and safeguard the kangaroo species from commercial exploitation, the Senators’ Kangaroo Protection Act would ban the sale and manufacturing of products made from kangaroo skin, as well as the sale of kangaroo skin itself. Additionally, this legislation would empower the Secretary of Commerce, in consultation with other agencies, to issue civil and criminal penalties of fines up to $10,000 and other regulations. “The mass killing of millions of kangaroos to make commercial products is needless and inhumane—and we must do better,” said Senator Duckworth. “I’m proud to introduce this bill with Senator Booker that would help prevent the deadly exploitation of kangaroos and promote the use of more humane alternatives to k-leather.” “We must take action to conserve the kangaroo species and end their inhumane exploitation,” said Senator Booker. “This legislation will ensure that no one in the United States can distribute kangaroo products for commercial benefits.” The commercial slaughter of kangaroos isn’t just widespread—it’s unnecessarily cruel. It uses similar killing methods and is ten times larger than the infamously brutal Canadian seal hunt, which prompted the United States to ban the import of seal pelts in 1972. Despite having similar import bans for other animals, the U.S. is currently the second largest commercial market for k-leather products in the world. The Senators’ proposed legislation would help change that. Copy of the bill text is available on Senator Duckworth’s website. A similar version of the bill was int… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:46:43Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-durbin-join-cortez-masto-in-bipartisan-resolution-recognizing-hispanic-heritage-month-resolution Duckworth, Durbin Join Cortez Masto in Bipartisan Resolution Recognizing Hispanic Heritage Month Resolution 2024-09-19 2024 2024-09 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, DC] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) joined U.S. Senators Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) and John Cornyn (R-TX) in introducing a bipartisan resolution to formally recognize Hispanic Heritage Month—which is celebrated from September 15 through October 15. The resolution successfully passed the Senate this week. “Hispanic Heritage Month is a chance for us to come together to celebrate the leaders, change-makers and trailblazers of the Latino community throughout Illinois and our nation,” Duckworth said. “Their diversity makes us stronger—always.” “I’m proud to join my Senate colleagues in celebrating the heritage and cultural traditions of the Hispanic and Latino community in Illinois and across the United States by cosponsoring and passing a resolution in honor of Hispanic Heritage Month. Our state, and country, are made better by the contributions of these communities,” said Durbin. The resolution recognizes the immense contributions of Latinos and Latinas to the economy, culture and identity of the United States. Hispanic Americans are the largest racial or ethnic minority group in the U.S., representing more than 65 million people—19.5 percent of the U.S. population—plus another 3.2 million in Puerto Rico. Thirteen states, including Illinois, have one million or more Latino and Latina residents. Along with Duckworth, Durbin, Cortez Masto and Cornyn, this resolution was co-sponsored by, Bill Cassidy (R-LA), Tammy Baldwin (D-WI), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Michael Bennet (D-CO), Cory Booker (D-NJ), Laphonza Butler (D-CA), Ben Cardin (D-MD), Susan Collins (R-ME), Bill Hagerty (R-TN), John Fetterman (D-PA), Tim Kaine (D-VA), Angus King (I-ME), Mark Kelly (D-AZ), Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Martin Heinrich (D-NM), John Hickenlooper (D-CO), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Ben Ray Lujan (D-NM), Ed Markey (D-MA), Jon Ossoff (D-GA), Alex Padilla (D-CA), Jack Reed (D-RI), Jacky Rosen (D-NV), Bernie Sanders (I-VT), Brian Schatz (D-HI), Kyrsten Sinema (I-AZ), Jeanne Shah… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:46:43Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-lummis-introduce-bipartisan-legislation-to-help-support-entrepreneurs-with-disabilities Duckworth, Lummis Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Help Support Entrepreneurs with Disabilities 2024-09-19 2024 2024-09 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Yesterday, U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—a member of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship—and U.S. Senator Cynthia Lummis (R-WY) introduced bipartisan legislation to improve reporting on entrepreneurs with disabilities so we can better understand what they need and help more of them start and grow successful small businesses. The bipartisan Entrepreneurs with Disabilities Reporting Act would direct the Small Business Administration (SBA) to file a report to Congress on the challenges and needs that entrepreneurs with disabilities face when starting or running a small business. Specifically, the report would include what resources the SBA currently offers entrepreneurs with disabilities, the challenges in meeting the needs of this community as well as any legislative recommendations to improve how SBA serves entrepreneurs with disabilities. “We should be doing everything we can to provide Americans with disabilities with the support they need to start and grow small businesses and pursue careers in entrepreneurship,” said Senator Duckworth. “By improving our understanding of what entrepreneurs with disabilities need through better reporting, we can make well-informed decisions and enable more of them to make their dreams of starting a business a reality—all while boosting our economy along the way. This bipartisan bill already passed the House, and I’m proud to lead this legislation in the Senate with Senator Lummis as we push to get it signed into law.” “Entrepreneurship is a vital part of the American dream, but a lack of resources often prevents many Americans with disabilities from owning their own business,” said Senator Lummis. “Our bipartisan solution will contribute to empowering Americans with disabilities to pursue their passions and realize their dreams of business ownership.” Since the COVID-19 pandemic, the number of people with a disability in our country grew while the number of entrepreneurs with disabilities fell. The causes of this decline are … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:46:43Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-excoriates-senate-gop-after-they-again-block-her-bill-to-protect-ivf-and-lower-costs-for-families-despite-republicans-claims-of-ivf-support Duckworth Excoriates Senate GOP After They Again Block Her Bill to Protect IVF and Lower Costs for Families, Despite Republicans’ Claims of IVF Support 2024-09-17 2024 2024-09 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper This is the second time Senate Republicans blocked Duckworth’s Right to IVF Act and the fourth time they blocked Duckworth-led legislation to protect IVF access nationwide [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) called out Senate Republicans’ hypocrisy on the Senate floor after they once again blocked her Right to IVF Act—which they first blocked in June—while continuing to falsely claim that they support IVF. The Senate GOP’s disheartening decision to block the pro-freedom, pro-family legislation a second time comes after Donald Trump promised that the federal government would cover IVF if he is re-elected and proves that Republicans have no interest in actually doing something that would make it easier for Americans struggling with infertility to access IVF. The Right to IVF Act would require health insurers to cover IVF and would establish a nationwide right for hopeful parents to access IVF and other assisted reproductive technology (ART). A video of Senator Duckworth’s remarks is available on YouTube. Key quotes: After 10 years of struggling with infertility after being wounded in combat, I was only able to have my two girls through the medical marvel that is IVF. The only reason there are PB&Js for me to make… the only reason there are only tiny sneakers for me to Velcro… is because after I came home from war, I had the freedom to seek the health care I needed to make my dream of going from “Tammy” to “mommy” a reality. I doubt that Donald Trump even knows what the acronym “IVF” stands for. Half the time I wonder if he can even spell “IVF.” But despite the incoherent, delusional, frankly embarrassing ramblings that came out of his mouth last week, the reality is that he is the reason IVF is at risk in the first place. The Dobbs decision is what led us to today’s nightmare, taking the power to decide how and when to start families from us women and handing it to politicians in state houses across the country. I went to war to defend this nation’s rights and freedoms. I did it bec… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:46:43Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-schumer-murray-booker-and-senate-democrats-urge-senate-republicans-to-pass-duckworths-right-to-ivf-act-make-it-easier-to-access-ivf-nationwide Duckworth, Schumer, Murray, Booker & Senate Democrats Urge Senate Republicans to Pass Duckworth’s Right to IVF Act, Make It Easier to Access IVF Nationwide 2024-09-17 2024 2024-09 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper Duckworth, Schumer, Murray, Booker & Senate Democrats Urge Senate Republicans to Pass Duckworth’s Right to IVF Act, Make It Easier to Access IVF Nationwide [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) joined U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA), Cory Booker (D-NJ) and other Senate Democrats on the Senate Steps to urge Senate Republicans to pass Senator Duckworth’s Right to IVF Act when it comes to the floor for a vote today. This renewed effort comes after Donald Trump promised that the federal government would cover IVF if he is re-elected and represents a second chance for Senate Republicans to pass this pro-freedom, pro-family legislation and actually do something that would make it easier for Americans struggling with infertility to access IVF. In June, Senate Republicans blocked the Right to IVF Act, which would require health insurers to cover IVF—as well as establish a nationwide right for hopeful parents to access IVF and other assisted reproductive technology (ART). A video of Senator Duckworth’s remarks is available on YouTube and the full press conference can be found on the Senator’s Twitter/X page. Photos of the press conference are available on Senator Duckworth’s website. “If Donald Trump—the self-proclaimed ‘leader of fertilization’ despite being the reason IVF is at risk in the first place—really wants IVF to be covered, now is the time for him to prove it,” said Senator Duckworth. “Now is the time for him to call on Senate Republicans to pass my Right to IVF Act today so we can protect IVF nationwide while making it easier for Veterans and middle class families to access the fertility treatment they need. The American people know by now we have to watch what Trump and Republicans do, not what they say. It’s past time for Senate Republicans to put their votes where their mouths are.” “From the moment the MAGA Supreme Court eliminated Roe, the hard right made it clear that they would stop at nothing to limit choice and take aw… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:46:43Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-schumer-murray-booker-slam-republican-hypocrisy-after-senate-gop-again-blocks-their-bill-to-protect-ivf-and-lower-costs-for-families-despite-republicans-claims-of-ivf-support Duckworth, Schumer, Murray, Booker Slam Republican Hypocrisy After Senate GOP Again Blocks Their Bill to Protect IVF and Lower Costs for Families, Despite Republicans’ Claims of IVF Support 2024-09-17 2024 2024-09 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper This is the second time Senate Republicans, who claim to be “pro-IVF,” blocked the Right to IVF Act [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – Today, U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) and U.S. Senators Patty Murray (D-WA) and Cory Booker (D-NJ) called out Senate Republicans’ hypocrisy after nearly every single Republican blocked the Senate Democrats’ Right to IVF Act—now the second time they’ve done so after first blocking the bill in June—despite them publicly claiming to support IVF for the millions of Americans who rely on it to build their families. This was Senate Republicans’ second chance to pass this pro-family, pro-freedom legislative package that would both establish a right to IVF and other assisted reproductive technology (ART), expand access for hopeful parents, Veterans and federal employees, as well as lower the costs of IVF for middle class families across the country. In June, Duckworth slammed Senate Republicans for blocking her previous legislation to protect IVF access after the Alabama Supreme Court ruling shut down state clinics and painted IVF parents and their doctors as criminals. After doing the same thing today, the Senate GOP once again proved that their public “support for IVF” is nothing but a ruse to mislead voters—which Senator Duckworth highlighted in her floor remarks today. “Today’s vote was Senate Republicans’ chance to put their vote where their mouths are—but instead, their true policy beliefs, hypocrisy and misogyny showed through,” said Senator Duckworth. “By blocking my Right to IVF Act for the second time in just a few months, Republicans proved that when the rubber meets the road they will do anything to get out of actually passing legislation that would protect women’s right to access reproductive care. On behalf of every woman who has faced the heart-shattering struggle of infertility, all I can say to my Republican colleagues is: Shame on you.” “Republicans cannot claim to care about supporting families while voting against protections… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:46:43Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-reacts-to-preventable-death-in-georgia-that-resulted-from-republicans-extreme-abortion-bans Duckworth Reacts to Preventable Death in Georgia that Resulted from Republicans’ Extreme Abortion Bans 2024-09-16 2024 2024-09 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – In the wake of a ProPublica report detailing the needless, preventable death of a young woman who was unable to receive the lifesaving treatment she needed in Georgia as a result of the state’s then-two-week-old abortion ban, U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) issued the following statement: “When we warned Donald Trump and Senate Republicans that women would die if they succeeded in overturning Roe, they called us fearmongers. Tragically, it’s now painfully obvious that we were right. We cannot wait for more women to die a preventable death because of Republicans’ draconian abortion bans—we must protect reproductive rights nationwide, and Democrats are working tirelessly to do just that.” -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:46:43Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-clark-reintroduce-bill-to-expand-child-care-on-college-campuses-help-parenting-students-graduate Duckworth, Clark Reintroduce Bill to Expand Child Care on College Campuses, Help Parenting Students Graduate 2024-09-12 2024 2024-09 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and U.S. House Democratic Whip Katherine Clark (D-MA-05) today reintroduced a bill to help increase access to on-campus child care for the more than 4 million parenting students currently enrolled in postsecondary education programs. Despite the growing number of parenting students in postsecondary education, access to affordable on-campus child care services has dwindled since 2004. The Child Care Access Means Parents in Schools (CCAMPIS) Reauthorization Act would help reverse this trend by reauthorizing and fully funding the only federal program that exclusively supports on-campus child care services and ensure the U.S. Department of Education is meeting the needs of parenting students. Duckworth originally introduced this legislation when she was in the U.S. House of Representatives. “As college costs continue to skyrocket, we can't simply stay on the sidelines as it gets even harder for parenting students to afford higher education,” said Senator Duckworth. “The more than 4 million college students who are also raising children already have enough to worry about—child care should not be one of them. This legislation would help increase access to child care services so parenting students can stay focused on getting an education that will help them provide a better, stronger future for their families.” “High child care costs are holding parents back — making it impossible for many to remain in the workforce and get the education they need to get ahead. But it doesn’t have to be this way,” said House Democratic Whip Katherine Clark. “With this critical legislation, we can ensure student parents have the support they need and the fair shot they deserve.” Parenting students already graduate with much higher levels of debt compared to non-parenting students because financial aid offerings do not cover child care. Since 2004, the number of parents enrolled in college has grown by 30 percent while on-campus childcare facilities have closed and services have … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:46:43Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-durbin-announce-more-than-37-million-for-illinois-airport-improvements Duckworth, Durbin Announce More Than $37 Million for Illinois Airport Improvements 2024-09-12 2024 2024-09 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today announced a total of $37,031,074 in federal funding for infrastructure improvements at airports across Illinois. This funding from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Aviation Administration will go toward reinforcing the structural integrity of taxiways, expanding existing terminal buildings to accommodate more passengers and aircraft operations and installing various modernization measures, including mechanisms to alleviate noise pollution for surrounding residences, increase clean energy opportunities, improve drainage infrastructure and mitigate wildlife attractants. “Illinois’s airports are critical economic engines for our state and the source of jobs for so many working families,” Duckworth said. “I’m proud to join Senator Durbin in announcing this investment of federal funding to help grow and modernize our airports across the state. I will continue to work alongside Senator Durbin to make traveling safer and more reliable for all passengers while ensuring that our communities are receiving the much-needed federal resources they deserve.” “By improving and modernizing airport infrastructure, we are laying the foundation for increased connectivity and reliability,” said Durbin. “Today’s announced federal funding for upgrading our airports across Illinois will enhance the travel experience for passengers and promote economic growth. I will continue working with Senator Duckworth to ensure Illinois airports have the necessary federal resources to keep passengers safe and connected.” Recipients of funding through the Federal Aviation Administration’s Airport Improvement Grant Program include: Chicago Executive Airport (Wheeling): $1,800,000 Chicago Midway International Airport (Chicago): $555,019 Chicago O'Hare International Airport (Chicago): $9,472,514 Chicago Rockford International Airport (Rockford): $7,946,166 Quad Cities International Airport (Moline): $2,765,727 Rantoul N… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:46:43Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-durbin-join-klobuchar-colleagues-to-urge-doj-ftc-to-investigate-generative-ai-products-for-potential-antitrust-violations Duckworth, Durbin Join Klobuchar, Colleagues to Urge DOJ, FTC to investigate Generative AI Products for Potential Antitrust Violations 2024-09-11 2024 2024-09 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL)—Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee—joined U.S. Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Mazie Hirono (D-HI), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) and Tina Smith (D-MN) in sending a letter to Assistant Attorney General Jonathan Kanter and Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Chair Lina Khan to highlight the risks that new generative artificial intelligence (AI) features pose to competition and innovation in digital content, including journalism and to urge both agencies to investigate whether the design of these features violates the antitrust laws. “Recently, multiple dominant online platforms have introduced new generative AI features that answer user queries by summarizing, or, in some cases, merely regurgitating online content from other sources or platforms. The introduction of these new generative AI features further threatens the ability of journalists and other content creators to earn compensation for their vital work. While a traditional search result or news feed links may lead users to the publisher’s website, an AI-generated summary keeps the users on the original search platform, where that platform alone can profit from the user’s attention through advertising and data collection,” wrote the lawmakers. “Moreover, some generative AI features misappropriate third-party content and pass it off as novel content generated by the platform’s AI.” “For the reasons outlined above, we urge the Department of Justice Antitrust Division and the Federal Trade Commission to investigate whether the design of some generative AI features, introduced by already dominant platforms, are a form of exclusionary conduct or an unfair method of competition in violation of the antitrust laws,” concluded the lawmakers. The full text of the letter is available here and below: September 10, 2024 Dear Assistant Attorney General Kanter and Chair Khan: We write to highlight the risks that new… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:46:43Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-reintroduces-legislation-to-strengthen-us-asean-relations-bolster-regional-security Duckworth Reintroduces Legislation to Strengthen U.S.-ASEAN Relations, Bolster Regional Security 2024-09-10 2024 2024-09 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [WASHINGTON, D.C.] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)—a member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee—today reintroduced legislation to strengthen relations between the United States and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). The Senator’s Providing Appropriate Recognition and Treatment Needed to Enhance Relations (PARTNER) with ASEAN Act would authorize ASEAN’s formal designation as an international organization with diplomatic privileges and immunities, affording ASEAN secretariat personnel the same treatment in the United States as diplomats associated with other multilateral missions, paving the way for the creation of a permanent ASEAN U.S. mission. “The United States’ longstanding partnership with ASEAN has resulted in diplomatic, economic, cultural and other benefits for our country and all those involved,” said Senator Duckworth. “This legislation would reaffirm and strengthen our relationship and provide ASEAN personnel with the diplomatic immunities they deserve as we work together to bolster regional security in the Indo-Pacific.” Copy of the bill text is available on Senator Duckworth’s website. This legislation is an identical companion bill to H.R. 406, legislation being led by U.S. Representatives Joaquin Castro (D-TX-20) and Young Kim (R-CA-40). As a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Duckworth has been a leader in strengthening relationships with Southeast Asian countries. In July, Duckworth led an official Senate visit to Laos and Vietnam to reinforce America’s commitment to our partners in ASEAN and strengthen U.S.-ASEAN economic ties. In May, Duckworth led a bipartisan delegation to Singapore to participate in this year’s International Institute for Strategic Studies’ Shangri-La Dialogue, where she and other Senators reaffirmed our nation’s strong bipartisan commitment to our partners and allies in the Indo-Pacific. Last year, Duckworth met with ASEAN leaders on an official Senate visit to Indonesia to reinforce U.S. partnership throughout the region … 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:46:43Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-durbin-announce-over-32-million-in-federal-funding-for-pedestrian-and-bicyclist-safety Duckworth, Durbin Announce Over $32 Million in Federal Funding for Pedestrian and Bicyclist Safety 2024-09-06 2024 2024-09 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [CHICAGO, IL] - U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) and U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL) today announced $32,165,705 in federal funding through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Safe Street and Roads for All grant program. This funding will go towards pedestrian, bike and transit infrastructure and safety measures including bike lanes, speed reduction tactics and intersection improvements. The DOT’s Safe Street and Roads for All program, established through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, funds regional, local and Tribal initiatives through grants to prevent roadway deaths and serious injuries. “I’m proud this federal funding will help repair and improve our infrastructure so that all pedestrians and cyclists across Illinois can travel safely,” Duckworth said. “This investment will go a long way in updating our roads, bike lanes and sidewalks— making them safer but also more accessible.” “It’s time to bring an end to preventable tragedies on our roadways, bike lanes, and walkways,” said Durbin. “These investments will bolster pedestrian and cyclists' safety, reduce traffic incidents, and improve transit infrastructure.” Recipients of funding through DOT’s Safe Street and Roads for All include: North Avenue Corridor Improvements Project (Chicago, IL): $20,010,000 Solving Problems with Projects: Building Safer Roads for the Residents of Danville and Vermilion County (Danville, IL): $9,999,900 City of Waukegan: Demonstration Activities for Safer Streets (Waukegan, IL): $254,365 The City of Harvey's Comprehensive Safety Action Plan (Harvey, IL): $200,000 U.S. 52 Route Safety Planning Study (Manhattan, IL): $100,000 Vison Zero Oak Park: Applying the Safe System Approach (Oak Park, IL): $1,126,880 Advancing Roadway Safety: A Comprehensive Plan for Our Community (Chatham, IL): $120,000 Winnebago County Highway Department – Safe Roadway & Work Zone Initiatives (Winnebago County, IL): $234,560 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:46:43Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-touts-federal-funding-she-secured-for-current-chicagos-inclusive-water-education-and-workforce-training-program Duckworth Touts Federal Funding She Secured for Current Chicago’s Inclusive Water Education and Workforce Training Program 2024-09-06 2024 2024-09 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [CHICAGO, IL] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today met with leadership from Current, highlighting the $225,000 she secured through a Fiscal Year 2023 Congressionally Directed Spending Request for the development of a pilot, entry-level job training program centered on wastewater-based epidemiology. Duckworth also met with plumbers and apprentices to learn more about their in-field experience. A photo from today’s meeting is available on the Senator’s website. “Our state and our nation are stronger when we invest in our communities and families—and that’s one of the things Congressionally Directed Spending allows us to do,” said Duckworth. “I’m so proud I was able to secure this critical support for Current that will not just help support workforce development but help ensure our water is safe. I’m dedicated to ensuring Illinois continues to build upon our career training efforts. Investing in workforce development—and in working families—is key to uplifting our state and building a better future.” The workforce training program was built on a collaborative effort between Current, Discovery Partners Institute and the Chicago Department of Public Health to track pathogens like SARS-CoV-2 through community wastewater sampling. The Duckworth-secured federal funding will help build a new training program and accelerate the development of inclusive workforce pathways in water careers, creating opportunities for hands-on experience with wastewater sampling, specimen management, field work and community engagement for individuals from historically disinvested communities and those who are underrepresented in water-related industries in Illinois. Duckworth and Current leaders also discussed NSF Engines: Great Lakes Water Innovation Engine Project, coordinated by Current, whose mission is to develop new ways to extract valuable minerals and toxic forever chemicals from our wastewater. This project is one of U.S. National Science Foundation's inaugural Regional Innovation Engines (NSF Engines), a program authorize… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:46:43Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/in-chicago-duckworth-highlights-illinoiss-strength-as-a-manufacturing-leader In Chicago, Duckworth Highlights Illinois’s Strength as a Manufacturing Leader 2024-09-06 2024 2024-09 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [CHICAGO, IL] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today toured NuMat Technologies, Inc.’s manufacturing site in Chicago’s West Humboldt Park neighborhood, meeting with leaders to learn more about the Metal Organic Frameworks (MOF) manufactured by NuMat and how this technology can benefit our servicemembers and first responders. Today’s tour follows the Senator’s meeting yesterday with Jungham Kim, Consul General of the Republic of Korea in Chicago, where they discussed the importance of South Korea’s relationship with Illinois and how well-positioned Illinois is for future investments that would bring more jobs and economic growth to our state. “Illinois is a hub of agriculture, manufacturing, transportation and technology, making our state ideally positioned for growth in all of these sectors,” Duckworth said. “As a member of both the Senate Armed Services Committee and the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, I’m committed to both growing our domestic defense manufacturing sector and promoting Illinois on a global level. Illinois is ready to help bring our world into the future—and I’m going to do everything in my power to make sure the whole world knows it.” Duckworth is a proven leader on strengthening our relations with international partners while successfully securing significant international investments in Illinois. This year alone Duckworth has led official Senate visits to Vietnam, Laos, Taiwan, Sweden and the Netherlands to meet with government, trade and economic leaders and corporate and business officials to highlight how Illinois is uniquely positioned for greater investment and increased exports with international partners. Duckworth, a combat Veteran who served in the Reserve Forces for 23 years, is also a member of the U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee (SASC). As a member of SASC, Duckworth has made restoring American competitiveness one of her core goals, securing a number of provisions in this year’s committee-passed National Defense Authorization Act. -30- 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:46:43Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-touts-1-million-in-federal-funding-she-secured-for-new-affordable-housing-projects-in-chicago Duckworth Touts $1 Million in Federal Funding She Secured for New Affordable Housing Projects in Chicago 2024-09-05 2024 2024-09 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [CHICAGO, IL] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today visited Breakthrough Urban Ministries to highlight and discuss the $1 million federal investment she secured through a Fiscal Year 2023 Congressionally Directed Spending Request to help build 14 new units of affordable housing on Chicago’s West Side. Groundbreaking on the new units will take place later this month, helping increase housing in the East Garfield Park neighborhood. Duckworth today met with Breakthrough Urban Ministries Executive Director Yolanda Fields and their leadership team for the celebration. Photos from today’s event can be found on the Senator’s website. “Our state and our nation are stronger when we invest in our communities and families—and that’s one of the things Congressionally Directed Spending allows us to do,” Duckworth said. ““I’m proud I’ve been able to secure critical support for projects all across our state, including to help support Breakthrough Urban Ministry’s efforts in East Garfield Park. Expanding affordable housing options and improving housing conditions is critically important, and I’m proud to see this federal funding support new modern, affordable housing in communities that have been overlooked for far too long.” Breakthrough Urban Ministries has been serving the neighborhood of East Garfield Park for nearly 30 years, partnering with those affected by poverty to build connections, develop skills and open doors of opportunity. They provide transitional and permanent supportive housing for individuals and families experiencing homelessness. In addition to housing services, Breakthrough also provides a variety of helpful community-based resources and programs covering topics such as education and youth development, economic opportunities, health and wellness, violence prevention and spiritual formation. In Fiscal Year 2024, Duckworth and U.S. Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) successfully secured more than $264 million through the CDS process for Illinois, $182 million in FY23 and another $211 million for Illinois in… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:46:43Z
https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases/duckworth-visits-the-chicago-abortion-fund-underscores-importance-of-restoring-reproductive-freedom-for-all Duckworth Visits The Chicago Abortion Fund, Underscores Importance of Restoring Reproductive Freedom for All 2024-09-05 2024 2024-09 Democrat Senate IL Tammy Duckworth D000622 www.duckworth.senate.gov duckworth https://www.duckworth.senate.gov/news/press-releases scraper [CHICAGO, IL] – U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL) today visited the Chicago Abortion Fund (CAF) office to meet with the Fund’s leadership team, tour their new facility and discuss how their day-to-day operations have changed in a post-Dobbs America. Duckworth met with the Fund’s Deputy Director Qudsiyyah Shariyf and staff to thank them for their service and share her support for ensuring women everywhere can access safe and necessary health care. Photos from today’s visit can be found on the Senator’s website. “The work of Chicago Abortion Fund has been a lifeline to Illinoisans for years—but as neighboring red states continue to ban abortion as a result of the Supreme Court’s disastrous Dobbs decision the importance of this new office, and the work they do, will only continue to grow,” Duckworth said. “I’m thankful to the incredible staff and volunteers at the Chicago Abortion Fund who help ensure Illinois remains a safe haven for all women seeking the reproductive care they need. And I won’t stop working to enshrine Roe v. Wade protections into law to ensure reproductive freedoms are protected for all women in every state.” The Chicago Abortion Fund is a statewide fund dedicated to removing barriers to abortion care in Illinois, the Midwest and beyond. CAF pays for procedure funding, covers travel and related needs, offers emotional support and provides logistical expertise so that women can access the abortion care they need and deserve. Duckworth recently joined U.S. Senator Tammy Baldwin (D-WI) in releasing a study to show the harsh reality patients are facing in Wisconsin—a direct neighboring state of Illinois—when seeking access to abortion care. Prior to the Dobbs decision, only 16%, or one in six, of Wisconsin abortion patients received out-of-state care. In 2023, that number was up to 88%, meaning that nine out of ten patients had to seek out-of-state care. Specifically, a total of 5,230 Wisconsin patients received reproductive care in Illinois in 2023. Since the Dobbs decision, CAF has helped over… 1 2026-03-30T01:40:41Z 2026-04-06T18:46:43Z

Next page

Advanced export

JSON shape: default, array, newline-delimited, object

CSV options:

CREATE TABLE [releases] (
   [url] TEXT PRIMARY KEY,
   [title] TEXT,
   [date] TEXT,
   [year] TEXT,
   [month] TEXT,
   [party] TEXT,
   [chamber] TEXT,
   [state] TEXT,
   [member_name] TEXT,
   [bioguide_id] TEXT,
   [domain] TEXT,
   [scraper] TEXT,
   [source] TEXT,
   [date_source] TEXT,
   [text] TEXT,
   [has_text] INTEGER,
   [collected_at] TEXT,
   [updated_at] TEXT
);
CREATE INDEX [idx_releases_date]
    ON [releases] ([date]);
CREATE INDEX [idx_releases_year]
    ON [releases] ([year]);
CREATE INDEX [idx_releases_party]
    ON [releases] ([party]);
CREATE INDEX [idx_releases_chamber]
    ON [releases] ([chamber]);
CREATE INDEX [idx_releases_state]
    ON [releases] ([state]);
CREATE INDEX [idx_releases_bioguide_id]
    ON [releases] ([bioguide_id]);
CREATE INDEX [idx_releases_has_text]
    ON [releases] ([has_text]);
Powered by Datasette · Queries took 421.211ms · Data license: MIT · Data source: dwillis/congress-press